Have you booked your French immersion stay in Bordeaux? Congratulations!
Before diving into the French language and culture, take a moment to prepare for your trip properly.
At Bordeaux French Immersion, I welcome students from all over the world.
Here’s your administrative and cultural checklist to help you arrive with peace of mind and make the most of your experience.
1. Essential administrative documents
Before you leave for your French immersion stay, make sure all your papers are up to date:
Passport and Visa
- EU citizens: a passport or national ID card is enough.
- Non-EU citizens: check whether you need a Schengen visa for your country.
- For stays longer than 90 days, a long-stay “student” or “language course” visa is required.
➡️ Visit the official France-Visas
Travel and Health Insurance
- Having international medical insurance is strongly recommended.
- Make sure it includes liability coverage and trip cancellation insurance.
- If you’re coming from an EU country, don’t forget your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Payment Methods
- International bank card (Visa, Mastercard)
- Inform your bank about your trip abroad to avoid any card blocks.
- Keep a small amount of cash in euros for your first few days.
2. What to Pack for Your Immersion Stay in Bordeaux
Important Documents
- Copies of your passport, visa, and insurance (both printed and digital)
- The address of your accommodation and the emergency number for your school (Bordeaux French Immersion)
Clothing
Bordeaux has a mild oceanic climate:
- Pack light clothes for spring and summer, a warm waterproof coat for winter, and comfortable shoes to explore the city.
- Don’t forget a slightly dressy outfit for evenings out or special occasions!
Useful Items
- European plug adapter (type E/F)
- Notebook or app to keep your vocabulary journal
- A small symbolic gift from your country — perfect for sharing your culture during your immersion!
3. Prepare Your Mind… and Your French Ear
Your language immersion starts before you arrive!
Warm up your French
- (Re)watch French series or videos
- Listen to French podcasts to get used to different accents
- Review a bit of grammar and common vocabulary
- Take a few online lessons with Learn French Anywhere to boost your confidence or practice conversation before your trip!
Set Your Personal Goals
Write down your 3 main goals for your stay:
1 – Improve your listening comprehension?
2 – Feel more comfortable speaking French?
3- Discover Bordeaux’s culture and daily life?
Defining your goals will help you make the most of your immersion experience.
4. Cultural Immersion: Embrace the French Way of Life 🇫🇷
Discover Bordeaux Differently
Bordeaux is:
- A UNESCO World Heritage city
- Scenic walks along the Garonne River
- Cafés, markets, museums
- The ocean just one hour away, with some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in France
- And of course… world-famous wines and vineyards!
Our Cultural Activities
At BFI, our cultural activities (château visits, market tours, coastal walks, cooking workshops…) are designed to help you live and practice French every day.
Everyday Etiquette Tips
- ALWAYS say “Bonjour!” when entering a shop.
- Use “vous” with strangers and “tu” with friends (and with me!).
- Meals are sacred moments — take time to chat and enjoy!
- People in Bordeaux appreciate punctuality and politeness.
5. Once You’re Here: BFI Tips
- Take time to settle in and observe — everything is a learning opportunity.
- Enjoy the cultural activities included in your program.
- Write down your favorite French expressions each day.
- Share your experiences with your hosts and teachers — the more you speak, the faster you’ll improve!
Final Checklist Before Departure
| To Check | Status |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | ☐ |
| Visa obtained (if required) | ☐ |
| Health & travel insurance | ☐ |
| Booking confirmed | ☐ |
| Transport tickets | ☐ |
| Adapter & unlocked phone | ☐ |
| Learning goals noted | ☐ |
| Some euros in cash | ☐ |
✈️ Ready for your immersion?
Coming to learn French in Bordeaux is more than just a course — it’s a unique human and cultural experience.
By following this checklist, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment — and go home with fluent French and unforgettable memories!
(And who knows… maybe even a little French romance? It’s great for your progress! 😉)
👉 Discover all our immersion programs at bordeauxfrenchimmersion.com