The French wine harvest is expected to be 10% lower than the average of the last five years, according to the latest forecasts from the ministry of Agriculture. It has been affected by rain, hail, mildew etc and is estimated at about 46 million hectoliters.
Sat, Aug 16, 2008
Mirror.co.uk have teamed up with PV-holidays.com and Brittany Ferries to giveaway a two-week family driving holiday to Brittany and Vendée in France.
The winners will spend one week at Pierre & Vacances’ Port-Bourgenay self catering holiday village in the Vendée region of France. Located 9km south of Les Sables d’Olonne, this 90-hectare village has a nine-hole golf course, an aquatic centre with three swimming pools, a central lake and a beach accessible on foot.
The second week will be at Pierre & Vacances’ Port du Crouesty holiday village, which boasts a Thalassotherapy spa treatment centre, is in close proximity to the port, has a 18-hole Rhuys-Kerver golf course and a beach where you can go sailing and or take part in some watersports..
The prize also includes standard travel insurance and a return ferry crossing for one car and four passengers with Brittany Ferries.
For more information click here. Competition closes 6pm, 22 August 2008.
Wed, Aug 13, 2008
Over the weekend of 6 and 7 September, 2008, Europe’s largest annual flea market at La Braderie will be taking place at La Braderie, Lille. It takes place every year over the first weekend of September.
La Braderie dates back to medieval times. The city’s streets come alive as over a million people from all over Europe flock to Lille to join the marathon bargain hunt. Over the weekend, the city is transformed into a vast outdoor market covering over 200km of pavement. Stalls selling everything from rare antiques and furniture, to vintage clothing, bric-a-brac and art line the narrow cobbled streets, alongside street entertainers and food stands offering mouth-watering French and Flemish cuisine.
Travelling to and exploring Lille from the UK couldn’t be easier with Eurostar. The high-speed international passenger service offers direct and seamless journeys to Lille in just 1h20 from the centre of London. And arrival in Lille Europe station, situated just minutes away from the city centre, means all the must-do attractions are within easy walking distance.
To truly get into the spirit of La Braderie, there are plenty of bistros and restaurants in the city centre offering an opportunity to sit back and watch the world go by over a plate of “moules-frites” washed down with a locally brewed beer. Traditionally the city’s restaurants stack up the empty mussel shells and compete to see which one amasses the highest pile by the end of the weekend.
Return fares to Lille start from £55 standard class. Travellers can indulge themselves on their way to and from La Braderie by travelling Leisure Select class, enjoying roomier accommodation and meals and drinks served at their seat from just £115 for a weekend day return.
Tickets are available on www.eurostar.com.
Fri, Aug 1, 2008
It is believed that there’s nothing called as the French architecture. But this is just a myth which is baseless. The truth is that Gothic Architecture in the olden times was called French Architecture. Anyhow, in reality, historians have traced the history of France Architecture right from the Stone Age. But since most of France was occupied by the Romans, their style is depicted more in the ancient architecture. The north of France is the most important centre of the Gothic architecture. There are many Cathedrals and Basilicas. Gothic Architecture or lets call it the French Architecture is used to build many religious places, of which the most famous and probably the beautiful is the Palais des Papes.
The thing that characterizes the French Architecture is the shape of the building. Their buildings are usually tall, and have a small arch on the top. Most building (ancient times) were just two storied and the shape of the windows and they way they were placed added to the beauty of the building. In the mid 1800s, the second empire was established in France. With the invasion of the Napoleon III, Paris was glamorized with tall looking buildings. The most distinguished feature of that period is the boxy mansard type roof.
In the early 90’s, another architectural style developed in France which was known as the Beaux Arts. This style developed out of the school of fine arts where Americans studied. The feature of this type of style is the stone balconies. Other style which came in early 1700s was the Creole. It is actually American colony style architecture. The specialty is the timber used and the wide roof.
The Romanesque style was also popularized in France. This style distinctive feature is the architecture in roman style. The stone vault buildings were one of the most prominent features of the Romanesque. The famous monument of that style is the Church of Cluny.
In the 18th century, a style called Rococo style dominated that ear. Its main concern was the interior of the building. Anyhow, this style didn’t last for long. But till date Rococo style interior decoration is seen in many building throughout France.
