La(les) ville(s) française(s) où vous ne vivrez jamais?
by Likeavirgin
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Ah bah Levallois, tu m'étonnes!
mais tu m'accorderas qu'entre Levallois et le fin fond du 15ème (ce n'est qu'un exemple, le 16ème est bien mortel dans le genre et y'en au d'autres, hein) y'a pas vraiment de différence.
Rentrer en banlieue, bah ça dépend de quelle banlieue... c'est toujours pareil. Moi j'ai le métro le w.e jusqu'à 2h du matin. Je peux même rentrer en vélib et finir à pied!
Ce que je veux dire c'est: ça dépend de quelle banlieue on parle et de quels quartiers parisiens on parle.
"Quand le bûcheron entra dans la forêt, les arbres regardèrent la hache.
L'un d'eux dit aux autres: "ne soyons pas inquiets, le manche est des nôtres". D'après Pierre Marchand.
Ce qui compte dans le choix où le rejet d'une ville ce n'est pas seulement la ville mais aussi son environnement : j'ai passé une semaine à Dunkerque , je ne peux pas dire que ça m'a séduit, mais pouvoir y faire de la voile, la proximité avec la Belgique , l'Angleterre , le fait que Dunkerque se trouve dans une région ayant une culture propre (flamande ) confère à Dunkerque plus d'attrait(pour moi) qu'Evreux ou Dreux ou même Reims qui est plus belle.
dieppe
Pas faux sur quoi?
Sur les similitudes entre Levallois et le fin fond du 15ème ou sur la "macrocéphalie parisienne" (comme le dit Kelsuff) Paris/Banlieue?
Les deux, n'est-ce-pas😄?
"Quand le bûcheron entra dans la forêt, les arbres regardèrent la hache.
L'un d'eux dit aux autres: "ne soyons pas inquiets, le manche est des nôtres". D'après Pierre Marchand.
Dis donc...quelle drôle de question...
Vous voulez mettre ''la Switch à Bitch'' comme on dit au Québec
J'ai pris le métro à Paris et c'est un peu comme tous les métros du monde.....si on est avec quelqu'un qu'on connait, ca fait quelqu'un avec qui parler...sinon, on est entouré d'étrangers
J'ai fait de la campagne française, de grandes villes françaises et chacune a sa qualité et son défaut....
Rien n'est parfait sur cette planète.....vous l'avez oublié :-)
Vous voulez mettre ''la Switch à Bitch'' comme on dit au Québec
J'ai pris le métro à Paris et c'est un peu comme tous les métros du monde.....si on est avec quelqu'un qu'on connait, ca fait quelqu'un avec qui parler...sinon, on est entouré d'étrangers
J'ai fait de la campagne française, de grandes villes françaises et chacune a sa qualité et son défaut....
Rien n'est parfait sur cette planète.....vous l'avez oublié :-)
Mariecécileg
Vous ici ? Encore en train de tchatcher ???
C'est les gens du Sud ça !!!
Vous le sud est, Moi le sud ouest : c'est clair que l'on a pas envie de partir. Mais des fois la vie fait qu'il faut partir. Mon avenir est en train de ce jouer ces jours-ci. Alors peut-être que dans quelques temps je serais dans le Nord !!! Oui le Nord !!! Paris quoi !!!
C'est les gens du Sud ça !!!
Vous le sud est, Moi le sud ouest : c'est clair que l'on a pas envie de partir. Mais des fois la vie fait qu'il faut partir. Mon avenir est en train de ce jouer ces jours-ci. Alors peut-être que dans quelques temps je serais dans le Nord !!! Oui le Nord !!! Paris quoi !!!
Non seulement je l'accepte, mais en plus je m'en félicite car si les 65 millions de Français voulaient vivre à Paris, là, ça serait vraiment infernal 😏 !
et puis heureusement que l'on n'a pas tous les mêmes loisirs, ce serait triste...
