• 22 Jan 24

  Partner News
  Going green: France’s steps to become a leading European destination for sustainable tourism

    It is clear that today we face an unprecedented ecological crisis, and that actions ...Read more
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  Going green: France’s steps to become a leading European destination for sustainable tourism - News & announcements

    It is clear that today we face an unprecedented ecological crisis, and that actions must be taken towards mitigating this crisis. The need and demand for more sustainable holidays is higher than ever. France is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by fostering an eco-conscious tourism model. This has become even more apparent since the outbreak of Covid, which has demonstrated that we must rebuild, redefine and improve tourism as we know it by placing sustainability at the heart of this sector. We also recognise that with the current economic situation and inflation, it is imperative to ensure that sustainable tourism in France is inclusive and affordable.   Although we know that, for travellers, sustainability is not currently as important as value for money, it still forms part of a much larger strategy for France: in April 2021, the French government approved the New Climate Bill which aims to support the ecological transition by helping France reach its 40% emission targets by 2030.   Transport / Railways  

  • France has an extensive, 27,000-kilometre railway network.
  • A great many destinations are accessible by train in France – and the government is increasing inter-regional connections to favour train travel within the country. The advanced railway network in France currently makes it possible to travel to Paris from Marseille in just 3 hours.
  • Trains are also relatively affordable in France, with special discounts for younger as well as senior people, lobbying closely with transport actors to keep prices low.
  • The TGV M, a new and faster TGV, will also be launched in 2024. This train will reach a top speed of 220 mph, compared with the current TGV’s 190 mph. According to French national rail operator SNCF, the TGV M will be faster, greener and even more spacious than current models. It will also be more energy efficient, promising a 32% reduction in CO2 emissions. Passengers will be able to reach destinations more quickly, allowing the intended move away from short-haul plane travel within France.
  • In an effort to reduce air travel and encourage train travel, France has been given the green light by the EU in December 2022 to ban short haul domestic flights between cities that are linked by a train journey of less than 2.5 hours. Initially this will only include three travel routes between Paris Orly and Nantes, Lyon and Bordeaux, if rail services improve more routes could consequently be added to the ban.
  • Innovation and investment in sustainable means of transport such as trains is an important component of advancing sustainable tourism in France.

    Accommodation  

  • One of Atout France’s roles is to award stars to hotels, which are reviewed every 5 years. A new procedure for awarding stars to hotels and other accommodation came into effect in April 2022. The 2022 version, which includes 243 criteria, emphasises sustainable development. There are now 27 criteria related to sustainable development (compared to 13 in the previous edition), of which 15 are mandatory: staff training in energy-saving management, water-saving and waste management measures, waste sorting for guests, environmentally friendly cleaning products, information to guests on low environmental impact transport, a means of reducing the amount of laundry and much more.
  • This new procedure is much more demanding and will further encourage establishments in the hotel sector to become key actors in the ecological transition. 87% of hotels in France will be impacted.
  • In addition to this, over 190 French hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses have been awarded the EU Ecolabel for environmental excellence, while over 640 are members of the Green Key initiative.
  • Hotel Tandem in Strasbourg is an example of an eco-friendly hotel that rejects single-use plastics, uses sustainable cleaning products and only serves seasonal, local products for meals. It is also situated next door to the train station and offers bikes for guest use.
  • Eklo hotels are a French group of green, affordable and friendly hotels which opened in 2014, combining the concept of a hotel with a youth hostel. From construction to operation, everything is designed to reduce the environmental impact of these hotels: low-consumption eco-construction, modular wooden construction, 100% green electricity, energy savers, LED bulbs and water aerators. Eklo uses half the water and electricity of a conventional hotel.
  • There are also a number of sustainable hostels in France: the Edd Hostel in Brittany is one example, centered around the concept of eco-mobility, using the hotel as a base to visit a number of destinations such as Saint-Malo, Dinan and the Mont-St-Michel without a car.
  • MooVert is a new booking site which opened in October 2022. This booking sites brings together a group of accommodation, restaurant and service providers who share common values: authenticity; respect for the environment; welcome & service. Carefully selected accommodation that is known by the network of French tourism institutions as a player in the local development and heritage of their territories. Service providers evaluated in order to help the final consumer to choose more environmentally responsible accommodation, restaurants and activities.
  • Increasing standards and ensuring regulations and checks will ensure that establishments and hotels in France are constantly thriving and have a positive environmental impact.

