Home Exchange in France: Real Experiences & Secrets to Affordable Travel, Episode 575

Category: France on a Budget

Ever dreamed of exploring France without draining your bank account? In Episode 575 of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent sits chats with Mali Arnstad (@arcticmum on Instagram), a seasoned traveler with 14 years of experience in home exchange in France.

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Together, they pull back the curtain on how to swap homes, save money, and dive into the heart of French culture—like a local. This isn’t just theory; it’s a treasure trove of real-life stories, practical tips, and a few surprises along the way. If you’ve ever wondered how to make travel more affordable and authentic, this episode is your golden ticket.

Why Home Exchange in France Works

Home exchange isn’t just a budget hack—it’s a gateway to living like a local. Mali Arnstad, a Norwegian mom of three, started swapping homes over a decade ago and hasn’t looked back. She’s stayed in Brittany, Paris, Bordeaux, and even tiny villages most tourists never hear about. The best part? She did it all without paying for hotels or rental cars. Annie, who recently dipped her toes into the world of home exchange in France, adds her own fresh perspective. She tried it in Poitiers, Rouen, Paris, and Vichy, and she’s here to spill the tea on what worked (and what didn’t). Spoiler: One Parisian apartment left her scrubbing clothes in the sink. But the magic of staying in a real home—complete with a welcome bottle of wine or a handwritten list of secret local spots—far outweighs the occasional hiccup.

Mali breaks it down simply: You sign up on a platform, list your home, and connect with families who want to trade places. Some swaps are simultaneous—you stay in their home while they stay in yours. Others use a points system, where you earn credits by hosting others. Either way, you’re not just saving money. You’re gaining insider access to neighborhoods, markets, and hidden cafés that guidebooks miss. Imagine sipping coffee in a Parisian apartment in Le Marais or biking to Les Dunes du Pilat with borrowed wheels. That’s the power of home exchange in France.

The Nitty-Gritty: How to Make It Happen

So, how do you start? Mali’s advice: Keep it real. Post honest photos of your home, declutter a bit, and write a warm description. Highlight what makes your area special—whether it’s hiking trails, a bustling food market, or a quiet beach. Annie adds that flexibility is key. Don’t fixate on one city. Expand your search to nearby departments (like Seine-Maritime for Rouen or Allier for Vichy) to find hidden gems. And yes, you can even swap cars! Mali’s family has driven French cars across Brittany and parked in private driveways in Montpellier. Pro tip: Always check the amenities. Annie learned the hard way when a “washer/dryer” turned out to be off-limits.

Trust is a big deal, but Mali assures it’s rarely an issue. Most exchanges go smoothly, thanks to reviews, WhatsApp chats, and a shared love of travel. She’s cared for dogs, chickens, and even a turtle in exchange for a cozy stay. Annie’s take? If you’re comfortable lending your home to friends, you’ll likely thrive here. The community is tight-knit, and most people leave homes cleaner than they found them. Still nervous? Start with a short stay. Many hosts offer 3-4 night minimums—perfect for a test run.

Secrets to Affordable Travel: Where to Go and What to Avoid

Mali’s favorite spots? The Atlantic coast—Bordeaux, Arcachon, and La Teste-de-Buch—for their laid-back vibes and stunning beaches. She’s not a fan of the crowded Côte d’Azur, but if you love glamour, you’ll find swaps there too. Annie loved her stay in Poitiers, where a Tesla-driving host shared tips on solar panels and local history. She also adored Vichy, where an art teacher welcomed her with open arms. But Paris? Not all swaps are created equal. Her studio in the city was a letdown, proving that price (or guest points) often reflects quality.

Both agree: The real magic lies in the recommendations. Mali’s hosts have sent her to night picnics by Roman bridges in Languedoc and flea markets in Denmark. Annie’s hosts pointed her to Le Carnavalet Museum in Paris and the National Archives, where she stumbled upon Robespierre’s death table. These aren’t just places; they’re stories. And they’re yours for the taking when you swap homes.

Want to eat like a local? Mali’s hosts have guided her to oyster booths in tiny villages and boulangeries so good, they’ll ruin you for supermarket bread. Annie’s tip: Ask for a list of their favorite spots before you arrive. Skip TripAdvisor. Your host’s handwritten notes are pure gold.

The Good, the Bad, and the Unexpected

Let’s be honest—no travel method is perfect. Annie’s Paris swap had a bathroom stuck in the 1970s and a “no washing machine” rule that wasn’t in the listing. Mali’s had a hedgehog in the pool (RIP) and a debate over a scratched car. But these stories are part of the adventure. The key? Manage expectations. If a listing looks like a student apartment, it probably is. If the photos are dark, bring a headlamp (yes, Annie did that).

The perks far outweigh the quirks. Mali’s daughters have played in princess-themed toy rooms in Brittany. Annie’s charged her electric car in a host’s driveway and chatted about solar energy over coffee. You’ll save money, but you’ll also gain friends. Mali still texts with a Spanish host who visited her in Norway. Annie’s already planning her next swap.

How to List Your Home (and Why You Should)

Thinking of listing your place? Mali says go for it. Start with a clean, clutter-free space and a key lockbox for easy access. Leave a welcome gift—a bottle of local wine or a lemon pie—and a note with Wi-Fi passwords and trash pickup days. Annie suggests adding a personal touch, like a map of your favorite walks or a list of nearby farmers’ markets.

Worried about strangers in your home? Remember: They’re worried about you in theirs. Most exchanges end with mutual gratitude—and sometimes, lifelong connections. Annie’s now listing her apartment in Spain and considering her primary home too. Her advice? Be patient. It can take weeks or months to find the right match, but it’s worth the wait.

Ready to Try Home Exchange in France?

This episode is packed with secrets to affordable travel that could change how you explore France. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a retiree, home exchange offers freedom, authenticity, and savings. So why not give it a shot? Listen to Episode 575 for all the details—and maybe start browsing listings today.

Hit play on your favorite podcast app, or catch the full episode on Spotify or YouTube. While you’re there, subscribe to Join Us in France so you never miss an episode. Got questions? Drop them in the comments. We’d love to hear: Where would you swap first?

Bon voyage—and happy swapping! ✈️

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Category: France on a Budget