Cela dit, moi non plus je ne suis pas (du tout !) boîte nuit ; ça nous fait un point commun ! 🙂
Tiens, pas curiosité : c'est quoi les loisirs d'un parisien s'il ne va que rarement à la montagne, à la campagne ou à la mer ? J'ai un peu de mal à m'imaginer ce que l'on peut y faire (hormis les mêmes choses que dans les autres villes : ciné, resto...).
et puis heureusement que l'on n'a pas tous les mêmes loisirs, ce serait triste...
Cela dit, moi non plus je ne suis pas (du tout !) boîte nuit ; ça nous fait un point commun ! 🙂
Tiens, pas curiosité : c'est quoi les loisirs d'un parisien s'il ne va que rarement à la montagne, à la campagne ou à la mer ? J'ai un peu de mal à m'imaginer ce que l'on peut y faire (hormis les mêmes choses que dans les autres villes : ciné, resto...).
Chaque retour de voyage me permet d'apprécier davantage la beauté des paysages de France.
Les loisirs d'un Parisien ?
Ben d'abord, si vraiment il veut partir hein, c'est simple, il y a 6 gares de grandes lignes et deux aéroports internationaux à proximité. Ça, c'est pour quelques week-ends et les vacances. C'est super pratique. Mes copains de province qui veulent quitter la France pour leurs vacances sont presque toujours obligés de passer par Paris, ce qui transforme des voyages simples en véritable expédition...
Sinon, effectivement, on peut aller au resto. Alors l'avantage sur une petite ville comme Nantes, c'est qu'à moins de 15 minutes a pied de chez moi, je dois avoir le choix entre 50 restos, dont une dizaine que je fréquente plus ou moins fréquemment... Avec un coup de métro (ou de taxi pour rentrer le soir) on a accès à des centaines de restos, de toutes nationalités, de tous les niveaux comme aucune autre ville en France n'en connaît. Je suis un adepte du Japon et j'adore la gastronomie Japonaise. A Paris il y a beaucoup de (vrais !) restos Japonais alors que c'est rarissime en province.
J'ai aussi un nombre incalculable des balades à faire. Ce n'est pas la montagne, c'est la ville. mais c'est très beau aussi. Architecture, petites rues méconnues des touristes... et même de bien des Parisiens, je t'assure qu'on peut y passer des jours et des jours... et même, dans mon cas, des années...
La liste n'est bien sûr pas exhaustive...
Ben d'abord, si vraiment il veut partir hein, c'est simple, il y a 6 gares de grandes lignes et deux aéroports internationaux à proximité. Ça, c'est pour quelques week-ends et les vacances. C'est super pratique. Mes copains de province qui veulent quitter la France pour leurs vacances sont presque toujours obligés de passer par Paris, ce qui transforme des voyages simples en véritable expédition...
Sinon, effectivement, on peut aller au resto. Alors l'avantage sur une petite ville comme Nantes, c'est qu'à moins de 15 minutes a pied de chez moi, je dois avoir le choix entre 50 restos, dont une dizaine que je fréquente plus ou moins fréquemment... Avec un coup de métro (ou de taxi pour rentrer le soir) on a accès à des centaines de restos, de toutes nationalités, de tous les niveaux comme aucune autre ville en France n'en connaît. Je suis un adepte du Japon et j'adore la gastronomie Japonaise. A Paris il y a beaucoup de (vrais !) restos Japonais alors que c'est rarissime en province.
J'ai aussi un nombre incalculable des balades à faire. Ce n'est pas la montagne, c'est la ville. mais c'est très beau aussi. Architecture, petites rues méconnues des touristes... et même de bien des Parisiens, je t'assure qu'on peut y passer des jours et des jours... et même, dans mon cas, des années...
La liste n'est bien sûr pas exhaustive...
Les loisirs d'un Parisien ?
