Finally my Itinerary from the BIGBLOGX made it! Here is where I’ll be while I’m in France.
Now, please fill me in on everything I need to know, see, bring, do , say, buy, etc…
The interview with Lucie will be posted soon!
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Amy says
Youre going to have so much fun! Lyon is the gastronomy capital of France, so it has some incredible food options!
Lauren Backus says
You have to visit the Musee Marmottan Monet in Paris! http://marmottan.fr/
It has Monet’s water lily paintings and is beautiful! If you get the chance you should also visit Monet’s house, the gardens are beautiful and you get to see the inspiration for the water lily paintings!
Lacey Zaiser says
In Paris theres a little pastry shop near the Bastille called Blé Sucré (near the Ledru-Rollin metro stop) that literally has THE BEST chocolate croissant I’ve ever had in my life. Also a fun little fondu restaurant called Le Refuge des Fondus up near Sacre Coeur, a little fondu restaurant that is so fun. Theres a set meal and they serve you wine in baby bottles…you sit at two long tables with all the other people in the restaurant so its a fun place to meet people! Its a little funky but a great parisian experience! And Versailles is a must while in Paris. Its so worth going, you can spend hours in the gardens just walking for miles, its really beautiful. I have some pictures on my blog from Paris from this summer and a few of the things we did 🙂
Anna says
I’ve been to that fondue place! It’s touristy but fun (and a good way to meet other people that speak English) – I recommend it as well if you have time for something like that.
My favorite day in Paris was just sitting on the lawn outside the Louve with a picnic of bread, cheese and wine. People watching is the best 🙂
Amanda says
Please go to Monets gardens while you are near Paris! I’ve always wanted to go there and I hope that you get to experience it and share it with all of us!
Laura says
Hi taralynn! I am French!
I follow your blog for a long time (I really recognized myself in your history about you talk at the beginning of your blog)!
I hope that you will like your trip in france ! good trip !!!!
( Excuse me for my errors of languages…… my English is very bad 😉 )
Kaitlyn says
I went to France for about a month a few years ago to stay with my friend who lives in Paris. I had an absolute BLAST! I had nothing but pleasant experiences there. The #1 thing I would encourage you to do is read a book called “French or Foe” by Polly Platt. She is an American who moved to France when her husband was transferred there for his job. It talks all about French culture, and it helped me more than anything else. It is mostly focused on Paris area of France rather than the southern area near Italy, where the culture can be quite different. There are some things that they do that are so different, and I would have had no idea about if I hadn’t read the book. It was recommended to me by my French language teacher who studied in France for years. Another thing I would recommend is to learn a few key phrases, like “How much does this cost?” and “Where is the ____” (bathroom, consulate, etc) Another important phrase of course is “Do you speak English?” Most people will tell you no, even if they do in fact speak English (almost everyone there does, I found). So, if you are lost or something, try a hotel or a restaurant and ask the front desk clerk or hostess. And you probably already know this with all the traveling you do, but try to wait to get euros until you get to an ATM, don’t go to a money exchange. They totally rip you off with fees. But, make sure that you have cash. The Metro is actually very easy to learn, even if you don’t know French, and you can take it to basically everywhere. Even Versailles! One thing that I wish I had done was buy art from the vendors in Montmartre. I didn’t have cash on me, so I had to learn that lesson the hard way. Oh man this is so long. I hope I don’t sound like a know-it-all, and I hope this helps, if only a little!
Jessica says
Mont St. Michel when you’re in Paris! I never made it when I was there, but I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things!!!
Jessica says
Mont St michel is not near Paris at all, unfortunately, and it’s not even on the trip that Taralynn will be doing., but yes it’s a great place to see.
Christina says
Yes it is, North of Rennes, near St.Malo. Worth seeing! 🙂
Jessica says
Versailles is my hometown you should definitely come see the Castle and the gardens it’s so beautiful. If you need a guide tell me. Versailles is a great city only 30min from Paris by train, you will love the city.
You had to taste a real croissant and pain au chocolat while in France, you will never see your american one the same way. You have to experience the french breakfast : baguette, croissant, pain au chocolat and a drink.
Paris is wonderful, just be careful in some area it’s not safe everywhere and people are kindda rude (i’m already sorry for my fellow parisians).
Strarsbourg is wonderful as well, there is some great food there and the town is beautiful.
Lyon is a good city with good food you have to eat at the restaurant “La mère Jean” they have some great Boudin Noir, there is a lot to see in this city.
If you want to meet up with some french readers while you’re in Paris tell us (me) it will be a pleasure to share our great country with you 🙂
Maya says
I will talk about Lyon, that’s where my bf lives =) First, you have to climb up to Fourvières’ cathedral, which is stunning inside and outside, plus has a magnificient view on Lyon! Then, you have to see Bellecour place, which is very famous, and the old Lyon! And for food, you must try the restaurants called “Bouchon lyonnais”, which displays authentic food, especially in the old Lyon!
I hope I will see you!
Ariel says
Not sure how long you have in Paris (there’s almost TOO much to do!) but you need a day to go to Versailles! Take the train and just soak it all up! My mom was stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany- so we’d drive to France all the time… just for groceries haha. My absolute favorite cheese is Époisses, which you can get there. I think you need to try even just a taste (once you get past the smell it’s gooey and delightful!)
Ashley says
Taralynn! I am a huge fan of your blog and have been following it for years! Your very inspirational and I hope you have a great time in France! I was wondering is there anyway I can e-mail you or contact you personally? I had some questions for you!
Beth says
Hi there,
Love your blog and super excited for you about your trip! When in Marseille you MUST go over to Aix en Provence – it’s about 32 minutes away and you will love the little town. It was one of the highlights of my Eurotrip when I was your age!
Linda @ Fit Fed and Happy says
The most important phrase:
“Où est la toilette?” 🙂
Guillaume says
“Où sont les toilettes ?” 😉
Kasey says
If you have time, you should visit the Paris Catacombs. They are totally creepy and really cool. There is a lot of history in one spot. I visited it and I am really glad I did.
Julia says
hey taralynn! 😉 i hope you have a great time in france!! It’s great that you will be at Strasbourg too, because i live in germany, which is quite close 🙂 may I suggest going to Disneyland in Paris? Sadly I missed the chance when I was there. Also you should look at the artist quarter in paris and drink lots of coffee, it’s delicious:)) <3 and last but not least I recommend buying some macaroons in the laduree-coffeehouse, they are pretty expensive but also heavenly. 😀 go for long walks and look at the the cute parcs everywhere. I also loved the eiffeltower at night and Notre dame. however, just stay safe and have great experiences!! Best wishes, Julia
Taylor says
If you get a chance, you have to go to Colmar while you’re in Strasbourg! It’s such a charming town that makes you feel like you’re in the 18th century! Definitely one of my favorite places. Strasbourg is also gorgeous even though it can be really crowded/touristy around the cathedral. The Le Petite France area is my favorite in Strasbourg, but I would try and get there before noon (if possible) because it can get really crowded too. Also, l’Ami Schutz is a fabulous restaurant on the water there (even if it’s a little pricey it’s worth it!) .Have fun! 🙂
Caroline says
I can tell you like adventures off the beaten path. This park is for you ( outskirts of Paris)
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parc_des_Buttes_Chaumont
Karasyn Lindsey says
Hi Taralynn!
I did a study away in Paris last summer. You are going to have a blast!
Honestly, the most important things to know before going abroad, are how to approach the locals! There is this weird stigma that Parisians are rude and hate Americans, but that actually couldn’t be farther from the truth! If you present yourself politely and respectfully to locals, they are some of the friendliest, and most helpful people you will ever meet!
It’s suuuuuuper important to ALWAYS greet the shopkeeper/cafe worker immediately upon entering a place of business. Simply saying “Bonjour Madame/Monsieur” will make all the difference in the world, as far as your service goes. Also, make sure to say “S’il vous plaît ” upon ordering. Sometimes it will save you money!
“Bonjour Madame/Monsieur, excusez-moi de vous déranger, mais j’ai un question/problème.” These are the magic words when asking a stranger for help! As long as you are polite, it is amazing the lengths that the people there will go to help you out!
I’m looking forward to reading all about your travels!
-Karasyn
Livi @ Eat, Pray, Work It Out says
You have to go to the Musee D’Orsay in Paris, it’s my absolute favorite!!
Jessie says
In Paris you have to go to Notre Dame 🙂
When you are in Strasbourg, maybe we can meet, it`s near the german border, where I live 🙂
Chantal says
http://www.oceanpirogue.com/image/presquile.jpg
Come here!
