On the Road in France

December 11, 2012

This summer we are taking a trip to France. As opposed to doing the typical tour guided travel adventure where they funnel you onto a bus and expose you to the most tourist-trap-American-friendly spots possible, we like to rent a car and drive! Not only does driving give you the freedom to see whatever your heart desires from day to day, but it also allows you to see and interact with the local community. This hands-on approach during a trip overseas really immerses you in the culture and countryside.

Since I have never been to France and am not a Francophile by nature, I definitely needed help in knowing anything about this country. Luckily, I found Eyewitness Travels: Back Roads France by DK Publishing. This amazing little guide book gives driving adventures through most of the French cities and countryside. The book breaks down, by region, any interesting or beautiful drives from one scenic destination point, ie. San Denis to the Cliffs of Normandy. Generally the drives range from a few days to the better portion of a week. It gives excellent information on less traveled sight-seeing locales, as well as reports on what restaurants, hotels, and community particulars to catch whenever possible. It also gives a good break down of prices on everything possible, from food to fun and from the free to the top-end high priced events. There are also some great maps and driving instructions/signs. Even though folks drive on the right, like in America, there were a number of road signs I had never seen before.

This book is more than just a tour guide, it is an immersion guide. I was truly amazed by this book and how closely it fit my idea of a perfect driving vacation. What an excellent informational tool for those looking for an off the beaten path adventure! Now, I just have to learn French!

Katie T.
Red Bridge Branch