Montpellier

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Local Media

Sections

1. Newspapers and Magazines

Montpellier has a variety of newspapers and magazines that cover local, regional, and national news. These publications are available in print and online formats.

a. Local and Regional Newspapers

  1. Midi Libre

    • Overview: The most prominent regional newspaper in Montpellier and the Occitanie region. It covers local news, events, politics, sports, and cultural happenings.
    • Language: French
    • Access:
      • Print edition available at newsstands and supermarkets.
      • Online edition at www.midilibre.fr.
    • Cost:
      • Print: Around €1.20 per issue.
      • Digital subscription: Starts at €9.99/month for unlimited access.
    • Tip: Check the "Montpellier" section for hyper-local news.

  2. La Gazette de Montpellier

    • Overview: A weekly magazine-style newspaper focusing on Montpellier-specific news, cultural events, and lifestyle topics.
    • Language: French
    • Access:
    • Cost:
      • Print: Around €2.50 per issue.
      • Subscription: Approximately €50/year for print and digital access.
    • Tip: Great for finding out about upcoming events and cultural activities.

  3. 20 Minutes Montpellier

    • Overview: A free daily newspaper with a focus on local and national news, available in print and online.
    • Language: French
    • Access:
      • Print: Distributed for free at tram stops, train stations, and other public areas.
      • Online: www.20minutes.fr.
    • Cost: Free
    • Tip: Ideal for quick updates and a concise overview of the day's news.

b. National Newspapers with Local Editions

  • Le Monde, Le Figaro, and Libération are widely available in Montpellier, often with regional supplements. These are more expensive (around €2-€4 per issue) and cater to those interested in national and international news.

c. Magazines

  • L’Express and Le Point are popular weekly magazines that cover politics, culture, and society. They are available at newsstands and cost around €4-€5 per issue.

2. Radio Stations

Montpellier has a dynamic radio scene, with stations catering to a variety of tastes, from news and talk shows to music and cultural programming.

a. Local Radio Stations

  1. France Bleu Hérault

    • Overview: A regional branch of the national France Bleu network, focusing on local news, weather, traffic updates, and cultural programs.
    • Frequency: 101.1 FM
    • Language: French
    • Access:
    • Cost: Free
    • Tip: Tune in for real-time traffic updates and local event coverage.

  2. Radio Aviva

    • Overview: A community radio station based in Montpellier, offering a mix of music, cultural programs, and local news.
    • Frequency: 88.0 FM
    • Language: French
    • Access:
    • Cost: Free
    • Tip: Great for discovering local music and cultural insights.

  3. RTS (Radio Thau Sète)

    • Overview: A regional station that plays a mix of contemporary music and provides local news updates.
    • Frequency: 106.5 FM
    • Language: French
    • Access:
    • Cost: Free

b. National Radio Stations

  • Popular national stations like France Inter, NRJ, and RMC are also available in Montpellier. These stations provide a mix of news, talk shows, and music.

3. Television Channels

Television in Montpellier is dominated by national broadcasters, but there are also regional channels that focus on local content.

a. Regional TV Channels

  1. France 3 Occitanie

    • Overview: A regional branch of the national France 3 network, offering news and programs specific to the Occitanie region, including Montpellier.
    • Language: French
    • Access:
    • Cost: Free
    • Tip: Watch the evening news ("19/20") for a comprehensive overview of local events.

  2. TV Sud (ViàOccitanie)

    • Overview: A regional TV channel focusing on local news, culture, and events in Montpellier and the surrounding areas.
    • Language: French
    • Access:
    • Cost: Free

b. National TV Channels

  • Channels like TF1, France 2, and M6 are widely available and provide national news, entertainment, and cultural programming. Access is free via terrestrial TV or through cable/satellite providers.

c. Cable and Streaming Services

  • Canal+ and Orange TV offer premium channels and on-demand content. Subscriptions start at around €20/month.
  • Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ are also popular in Montpellier.

4. Online Platforms and Social Media

Montpellier has a growing presence in the digital media space, with websites and social media pages dedicated to local news and events.

a. News Websites

  1. Actu Montpellier

    • Overview: A local news website covering breaking news, events, and practical information about Montpellier.
    • Access: actu.fr/montpellier
    • Cost: Free
    • Tip: Bookmark this site for daily updates.

  2. Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole

    • Overview: The official website of the Montpellier metropolitan area, offering news, event listings, and practical information.
    • Access: www.montpellier3m.fr
    • Cost: Free

b. Social Media

  • Follow local accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for real-time updates. Popular pages include:
    • Ville de Montpellier (official city page).
    • Montpellier Events (cultural and event updates).

5. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Language: Most local media is in French. If you're not fluent, consider using translation tools or subscribing to international media outlets with French editions.
  • Cultural Relevance: Local media often highlights cultural events, festivals, and traditions unique to Montpellier. Use these resources to immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Free Resources: Take advantage of free newspapers like 20 Minutes and free-to-air TV/radio channels to stay informed without incurring costs.
  • Community Engagement: Many local radio stations and online platforms encourage community participation. Consider contributing or attending events they promote to connect with locals.

By leveraging these media resources, you'll be well-equipped to stay informed, adapt to life in Montpellier, and engage with the local community.