It seems no one likes dual nationals these days. They are being picked on by politicians in countries across the world. We'll look at whether the rules around dual citizenship could change in France and also remind you of some big changes ahead for anyone planning on becoming French.

We'll also find out why French police and their boss - the French interior minister are up in arms and threatening lawsuits over a board game this Christmas.

We'll catch up with the French PM's efforts to save the government and get a budget through and find out why Americans are obsessed with France.

Im Ben McPartland and I'll be joined by the team at The Local France Emma Pearson, Gen Mansfield and our politics expert John Lichfield.

READ MORE:

• OPINION: France's muddled half-budget counts as a big win for the embattled PM

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This week we have all the latest on the budget showdown in what is a crucial week for the French government. We'll hear about a new high speed train service linking two of France's big cities, but why it isn't quite as direct as it sounds.

We'll examine whether France's ecotax on plane tickets is really leading to airlines cancelling flights and, forget the Nordic countries we'll hear how France is now one of the leading countries when it comes to equality for women, but we'll also reveal a shocking statistic that shows us how much more needs to be done.

We will also explain about how French mayors are taking on noisy tourists and their suitcases.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by the team at The Local France - Emma Pearson, Gen Mansfield and John Lichfield. 

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On this week's show we'll bring you up to date with the turmoil in France, which shows no sign of calming down. The country has another new PM, but another day of strikes, protests and potential clashes looms large. Is there any way the crisis can be resolved?

France's tax man is well nourished but there's a new plan gaining popularity that would see the country's richest pay more. But who's behind it and could it become law?

We'll also hear what you think of the French schools system? Is it rigid and old fashioned or does it help to produce well behaved, polite kids?

We'll look ahead to some of the best events in France this autumn and reveal whether the French really are better at making babies than the rest of Europe.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by the team at The Local France: Emma Pearson, Gen Mansfield and politics wizard John Lichfield.

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Is there any truth to the cliché that France's workers are lazy and could Ryanair and Easyjet limit French air traffic control strikes? These are just two of the topics we will tackle in the first episode of a new series of Talking France. Please take a minute to leave a review.

This week we'll find out why frustrated budget airlines like Ryanair are trying to force a change to limit French air traffic control strikes and what you should know if you want to book a tour around one of the country's famous vineyards.

Further reading:

• Cancellations and compensation: How French strikes affect European flights
• 9 tips for enjoying a French vineyard tour (and wine tasting)

We'll also learn whether there's any truth to the cliché that French workers are lazy, unproductive strikers, who are always on holiday.

We'll tell you the incredible story of a famous French resistance leader and how he and his fellow fighters are viewed both in France and abroad.

And we'll explain why it's not just the French flag you'll see flying in the streets around France.

Further reading:

France debates making EU flag compulsory on public buildings

And if you like Eurovision then you'll be interested to hear about whether the French do.

Further reading:

‘Edith Piaf meets electro’ – 5 things to know about France’s 2023 Eurovision entry

Host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France's editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and French politics expert John Lichfield.

Welcome back to all of our regular listeners around France and indeed around the world, we know many of you tune in from far off lands.

And a big welcome to any new listeners to Talking France - Our job is to bring you up to date with all the big talking points and cultural questions from France each week and it's thanks to members of The Local we are able to do it.

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Is there a whiff of revolution in the air in France after months of protests and strikes and how does living in the country change your habits?

This week we have another jam-packed show and we starting by finding out what our team thinks will happen next after months of protests and strikes in France. Could the revolt change France?

Is Macron a lame duck, are the strikes over and are we heading for a 6th Republic? And what does that even mean?

You can John Lichfield's latest column here:

OPINION: Revolution is in the air in France and 'paternalistic' Macron cannot calm it

We also discuss the one thing you need to check before you move to rural France and look at the ways living in France will change your habits and lifestyle - from the food you eat to the way you dress and perhaps even the way you drive.

And if you like music we hear about the tradition of ‘chanson francaise' and what the French refer to as "yé yé" music.

And if you'd like to listen to some "chansons francaises" you can check out The Local's playlist on Spotify at this link.

We also lay out what you really need to know before you move to Paris - to avoid "la belle vie" becoming a nightmare - as happened to one American couple recently.

Host Ben McPartland and I’ll be joined by The Local France’s Editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and French political columnist John Lichfield.

Please note that this is the last episode in the current series, but thanks to a growing number of listeners, especially those who have shown their appreciation by becoming a member, we should be back in a couple of weeks with more info, insight and discussions on the big issues in France.

If you enjoy Talking France we appreciate it if you take time to leave a review on the platform where you listen to the podcast. We area also always grateful for feedback so please email news@thelocal.fr

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Welcome to our latest episode of Talking France - a weekly podcast by The Local. If you enjoy the podcast please take the time to leave a review on Apple, Spotify or Google or if you have any feedback please email us at news@thelocal.fr.

All our in-depth articles are available at our website thelocal.fr

Is the long battle over pension reform in France finally coming to an end? Everything could depend on the nine wise men and women, who sit on a very important council.

In this week's episode we find out more about them, what they might have to say and what could happen next in the fight over pension reform.

One person you’ll certainly want to get to know if you live in France is your local mayor - at least if you live in a small village. But just how powerful are France’s 35, 000 mayors and what exactly do they do?

It’s April, the sun is shining, the flowers are blooming so that means its tax declaration season in France. We find out some ways you can save on your French tax bill and also some interesting perks the French taxman offers in return for your money.

