It is time, mes amis, to look to the words of the outgoing and incoming French presidents !
Outgoing Nicolas Sarkozy urges his followers to be respectful of the new socialist president Francoise Hollande, and has left feeling “an even deeper love for France and a greater appreciation of what the French people are capable of accomplishing”.
Mark his words – you should show respect at all times and, even more importantly, you will have an even deeper love for France, too, after you have left it. Ha ha - a small joke. What I really meant was after one of Gail’s special French tours designed to suit you !
Mon dieu – there are so many to choose from. But today I will delight you with some talk about Corsica – the birthplace of another political leader, Napoleon.
Officially, Corsica is part of France, but in most ways it is a world away. Over the centuries the island has had many masters but it has always maintained its own distinctive characteristics. (Like Nappy himself, eh?)
Corsica's rocky landscape is immense - sheer cliffs plunge into the bluest of clear seas, small fishing harbours nestle behind fingers of land, the beaches are of silver sand are uncrowded. The rustic cuisine features many types of air-dried meats and luscious sheep cheeses, washed down with very acceptable local wines.
You can explore the coast by boat, drive or cycle the perimeter, or set off on one of the world's great walks through the interior of the island. Delicious, experiential travel.
Say no to austerity
It is said the French people ousted Mr Sarkozy because of his 'austerity’ policies, which they were sick and tired of. No matter that most of Europe is in debt to its hair roots, people just want to have fun and, admit it, so do you !
Isn’t life short and the urge to splurge more important than scrimping and saving and shivering in the cold so ‘the world economy can recover’ ? Bah !
Hollande promises growth, which means more spending, more self-indulgence, more joie de vivre!
Might I, as un humble hippopotame, suggest, therefore, that you follow this serendipitous juxtaposition and - fall in love with France, appreciate its capabilities, spend your travel budget while you can and, above all, respect those who don’t see things your way. Just go behind their backs like any good politician and book your next French love affair this week!
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