Thierry Millet is an umbrella repairer in Paris, and one of last remaining ones in France. He shares his wealth of knowledge and some interesting umbrella facts. Did you know that the first umbrella dates from 6500 B.C.?

Patrice is not getting enough sleep and looks a little worse for wear, but he's very philosophical about it. As Simone de Beauvoir said, "A successful life is living like an adolescent at sixty-five."

Lahlou discusses what it's like to be a Muslim in France. He normally prays five times a day and goes to the mosque on Friday. He distances himself completely from those who commit attacks in the name of Islam, which is a religion of peace.

Sophie loves plants so much that she isn't averse to snipping a cutting or two from a public garden. Her interest in plants comes from her grandmother, who spent endless hours tending to her plants and even climbed trees at 95 years old!

Victoria manages Millymenthe, one of the last remaining herbalist's shops in France. If you're ever in the Essonne area, stop by the shop and enjoy the specialty of the region, a delicious peppermint tea.

Laurent Leclercq is a specialist in the restoration of antique furniture. He's so passionate about his craft that he finds excuses to go into the studio when he's on vacation!

In the park, Samuel and Anne talk about some things they like. They have a lot in common!

Sophie and Patrice discuss the evolution of the word "handicap," from its origins as a horce racing term to its current usage in French. Rather than les handicapés (the handicapped), the French now say les personnes en situation de handicap (persons with disabilities).

Samuel meets Anne and tells her about the gifts he bought for his friends' new baby and their older daughter.

Giulia has been a jewelry maker since 2012, when she launched her Desidero brand. You can see and buy her creations in her boutique and studio located in Paris.

Somebody left a backpack on the park bench, so Anne and Samuel go through its contents to see whom it might belong to.

Sophie and Patrice talk about growing old in Paris. They both agree that it's tough for the elderly in Paris and that they would rather spend their golden years somewhere else.

In part two of our Conversations au parc series, you'll learn how to describe things as big and small, and how to say "me too" in French.

You can get away from it all just an hour away from Paris by visiting Sandra's alternative accommodation in Arbonne-la-Forêt. You can choose between a tree house or a cottage in the heart of the forest and enjoy the wildlife. There's no public lighting, so the animals won't be disturbed.

In this beginner-level conversation, you will learn some useful vocabulary about everyday objects you might put in your bag.