Why is France so negative about the Olympics, a new schools row and the secret Michelin critics

In this week’s talking points we’ll look at why the French are so down about the Olympics right now. Are they understandably worried that everything’s going to go wrong and it’s going to be a disaster or are they just excelling at that famous Gallic sport of complaining?And we’ll hear the story of France’s famous Michelin guide and who the secret restaurant inspectors are. We also examine the latest row around schools in France and learn about why the euro coins in your pocket are going to look a little different very soon.And we ask the question why in France do political leaders only become liked once they are dead or retired?Host Ben McPartland is joined by The Local France team; editor Emma Pearson, journalist Gen Mansfield and politics expert John Lichfield.To sign up for The Local's Paris Olympics guide weekly newsletter you can click here.Further reading: OPINION: How to be loved by the French people? Retire or dieMeet the new French faces on Euro coinsMichelin unveils 62 newly starred restaurants in France Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

Talking France is The Local’s weekly podcast where we discuss the big news and talking points in France as well as explore and explain the major issues that impact life in the country. We also answer your essential questions and look ahead at what’s coming up.In each episode presenter Ben McPartland chats about the most important news and must-know information with The Local France’s Emma Pearson and Genevieve Mansfield. They are also frequently joined by John Lichfield, a veteran journalist whose knowledge of French news and politics is second to none, as well as other expert commentators.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.