France
How a gigantic, mechanical elephant help revitalise a struggling city
It is enormous at 18 metres tall and 48 tonnes, with dozens of human passengers riding on its head, shoulders and flanks.
- by Nick Place
This grand, 800-year-old hotel overlooks one of the most beautiful cities in France
With so many centuries of history seeped into its walls, it’s practically a portal to the Middle Ages.
- by Kristie Kellahan
This hike from one perched village to another is a masochistic venture (but worth it)
A five-day hike around Mont Ventoux, the southern France mountain that strikes fear into the hearts of Tour de France cyclists every few years, is equally confronting and rewarding.
- by Jimmy Thomson
The French dining tradition that we’ve all overindulged in
This sort of dining is an institution on almost all cruise ships, as is the tendency to wildly overindulge.
- by Ben Groundwater
★★★★½
Hotel reviews
Flamboyant new Paris hotel channels Wes Anderson with eye-popping aesthetics
This vivacious hotel is exquisitely crafted and superbly located, making it a fabulous addition to Paris’ high-end hotel scene.
- by Steve McKenna
Ten of the best things to do for free in Paris
You don’t have to empty your wallet to absorb culture or relax in Paris. Some of the city’s most enjoyable experiences won’t cost a cent.
- by Brian Johnston
‘Unprecedented’ change in world’s most powerful passport rankings
For the first time, six countries are tied at the top of the list, while Australia enjoys access to more destinations than ever.
- by Alan Granville and Katherine Scott
The incredible French tidal island worth walking over quicksand for
The bay of Mont Saint-Michel is like a pool where the plug is removed before low tide. To cross it, you must learn to spot and escape from real-life quicksand.
- by Nick Place
The tiny French town that changed the course of history
For one day over 200 years ago, this small town — current population about 8000 — held the course of European history in its palm.
- by Chrissie McClatchie
★★★½
Airline reviews
Airline review: This bargain flight was worth more than I paid
The call centre is useless, but you can’t complain about paying $254 to fly from New York to Paris.
- by Kristie Kellahan