Best cool and quirky links and stories about france

Welcome to this links and stories page! Whether you've landed here from Instagram or any other way, this is where you will find stories about France, as well as a peek at the more unusual facets of my country.

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This site, Offbeat France, is dedicated to showing you France behind-the-scenes, all those quirks and foibles you won't find in your basic 'top 10' and 'best things to do' lists.

Yes, I DO provide some of these (I mean, you want to know about them, right?) but that's not my focus. I want you to walk away from this site with this thought: "I didn't know that!" 

If that happens and you learn something new about France or the French, we will have made each other happy.

I also want to share the history and the stories behind what you see.

If you'd like to delve deeper into the site, please visit any of these pages:

• Start Here
• About me
• Home

Please sign up for Beyond the Baguette, my twice-monthly newsletter where I share my latest travels in France. Join me by clicking here!

Want to go even deeper into France’s more obscure corners?
I’ve launched Gallia Incognita, a story series on Substack where I explore  French history — everything from forgotten scandals to odd traditions. In other words, history.

And if social media is more to your taste, I'm there too! Just click through to the social media buttons at the top of this page, on the right. See you there!

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Bonjour! I'm Leyla.

Born in Paris and now based in eastern France between Lyon and Annecy, I've spent years exploring the places and  stories that explain why France is the way it is.

Offbeat France is for curious francophiles, whether you're planning a trip or simply fascinated by France. Here you'll discover the history behind the villages, castles, traditions, landscapes and everyday details that most visitors notice but few can explain.

Alongside practical travel advice, I share the context that helps you make sense out of France. The more you understand, the more rewarding every visit becomes.

If you finish an article thinking, "I never knew that... now I want to know more," then I've done my job.

Learn more about me!
Read my Substack historical essays

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What's New!

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1. Poitiers in France: Why This Historic City Deserves More Visitors

   Aug 02, 26 03:05 PM

   Discover the best things to do in Poitiers, France, from Roman ruins and medieval streets to Eleanor of Aquitaine's legacy and remarkable architecture.

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2. Limoges, France: Much More Than Porcelain

   Jul 25, 26 09:14 AM

   Limoges France is more than porcelain. Discover medieval streets, enamel masterpieces and centuries of history.

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3. Saint-Quentin, France: The Art Deco City No One Talks About

   Jul 15, 26 05:31 AM

   Saint-Quentin France rebuilt itself in Art Deco after WWI left it in ruins. It's now one of France's most striking architectural cities.

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4. Visiting France In A Heatwave: What You Need To Know

   Jun 26, 26 12:45 PM

   Visiting France during a heatwave? Learn how to stay cool and enjoy your trip despite the heat.

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5. Angoulême: From Medieval Stronghold To France's Capital Of Comics

   Jun 26, 26 12:44 PM

   Medieval streets, a Romanesque cathedral, five centuries of papermaking, and giant comic murals. Angoulême surprises most visitors.

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