French connections

With tragic news making headlines, we could all use a break. So this week on French Connections, we're taking a look at the French lunch break. We find out about the surprising origins, the lasting tradition and the myriad of choices for the French midday meal.

From bedbugs to wild boars, this week in French Connections we explore the many species that are considered a nuisance to French people. There's even a term for these species: "les nuisibles". But not everyone agrees on which wild animals, birds and pests should be on the government's list of harmful species. We take a closer look.

Located in the very north of France near the Belgian border, Lille is a thriving international crossroads with a unique personality. The city has many charms, including Europe's largest annual flea market and a gorgeous old town with a mixture of French and Flemish roots. All this history is reflected in a rich culinary scene that includes hearty traditional meals, great local craft beers and iconic desserts. In this episode you'll discover typical dishes like the cheesy "welsh" and learn how to

This week we find out why bullying has been making headlines in France. We hear from students, parents, anti-bullying activists and France's education minister on why combating harassment in schools, and online, is one of the government's top priorities.

In this week's edition of French Connections we take a look at how and why champagne continues to be such an iconic, and protected, French wine. We also delve into what happens when there's too much of it and why French people aren't drinking as much wine as they used to.

In this edition of French Connections we explore "la rentrée", the renaissance that takes place after France's summer shutdown. Children return to school, politicians scheme about the year to come and people get back to work after their holidays. While some experience "rentrée blues", others take the opportunity to make a fresh set of resolutions for the year ahead. We take a closer look.

The Seine is literally the center of life in Paris, flowing right through the heart of the capital. Considered one of the most romantic rivers in the world, the Seine is overflowing with history and is a great way to discover the city of light. More recently, officials have given the Seine a facelift, making the banks more accessible and improving the quality of the water. Join Florence Villeminot and Genie Godula for this aquatic episode of French Connections Plus where they dive into the wondrous