French lessons, events & trips
FRENCH LESSONS EVENTS & GIFTS
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
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
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
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.
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
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
Travelling to France? Plan on packing an extra tote for your beauty haul as you're headed to skincare-lover paradise! With cosmetics sections that rival any department store, French pharmacies are veritable treasure troves of skincare wonders where beauty buffs flock for coveted products that promise radiant, flawless, French-girl peau*.
Renowned for their minimalist approach to makeup and unwavering dedication to skincare, the French prioritise healthy, glowing complexions above all else. So, do as they do next trip and stock up on these five cult French pharmacy finds to elevate your skincare routine to new heights.
NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Dry Oil: A multi-purpose dry oil beloved by beauty enthusiasts worldwide, NUXE Huile Prodigieuse is a luxurious elixir that nourishes, hydrates and illuminates the skin and hair. Infused with precious botanical oils, this cult favourite is suitable for all skin types, delivering a radiant glow and delicious fragrance with each application.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water: Seen backstage at catwalk shows, this holy grail skincare staple is a gentle yet effective cleanser that removes la maquillage*, impurities and excess oil without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. Ideal for sensitive skin types, the dermatologist-recommended formula soothes and calms irritation, leaving the skin clean, refreshed and balanced.
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré: Loved by makeup artists, models and celebs alike, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré is a luxurious moisturiser that doubles as a primer and makeup remover. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and aloe vera, this iconic cream hydrates, softens and smooths the skin, creating the perfect canvas for makeup application while promoting long-term skin health.
A313 Vitamin A Cream: A cult classic in French skincare, A313 Vitamin A Cream is a potent retinoid treatment renowned for its transformative anti-ageing benefits. Formulated with retinyl palmitate, a gentle derivative of vitamin A, this powerhouse cream stimulates collagen production, reduces the appearance of fine lines and les rides* and refines skin texture for a youthful, radiant complexion.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5: A soothing and reparative balm for the face and body, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 is a must-have for addressing a myriad of skin concerns, from dryness and irritation to minor wounds and burns. Enriched with panthenol, the rich, dermatologist-tested formula provides immediate relief, accelerates skin regeneration and restores comfort to even the most sensible* skin types.
Happy shopping!
*skin | * makeup | *wrinkles | *sensitive
This month, Le Travel Planner Xavier Amouroux est de retour*, giving us his hot take on Cap Ferret in the South of France.
A hop, skip and a jump from Bordeaux, this laidback seaside resort is well worth a sun-soaked side trip on your next trip to France.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next trip to France, Le Travel Planner, is back with the latest instalment of his travel tips series. This time, Xavier's turning his attention to the beautiful beachside resort of Biarritz with some fabulous advice for getting the most from the region.
Hear what Xavier has to say about exploring this glamorous destination and the Basque Country in the short video below. And n’oubliez pas* to check out his tips for Bordeaux aussi*!
*don’t forget | *as well
If you’ve been coming to le nid* for a while, you’ll no doubt have heard mention of un homme français* named Xavier. Un vrai ami* of Lingua Franca, Xavier is passionate about travel, having lived and worked in Paris, Bordeaux, Copenhagen and Brisbane.
With a bespoke travel consultancy, aptly named Le Travel Planner, Xavier is just the man to turn to for a curated itinerary for your next Euro adventure. To give you a taste of his talents, we’ve teamed up with Xavier to create a series of short videos covering five fabulous French destinations.
First on the list? Bordeaux – the location of this year’s Lingua Franca summer school (alongside Paris, bien sûr*). Enjoy!
*the nest | *a French man | *A true friend | *of course
Characterised by steep, winding cobblestone streets, Romanesque churches and ancient ruins, Saint-Émilion is un charmant* Medieval village in le cœur* of the Bordeaux wine region. A must-visit for oenophiles and history buffs, the UNESCO World Heritage site takes its name from a hermetic Breton monk, Émilion, who arrived in the 8th century and was known for performing miracles.
Home to Europe’s largest monolithic church, Saint-Émilion may no longer be a place of miracles. But, as you can see, it’s still quite magical.
*a charming | *the heart
Pictures : whatoliviadid.com
As the world’s most visited city, Paris is undeniably magical. Toutefois*, it’s not the only ville* in France worth the plane fare (or TGV trip). From indulging in Michelin-starred gastronomy in Lyon to hiking in Corsica or catching rays on the Cote d’Azur, this article provides plenty of inspo for your next visit à l’étranger*.
*However | *city | *overseas
If you’ve been dreaming of buying or renting a bolthole en France*, today might just be your lucky day. A former Lingua Franca couple is looking to sell their share in a lovely holiday home in Provence!
Regarde* the description and images below and on the AirBnB listing here – the property is also available à louer*. C’est un rêve, non*?
Home in Provence
Ever dreamed of a home-away-from-home in France? Our lovely terrace house in the Vaucluse Department of Provence is available for rent! It has two bedrooms (2 queen beds and one single) so can easily accommodate a family of five for a delightful sojourn.
Our house is situated in an historic town in the lands around Avignon once owned by the Popes when they moved out of Rome and lived for most of the 14th century in Avignon. It has a medieval wall around the town, and our house is built into the wall, next to the “new gate: Le Portail Neuf”. From the top-floor balcony, there are views of Mont Ventoux, often featured in the Tour-de-France.
The town is Beaumes-de-Venise, famous for its muscat wine (often found on the dessert-wine list of Australia’s best restaurants). This lovely little town is central to a beautiful area of Provence dotted with numerous small towns with markets and many historic attractions accessible for delightful daytrips.
