French lessons
 

Anyone know of good french schools in Provence for short term french lessons?

I haven't studied in France, but I did a lot of research on schools last year (and ended up doing a course in Strasbourg and one in Grenoble). I'd recommend two approaches to locating a school. One particularly easy way is to check out one of the school finder/travel agencies that specialize in these types of programs. I used Cactus Language (UK based) to book a Spanish immersion course in Salamanca in the fall, and everything went smoothly. Another similar agency is Languages Abroad. Send away for their brochures (or review them on-line): they partner with a variety of schools in different places, and take care of the administration, travel, accommodation etc. This is a good way to go if you don't want to do a lot of your own research on schools, are planning a short visit (eg 1-4 weeks), etc. Cactus works with several schools in Provence (Languages Abroad has just one, I think.)<BR><BR>The second option is to check out the schools (in France) is to check out the schools affiliated with one of a few quality assurance programs in France. One such organization is Souffle (souffle.asso.fr). You can find good short-term courses this way (the Grenoble and Strasbourg schools I attended are part of Souffle), but you'll have to do a little more legwork (especially regarding accommodations, transportation etc). This approach might suit you well if you're interested in a somewhat longer program, too - eg. 4-12 weeks.<BR><BR>Note: I looked into Alliance Francaise programs in France (I'd studied with them in London), but found that their courses generally seemed better suited to medium-term study (eg not well suited for someone who just wants to go for a week or three). Also they don't seem to have a centralized structure for finding out about schools all over France. (However, I'd probably seriously consider studying with them if I went to Paris.)<BR><BR>I'd be happy to answer more questions, based on my research and experience from last year, on language holidays and language study - if you post a note back to this thread. (Language holidays have turned into a bit of a hobby for me - I'm off to Barcelona/Madrid soon, and then S. America in the fall.)

Oops. That's what happens when you type before drinking coffee. I meant to say in the first sentence that I haven't studied in Provence (but, as is apparent from the rest of the message, I have studied in France ...).

topping

There is a whole group of French schools listed on the NRCSA site. I am actually planning to attend one either in Paris or Avignon next year. They specialize in study for adults and professionals. You can also study culture or cuisine in addition to language if you so desire.. the classes usually are 2 weeks in duration. <BR><BR>http://www.nrcsa.com/