Did you know that you could travel to an exotic and sunny destination, outside of France, and still speak French? There are many countries who kept French as an official language, or have French as one of the most used languages by the population. Here are 10 exotic locations to practice your French and improve your tan.
The “Colonial Era” (roughly from the 1500s to the late 1800s) was a period in history where countries like Spain, Portugal, England, Germany and France sought new territories to build their empires. Colonization had huge negative repercussions on many indigenous people and their lands. Like the Europeans exploiting them to profit from their resources. The French, for example, have (or had, since many countries have fought for their independence) lands all over the world: North and South America, the Indian Ocean, and Africa. This has made speaking English, Spanish or French in all parts of the world easier and more accessible.
10 Exotic Locations To Practice Your French
If you’re learning French and prefer visiting a more exotic country than France, visit one (or all) of these more exotic locations to practice your French. And don’t be afraid to engage in a conversation! You can use basic sentences in order to introduce yourself, or use our travel guide for simple sentences to learn while visiting France or another country…
Seychelles
You know when you dream about being on a beautiful, pristine and perfectly warm island? Seychelles is that place. Located in the Indian Ocean, the 115 islands archipelago has a lot to offer: unspoiled beaches, coral reefs, snorkelling, hiking, and rare animals. From mountains to rainforests to beaches, this paradise will blow anyone away. It is said to have been inhabited for most of history. It’s only when the Europeans started exploring that they islands were used for trade. Seychelles are named after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, Louis XV’s Minister of Finance.
Luxembourg
Luxemburg is the smallest country in Europe. This tiny country fits snuggly between France, Germany, and Belgium. It is heavily influenced by its neighbours so you can expect to hear French and German spoken as well as the local language called Luxembourgish. If you always enjoyed watching Disney movies set in picturesque villages and towns, then this is the place for you. Its rich history (the earliest recording is from the 10th century!) and beautiful architecture will fulfill all your Disney dreams. It is the second wealthiest country in the world so expect to see a high standard of living with the citizens of this country.
New Caledonia
This cluster of islands in the South Pacific is another dream location where you can practice your French. If you love nature and birds, it is home to some of the most fascinating species: the New Caledonian crow, for example, is one of the most intelligent birds that can make its own tools to solve problems. When the French settled here, it was first a prison (more like paradise if you ask us) where the prisoners were given land after they have completed their sentence (talk about a gift!). Green, blue and turquoise lagoons, tropical heat and virgin beaches will have you relaxing in no time.
Morocco
Morocco is much more than deserts and camels. This well-situated country is the gateway from Europe to Africa. Films like Morocco and Casablanca have immortalized the exciting and romantic aspects of this colourful and rich country. Marrakech, Fes, Casablanca, Tangier and Chefchaouen will transport you into a very different world. The influence from the Moors and Jews on this Arabic country really make this a one of a kind place. Dunes, beaches, mountains and rugged coastlines will keep your jaw dropped and your eyes bulging out of their sockets. If your adventurous and love challenges this is the place for you.
Guadeloupe
This Caribbean island who many think resembles a butterfly has two main islands: Hilly Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre. Since it is located in the Caribbean, expect turquoise waters, white sand beaches and volcanoes. This country is still a French territory and a Eurozone so the euro is the official currency. It is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean even though it has been through a lot with slavery and high unemployment rates. You can eat like a Frenchie too on this island with fresh croissants and creamy lattes. If you’ve ever wanted to take in views from the Caribbean and Atlantic sea at the same time, here’s your chance: the easternmost end of Grand-Terre island is the place to go.
French Polynesia
This South Pacific overseas collectivity of France has more than 100 islands some more known than others like Bora Bora, Tahiti, Maupiti and Mo’orea. This is another paradise destination that will blow your mind. The island culture is so laid back and slow that being here one week will be as though you took a year’s vacation. It is one of the last inhabited places on earth and became a French colony in the late 1800s. You can explore white, pink and black beaches, turquoise lagoons, spectacular coral reefs, and overwater bungalows are just a small part of the beauty that awaits you.
French Guiana
Cultures coexist in this South American and French mixed country. It is part of the European Union and the official currency is the euro. It used to be a penal and slave colony but now is the wealthiest country in South America. The jungle, the rainforest, the European Space Agency (yes, French Guiana has a great space centre) and the beach towns will surprise you and make you discover a slice of South America you might have never known about. If you’re interested in ecology, biology and other natural sciences, this is the place for you. It’s not surprising that French Guiana is part of our exotic locations to practice your French.
La Réunion
Still looking for some exotic locations to practice your French? Well, La Réunion is in France… Sort of. This island off the coast of Madagascar is a French department with volcanoes, coral reefs, jungles and gorgeous Indian Ocean water surrounds the island. This is the perfect place for people who wish to spend their days lazily reading and napping on the beach, or for people that love sports and adventures. Read our article on Réunion Island to learn more about all the fun activities you can do on the island! There is hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, surfing, etc. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere (which you kind of are) so you don’t have to worry about work back home.
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is a collection of islands right off the coast of Newfoundland in Canada. Even though these islands are surrounded by English speaking territories, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are French-speaking and part of France. They use the euro here and Canadians must show their passport. There was a constant struggle between the French and English to control the island during Canada’s history but France took over the island for good in 1816. Enjoy traditional French pastries and other typical French dishes. The rocky beaches and small fishing villages will be a nice change from the fast pace city you’re used to.
Algeria
Algeria is Morocco’s neighbouring country and was also colonized by the French. It is Africa’s largest country which gives it very different landscapes: the Sahara desert on one end and the other is the Mediterranean sea. Since some parts of Algeria were part of the Roman Empire, there are some spectacular Roman sites to visit in the towns of Timgad and Djemila. The people are as great as the vast landscapes you will discover. They are warm people who love to get to know others and aren’t shy about asking questions.
Which countries would be your favorite exotic locations to practice your French? And did you know you can speak French in these 24 African countries?
