Discussions similar to: France volcans
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Retiring in Corsica
Hello, I’ve visited Corsica several times with our kids, and we loved the warm welcome and friendliness of the locals as we explored many villages. We’re originally from the JURA region. Now that we’re retired, we’d like to live somewhere between Bastia and Porto-Vecchio. Which village or town would you recommend for a peaceful and welcoming lifestyle?
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Timing Paris transport to Roissy for an 8:30 AM flight
Hi, I saw that the first tram from Pont du Garigliano leaves at 5:15 AM, and by taking the RER B at Cité Universitaire afterward, I’d arrive at Roissy at 6:30 AM—2 hours before my international flight. Is this doable, or not? If anyone’s done this before, I’d love to hear about it. Thanks
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Traveling in France off-season: what to prioritize?
Hi everyone,

I’m thinking about planning several short trips in France outside peak tourist seasons, especially in spring and autumn.

The idea would be to prioritize:

- fewer crowds at tourist sites - more affordable accommodation prices - a more local atmosphere

However, I also have some concerns about:

- attractions or restaurants sometimes being closed - more unpredictable weather depending on the region - less frequent transportation in certain areas

For those of you who’ve traveled in France off-season before, what do you think were the main pros and cons? Are there any regions or specific times that are particularly worth prioritizing?

Thanks in advance for your experiences! 😊
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Getting to Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport from Austerlitz Station
Hi there,

I’m traveling alone from my remote Pyrenees home to Roissy Airport, arriving at Austerlitz Station. I’m a bit nervous about getting to the airport—could you suggest a route?

While you’re at it, maybe you could recommend a budget hotel near the airport?

Thanks so much for your help!

Best to you all
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Questions about a trip to Paris around mid-February 2026
Hi everyone,

I’m looking into a trip to Paris around mid-February. I’d love to know more about the temperature (weather) in Paris, museum access (closures or anything else), how easy it is to get around on foot (slippery due to ice?), public transport, etc.

Also, are there any events or activities I absolutely shouldn’t miss? I could adjust my dates based on what you know.

On another note, I’d love to catch a hockey game. Are there any around Paris? I’m happy to watch a few games no matter the level 🏒🥅

FYI, I’m not afraid of the cold since I’m from Quebec 😁😆😆🧑‍🌾

Thanks in advance for your help! 👍😊❤️❤️
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Kaysersberg or Colmar for an afternoon visit?
We’ll be back from a river cruise with a stop in Strasbourg for just the afternoon and evening. We’d like to spend the afternoon in either Colmar or Kaysersberg and then return to Strasbourg for dinner and a stroll afterward. I’d love your advice on which spot—Colmar or Kaysersberg—you’d recommend. I’ve noticed there’s a bus line 145 that runs from Colmar to Kaysersberg, taking about 40 minutes and costing around 5 €.

Is there a train or another way to get directly from Strasbourg that’s quick and affordable? I think a taxi would be pretty expensive. The issue is we don’t have much time—our flight is the next morning. We’ve already visited Strasbourg, Colmar, Eguisheim, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr about 10 years ago and loved them all. Our river cruise covers the Main, Rhine, and Danube.

We’re really looking forward to seeing places in Germany, like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, among others.

Thanks, and looking forward to your tips!
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Which family-friendly town to choose in Charente Maritime for the summer?
Hi there, we’re planning a trip this summer to Charente Maritime (Gironde estuary) with our 2-year-old daughter. We’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly seaside town—not too big and not too overrun with tourists, if possible. Some nice beaches where we can safely introduce our little one to the joys of swimming. Restaurants and everything we need nearby so we can forget about the car for a bit… We were thinking of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer or Meschers-sur-Gironde, but we’re not sure if they’re the right fit. We’ve also heard about Fouras-les-Bains and Châtelaillon-Plage a bit further up? Thanks in advance for your feedback! Best, Mouoi
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What to see and do in Lille in 2 days?
Hi everyone, I’m spending two days in Lille. Any places you’d recommend? I was thinking of visiting Vieux Lille, which I’ve been told about. Would you have any shops, museums, or typical restaurants to suggest for a great time?

Thanks! Have a nice day
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SIM Cards for 3 Months in France
Hi there!

After a few years abroad, I’m spending 3 months vacationing in Europe, starting in Paris. I’d like to buy a SIM card mainly for sending texts and a bit of calling—what do you recommend? Orange or Bouygues Telecom?

Thanks!
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Good value-for-money hotel in Paris
Hello, We’d like to stay in PARIS for 4 or 5 days next April or May. (Two adults.)

To avoid renting through AIRBNB, I was thinking of a small hotel near the metro so we can get around easily (see Notre Dame after its restoration, the Musée d'Orsay, the Institut du Monde Arabe if there’s an interesting exhibit, the Maison de la Radio, etc.).

The exact location doesn’t matter—what I’m looking for is a reasonably priced place. (If I say 90 to 100 € per day including breakfast and one meal, does that sound about right?)

