Meet Your Next Travel Designer -

Meet Your Next Travel Designer

With so much to see and do, planning a trip to France isn’t easy. French Side Travel’s experts are here to help. Our travel designers have the knowledge to help you create the trip you’ve been longing for!

About me: I am an American who has had the opportunity to travel all over – Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Mexico, and have made lasting friendships throughout the world. Through some of those friendships I was lucky enough to meet a girl from the south of France and I ended up marrying her! After living together in the U.S. for 11 years, we decided to come back to her home and raise our 4-year-old son, and it’s been an incredible experience so far.

Every traveler should: Visit the hidden gem of Corsica. It is often overlooked in favor of Paris/Loire Valley/Normandy/Provence, but it is an incredible island with beautiful beaches, scenery, and culinary food.

My personal highlight in France: I would have to say my personal highlight in France was the first month or two after I moved here, they were special since I was exploring my new surroundings and discovering life as a “local”. It’s a highlight finding the secret cafés, little-known restaurants, hidden beaches, and getting a deeper sense of the history of the region.

Andrew
Travel Designer
My highlight in France was the first month or two after I moved here, they were special since I was exploring my new surroundings and discovering life as a “local”.

About me: I am an Armenian American who was born in Iran and lived in Los Angeles, CA for many years. I moved to Aix-en-Provence, France in 2013 to start my new life adventure. After working in different industries including sales for many years in the US, I obtained a Master’s Degree in Communications and Marketing from an International University in Aix-en-Provence. In 2023, I joined French Side Travel in the sales department. I enjoy working with people and the customer experience and relationships. My mission at French Side Travel is to create the most unique and unforgettable vacation packages in France for our unique clients. I have traveled to many countries in Europe and the Middle East and since I moved to France, I have visited many regions in France and I have to say that we can find everything in this beautiful country. From the sea to the mountains, to the desert, or the dunes, and from the busy city to the wine country. Everyone can find their happiness here based on their interests.
Every traveler should: From a personal view, I love the quiet charming villages in France where you can explore and find surprises everywhere, taste the regional foods, and meet people.
My personal highlight in France: I also love the French Riviera and our French beaches where I feel safe to swim during the summer and to taste a rosé wine during apéro. Coming to France feels like we are in a real dream and at French Side Travel, we want to make your French dreams come true.

Arpineh
Travel Designer
Coming to France feels like we are in a real dream and at French Side Travel, we want to make your French dreams come true.

About me: I am a French woman from Marseille. I am passionate about my country and my region Provence and I love to share this passion! I really enjoy designing trips to show all the wonders of France.

Every traveler should: Visit the Alpilles to enjoy one of the most wonderful landscapes in Provence. My advice is to spend some time strolling through the picturesque streets of Les Baux-de-Provence. Change of scenery guaranteed!

My personal highlights in France: Our country has so much to offer between the mountains, the beaches, the history, and the gastronomy… There is something for everyone! I personally like Brittany very much for its great beaches, unique landscape, and gastronomy.

Charlotte
Travel Designer
Our country has so much to offer between the mountains, the beaches, the history, and the gastronomy… There is something for everyone

About me: Born and bred in Germany, I spent a few years in the Mediterranean region, before choosing Paris as my second home more than 20 years ago. What do I enjoy about living in Paris? Despite its old walls, historic landmarks, and magnificent renowned monuments, the French capital is an ever-changing open-minded cultural melting pot full of surprises.

Every traveler should: It’s difficult to say! Each region surprises with its authentic beauty. As a Corsica expert, I love the small island’s rustic, quirky charm, and amazing scenery. Provence is a sparkling gem boasting culture, nature, good wine & food – everything your heart desires under an azure blue sky.  As a wine lover, I enjoy wine tasting in the Bordeaux area near the wide sand beaches of the Atlantic Coast lined by fragrant pine trees. But what about the idyllic Loire Valley, the “Garden of France” with its sumptuous chateaux? History aficionados will want to take a trip to the landing beaches.