Olivia says
I did an amazing Eurotrip with a friend for 4 months straight 3 years ago and felt completely safe in every single city I went to except Marseille. I originally flew in there from London because it was the cheapest and google images made it look so pretty. I wish I had done more research before going there. I did not enjoy the city at all and felt very uneasy as a young, American woman traveling there. Not trying to worry you and perhaps I was not in the best area of the city or it has gotten better in recent years but I wish someone had warned me not to go there before I went. If you want a beautiful French coast- go to Nice with a day trip to Monaco.
Laura says
Hi Taralynn, how long do you have in each city? Try to go to a Pierre Hermé boutique while in Paris, in my opinion they have the best macarons in the city 🙂 You will love all the sweets and treats in France- so much to choose from and the shop-owners are proud of what they offer with good reason. Adopt a “French diet” while you are away and you won’t regret it- the bread, wine, cheese, dessert etc. is all fantastic.
Liza says
Excellent choix!
I’m from Rennes, you’ll love it!
Anna says
Hi,
I’m happy to see that you won’t stay only in Paris and go to Rennes. It’s the capital of Bretagne (it should be Nantes but unfortunately the governement is not of this opinion). There you should try “galette saucisse” and “kouign-aman”. There not really healthy food but absolutely delicious speciality. I suggest you to walk in the town, which is very cute and pleasant.
Hope you’ll enjoy your trip in France.
Mary says
Pack as light as possible! I’m not kidding when I say this!!!!! You never know when you might have to physically carry ALL of your luggage a distance without any carts, taxis, etc. handy. Also when you pack, pack items of clothing that can go with many different other items. For example, pack shirts that go with several other pants, skirts, shorts, etc. So you have several outfits out of one piece of clothing.
Katie says
“Bike About Tours” in Paris is three hours of fun, history, culture, and great site seeing that you couldn’t find on your own (http://www.bikeabouttours.com). Also, get some macaroons at Laduree.
I lived near Marseille for a year. It’s fun but can be very scary if you are wondering by yourself – keep your English speaking to a low level because those that want to take things from you will know you are not French (my friend got mugged next to me while Christmas Shopping there). If you have time, jump on the bus to Aix-en-Provence – that’s where I lived – so cute and great shopping!
sarah says
glad you to come in Strasbourg! this year, we celebrate the thousandth anniversary of our beautiful cathedrale! Hope you’ll enjoy to be there for this amazing event !
http://www.1000cathedrale.strasbourg.eu/
Basia says
I really don’t mean to be debbie downer. Europe and France are beautiful and the coffee is great, but also be prepared for some bad news.. To lay your hands on almond milk (and flour), low fat vanilla greek yoghurt, canned pumpkin and coconut oil is not that easy. You’ll have to really dig deep to find it (probably order online). Beside EVERYTHING is much more expensive than in US. Food, either you cook at home or worse – eat out costs. A lot. Also (I’m really sorry, but..) French don’t speak or don’t want to speak English. You’ll be/feel lost a lot. Other than that, it’s a fun experience. Just don’t expect everything to be wonderful and that you’re going to like everything..
Amanda says
I am not sure exactly what the bridge is called, but it is in Paris and has locks all over it. People attach a lock and throw the key in the river. I think this is referred to as “love lock”. This would be really neat to witness or even to put one on yourself for you and your family. Have a blast! Can’t wait to hear all about it!
Caroline says
This bridge is called “Pont des arts” 😉
Floriane says
We don’t have permission anymore to attach locks on Pont des arts, because it’s was too heavy, and dangerous.
http://photowall.paris.fr/social/45/stop-aux-cadenas
Caroline says
Hello Taralynn 🙂
I’m French and I live in Toulon, 45min from Marseille.
Marseille is not my favorite city in France, mind your handbag (as Paris). About sightseeing in Marseille you can visit, Notre dame de la Garde, also known as “la bonne mère”, you will have a nice view of Marseille, Parc Borely, Iles du Frioul, very nice and gorgeous. If you have enough time you can spend a day in Cassis and les calanques de Cassis. It’s amazing. If you want spend a day on the french riviera, you can take the train and go to Nice, Cannes… The train station in Marseille is called “Gare Saint Charles”.
About Paris except the classics Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysée, Montmartre and the cathedral Notre Dame de Paris, you can also go to “jardins du Luxembourg”, the gardens are beautiful.
When do you will be in Marseille?
Hope you will enjoy your trip in France and that the weather in the south will still be like today (sunny 26°C …summertime).
