According to people in the know, there are two Frances: Paris and the rest of the (alluring, picturesque) country. In this episode, we’re celebrating the châteaux, coastlines, cathedrals, cuisine, mountains, and museums that give France its unique je ne sais quoi.It’s hard to argue with the notion that France offers the best of everything. From scenery and snacks to iconic art, world-changing history, and culture-shaping fashion, it’s practically ground zero for the good things in life. The light is golden. The wine is luscious. The cheese is heavenly, and the scenery is so beautiful, it makes the heart yearn. You can take a road trip or a bike ride among the purple rivers of lavender fields in Provence or the gilt-and-green vineyards in Burgundy. Loll in the sun and splash in the sea along the Riviera — or tour a château where nobles ruled and romanced 500 years ago. Wander the streets and cafés that inspired Vincent Van Gogh, then relax under a shade tree with a perfect baguette and the world’s best butter.In this episode, we take a virtual road trip around France, explore the Bayeux Tapestry, and get curious about an obscure (and deeply romantic) French law. Then we recommend five great books that took us to France on the page.Clara Reads Proust by Stéphane Carlier, translated by Polly MackintoshJoan by Katherine J. ChenMurder on the Île Sordou by M.L. LongworthA Woman of No Importance by Sonia PurnellFresh Water for Flowers by Valérie Perrin, translated by Hildegarde Serle

For more on the books we recommend, plus the other cool stuff we talk about, visit our show notes.Sign up for our free Substack to connect with us and other smart, friendly people who love travel and books.Transcript of France: Mostly Here for the ButterDo you enjoy our show? Do you want access to awesome bonus content? Please support our work on Patreon! Strong Sense of Place is an audience-funded endeavor, and we need your support to continue making this show. Get all the info you need right here. Thank you!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices