Meet our travel partner, Sonia Jones

‘My must-do for a visit to Paris - zipping around the city in a vintage Citroen!’

‘Me in Japan - my Japanese is much better than my French haha.’

‘My favourite sunset anywhere in the world - Antibes!’

Why your love of travel?

My father loved to travel, and he instilled a passion for exploring in me! I took my first overseas trip when I was 2 and have never stopped! I love how travel exposes you to different cultures, food (very important!), languages, history and people. 

Favourite hidden jewel in France?

I have a few! Hands down BEST gem is the Albert Khan Museum and Garden in Paris – most Parisians don't even know about it! 

It’s a lovely, low-key escape from the busy centre of Paris, with beautiful gardens inspired by Japanese, English and French styles. The museum houses an extensive photo collection from Albert Kahn’s travels around the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is absolutely fascinating!

I'm also a huge fan of the French Riviera in December – sunny days, perfect weather for a rosé, Christmas decorations and no crowds! Antibes is always my pick, but Old Town Nice and Cannes are also fabulous this time of year.

And maybe it isn't so hidden, but the Christmas Tree at Galleries Lafayette in Paris is an absolute must-see if you're travelling there in December!

What’s the most surprising place you've ever travelled to?

Luang Prabang in Laos – a quiet town that is a blend of religion, history and daily life. Wandering the streets and admiring its golden temples, rising early for morning alms, exploring the vibrant markets, the way the Mekong winds through the town. Beyond the town, there are incredible caves, waterfalls, bear sanctuaries and beautiful scenery. It ended up being one of my favourite spots in Southeast Asia!

Any time you've ever felt scared travelling?

Sure – it comes with the territory, particularly when travelling solo as a woman. One of the things we really focus on for our clients (and ourselves when we travel) is minimising risk, whether that’s knowing when to prearrange transfers, choosing the right neighbourhoods to stay in, sharing practical personal safety tips for higher-risk destinations, or flagging cultural sensitivities that can unintentionally increase risk, like photography etiquette, clothing choices or public displays of affection.

Is there a place you'd return to time and time again?

Italy and Japan. I have connections with both countries, and travel to both regularly, yet every time I experience something different – a region, a town, a neighbourhood. I love getting under the skin of a destination, and when you speak a bit of the language somewhere, it opens doors and allows you to live more locally.

The most romantic thing to do in France is…

Head to Trocadéro to watch the sparkle of the Eiffel Tower on the hour each evening. It might be an obvious one, but it really is something special.

Beyond Paris, I love Provence for a romantic escape. Beautiful accommodation, incredible food and wine, wandering hilltop villages and markets, sweeping views, and sipping French rosé all day.

The travel accessory you couldn't live without?

Noise-cancelling headphones and an eye mask. I can sleep anywhere with them!

Best place to buy luggage?

July Luggage is gorgeous, lightweight, great quality and easy-to-spot colours. Antler is also fantastic and durable. Whatever you do, don't buy a black Samsonite and expect to spot it easily on the carousel!

Packing cubes – yes or no?

Yes! Always! Every size, shape and colour!

Do you have a favourite travel memoir or book?

I actually love fiction based around travel. Two recent favourites that happen to be set in France are The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris by Daisy Wood and The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris by Evie Woods.

What souvenir do you always bring back from France?

You mean other than the extra kilos I somehow acquire from eating my weight in macarons, cheese and bread?

I love jewellery and scarves. France is perfect for a pair of earrings or a beautiful scarf – chic, timeless, and easy to pack. I’ve also brought home gorgeous drawings and prints, and lavender products from Provence.

*in France and overseas

SJT Team

About SJT

Sonia Jones Travel is an award-winning, boutique travel agency specialising in tailored travel experiences. Based in Bardon, Brisbane, the team of five takes a hands-on, detail-focused approach to travel planning. They arrange itineraries across Australia and the globe, from family getaways and cruises to bucket-list adventures, independent rail journeys, guided tours, and slower, immersive travel.