We will also look at the risk of more devastating wildfires in south western France this year and hear about the government’s new plan to tackle them.

We’ll also find out why Paris is called the city of light and learn the nicknames of some other French cities.

Host Ben McPartland will be joined by the engine room of The Local France - Editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and politics expert John Lichfield.

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Welcome to a new episode of Talking France.

As always this week, we get stuck into the big issues that are making the news in France.

That means finding out why a French minister exposed herself to a barrage of criticism this week by appearing on the cover of Playboy magazine?  

And Marseille, France's second city is being dubbed the "murder capital” again after more deadly shootings in recent days. But just how dangerous is the Mediterranean port city for visitors? 

And of course, the mother of all battles rumbles on. We bring you up to date with pension strikes - fuel shortages, piles of waste, cancelled trains and the protests.

And is now a good time to buy a property in France? And if it is, what are the things you absolutely need to do before you take the plunge and sign the deal? Apart from visit the actual house of course. We’ll find out.

And Easter is upon us but how do the French celebrate it and why isn't Good Friday a public holiday?

We also have some top tips for things you can do in France this Spring.

Ben McPartland is your host but as ever the interesting info and insight is provided by The Local France's Editor Emma Pearson and journalist Gen Mansfield.

Also a big thank you to those listeners who have become members of The Local in recent days and also those who have left positive reviews. It's really appreciated but more importantly your contributions help us to be able continue to be able to talk about France on this podcast.

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Welcome to a special bonus episode of Talking France.

If this is your first time listening to Talking France you should check out our regular weekly podcast which looks at a wide range of news, talking points and cultural questions from France. You listen to all our episodes here.

For this bonus episode we are sticking to one subject focussing on the political crisis and protests against pension reform that have gripped the country in recent weeks.

Regular listeners to Talking France will be familiar with the voice and views of our French politics expert John Lichfield, who has reported on the country for over 25 years.

John's been keeping a close eye on the ongoing turmoil in France so for this bonus episode I asked him to delve a little deeper to help us understand just what's going on and what might happen next.

Why has France become so angry, why have protests turned violent, is this different to previous movements, why are protesters talking about May 1968 and how and when will things calm down? These are just some of the questions I put to John.

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Welcome to a new episode of Talking France, a podcast produced by The Local, made possible by our members. If you like the podcast please take a moment to leave a review on the platform where you listen to it, such as Apple podcasts or send us your views via our podcast survey HERE.

France is still mired in crisis and this week we focus on why the mood in the country has become so angry.

We also look at why pension reform protests have turned violent and who are these black clad protesters waving umbrellas who seem to be behind much of the trouble once again.

And we also look at why water supply to agriculture resulted in an almighty battle between demonstrators and gendarmes in western France at the weekend which saw police riot vans go up in flames and two protesters left fighting for their lives.

Away from protests that are gripping France we look at just how good a country France is to live in, if you're a woman. From maternity leave to wages, is there really égalité in France?

And we find out why France loves an April fish and hear some tips to help foreigners settle in the country.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by joined by our resident talking brains The Local France's Editor Emma Person, journalist Gen Mansfield and French politics expert John Lichfield.

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Welcome to a new episode of Talking France, a podcast by The Local, for anyone interested in what’s going on in France.

And right now there’s a lot going on in France.

For example, an almighty political crisis over President Emmanuel Macron’s contentious move to raise the pension age from 62 to 64.

We have all the latest on how the battle is playing out, including on the streets where hundreds of protests, some violent, have taken place in recent days. 

We look at what’s going to happen next and what it all means for the king of France himself, sorry the president of France Emmanuel Macron. He gave his first real interview on pensions reform this week.

We also try to answer a question many readers are asking right now: Do I need to cancel my trip to France because of the crisis?

And away from strikes and protests, we also look at what a new survey revealed about why foreign residents find France a difficult country to get settled in. What’s harder to master, the language or the paperwork?

Paris Olympics organisers are looking for tens of thousands of volunteers for the 2024 games - we explain how you could qualify.

And finally stay tuned to the end to find out some useful tips for how you can avoid offending French people.

Host Ben McPartland, will be joined this week by The Local France’s editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and the man who can decode French politics for us John Lichfield.

For all articles visit: www.thelocal.fr

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There is always a lot to talk about in France and this week’s episode is brimming with important issues and changes that listeners will be keen to know about.

As rubbish piles up on the streets of Paris the controversial pension reform bill reaches a crucial moment in the French parliament. Will Macon get enough votes to get it through?

The French tax man is famously demanding but perhaps not as mean spirited as people might think. We look at how taxes are rising for those owning property in the country and how you can get help with understanding your bills.

We also hear why one famous French town is handing out live chickens to residents, whether people in Paris really will be able to take a swim in the Seine River in the coming years and clear up confusion many have over France’s laws around the hijab headscarf. 

How many people in the world speak French, where are they all, and what on earth is this backwards French lingo known as "verlan"? We explain all as we mark International Day of the Francophone world.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France’s editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and politics expert John Lichfield.

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Talking France is back this week with more analysis on the big news stories in France as well as insights into French culture.

To start us off we look at the state of play with the ongoing French pension strikes and whether they could yet bring France to a stand still.

We look into the controversy surrounding Paris 2024 Olympics tickets and why it’s only March but we are already talking about water restrictions and drought in France.

