I just got back from a month long stay in Germany. Before leaving with my Janome 3160(which I bought specifically for a travel machine) we looked online and found that the Janome's are made for world power. So all you need it an adapter and you are good to go.
So look online to see that whatever you buy will work in different countries. It was great to sew overseas, but be aware to take all the fabric you need as fabric in Europe is quite expensive. There are not big discount sewing stores so take all the thread, batting, trim that you need.
Happy sewing.

I had no problems going through security. They want to open the machine and look at it. Always asked me what I was making and I was I interested in sewing for them.:-)
I have also checked it and had no problems. I do have a special travel case mad just for sewing machines.
Be sure to pack any scissors in your checked luggage.

Maybe she has a sewing machine and you won't need to take one?????

I agree with the Janome Gem....have one and love it.

Wishing your mom well and doesn't she have a machine by chance. -- J.

I agree totally with this. I had a Janome Jem Platinum and traded it in for a Janome 3160 QDC. More stitches, a bit more robust machine, more attachments and included sewing extension table and hard cover. I use it at home a lot when my 11000 is embroidering, and it's my machine for travel, along with either a FW or a Singer 301.

I have the "Hello Kitty" green machine by Janome (some might call it a 3/4 machine, as it is small). Just got back from an extended stay in Florida. It is NOT a toy. It is manfactured with a lot of metal and has the weight to not "dance" on the table. Has a good straight stitch, zig-zag and actually will do buttonholes. It was perfect for my travel. I got it online from Target for $119 a few months ago. Didn't want to take my Viking and expose it to the humidity from the ocean. I will say a prayer for your Mom. Gerry

I take my Janome Platinum 720 or my featherweight and I would carry it on the plane.

You need to check what the voltage is in France. In Germany everything is 220 Volt so if want to take a Sewing Machine from home you need to get a Voltage converter.

I have an Elna Lotus from many years ago. If you could find a used one, it's a great little machine!