France
When many people dream of their first trip to Europe, they imagine France. France is well known for its culinary traditions and history of innovation. The cities are sophisticated and the countryside offers simplicity and tranquility. France is easily one of the most well known European destinations. With notable wines, iconic landmarks and stylish locals what’s not to love about France.
France is the largest country in Western Europe (roughly about the size of Texas). Tourist flock to the cosmopolitan city of Paris and the world’s most recognized wine region of Bordeaux. It can be easy to get lost in the priceless works of art at the Louvre or the endless lavender fields of Provence. I’ve visited France quite a few times over the years and have barely touched the surface of what is there to be explored. You can read more about some of my most memorable visit to France in the most latest blog posts.
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What You Really Need to Know
France is more than just Paris. Don’t get me wrong. If this is your first trip to France, you probably don’t want to skip Paris. The glamorous streets, quaint cafe’ alluring theatre scene are not to be missed. But once you’ve completed your obligatory tourist visits to the Eiffel Tower and spent far too much money on the Champs Elysee, I encourage you to gather up your things and set off on an adventure of a lifetime through France.
Exploring Wines (even the bubbly kind)
France is known for wine. There are some 15 different designated wine regions in France and if you are a lover of wine, you should make every attempt to explore them all. Since you are unlikely to succeed in that quest, I’ll narrow down the list to the more recognizable regions.
Reims and Epernay. What is know as the finest of the bubbly wines Champagne can only come from this region of France. While other parts of the world produce sparkling wines, each country has its own designation for the sparkles that are produce in their regions. Make it a point to visit Tattinger and learn more about the Champagne Dynasty. While you’re in the area, organize a tour of Moet & Chandon.
Bordeaux. Nestled on the Southwest corner of the county against the backdrop of the Garonne River you’ll find the Bordeaux region of France. While the grapes born in this region are what bring most people to the area, don’t leave without exploring the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André and the notable Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux. And since you are there for wine take a tour of Château Balestard La Tonnelle in Saint Emilion where they have been producing wine since 1647. or Château Pape Clément which is the oldest vineyard in France.
Burgundy. Stretched along the Burgundy coast from Dijon to Lyon you will find the wine producing region of Burgundy. Along with the world renowned wines of the region, you will also find Medieval villages and a gorgeous countryside.
Alsace. Closer to Germany in the North East of France along the Rhine River, you will find the sweet white grapes that produce Reisling wine. For those of us who enjoy wines on the sweeter side, this region has what you need to satisfy your delicate palates. The capital Strasbourg has so much to offer. I loved strolling the quaint streets and found some really great food in the small alleyways. Follow the Alsace Wine Route and you won’t be disappointed.
Provence - For Amazing Fragrances
If you’ve ever wanted to craft your own signature scent, Provence is the place to do it. Located in the southeast of France bordering the Mediterranean Sea you will find this region that is definitely a treat for the senses. I’ve never seen so many lavender fields in my life. It’s no wonder fragrance houses like L’OCCITANE have factories here. I made a stop at Molinard in Grasse to create my own unique perfume. Interestingly, they record your concoction and you can order it whenever you like. Take your pick of perfumeries and let your senses go wild.
Since you are in the French Rivera, spend a few nights in Nice, get glammed up and hang out in St Tropez and when you want to walk feel like a movie star head over to Cannes.
For The Historical Perspective
Not many tourist venture off to Northern France but I would suggest you take the detour and head over to cities like Normandy to learn more about the carnage that happened here during WWII. They also have some amazing oysters in this part of the country that are hard to find anywhere else.
Off the coast but interesting nonetheless is the charming city of Lille. Here you will find some cool architecture and Flemish inspired homes in the old town.