Republic of France, Europe

 

France does not only promise divine culinary delights. The country of gourmets and charming bon vivants also offers bizarre coastal formations in Normandy and the nonchalance of the Côte D´Azur with its enchanting flair.

France is blessed with a moderate, pleasant climate. Traveling by plane, you will probably land in Paris. But other cities also have international airports: Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Nice. Public authorities officially approve of, control and classify the French hotels into six categories: no stars, 1 star, 2 stars, 3 stars and 4 stars L (luxury). Normandy is a picturesque, sleepy region in northern France. Normandy consists of Haute-Normandy around the Seine River north of Paris, the likeable city of clochards and of Amour Folle.

The Cotentin peninsula lies in the west, Basse-Normandy consists of Ome, Calvados and Manche. The exquisite Mont Saint Michel is a unique highlight. 

During the Middle Ages, Normandy was the home of the Normans, the tribe which conquered England for the last time. If you like a quaint and lively atmosphere, you will be drawn to Champagne in the region around Reims. On a “wine outing” you can get to know the gentle, hilly landscape and try Alsatian specialties in the cozy “winstubs” (wine taverns).

From Vienne to Avignon steep banks are a contrast to Rhône, the origin of the mythical “cru” Côtes du Rhône. The French Southern Route can not be passed without wine. Treat yourself to extravagant escapades in Burgundy and Beaujolais. 

picture source: © Alexander Bartl / pixelio.de

 

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