Meet Véro

I was born in southwestern France. By the time I turned 20 my family had lived in four different French regions before settling down in Paris. I realized early on that France is a very diverse country and that its beautiful regions, their history, traditions and specialties, are well worth celebrating. It pains me to see that many visitors ONLY visit Paris, over and over and claim to understand “the French” and “French culture.” 

When people mention the famous Charles de Gaulle quote: “How can anyone govern a nation that has two hundred and forty-six different kinds of cheese?” they may not know DeGaulle tried to introduce a major reform of French regions before he left power in 1969. He was well aware of the strength of regional cultures and the necessity to decentralize some of the power in the country outside Paris. 

My business is named “France with Vero.” I make a point to share the beauty of ALL the parts of France I know and love. That includes Paris where I’ve lived on and off for more than 15 years, and a lot more!

Good question. I asked my patrons in a survey recently.

Several pointed out that having lived in another culture (the United States) for more than two decades, I have the ability to compare and contrast life in different cultures. Instead of just sharing anecdotes or lists of characteristics related to French culture, I also try to provide context to explain behaviors that I know will (insert one) surprise/confuse/annoy visitors. 

This has come in really handy as a tour guide leading private or group tours for English speakers around my homeland.

I don’t need to have a favorite: With France with Véro, I am alternatively a local or itinerant tour guide, a virtual tour guide, a French language instructor or a content creator. All these hats come from the same wardrobe (mine!) and complement each other.

As a lifelong learner, I enjoy the opportunity to keep researching and learning and later share that knowledge during online French classes, tours or stories published on social media. 

Wearing many hats also means there is no routine in my life. Every day, every week is different. This may not work for everyone, but it works great for me. I'm very grateful to be doing what I love the most, learning, teaching and traveling for a living.

Certainly! France with Vero was born during a worldwide crisis in 2020. The world has changed since, and it’s likely the focus of my activities will change too over time.

The French content I share on a regular basis is always well received on social media. There could be an audience for virtual tours in French led by an experienced educator.

Some students in the French conversation bootcamps I run online have been asking for weeklong French immersion workshops in Tours, my city. When joining me, participants would get to spend time with a teacher who is also a tour guide, a great opportunity to improve their French language skills while exploring the beautiful Loire Valley.

Down the road, I may offer small group tours. Paris (with some of my favorite off-the-beaten path adventures) or other regions in France many English speakers aren’t that familiar with.

A suivre. Wait and see… Like always, France with Vero patrons will be the first to find out new services, will get priority registration, and will enjoy discounts. Membership does have its privileges chez Véro. 🙂

I take great pride in documenting my French life and travels and all photography on the site is fully owned and copy written by France with Véro. (See the Terms & Conditions for more information regarding intellectual property.)

Interested in publishing one of my photos? Please reach out and let's talk.