Messy Nessy

If you’re a fan of fashion, art, curios and all things offbeat, don’t miss a visit to Messy Nessy’s Cabinet in the Latin Quarter when à Paris. Opened last year, *la petite boutique is a treasure trove of delights, from bottles of Eau de Seine (yes, it is what you think) to *les casquettes de baseball, logo sweaters, card games, books and antiques.

It’s the brainchild of Vanessa Grall, *la femme behind the cult blog Messy Nessy Chic and the Don’t Be a Tourist series of city guides. Pop by and say hi if in town—you’ll find Vanessa is often manning the till.

And if a Paris trip is not in your immediate future, you can also shop the collection online.

Messy Nessy’s Cabinet
19 rue de Bievre, 75005 Paris
Instagram: @messynessychic

*in Paris | *the little store | *baseball caps | *the woman

SWOON: Èze

Clinging dramatically to a hilltop on the Côte d'Azur, Èze is a picturesque medieval village between Nice and Monaco, also dubbed “the eagle’s nest”. Renowned for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, the village charms with narrow, winding cobblestone streets lined with quaint stone houses, artisan shops and bougainvillea.

Dating back to the Middle Ages, Èze is home to l’Église Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, an 18th-century church with a striking neoclassical facade. History lovers can also explore the ruins of a 12th-century *château, destroyed by Louis XIV's troops in the 1700s.

*Mais, ne t'inquiète pas, there’s also plenty to enjoy in this French Riviera gem if *les églises and medieval architecture are not *ton truc. Perched 429 metres above the sea lies the le Jardin Exotique d'Eze (the Exotic Garden of Èze), a beautiful garden filled with cacti and exotic plants that has inspired countless creatives throughout history, including Nietzsche.

Èze is also celebrated for its perfumeries, such as Fragonard, where you can soak up the exquisite fragrance and learn about the art of traditional French perfume-making.

*castle | *But, don’t worry | *churches | *your thing

SWOON: Place des Vosges

Straddling the 3rd and 4th arrondissements in the heart of le Marais lies *une petite tranche of heaven and an important part of French history. The oldest planned square in Paris, Place des Vosges is a beautiful public space frequented by tourists and locals all year round.

Originally known as Place Royale (Royal Square) but renamed after the French Revolution, the square was built by King Henry IV in the early 1600s. With a perfectly symmetrical design structured around the taller King's and Queen's Pavilions, Place Royale was, in fact, home to nobility but no royals – barring the future Queen of France, Anna of Austria who lived there briefly. You can read more about the square's rich history here.

Today, visitors stroll the arched walkways or drink in the atmosphere and red-brick architecture while lounging by the fountains, *une glace in hand. You’ll find lovers kissing on benches under linden trees, *les enfants playing in the sandpits, culture vultures visiting the galleries or Victor Hugo Museum (the literary icon once called No. 6 home), and others dining in the numerous cafés dotting the perimeter.

* a little slice | *the square | *an ice cream | *children  

La Maison Entre Les Rochers

Planning a trip to Brittany? Make sure you add la maison entre les rochers (“the house between the rocks”) to your itinerary. Located in Ploughrescant, the northernmost commune in Brittany, Castel Meur is *une petite maison en Pierre nestled between two giant granite boulders on a ruggedly beautiful coastline.

Also known as la maison du gouffre (the house of the abyss), the charming home was built in 1861, with its unusual location serving as protection from buffeting Atlantic winds and storms. Made famous by a postcard and drawing visitors since the 19th century, the “Big Castle” is privately owned and inhabited by a descendant of the original owner.

Unfortunately, this means the home is *fermée to guests – but you can still ooh and ahh from afar and fill your camera roll. You’ll want to.

*a little stone house | *closed

La Petite Boutique : Back from India

Looking to add some Eastern flair to your interiors – or your wardrobe? Then *jetez un œil at the gorgeous pieces Katrina handpicked (or cherry-picked?) on her recent trip to Pondicherry, India.

Handcrafted and affordable, all items are available to purchase in La Petite Boutique*. Or you’re welcome to drop us a line here if you’d like us to set anything aside.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, why not treat yourself to something special and unique.

PURE INDIAN PASHMINA SCARF

These authentic Indian pashminas were snapped up at a tiny boutique in Villa Helena, owned by an impossibly chic French woman.