In 20th century, a Swiss architect named Le Corbusier changed the entire scenario in France. Of late, French architects have combined modern and old style architecture to give France a unique look. The most rarely seen architectural style in France is the sky scrapers. The bridges of France are also well renowned. One of the famous bridges is: Millau Viaduct. Starting from the 20th century, one can see the rise of modern architecture in France. Under the President François Mitterrand, many developments took place. The initiative lead by Mitterrand provided encouragement to the Modern day architecture in France.
Few famous architectural buildings in France are: Louvre Pyramids, Eiffel Tower, arc de Triomphe, Vaux le vicomte. Compare to any other city in France Paris (capital of France) is known for its gigantic projects. The examples for this type of art are LA arch Defense and the Bastille Opera.
Wed, Jul 30, 2008
The demographic records of 2008 show more than 64 million people living in the French Republic. Out of the total population, more than 61 million live in the metropolitan areas of the country, while the rest are resident at overseas departments and territories. In the beginning of the twentieth century, the population in France was very low compared to other European countries. There was a sharp increase in population after World War II. It was called the baby boom. During World War III, France experienced reconstruction and a steady growth in economy. The economic growth led to labor immigration in the 1960’s. Many employers discovered potential manpower in the villages located at southern Europe and North Africa. The French law gave permission and facilitated the immigration for many ethnic and national French colonies. The immigrants were from the former colonies of France which included North Africa, West Africa, India, and Indochina. After the energy crises of 1973, the laws of immigration were passed. During this time the country experienced drop in birth rate.
After 1980’s France was no longer a country of mass immigration. The birth rate was still very low and continued to drop. In the 1990’s the birth rate in France increased and began to rebound. Today, the fertility rate of the country is nearing replacement level. The immigrants from the French colonies account for one quarter of the growth in population. This proportion is low when compared to other European countries. In 2006, the demographic survey showed that 4.9 million immigrants were of foreign origin which means that 8% of the country’s population was of foreign origin. French citizens of foreign origin account for 6.7 million which means one tenth of French citizens are of foreign origin. The immigrants are from European descent that comprises of Italy, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Spain and a few others. France also has a sizeable population of Arabs and Africans who were immigrants from the former colonies of France. In 2000’s, the immigration rate reduced considerably and it is less compared to other European countries. Since 1990s, France has attempted to curb immigrations. Few decades back the scene was totally opposite. In the 1920s and 1930s, the population and fertility rate in France was extremely low compared to other European countries. At that time, France had opened its doors for immigration to avoid decline in population.
Today, the fertility rate in other European countries is very low when compared to France. Countries like Germany and Spain have to open doors for immigration in order to avoid decline in population. In France, the fertility rate has increased compared to other European countries. After Ireland, France is the next most populated country in Europe. The population growth in France is more due to natural increase unlike other European countries. The latest demographic survey was conducted in 2006 according to which the birth rate and the fertility rate in France continued to rise. The fertility rate has been increasing to match that of the United States of America.
Tue, Jul 29, 2008
Taking a golf break in the country of France was never easy. With the popularity of Euro star rising day by day, Paris is just at a distance of two hours (by train) from center of ‘London’. This capital of France is encompassed with several charms. Due to this, most of the golf enthusiasts would hate to trade attractions of city for country during pursuing golf break in this European country. Fortunately, such a trading is not required, as certain best courses of golf in France are at a stone throw distance from Paris, thereby letting you to have visit to capital combined with certain rounds of the classic golf.
The finest golf adjoining Paris has been concentrated in 3 regions: Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Chantilly. All three of them feature a gorgeous countryside as well as certain outstanding courses of golf. Chantilly possesses the broadest and the most excellent range of golf courses. Let 5 best golf courses near Paris be studied.
Paris International Golf Club
This is the only course in the country of France to be premeditated by Jack Nicklaus, the ‘Golden Bear’ himself. Paris International Golf Club is being consistently rated as amongst the best enjoyable and maintained courses for visiting for golf in the vicinity of Paris. The rating has been done by none other than visitors. Of Course, club house needs to be viewed to be thought of. It’s elegantly designed, enormous, and has an immense luxury including swimming pool and a spa.
