Sky
Iinéraire pour deux ou trois semaines en France
by Youkettte
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour Youkette
Vous me rappelez de beaux souvenir. en 2002 nous avons été mon époux, moi et nos 2 enfants en France pour 18jours. NOus avons visité Paris 3 jours et ensuite la Loire, Bordeaux, Carcasonne, Marseille, la Cote d'azur, nous avons séjourné 4 jours a l'Hotel la Nartelle de Ste-Maxime a quelques km de St-tropez et avions été jusqu'a Monaco, Canne, Nice pour terminer notre périple par la Provence ou nous avons visité les Beaux de Provence, Aix et nous aussi avons vue les Gorges du Verdon. Quel merveilles. Je vous comprends pour la route....certaines routes étaient plutot sinueuse. Le lien pour votre compte rendu ne fonctionne malheureusement pas.....J'ai bien hâte de vous lire. Je prépare un voyage pour 2009 La Forêt Noir(allemagne, suisse et incluant la partie des Alpes Francaise(Mont-Blanc ect..) pour finir par LYon. J'ai adoré la France et j, ai tres hâte d'y retourner.🙂
Vous me rappelez de beaux souvenir. en 2002 nous avons été mon époux, moi et nos 2 enfants en France pour 18jours. NOus avons visité Paris 3 jours et ensuite la Loire, Bordeaux, Carcasonne, Marseille, la Cote d'azur, nous avons séjourné 4 jours a l'Hotel la Nartelle de Ste-Maxime a quelques km de St-tropez et avions été jusqu'a Monaco, Canne, Nice pour terminer notre périple par la Provence ou nous avons visité les Beaux de Provence, Aix et nous aussi avons vue les Gorges du Verdon. Quel merveilles. Je vous comprends pour la route....certaines routes étaient plutot sinueuse. Le lien pour votre compte rendu ne fonctionne malheureusement pas.....J'ai bien hâte de vous lire. Je prépare un voyage pour 2009 La Forêt Noir(allemagne, suisse et incluant la partie des Alpes Francaise(Mont-Blanc ect..) pour finir par LYon. J'ai adoré la France et j, ai tres hâte d'y retourner.🙂
Disney 07/2000, France 06/2002, Carnival Destiny 01/2003 caraibe, Cuba 02/2004, Carnival Valor 02/2005 Caraibe Carnival Glory 02/2007 Caraibe/Royal Adventure OTS 09/2008 Caraibe/Carnival Glory 01/09 Caraibe/ Italy 07/2009/ Riviera Maya02/2010, France 07/2010, New York 01/2011 , Punta Cana 03/2011
Vous allez revenir en Europe c'est presque sûr !
Cest beau hein? mais il faut prendre le temps & c'est ce qui manque le plus
sachez que nous en sommes tous là !
La provence c'est extra non ?......mais il y a tout le reste!
l'Espagne est aussi riche que la France 'en moins touristique & l'Italie encore mieux mais en plus touristique !!
il y a la Grèce aussi & dans le nord "Brugge" en Belgique "Delft" en Hollande "Vienne" en Autriche "Paris" bien sûr! & puis partout une histoire multimillénaire dont les traces se retrouvent partout, même dans le plus obscurs Villages ! (Par contre en Allemagne ils ont tout cassé en 40/45! iln'ya plus grand chose à voir ! sinon les ançiens camps de la mort ....mais c'est pas gai !) il ya encore Berlin & Postdam qui vâlent le détour!
Pour info la bonne bouffe s'arrête à la frontière belgo /hollandaise & Allemande ! en dessous c'est bien mieux !!!!! ...bonne chance (sauf la cuisine indonésienne en Hollande qui est remarquable !....ançiennne colonie oblige !) @+
Pour info la bonne bouffe s'arrête à la frontière belgo /hollandaise & Allemande ! en dessous c'est bien mieux !!!!! ...bonne chance (sauf la cuisine indonésienne en Hollande qui est remarquable !....ançiennne colonie oblige !) @+
SAWADEE
Bonjour Youkettte,
Bien content de votre trip en France, un petit regret, vous avez sollicité l’avis d’internautes européens sur « VoyageForum » mais vos avis & impressions sur votre voyage, il faut aller les chercher sur un site « Quebecquois pur jus » ! Je l’ai fait avec plaisir mais il est très long à parcourir & plein de « privâtes jokes entre vous !! »
Peu d’intérêt pour nous ! Un petit résumé sur VoyageForum serait le bienvenu !
