France: La Vie en Rose Online
Whatever you deem necessary to an unforgettable French holiday, you can find on the Web. Book your flight and a place to stay, research a world-class restaurant or charming French city, and let the Web make your vacation dreams a reality. France has something to suit nearly any interest, so you can wine and dine, laze on a beach, hike and cycle across the quaint countryside, or shop your way through Paris. The choice is yours.
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What they maintain is simple yet coveted: the French insist that life's finer things, whether stately Bordeaux or delicate soufflé, are woven into everyday life. Accordingly, the days feel a bit less like days here. From vibrant Paris to idyllic Provence, France seems to effortlessly waft through hours and seasons. Whether you cross Burgundy on a bicycle or indulge in culinary delicacies at a Loire Valley chateau, you will surely find France intoxicating.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Though there are a plenty of options when traveling to France, the Web provides enough specific information to help you put together the perfect package to suit your interests and budget.
- France often conjures up images of chic cafés, haute couture, haughty wine sipping, and luxury yachts, but it also caters to adventurous souls and nature-lovers looking for an active getaway. You can experience France however you'd like to, and the Web makes it easy to plan an individualized getaway.
- For a collection of France travelogues that may provide inspiration when planning your trip, try Travelers Tales France, edited by James O'Reilly, Larry Habegger, and Sean O'Reilly.
Dulcinea's Picks
For an overview of what to do in France ...
FrenchEntrée is perfect if you are looking for a specific genre of French travel. Among a list of "Holiday Options" at the top of the page are "Fishing" and the ever-popular "Foodie." Lively feature articles and reviews of vacation packages set FrenchEntrée apart, as do the knowledgeable editors, whose insider tips are present in several sections.
FranceGuide , the official Web site of the country's government tourist office, is a worthy starting point. The "Destinations" section features interactive maps of everything from cities and regions to spas and golf courses. Troll "Special Interests" for links to niche vacation packages. A thorough "Practical Info" section should quell any worries over currency and climate, and includes a list of French government agencies in the United States.
France Today is a print magazine with an online version full of travel inspiration via insightful insider articles and gorgeous photography. The site is a celebration of French culture, presenting the country's best art, design, music, food and wine in an elegant, easy-to-browse format. Consult the event calendar and Editor's Picks for ideas, and peruse the Travel and Culture sections to whet your palette before you depart.
Concierge.com , a sister site of Condé Nast Traveler, adds eye candy to make articles even more enticing. Take a virtual video tour of Paris and watch photo slideshows of several cities to whet your appetite (though pop-up ads are a bit distracting). If you're new to France, consult the "Fact Sheet" and the succinct "Why Go?" boxes introducing each locale. The usual hotel/eatery/attraction recommendations are provided, with particular emphasis on cuisine. You'll even find a two-day Paris itinerary given by world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse.
Away.com works for travelers who are low on planning time. Select a city, then book the flight and hotel (or villa) of your choosing. Peruse the Frommer's hotel reviews and, if you've got a moment to spare, explore feature articles (under "Trip Ideas" on the left navigation bar) courtesy of GORP and Outside Magazine for insider scoops, like skating in Paris at night.
For cities or attractions of interest ...
Nations Online provides links to official Web sites of French cities, which often help vacation-goers plan their stay, and points out little-known festivals and reasons to visit. The individual city sites are often in French but have English-language options as well; many times a British or American flag will provide the English version.
Fodor's provides links to French city destination guides touting quirky anecdotes such as "Hemingway's Paris" and "How to Eat Sea Urchin in Provence." Each destination guide offers "Smart Travel Tips" for suggestions on getting around in each location. Also link to reviews of museums, theme parks, restaurants, and more.
France Monthly is a free online newsletter with a colorful, fun format; sign up to receive it via e-mail, or browse the archived articles to find topics of interest. Click on photo icons to link to cities and attractions, which are highlighted in articles with detailed historical background. The e-mail version of the newsletter includes a French recipe in each issue.
ForbesTraveler.com takes a luxurious look at France with destination guides to Paris, Lyon, Provence, and Cote d’Azur. Use the interactive map to select your desired location, then troll the overview portion of each guide for suggested attractions, and to learn what is "overrated" and "underrated" in each locale. Separate sections touting recommended hotels, restaurants, attractions, nightlife spots, and shopping areas are included, so you'll know which fragrant jardin to include in your itinerary. Each guide also links to SideStep, where you can book flights and accommodation. Forbes also grants you first-class access to the world’s loveliest “Destination Wineries.” This feature article and photo slide show spotlights 10 favorites, including five in France, suggested by top New York City sommeliers.
Frommer's travel guides are typically thorough and straightforward, without extra flash. This clean style is helpful when sifting through the 200 annual festivals and attractions on this list. Get event summaries, locations, dates, and links to official festival Web sites.
Rick Steves is a Europe expert, and offers a selection of articles on travel in France. He provides practical information without sacrificing compelling narrative. Take advantage of Rick's audio walking tours of Paris, or choose from two itineraries: "France in 22 Days" or "Paris in 1 to 7 Days."
If you're going to Paris ...
TimeOut Paris writers have lived in Paris for years, and it shows. Up-to-the-moment, unique tidbits, such as where to find the best used books and vinyl, make a close reading worthwhile.
Paris Notes is a newsletter devoted to the city that offers free access to content on its site, including a thorough "Paris for Beginners" section (scroll down a bit). "Hidden Paris" reveals unusual sculptures and where to get the best ice cream and tarts in the city. A shopping guide, an historical timeline, and a guide to Parisian French round out the offerings.
TripAdvisor pulls you in with its "See France" video gallery. The six-part "A Postcard from Paris" series offers a refreshing depiction of the City of Lights, sans sugar coating.
The Paris Traveler is a blog devoted to Parisian culture. This entry shows you how to shop like a local at 10 Paris street markets. Listings include descriptions, photos, hours of operation, and locations.
Who Knew?
La Maison du Chocolat is a Paris shop that has been credited with introducing Americans to high-end chocolate. Two other Paris chocolatiers of note, Jean-Paul Hevin and Michel Chaudun, are featured in this ForbesTraveler.com list of the World’s Best Chocolate Shops. To try your hand at truffles, consider enrolling at Ecole du Grand Chocolat, which offers chocolatier classes near Lyon.
Travel Requirements for France
France has implemented a homeland security system called "Vigipirate Renforce." Travelers ... read more »
Getting to France
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France Hotels
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Getting Around in France
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France Travel Blogs and Forums
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