And looking ahead to the summer we hear which of the islands off France’s western coast is the best to visit this year and find out why parents in the country might have to give up posting pictures of their kids on Facebook.

And we all know the French love food but what times of the day do they actually eat?

And if you want tips on the best French TV series to watch, then stay tuned until the end.

Host Ben McPartland and I’ll be joined by The Local France’s Editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and our politics expert John Lichfield.

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As is the time honoured tradition on this podcast we bring you up to date with some of the most interesting news stories and changes happening in France.

Including wine. Yes, nothing is more synonymous with France than wine, but why is the government spending millions to turn thousands of bottles of wine into cosmetics?

And when it comes to vin - we try to get to the bottom of some of the fact and fiction around the drinking etiquette and rules you need to respect.

From wine to health. This week we look at the ailments afflicting France’s famed health system. And are you in the middle a medical desert in France? We hear what the government plans to do for you.

And if you’ve been to a beach on France’s west or northern coast you’ll no doubt have spotted some concrete World War Two bunkers. We hear the fascinating story of why they are still there.

On top of that we find out about the man described as the French Shakespeare and tell you just what it costs to retire to France.

Ben McPartland, your host, will be The Local’s foreign legion Editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and our politics expert John Lichfield.

REQUEST: If you like listening to Talking France please leave a review on whatever platform you listen to the podcast. It just helps us find new listeners. And of course if you have any feedback, please email us at news@thelocal.fr

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The French government has collapsed again after Prime Minister François Bayrou lost a vote of confidence in parliament on Monday night.

We've been here before of course, but the latest French political crisis feels even more fraught with President Emmanuel Macron running out of options and numerous strikes and opposition movements lined up for the days ahead.

What happens now? What happens in France when there's no government? What will happen to Macron himself? We'll try to answer all these questions over the next 25 minutes or so, but let's start with a look at what happened on Monday night.

Emma Pearson, Gen Mansfield and John Lichfield have easily survived a no confidence vote to be here with us to bring us all the latest news and analysis. Ben McPartland is your host.

Essential reading:

• OPINION: France may muddle through the latest crisis, but the reckoning is coming
• Bloquons Tout: Transport disruption in France on September 10th
• What happens next after French government ousted?
• 'Relief for the people': France reacts to government collapse
• What does a French Prime Minister actually do?

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In this episode of Talking France we look into why so many Parisians are choosing to leave Paris to live elsewhere and what are the upsides and downsides to this exodus for the French capital.

We also bring you news of a change to the process of becoming French and explore just how hard it is for a foreigner to become naturalised.

One of the criteria of becoming a citoyen of France is of course to speak French and following a suggestion from readers we bring you some crucial advice for mastering the language of Moliere and Asterix.

And the battle over pension reform in France has not gone away, we bring you up to date with the strikes and look at some shenanigans in the French parliament.

We also introduce you to a Frenchman named Robert Hébras and the horrific story that led to him being given a national memorial service this week.

Ben McPartland your host will be joined as always by The Local France’s editor Emma Pearson and journalist Gen Mansfield, plus French language expert Camille Chevalier-Karfis.

If you like what you hear we'd really appreciate it if you left us a review on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google or wherever you listen to Talking France. Alternatively if you have suggestions for the podcast team please email us at news@thelocal.fr

Articles to read:

• TEST: Could you pass the French citizenship exam?
• Why is everyone moving out of Paris and is that a good thing?

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This week on Talking France we explore why the French public are compared to stroppy teenagers when it comes to their relationship with the state.

Are they just a bunch of ungrateful kids or are they right to be so demanding?

We also discuss the next moves in the battle over pension reform after the third day of mass strikes and protests this week.

Visitors have been warned-off two of France’s most famous beauty spots. We find out why and look at what the country’s best natural attractions are doing to stay off the list of no-go sites.

And that most famous of French statesmen Charles de Gaulle has been in the news this week, well one his grandson’s has at least. We explain what he’s been up to and find out more about what happened to the former president’s family.

And if you want to understand the reasoning behind French school holiday dates and learn some handy tips for life in France then stay turned until the end.

If you like what you hear we'd really appreciate it if you left us a review on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google or wherever you listen to Talking France. Alternatively if you have suggestions for the podcast team please email us at news@thelocal.fr

Related articles:

• OPINION: Macron will risk anger on streets rather than abandon pension reform quietly
• Reader question: Will pension strikes affect fuel supplies in France?
• France’s most spectacular beauty spots suffer from too many tourists
• Reader question: Is there any kind of logic behind France’s school holiday zones?

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On this podcast we bring you up to date with all the big news and changes in France that you should know about. All in roughly 30 minutes.

On this week’s episode we look at the latest skirmishes in the battle between the French government and unions over pension reform in France.

The protests appear to be growing in strength and more strikes are planned in February. It’s no doubt a crucial moment in Emmanuel Macron’s presidency but will he prevail?

In a very different subject this week we examine whether the French really are rude and abrupt and hear about one of France’s biggest and arguably best theme parks and the new controversial film its produced about the French Revolution.

We’ll find out how long foreigners have to work in France to qualify for a French pension and look at where this reputation of the French being sexy comes from and more importantly is there any truth in it?

If you like what you hear we'd really appreciate it if you left us a review on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google or wherever you listen to Talking France. Alternatively if you have suggestions for the podcast team please email us at news@thelocal.fr

Articles linked to podcast:

• ANALYSIS: Who is winning the battle over French pension reform?
• Calendar: The latest French pension strike dates to remember
• Pensions: What should I expect if I worked in both France and a non-EU country?
• OPINION: Who are really the rudest – the French, tourists or Parisians?