D’autant plus que votre perception de notre mode de vie à nous, pourrait enrichir notre perception du vôtre & nous permettraient à l’avenir de « prévenir » vos compatriotes de ce qui différencie l’Europe du Canada & ainsi les rassurer sur leurs craintes !
Vos Avis sur vos site canadiens n’appellent pas de réponse « européennes » & n’enrichissent pas le dialogue entre communautés ! (le cas évoqué des moustiquaires aux fenêtres est significatif d’une différence culturelle qui n’existe pas vraiment nous utilisons aussi des moustiquaires! )
SVP : ne prenez pas mal ce message mais plutôt comme une demande d’ouverture au dialogue !
Strotche
SAWADEE
Allo Stroche 🙂
Oui je comprends... Malgré qu'il y ait beaucoup d'européens sur le forum du lien (dont les 3 néo québécois mentionnés ci-haut ) il y a beaucoup d'inside jokes...
Je croyais pouvoir vous faire partager nos différences, mes impressions via ce lien, je me suis trompée... Désolée... 😊
Je vais remédier à la situation.... Donne-moi une semaine... pour vous faire part de mes impressions, sur ce forum... Je ne peux promettre avant... je crains de manquer de manquer de temps car je reçois en fin de semaine....
Stroche... je me suis informée ici, mais je me suis également informée auprès des membres de mon lien, ainsi qu'auprès des membres de cet organisme: http://www.hospitalityclub.org/ Tout comme je me suis informée à mon boulot... là où les profs ont beaucoup voyagé....
Je te reviens avec mes impressions bientôt.....
Youkettte 🙂
Oui je comprends... Malgré qu'il y ait beaucoup d'européens sur le forum du lien (dont les 3 néo québécois mentionnés ci-haut ) il y a beaucoup d'inside jokes...
Je croyais pouvoir vous faire partager nos différences, mes impressions via ce lien, je me suis trompée... Désolée... 😊
Je vais remédier à la situation.... Donne-moi une semaine... pour vous faire part de mes impressions, sur ce forum... Je ne peux promettre avant... je crains de manquer de manquer de temps car je reçois en fin de semaine....
Stroche... je me suis informée ici, mais je me suis également informée auprès des membres de mon lien, ainsi qu'auprès des membres de cet organisme: http://www.hospitalityclub.org/ Tout comme je me suis informée à mon boulot... là où les profs ont beaucoup voyagé....
Je te reviens avec mes impressions bientôt.....
Youkettte 🙂
Je prends quelques instants ce matin pour vous faire part de mes impressions…et je fais le parallèle avec le Québec seulement pour vous faire partager nos différences.... 😉
Nous avons ADORÉ notre voyage et une des 1re chose qui étonne et dépayse pour un québécois, ce sont vos maisons et pavés en pierre, ce matériau très noble, qui ici, est très peu utilisé car il coûte une fortune…. 😮
Vos châteaux…. Vos villages médiévaux… On ne retrouve rien de tel ici… Carcassonne est tout simplement magnifique!!!!🙂
Et je fus très surprise de constater que là où je suis allée, les maisons étaient toutes de la même couleur et qu’elles n’avaient pas de moustiquaire après les fenêtres et porte-patio… Ici, c’est carrément impensable avec tous les moustiques, mulots, écureuils et cie que nous avons…. 😊
Toutes ces vignes et oliviers qu’on retrouve un peu partout dans le midi… Que c’est beaaaaaaau…. 🙂
La sécheresse du climat dans le midi est surprenante….. Les plantes qu’on y retrouve sont des plantes, qui chez-nous, sont des plantes d’intérieur… et ici, il pleut régulièrement.... 🤪
L’étroitesse de vos rues est quelque chose à voir pour un nord-américain…. 😮 Et certaines routes sont complètement suicidaires, et le stationnement…. il semblerait que vous vous stationnez comme vous pouvez….😛 Ici les policiers seraient ravis de vous donner des contraventions…. 😉
Je fus impressionné également par le coût du vin et des fromages…. Mon Dieu!!!! Il est donné!!!! Ici, ces items sont tellement chers…. Multiplie par 5 au moins, et ce sont nos prix….🙁 Et la bouffe….. ah…. la bouffe….. ce qu’on mange bien en France…. Et dans les restos, toutes les taxes sont incluses… c'est tellement simple... Et parlant de bouffe, j’ai constaté que les gens ne mangeaient que les produits de saison…. contrairement à ici, où l’on trouve de tout, à l’année, à cause des méga supermarchés… Après avoir mangé durant 1 semaine des tomates, j’ai dû changer ma montre de poignet….😉
Les p’tits marchés locaux…. qui sont présents les avant-midi, une fois par semaine…. m’ont ravie…. et puis les chiens qui se promènent librement dans ce joyeux bazar…. Parlant de chiens, ils sont admis partout…. même au resto… 😮Oublie ça ici…. ils sont même interdits dans certains parcs…
