Travel Tips: Popular French Phrases

Posted on Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Okay, I’ll admit I had a little trouble learning Spanish in high school (and college) but I got through it. Since that time I’ve developed an interest in new languages. I’ve left Spanish behind for now and started digging into Latin. No one really speaks Latin anymore but it’s useful when you deal with words all day.

Before your next trip try learning a few words fromthe local language. You’ll be amazed what a difference it makes. All of the sudden you are able to communicate with someone from the other side of the world. And it at least shows you are trying!

Picking up a few French phrases for example, is also a great way to keep your mind active and healthy before your trip.

Common French terms

• Good Morning – Bonjour (bohn-ZHOOR”)
• Good Afternoon – Bonsoir (phonetics)
• Hello, my name is…- Salut, Je m’appell (zhuh muh-PELL)
• How are you? – Ça va? (sah vah)
• Goodbye – Au revoir (oh ruh-VWAR)
• Do you speak English – Parlez-vous anglais? (PAHR-lay voo zahn-GLAY)
• How much? – combien? (co-by)
• Where is the hotel? – Où se trouve l’Hôtel? (oo eh low tel)
• Thank you – merci (mair-see)

Pont Du Gard, France

Posted on Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Located in the beautiful region of Provence, the Pont du Gard, which means bridge over the River Gard, is part of an ancient Roman aqueduct built nearly 2,000 years ago to transport water to the Roman city of Nemausus, now called Nimes.  There is a mysterious engraving on the Pont du Gard, which appears to represent a rabbit or some type of animal.  It is a symbol Romans often etched on their constructions in the belief that it would ward off evil spirits.  The engravings and its location on the aqueduct are impossible for even some locals to find.  

Tour Director:  Giovanna Agrawal, Trafalgar Tours