My personal highlight in France: Visiting the colorful and abundant markets! You will be awed by the array of fresh produce and local delicacies. The local producers and market vendors will delight you with a wordy tasting à la française.

Christiana
Travel Designer
Visiting the colorful and abundant markets! You will be awed by the array of fresh produce and local delicacies.

About me: I am a French woman from Angers, a beautiful city in the Loire Valley. Traveling has been part of my life since I was very young, I had the chance to explore several destinations with my family, on my own, and through my work. I also spent a year in Australia and a few months in London. Today, I enjoy working and traveling in my country and appreciate all its parts, gastronomy, nature, history…

Every traveler should: Discover all the specialties in each region of France! There’s so much to see and do. Sit on a terrace, taste the French gastronomy, and observe the local life!

My personal highlight in France: There are so many, but if I had to choose 1 or 2… I would say the French Alps with their beautiful landscapes and hiking. A real paradise on earth! Also Paris, day or night, there is always a place to go, a good restaurant, a street to discover, a monument to admire…

Claire
Travel Designer
There’s so much to see and do. Sit on a terrace, taste the French gastronomy, and observe the local life!

About me: Native of Lyon, I grew up in the beautiful French Alps. After my studies, I moved to Paris to work as a Tour Operator. I was selling trips to many countries over the world and I was passionate about it. After a year and a half, I had an opportunity that brought me to Marseille. I chose to settle there and I quickly enjoyed the Provencal lifestyle. I love living by the sea, as I find the sound of the waves so peaceful and I love hiking in the Calanques. I joined French Side Travel and began to sell trips to France because my country deserves to be known and discovered as there are so many wonders.

Every traveler should: Immerse themselves in French gastronomy, which is so diverse and tasty. Each city or region has a specialty that is a must-eat. I suggest having a Cannelé in Bordeaux, a Tartiflette in the Alps, a Choucroute in Strasbourg, a Pissaladière in Provence, and drinking various wines in Loire Valley, Burgundy, and Champagne. Enjoy!

My personal highlight in France: Luberon National Park is my happy place. It offers incredible landscapes of nature, overlooking the vineyards and the mountains. Moreover, many small beautiful villages are located there, some of which are part of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”. I love wandering in the cobblestone streets and taking photos of the unique panoramas.

Estelle
Travel Designer
Immerse themselves in French gastronomy, which is so diverse and tasty.

About me: Born in Paris but born to travel! After my studies in tourism, I lived in several countries as Spain, England, New Zealand and Australia. Passionate about discovering the world and its treasures, new cultures and new people. I love hiking, and I’m glad to be living in Marseille now to enjoy its wonderful landscapes.

Every traveler should: Get off the beaten tracks and go discover places that you don’t know about yet. France has a lot to offer, lots of different beautiful regions with various cultural, historical and food histories. Don’t hesitate to do local activities and discover the local places, the little villages and the nature all around you.

My personal highlight in France: Corsica, “l’Ile de beauté” has breathtakings views all around the island and various landscapes. You can do also great walks and find out about the local gastronomy. Brittany, one of my favorite regions of France with magic landscapes, gastronomic and culture history everywhere. Park National des Calanques, for its great hikes and sceneries. The french’s moutains views.

Eva
Travel Designer
Corsica, "l'Ile de beauté" has breathtakings views all around the island and various landscapes. Brittany, one of my favorite regions of France with magic landscapes, gastronomic and culture history everywhere.

About me: Born in Brittany and raised in Provence, I have never been far from the sea. When I was little, I spent all my vacations on the beaches of Brittany. Nice, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Aix-en-Provence, Toulon, and now Marseille have welcomed me. I don’t know how to be far from the sea. Having family in Alsace, Brittany, Occitania, Paris, and even Guadeloupe is a great advantage too. Curious and dynamic, I always want to learn and discover new things. I love to find things that are off the beaten track.

