Is Saint-Étienne France's Most Underrated City? PLUS: Tips for Learning French!

Is Saint-Étienne France's Most Underrated City? PLUS: Tips for Learning French!

If you love discovering hidden gems in France, this episode is for you! Annie Sargent chats with Brooke Koss Cunningham, a French professor and passionate Francophile, about Saint-Étienne—a city most travelers overlook but absolutely shouldn't. Once known for its coal mines and heavy industry, Saint-Étienne has transformed into a vibrant hub of design, innovation, and affordability. Brooke shares why this working-class city, nestled between the Livradois-Forez and Parc du Pilat, is one of France's best-kept secrets.

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Saint-Étienne is cheap to visit, easy to explore, and packed with surprises. Brooke takes us to the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, where you can see everything from historic bicycles to intricate ribbons—a hit with kids and adults alike. She raves about Weiss Chocolates, a local favorite where you can even take workshops, and the faisselle cheese, a fresh, creamy specialty you won't find outside of France. For outdoor lovers, the Gouffre d'Enfer offers thrilling zip-lining, while Saint-Victor-sur-Loire delivers stunning views of the Loire River without the tourist crowds.

But Saint-Étienne isn't just about sights—it's about experiencing real French life. Brooke explains how the city's tram system makes getting around a breeze, and why its strong local accent and gaga patois add to its authentic charm. She also shares practical tips for learning French, from immersing yourself in conversations to using resources like Radio France and the Alliance Française's Culturethèque. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or someone dreaming of moving to France, this city offers a welcoming, unpretentious vibe that's hard to find in bigger tourist hotspots.

After the chat, Annie dives into an exciting update: JR's 2026 art installation on Paris's Pont Neuf, turning the bridge into a 120-meter "cave" made of fabric. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Paris next summer!

Subscribe to Join Us in France to get more off-the-beaten-path stories, cultural deep dives, and travel tips that make exploring France even more rewarding. Whether you're planning a trip or just love armchair travel, this episode will inspire you to see France differently. Listen now and start dreaming about your next adventure! 🇫🇷✨

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:13] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:50] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:59] Brooke's Connection to Saint-Étienne
• [00:03:58] Travel Planning Tips and Tools
• [00:05:04] Using Maps and Social Media for Travel
• [00:09:06] Join Us in France Website and Resources
• [00:10:38] Preparing for French Interactions
• [00:16:20] Exploring Saint-Étienne
• [00:18:14] Saint-Étienne's Industrial History
• [00:20:30] Tourist Attractions in Saint-Étienne
• [00:23:43] Saint Etienne with Children
• [00:24:50] The Invention of the Bicycle
• [00:28:08] Driving Through Scenic France
• [00:31:25] Family-Friendly Activities in Saint-Étienne
• [00:31:59] Exploring the Loire River and Surrounding Areas
• [00:32:45] Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
• [00:36:00] Medieval and Historical Sites in Saint-Étienne
• [00:39:42] Shopping and Culinary Delights
• [00:44:37] Marker
• [00:47:53] Planning Your Visit to Saint-Étienne
• [00:53:01] Final Thoughts and Farewell
• [00:53:25] Thank you Patrons
• [00:54:30] VoiceMap Tour Review and Exclusive Discounts
• [00:55:28] Itinerary Consulting Services
• [00:55:51] JR's Pont Neuf Art Installation
• [00:58:51] Next week on the podcast
• [00:59:14] Copyright

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