Le Chanvrier Français

You may have heard about CBD, but are you fully aware of its incredible well-being potential? Adeline, owner of Le Chanvrier Français in downtown Fontainebleau, is passionate about sharing the benefits of CBD and will help guide you on the path to improved well-being.

What is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound sourced from cannabis plants, specifically hemp. With over 400 organic molecules, hemp has a multitude of therapeutic and industrial properties and uses.

Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not induce psychoactive effects or alter a person’s state of mind. Instead, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and enzymes, to support various physiological functions. Because of its recognised potential therapeutic benefits, it is often taken as a food supplement.

Its versatility makes CBD a much sought-after natural compound. Well known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, CBD can potentially reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality. Ongoing scientific research suggests that it may even have neuroprotective properties and possibly help manage conditions like epilepsy and chronic pain.

Balanced Lifestyle

CBD has a holistic impact on overall well-being. Its multifaceted effects span physical, mental, and emotional health matters, making it the perfect complement to a balanced lifestyle. Introducing CBD into your daily wellness routine can support your general health and foster a sense of calm.

It’s important to note that CBD is legal in many countries and considered a safe, natural substance. This reassurance and the potential benefits make it a viable option for anyone looking for a natural wellness product. However, as with any supplement, it is advisable to talk to a healthcare professional before taking it, especially if you have specific medical conditions, allergies or use other medications.

Why not visit Le Chanvrier Français on Rue Grande and discover the magic of CBD for yourself? Adeline will happily provide a detailed information session and introduce you to her wide range of premium products. Learn how the natural power of this remarkable plant-derived blend can help nourish your body, mind, and soul.

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eco-friendly, Responsible & Ethical Clothing

Thelma Rose is a remarkable Made in Fontainebleau clothing brand created by two of our well-respected property owners, Stephanie and her sister, Solene. This dynamic duo brings a fresh perspective to fashion and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to sustainability. 

Stephanie and Solene have combined their passion for fashion and intrinsic love for the environment to establish Thelma Rose. Their brand symbolises the spirit of French elegance. But it also stands as a testament to the importance of eco-friendly, responsible and ethical clothing.

Thelma Rose encapsulates the essence of French style. They offer a range of clothing that exudes understated sophistication and the desirability associated with French fashion. From simply chic dresses to versatile separates. Their collections empower women to express their unique style while aligning with eco-friendly principles.

Their brand ethos also supports the growing trend of creating a capsule wardrobe. A concept allowing you to refocus on the essentials and design your wardrobe around eco-responsible or ethical clothing. Quality apparel that never goes out of fashion.

Natural & Organic Materials 

Ultimately, what sets this business apart is Stephanie and Solene’s dedication to sustainability and commitment to using environmentally friendly materials; adopting ethical production practices, and minimising waste throughout their supply chain. They favour natural and organic materials and certain artificial materials such as Tencel or Micromodal. It’s the quality of these materials that ensures their garments are not only timeless classics but also durable.

Comfort & sustainability

Fonty Housing are thrilled to have Stephanie and Solene as members of our community. And we proudly support their brand as it continues to make waves in the fashion world. So if you want to elevate your everyday style, Thelma Rose embodies comfort, sustainability, and the enduring beauty of French fashion. Explore their collections on their website, Facebook and Instagram, and join us in celebrating this exceptional Made in France brand!

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Nestled in the heart of France, Fontainebleau is a historical, picturesque and fascinating town, especially for students attending INSEAD, one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Hopefully our blog guide for INSEAD students will help you acclimatize quickly and discover new interests.

Life in Fontainebleau is a unique blend of irresistible charisma and modern convenience, making it the ideal location for students. If you are fortunate to reside in this delightful town, there is much more to discover beyond the conventional textbooks and lectures. In this blog post, we will explore a few life-changing experiences that await INSEAD students. Our comprehensive guide to its convenient location and many culinary delights will hopefully become an invaluable local neighbourhood guide that every student will appreciate. We genuinely believe that Fontainebleau has something for everyone.

Small town – Big heart

Although Fontainebleau might be small compared to some towns, it has a wealth of character. It exudes a warm and friendly atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome. For INSEAD students, this means a supportive community where you can easily make friends and feel at home. The compact size also provides a sense of security, allowing students to explore freely and effortlessly find their way around.

Everything Within Walking or Cycling Distance

One of the main advantages of living in Fontainebleau is its convenience. Almost everything in the town is within walking distance, and cycling is also made easier due to the well-maintained infrastructure. Cycling is not just a mode of transport here – it is a way of life. Students can effortlessly pedal their way around, enjoying the scenic beauty of the town and its surroundings.