    Slow Tourism  

  • This increasingly popular mode of travel champions slowing down and taking time when travelling, making the journey itself part of the experience.
  • Taking the train instead of flying means you can enjoy the landscapes and the places en route to your destination: French trains are often double-decker and always well equipped, with chef-created meals and drinks available on board.
  • Once you arrive, cycling is one of France’s best-loved forms of slow tourism. The country boasts over 20,000 kilometres of equipped cycle trails and greenways, plus 3,000 road and mountain bike circuits. Several major routes cross France, such as the Vélodyssée, Vélomaritime and Loire a Vélo – the newest addition is La Seine a Vélo (2020), encouraging two-wheeled adventures from Paris to Le Havre, Normandy along the eponymous river. Corsica is also a great cycling destination with the recent addition of the 600km GT20. Look out for France’s ‘Accueil Vélo’ network of cycle-friendly accommodation and repair shops.
  • Did you know that France is home to Europe’s largest river network? Take a boat ride on France’s 6,700km of ‘Voies Navigables’ (navigable waterways) – no licence is required to rent a barge or houseboat (electric options available), and boating can be combined with cycling along the towpaths. One famous waterway is the Canal du Midi, stretching over 240km from Toulouse to Sete.
  • Horse riding and hiking are two other great ways to explore France, which has 8,000 equestrian centres and specialist agencies, and 65,000km of GR (long-distance) hiking trails.
  • The region of Pays de la Loire has additional slow tourism initiatives such as the nature trail on Ile St-Aubin, Angers.
  • The increase in popularity of slow tourism demonstrates that people are becoming more mindful of their impact on the environment and shifting their mindset away from quantity and towards quality.

    Nature  

  • France is home to 11 national parks and 54 regional parks – and it is committed to protecting the biodiversity of its forests, which currently cover 16.7 million hectares. One example is the National Forest Park in Burgundy, created in 2019 to preserve the incredible biodiversity of the area and covering almost 250 ha.
  • The French mountains cover 25% of the country, their six main massifs dotted with 5,600 local councils, villages and towns. Many initiatives are protecting the mountains and making skiing more sustainable, such as the ‘Flocon Vert’ (‘Green Snowflake’) label, which guarantees the sustainable commitment of mountain tourist destinations and is awarded to candidate resorts following a demanding audit. Resorts include Chatel, Chamonix-Mont Blanc and Chamrousse. Measures include using renewable energy sources, as at least 48 ski lift companies in the French Alps have committed to a sustainable approach to reduce their CO2 emissions. Alongside this are other biodiversity initiatives such as ‘Be part of the mountain’, a scheme offering workshops, naturalist observation points and educational approaches in the Vanoise National Park and other regional parks.
  • In response to climate change, the French mountains are also significantly developing their summer activities to allow and encourage year-round visitors.

    Culture & Heritage  

  • Marseille’s Musée Subaquatique (Underwater Museum) opened in 2020, one of its core missions to monitor scientific development and contribute knowledge of the marine environment and marine biodiversity. This initiative also aims to raise awareness on sustainability and the current state of our oceans.
  • Bordeaux is the European Capital of Smart Tourism for 2022, an award that recognises outstanding achievements in cities across four categories: sustainability, accessibility, digitalisation and cultural heritage. Bordeaux pushes sustainable development through reducing carbon footprints and strengthening the promotion of an alternative tourist offering based on culture and nature activities in the metropolitan area. Bordeaux’s Maison Citoyenne provides access to resources on sustainable development through exhibitions and workshops.
  • Grenoble was named European Green Capital for 2022, an award first given to a French city in 2013, when the winner was Nantes.
  • NAUSICAA, the French national sea centre in Boulogne-sur-Mer, it is a unique centre for the discovery of the environment focusing on the relationship between man and the sea. Its main goal is to raise public awareness of the need for better ocean management and the effects of not doing so.
  • To understand our planet better and how it works, travel not only to the heart of our solar system but also through the whole universe in the largest planetarium in France at the Theme Park Vulcania in Auvergne! Its immersive dome, actually the largest in France, (22 meters in diameter), offers a unique experience in Space with films as well as animated sessions with our scientific team. The 4 educational rooms located in the same building host workshops for young explorers of Vulcania and school groups. The opening is scheduled in Spring 2023 right at the heart of the Chaîne des Puys and its 80 volcanoes, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2018.
  • Exhibitions and other cultural elements currently available in France can act as great mediums to educate visitors on the current position of our planet and showcase the measures being taken to ensure that future generations can thrive.