À louer
The house can be rented either on AirBnB for $160 AUD per night, or through the owners, Jane & Tony, long-time Lingua Franca students, for only 120 euros per week.
À vendre
The house is wholly owned by 12 Australians through an Australian company, and we own two of those twelve shares. The house is valued at approximately 240,000 euros ($AUD360,000). We have found we don’t fully utilise our two shares, so if anyone is interested in purchasing one of the shares, please contact Jane to discuss on mob: 0414 842 199 or email: aocbdv53@gmail.com
*en France | *look | *to rent | *It’s a dream, isn’t it?
La tour Eiffel*, le Louvre*, chic French femmes* in les marinières* and une pâtisserie* on every corner. These are probably some of the things you expect to see in Paris. And you certainly won’t go home disappointed. However, the city is also sure to serve up some smile (or shiver) inducing surprises – if you know where to look.
Whether you’re joining us in the City of Light in September or planning your own trip in the not-too-distant future, this article ’10 of the most unexpected things you’ll find in Paris’ is worth bookmarking.
We can’t say we recommend numero deux* (pardon the pun), but to each his own!
*The Eiffel Tower | *The Louvre | *women | *striped tops | *a pâtisserie | *number two
High above the Dordogne river, surrounding an early 19th Century château, Les Jardins de Marqueyssac are among France's listed 'Jardins Remarquable' – and the most visited gardens in South-West France. Top of any amateur topiary artist’s bucket list, these verdant green gardens were designed by a student of André Le Notre – he of Versailles fame.
Faire une promenade* along more than 6 km of paths lined with 150,000 hand-pruned, century-old boxwoods, taking in waterfalls, rock gardens and breathtaking views of the valley.
Check out this website for a mini virtual tour. We think you’ll agree, c’est assez magique*.
*Take a walk | *It’s rather magical
City of light, oui*. A gourmand’s go-to and shopper's paradise, bien sûr*. But did you know Paris also transforms into a buzzing seaside resort in summer as locals and tourists eat les glaces* and lounge in deck chairs on sandy beaches (or grassy stretches) along the Seine?
Run by the office of the Mayor of Paris, Paris Plage* first took place in 2002. The egalitarian initiative aimed to provide all city-dwellers access to a 'beachside’ vacation in summer. Including those without the means to join the annual exodus to the coast.
Initially setting up sand at just one location on the Rive Droite*, Paris Plages has grown in scale (hence it’s now plages, not plage). Taking place at three main locations – the Parc Rives de Seine, La Villette canal basin and the Trocadero gardens – it’s become a highlight of the summer calendar.
Each year, millions of visitors beat the heat under palm trees and beach umbrellas as they enjoy free music and entertainment, join in games and quench their soif*.
Which all sounds very lovely, but can you take a dip? While the Seine’s been off-limits for decades, the government promises it will be clean enough to swim in by 2025. (On verra*…)
For now, you can practise your laps in the pools at the Bassin de La Villette. Located in northeast Paris at the top of the Canal St Martin, this artificial lake is the place for boating and water sports enthusiasts.
Or, if you prefer the lure of dry land, there’s always beach volleyball at the Hôtel de Ville*.
Paris Plages 2023 runs from 9 July to 22 August. Better pack la crème solaire*.
*yes | *of course | *ice creams |*Paris Beach | *Right Bank | *thirst | *we’ll see | *City Hall |*the sunscreen
Located in the Morbihan département* on the south coast of Brittany, this breathtaking bay has it all. A popular year-round tourist destination, Baie de Quiberon* was the scene of several historic battles, including the Battle of Quiberon Bay (1759). Mais ne vous inquiétez pas* – today the slice of paradise is beaucoup plus tranquille*.
A popular destination for hikers, cyclists and nature lovers, the bay attracts hosts of tourists with its sandy beaches and charming Breton villages. And let’s not forget Quiberon’s famed niniches (sucettes*) and tinned sardines. We think you might need a bigger valise*!
Photography credit : https://www.destinationsdejulie.fr
*department | *Quiberon Bay | *But don’t worry | *Much more peaceful | *lollipops | *suitcase
Dreaming of a Christmas that’s white rather than white-hot? Maybe it’s time to start planning a festive trip to France next December. While there’s no guarantee of a blanket (or even a dusting) of neige*, there’s no shortage of Hallmark movie-worthy Marchés de Nöel* that will have you feeling the joys of the season.
Behold two lists of the best French Christmas markets to add to your itinerary. Le Figaro’s 2022 round-up is in French if you’re up for a challenge. But there’s also another option en anglais* if you’ve already checked out for the year – we can’t say we blame you!
*snow |*Christmas markets |*in English
Looking to escape les touristes à Paris* in favour of a more exotic French-speaking locale? Un voyage* to the unique island paradise of La Réunion might tick all the right boîtes*.
Located in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar, Réunion is a UNESCO-listed island famous for its active volcans*, incredible biodiversity, and fragrant, colourful cuisine.
It's a haven for adventure seekers – mais faites attention!* This très belle* destination has the dubious honour of being home to the most requin* attacks of any island.
Pictures: hellolaroux.com
the tourists in Paris | A trip | boxes | volcanoes | but be careful | very beautiful | shark
A return to travel means a return to le shopping* for many, so take note of our handy guide to French sizes to make sure your achats* don’t get lost in translation.
*shopping | *purchases