Pour en revenir à la bouffe, j’ai y découvert les machines à repas chauds…. et j’ai appris à manger de la soupe aux poissons… Euh… je dois admettre que j’ai été bien embêtée lorsqu’on m’a présentée cette soupe….mais le serveur a gentiment fait ma culture... 🙂
Encore une chose qui m’a étonnée et que j’oubliais souvent, c’est que les commerces ferment une partie de l’après-midi et ferment tôt le soir… Ici, beaucoup de commerces sont ouverts 24/24 hres, 7 jours semaine…
J’ai rencontré le cousin de notre érable, soit le platane avec son tronc si joli…. Leurs feuilles sont les mêmes, sauf que ni un ni l’autre pourrait survivre dans la région de l’autre…
J’ai adoré les p’tits villages de pêcheurs sur la côte tels que Bandol et Sanary-sur-Mer….. Je salivais en voyant la fraîcheur des produits de la mer… Marseille m’a déçue un brin… On y retrouve beaucoup de pauvreté et les relents d’égout sont omniprésents… J’étais estomaquée de constater que les tramways, à Marseille se baladent, en plein milieu des rues… et la conduite automobile y est démente🤪….
Finalement, nous avons trouvé les coûts sont moindres qu’on s’y attendait… 🙂On s’était tellement faire dire que c’était onéreux la France… En réalité, ce qui est onéreux pour nous, c’est l’échange monétaire. Un euro nous coûtait 1, 65 $.
Et oui, c’est certain qu’on va retourner par chez-vous, nous ramassons déjà nos sous pour notre prochain voyage…🙂
Youkettte
Nous avons ADORÉ notre voyage et une des 1re chose qui étonne et dépayse pour un québécois, ce sont vos maisons et pavés en pierre, ce matériau très noble, qui ici, est très peu utilisé car il coûte une fortune…. 😮
Vos châteaux…. Vos villages médiévaux… On ne retrouve rien de tel ici… Carcassonne est tout simplement magnifique!!!!🙂
Et je fus très surprise de constater que là où je suis allée, les maisons étaient toutes de la même couleur et qu’elles n’avaient pas de moustiquaire après les fenêtres et porte-patio… Ici, c’est carrément impensable avec tous les moustiques, mulots, écureuils et cie que nous avons…. 😊
Toutes ces vignes et oliviers qu’on retrouve un peu partout dans le midi… Que c’est beaaaaaaau…. 🙂
La sécheresse du climat dans le midi est surprenante….. Les plantes qu’on y retrouve sont des plantes, qui chez-nous, sont des plantes d’intérieur… et ici, il pleut régulièrement.... 🤪
L’étroitesse de vos rues est quelque chose à voir pour un nord-américain…. 😮 Et certaines routes sont complètement suicidaires, et le stationnement…. il semblerait que vous vous stationnez comme vous pouvez….😛 Ici les policiers seraient ravis de vous donner des contraventions…. 😉
Je fus impressionné également par le coût du vin et des fromages…. Mon Dieu!!!! Il est donné!!!! Ici, ces items sont tellement chers…. Multiplie par 5 au moins, et ce sont nos prix….🙁 Et la bouffe….. ah…. la bouffe….. ce qu’on mange bien en France…. Et dans les restos, toutes les taxes sont incluses… c'est tellement simple... Et parlant de bouffe, j’ai constaté que les gens ne mangeaient que les produits de saison…. contrairement à ici, où l’on trouve de tout, à l’année, à cause des méga supermarchés… Après avoir mangé durant 1 semaine des tomates, j’ai dû changer ma montre de poignet….😉
Les p’tits marchés locaux…. qui sont présents les avant-midi, une fois par semaine…. m’ont ravie…. et puis les chiens qui se promènent librement dans ce joyeux bazar…. Parlant de chiens, ils sont admis partout…. même au resto… 😮Oublie ça ici…. ils sont même interdits dans certains parcs…
Pour en revenir à la bouffe, j’ai y découvert les machines à repas chauds…. et j’ai appris à manger de la soupe aux poissons… Euh… je dois admettre que j’ai été bien embêtée lorsqu’on m’a présentée cette soupe….mais le serveur a gentiment fait ma culture... 🙂
Encore une chose qui m’a étonnée et que j’oubliais souvent, c’est que les commerces ferment une partie de l’après-midi et ferment tôt le soir… Ici, beaucoup de commerces sont ouverts 24/24 hres, 7 jours semaine…
J’ai rencontré le cousin de notre érable, soit le platane avec son tronc si joli…. Leurs feuilles sont les mêmes, sauf que ni un ni l’autre pourrait survivre dans la région de l’autre…
J’ai adoré les p’tits villages de pêcheurs sur la côte tels que Bandol et Sanary-sur-Mer….. Je salivais en voyant la fraîcheur des produits de la mer… Marseille m’a déçue un brin… On y retrouve beaucoup de pauvreté et les relents d’égout sont omniprésents… J’étais estomaquée de constater que les tramways, à Marseille se baladent, en plein milieu des rues… et la conduite automobile y est démente🤪….