Ben d'abord, si vraiment il veut partir hein, c'est simple, il y a 6 gares de grandes lignes et deux aéroports internationaux à proximité. Ça, c'est pour quelques week-ends et les vacances. C'est super pratique. Mes copains de province qui veulent quitter la France pour leurs vacances sont presque toujours obligés de passer par Paris, ce qui transforme des voyages simples en véritable expédition...
faut pas exagérer non plus : je voyage un peu et un Toulouse -> Paris c'est 50 minutes de vol. Alors certes il faut changer mais quand même... Ce n'est pas une expédition non plus. Et puis les vacances, ça n'arrive qu'1 ou 2 fois par an 😕
Sinon, effectivement, on peut aller au resto. Alors l'avantage sur une petite ville comme Nantes, c'est qu'à moins de 15 minutes a pied de chez moi, je dois avoir le choix entre 50 restos, dont une dizaine que je fréquente plus ou moins fréquemment... Avec un coup de métro (ou de taxi pour rentrer le soir) on a accès à des centaines de restos, de toutes nationalités, de tous les niveaux comme aucune autre ville en France n'en connaît. Je suis un adepte du Japon et j'adore la gastronomie Japonaise. A Paris il y a beaucoup de (vrais !) restos Japonais alors que c'est rarissime en province.
Pour aller régulièrement à Paris, j'admets que vous avez le choix. Perso les restos j'y vais de tps en tps avec le boulot et pas trop envie d'y aller par ailleurs, même si parfois un tête à tête amoureux n'est pas déplaisant. En +, si c'est pour manger japonais (bof, j'ai essayé une fois)... Mais je comprends l'argument si c'est un loisir que tu pratique régulièrement (pas moi).
J'ai aussi un nombre incalculable des balades à faire. Ce n'est pas la montagne, c'est la ville. mais c'est très beau aussi. Architecture, petites rues méconnues des touristes... et même de bien des Parisiens, je t'assure qu'on peut y passer des jours et des jours... et même, dans mon cas, des années... La liste n'est bien sûr pas exhaustive...
mouais, certes c'est joli. Mais ça reste de rues, des ruelles... je crois que définitivement, les goûts et les couleurs... Ce qui est bien par contre, ce que les meeting ou expositions sont immenses et on peut donc facilement y voir des choses que l'on ne voit pas ailleurs, je veux dire en Province !
Ben d'abord, si vraiment il veut partir hein, c'est simple, il y a 6 gares de grandes lignes et deux aéroports internationaux à proximité. Ça, c'est pour quelques week-ends et les vacances. C'est super pratique. Mes copains de province qui veulent quitter la France pour leurs vacances sont presque toujours obligés de passer par Paris, ce qui transforme des voyages simples en véritable expédition...
faut pas exagérer non plus : je voyage un peu et un Toulouse -> Paris c'est 50 minutes de vol. Alors certes il faut changer mais quand même... Ce n'est pas une expédition non plus. Et puis les vacances, ça n'arrive qu'1 ou 2 fois par an 😕
Sinon, effectivement, on peut aller au resto. Alors l'avantage sur une petite ville comme Nantes, c'est qu'à moins de 15 minutes a pied de chez moi, je dois avoir le choix entre 50 restos, dont une dizaine que je fréquente plus ou moins fréquemment... Avec un coup de métro (ou de taxi pour rentrer le soir) on a accès à des centaines de restos, de toutes nationalités, de tous les niveaux comme aucune autre ville en France n'en connaît. Je suis un adepte du Japon et j'adore la gastronomie Japonaise. A Paris il y a beaucoup de (vrais !) restos Japonais alors que c'est rarissime en province.
Pour aller régulièrement à Paris, j'admets que vous avez le choix. Perso les restos j'y vais de tps en tps avec le boulot et pas trop envie d'y aller par ailleurs, même si parfois un tête à tête amoureux n'est pas déplaisant. En +, si c'est pour manger japonais (bof, j'ai essayé une fois)... Mais je comprends l'argument si c'est un loisir que tu pratique régulièrement (pas moi).
J'ai aussi un nombre incalculable des balades à faire. Ce n'est pas la montagne, c'est la ville. mais c'est très beau aussi. Architecture, petites rues méconnues des touristes... et même de bien des Parisiens, je t'assure qu'on peut y passer des jours et des jours... et même, dans mon cas, des années... La liste n'est bien sûr pas exhaustive...
mouais, certes c'est joli. Mais ça reste de rues, des ruelles... je crois que définitivement, les goûts et les couleurs... Ce qui est bien par contre, ce que les meeting ou expositions sont immenses et on peut donc facilement y voir des choses que l'on ne voit pas ailleurs, je veux dire en Province !