A small request to all our listeners. If you like what you hear on Talking France please take a minute to review us on the platform you listen to it, whether Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It really helps us grow our audience which is basically what we need to do to be able to keep producing these episodes. Failing that please recommend us to a friend or family member or even on social media. Obviously if you don’t like what you hear please email news@thelocal.fr and tell us why. Thanks to all our listeners who are paying members of The Local. We wouldn’t be able to do this without you.

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As is our duty on this podcast we bring you the main news and talking points from the week in France including of course updates about strikes and protests, what’s coming next and whether the strikes are going to hit the winter holiday period.

We also examine why retirement in France is so sacred and why the country is such a popular place for foreigners to retire to.

The French are known to cherish food, fraternité and pharmacies but they also have a less well known love for comic books. We explain why.

And France may have a reputation as the land of romance - and Frenchmen as great charmers - but a concerning new study suggests France is still deeply sexist and many Frenchmen don’t see a problem with that.

We also answer a question being asked by property owners in France, hear about two French actors in new films about the French police, and as ever we’ll have some essential life hacks for you.

Articles to read:

• French pension strikes - What to expect on January 31st
• Calendar - The French pension strike dates to remember
• France brings in new tax declaration for property owners
• Many young Frenchmen say violence against women acceptable, sexism survey reveals

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You join us at a really crucial moment, for France, for President Emmanuel Macron, for the French trade unions and of course for anyone living in the country or visiting.

That’s because what’s been billed as the ‘mother of all battles’ - is about to begin between unions and striking workers on one side and the French government on the other.

At the centre of it all is the government's controversial plans to reform pensions.

Will France be brought to a standstill? Who and where will be worst hit by the industrial action?

How long will this battle go on for? Can France’s trade unions still put up a fight?

Will Macron cave in? How can I avoid disruption if I’m in France? And should I cancel my upcoming holiday in France?

Those are just some of the many questions we will try and answer during this week’s episode.

Articles for further reading:

• Calendar: The French pension strike dates to remember
• 10 apps to make your life easier during a French strike
• Trains, planes, theatres and schools: The services hit by Thursday's strike in France
• OPINION: Only the power of the street can stop French pension reform

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It’s the start of a new year, there’s a lot going on in France to catch up with so we have a jam-packed episode featuring the president Emmanuel Macron finally opening up about his love life, a look ahead to the ski season in the Alps - will there be any snow to ski on and why folk in south west France will be paying more property taxes.

And the battle lines have been drawn between the French government and the unions over pension reform which means, strikes. Of course. We have all the latest. 

We also look at the danger of more violence from far right extremists in France and what changes for drivers in the country in 2023.

And stay tuned to the end to find out some handy tips for living in France.

I’m joined as usual by Editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield at our office in Paris and our politics expert John Lichfield up in Normandy.

The following articles cover the subjects discussed in the episode.

France's January pension strikes - what services will be affected?

'When you're in love you cannot choose': Macron opens up about falling for Brigitte

The law changes drivers in France need to know about in 2023

What can I do if I've booked a French skiing holiday and there's no snow



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This episode of Talking France is dedicated to looking ahead and what’s in store for France and everyone living here in 2023.

Will there be surprise elections, will there be street protests? 

There will certainly be price rises and we’ll explain just exactly what will cost you more in France in 2023. And perhaps what could cost less - including property.

There will also be big changes for travel, especially for non-EU arrivals in France and we’ll find out whether 2023 will be a good year for public holidays.

And next year will also offer up some things to look forward to in France, including the Rugby World Cup.

Articles to read:

• What changes about life in France in 2023
• Where are French property prices are set to fall in 2023?
• What foreigners in France need to know about border system changes for travellers
• Food, fuel and transport: What prices will rise in France in 2023?

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It's another jam-packed episode on Talking France featuring the aftermath of the World Cup final including why French president Emmanuel Macron was accused of being “offside”.

Article: ‘Offside’?: Macron’s World Cup final support divides opinion

We tell you how your finances could change in France now that the budget has finally passed and introduce you to the World’s richest man - yep he’s a Frenchman and we’ll also hear about a Frenchwoman who is perhaps the most stereotypical Parisian ever on TV.

Did you know that France has 12 different time zones? - We explain why.

Article: 'Confetti of an empire': France's overseas territories explained

And of course it’s Christmas and in France that means rows about religion, sea food banquets and only one day off.

Article: What does laicité (secularism) really mean in France?

And to help you digest all this new information we’ll end the episode in good Gallic spirits - stay tuned to the end to find out what I’m talking about.

Article: Gallic spirits: 17 of the best French digestifs

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On this week’s episode of Talking France we find out why certain Paris cafés are banning customers from getting out their laptops.

Are they really “squatters who don’t pay their way” as one café owner told us, or just a modern, hi-tech version of a traditional Paris café goer? We hear from both sides of the row.

Article: ‘They are squatters’: Are Paris cafés right to clamp down on laptop users?

This week France’s traditional centre-right party has elected a new leader who isn’t traditionally centre right at all. We’ll find out more about him and on the subject of politics we’ll also hear how France’s unofficial first lady Brigitte Macron actually fills her days. There is far more to Brigitte than just being “Macron’s former teacher”.

