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Categories: Normandy & Brittany, Off the Beaten Track in France, Paris
Exploring France’s Hidden Gems: An Anniversary Adventure
Have you ever dreamed of celebrating a special occasion in France? In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent chats with Gina Angelillo to talk about her unforgettable anniversary trip. Gina, from New York, shares her experiences exploring France’s hidden gems, including Saint-Malo, Normandy, and Paris.
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From walking ancient ramparts to discovering charming villages, Gina’s journey highlights the magic of traveling beyond the usual tourist spots. If you're looking for inspiration for your next trip, this episode is packed with useful tips, great food recommendations, and insights into some of France’s most beautiful locations.
Accommodations Recommended in this Episode
Saint-Malo: Hôtel France et Chateaubriand – Gina and her husband stayed inside the walled city of Saint-Malo, which she found perfect for walking and exploring the area.
Bayeux: Hôtel d'Argouges – Gina loved staying near the D-Day beaches, which made it easy to explore the historical sites without long drives.
Paris: Hôtel Relais Bosquet – In Paris, they stayed in a hotel near the Luxembourg Gardens, enjoying the central location and peaceful surroundings.
Walking the Ramparts in Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo was one of the highlights of Gina’s trip. She and her husband loved walking the historic ramparts, enjoying the ocean views, and soaking in the city's unique atmosphere. The walled city, rebuilt after World War II, retains its old-world charm. She also raved about the seafood, especially the mussels and fries she enjoyed at a café by the ramparts.
Visiting Saint-Malo in early October was perfect. The weather was pleasant, and the crowds were manageable. It’s a great destination for travelers who love history, beautiful coastal views, and relaxed strolls through charming streets.
Discovering Normandy’s Rich History
Exploring France’s hidden gems wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Normandy. Gina and her husband rented a car and explored some of the region’s most famous sites. They started in Rouen, a city filled with history, stunning architecture, and great shopping.
Next, they stopped in Bayeux, where they visited the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. Gina wasn’t sure what to expect but found the experience fascinating. The museum’s audio guide explains the details of the tapestry’s story, making it easy to follow along even if you’re unfamiliar with the history.
One of the most emotional parts of the trip was the D-Day beaches tour with Overlord Tours. Their guide brought history to life, sharing powerful stories about the landings. They also visited the American Cemetery, a moving tribute to the soldiers who fought in World War II.
A Visit to Mont Saint-Michel
No trip to Normandy is complete without a visit to Mont Saint-Michel. Gina and her husband arrived early to avoid the crowds. The climb up to the abbey was a workout, but the views from the top were worth it. However, she found it a bit too touristy compared to Saint-Malo. She recommends visiting but suggests pairing it with a stay in a nearby town for a more relaxed experience.
Paris: Charming Cafés, Museums, and Hidden Corners
Paris was the final stop on Gina’s trip. She and her husband stayed in the Latin Quarter, which gave them easy access to many famous sights. They loved the café culture, stopping for coffee and wine breaks throughout the day.
Some of the highlights of their time in Paris included:
- The Conciergerie – A fascinating historic site with an exhibit on Marie Antoinette.
- The Rodin Museum – A beautiful, manageable museum with stunning sculptures and gardens.
- The Pantheon – A must-visit for history lovers, with the tombs of Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie.
They also did a wine and cheese tasting lunch at Ô Chateau, which was a fun and educational experience. Gina recommends eating a meal beforehand since the portions are more for tasting than filling up.
A Well-Planned Trip with the Right Balance
Gina and her husband planned their itinerary carefully, making sure to balance sightseeing with relaxation. They rented a car for Normandy but took the high-speed train from Saint-Malo to Paris, which she highly recommends to save time and avoid long drives.
By exploring France’s hidden gems, they got to experience both the famous landmarks and the lesser-known treasures that make France so special.
Plan Your Own Adventure
This episode is perfect for travelers looking for ideas beyond Paris. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or simply soaking in the beauty of France, Gina’s trip offers a great blueprint.
Listen to the full episode for more details, travel tips, and insights from Annie and Gina!
Table of Contents for this Episode
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TranscriptCategories: Normandy & Brittany, Off the Beaten Track in France, Paris