Most people know France as a destination for summer vacations, during which you might enjoy camping with your family. We also used to go to France regularly. The car loaded with stuff, and me armed with all kinds of things against car sickness. Although I have very fond memories of it. France is wonderful to drive through, enjoy nature or visit a beautiful city.
Vive La France
France is also a suitable destination for a workation. Choose the location that suits your needs. France has something for everyone. In the big cities you can find fine work cafes, co-working spaces or a library where you can work quietly. You can also go to a private apartment or vacation home with good wifi and a comfortable workspace. Depending on your preferences and work style, you can choose from different regions:
- Paris: Perfect for those who love a dynamic environment and cultural excursions.
- Provence: Ideal for those seeking peace and nature, with picturesque villages and lavender fields.
- Côte d’Azur: For those who enjoy working by the sea, with a mild climate and beautiful beaches.
- Bordeaux: For wine lovers and those who love historic cities.
I have ordered “Bonjour, je voudrais une baguette et deux croissants s’il vous plaît” countless times. I also had 6 years of French in high school and have been there at least 10 times, so I speak a fair bit of French and can follow it well, at least when they don’t talk too fast.
Transportation to France
Since France is relatively close, you can choose several ways to go there. Although, of course, it makes a difference whether you go north or south. You can get to the north in just a few hours, but if you go to the south you’re 1,200 kilometers away.
- Take the train and travel sustainably
- Take a road trip by car
- Take the plane
- Take a sporty cycling vacation
- Take the (flix) bus inexpensively
Fun cities to visit in France
France is very big and so there is an awful lot of choice for nice places. My favorite cities are Paris and Montpellier. By now I have been to Paris about 4 times, the first of which was in high school. Then we did a class outing to Paris and you had to do some assignments. What a treat that was. You were also required to speak some French with a local so you could practice the French language. Montpellier is known as a student city. Although I must say that I didn’t notice much of that during my visit. I found it mostly very beautiful and had a great meal on one of the terraces. I come there regularly, as I often combine it with a visit to my father who lives nearby. Although I love big lively cities, for my last workation I chose a quiet vacation home in the middle of nature. And this is my father’s vacation home, where he lives part of the year himself and partly rents it out. A place for about 5 people, in the mountains, in a non-touristy tiny village. He built it 20 years ago and it has since become a green oasis, with fiber optic internet! During my break, I enjoy the fresh air and silence. After my work day, I jump into the pool.
Something for you? Then send me a message and I will give you the information.
Productive remote working
When you start working from another place, it is convenient to make the necessary preparations. The first, of course, is a reliable and stable Internet connection. Consider a mobile hotspot as a backup, especially if you are going to more remote areas. Plan your work hours and your free time. Balance is important during a workation. Therefore, plan your work hours and free time in advance so you can make a realistic schedule. Set fixed work hours and stick to them; this helps you stay productive. Use your free time to explore the local culture, enjoy nature or just relax. Want more tips on working productively remotely? Then check out the online Remote Ready course, in which I take you step by step through the proper preparation of your workation.
Bon voyage
With these tips, you’ll be ready for a successful and enjoyable workation in France. Whether you choose the hustle and bustle of the city or the tranquility of the countryside, France has everything you need to work productively and enjoy your free time. Bon voyage and have fun!