It’s almost Christmas so we need to talk about Foie Gras and why there are fears in France of a shortage and also why does France have such strict rules around swim wear - especially for men.

Article: Speedos: Why are the French so obsessed with skimpy swimming trunks?

And with France playing Morocco in the World Cup semi final we look at the complicated relations between the two countries and why the match meant more than just football.

Article: OPINION - French, Moroccan or both? In truth, it’s more complicated than politicians will admit

Article: Celebrations and clashes after France make World Cup final

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On this week's show we hear about the real chances of there being blackouts in France this winter and why the French government can't simply blame Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine.

• OPINION: France faces the real possibility of power cuts this winter and it can’t blame Putin

We hear about the Frenchman taking on Elon Musk and we also get into the thorny subject of what the French and the English really think of each other including the views of Britain’s ambassador to France. 

• The French phrases you will need for France v England banter

It's nearly Christmas and that means a lot of our listeners and readers will be on the move. We'll explain just what's in store for those travelling over the next few weeks in France and abroad.

And on the subject of travel we'll explain why France has banned internal flights between certain French cities.

• What to expect if you are travelling to France over Christmas

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Be warned, France’s strike calendar for September is quickly filling up as various unions announce industrial action that could impact, well, pretty much all aspects of life in France. We’ll look at just how much disruption and political discord lie ahead over the next few weeks in France.

And remember this could be the last Talking France episode with Francois Bayrou as Prime Minister. We’ll explore whether France has simply become ungovernable these days.

We’ll also find about one French town that has slapped a ban on people buying up property to be used as a second home. Could this be the star of a nationwide trend?

And speaking of homes, a story on The Local France has gone viral in recent weeks about a French town selling homes for just one euro. But surely there’s a catch? We’ll find out. 

And the big exposé this week is to reveal which of France’s smelly cheeses is the king of stench, the most pungent of them all. The competition is tough but we’ll name the winner.

Im Ben McPartland and with me this week will be the team from The Local France, Emma Pearson, Gen Mansfield and John Lichfield.

Essential reading:

• KEY DATES: Strikes planned in France in September 2025
• How to challenge your 2025 French property tax bills
• LISTED: New flights to and from France in autumn and winter 2025
• Phone ban and sex education: The changes in French schools from September 2025
• Brittany town bans second homes amid housing shortage
• 5 things you need to know about France's one euro homes
• VERDICT: What is the smelliest French cheese of all?

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In this week's show we bring listeners up to date with some of the biggest news and talking points in France including President Emmanuel Macron's state visit to the United States.

We look at the ups and downs in Franco-American relations over the years and find out why Macron is far from happy with his US counterpart Joe Biden.

We also find out a little bit more about the thousands of American citizens who have made home in France.

We learn about one of France's most influential women in history and why her name is back in the news this week.

Plus we head to one particular part of France that's very different to the rest of the country, not least because it has its own public holidays and Christmas traditions.

And the ballot for Paris 2024 Olympics tickets opens on Thursday. We give you all the info and tips on how you can get your hands on some.

As always I'll be joined by The Local France's editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield, French language expert Camille Chevalier Kharfis and special guest Jim Bittermann from CNN.

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In this week's episode of Talking France we find out why people in the country could be facing a "tsunami" of rising prices in the months ahead.

The mayor of Paris is considering a ban on electric scooter rental schemes. Are they just too dangerous or do they offer a vital, environmentally friendly and exciting way to get around the City of Light? We hear both sides of the argument.

We also learn about a French philosopher known as BHL and find out why he's always in war zones... with his shirt half unbuttoned and his hair immaculately coiffed.

And have you ever wondered why the streets of French town and city centres are home to so many independent shops and cafes rather than just the chain stores? We explain why.

And a new international ranking shows the French are still lagging behind almost all of Europe when it comes to proficiency in speaking English. Now we at The Local are in no place to lecture anyone about language ability but are there reasons the French struggle compared to the Germans or Nordic countries and could they one day top the rankings?

Host Ben McPartland iss joined by our usual guests The Local France's editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield, politics analyst John Lichfield and language expert Camille Chevalier-Karfis.

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It’s Beaujolais Nouveau day, when the 2022 batch of Beaujolais wines hits the shelves. We’ll explain why it’s such a big event – but why it was even bigger in the 1980s.

• Does Beaujolais Nouveau wine deserve its bad reputation?

This week we also discuss bullfighting, yes bullfighting exists in France, well at least in certain parts of the country. But for how much longer? The controversial blood-sport is in the line of fire of lawmakers and animal rights groups.

• EXPLAINED: Could bullfighting finally be banned in France?

We’ll also discuss why John Lichfield believes France is facing a “dangerous moment” with fuel prices set to soar once again.

“We are just four years on from the Gilets Jaunes movement which was a protest against the threat of rising fuel prices. But these (protest movements) tend to develop very quickly like a squall and we could see a lot of problems in the weeks ahead,” said John.

• French petrol stations run dry with fuel prices set to rise

Also in this week’s episode we look at whether €72.2 million could bring an end to the dangerous and deadly Channel migrant crossings and what happened to the 234 migrants on a rescue ship that was allowed to dock in France.

• OPINION: France and the UK need to get real if they really want stop Channel migrant crossings

And we’ll also hear about an almighty row involving the man some call “France’s Rupert Murdoch” and learn some French insults that we don’t recommend you use – (but they are useful to know).

Do you live on the coast of France? A new report has mapped out those parts of the country’s coastline which could one day be under water. We’ll take you through them to see if you area or favourite coastal resort in France is affected.