    Flagship Events 2023/2024  

  • France 2023 (The Rugby World Cup) and World Rugby confirmed their mutual ambition to raise the existing standards for international sporting events in terms of social responsibility, inclusion and sustainable development. Key engagements include acting for a sustainable and circular economy, investing in education, reducing impact on the environment and fostering inclusion and accessibility for all. The tournament will also be the first international sporting event to offer an online platform for sustainable transport, accessible to all fans. Recycled materials will also be used for the medals and benches.
  • Similarly, the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris will be unlike any other Games in history in their eco-conscious approach, encouraging energy conservation, innovation and creativity. They will use 100% renewable energy, make use of 95% of existing venues – such as Versailles for equestrian events and the Champ de Mars (beneath the Eiffel Tower) for beach volleyball – and track their carbon footprint every step of the way.
  • Placing sustainability at the heart of major international events is important, not only in limiting France’s own environmental impact but also in setting a precedent for future events and encouraging other countries to follow suit.

    Art de Vivre & Gastronomy  

  • The Michelin Green Star was introduced in 2020, an annual award holding restaurants accountable to their ethical and environmental standards, and working with sustainable producers and suppliers to avoid waste and reduce plastic and other non-recyclable materials from their supply chain. There are currently 291 Michelin Green Star establishments worldwide, with 82 based in France. One example is the Fleur de Loire in the Loire Valley, whose approach champions total respect for the environment.
  • Urban farms are a growing phenomenon in France, especially in Paris, where more and more are opening each year and supply a number of restaurants in the capital. The rooftop of Paris’ Centre Beaugrenelle is set to become an urban farm, allowing visitors to discover more local, sustainable agriculture to demonstrate how a city can respond to the need for more eco-friendly initiatives. Wesh Grow is the driving force behind the farm’s creation, aiming to give new life to car parks and rooftops through urban agriculture projects. They currently supply over 500 restaurants with fresh, local produce.
  • In an effort to move towards a zero waste society, as of 1st January 2023 France will now ban single use restaurant tableware in fast food restaurants. This new regulation will have a significant impact on a number of chains such as McDonalds, Burger King and Starbucks. This new law has been hailed a “complete paradigm shift” for the sector, given that the fast food industry produces a considerable amount of waste.
  • The ‘Farm to Fork’ concept, along with zero waste, are not new – but in a world in which we regularly eat out-of-season produce and throw away enormous amounts of food, reclaiming these more traditional, simple ways of living is crucial. Sustainability is not always about reinventing the wheel, but rather looking to the past for more sustainable practices that may have been forgotten.
  • The wine industry has been badly impacted by environmental changes and the wine industry is taking steps to adapt – in August 2021, it set up a national strategy to safeguard the vineyards. One way is by reintroducing forgotten varieties of grapes that are more tolerant to droughts and adapt well to the mountains. France has around 400 grape varieties, but it uses barely a third of them – forgotten varieties include Jacquère and Mondeuse Noire. Organic wines are becoming increasingly popular in France, with more vineyards in France turning to organic production. In 2020, organic wine production increased by 22% compared to the previous year. Currently, organic wine represents around 4.7% of wine consumed in France.

    The Atout France Evergreen Brunch at Omved Gardens, London: 27 September 2022

  

  As part of The Great Big Green Week 2022, coinciding with World Tourism Day and in the context of our #ExploreFrance pan-European campaign, Atout France UK was delighted host an intimate, exclusive brunch event on green travel and sustainability in France.   Our venue, Omved Gardens, is an urban greenscape, exhibition space and food project off the beaten track in Highgate, London. The event incorporated a tour of the garden and a workshop on fermenting with resident French chef Jo March, followed by a brunch of dishes using the garden’s harvest. The attending journalists were presented with the varied steps France is taking to go green and become one of the leading European countries for sustainable tourism.  

  

  

• 22 Jan 24

  Partner News
  A century after hosting its last Olympic Games, Paris 2024 will revive the Olympic Torch with a visionary flame!