Premium pashmina with ombre feature. Luxuriously soft, lightweight and generous size for versatile styling.
5 colours available - $110 AUD

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HANDCRAFTED INDIAN CUSHION COVERS

Add a pop of colour to your interiors with these stunning cushions featuring Rajasthani embroidery.

Handcrafted 40 x 40 cm cushion covers in traditional patterns with Rajasthani hand stitching.
5 colours available - $35 AUD

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HANDCRAFTED INDIAN NOTEBOOK SET

A fancy touch for your French class or gratitude journal, these artisanal *carnets were crafted at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and come in convenient sets of three.

7 x 10 cm notebooks made with traditional handcrafted paper from Sri Aurobindo Ashram’s paper mill.
Set of 3 notebooks. Assorted prints - $15 AUD

*take a look |*The Little Shop |*notebooks

Morocco merch - first look

Katrina’s back from Morocco but not before adding some weight to her valise* in the form of these irresistible finds from the souk*.

You’ll find them soon enough in La Petite Boutique*, but in the meantime, if you’d like us to put something away for you, just let us know here.

Ideal as des cadeaux de Noël, non*? Very limited stock (a medium-sized Samsonite only has so much capacity). See the full range au nid*

Pencil case-sized handmade burlap zippered pouch. Fully lined with bespoke embroidery and clip. Various colours/messages/motifs - $39 AUD

Medium clutch-sized handmade burlap zippered pouch. Fully lined with bespoke embroidery and handy clip. Various colours/messages/motifs - $49 AUD

Handmade straw tote with kid leather pom pom and plaited covered handles in Majorelle blue. One only - $250

Retro “La Gazelle” wicker picnic basket. One only - $150

*suitcase | *market | *The Little Shop | *Christmas presents, don’t you think? | *at the nest (Lingua Franca, Upstairs, 884 Brunswick St, New Farm, Brisbane)

Back from Morocco

Nous sommes de retour* from Morocco with de grands sourires*, gorgeous souvenirs (more on that soon!) and fabulous memories. What a feast for the senses (and stomach) it was.

Interested in seeing what we got up to? Head to our Instagram account for (near-daily) vlogs about our adventures. Perhaps it will entice you to bite the bullet and join us on one of our 2025 voyages*!

Not on social media? Pas de problème*. Check out our trip report page where you’ll find all the videos waiting for you.

*We’re back | *big smiles | *trips | *No problem

SWOON: Yvoire

With the nickname 'gem of the lake', Yvoire is a medieval French city bursting with charm. Adorning Lac Léman (Lake Geneve) in the department of Haute-Savoie in the southeastern French region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the 14th-century village is considered one of the country's plus beaux*.

A treat for historians and green thumbs, Yvoire is renowned for its beautiful springtime blooms and well-preserved medieval atmosphere. With cobbled streets and stone houses, remnants of fortified walls and the striking Chateau d'Yvoire, the village is picture-postcard perfect.

Not to be missed is Le Jardin de Cinq Sens (The Garden of the Five Senses) – a spectacular garden designed to engage all the senses.

*most beautiful

Voyage 2026: New Destination!

Get excited, foodies! We’re planning a fresh new location for our Lingua Franca *voyages in 2026 – a city regarded as the gastronomic capital of France that’s home to no less than 16 Michelin-starred restaurants.

Any ideas? This might help. On any given day, you might drink in the history of a city that was instrumental in *La Résistance, peruse the many traboules (hidden passageways) of the Old Town, admire Gallo-Roman ruins and sample produce from famous food markets such as Marché Saint-Antoine Célestins.

Hungry after your morning French lesson? *Pas de problème. You'll find satisfaction in local specialties like saucisson brioché, tarte à la praline and Salade Lyonnaise. Oops, we may have given the game away there…

Stay tuned for more information soon.

*travels | *The Resistance | *No problem

Brets Potato Chips

Craving a salty snack during your French class? We’ll soon be stocking just the thing in La Petite Boutique – Brets Potato Chips. For now though, just ask your prof* and they’ll be happy to grab you a bag.

Based in Central Brittany and 100% family-owned since 1995, Brets partners with 285 local potato farmers in Brittany and the Auvergne to create a delicious range of premium French chips.

