About us

My name is Simon HARDY and a few years ago I created a small travel agency specializing in Provence and the Alps: So Provence, So Alps!

My journey began a few decades ago as a child, then a young teenager in the Breton countryside. A lover of sport fishing and hiking on mountain holidays, I received inspiration from my parents to travel to France for a lifetime.

I studied techniques for preserving natural environments and their often conflicting relationships with humans. Then I had the chance to go and see other countries, in South-East Asia and Africa in particular, sometimes by going to work there for a while as a development worker. There I was able to experiment with various ways of seeing, of doing, of living, and ultimately understand that what pushed me to cross these boundaries came from a need to live unique immersive experiences, to meet, to share and to initiate.

It is undoubtedly between here and there, enriched by reflections with my future associates, that FRANCE BY LOCALS has its roots.

Upon returning to France, to Provence, at a time when we are witnessing an ecological-social crisis (in which, paradoxically, I participated) and the impact of tourism on my country as elsewhere, I am happy to share with my small team the “duty to make things happen”.

My professional background has given me an in-depth understanding of the needs and expectations of travelers.

As a tour guide, I learned to read the nuances of different cultures and adapt my interactions accordingly. As a receptionist, customer satisfaction was my top priority, and as a travel agent, I perfected the art of creating tailor-made itineraries. Today, I am honored to put this experience and this energy at the service of France By Locals, with the mission of transforming each trip into an unparalleled adventure.

What sets our agency apart, beyond exotic destinations and tailor-made experiences, is our commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism. Every day, I strive to merge my passion for travel with a deep respect for our planet. We believe in creating memories that transcend geographic boundaries while preserving the integrity of local ecosystems. It is a delicate balance that I am committed to maintaining, aware that our footprint can leave a positive imprint.

Driven by insatiable curiosity and a passion for adventure, I’ve been fortunate enough to explore the world from a young age.

Originally from the south of France, I remain deeply connected to the region where I grew up. My converted van has allowed me to discover the hidden gems of my own country, off the beaten path, and has made me fall in love with the richness and diversity of its landscapes. My goal is simple: to share this love for France with my guests by introducing them to its wonders—whether it’s the gastronomy, activities, or the encounters with its people, the true heart of our experiences. My wish is to offer them a taste of authenticity and the French art of living.

Mindful of environmental and cultural challenges, I am committed to respecting and preserving the natural and human ecosystems. This is why France By Locals and I share the same values: we are dedicated to offering authentic, responsible, and respectful stays, to promote a sustainable and genuine vision of travel.

Since my early twenties, travel has been the thread that weaves through my life. A year in Mexico as an exchange student first sparked my passion, followed by a year working in Australia and a six-month backpacking journey through Southeast Asia.

I’ve always loved physical challenges—like biking from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel or crossing the Pyrenees on the GR10, 55 days of hiking and camping that taught me resilience, joy, and the beauty of slow adventure. After 13 years in Barcelona, I returned to my native Provence after Covid, now on a mission to re-discover the wonders of France—especially for families and through authentic agritourism experiences.

With over ten years in tourism, I’ve developed partnerships across Europe, sourced unique activities, and designed meaningful trips. What drives me most is connecting travelers with people and places in a genuine way—helping them experience France as a living story of encounters, traditions, and landscapes. At France By Locals, I am proud to curate journeys that go beyond clichés and bring visitors closer to the heart of our regions.