Culinary Adventures

Aside from the fantastic dining options available at the INSEAD campus canteen, which features an array of dishes from every corner of the globe, Fontainebleau is a gourmet heaven. The town boasts an extensive range of restaurants that cater to almost all tastes and preferences. From cosy cafes and brasseries to upscale dining establishments, there is something here for everyone. What makes it even better for busy students is that most restaurants offer takeaway services. Imagine indulging in delicious French cuisine in the comfort of your own home. If you prefer a quick bite, there are several fast-food businesses to choose from, such as Subway, Dominoes and Shawarma places, as well as unique finds like Frite’NBleau, serving delicious burgers and fries. 

Grocery Shopping Made Easy

INSEAD students do not have to worry about satisfying their grocery needs. Fontainebleau boasts several supermarkets, ensuring access to all the essentials and lots more. Beyond these, there are specialist shops offering a range of high-quality products. Cheese connoisseurs, meat lovers, and fruit and vegetable enthusiasts will find a paradise in the smaller, specialised shops scattered throughout the town. One you should try is Picard, founded in Fontainebleau. They offer a selection of frozen meals and desserts and are based right across the street from the INSEAD campus. 

The Farmers’ Market

Held three times a week, the market offers a wide range of foodie options. Savour ready-made dishes, enjoy oysters with a glass of wine, pick up a flavourful paella for dinner, or delve into the wide selection of handcrafted items, specialty cheeses, fresh seafood, and quality meats. Be sure not to overlook the mouth watering freshly grilled chicken, and make sure to pair it with a side dish of roasted vegetables. The market is not just a place to shop, it is a social hub, where locals and visitors come together, sharing stories and indulging in the finest flavours of the region. With its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings, Fontainebleau Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the town’s culinary treasures.

INSEAD Fontainebleau Guide: Your Ultimate Resource

As an INSEAD student, you are fortunate to have access to an invaluable resource: the INSEAD Fontainebleau Guide. This detailed manual is your key to unlocking the secrets of the school and the town. It provides insider tips, essential contacts, and a wealth of information about every aspect of life in Fontainebleau. From academic resources to local amenities, the guide is meticulously curated to enhance your student experience.

10 Things You Should Know Before Moving

Quick Trip to Paris: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds

Fontainebleau’s strategic location is perfect harmony between the serenity of town life and the excitement of city adventures. Just a quick train trip from the vibrant heart of Paris, Fontainebleau offers the charm of a smaller community with easy access to the hustle and bustle of the French capital. Whether you yearn for the artistry of the Louvre, the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower, or the quaint cafes along the Seine, Paris is a short journey away. The efficient train connections ensure exploring iconic landmarks, relishing exquisite cuisine, and immersing yourself in Parisian culture is both convenient and enjoyable. Experience the best of both worlds in Fontainebleau!

Please be aware that occasional strikes may affect public transport. Stay up to date on local events, strikes, and much more by following FontainebleauDiaries on Instagram.

Things to see and do

Fontainebleau, with its rich history and stunning natural surroundings, offers a myriad of exciting activities for locals and visitors alike. One of the must-see attractions is the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its beautiful gardens, and a glimpse into France’s royal past.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the vast Fontainebleau Forest, a paradise for cyclists, hikers and rock climbers, with picturesque trails and iconic sandstone boulders. For art aficionados, the town hosts numerous galleries and exhibitions showcasing both traditional and contemporary art. Beyond Fontainebleau, visit nearby villages like Barbizon, known for its art history, or the mediaeval town of Moret-sur-Loing; Samois-sur-Seine and its romantic bridge. Or Samoreau, with walks along the banks of the river Seine for a wonderfully relaxing day out. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor pursuits, art, or gastronomy, Fontainebleau and its surrounding areas can offer something extra special for everyone.

Sporting Paradise

Fontainebleau provides plenty of sports activities catering to enthusiasts of all kinds. Tennis courts and rugby fields are available for those inclined to play or support. Jogging through the enchanting forest or the Chateau gardens and park is another positively stimulating experience. The town has squash courts, indoor climbing facilities and outdoor ones between the forest’s natural rock formations, invigorating hikes, and scenic biking trails. For those interested in historical sports, Fontainebleau boasts an original arena for jeu de paume, an ancient racket sport. 

Badminton courts, swimming pools, and football fields add to the impressive range of sporting options. Many of these facilities are conveniently located around the INSEAD campus. So it is ideal for students wishing to engage in their favourite sports. Likewise, students have access to a fully equipped, modern gym situated on the campus. Without a doubt, Fontainebleau provides numerous opportunities to enjoy an active lifestyle, encouraging residents to achieve a healthy balance between studies and physical activities.

Parking

Fontainebleau offers a wide range of parking areas around the town. Street parking is available, but we recommend checking the time limits as occasionally they can vary. The first 20 minutes of parking on the street are free. Keep an eye out for the green zone, where parking is available for up to 2 hours but requires payment.