    With Paris 2024 promising to deliver sustainable and socially responsible Games in line with ...Read more
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  A century after hosting its last Olympic Games, Paris 2024 will revive the Olympic Torch with a visionary flame! - News & announcements

    With Paris 2024 promising to deliver sustainable and socially responsible Games in line with the Olympic Agenda 2020 and the IOC’s New Norm, these are set to be the greenest Olympics Games in history! Paris 2024 will adopt an eco-conscious approach, encouraging energy conservation, innovation and creativity. Through its Legacy and Sustainability Plan for the Games, Paris 2024 pledges to halve the emissions arising in relation to the Games, while offsetting more CO₂ emissions than they will generate. This strategy will deliver an ambitious, spectacular, universal event that is more responsible, more sustainable, more united and more inclusive. The Legacy and Sustainability Plan provides the guidelines and framework for every decision being made when it comes to the Games, such as the venues being used, transportation, catering and much more.   These Games also aim to keep in touch with the times and inspire new audiences through sports that are engaging, accessible and inclusive. Taking place exactly 100 years after the last time France hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 1924, Paris 2024 seeks to celebrate sports and deliver exceptional Games whilst simultaneously responding to the current challenges we face.   Highlights  

  • The strategy that will revolutionise the Games
  • Transforming famous Parisian landmarks into sporting arenas
  • An Olympic Village designed with athletes and the planet in mind
  • Environmentally friendly modes of transportation to reach the Games
  • Sustainable and zero-waste catering to halve the carbon footprint of meals
  • Games wide open

    The strategy that will revolutionise the Games   The Legacy and Sustainability Plan guides every decision being taken at Paris 2024. This strategy seeks to promote and take advantage of what makes the Games unique from the event’s capacity to bring people together and shine a spotlight on outstanding initiatives and practices. This plan was established in 2017 and it’s aims go beyond 2024. The strategy is made up of 6 pillars which focus on two principal goals:  

  1. Delivering Games that can be held up as an inspiring example both environmentally and socially.
  2. Leave a strong social and environmental legacy that harnesses sport to benefit individuals, society and the planet.

    Delivering eco-responsible Games that harness sustainable solutions is one of the key pillars of this strategy. This pillar is based on the idea that the conventional Games model was no longer fit for its purpose and would not have allowed France to meet its climate commitments. As a result, Paris 2024 has undertaken a commitment to align with the objectives of the IOC’s Olympic Agenda 2020. Examples of this includes the decision to organise the first edition of the Games in line with the Paris Agreement by halving the event’s greenhouse emissions and guarantying carbon neutrality. Further examples include to deliver an edition of the Games that can be held up as an inspiring example in terms of circular economy and biodiversity.   This commitment binds Paris 2024 along with its stakeholders to take decisions accordingly to this goal. This translates into: the supply of renewable electricity during the Games, sustainable catering, a zero-waste target for the event, a fleet of clean vehicles to transport the Olympic and Paralympic family, competition venues spectators can reach using public and environmentally friendly means of transport, the integration of circular economy principles into permanent and temporary constructions, and the deployment of sustainable technology.   Transforming famous Parisian landmarks into sporting arenas  

  • The sporting arenas are key to ensure successful games, in order to meet the aim of halving carbon emissions, Paris 2024 will see its famous monuments and sights transformed for the Olympic Games to host an array of tournaments and events across the city.
  • Firstly, the Games will use 100% renewable energy to power the Games and the Organising Committee’s headquarters.
  • The Games will also use 95% of existing venues or temporary venues as a means to minimise the environmental impact. By doing so Paris 2024 is able to significantly reduce the carbon footprint as well as put a spotlight on to the wealth of French architecture by transforming some of Paris’ infamous landmarks into sporting arenas. For instance, Le Chateaux de Versailles will be used for the equestrian events, similarly the Champ de Mars (beneath the Eiffel Tower) will be used for beach volleyball. Moreover, the Paris Expo Center at Porte de Versailles in the 15^th will be transformed for table tennis and handball tournaments, Roland Garros will be used for the tennis tournaments, Le Grand Palais will also be used for fencing and taekwondo events.
  • In terms of the venues that will be built low-carbon construction and retrofits methods and materials will be used, one example includes SOLIDEO a bioclimatic design of structures using bio-sourced materials whenever feasible. This technique takes the structure repurposing principle further.
  • With the River Seine being at the heart of Paris 2024 particularly with the opening ceremony taking place on along 6km of the Seine, the French capital is determined to clean up the River Seine and aims to open it to the general public for swimming from 2025.
  • Paris 2024 will also be able to track their carbon footprint every step of the way and ensure that the target set are met.

