I’m Jan, an avid runner from Toronto, Canada (running in French races, of course) and recently retired Principal with careers in advertising and education. I have always enjoyed learning, researching, helping people, and writing and have now discovered a way to combine all of these passions with my love of France.

I’ve travelled to France more than 24 times and my friends and family would often ask me to help them plan their trips. So I’ve been able to save them time and money travelling there. And, as I had done so many of the things mentioned in tour books I love to share my  unique experiences with them because today, the best memories of trips are not from one’s purchases, but from their experiences.

ABarcelona: Can I rent a car in Barcelona and drive to France and Italy with it

I actually wanted to do that a few years ago, but discovered the cost to pick up in Barcelona and drop off in France was over $500, so instead, I took the train from Paris to Barcelona, spent time there, took the train from Barcelona to Perpignan, France and picked up a... See More

AFrance: Self drive itinerary Lyon - Menton

As you'll have a car, you really should visit the hilltop villages in Provence​. My favourite is Gordes​. There are so many beautiful towns to visit​, such as Saint-Remy-de-Provence​ and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue​.... See More

AParis: A month in Paris

Hi Jeffery: You mention that you want to have a month in Paris​where you can meet people. I don't think Paris is the best choice. I love it and travel there often, but Paris is a big city and very impersonal. You may have more difficulty getting... See More

AParis: Can we see Paris in a day?

Yes, technically you could see Paris in a day; however, if it's your first time, you'll be missing SO much. If you could, then DO stay for a day and a half. I recently wrote a post on what to do for 3 days. It might help. Also check out the Top sites in Paris and... See More

QBordeaux: New Year's Eve Ideas

Any suggestions for how/where to spend New Year's Eve in Bordeaux, France? Even a good restaurant? See More

AFrance: Annecy to Bilbao: Where to stop on the way?

Depending on your route, I really liked Lyon​, Avignon​, and Montpellier​. I visited Bordeaux and Carcassonne and especially liked Carcassonne. Guess it all depends on your route. Just south of Bordeaux is Biarritz​.... See More

QFrance: Looking for suggestions for 2 nights before I fly home from Lyon

Looking for suggestions: I'm off to France and Switzerland in July. I'll be staying in the French Alps and then Switzerland. I'm looking for somewhere new to visit IN FRANCE based on this: I have 2 nights after Switzerland (just south of Montreux) before I fly... See More

QWhere to do hiking in France

I would like to do some hiking in France in July. Ideally I would do a self-catered vacation (take care of my own meals) but would prefer to take guided day hikes as i am a novice. I can do a trail on my own for a few days; but if I go up really high I would like... See More

ASouthern France: 9 day Road trip from Paris-Marseille

As you will be passing by Avignon and the Provence area, I highly suggest you visit some of the small hilltop villages, such as Gordes​ and Menerbes​. Don't miss going to the markets (especially L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue​).... See More

ASwitzerland: I need help with my trip!

A number of years ago my friend and I flew to Geneva​, rented a car and drove to Interlaken​ for a few nights. I had been there before but my friend had not. We then went to Bern​Bern for a few nights and then to... See More