If you find yourself in the central orange zone, do not worry! There’s ample room in the underground parking facilities, with five underground car parks conveniently located around town. However, the real parking paradise lies in the white zones. These areas offer free parking, giving you the freedom to explore without worrying about parking fees. The INSEAD campus itself has 850 free car parking spaces on its grounds for employees, students, and visitors.

Be prepared

Life in Fontainebleau for INSEAD students is the beginning of an incredible adventure. The town’s charm isn’t just its scenic beauty, but the warmth of its people and the ease of everyday life. INSEAD Fontainebleau is where memories and life-long friendships blossom and academic dreams come true.

With the INSEAD Guide in your pocket, you have the power to make the best of every spare moment. So, as you step into the varied world of Fontainebleau, armed with your invaluable local guide, be prepared. You are in for a metamorphic experience that extends far beyond the classroom walls. 

Enjoy every step of this enriching journey!

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Empowering Women with Financial Literacy: Tidy My Money Leads the Way

In a world where financial independence is synonymous with empowerment, Tidy My Money, founded by Amanda Edwards, is pioneering a movement that transforms lives. The initiative focuses on educating and empowering women, helping them to gain a deeper understanding of day-to-day finances, fostering independence, and encouraging strategic financial planning for a secure future.

The Power of Knowledge

Financial literacy is the cornerstone of this transformative journey. Through insightful, free Zoom sessions, Amanda helps to break down complex financial concepts into more manageable pieces. These sessions serve as interactive platforms where you can learn about budgeting, saving, investing, and planning for retirement. Understanding these essential aspects equips people with the knowledge they need to navigate their financial journeys confidently.

Building Independence

The impact of financial education goes beyond just numbers. It breeds independence and self-assurance. By understanding the nuances of managing money, women, in particular, are empowered to make informed decisions about their finances. Whether budgeting for daily expenses, planning for higher education, or investing for long-term goals, financial literacy gives women the tools to control their fiscal destinies.

Planning for a Secure Future

One of the main focuses of these sessions is future planning. Amanda guides women on the path to building a secure future. From creating emergency funds to smart investing and retirement planning, these sessions can provide invaluable insights. By instilling in them the importance of long-term financial planning, women can secure their futures and are paving the way for generations.

Community and Support

The sense of community cultivated through these sessions is equally significant. Women come together to share experiences, learn from each other, and build a supportive network. The friendships developed during these sessions enhance the determination to seize control of one’s financial future.

Amanda’s dedication to empowering women through financial literacy is changing lives, one Zoom session at a time. By providing women with the necessary knowledge, support, and community, Tidy My Money is not just shaping empowered individuals. It is also fostering a financially confident and independent future for all. 

Join the Tidy My Money movement.

Embrace financial independence and plan for a future of security and confidence. Contact me or Amanda to have a chat and arrange a session.

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_{Cycling the well-marked routes through the forest of Fontainebleau}

Barbizon, the Artists’ Village

The village of Barbizon, less than an hour from Paris, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic stimulation. Whenever you need to escape the hustle and bustle, a gentle bike ride through the fascinating Fontainebleau forest will help soothe your soul.

Once a favourite retreat for the Kings of France on hunting trips in the nearby Fontainebleau forest, Barbizon has been a fountain of artistic inspiration throughout the 19th century. Images of everyday village life were captured by renowned artists such as Jean-Francois Millet, Theodore Rousseau, and Charles-Francis Daubigny. Van Gogh was also a fan of the Barbizon school of painting, often incorporating its style into his artwork.
In the latter part of the 19th century, Barbizon continued to thrive and welcomed a new wave of Impressionist artists. Monet, Renoir, and Alfred Sisley joined the ranks of those who enjoyed the village’s scenic beauty and serene ambience.

In this blog, we will take you on the complete journey – from renting a bike in Fontainebleau, to exploring the village art galleries. We will also take a trip to the iconic Elephant Rock and indulge in delectable treats at La Juxtaposition.

Our adventure begins in the heart of Fontainebleau, where we rent bikes from La Reine de Amelie. Located in downtown Fontainebleau, this bicycle rental shop is the ideal starting point for your trip. The friendly staff provided us with carefully maintained bikes and ensured we were suitably prepared for our forest bike ride.

Cycling Through the Scented Forest

The Fontainebleau forest is a natural wonderland, popular with hikers, cyclists and nature enthusiasts. As we set off on our bikes along winding trails and through towering oak and beech trees, the sweet scent of pine created a revitalising aura. The well-marked cycling routes ensure that riders of all skill levels can easily explore the forest.

After a leisurely bike ride through the forest, we arrived in Barbizon. Our first stop was the iconic Elephant Rock, an enormous boulder that stands guard at the entrance to the village.

