Anne-Elisabeth – French immersion by the Mediterranean in vibrant Montpellier

Optional: Separate high-end accommodation upon request !

Your teacher

French Language Coach: A Unique Concept
Bonjour et bienvenue ! My name is Anne-Elisabeth, and I have been welcoming international guests to France for many years as a host family, and since 2018 as a Alliance Française certified French language teacher. Through these experiences, I developed a deep interest in language learning and cultural exchange.

An Observation
Over the years, while hosting international students who were studying French at language school in Montpellier, I noticed the frustration some students experienced when I occasionally couldn’t understand them.

A Desire
I wanted my students to feel completely satisfied with both their homestay experience and their language program in France. But how could I make that happen?

A Solution
In order to create a more meaningful experience and effective learning environment,I decided to become a French language coach and I graduated from the Alliance Française with a certification in teaching French as a foreign language.Since then, I have gained several years of experience teaching French to students from all over the world, including expatriates integrating into life in France. I then developed personalized French immersion programs with individual lessons tailored to help students improve their French and make rapid and meaningful progress. Whether it’s listening comprehension, speaking skills (with a strong focus on pronunciation), writing, or reading, my programs are designed to address your unique goals.
Your French immersion is not only about tailored lessons but also experiencing French culture in a truly authentic way. One of the highlights? Sharing delicious meals with Michel, my husband and favorite chef. His culinary creations will immerse you in the flavors of France, making your stay both memorable and delicious.
With me as your guide, you will also discover the charm of the historic city of Montpellier and its beautiful surroundings. From its cobblestone streets and iconic architecture to hidden gems off the beaten path, you will discover the best of the region.
All lessons and activities are adapted to your preferences, ensuring your immersion program is not only effective for learning French but also an unforgettable cultural experience.

Teaching style

Tailor-made courses are guaranteed. Having your own French language coach during your stay along with specific objectives is a real advantage for improving your French and making lasting progress.

Do you want to express yourself confidently in spoken French?
Many learners watch French series and naturally pick up expressions along the way. The real challenge, however, is knowing which level of language is appropriate in different situations. French varies depending on the context, relationship, and the setting. Choosing the right register is key to sounding natural, respectful and confident.
I will help you develop a polished and nuanced French, that can be adapted to your personal style as well as your social and professional situations. Rather than focusing on slang or overly informal speech, we work on a form of French that is natural, relevant, and well received in everyday, real-life situations. Of course, I can explain informal or colloquial expressions when you encounter them, so that you undestand when (or if!) to use them.
I believe that a touch of politeness and a slightly more formal approach is always a safe choice.
For example, using "vous" where "tu" might be acceptable, is never a problem, as people will simply invite you to switch. However, the opposite can sometime feel inappropriate. Learning the nuances of the language as well as the culture will help you navigate the language confidently.
That is why I will always guide you in understanding language differences and help you adopt the right words and expressions for each situation. I use a lot of role-playing exercises to put you in real-life scenarios and encourage you out of your comfort zone. You will learn to express your self in a variety of contexts: daily life, social exchanges, and even professional situations.
If this method feels a bit intense, don’t worry! We also take time for more relaxed conversations, always adapted to your rhythm and goals.

Levels taught

All levels from beginner to advanced.

Our house is located in a quiet area with a garden.

Your will stay in a private guest flat within the house : it is nicely decorated, air-conditioned and fully equipped. There is a living-room with a sofa, 1 or 2 bedrooms as requested, one bathroom, one small kitchen and a washing machine.

I suggest you discover the seasonal Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh vegetables paired with meats and fish, along with convivial appetizers. I will also take you on a culinary journey to other regions of France to explore their specialties. Your dietary preferences will, of course, be fully respected.

Montpellier is the fifth sunniest city in France; it is located in the Occitanie region, close to the Mediterranean Sea. It has a rich history dating back over a thousand years, as it is located on one of the major pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. This influx of pilgrims led to the creation and expansion of charitable and hospitable institutions. Jewish doctors fleeing Spain took refuge in Montpellier, making it the second oldest medical university in Europe and the oldest medical university in the world still in operation.
Throughout its history, it has welcomed researchers and scientists from many eras and backgrounds. Nostradamus, Rabelais, and many others are among its illustrious former students. Today, it remains a leading center for medical research. Montpellier is also very innovative in the fields of high tech, video games, and television production. With its large student population, the city is lively, creative, and sporty. There is always an event happening somewhere in the city, with numerous sporting, musical, and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Montpellier is located along the Camino Frances (the French part of the Camino de Santiago): the Arles route includes a stop at St. Roch Church, which means that pilgrims with backpacks can be seen throughout the city.
Between vineyards and sea, Montpellier has numerous highlights. On the vineyard side, you can visit castles and cellars and enjoy tasting wines from the Occitanie region, France's leading wine-producing region. In the countryside, you can explore the vineyards, or if you prefer, the lavender fields around Montpellier. On the seaside, you can discover the Mediterranean beaches and indulge in seafood and local specialties

I often suggest one excursion to the Mediterranean coast and a visit to a very old cathedral, as well as a second excursion catered to your interests (historical, cultural, in nature...)

Getting there

Montpellier is easily accessible by direct flights from London, Paris, Amsterdam and other cities.
By train, you can arrive directly at Saint-Roch station or the Sud de France station. I will meet you at the arranged meeting point (airport, city, trainstation). Buses or trams are also available if you arrive early and wish to move into your apartment.

Getting around

Shops and restaurants are within walking distance. The tram, whch is just a 3-minute walk from the homestay, makes all of Montpellier very accessible. From the famous Fabre Museum to the city’s historic center, modern districts, and other cultural attractions, everything is easy to reach.

During your stay, you will also discover the beauty of the Mediterranean coast with your French teacher. If you like, you can even enjoy swimming in the sea, just a 20-minute drive away.

Things to know

I will meet you at Montpellier Gare St Roch station ( in town) which has easy tramway access to my home. There are daily trains from Paris or Paris CDG airport,
Marseille, Lyon and other cities, making it easy to reach Montpellier by rail. You can also arrive at Sud de France station (outside the city or Montpellier airport where I will pick you up by car.
An arrival at Montpellier airport may be easier for you as there are direct flights from several European airports (London Gatwick, Amsterdam Schiphol...). Depending on your arrival time I will pick you up at Montpellier airport.
Please note that the meeting point at any station is near the piano.

Payment method

Wise transfer is recommended as the cheapest for both customer and host.
Within Europe SEPA transfer is the best.
Please note that if you use you other means of payment with fees, they will be due by customer.

Reservations are confirmed subject to acceptance of the quotation and compliance with the following payment schedule:

Payment of an initial deposit of 30% of the total cost of the stay at the time of booking and within 5 days of acceptance of the quote

- Balance of the total cost of the stay 60 days before the stay at the latest.

Cancellation policy

- A stay can be postponed with medical justification at no charge if the postponement is requested at least 6 months before the start of the stay.
- A stay may be cancelled under the following conditions:
* Cancellation more than 120 days before the start of the customer's stay: refund of 70% of the sums paid by the customer, less a non-refundable handling fee of €120.
* Cancellation between 120 and 45 days before the start of the customer's stay: refund of 50% of the sums paid by the customer.