Every traveler should: Get lost in a town or village by following your instincts. Of course, try the local food. France has so much to offer. Visit all the regions of France for the diversity of landscapes and the activities and gastronomy associated with them. The culture of each region is also worth discovering.

My personal highlight in France: If I had to keep only 3:

  1. Get the chance to spend a night on the marvelous Porquerolles island in winter. When the island is empty of visitors, the real Porquerolles life begins.
  2. Walking in a Breton village, finding one of those unofficial stores where Breton grandmothers sell “crêpes”, tasting them on a bench facing the ocean. Then walk around at low tide to collect shells.
  3. Have a picnic on any beach in France. With cheese, wine, baguette, and a sunset.
Fanny
Travel Designer
Get lost in a town or village by following your instincts. Of course, try the local food. France has so much to offer.

About me: At the end of my Master in Tourism Studies in Switzerland, I chose the sun of the South of France and Provence for my internship. I then had the opportunity to stay at French Side Travel to grow with this company and create great offers for our partner travel agencies around the world. I love designing attractive and authentic trips that show all the best that France has to offer, including outdoor activities, culture, food, and wine of course!

Every traveler should: Go behind the obvious and discover the small streets of the towns and villages you cross. Looking up and admiring the facades and decorations of the buildings, there are always unusual or funny elements to discover. And what could be better than a guided tour with a local guide to accompany you on your walk?

My personal highlight in France: A night visit to the Mont-Saint-Michel! When the sun sets and visitors leave the rock, the village becomes calm and silent again. Through the winding streets, you will feel like you are back in the time of the knights.

Florence
Travel Designer
Go behind the obvious and discover the small streets of the towns and villages you cross.

About me: My name is Frank. I was born and raised in New Jersey not far from New York. France has been my biggest passion since I was 16 years old. I came here on a life-changing trip that eventually led to my relocation to Paris in 2015. Since then, I’ve gotten my degree in tourism at a French university, and I have been working as a Travel Designer ever since. I speak English, French, and a bit of Italian. I cannot wait to help you bring your dreams of coming to France to life.

Every traveler should: Take the time to relax! The French art of living is accessible to everybody and takes place in its cafés and restaurants. Every traveler should also take their time. France is one of the richest countries in the world with regard to culture and things to see.

My personal highlight in France: My personal highlight in France is its border regions, the regions that border other European countries in particular Alsace and the Basque Country. These regions are rich in histories that predate France’s current borders and offer a unique perspective into the history of this great country.

Frank
Travel Designer
Take the time to relax! The French art of living is accessible to everybody and takes place in its cafés and restaurants.

About me: Originally from Holland, I have been lucky enough to exchange the cold Dutch climate for the pleasantly warm temperatures of the South of France, thanks to my French husband. All my life I have been attracted to other cultures and environments. That is why I chose to study hotel management. When I go on vacation, I prefer to go to countries that have a completely different landscape and culture than I am used to. During my childhood, we went on holiday to France every summer, but never to the same place twice. Each region of France has a different beauty, cuisine, and identity. As a result, you never get tired of France, there are always new stunning places to discover.

Every traveler should: Take their time during their vacation. Sit on a terrace and taste the local products. Let the environment around you affect you. Try to get out of your habits and try new things. The most beautiful souvenirs are memories!

My personal highlight in France: It is impossible to choose just 1 because they are all so different. I love the Alps where you have breathtaking views and delicious cheese fondue. I am also a big fan of the Côte Sauvage in Brittany, the rugged coastline with beautiful cliffs and idyllic beaches. It is the perfect place to clear your mind and get a breath of fresh air. Lastly, I also would say Provence, here you will find charming villages, delicious wine, an azure blue sea, and a romantic hilly landscape.

Karen
Travel Designer
Sit on a terrace and taste the local products. Let the environment around you affect you.

