I travelled in France for a few years and have found it one of the most diverse countries I have been to. From the mountain ranges with some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world to the wine regions, picturesque villages and historic buildings, amazing international cities to beautiful beaches and coast lines of the Cote D' Azures.

There seems to be everything on hand all with in a few hours drive or train ride. France is a fantastic country and so easy to navigate by car, the road systems seem to work well unless in large cities during rush hour. The toll roads will add to your journeys cost but saves a lot of time and you encounter allot less traffic. There are two main toll roads running the length of France and it’s easy to jump on at any point.

The diversity of the country is very noticeable when driving with in a couple of hours the scenery can change dramatically, going from the Alps over the Maritime Alps to the Cote D' Azures from mountain ranges of The Three Valleys, small passes and mountain villages through to the beaches of Cannes, Antibes and Nice.

In the Alps the people know a quiet and peaceful way of life. They live in their environment with a perfect balance and harmony a lot of families have lived in the same house for generations. Driving down to the Mediterranean Sea and the beautiful coast line you find some small picturesque villages in the surrounding area, but the large harbors and resorts make for international cities and clientele.

The great city of Nice is both an international city and is very beautiful, the old town still keeps it character and amazing architecture from centuries ago. The city now extends in to the back drop of hills and villages. Whatever you like you can find it in Nice, the natural beauty of the landscape and sea, to the wonder of how the French can build so many homes and buildings in such a small area.

I made some good friends in Nice who I visit every year or when I pass through, enjoying the French way of life is important for me. My friends show me the places they like to dine and drink, we drive through the busy backstreets up to the hills to one of their favorite spots and we pause, enjoy the warm evening and the beautiful view. Where we are is not in any guide book beauty spot. The insiders knowledge is important if you want to see that special angle of a city. Only the long time residents are in the know.