Thanks for your insights! (By the way, why is Paris called the CITY OF LIGHTS?)
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Where to stay for summer vacation in the Jura?
Hello, I’m starting to plan my summer vacation. I’ve decided on the Jura. I’m looking for a pleasant place to stay for three weeks. My criteria are a pretty little village, easy hiking opportunities with beautiful viewpoints (around Lake Vouglans or elsewhere), and nice swimming spots. For info, I’ll be traveling with my wife (no kids). Thanks for your help—I’m really curious and interested in any tips or advice you can share. Have a great day, Thierry
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Activities in Angers
Hi everyone,

I’m spending two days in Angers with my wife. I’ve heard great things about this city, especially how pleasant it is to live there. Could you share some activity ideas to help me explore the city (restaurants, museums, art galleries, places to walk, pubs, etc.)? Just so you know, I’ll be arriving by train.

Thanks for your suggestions! Have a great day, Thierry
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Shuttle from Roissy CDG to Lille train station
Hi Does anyone know a reliable and affordable shuttle service from Roissy airport to Lille train station? I know there are TGVs, but we’d like to avoid a long wait at Roissy station. Thanks in advance for your tips! BD
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Lascaux Caves: Which Replica Should We Visit?
Hi there,

We're really into prehistory and want to visit the cave replica. But there are two—Lascaux 2 and Lascaux 4. What are the differences, and which one should we visit? Plus, there’s also the Prehistory Museum in Les Eyzies. Is that worth checking out too? Thanks for your advice!
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Getting from Beauvais Airport to Paris
I’m about to land at Beauvais Airport for my first visit to the capital, and I’ll admit I’m a bit lost about the transport options to get to central Paris. Any tips on the best deals for the trip? 🚌🚇

I’d also love to discover some lesser-known spots beyond the must-sees like the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the Louvre. Any suggestions for cool places to visit? 😍

And if I decide to go to Disneyland, do you know if there are any convenient and budget-friendly shared shuttles from the city center? 🎢✨

Thanks in advance for all your tips! 🙏
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Affordable Airbnb or aparthotel in a nice neighborhood
Hi everyone. I’m planning to spend a few days in Paris with my husband and son for the Agriculture Show in Feb 2025. We’d also like to visit some of the classic sights—Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame.

I have no idea where to look for an affordable Airbnb or aparthotel in a nice neighborhood. Any tips? Thanks in advance
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Which transport should I take from Drancy to the Grévin Museum (Paris)?
Hi, I need your advice. I’m heading to Drancy in the Paris region this Friday, on Auguste Blanqui Street—apparently it’s next to a police station. I’d like to get from there to the Grévin Museum, but I’m not sure how: should I take the bus, RER, tram, or metro? If a kind soul could point me in the right direction and explain what type of transport ticket I need, that’d be great. I’m new to getting around Paris—I’m from the north and not used to it. Thanks in advance!
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Retraite en Corse
Bonjour, je suis venu a plusieurs reprise en corse avec nos enfants, nous avons adoré l'acceuil et la sympathie des habitants au cours de nos découvertes de nombreux villages.Nous sommes originaires du JURA . Maintenant nous sommes a la retraite et nous aimerions habiter entre bastia et porto vecchcio . quel village ou ville recommanderiez vous pour une vie paisible et chaleureuse.

La Corse, c'est un peu comme tous les pays du Monde. Fabuleuse en vacances, toujours bien considérés par les autochtones en tant que touristes, et tout change lorsque l'on devient un résident permanent. Vous serez toujours un continental aux yeux des locaux. Une fois que vous aurez accepté cette situation, vous passerez une belle retraite en Corse.

Un conseil gratuit ? Ne vous occupez pas de faire de la politique là-bas ! Laissez faire les locaux.😉

Bonjour Domnib et Mitch, mes parents se sont installés en Corse il y a... plus de 50 ans. D'abord pour les vacances, puis pour leur retraite. J'y passe maintenant (je suis à la retraite depuis peu) plusieurs semaines, ou mois (toujours en dehors de l'été), pour rendre visite à mon père qui y vit seul, et s'il séjourne encore de temps en temps en région parisienne, il passe le plus clair de son temps dans sa résidence principale entre Ajaccio et Propriano. Tout n'a pas toujours été facile (la maison a sauté en 1988 lors d'une nuit bleue), mais nous adorons la Corse, ses paysages si variés propices aux belles randonnées, ses petites routes sinueuses, je crois les avoir presque toutes sillonnées. Les corses peuvent être très accueillants, mais jamais nous ne serons assimilés et resterons toujours des Pinzutu ! nous les respectons, ils nous respectent. Oui, une belle retraite en Corse est possible !
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Family trip to Sari Solenzara in the summer
Hi,

This summer, we’re planning a family trip to Corsica.

We’ve chosen Sari Solenzara because we want to combine: sea, mountain hikes, natural pools, canyoning, and peace and quiet. Does this choice seem like a good one to you?

