Joie de vivre French insert in International Traveller

Discover our Joie de Vivre French insert in International Traveller

 

Avoiding Déjà Vu: Explore France Beyond Paris with Joie de Vivre

France—a land of romance, art, gastronomy, and timeless beauty. While Paris often steals the spotlight, this iconic country offers so much more than the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées. With the Joie de Vivre insert, created in collaboration with International Traveller and Air France, you’re invited to uncover France’s multi-faceted charm. From glittering coastlines to historic vineyards, here’s your guide to exploring the unique treasures of France beyond its capital.

Nice Côte d’Azur: A Getaway Between Sea and Mountains

Nestled on the French Riviera, Nice is a city of sun-kissed sophistication and azure waters. Wander along the Promenade des Anglais, bask in the Mediterranean sun, and explore the old town’s vibrant markets and art galleries. For a touch of luxury, immerse yourself in the nearby resorts of Cannes and Saint-Tropez, where glamour meets exquisite French hospitality.

Must-Do Activities:

Visit the Matisse Museum to admire works by the legendary artist.

Dine on local delicacies like socca at the Cours Saleya market.

Take a day trip to the perched villages of Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Corsica Luxury Experience: Elevate Your Corsican Getaway

Corsica, the Isle of Beauty, offers a bespoke itinerary like no other. From historic locales and private beaches to quaint villages and exclusive excursions, Corsica invites you to discover its hidden treasures in unparalleled style.

Highlights:

Stroll through Ajaccio, Napoleon’s birthplace.

Unwind on secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Enjoy guided tours to secret natural wonders and historic sites.

St-Tropez Bliss: The Epitome of Elegance

St-Tropez offers a glamorous escape on the French Riviera. Known for its luxurious yachts, golden beaches, and chic boutiques, this destination is a playground for the elite and an inspiration for artists and writers.

Highlights:

Relax on the pristine beaches of Pampelonne.

Explore the charming old town with its pastel-colored houses.

Indulge in fine dining and local rosé wine.

Hotel du Couvent de Nice: A Haven of Serenity

For an unforgettable stay in Nice, the Hotel du Couvent offers a unique blend of history and modern luxury. This boutique hotel, housed in a restored convent, is a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

Why Stay Here?

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of its lush gardens.

Experience beautifully designed rooms with historical charm.

Relish gourmet breakfasts featuring local ingredients.

Nantes: An Art Lover’s and Gourmet’s Contemporary Den

Situated in western France, Nantes is the former capital of the Dukes of Brittany and the birthplace of Jules Verne. Renowned for its creativity, this vibrant city blends history, art, and gastronomy seamlessly.

Highlights:

Marvel at the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, including the famous mechanical elephant.

Explore Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a historic castle turned museum.

Savor innovative cuisine at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants.

Hot Hotels and Palaces Across France

From chic boutique hotels to grand palaces, France is home to some of the world’s most exquisite accommodations. Each property offers a unique blend of luxury, heritage, and personalized service.

Must-Stays:

Hotel Barrière Le Majestic in Cannes for cinematic glamour.

Ritz Paris for timeless elegance.

Cheval Blanc Courchevel for an alpine retreat.

Sacred Wines: Toast to Tradition

France’s sacred wines tell stories of its rich winemaking heritage. From Bordeaux to Burgundy, each region produces exceptional vintages celebrated worldwide.

Top Experiences:

Explore the vineyards of Burgundy for world-class Pinot Noir.

Discover the unique terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Taste the effervescence of champagne in Reims.

Maison Pommery: A Champagne Experience Like No Other

In the heart of Reims, the Estate of Pommery offers a journey through history and innovation. Established in 1836, this majestic estate blends the art of Champagne with exceptional craftsmanship.

Highlights:

Tour the historic cellars and learn about the Champagne-making process.

Marvel at contemporary art exhibits within the estate.

Enjoy a tasting session of Pommery’s finest cuvées.

On the Menu: A Culinary Journey Through France

From an après-ski feast at dizzying heights to a celebration of champagne, France offers endless ways to savor its culinary excellence. With Air France, dining is elevated to an art form, both on the ground and in the air.

Must-Try Experiences:

Sample fondue and raclette in the French Alps.

Relish freshly shucked oysters in Brittany.

Delight in Michelin-starred dining in Provence.

The Debut: Celebrations Old and New

France is a country of celebrations, from newly inaugurated festivals to age-old traditions. Whether it’s the reopening of historic sites or the launch of modern attractions, there’s always something exciting happening.

Upcoming Highlights:

Discover medieval pageantry at Carcassonne.

Attend contemporary art exhibitions in Lille.

Celebrate the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.

City Sojourns: Urban Escapes Across France

With a wealth of officially registered cities, choosing one for an urban getaway can be overwhelming. From old-world charm to modern art, and scenic nature sites to incredible food and wine, these cities are a great place to start.

Top Picks:

Bordeaux for wine and architecture.

Lyon for gastronomic delights.

Marseille for its vibrant multicultural vibe.

Going Au Naturel: Discover France’s Natural Wonders

While France’s man-made structures are iconic, its lesser-known natural wonders are equally breathtaking. Escape the grind and immerse yourself in the scenic marvels hiding in plain sight.

Must-See Sites:

The lavender fields of Provence.

The rugged cliffs of Étretat in Normandy.

The pristine lakes of the Jura Mountains.

Viking Cruise: Discover France by Water

Explore France from a new perspective aboard a Viking Cruise. Meandering through the country’s rivers, these journeys offer a relaxing way to see charming villages, lush vineyards, and historic landmarks.

Cruise Highlights:

Sail along the Seine, Rhône, or Garonne rivers.

Enjoy gourmet dining and curated excursions.

Experience the convenience of unpacking just once while seeing multiple destinations.

Accor Hotels: Your Home Away from Home

Whether you prefer boutique stays or luxury resorts, Accor Hotels offers accommodations across France to suit every traveler. With a focus on comfort and quality, Accor ensures a seamless experience wherever your journey takes you.

Recommended Stays:

Indulge in 5-star luxury at Sofitel properties.

Opt for charm and character at MGallery hotels.

Enjoy family-friendly amenities at Novotel.

Globus Avalon: Guided Adventures with Ease

For those who want to explore France with expert guidance, Globus Avalon offers curated tours that take the guesswork out of planning. Their itineraries blend iconic sights with hidden gems, creating a balanced and enriching experience.

Benefits:

Knowledgeable guides bring each destination to life.

Flexible options cater to different travel styles.

Hassle-free travel arrangements.

Qantas: Start Your Journey in Comfort

Your French adventure begins the moment you board your Qantas flight. As a trusted partner, Qantas ensures a seamless and comfortable journey to France, with world-class service and direct flights from Australia.

Onboard Experience:

Enjoy premium dining inspired by French cuisine.

Relax in spacious seating across all classes.

Arrive refreshed and ready to explore.

France: A Country That Welcomes You to Delve Deeper

France is more than Paris—it’s a kaleidoscope of cultures, landscapes, and experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re savoring champagne in Pommery, soaking up the sun in Nice, or exploring the creative streets of Nantes, each destination tells a unique story. With Joie de Vivre, Air France, and partners like Accor Hotels, Viking Cruises, and Qantas, your next journey to France promises to be unforgettable.

Pack your bags and embrace the French art of living. Bon voyage!