Finalement, nous avons trouvé les coûts sont moindres qu’on s’y attendait… 🙂On s’était tellement faire dire que c’était onéreux la France… En réalité, ce qui est onéreux pour nous, c’est l’échange monétaire. Un euro nous coûtait 1, 65 $.
Et oui, c’est certain qu’on va retourner par chez-vous, nous ramassons déjà nos sous pour notre prochain voyage…🙂
Youkettte
Bonjour Youkettte,
merci pour ce précieux témoignage. Je le dédicace tout spécialement à lea25triple0.
Bonne continuation à toutes et à tous.
merci pour ce précieux témoignage. Je le dédicace tout spécialement à lea25triple0.
Bonne continuation à toutes et à tous.
Le rond point est une invention Française qui se propage à toute l'europe, & qui a 2 avantages 1° supprime des feux de signalisation, 2° réduit la vitesse....... cependant ils en mettent trop.... même dans des endroits où cela ne se justife pas! ce qui fait que traverser la France par les routes nationales devient une épopée très très lente... on prend donc les autoroutes "payantes" !
Mais au niveau sécurité des "villages" c'est un plus ! c'est en tout cas mieux que les "casses vitesse" (gendarmes couchés, ou dos d'ânes!) qui se multiplent tout autant !
SAWADEE
Faites en part à vos édiles politiques & vous deviendrez peut-être une vedette en votre beau pays 😇
🙂
SAWADEE
bonjour,
selon moi, le systéme nord americain de mettre un stop à chaque voie d'un carrefour dangereux a plus d'avantages : 1) le prix . cout moyen d'un rond point en France 300000 € 2) la sécurité : meilleure puisque tout le monde s'arrete (en principe!)
et pour habiter dans un village, les casses vitesse sont aujoud'hui la seule solution pour faire ralentir les gens, à moindre cout de fabication et d'entretien, un inconvénient le bruit . malheureusement le plus simple à tout cela serait bien sur la discipline et le respect !!!!!
pour notre amie québécoise : merci de ton compte rendu de ton voyage et de ta perception de la vie à la française . à bientot dans le sud ouest (le lot plus précisément et sa nature et sites préservés !) à +
selon moi, le systéme nord americain de mettre un stop à chaque voie d'un carrefour dangereux a plus d'avantages : 1) le prix . cout moyen d'un rond point en France 300000 € 2) la sécurité : meilleure puisque tout le monde s'arrete (en principe!)
et pour habiter dans un village, les casses vitesse sont aujoud'hui la seule solution pour faire ralentir les gens, à moindre cout de fabication et d'entretien, un inconvénient le bruit . malheureusement le plus simple à tout cela serait bien sur la discipline et le respect !!!!!
pour notre amie québécoise : merci de ton compte rendu de ton voyage et de ta perception de la vie à la française . à bientot dans le sud ouest (le lot plus précisément et sa nature et sites préservés !) à +
philippe du lot
les casse vitesse sont des dispositifs en forme de grosse bosse posées perpendiculairement à l'axe routier 😕
Voir le petit site ci annexé ;
http://blogues.cyberpresse.ca/amoureuxdufrancais/?p=70121029 Bonne journée! 😉
http://blogues.cyberpresse.ca/amoureuxdufrancais/?p=70121029 Bonne journée! 😉
SAWADEE
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Thanks so much for reading and for any help you can give!
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).
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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! 😊
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! 😊
Hi there,
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?
Thanks so much for your help!
Best,
deb75
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?
Thanks so much for your help!
Best,
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
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
Thanks! Have a nice day