We have *quatre saveurs appétissants:

• Originale – classic potato chips seasoned with the renowned Guerande salt from France.

• Camembert – made with Camembert from Normandy in western France for a rich, creamy taste.

• Jura – made with 100% PDO Comté from the French Jura. 

• Cèpes – crinkle-cut chips with a porcini mushroom flavour.

And, good news – you’ll get to try before you buy in your first lesson back for Term 4. *Bon appétit!

 *teacher | *four appetising flavours | *Enjoy!

SWOON: Lac d’Annecy

Located in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France, près des Alpes françaises*, Lac d'Annecy is a popular destination touristique* that attracts around 2.5 million visitors annually. And celebs such as actor Jean Reno who owns property in the area.

Spanning approximately 27.5 square kilometres, the alpine lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, often cited as the cleanest in Europe, and surrounded by picturesque mountains that lure nature lovers all year round.

With equipment rentals dotting the shoreline, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing – or take it easy with a scenic boat tour. Prefer to stay on dry land? There’s a 42-kilometre-long bike path and numerous hiking trails to keep you occupé(e)*, including Mont Veyrier and La Tournette.

For less adventure and plus de culture*, head to Annecy at the lake’s northern tip. Dubbed the ‘Venice of the Alps’, the charming medieval town is home to winding canals, châteaux* and historic architecture. Plus, a vibrant cultural and dining scene accessible by train from Paris and Lyon – and less than an hour’s bus ride from Geneva.

*French Alps | *tourist destination | *busy | *more culture | *castles

SWOON: Les Seychelles

Popular among honeymooners and adventure seekers, Les Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean that dazzles with its pristine white-sand beaches, lush *forêts vertes and diverse marine life while enticing Francophiles with its historical connection to France. 

In 1756, the French formally claimed the islands, naming them after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, the Minister of Finance under King Louis XV. Despite British control in the 19th century and eventual independence in 1976, the gallic influence is still evident today in the culture, Seychellois Creole language, and architecture. 

*Le tourisme is the mainstay of the local economy, with attractions like the Vallée de Mai with its coco de mer palms and Aldabra Atoll’s giant tortoises drawing nature lovers from far-flung corners. 

Whether you want to snorkel, dive, hike or relax, this picture-postcard destination won’t disappoint. 

*green forests | *tourism

Pâtisserie Stohrer

If you're in Paris, don’t miss a trip to Stohrer in the second arrondissement. Established in 1730 by King Louis XV's pastry chef, Nicolas Stohrer, the city's oldest pâtisserie is a must-visit for anyone with a taste for history and dessert in equal measure.

With an unchanged facade and cosy interior, the sole shopfront of this Parisian institution retains its historic charm on the busting Rue Montorgueil, a pedestrian market street popular with locals and tourists. Enter the store, and you’ll face a tough choice – will it be a classic éclair, a zesty tarte au citron*, or Nicolas’ famous creation, the booze-soaked Baba au rhum*?

Or, in the spirit of research, pourquoi pas les trois*? Visit the website to whet your appetite.

*lemon tart | *rum baba | *Why not all three?  

Source : www.facebook.com/StohrerParis/

20 Montmartre Must-Sees

Sacré-Coeur, Le Moulin Rouge, and the charming Maison Rose* (of Emily in Paris fame) may be some of the most-visited sites touristiques* in the picturesque Montmartre. But a tour of the 18th arrondissement’s iconic district shouldn’t stop there!

This video gives an insider’s pick of Montmartre’s 20 must-sees – complete with a route map. Make sure you bookmark it for your next trip to Paris.

*tourist sites | *Pink House

Les Dunes Blanches

If you ever find yourself in Bordeaux or on the Bay of Arcachon and feel your stomach start to rumble, you’re in for a treat. Head to a local pâtisserie* and you’ll have your tastebuds well and truly sated with the iconic Dune Blanche* pastry – a speciality of the region. 

Better yet, enjoy this Chantilly-filled delight in the place of its creation, Chez Pascal in the seaside resort of Cap Ferret. 

