A Local’s Guide: Exciting Things to Do in France
Being French compelled me to embrace the history and culture of my country of birth, conveying it through forms of art or literature. I translate this to my medical practice–healthy living, anti-aging, and hormones as my central focus highlights the significance of natural beauty; our body serving as a canvas that reflects its owner. When people hear about France, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the Eiffel Tower. It serves as the icon of Paris and represents the symbol of love due to the thousands of marriage proposals witnessed by the elegant tower every year. Something that I have been far too familiar with but still delights me every time. Aside from that, France offers other places and experiences that deserve a spotlight–indulging in the true French culture that highlights the reality of living like a local.
Stroll through the Charming Old Quarters of Paris
The quarters of Paris are the historic yet charming areas of Paris. These are the local neighborhoods that easily give off that medieval Paris ambiance; The Quartier Latin, the Île Saint-Louis, and Le Marais.
The Quartier Latin is known as the traditional student quarter given that it holds Sorbonne and Pantheon. This is actually where I walked on a daily basis to attend classes during my first years of medical school near the Odeon; it is still one of my favorite places to wander in Paris. The narrow pedestrian streets are filled with cafés and restaurants. Vibrant boulevards are a classic, particularly the Boulevard Saint Michel, known as the Boul’Mich, has bookshops, cinemas, and other shops. Île de la Cité is the historic heart of Paris. From the Pont Saint-Louis bridge, it will lead you to another island in the Seine River, the Île Saint-Louis, an area brimming with antique charm. You may roam around the pedestrian streets as you discover small French boutiques on the Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île. When in this area, try not to miss out on Eglise Saint-Louis en l’Île, a beautiful Baroque church that was dedicated to Saint Louis (King Louis IX). Le Marais is a chic residential area that has narrow streets. You will find Pompidou Centre, housing modern and contemporary art in Europe. Despite its chic atmosphere, there are also a number of old mansions and palaces in this area.
Bike around Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a city in France famous for its wine. It is a wine-growing region that is filled with alluring sceneries due to its vineyards, lavish castles, and old-fashioned villages. According to Alexander (2021), “A favorite cycling route from Bordeaux is the Roger Lapébie bike path in the Entre-Deux-Mer region, an area appreciated for its lush natural landscape. Part of this route runs along the tranquil tree-lined Canal de Deux Mers. After about 20 kilometers from Bordeaux, the Roger Lapébie path leads to Créon, an interesting medieval town that was once entirely fortified.” The whole bike ride may lead you to a picturesque medieval village, captivating old castle awaits, and gastronomical village. Most definitely a bike tour that will take you to different eras that display its culture and history. And, if you have time, do not mis the drive to visit Eugenie-Les Bains, the small hot springs water village where I used to work as the spa medical director for several years before moving to the Unites States. You will find this place “magic”, especially if you can have dinner at the 3-Michelin-star restaurant where our famous chef Michel Guerard exalts the great French tradition combining history, nature and the thrilling adventure of culinary tradition.
Watch Outdoor Performances in Haut-Vaucluse
Haut-Vaucluse, the countryside area of Provence that consists of beautiful landscapes. This place has inspired countless painters due to the vibrant charm coming from the farmlands, olive groves, orchards, and lavender fields.
During summer, Haut-Vaucluse hosts varying outdoor events. Les Chorégies d’Orange is a music festival held from June through August. It includes classic operas, symphony performances, and contemporary music concerts. Moreover, Ancient Theater Week is held in July featuring comedies and tragedies of antiquity, such as the works of Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Ovid. Vaison Danses is another festival that showcases ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and modern dance performances at the Théâtre Antique (ancient Roman theater) and other venues in Vaison-la-Romaine.
Go Sailing in Saint Tropez
Saint Tropez is a coastal town in the French Riviera, evoking luxury and elegance. It is famous for its private yachts displayed along the coast. Anyone can go sailing on the Mediterranean especially that there are plenty of motorboats, sailboats, and yachts that you can rent for a day, a week or more. Saint Tropez is certainly a must-visit destination that will let you enjoy the finer side of France with its fine wines, endless beaches, stone building, mesmerizing landscapes, and captivating sceneries. However, if you like tranquility. I would not recommend that you go in Summer as it is one the most famous destinations of the French riviera and very crowded in July and August.
Have a Picnic at Parc de Belleville
Of course, a typical French experience will include sunny picnics at Parc de Belleville, or any other lovely park you may find. This lets you enjoy the company of your friends or family over a bottle of wine. Pair this with a baguette sandwich and have the classic “Parisian” experience. On top of that, Parc de Belleville allows you to admire the view of the Eiffel Tower–what else can anyone ask for?
There are a number of other alluring things to do in France but I listed those that emphasize the authentic French lifestyle. Some of these are normal activities that locals get to experience. While it may also be forgotten from time to time, it is easy to remind ourselves that we are surrounded by refinement. When traveling to France, aim to maximize every aspect of your vacation by living both like a local and a tourist; the best of both worlds. Truly, the beauty of France never fades–similar to its historic buildings, their culture and grandeur remains. — Dr. Dominique Fradin Read