About me: Half French and Half South African, I have lived my whole life in France. I was lucky to travel at a very young age and have traveled ever since.
I love French culture, history and especially French gastronomy! I have been working in the travel industry for several years, and I love promoting the beautiful country of France; there is so much to see and experience!

Every traveler should: Discover the specialties of each region, spend time with locals to learn more about French culture and who, of course, will be able to suggest the best places to eat.
Wander around to discover off-the-beaten tracks and make the most of the French culture

My personal highlight in France: Burgundy is a beautiful region, there is so much to see in terms of cultural sites and of course gastronomy and the best wine! I also love Bordeaux and the southwest of France, which is so unique with beautiful landscapes and a great atmosphere

Karine
Travel Designer
Burgundy is a beautiful region, there is so much to see in terms of cultural sites and of course gastronomy and the best wine!

About me: I’m an American lucky enough to call Paris home. Living in Paris is wonderful because there’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a smaller museum, a great neighborhood café, a quiet park, or exquisite architectural detail. When I’m not in Paris you’ll find me on the coast of Normandy near Mont-Saint-Michel, which is an area I love sharing with travelers.

Every traveler should: Visit Paris and then start seeing the rest of France. Each region has its own history, culture, gastronomic tradition, scenery, and more. There’s so much to see and do. Some of my favorite places to start are Normandy, the Loire Valley, Bordeaux, and the Côte d’Azur.

My personal highlight in France: Port-Cros, an island just off Hyères. It’s a National Park with great hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and so much beauty. There are no cars or even bicycles allowed on the island so you’re completely on foot. It’s a place that’s different from anything else I’ve experienced in France.

Landen
Travel Designer
Each region has its own history, culture, gastronomic tradition, scenery, and more.
About me: I’m French, born and raised in the beautiful city of Marseille, where the sea and the rich culture have shaped my approach to life. I had the opportunity to travel to many regions of France, and I have developed a deep love for the diversity and beauty that our country, France, has to offer.
Every traveler should: Discover all the French gastronomic wonders, savoring the flavors of local markets, cafés, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Wander the historic streets, soaking up the architecture and stories hidden in the cobblestones, taking time to chat spontaneously with friendly locals. And, of course, an afternoon spent in a vineyard, sipping exquisite wines while admiring the magnificent French countryside, is an unforgettable experience not to be missed.
My personal highlight in France: It’s really hard to choose, but if I had to pick just 3 things, it would be: 1) Discovering the Provence region by cycling through the vineyards, enjoying a day on a boat in Marseille’s Calanques and strolling through the picturesque streets of Aix en Provence. 2) Go skiing in the 3 Valleys to enjoy the slopes of Europe’s largest ski area and sample a French raclette between two runs. 3) Discover the Parisian romantic life by strolling through the Marais, drinking hot chocolate at the Café de Flore, and taking a cooking class on French croissants.
Lou
Travel Designer
Discover all the French gastronomic wonders, savoring the flavors of local markets, cafés, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Wander the historic streets, soaking up the architecture and stories hidden in the cobblestones, taking time to chat spontaneously with friendly locals…

About me: I am an American living in Marseille with my French wife and our dog Nola. I have always had a passion for travel since my first overseas trip to Ireland when I was six. After graduation, I went to work as a sales rep in the craft beer industry. I enjoyed the work, but left it because of a deep desire to explore the world! I have since lived in Australia, Laos, and now France.

Every traveler should: Go for a walk in the village or city you are visiting. Getting lost in its small and cramped streets is a great way to see France. You’ll come across magical places, not in guidebooks or travel blogs.

My personal highlight in France: The Calanques National Park between Marseille and Cassis. Just 25 minutes from my house, I can see my favorite part of France whenever I want to hike with my dog or go for a swim.

Matthew
Travel Designer
Getting lost in its small and cramped streets is a great way to see France. You’ll come across magical places, not in guidebooks or travel blogs.

