Dear readers,
It is time to plan where to go this summer. Experts estimate that in the summer of 2024, a record number of travelers worldwide will be leaving their countries to explore new cities and countries. The 2024 travel trend forecasts that the travel industry will see more solo travel, with 76% of millennials and Gen Z planning to embark on solo adventures. Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, there are many countries to choose from this summer. Of all the countries to consider, France is retaining its place as the number one travel destination this summer. With the City of Lights hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics on top of already having other worthy things to do and see, it is evitable why the country of great wine and croissants will attract many tourists this summer. For anyone still on the fence about traveling to France, this post will offer 7 reasons France is a traveler’s dream destination. Before doing so, let’s understand the place of France in terms of global history and tourism.
How France Became a Hotspot
To understand the France we have today, we must understand how the France of today was created. Therefore, we must discuss General Charles de Gaulle and the Second World Wars to do so. A brief history of what happened during WWII will tell you that France was severely bruised from the Second World War. German troops occupied Paris, and General de Gaulle had to lead from London. Food was scarce because many factories Parisians relied on were bombed during the wars. Although some industries, like the fashion industry, were able to bounce back and help build the status of Paris and France, General de Gaulle wanted to reestablish Paris and make it a new and better city with a global reputation. Hence, you cannot talk about France without talking about Paris because Paris was redesigned to be the face of France and succeeded. Today, France benefits from this work. Below will list ways the power that be used to make Paris and France a hotspot that today makes it a traveler’s dream destination.
7 Reasons Why You Should Visit France!
- Rich History
One of the most alluring aspects of France is its rich and diverse history. It’s like an enthralling novel with a plot full of surprises, where the climax is unknown, and you never want the story to end. French history has left an indelible mark on the world as one of the world’s oldest nations and the most ethnically diverse European country. Its cultural influence is evident in various aspects of life, from cuisine and wine-making to fashion. Let’s remember that it is the birthplace of the Enlightenment Period, a pivotal era that shaped the modern world. This deep-rooted history makes walking the streets of France feel like walking through a living museum, offering tourists a unique and immersive experience.
As a tourist, walking the streets of France is like walking through a museum. Bretagne has a mixed cultural history with Romans, Celtics, Britons, and French culture. The Bretons’ preservation of social structures allows you to understand earlier life and experience traditions that date back centuries, and the Bretons speak another language that distinguishes them from the rest of France. In Normandy, you learn about the prominent people who came out of the region, like Joan of Arc, Richard the Lionheart, and William the Conqueror, to name a few. Normandy also played an essential part in turning to War in France’s favor, making it highly crucial for today’s France.
Regardless of which region of France you choose to visit, you will be enthralled by the rich history of that region. In the Loire Valley, you will learn about royal histories from 300 Chateaux and the Renaissance architecture. In Haut-de-France, you have holy experiences from the many cathedrals and learn of the region’s mining significance to France’s history. In Bordeaux, you can enjoy a beautiful stay in Port City and choose from many wines from that region. With their unique cultures and histories, these regions and others we have not listed allowed France to hold captivating stories that enthrall many tourists, making France a traveler’s dream destination.
- Access to world-renowned attractions
The second reason France has kept its rank as the number 1 most visited country is for its world-renowned attractions. Few countries are characterized by their attractions, and only some people can recognize a country based on its attractions, as they do with France. When you think of France, you think of the Eifel Tower, Louvre, Chateaux de Versailles, and Champs Elysee. Aside from the evident attractions that most of the world knows, France is home to 45,00 Chateaux dating from the 9th century to the 21st century. Every region has worthy attractions that amaze tourists. One of my favorite attractions outside of Paris is in Normandy, Mont Saint Michel. This centuries-old abbey is one of France’s most stunning sights. The holy island has been one of Europe’s most vital pilgrimage destinations and today earns France about 3 million visitors a year. If you hope to go to Disneyland outside the United States, Paris has the closest Disneyland to us(the others are in Shanghai, Tokyo, and Hong Kong). Therefore, regardless of where you go to France, you will surely be amazed by fantastic world-renowned attractions.
