Travel Tips, City Guides & Cultural Highlights
France is not just the Eiffel Tower it’s a country rich with history, food, art, and stunning landscapes. As a Kenyan living in France, you have the perfect chance to explore it all. Whether you want to take a break from studies, explore hidden gems, or plan weekend trips with friends, this guide will help you make the most of your travels in France—with tips that suit both budget-conscious adventurers and comfort seekers.
🚄 1. Getting Around France
France has one of the best transport systems in Europe. You can travel easily using:
- TGV (high-speed train): Great for long-distance trips (Paris–Marseille in 3 hours!)
- Intercités & TER: Slower but cheaper trains for regional travel
- Buses (Flixbus, BlaBlaCar Bus): Budget-friendly and great for students
- Carpooling (BlaBlaCar): A popular option for affordable, social travel
🛑 Tip: Book in advance to get the best prices especially during holidays!
🗼 2. Must-Visit Cities in France
Here are some top cities worth exploring:
🗼 Paris – The City of Lights
Visit iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Montmartre, and try a Seine River cruise.
Kenyan Tip: Look out for Afro-Caribbean and African neighborhoods like Château Rouge for Kenyan food and hair products.
🌊 Marseille – Coastal & Multicultural
Enjoy beaches, seafood, and vibrant immigrant communities. It feels closer to Mombasa than you might expect!
🍷 Bordeaux – Wine & History
Perfect for wine lovers and architecture fans. The city is calm, classy, and very walkable.
🏰 Strasbourg – French-German Vibes
Known for its mix of cultures, beautiful canals, and famous Christmas markets.
🏞️ Lyon – Food Capital of France
A great weekend destination, especially for food lovers. Try “bouchons” (local restaurants) and visit the old town.
🏕️ 3. Nature Escapes and Outdoor Adventures
Want to reconnect with nature? France is full of beautiful spots:
- The French Alps: Go skiing in winter or hiking in summer.
- The Loire Valley: Explore castles (châteaux) and river landscapes.
- Provence: Lavender fields, vineyards, and sunshine!
- The Pyrenees: Great for road trips, hiking, and quiet mountain towns.
🏖️ Bonus: Try the Atlantic coast (Biarritz) or Corsica island for a beach getaway.
🧳 4. Travel on a Budget
Being a student or newcomer doesn’t mean you can’t travel. Here’s how to save:
- Discounts: SNCF (French rail) offers a Youth Card (Carte Avantage Jeune)
- Accommodation: Try Hostels, Airbnb, or Couchsurfing for cheap stays
- Travel passes: Consider city passes that include museum entries + transport
🍞 Tip: Pack snacks or Kenyan treats from home especially if you’re picky about food!
📸 5. Kenyan-Friendly Travel Spots
Missing home? Look for:
- African restaurants and markets in major cities
- Cultural festivals celebrating African heritage (check Paris, Lyon, and Marseille)
- Embassy events or diaspora gatherings, especially around Kenyan national holidays
🇰🇪 Fun Idea: Plan a “Kenyan Day Out” with friends visit a market, cook together, and explore the city in Kenyan style!
🧭 6. Cultural Etiquette While Traveling
French culture values:
- Politeness (always say bonjour and merci)
- Quiet in public transport and shared spaces
- Punctuality for tours or bookings
🛑 Reminder: As a Black African traveler, you may encounter stares or curiosity, especially in rural areas. Stay confident—France is multicultural, and you belong here too.
📅 7. Seasonal Highlights
Plan your trips around these annual events:
- Spring (April–June): Flowers blooming, perfect weather for cities
- Summer (July–August): Beaches, festivals, music, and open-air cinemas
- Autumn (Sept–Oct): Wine harvests, cozy towns, fewer crowds
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Christmas markets, skiing, and lights everywhere!
✍️ Final Thoughts
Traveling through France as a Kenyan is more than sightseeing it’s a chance to learn, connect, and celebrate your identity while exploring a new culture. Whether you’re walking through the streets of Paris or watching the sunset on the Mediterranean coast, each journey adds to your story.
So pack your bags (and maybe your favorite kitenge), grab a friend or go solo and explore this beautiful country at your own pace.