About me: Active and curious, I try not to go twice to the same place as there are so many spots to visit in France and abroad! My holidays are usually very busy but now I tend to take my time to relax, listening to the sound of the birds, admiring the beauty of a mountainous landscape, and smelling the perfume of the ocean.  I also do my best to engage in a sustainable tourism approach.

Every traveler should: Enjoy the French specialties, and eat in a Michelin-starred restaurant and at the local market!

My personal highlight in France: A gateway in the Vercors and the Baronnies Provençales, not that famous but a gorgeous region between Lyon and Provence!

Melissa
Travel Designer
Enjoy the French specialties, and eat in a Michelin-starred restaurant and at the local market!

About me: Born and raised in Madagascar, I came to France when I was ten. I grew up in Provence, and ever since I left my native country, I’ve loved travelling, discovering new places, meeting locals, and experiencing new culture. So much so that I studied foreign languages because my dream as a little girl was to travel the world and be able to communicate easily. I can speak five languages – Malagasy, French, English, German and Spanish, and I’m learning Portuguese now.
After experiencing life in Lyon and Germany, I returned to my dear South to study and work in the travel industry, but also because I missed the sun’s warmth and wanted to be closer to the sea.

Every traveler should: Try solo traveling every now and then. I love traveling with other people because it’s always nice to have someone to share the adventure and the memories with, but I think it’s also a great experience to travel on your own. It can be therapeutic.

My personal highlight in France: I’m an island girl so, unsurprisingly, I am very fond of the sea. I particularly love the Mediterranean Seaside, from Marseille to Nice. Some of the most beautiful beaches are down that road, as well as the most charming cities and villages, like Cassis – along with its Calanques -, Sanary-sur-Mer, or Port-Grimaud – as known as the Venice of Provence -, to mention a few of my favorites.

Olivia
Travel Designer
I particularly love the Mediterranean Seaside, from Marseille to Nice. Some of the most beautiful beaches are down that road, as well as the most charming cities and villages, like Cassis – along with its Calanques -, Sanary-sur-Mer, or Port-Grimaud – as known as the Venice of Provence -, to mention a few of my favorites.

About me: A native of Burgundy, I settled in beautiful Provence 20 years ago where I started working in the tourist industry. I had the chance to travel around the world while working for a Tour Operator here. Then I joined luxury incoming travel agencies, where I helped create trips of a lifetime for visitors to France.

Every traveler should: Taste wonderful wines in Burgundy, live the magic of Christmas in Alsace, discover wonderful Paris, enjoy the sun of Provence, experience the luxury of Riviera, ski in the French Alps, travel into the past at Loire châteaux, breathe in the huge Normandy beaches… France is a cultural & historical mosaic where every traveler can find happiness!

My personal highlight in France: We are lucky to have so many different and beautiful sights in Provence. I love the Verdon Canyon and the Calanques National Park!

Severine
Travel Designer
Taste wonderful wines in Burgundy, live the magic of Christmas in Alsace, discover wonderful Paris, enjoy the sun of Provence…

About me: I was born and raised in the south of France, so I have had the opportunity to experience Southern culture and vibes my whole life. I have always loved traveling and discovering new places so I find great pleasure in helping others plan the trip of their dreams. My hobbies include long walks on the beach, snorkeling, and eating hearty French food.

Every traveler should: Go to places that locals recommend, do not be afraid to ask anyone you meet in your travels for tips, they will also give you the best places to eat or drink. Making friends in foreign countries often starts like this!

My personal highlight in France: The Gorges du Verdon is my favorite place ever, the endless canyons and winding rivers give you the impression of being in the Grand Canyon, not to mention the turquoise blue lakes, simply beautiful!

Zeny
Travel Designer
Go to places that locals recommend, and do not be afraid to ask anyone you meet in your travels for tips, they will also give you the best places to eat or drink.

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Meet the Team