Five things they do not tell you about summertime in France

La Belle Saison

After all the exhausting Bank Holidays of May, and a whole month back at work in June, July and August are two beautiful months for kicking back and enjoying life. 

There are no kudos points for staying in the office, working through a heatwave, or refusing to use all your holiday allowance. Il faut se reposer !

La mamie et le papi

Because the schools are closed for two months, Grandma and Grandpa's house in the countryside is suddenly filled with grandchildren running in and out. 

French kids spend time with their cousins, learning their family's history and how Papa got that terrible scar on his knee. They also often discover life without Wi-Fi. Vive les vacances !

Le weekend en amoureux

This is when Maman et Papa sneak off for a weekend alone together. 

The kids are safe at Granny's, the dog is with the neighbour; time to splash out on a decent hotel with marble bathrooms, huge double beds, and a balcony with a romantic view. It could be a long weekend... Je t'aime ! 

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Le village de vacances

Chi-chi or cheap, this is essentially a collection of small dwellings (or even tents) constructed around a fun pool, a restaurant, a bar, a shop, a gym, a nursery, and a reception centre. 

With plenty of 'animations' (entertainment), whether you opt for self-catering or all-inclusive, they are perfect for big family holidays. Bonnes vacances !

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Les animations estivales*

Even when you are not officially on holiday, you are just vaguely wandering in and out of the office, city and town councils across the Hexagon provide free activities to keep you in the mood. 

Offerings include beaches, dance classes, yoga sessions, outdoor cinema, pony rides, keep fit clubs, puppet shows, and fireworks. Tous dehors !

*estivale = summertime