• MAPS: The parts of France set to be underwater as sea levels rise

Our host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France’s journalists Gen Mansfield and James Harrington, our politics expert John Lichfield and special guest Caroline Conner from Lyon Wine Tastings.

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As usual this week we will be talking about the main news in France and also digging into some interesting subjects that really help explain the country and its culture to you, our listeners.

Up first we'll bring you the main talking points from the week including a look at the new president of the French far right. He's only 27 years old. Also will there be Christmas lights in French cities and towns this year and why is Miss France in hot water?

We'll also bring you up to date on France's new immigration bill including a plan to introduce French language tests for certain residency permits. Should foreign residents in France be nervous about this?

We'll also explore what a planned new passport checking system, due to be rolled out in France and across the EU next year, will mean for anyone travelling to the country. 

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This week we head into rural France.

Listeners will no doubt know that you absolutely need a car if you're in the French countryside but can President Emmanuel Macron convince drivers to go electric with his new offer?

And what about pubic transport? Does the French government have any plans to improve trains and buses for those living in la France Profonde. 

We get the latest on the fuel blockades and look at whether this week's nationwide strike in France will give Macron and his ministers reason to be jittery about the months ahead. Will it really herald an uprising like May 1968?

And what's been happening with Notre Dame Cathedral. Will it really be restored in time for the Paris Olympics. We get the latest.

We also bring you some French films you really should find time to watch and discover why everyone has been talking about stretchy mash potato and cheese in the Auvergne region of central France.

Host Ben McPartland will be joined by editor Emma Pearson and journalist Gen Mansfield, who this week joined us on the line from the US. As usual we picked the brains of our politics expert John Lichfield.

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In this week's episode we'll discuss the ongoing and worsening fuel crisis in the country. 

With drivers having to queue for hours to fill up their cars and the French government taking the bold step of forcing strikers back to work tensions are high. Are we heading for a winter of discontent?

We'll also hear about the changing eating habits of the French.

In the country of Boeuf Bourguignon and steak frites is meat now becoming too hard to digest for a younger, more environmentally conscious generation?

We'll hear about how one of France's most famous Christmas markets is cracking down on tacky products - including, believe it or not Champagne.

And the battle against the influence of English words in the French language goes on. Are the guardians of la langue francais right to protect the language of Moliere against the language of Shakespeare and the Spice Girls? Or is it futile?

Joining me will be The Local France's editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and French politics expert John Lichfield.

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In the new episode of Talking France, we'll be discussing why storm clouds are gathering over the French parliament and why the next few weeks and months look set to be tempestuous for President Emmanuel Macron and his government. We'll lay out the battles that lie ahead and what's likely to happen.

And we'll also hear about yet more of Macron's ministers and advisors landing in hot water and what it could all mean for the president.

We'll hear about why French towns are boycotting the world's biggest sporting event, an historic moment for the Paris Metro and we'll bring you the definitive answer to the question: "what is the best part of France's coastline?"

We'll also try to answer that age old question of "Whether French workers are the biggest strikers of them all?"

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In today's episode we'll look at whether France is heading for another wave of strikes and protests prompted by yet another pension reform.

Yes, nothing riles France's unions more than a proposal to make people work for longer in life but that's what President Emmanuel Macron wants to do. We'll find out why and what's likely to happen.

We'll also discuss why wearing a roll-neck jumper is the latest energy saving measure recommended by the French government.

We'll examine what's gone wrong with the Eurostar and find out why Brexit is partly to blame for higher prices and longer queues on the Paris to London rail service.

We'll also hear about a battle brewing between mussel farmers and spider crabs on the French coast and learn about that famous autumn Gallic pastime of mushroom foraging and why it's more dangerous than you'd think.

And stay with us until the end to learn some useful French vocab and expressions.

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In our latest episode of Talking France - a podcast in which our team at The Local, including French politics expert John Lichfield, discuss all things French, we look at the main talking points in France this week.

We explain the new French government website ministers want us to sign up to and why it might help avoid power cuts this winter.

We'll examine how skiing in the Alps or Pyrenees might be different for winter holidaymakers this year and whether all the money the French government is ploughing into cycling will improve safety.

With the help of John Lichfield we'll discuss the crisis on the French left brought about by claims and admissions of domestic abuse by two prominent figures. 

Is this the beginning of the end for the seemingly invincible Jean-Luc Mélenchon?

"It's never been possible to criticise Mélenchon internally within his own party, but it is now," John Lichfield tells Talking France.

And John will also look at the contrast between the struggles of President Emmanuel Macron at home and his strong showing on the international stage, not least with his powerful speech at the UN this week.

Macron is strong and forthright abroad but lost and depressed at home, John tells the podcast.

On a lighter note we'll delve into the French tradition of afternoon snacking, the one "meal" of the day when the French - or at least the kids - can anyway without eating absolute "crap".

Talking France is a free podcast open to all. It's funded by readers becoming members of The Local. If you like what you listen to please leave a review on Spotify, or Apple / Google Podcasts. 

And always feel free to email us with feedback at news@thelocal.fr

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On this week's episode we'll discuss everything from France's love for the British queen, problems with French nuclear power, the long-awaited return of Dijon mustard to supermarket shelves and what the devastating wildfires could mean for France's fine wines.

We'll also look at why the thorny issue of euthanasia and assisted dying is back in the news in France and how President Emmanuel Macron is hoping to settle the country's law on the right to die once and for all .