Chaque retour de voyage me permet d'apprécier davantage la beauté des paysages de France.
1. Les vacances c'est une ou deux fois par an. D'accord, mais justement, avec des aéroports internationaux à proximité, ça déclanche aussi plus facilement l'envie de partir sur un coup de tête : en une heure trente tu es en Irlande (simple exemple, hein !), c'est donc faisable sur un week-end alors que tuperdra une bonne demie-journée en venant de province su-i tu n'as pas de vol direct.
2. Je pense que le resto Japonais dans lequel tu as mangé n'était justement pas un vrai Japonais (tu y a mangé quoi ? Sushi et brochettes ?).
3. Ça reste des rues et des ruelles... heu, oui, en fin, des jardins, des parcs et endroits insolites aussi... Et si tu vas par là, la montagne hein, c'est jamais que des gros rochers 😄...
Attention hein, je n'ai pas dit que je n'aime pas la montagne. Je la réserve plutôt pour les vacances. Je ne me vois vraiment pas y vivre.
2. Je pense que le resto Japonais dans lequel tu as mangé n'était justement pas un vrai Japonais (tu y a mangé quoi ? Sushi et brochettes ?).
3. Ça reste des rues et des ruelles... heu, oui, en fin, des jardins, des parcs et endroits insolites aussi... Et si tu vas par là, la montagne hein, c'est jamais que des gros rochers 😄...
Attention hein, je n'ai pas dit que je n'aime pas la montagne. Je la réserve plutôt pour les vacances. Je ne me vois vraiment pas y vivre.
Elle est nulle cette discussion.
Comment peut-on dire qu'on ne vivra jamais dans une ville sans y avoir gouter ?
Mes randos et voyages : http://www.alidade.eu
Enfin à choisir je prefère habiter à Paris qu' à Rennes. ( plus de choses à faire tout de même )
Un compromis : vivre à Paris, OK, mais rue de Rennes
Un compromis : vivre à Paris, OK, mais rue de Rennes
ChR
Malheureusement je n'ai pas 3 000 000 de dollars et je dois faire un choix parmis les villes que je visiterais et que j'habiterais
Les plus detestées et les plus adorées voilà mon choix.
Et puis avoir une discussion inutile c'est utile !
Et même si ça ne l'était pas utile. Tanpis ! Parfois c'est bien de faire des choses inutiles !
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I’m looking for a ski resort in the Massif Central for a family trip—two adults and three kids (ages 4, 5, and 6)—for a week between late February and early March.
The main goal is to introduce my kids to skiing, so I’m looking for a resort that’s really "family-friendly." But honestly, almost every resort (Super-Besse, Mont-Dore, Lioran, etc.) claims to be family-friendly, so I’m not sure which one to choose. Plus, it’s not always easy to check the location of accommodations on booking sites.
For what I have in mind, we don’t need 30 km of slopes. What would be ideal, though, is a resort that’s mostly pedestrian-friendly, with lodging within a reasonable distance from the base of the slopes and a ski school available.
I’ve read some things here about places like "Chalmazel-Jeansagnière," but the thread is a bit old.
Any recommendations?
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deb75
Hi,
We’re heading to Corsica at the end of July, and after a 4-night stay in Zonza, I’d like to head toward Cargèse or Porto to visit the Calanques de Piana. What’s the actual travel time? Maps says 2h40/3h, but I’m wondering if that’s really accurate.
How long does it take to get back to Ajaccio Airport afterward?
Thanks!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip to Normandy and, after reading quite a few posts here, I still have some questions about the most logical order to avoid spending too much time on the road.
The idea is to have a fairly smooth itinerary, taking the time to enjoy the places, over about ten days (possibly a little more), combining the coast and the inland areas.