  

      An Olympic Village designed with athletes and the planet in mind  

  • For the Olympic Village currently being built in Saint-Denis in the northern suburbs of Paris, low carbon materials and methods will be used in order to halves the carbon emissions. This includes:
  • Using 94% recycled materials.
  • A special construction process that emits half the carbon of typical processes.
  • New architectural techniques such as wooden buildings, flexible structures, internal-external air quality, and low-carbon emissions concrete. For instance, the cement producer Ecocem will provide its new ultra-low carbon cement for the project. This alternative to traditional cement will significantly reduce the carbon footprint.
  • The aquatics centre will be constructed using bio-based building materials only, with a timber structure and roof frame; it will be covered with solar panels and serve as a solar farm.
  • Once the Games are over the Olympic Village will be used as offices and flats in Saint-Denis. Putting the spotlight on Saint-Denis will also act as a means to regenerate attraction to this suburb of Paris and help visitors to see the area as welcoming, diverse and culturally rich.

   

  

      Environmentally friendly modes of transportation to reach the Games  

  • Given that millions of spectators will attend the Games and 10,500 athletes will participate, it is crucial to ensure that the means of transportation available are in line with the sustainability principle of the Paris 2024 Games.
  • The Olympic Torch will make the journey from Greece to Fance via boat to respect the sustainability principles set for the Olympics.
  • A fleet of clean vehicles will transport the Olympic and Paralympic family.
  • Spectators will be able to reach the competition venue using public and environmentally friendly means of transportation, this is overseen by Île-de France Mobilités in the Greater Paris Region, in the form of buses, metro and RER lines and trams.
  • Paris is also set to open 55 kilometres of additional cycling lanes for the 2024 Olympics. This will allow spectators to cycle from the city centre to sporting sites at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
  • Using clean energy to power the vehicles transporting the athletes, and making the Games accessible via public transport or other environmentally friendly modes of transportation such as cycling will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the Games.

   

  

      Sustainable and zero-waste catering to halve the carbon footprint of meals  

  • With 13 million meals served during the Olympic and Paralympic Games it is clear that sustainable and zero-waste catering is key.
  • Twice as many plant-based foods per meal, with 100% certified food to guarantee the origin and quality of the products (80% of the supply from France, 25% of which will be sourced within 250 kilometres of the competition sites, 100% responsible fishing, 100% French dairy products, etc.).
  • The objective of zero-waste will be achieved by sizing quantities, designing recipes that reduce the risk of waste and recycling 100% of non-consumed food.
  • Half the amount of single-use plastic will be used in catering, in response to high expectations, particularly from athletes and consumers, to reduce plastic pollution. This will be achieved by reusing 100% of the tableware for on-site catering, through the provision of returnable containers and by collecting and recycling 100% of the plastic that could not be avoided.
  • Moreover, 100% of the equipment and infrastructure used for catering during the Games will be reused. The Paris 2024 Games anticipate the reuse of tableware, such as cutlery and plates, as well as catering facilities, most of which will be in existing structures. For instance, catering in the Athletes’ Village will be provided in the Cité du Cinéma (a giant film studio complex in Saint Denis). In total, these targets will halve the average carbon footprint of a meal during the Games.

   

  

      Games wide open  

  • Inclusivity will be present at every level of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Starting with the relaying of the Olympic Torch whereby the selection criterion will be inclusive by ensuring a diverse selection of people whether it be in terms of disabilities or other minorities.
  • The Opening Olympic Ceremony will break tradition by taking place in the heart of Paris with the Seine as a backdrop along with Paris cultural heritage, for the first time this ceremony will be accessible to over 600,000 spectators.
  • Inclusivity does not stop there as for the first time in the history of the Games, the public will have the opportunity to take part in the ‘Paris 2024 Mass Participation Marathon’, whereby participants will be able to take part in the event in the same conditions as those experienced by Olympic athletes.
  • Moreover, the Games will use immersive technology such as virtual reality and connected sports to unable people around the globe to take on the best international athletes.
  • Paris 2024 is also launching a charitable ticketing scheme in partnership with the charity ‘Secours Populaire’ whereby everyone who buys tickets for the Games will have the opportunity to donate 2 euros to enable people living in low-income households to have the opportunity to attend the Games.
  • It is clear that the official slogan of the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games ‘’Games Wide Open’’ further reiterates that inclusivity and diversity are to be at the heart of the Paris 2024 Games.

   

  

      The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be unlike any other Games, Paris 2024 will make sure to revive the Olympic Torch with a visionary flame! With its commitments to making the Games more sustainable and inclusive, Paris 2024 aims to set a precedent not only for future Olympic Games but international sporting events in general. Highlighting the need and importance to adapt and respond to the current challenges we face.   Find out more about the steps that France is taking to go green here: Going green: France’s steps to become a leading European destination for sustainable tourism (franceuncovered.com)

• 19 Jan 24

  Expert Hub
  A Feast for the Senses: Must-See Places and Culinary Delights in France

    France, a country synonymous with romance, art, and gastronomy, is a treasure trove of ...Read more
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  A Feast for the Senses: Must-See Places and Culinary Delights in France - News & announcements

    France, a country synonymous with romance, art, and gastronomy, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. From iconic landmarks to culinary delights, every corner of this enchanting nation beckons travelers with its unique charm. In this guide, we'll unravel the must-see places in France, along with a delectable journey through its culinary landscape.    