- Diversity
Another reason France attracts many tourists from different parts of the world is because of its diversity. France is the most ethnically diverse European country. Different regions have many influences from Romans, Celtics, Germans, and others, and you will indeed find many other cultures outside of Europe residing in France. The thing that makes France unique from its European counterpart in terms of diversity is that different ethnicities have been able to create their own home away from home. If you go to Chateaux Rouge, you will find African communities who have been able to create their own “quartier” where they conduct different business. In Belleville, there are active Chinese communities. In the South of France, North African communities have been able to create their own home and businesses and infuse their cultures into a new French culture. As a Black woman who lived in multicultural neighborhoods in the U.S., it was easy to integrate into France because I could find my multicultural community easier than I did visiting other European countries. Hence, tourists feel comfortable meeting people who may speak their native tongue or finding food that they are comfortable with.
- Fine Cuisines
Only some European countries can boast about their cuisines. France has distinguished itself from its European counterparts, such as the English, Irish, and Germans, in terms of cuisine. French cuisine’s reputation dates back to its medieval days, when nobility ate multiple couple meals, and peasants had a variety of vegetables and legumes. Unlike their counterparts, the French used expensive salt and spices in their kitchen, and being able to afford spices was a symbol of prestige. French cuisine gained its luxurious reputation with its history of using fresh ingredients and including presentations to mesmerize guests. What makes French cuisine unique or remarkable is not just what is being cooked but the techniques and the need to present food in a way that makes someone feel unique, worthy, and appreciated. The spread of French cuisines by Chef Francois in 1611 helped elevate the French culinary reputation not only in around France for themselves but France’s expansion in other parts of the world like in Africa, parts of Asia, North America, and the Caribbean helped the French spread their culinary influences around the world. Today, France still benefits from its high culinary appraisal and welcomes tourists worldwide to delight in its luxurious cuisine.
- Has Something for Everyone
A significant reason France amasses around 80 million tourists a year is because it has something for everyone. Regardless of what season you go to France, there is something for you to do, see, and experience. France is one of those countries you can enjoy as a solo female traveler or a group or a married couple. You can visit France during Christmastime or Valentine’s and have a fabulous time. Regardless of the region you see, you will surely indulge in an incredible experience. There is something for history lovers, art lovers, architecture lovers, religious people, atheists. Regardless of what you want to experience, France has what you need to enjoy during a short or long trip. Tourists enjoy France because there is much to see and do, from Cannes to Strasbourg, Lyon to Saint-Malo, Toulouse to Nice, and Rennes to Normandy. With a wide variety of things to do, see, or experience, many tourists do not get to do everything, so they return year after year. Hence, France remains the most visited country in the world.
- The City of Love
Although we list this point as #6, visiting the City of Love is one of the main reasons why tourists worldwide travel to France. As mentioned, Paris is synonymous with France even though other Frenchmen despise this reality. Charles de Gaulles’s goal to make Paris the image of France has succeeded and today’s France reaps the benefits of de Gaulles’ vision. With France receiving around 80 million tourists a year, more than half of those tourists visit Paris and the ile de France region, making Paris the most visited place in the world. With its museums, monuments, cafes, and idyllic neighborhoods like Montemarte, Paris contributes to the boost in tourism in France. The City of Love and Lights has 2,185 monuments, giving you plenty of options to choose from and return on multiple trips to see others you have not seen. It is not dubbed the city of love solely for couples but because regardless of where you visit, you will not help but fall in love with the experience.
- French Wine
Lastly, France is a travel destination because of its fine wine. As stated earlier, France has influenced the world with its history, culinary traditions, and wine. As of January 2024, French wineries attract 10 million tourists every year. Tourists have access to 11,000 French wineries, which gives them plenty to drink and indulge in. Regions like Champagne and Bordeaux host many wine-tasting events that are worth attending. Tourists can participate in wine-making workshops and spend their stay at vineyards and chateaux. Whether you are interested in the wine-making process, drinking it, or enjoying the beautiful landscapes of various vineyards, a French winery tour ensures a magical experience. As a wine lover, I regret not participating in this adventure, and visiting vineyards is a must-do when I go to France later this year.
To conclude, if you are seeking an adventure this vacation season and need help knowing where to begin your travel adventure, look no further than France. This European staple attracts visitors from all around the world. When visiting France, you not only immerse yourself in its history and culture, but France introduces you to a world of multiculturalism unlike many of its European counterparts. Regardless of whether it is your first time traveling or whether you are a seasoned traveler, France has so much to see and do, ensuring various memorable experiences. It offers a rich history, fine cuisine, diversity, and once-in-a-lifetime must-see attractions. It has something for everyone, making France a traveler’s dream destination.
Thank you for reading. In the comment box below, please let me know if you have been to France or are considering going.
Until next time, bon voyage!
Xoxo,
Cy!
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