This year marks a special milestone for us at France By Locals: our 10-year anniversary. A decade ago, what started as an idea has grown into a trusted DMC in France, known for crafting authentic and meaningful journeys.
At the heart of this story is not just a company — but four people. Four personalities, four paths, and one shared belief: that travel should be slower, more personal, and deeply connected to place and people. This is our vision of slow travel in France.
As we look back, we also celebrate the team that made this adventure possible. Each of us has brought something unique to the table — from storytelling and design to sustainability and partnerships. Together, we form the soul of France By Locals.
Simon Hardy
The Founder’s Vision
It all began with Simon Hardy, who imagined an agency that would move away from “checklist tourism” and towards something more human. His inspiration was clear: to create trips that reflect real France, through its people, landscapes, and traditions.
Simon’s vision gave birth to a DMC that doesn’t just book hotels or organize transfers, but builds bridges between travelers and locals. He wanted to put authenticity at the heart of travel, long before “slow travel” became a trend.
Ten years on, his values remain the foundation of France By Locals: respect for culture, sustainability, and a human-first approach.
Partner with us
Sebastian Prino
Designing Journeys with Passion
If Simon brought the idea, Eduardo brought the energy of a travel designer who knows what it feels like to discover a new land. Originally from Argentina, Seba fell in love with France and made it his mission to help others do the same.
He believes travel is about wonder and beauty, which is why he chose to record his anniversary video at the Château de Chambord — a symbol of French heritage. For Seba, every itinerary is more than logistics: it’s a story, a way for travelers to connect with places on a deeper level.
In Seba’s words, slow travel means giving people time — time to walk through cobblestoned streets, taste regional specialties, or simply sit and take in the view.
Julie Le Clec’h
Travel with Responsibility
Julie joined with a clear purpose: to combine her expertise as a travel designer with her passion for sustainability. As our CSR coordinator, she ensures that every choice we make aligns with our values of responsibility and respect.
Her belief is simple but powerful: travel can and should be a force for good. From fostering community partnerships to creating road trips that highlight local producers, Julie works to design itineraries that matter.
She reminds us daily that slow travel in France is not just about pace, but also about purpose. By encouraging travelers to engage with local communities and support responsible initiatives, she ensures that our journeys leave a positive impact.
Amandine Baillargues
The Spirit of Adventure
If Julie brings purpose, Amandine brings energy. As our adventure travel specialist and partnerships manager, her goal is to help travelers reconnect — with nature, with others, and with themselves.
Amandine believes that adventure doesn’t always mean extreme. It can be a hike in the Calanques, kayaking on a peaceful river, or simply exploring a hidden trail in the Alps. For her, what matters is creating experiences that awaken the senses and foster genuine connections.
She also plays a vital role in building strong relationships with local partners. These partnerships are what allow us, as a DMC in France, to craft unique itineraries that go beyond the ordinary.
Partner with us
A Decade of Slow Travel in France
Looking back on 10 years, we see more than just trips planned and itineraries delivered. We see faces, moments, and countless stories. Couples who discovered Provence at their own pace, families who connected with French artisans, groups of friends who bonded over wine tastings and laughter.
For us, this is the essence of slow travel in France: less rushing, more savoring. Less ticking boxes, more making memories.
Partner with us
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Our anniversary is a moment to celebrate, but also to thank those who have walked alongside us: our clients, our local partners, and our international travel agency collaborators who trust us as their DMC in France. Without you, none of this would be possible.
As we look to the next 10 years, we remain committed to the same values that inspired Simon at the start: authenticity, sustainability, and human connection. We know the future of travel lies in slowing down, traveling better, and embracing meaningful experiences.
France By Locals is not just a company; it’s four people, one vision, and an ever-growing community of travelers who believe that journeys should change us — and sometimes even the places we visit.
Here’s to the road ahead.