Michelle says
I just went to France in May! In Strasbourg, you have to take the boat river tour. It has a very interesting audio commentary track, and is not your standard boring history of the city. My boyfriend and I laughed out loud at some of the facts! It’s also relaxing.
In Paris, I recommend the Musee d’Orsay (impressionist art) which I thought was better than the Louvre. We did the Louvre on a Friday night because they have a special option on Friday nights for people under 26 to get free admission for a few hours then. It’s enough time to see the Mona Lisa and a few highlights then go do something better!
Paris also has the BEST chocolate I ever tried! It’s from Patrick Roger’s shop. Don’t miss it!! Try a croque monsieur or madame (a fancy grilled cheese type sandwich with or without en egg).
Lucie A. says
Wow, that is quite a full on itinerary! I am very jealous about Lyon and Strasbourg that I am dying to visit!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s incredible and I am so excited to explore everything!
Anais says
Hello Taralynn!
I read the Luci’s blog for a long time and i discovered you with the Big blog exchange.
I live in Strasbourg. When you will come here?
Medieval houses, european parliement, food (…) there is a lot of things to see in Strasbourg.
If you need a guide or somewhere to sleep, just tell me!
See you!
Anais from Strasbourg, France
Lyne says
Hi!!
Great I am so happy to see that!! I am living in Strasbourg!! There you can visit the Cathédrale, there are many museums as the contemporary and modern art one; Alsace is very famous for a lot of specialties : flammekueche, kuglopf, bretzel, choucroute, baeckeoffa, you can eat a piece of cheese call “munster” with a glass of gewurtztraminner wine. You can visit the beautiful neighborhood La petite France which is very cute, otherwise the Krutenau neighborhood is very great for cafés and restaurants, it’s the youth area, Mémé dans les ortilles is a great restaurant in this area; the Place Kleber is the main square. You should bring some warm clothes because it becomes cold here. I come from a little but cut and touristic city around Strasbourg call Colmar.
If you have any questions don’t hesitate to send me an email
I am a student, I am 21, if you want a city guide, or go to take a drink or meal it would be a pleasure 🙂
Laura says
Hi Taralynn, I follow your blog for quite a long time now and I’m pretty surprised to see that you’re coming to my city soon. I’m living in Rennes which is by the way, a lovely student city, and I’d be glad to help you out and give you informations about Britanny’s traditions and cool places in Rennes!
How many days are you staying there? Tell me if you need anything 🙂
Floriane says
Hello Taralyn !
I follow your blog for a long time now, and today I discover that you come in France, and particulary in my beautiful city, Strasbourg !
Don’t hesitate to contact me if you want some advice, and of course, if you need a guide !
Enjoy your trip !
Floriane
Stephanie says
Lyon is lovely. I didn’t stay there long, as that was just were my plane landed on my way to Grenoble for school, but it was still a beautiful city.
On your way from Lyon to Marseille, or vice versa, if you get a chance to try ‘gratin dauphinois,’ take it. Eat as much of it as you can. It’s so good, and a famous regional dish in the southeastern part of France, I believe (or maybe just Grenoble, I am unsure). Outside of that, I learned taking a chance on little hole-in-the-wall places nearly always paid off, in terms of how awesome the food was and how inexpensive it was. The cuts of meat are excellent, the veggies fresh and the sauces divine.
Side warning though: I saw an ad for a taco while I was there, and decided to try it. It was not like a western taco; it was a kebab with french fries on it, haha. It was still pretty good, but really threw me for a loop.
The Green Geekette says
Hi Taralynn!
I’m the french BBE winner of last year. 🙂 Your itinerary seems pretty cool! I hope you’re gonna love coming to France! You’ll see, BBE is really a life changing experience and without it, I don’t think I would be travelling in the USA for several months right now… You know, when you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, it’s too late! 🙂
Have fun and safe travel!
Claire
Maxine says
I’m going on an exchange to Marseille in January! Can’t wait to hear your suggestions on what to do there! 🙂 Have a great trip, France is beautiful!
Sofia says
Bon voyage to France.
It’s a pitty you don’t come to Toulouse. I would have enjoyed meeting you. I love your blog.
katou says
Thank you for meeting up with me in France! I had so much fun. How is your French coming along?
Phillip says
wow!
Adrian says
You are going to have so much fun in France
Sally says
wish i could have met you