I’m particularly wondering about: – The best starting point (starting with Mont-Saint-Michel or saving it for the end) – The balance between the coastline and more inland areas – The areas where it’s really worth slowing down the pace
If any of you have done a route that felt particularly coherent, your feedback would really help me fine-tune the planning.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
I’m planning a trip to Normandy and, after reading quite a few posts here, I still have some questions about the most logical order to avoid spending too much time on the road.
The idea is to have a fairly smooth itinerary, taking the time to enjoy the places, over about ten days (possibly a little more), combining the coast and the inland areas.
I’m particularly wondering about: – The best starting point (starting with Mont-Saint-Michel or saving it for the end) – The balance between the coastline and more inland areas – The areas where it’s really worth slowing down the pace
If any of you have done a route that felt particularly coherent, your feedback would really help me fine-tune the planning.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
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
Hi there,
We’re about to finalize a booking for late July near the Pink Granite Coast. We’re wondering about the traffic jams that could make our trip miserable, given how famous the place is—we’re excited to see it too. Could it get pretty bad?
Thanks for sharing your experiences.
In June 2020, my wife and I will be visiting Brittany and Normandy. We’d especially love to explore villages that aren’t part of the usual tourist routes. We enjoy traveling off the beaten path.
We’re reaching out to you all to share which villages we should check out in these two regions. Thanks.
We’re reaching out to you all to share which villages we should check out in these two regions. Thanks.
Hello everyone,
Here’s the account of the start of our 5/7-day trip in Normandy (then off to the neighbors in... Brittany):
Day 01 from Valenciennes to Mont Saint-Michel: Sunday, September 6, 2020.
After a detour through the south of Lille (picking up our son), we head southwest around 10:00 AM, taking the highways via Amiens, the Pont de Normandie, and Avranches to arrive at "the Mount" around 4:00 PM after 515 km. Parking P3 (14.20 € for 24 hours) for residents and hotels, located 50 meters from the start of the free round-trip shuttle included in the parking price (not too many tourists at this "late" Sunday hour), and we arrive at the hotel around 4:30 PM. Triple room with a view of the bay at Hôtel Du Guesclin for 1 night. From 5:15 PM to 6:30 PM, we tackle the complete tour of the ramparts counterclockwise from the Porte de l’Avancée, via the Tour du Nord (near the abbey entrance), passing in front of the abbey to reach the Tour Gabriel, and back to the start: stunning, not crowded, great weather, and amazing views. Dinner in the beautiful panoramic restaurant of the hotel, with a bay view at a "window" table (such a nice touch!). Of course, the day isn’t over, and we can then wander through a deserted main street and its unique atmosphere (photos below labeled "night" even though it’s only 9:15/9:30 PM). What a privilege!

Day 02 from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Cast: Monday, September 7, 2020.
After a memorable sunrise over the bay and a sit-down breakfast, we climb the steps to the Abbey for our online-reserved time slot (9:30 AM, 11 € per person). The "masked group" is quite large, though within normal limits, and the one-way Covid-marked route (with a small brochure) prevents crowds. No need to rush, and 1 hour 15 minutes later, we’re done. Sure, it doesn’t have the charm of a guided tour, but we’re not complaining about being there! We pick up our bags at the hotel, take the shuttle back, grab the car at Parking P3, and head "south" to Dol-de-Bretagne, 26 km/25 minutes away. Around noon, the small town is very quiet, and parking in front of the Saint-Samson Cathedral** is free. Across the street, the tourist office is generous with info and gives us a great walking map/circuit: Cathedral, a stroll near the ramparts, the historic center** with its typical shopping streets and half-timbered houses, all covered at a leisurely pace in 45 minutes. Then a picnic on-site. It’s another 50 km/50 minutes to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo and the Armor Conseil agency for the apartment keys (Résidence du Casino, 72 m², 5th floor, 2 bedrooms, beach 20 meters away, insane morning and evening views, bed linen rental at Ohier 50 meters away, Carrefour City supermarket, and a bakery 200 meters away, plus a town center that hasn’t changed much in 25/30 years. Really, really nice. After settling in, a short walk is a must up to the heights of the Isle neighborhood behind the seaside residence... memories. Strangely, the well-known Crêperie Bretan’Or seems to be closed, as does the venerable Hôtel du Centre et des Plages (formerly "des Voyageurs")?? And for this reunion evening with the resort, a great crêpe/galette dinner at La Régal’ette, just 100 meters away. Day’s total: 12 km of walking for sightseeing.
