Best Things About France

France… the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Why is it we love France so much? What makes it so great? There are plenty of other great countries to visit in Europe, but what sets France apart? Is it the food, the great weather, or the stunning scenery? There are many things that make it what it is. Here are just a few.

1. Food

No doubt the food is one of the first things that people say when asked about things that they love about France. The French have mastered many techniques to provide wonderful flavor such as flambéing, braising, poaching, and sauteing. Delicious bread, all kinds of tasty cheeses, and a number of pastries to choose from anywhere you go make for perfect treats. The best red wine in the world will complete any meal. We haven’t even talked about baguettes, bouillabaisse, oeufs en meurette, religieuse au chocolat, and cassoulet. Plan on gaining a few pounds in France. If you don’t, you didn’t do it right.

2. Scenery

France is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. From beautiful beaches to vineyards and lavender pastures, it has a little bit of everything. The Mediterranean coast of southeastern France, known as the French Riviera, is home to some breathtaking coastal villages and towns. Toulon, Frejus, and Cannes are a few places you will want to be sure to see. Once you’ve adequately enjoyed your time by the water, head inland to see Provence. Here you will find the most incredible fields, pastures, towns, and buildings that you have ever seen.

3. Style

The old French styles that just scream France are a dream. The first thing I think of is some shutters over the doors and windows. Whether they are varnished wood, a pale blue, or a vibrant yellow, shutters add something special to any building. The wrought-iron balconies are very popular and have made their way to other cities such as New Orleans. On the interior, elk European mounts and globe strung lights create the same feeling that you get looking at the shutters on the outside.

4. Festivals

The French find a way to celebrate just about anything. Some of their festivals have rich meaning and others don’t. The Berck Sur Mer Kite Festival where more than half a million spectators have come to watch a display of kites fly over the seaside town. The Menton Lemon Festival is held to celebrate all things citrus. The Festival Medieval de Sedan is held every May at the largest medieval castle in Europe to revive the spirit of the middle ages with thrilling jousting tournaments. And lastly, the biggest and most important festival on the French calendar is Bastille Day, the day that the French celebrate the fall of the Bastille on July 14, 1789. The list could go on, the French love to celebrate. Whenever you find yourself in France, be sure to check the calendar for the next big festival, it probably is pretty soon.

5. The unexpected

Each time I have gone to France I have seen something new. Whether it’s the largest block of cheese you have ever seen, antler chandeliers, or a unique painting you will never be disappointed traveling around the great country.

6. People

No matter what you have heard about the French people, they are great. They are not as outwardly friendly as other people around the world but once you have connected with them, they will do all they can to make you feel at home.

Greet people properly, eat like you mean it, and have the time of your life. There is no place like France.