This natural marvel is popular with photographers, artists and nature enthusiasts and it is easy to see why. The rock’s unique shape and the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, create a captivating scene.

_{Photo credit: Tjaart Molenkamp on Wikiloc}

Exploring the Art Galleries

As we wandered into Barbizon, we discovered the village’s vibrant main street, lined with charming stone houses and a profusion of art galleries. Today, thanks to Barbizon’s rich artistic history, the legacies of many artists populate galleries and museums dotted around the village.

We spent several hours exploring the galleries, each filled with captivating artworks showcasing the beauty of the surrounding area. Barbizon’s art scene has something for every art lover – from traditional landscapes to modern interpretations.

Indulging at La Juxtaposition

Our day in Barbizon concludes on a sweet note at La Juxtaposition. This cosy gallery café is renowned for its heavenly outdoor terrace, delectable cakes and ice cream. We savoured slices of rich, velvety cake and delicious cheesecake and indulged in creamy scoops of locally sourced ice cream. The cafe’s quaint atmosphere, artistic decor and friendly staff made it the ideal spot to relax and reflect on our day’s adventures.

_{Photo credit: La Juxtaposition on Facebook}

Making lasting memories

A cycle ride to Barbizon through Fontainebleau Forest is a delightful journey, combining the pleasure of exploring the great outdoors with the appreciation of art and culture. Renting a bike, exploring the forest, visiting Elephant Rock, and immersing yourself in the art scene are experiences that will stay with you forever. Don’t forget to replenish your energy – and satisfy your sweet tooth! – at La Juxtaposition before bidding farewell to this beautiful village.

Barbizon is a hidden gem offering a unique, enriching escape for travellers seeking a stimulating blend of nature and culture.

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_{Tile portrait of Napoleon at Place de la Republique, Fontainebleau}

Welcome to Fontainebleau, future INSEAD students!

As you prepare to set off on this exciting journey of personal and professional growth, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the charming town that will be your home while you are studying. Hopefully, our regular blogs will help you get acquainted with your new surroundings and make you feel more at home. They will also provide some insider tips, and offer a glimpse into the incredible experiences that await you at INSEAD’s Europe campus.

Located about 60 km south of Paris, Fontainebleau has a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty just waiting to be explored. Up until the 19th century, when it became a popular holiday resort for Parisiens, the town was little more than a hamlet.

Discover Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is a picturesque town that has captivated the hearts of many people over the centuries. Also referred to as the Gateway to the Forest of Fontainebleau, these are just a few of the key highlights you can look forward to during your stay here. 

Château de Fontainebleau

The town is home to one of France’s largest and most famous royal châteaux. Originally a mediaeval royal hunting lodge, the chateau has been home to several French monarchs, including Louis IX (Saint Louis) and Catherine de Médicis. Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981, take time out to explore the opulent halls, beautiful gardens, and rich history.

 Also, while you are in the area, try to include a visit to the splendid Vaux le Vicomte. Although it may not be as famous as other destinations, it has a captivating story and is a marvellous experience. 

Fontainebleau Forest

Nature enthusiasts will fall in love with the vast and ancient Forest of Fontainebleau. It is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and anyone wanting to enjoy a brief respite surrounded by nature.

To help you make the most of your stay, we are happy to share our favourite bike trip itinerary. This scenic journey provides an enjoyable experience on a lovely autumn or spring day.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in delicious French cuisine in one of the town’s many restaurants and cafés. Try a few regional specialities such as coq au vin, escargot or an array of mouth watering pastries.

One of our top recommendations is Le Franklin, a charming place offering a unique culinary experience. Visit Primo Bacio for an authentic Italian experience or, for more casual dining, Grand Café is the perfect spot. For a tasty treat, check out Frite’Nbleau, well known for serving the best French fries in town!

Art and Culture

Fontainebleau is not just about natural beauty – it’s also steeped in culture. Visit local art galleries and museums, enjoy live music and theatre performances and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene.

Getting Around

Fontainebleau is a compact town, so it is easy to navigate on foot or bicycle. For longer trips, the town’s bus service is very reliable. However, if you want to travel further afield, renting a car or using the train service from Paris (about an hour away) is probably more convenient.

Shaping your future

As you settle into life in Fontainebleau, remember that this experience will shape your future in many ways. Accept the challenges, seize the opportunities, and relish every moment. Fontainebleau is more than just a backdrop; it’s an integral part of your INSEAD story. The town’s diverse history, outstanding natural beauty and vibrant culture will complement your academic pursuits and provide the perfect environment for personal growth and reflection.

Welcome to Fontainebleau and to INSEAD – your adventure starts here! Embrace it with an open heart and an open mind. And you’ll undoubtedly emerge from this experience as a more empowered, globally-minded individual. We wish you the very best of luck on your INSEAD journey. Enjoy every moment!

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