A few photos at the bottom of the page...
* Read the rest on the blog: https://blogs.crespel.me/bretagne/
Here’s the account of the start of our 5/7-day trip in Normandy (then off to the neighbors in... Brittany):
Day 01 from Valenciennes to Mont Saint-Michel: Sunday, September 6, 2020.
After a detour through the south of Lille (picking up our son), we head southwest around 10:00 AM, taking the highways via Amiens, the Pont de Normandie, and Avranches to arrive at "the Mount" around 4:00 PM after 515 km. Parking P3 (14.20 € for 24 hours) for residents and hotels, located 50 meters from the start of the free round-trip shuttle included in the parking price (not too many tourists at this "late" Sunday hour), and we arrive at the hotel around 4:30 PM. Triple room with a view of the bay at Hôtel Du Guesclin for 1 night. From 5:15 PM to 6:30 PM, we tackle the complete tour of the ramparts counterclockwise from the Porte de l’Avancée, via the Tour du Nord (near the abbey entrance), passing in front of the abbey to reach the Tour Gabriel, and back to the start: stunning, not crowded, great weather, and amazing views. Dinner in the beautiful panoramic restaurant of the hotel, with a bay view at a "window" table (such a nice touch!). Of course, the day isn’t over, and we can then wander through a deserted main street and its unique atmosphere (photos below labeled "night" even though it’s only 9:15/9:30 PM). What a privilege!

Day 02 from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Cast: Monday, September 7, 2020.
After a memorable sunrise over the bay and a sit-down breakfast, we climb the steps to the Abbey for our online-reserved time slot (9:30 AM, 11 € per person). The "masked group" is quite large, though within normal limits, and the one-way Covid-marked route (with a small brochure) prevents crowds. No need to rush, and 1 hour 15 minutes later, we’re done. Sure, it doesn’t have the charm of a guided tour, but we’re not complaining about being there! We pick up our bags at the hotel, take the shuttle back, grab the car at Parking P3, and head "south" to Dol-de-Bretagne, 26 km/25 minutes away. Around noon, the small town is very quiet, and parking in front of the Saint-Samson Cathedral** is free. Across the street, the tourist office is generous with info and gives us a great walking map/circuit: Cathedral, a stroll near the ramparts, the historic center** with its typical shopping streets and half-timbered houses, all covered at a leisurely pace in 45 minutes. Then a picnic on-site. It’s another 50 km/50 minutes to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo and the Armor Conseil agency for the apartment keys (Résidence du Casino, 72 m², 5th floor, 2 bedrooms, beach 20 meters away, insane morning and evening views, bed linen rental at Ohier 50 meters away, Carrefour City supermarket, and a bakery 200 meters away, plus a town center that hasn’t changed much in 25/30 years. Really, really nice. After settling in, a short walk is a must up to the heights of the Isle neighborhood behind the seaside residence... memories. Strangely, the well-known Crêperie Bretan’Or seems to be closed, as does the venerable Hôtel du Centre et des Plages (formerly "des Voyageurs")?? And for this reunion evening with the resort, a great crêpe/galette dinner at La Régal’ette, just 100 meters away. Day’s total: 12 km of walking for sightseeing.
A few photos at the bottom of the page...
* Read the rest on the blog: https://blogs.crespel.me/bretagne/
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
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
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! 👍😊❤️❤️
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! 👍😊❤️❤️
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! :-)
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! :-)
Hi everyone,
We’ve wanted to visit Alsace for a long time to see the famous and well-known "Christmas markets."
Apart from the one in Strasbourg, could you give us some tips on other markets (Sélestat, Colmar, Mulhouse)?
Also, any recommendations for hotels, restaurants, or things to see, etc.?