Named in honour of a beach on the Cap-Ferret Peninsula, the Dune Blanche (white dune) is a chantilly*-filled chouquette – a small choux puff topped with pearl sugar. A marriage made in heaven, oui*, but it was conceived by happy accident by Brice Lucas, the son of Pascal (of Chez Pascal) – a celebrated baker from Grand Piquey in Cap Ferret. 

Returning home in the wee hours of the morning, Brice decided to make himself a snack. He filled his father’s leftover chou buns with some nearby cream, et voilà*! Culinary magic was made, and la Dune Blanche won its first fan!

Registered in 2009, the light and airy chouquette is the signature dessert of Arcachon and Cap Ferret. However, you can find les Dunes as far afield as Paris, should the fancy take you. 

Just last year, several of our Chouchous* had a chance to sample the delicacy in the most propitious of circumstances - on a visit to a Cap Ferret beach while gazing at the Dune Blanche itself. Sublime*!

*pastry shop | *White Dune | *whipped cream flavoured with vanilla | *yes | there you go | *Teacher’s Pets | *Sublime!

Photo credit: Henri Lajarrige Lombard

SWOON: Morocco

If you’re looking to spice up your French studies, Morocco is la destination parfaite*. Located in northwest Africa, the country boasts a rich history and diverse, vibrant culture, coloured by a blend of Berber, Arab and European influences.

Travellers flock to the popular tourist destinations of Marrakech and Fes to drink in the atmosphere of the bustling souks and stunning mosques, with intrepid spirits drawn to the lure of the breathtaking landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert.

Adorned with colourful tiles and tranquil fontaines*, traditional riads provide inspiration for any architecture fan. While foodies will love sampling the local cuisine, from fragrant tagines to hearty couscous and delicate pastilla pastries.

A legacy of Morocco's colonial history, French is widely spoken, offering Francophone travellers (and students) the opportunity to immerse themselves in daily life. It’s what we'll be doing during our October Lingua Franca Morocco trip – will you be joining us?

*the perfect destination | *fountains

Musée Carnavalet

While the sheer number of galleries and museums in Paris can be overwhelming, à notre avis*, no visit to the city is complete without a leisurely stroll through the 100-odd rooms of Musée Carnavalet. 

Housed within two Renaissance-era mansions surrounding une très jolie cour* in the heart of Le Marais, the museum tells the story of Paris’s evolution from its humble beginnings to the thriving metropolis of today. 

Walking through Musée Carnavalet is like stepping into a living tableau of Parisian life. From the opulent salons of aristocratic households to the dwellings of everyday citizens, each room is painstakingly curated to capture the essence of different epochs*.

Opened in 1880, le musée* is home to an extensive array of artifacts, paintings and sculptures – over 580,000 objets* that will transport you back in time to the pivotal moments that have shaped the city's identity.

A must-visit for any lover of history, art and the magnificent city of Paris! And a charming spot for un apero* when you’ve had your culture fix.

*in our opinion | *a very pretty courtyard | *eras | *the museum | *objects | *a pre-dinner/lunch drink

Merci à Connolly Cove pour cette belle vidéo.

Le Travel Planner on Rue Bonaparte

Today we’re headed à Paris* with a peek into one of Le Travel Planner’s favourite destinations in the city, Rue Bonaparte. Located on the Left Bank in the 6th arrondissement, this charming street is the perfect pitstop for un café*, to visit a gallery or browse beautiful books at la librairie*, Assouline.

Watch the short video below to learn why Xavier is such un admirateur*. Or, if outdoor adventure (or après ski) is more your style, check out last month’s instalment on La Clusaz.

*to Paris | *a coffee | *the bookstore | *a fan

Le Travel Planner on La Clusaz

Next up on Le Travel Planner’s itinerary (and probably now your bucket list) is La Clusaz – a picturesque alpine village in the French Alps renowned for its stunning natural beauty and world-class skiing opportunities.

Situated in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France, La Clusaz is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers. As well as those who love to indulge in some après-ski.

Hear what Xavier has to say about this cette destination fabuleuse* in the short video below. And, in case you missed it, here’s last month’s instalment on the charmant* Cap Ferret.

*this fabulous destination | *charming