Tag: tourism

Biarritz Guide: Beaches, Restaurants and Shopping in the ‘California of France’

Biarritz Guide: Beaches, Restaurants and Shopping in the ‘California of France’

When you think of France, you almost certainly don’t imagine a surfer chic lifestyle. But a little slice of California-style heaven does exist on the southwest coast and I experienced a coup de cœur the first time I visited Biarritz and the surrounding area.

One Perfect Paris Day: Five Itineraries for 24 Hours in the French Capital

One Perfect Paris Day: Five Itineraries for 24 Hours in the French Capital

How do you make the most of a short stay in Paris? The answer depends on your goal! I created five itineraries depending on what you consider to be a perfect Paris day.

La Vie de Château: A French Weekend in the Champagne Region

La Vie de Château: A French Weekend in the Champagne Region

My diary of a classic French weekend away in the Champagne region. A stay at Château de Courcelles, one of France’s many beautiful châteaux that have been transformed into world-class hotels.

My Favorite Paris Café Terraces for Wine au Soleil

My Favorite Paris Café Terraces for Wine au Soleil

Wine and long conversation en terrasse is a time-honored pastime in France, but is especially cherished when the grey winter gives way to sunshine. Here are my top picks in Paris!

15 Perfectly French (and Authentic) Christmas Gifts

15 Perfectly French (and Authentic) Christmas Gifts

If you’re in Paris before the holidays, skip the souvenir shops and buy your loved ones a special, quintessentially French present. Or you can always use the internet to deliver a little France to you. These are my favorite French gift ideas this year.

Biking in Provence for Dummies

Biking in Provence for Dummies

I’m no Tour de France rider. I’m not even a bike-with-gears kind of rider. So when my sister (also an amateur) suggested we do a three-day, self-guided cycling trip through Provence, I balked.

French Favorites: Basque Espadrilles

French Favorites: Basque Espadrilles

Next up in my “French Favorites” series: handmade espadrilles from the French Basque region. This traditional shoe is chic and inexpensive and has become my go-to summer footwear. It’s a must-have souvenir from Biarritz — customizing your own and watching the ribbons being sewn-on really…

Paris is for (Book) Lovers

Paris is for (Book) Lovers

Even on vacation a girl’s gotta read! Paris has got you covered with great spots for reading or picking up a new book whether you live here or are just passing through.

Your Perfect Champagne Region Itinerary — Two Days of Bubbly without a Car

Your Perfect Champagne Region Itinerary — Two Days of Bubbly without a Car

Just an hour from Paris lies a magical land where sparkling wine flows like rivers and the most pampered grapes in world fulfill their ultimate destiny. The Champagne region is one of France’s most famous and posh areas, and in two days you can enjoy…

Shopping for Deals in Paris: Sales, Outlets and Tax Refunds

Shopping for Deals in Paris: Sales, Outlets and Tax Refunds

Did you know that in France the sales are controlled by the government? There are only two official times “Les Soldes” are allowed — once in the summer and once in the winter. However, there are secrets to getting deals in Paris anytime of year.