I know my question is a bit "basic," but we really need some expert advice.
Thanks in advance to all.
Hi there,
I’m planning to spend three days in the Annecy region. What would you recommend visiting? Just so you know, I love nature and enjoy walking, but I prefer hikes that aren’t longer than two hours.
Thanks for your great tips!
I’m planning to spend three days in the Annecy region. What would you recommend visiting? Just so you know, I love nature and enjoy walking, but I prefer hikes that aren’t longer than two hours.
Thanks for your great tips!
How do I get to ibis budget coeur orly from the Metro Line 14 Orly station on foot
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!
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!
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!
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!
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
Hi there,
We’re heading to Forcalquier as a couple and would love to explore the Valensole area, including the Verdon Gorge, etc. We’ll be there for 5 days, so I’d like to put together a little rundown of things to see, plus the best tips—what to avoid, what to recommend, restaurants, and so on.
Thanks so much!
Hi everyone, after a stay in the South and one in the North, I’m planning a mini road trip in Corsica (Bastia-Bastia) in June to explore places I haven’t seen yet. Since we’re heading to the mountains later this year, we’ve deliberately skipped the Corsican mountains. Could you share your thoughts and, most importantly, suggest things to see? We love nature, reasonable hikes, peaceful spots, and small villages. No cities. No boat excursions (yes, that includes Piana and Scandola). We already know the area between Bastia and Calvi.
June 7 Flight arrival in Bastia and night at the hotel
June 8 Drive to Calvi (beach and/or fortress) Meal at Les Boucaniers restaurant Night in Calvi
June 9 Walk from Calvi fortress to Alga beach Charcuterie platter at A Casetta Calvi Night in Calvi
June 10 Drive from Calvi to Piana Buvette du col de la Croix and visit the orientation table Chemin des muletiers (Muleteers’ Path) Or Sentier de la source des roches bleues (Blue Rocks Spring Trail) counterclockwise Or (less scenic) Tête du chien (Dog’s Head, starting at the parking lot) Dinner at Épicerie Castellani in Piana Night in Piana
June 11 Drive from Piana to Propriano Arone beach and meal at Le Café de la plage Drive along the coast, stopping wherever we like Night in Propriano
June 12 Hike starting from Campomoro in the Jardin du Vent (Wind Garden), and visit the Genoese tower of Campomoro Meal in Campomoro: restaurant Chez Pierre Paul U spuntinu Night in Propriano
June 13 Around Propriano (avoid Capu Laurosu beach—sewage treatment plant...) Night in Propriano
June 14 Drive from Propriano to Bastia airport Meal at L’Éternisula in Zonza Aiguilles de Bavella (Hole of the Bomb) Night at the same hotel as arrival
June 15 Departure
June 7 Flight arrival in Bastia and night at the hotel
June 8 Drive to Calvi (beach and/or fortress) Meal at Les Boucaniers restaurant Night in Calvi
June 9 Walk from Calvi fortress to Alga beach Charcuterie platter at A Casetta Calvi Night in Calvi
June 10 Drive from Calvi to Piana Buvette du col de la Croix and visit the orientation table Chemin des muletiers (Muleteers’ Path) Or Sentier de la source des roches bleues (Blue Rocks Spring Trail) counterclockwise Or (less scenic) Tête du chien (Dog’s Head, starting at the parking lot) Dinner at Épicerie Castellani in Piana Night in Piana
June 11 Drive from Piana to Propriano Arone beach and meal at Le Café de la plage Drive along the coast, stopping wherever we like Night in Propriano
June 12 Hike starting from Campomoro in the Jardin du Vent (Wind Garden), and visit the Genoese tower of Campomoro Meal in Campomoro: restaurant Chez Pierre Paul U spuntinu Night in Propriano
June 13 Around Propriano (avoid Capu Laurosu beach—sewage treatment plant...) Night in Propriano
June 14 Drive from Propriano to Bastia airport Meal at L’Éternisula in Zonza Aiguilles de Bavella (Hole of the Bomb) Night at the same hotel as arrival
June 15 Departure