Second question: which airport should we prioritize to have the easiest roads to access?

Thanks in advance for your tips! :-)
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First trip to southern France
Hi there,

My husband, our 1-year-old son, and I have decided to head to southern France in mid-September.

We don’t know the region at all—it’ll be our first time.

We only have 9 days, and we’re really torn between Provence for its gorgeous villages, its "slow" vibe, Provençal markets, flavors, and colors, and the famous French Riviera for its beaches, ports, and because it’s intrigued us for so long.

I found a beautiful place to stay in a *mas*, but it’s not in the region at all (it’s in the Gard).

My husband found a place he really likes in Saint-Aygulf, but before booking, I’m hesitating and wanted to get some advice.

Obviously, with only 9 days, we clearly have to choose. I thought about splitting the trip in two, but that seems like a bad idea for two reasons: first, we’re traveling with a little one, and second, if we spread ourselves too thin, we risk not seeing anything properly.

Since we don’t know the area at all, I’m worried the coastline might be too built-up with big buildings, etc., like Lloret de Mar (no offense to anyone who loves it—it’s just not what we’re looking for).

Anyway… what would you recommend for a first 9-day trip to the south?

Thanks so much!
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Questions about a stay with cultural and outdoor activities in Porticcio
Hi everyone,

I’ll be staying in Porticcio for a week in mid-June.

I’d love some tips on things I’d like to do while I’m there:

- Which rivers with waterfalls can you swim under or in natural "pools" near Porticcio?

- Where can I go to listen to Corsican singing in a church in the area (is there a specific day of the week for this, for example)?

- Which restaurant would you recommend for Corsican specialties in Sartène?

- Are there any excursions (Lavezzi Islands, Calanques de Piana) where we might spot dolphins?

- Where can I do hobie cat or optimist sailing, as well as jet skiing, around Porticcio?

That’s all for now! 😉 😉 😉

Thanks in advance for any tips you can share!
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Ferry crossing from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio
Hello, At the beginning of June, we’ll be spending a few days in Sardinia. We’ve decided to return via a detour through Corsica and want to make the crossing from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio (2 people and 1 car). There are currently two companies, Moby Lines and Ichnusa Lines, that operate this route. Unfortunately, we don’t know either of them at all. The prices and crossing times are pretty much the same, and we’d like to choose the most reliable one (punctuality/risk of cancellation for a booked crossing) and, if possible, the more comfortable of the two. Could you share your thoughts on either company to help us decide? Thanks in advance for your replies. Have a great day.
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Choosing a lively city with nightlife to live in France
Hi there, I’m facing a pretty big and important dilemma—I moved to Argentina (Buenos Aires) when I was 20, and now, at 30, I’m coming back to France. I’m looking for a city to live in and build a life for the next several years. I’m a single guy, so that’s the context.

The thing is, I have quite a few strict criteria... First and foremost, I *need* a city that’s bustling with people everywhere—I really don’t like quiet, small countryside towns. Nightlife is super important to me, especially on weekends. It’s crucial that there’s a wide range of options for going out in the evening (mostly bars—I’m not really into nightclubs, but I’d like to be one day if possible). The social aspect is the *most* important thing (honestly, the *only* thing that matters to me). I don’t care at all about living conditions, safety, cleanliness, or whether things work smoothly. But I *do* need a place where people are generally "chill"—not cold, rigid, or overly professional, with social norms that don’t make my head spin. I know I’ll never find the same Latin vibe here in France, haha, but I’m trying to survive anyway.

In France, I’ve always lived in Essonne (91), around Bures-sur-Yvette / Les Ulis / Gif / Orsay, etc. I *hate* it—way too quiet, empty streets, and zero activities that suit me. There’s not a single proper bar in any of the surrounding towns, just PMU tobacco shops, and nightlife is nonexistent.

I went to Hossegor once with friends—great vibe, nightlife, bars, beach, etc. But I’m guessing it’s *super* expensive to buy a place there, close to the action (and I’m not even sure if it’s a nice place to live overall).

When I came back to France, I spent 3 months in Paris because I thought it would obviously be the closest to what I was looking for. I still have horrible memories of it—it haunted me so much that I had to escape the capital in a hurry... And I was (I think?) in one of the best neighborhoods for my tastes: Belleville.

So here I am, going in circles because I don’t know enough about French cities. All my friends love quiet, small provincial towns or even living alone in the mountains.

A couple told me about Montreuil, but they were there a long time ago, so I don’t know what it’s like now. They said there was activity, that the city was pretty big, and that there was a good nightlife scene (bars, nightclubs, all kinds of outings), plus the metro (which would make it easy to get to Paris or for people to come to Montreuil from Paris).

So, for now, Montreuil is my only option, but I’m scared and would love other opinions (on Montreuil and other possibilities).

Sorry for the novel, but this is *really* important to me—my future depends on it, in a way ^^'

Thanks so much for reading and for any help you can give!
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