But is a referendum really the best way to do that?

And we'll bring you much, much more including some French vocab to learn and the one French TV show you really should tune into this autumn?

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So summer's almost over, but it's been an eventful one in France. We'll bring you up to date with what's been happening. But the thrust of this week's episode and the reason we've started the new series a week earlier than planned is that France has, once again, been plunged into, yep you can guess what I'm going to say next: a new political crisis.

The country is facing "great danger" says the PM Francois Bayrou, but is the country listening to him? We'll get all the news and analysis on the latest turmoil to hit Emmanuel Macron's government and find out what's going to happen next.

And one of the big subjects our team has been covering in recent weeks has been a major change to France's citizenship rules that has left a lot of readers anxious.

We'll explain all.

They say never change a winning team, so for this new series I've decided to stick with the same line up that has made Talking France THE podcast to listen to if you're interested in France... With me once again will be Editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and French politics guru John Lichfield. Ben McPartland is your host.

Thanks for joining us for a new series of Talking France.

We hope you all had a fantastic summer wherever you were.

As a reminder, just in case you might have forgotten during the heatwaves, this is a podcast produced by the team at The Local France, thanks to our paying members, so if you like what you listen to, please sign up via The Local.fr and help keep Talking France going.

Essential reading:

• OPINION: PM Bayrou is doomed, but will his fall wake up France?
• 'Illogical, bizarre and ageist': Readers react to French citizenship changes
• Analysis: Has France really made it impossible for retirees to get citizenship?

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This is our final episode of Talking France before we, like the rest of France, take a summer break.

There is a lot to discuss as we look into what the next few weeks have in store for France.

From the return of Covid-19 to the summer get away and from the political chaos to the threat of strikes we will explore what could happen over the next few weeks.

We'll also learn a thing or three about the French Constitution and discover whether the French really do eat frogs legs, snails and horse as the stereotype has us believe.

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SURVEY: Share your feedback on Talking France

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In a very dramatic week for France, The Local's Talking France podcast is back, digesting the political crisis, as well as discussing the summer sales, the expanding train network and whether people in France really work just 35 hours a week.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by Local France editor Emma Pearson, reporter Genevieve Mansfield and political expert John Lichfield to dissect the aftermath of the parliamentary election that has plunged France into a political crisis.

We look at what happened, what Emmanuel Macron’s options are for the months ahead and how the far-right ended up with so many seats in parliament.

John Lichfield told us: “We are in an unknown situation for this generation of politicians – they are not used to this type of haggling, trying to form majorities on different issues or alliances. This is not something that has been happening in France for half a century or more.

“In the 1940s and early 1950s there were frequent French parliaments that had no majority, revolving door governments, prime ministers who lasted only a few weeks – that’s not really happened since the system was changed by Charles de Gaulle.”

Stepping away from politics, we’re getting on the train – the latest travel trend is for swapping planes for trains and France is great place to do this thanks to the high-speed TGV network. The country also has some exciting plans for more night-trains and international travel to and from France is also under expansion.

As the summer sales begin, Gen explains how les soldes came about and why it is that the French government so strictly regulates them.

And we’re looking at one of the big questions about France – does everyone here really only work 35 hours a week?

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As France bakes under an unusually early heatwave, the latest edition of Talking France examines how French cities are adapting to the new reality of hotter summers, as well as discussing French regional rivalries, the latest strike action and the reality of driving in France.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by Local France editor Emma Pearson and reporter Genevieve Mansfield to discuss all the latest talking points in France – from the neck-and-neck elections on Sunday to the threatened summer of strikes.

As temperature records break around France, we’re also looking at how French cities are adapting to the climate crisis – particularly the northern cities that are badly designed for the scorching summers that are the new reality.

As ever we are answering questions from listeners – this week you asked us about the biggest regional rivalries, from sports to boundary disputes, food wars to flag rivalry.

And we also explain three things you need to know about French autoroutes – from the rules of the road to how it is that they came to be operated by private companies and how those toll prices are set.

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In this episode of Talking France we'll be looking at the upcoming parliamentary elections - which are struggling to attract interest of voters despite being crucial for what happens over the next five years - French inheritance law, celebrity love affairs and France's best music festival.

Ben McPartland is joined by France editor Emma Pearson, reporter Genevieve Mansfield and veteran political correspondent John Lichfield to examine the big news stories and the talking points from France this week.

Sunday marks the first round of voting in the parliamentary elections. We're looking at why these are important, the faces to look out for and of course trying to weigh up what will happen.

We also shine a light on the big talking points in France this week - from financial aid with the cost of living crisis to a celebrity wedding and one of France's least known regional languages.

As ever we're answering questions from readers - this week it's one for property owners, what are the rules around inheritance in France?

And we're talking a look at what is on the horizon in France, including one of the best festivals of the year - the Fête de la musique.

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SURVEY: Share your feedback on Talking France

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The Local's Talking France podcast is back with a look at the burning issues in France this week - from policing to farm animals, workers shortages to paperwork traps. 

Host Ben McPartland is joined by Local France editor Emma Pearson and reporter Genevieve Mansfield to discuss the big issues in France this week - from the controversy raging around the Interior Minister to problems with the French police and their often heavy-handed crowd-control techniques.

We're also joined by veteran political columnist John Lichfield to look at the domestic fall-out from the chaotic scenes during a football match at the Stade de France.