  1. Paris: The City of Lights

    No exploration of France is complete without a visit to the City of Lights – Paris. Begin your journey at the iconic Eiffel Tower, where panoramic views of the city unfold. Stroll along the Seine River, crossing charming bridges like Pont Alexandre III, and immerse yourself in the artistic ambiance of Montmartre, home to the renowned Sacré-Cœur Basilica.   Indulge your artistic sensibilities at the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa, and the Musée d'Orsay, housing an impressive collection of impressionist masterpieces. For a taste of Parisian chic, explore the haute couture boutiques along Avenue Montaigne.   Eat/Drink: Treat your palate to classic French cuisine at a boulangerie for freshly baked croissants, or savor escargot and coq au vin at a traditional bistro. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of exquisite Bordeaux or a flute of Champagne.    

  2. Provence: A Tapestry of Lavender Fields and Roman Ruins

    The picturesque region of Provence, with its rolling vineyards and vibrant lavender fields, is a visual delight. Visit the ancient Roman amphitheater in Arles and wander through the cobblestone streets of Avignon, home to the Palais des Papes.   For a sensory experience, explore the fragrant Lavender Route in the Luberon region, where the vibrant purple fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Take a leisurely drive through the Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Europe," and soak in the breathtaking scenery.   Eat/Drink: Sample the local flavors with ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade. Pair your meal with a crisp glass of rosé, a specialty of the region.    

  3. The French Riviera: Glamour and Seaside Splendor

    The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is synonymous with glamour and seaside luxury. Explore the vibrant city of Nice, with its Promenade des Anglais and colorful Old Town. Visit the medieval village of Eze, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.   Indulge in the glitz and glamour of Monaco, home to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. Relax on the glamorous beaches of Saint-Tropez or sip a cocktail at a seaside café in Cannes.   Eat/Drink: Dive into the Mediterranean cuisine with a plate of bouillabaisse or salade niçoise. Enjoy a glass of local rosé as you bask in the Riviera's sun-kissed ambiance.    

  4. Normandy: A Tapestry of History and Culinary Delights

    Normandy, with its charming countryside and historic significance, offers a unique blend of experiences. Explore the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island, and visit the historic D-Day landing beaches.   Savor the flavors of Normandy with its renowned Camembert cheese, apple orchards, and the decadent Norman pastries. Take a scenic drive along the Route du Cidre, sampling local ciders and Calvados.   Eat/Drink: Delight your taste buds with creamy Camembert, apple tarts, and a warm serving of moules marinières. Pair your meal with a glass of local cider or a sip of Calvados.    

  5. Bordeaux: A Wine Lover's Paradise

    For wine enthusiasts, Bordeaux is a pilgrimage to the heart of French viticulture. Explore the historic vineyards of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, and visit the impressive Cité du Vin, a museum dedicated to the history of wine.   Stroll along the elegant boulevards of Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savor the beauty of the Place de la Bourse. Take a wine-tasting journey through the Médoc and Graves regions, where some of the world's finest wines are produced.   Eat/Drink: Pair your Bordeaux wine with local delicacies such as entrecôte bordelaise or canelé, a sweet pastry with a caramelized crust.    

  6. Lyon: The Gastronomic Capital of France

    End your French sojourn in Lyon, the undisputed gastronomic capital of the country. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and savor the beauty of the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.   Embark on a culinary adventure in the traboules, hidden passageways that connect the city's buildings. Lyon's traditional bouchons offer a taste of authentic Lyonnais cuisine, featuring dishes such as coq au vin and quenelles.   Eat/Drink: Indulge in Lyonnais specialties like boudin noir, salade lyonnaise, and the decadent praline tart. Pair your meal with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine.     In Conclusion: A French Odyssey of Sights and Flavors   France, with its diverse regions and culinary wonders, promises a journey that engages all the senses. From the iconic landmarks of Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, every corner tells a story of history, culture, and gastronomic excellence. So, embark on a French odyssey, where every vista and every bite unveils the timeless allure of this captivating nation. Bon voyage!

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