Genevieve talks us through the staffing shortage that is already hitting France and is expected to get worse over the summer, and we're also answering question from our readers - Why a woman's maiden name is such a big deal in France?

Finally, we've got some handy French vocab and a look ahead to some of the events on the horizon.

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In this week's Talking France we'll look at what's new in France, which Frenchman is dominating all the headlines and why now is great time to head to Provence.

And for our main topic of discussion we'll look at the climate crisis. How will it impact France, which regions will most affected and is President Emmanuel Macron really prepared to do what needs to be done?

It is of course a long weekend for many because of Ascension day on Thursday so we'll give three things you need to know about those sacred public holidays in France.

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With the results in and Emmanuel Macron having secured a second term as French president, The Local's Talking France podcast breaks down the results and looks ahead at the next few days, the parliamentary elections and the five years of Macron's second term.

As the results came in, Ben McPartland was joined by The Local’s France editor Emma Pearson and veteran political columnist John Lichfield to try and work our what it all means.

Macron was re-elected with a 17 point lead, the first French president to win a second term. However turnout was the lowest since 1969 and of those people who did vote, four in 10 voted for the far-right candidate Marine Le Pen.

Add this to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the war in Ukraine and the likelihood of further international political and economic turmoil, and Macron has a challenge on his hands.

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France will choose its next president on Sunday and the choice for voters is simple: re-elect the incumbent centrist Emmanuel Macron or opt for his longstanding rival on the far right Marine Le Pen.

Some 15.6 million French voters tuned in to watch Wednesday night's almost-three hour clash to see if either candidate could land any knockout blows on their opponent just days before the crucial vote.

We speak to John Lichfield to get his take on the clash, whether there was a clear winner and loser and if the live tête-a-tête will have any impact on Sunday's voting.

Along with The Local France's editor Emma Pearson we'll also be looking ahead to Sunday and beyond to look at what will happen next depending on who wins.

With John and Emma we'll also look at why France feels more divided than ever.

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Emmanuel Macron and his far-right challenger Marine Le Pen will face each other once again in the second round run off vote in the race for the Elysée.

Host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France's editor Emma Pearson and political commentator John Lichfield to discuss what's likely to happen when voters go to the polls again on April 24th.

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This final episode of the season is all about looking ahead to the summer in France. And it plans to be a hot one, in more ways than one with a raft of possible transport strikes ahead that could impact your holidays.

We'll get all the latest on industrial action, some possible political turbulence as well as look ahead to some major summer events in France and find out just how extreme the heatwaves are going to be.

And to do all this host Ben McPartland calls on The Local's editor Emma Pearson and politics expert John Lichfield. 

Extra reading:

• Planes, trains and museums: The strikes to expect in France this summer
• How hot will it get in France this summer
• OPINION: Another week, another attempt to bring down the French government

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French voters will head to the polls for the first round of voting on Sunday and the election race has suddenly become very interesting.

On this week's episode host Ben McPartland runs through the latest polls, news and talking points with The Local France's editor Emma Pearson. 

We'll also look at what actually happens on polling day and why people in France will be glued to their TV screens at 8pm. 

Our political columnist John Lichfield is again with us. John has long believed that Emmanuel Macron will be re-elected but does he now have reason to doubt his prediction given the latest developments? And what would France be like under a Marine Le Pen presidency? 

This week we also spoke to political analyst Mudgetarbar Rahman about why this election matters far beyond the borders of France. 

And if you want to learn some handy French words and phrases then stay with us until the end. 

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In the latest episode of the Talking France podcast, The Local team plus commentators John Lichfield and Rim-Sarah Alouane look at what the election candidates plan for foreigners in France, how the idea of the secular French state has been 'weaponised', and which political party is selling election-special condoms.

Ben McPartland is joined by Local France editor Emma Pearson, reporter Sam Bradpiece and columnist John Lichfield to talk about the latest from the French election trail – from the behaviour of former presidents to what the candidates have planned for foreign residents in France and the likelihood of an election shock in the second round.

Legal academic Rim-Sarah Alouane, of Toulouse-Capitole university, a specialist in religious freedom and civil liberties, explains what the French concept of laïcité (secularism) actually is, how it has changed and become weaponsised in the political discourse and what this means for Emmanuel Macron.

The team is also looking at ‘election merch’ each party is selling – from slogan T-shirts to frisbees and condoms – and explaining some French phrases that you’ll hear at election time. 

If you are not yet a member of The Local please consider joining by visiting thelocal.fr/podcastoffer

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With three weeks to go until the first round of the French election, The Local France team plus guest experts John Lichfield and Adam Plowright discuss abstention levels, Macron's legacy for France and which candidate would make the best drinking buddy.

The Local’s Talking France aims to make sense of France, its politics and in particular its 2022 presidential election. This week host Ben McPartland and The Local France editor Emma Pearson are joined by veteran columnist John Lichfield, plus Macron biographer and Paris-based journalist Adam Plowright.

We’re talking the latest from the campaign trail, the problems of abstention, how powerful the French military really is and why it is that so many people seem to viscerally hate Emmanuel Macron.

We’re also looking at whether a low turn out will really mean a re-elected Macron would be an ‘illegitimate’ president, as his opponents claim.

And as ever, we’ll be looking at some of the French words and phrases you need to understand the presidential campaign, and answering questions from our readers – such as, what is a vote blanc?

If you are not yet a member of The Local please consider joining by visiting thelocal.fr/podcastoffer

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