Chantilly Vineuil
This golf course finds its place in the top five golf courses of Europe. Tom Simpson, the legendary holds the credit of designing Chantilly Vineuil. The very first look gives a traditional feeling, but, at the same time, gives a fair idea of its immaculate maintenance. French Open has been hosted several times by this course. Nick Faldo has won it in the year 1989. The main challenge lies in the fact that accuracy and power need to be commensurate to each other, so as to avert ending up being in woodland or being numerous bunkers. Chantilly Vineuil is located at a distance of around 1 mile from the northern part of Chantilly, along with a distance of around 30 miles from Paris.
Fontainebleau
This classic golf course has also been designed by Tom Simpson. There can be no second opinion regarding the fact that Fontainebleau is the most pleasurable one out of the 3 courses designed by him. The layout and landscape give an English feel. The Art Deco Clubhouse is, indeed, great, and an ideal place for relaxing between the rounds.
Chateau d’Augerville
This course is located near to Fontainebleau. It’s referred to as being amongst the hidden gems of the golf courses of France. It stands out from other courses in terms of the blind shots and challenge presented by every hole.
Golf National Albatross
This course now hosts French Open. It’s known as the toughest course in the country of France. If you are brave enough of handling this Championship Course, Golf National Albatross is the best course to visit.
Tue, Jul 29, 2008
Avignon is one of the most lively and attractive cities in France, it is the financial and organizational capital of the Provence and Camargue. Avignon is considered as one of the oldest city of France and it is gifted with the natural beauty of architectural and imaginative heritage. The most interesting thing about Avignon is its gothic ensembles all around Europe. Due to its theater festivel Avignon is famous worldwide. Avignon theater festival is considered as the most popular in world. During 14th century it was capital of the Christian world. The actual feeling of Avignon is the amazing beauty of 360 degree panoramas. The most important thing about Avignon is its Palace of the Popes which is considered as the living place for several popes during 14th to 15th century.
Avignon is located on the left bank of Rhone and Durance is just in few miles from this place. The popular cities near to Avignon are Paris and Lyon. The area of Avignon is in the shape of oval. Its large area is covered with beautiful parks and gardens. Avignon weather is a quite windy one and the strongest wind in all these is mistral.Apaoprt from this some of Avignon area are of no wind like venenosa and vento fastidiosia. Avignon is the metropolitan area due to presence of Grand Avignon which is famous for its communes which are place on both sides of the river. As per the site of Avignon it was settled very early which is placed on the north end of the town and some of its sites are as the hill fort. It is considered as an adventurous place for people who love adventure. According to roman’s history Avignon was considered as the first transalpine of the Romans territory. But very little text is their concerning the popularity of Avignon. During 5th century it was badly damaged due to the revenge of barbarians. Therefore after the battle it was ruined by Burgundy kingdom and its name gets changed to Goths.
Avignon history
Avignon has achieved a great pride due to residence of several popes and it is the only city which welcomed so many numbers of popes. In the starting of 1309 for the first time Avignon was chosen to be the pope’s residence .At this time this city was surrounded by the Comtat Venaissin and the emperor was the king of Sicily. Therefore for this period it was Papacy in place of Rome who ruled the country. The crudest ruler of Avignon was Phillip. He enters the Avignon and marked his edge of kingdom and at the same time the city gets flooded and the situations become more drastic but he never turned up to help them and even taxed them for the kingdoms domain. This period is also considered as Babylonian Captivity of exile. The walls which are the symbols of pope residence are well conserved after the immigration of different kingdoms. All these walls are made up of natural spur rock therefore it is safe even today also.
Mon, Jul 28, 2008
Fashion designs in France have always been looked upon in the form of benchmark for the fashion standards all over the world since ages. The notable French fashion goes on to inspire designs across the fashion industry and have also earned a unique distinction for Paris as ‘World’s Fashion Capital’.
Fashion industry had made beeline to this country under tutelage of the designers like Balmain, Pierre Cardin, Dior, Givenchy and Fath, Andre Courreges, and Saint Laurent. The previous French designs depicted the classic styles that were substituted later by the experimental style. They were further substituted by street style which focused to a greater extent on young consumers.
Space age
Under the designers Pierre Cardin, Courreges, there was a dawn of space age. It marked the making of pieces in the silver or white and black. These colors were also used in combinations with each other. Moreover, pop dresses bearing stripes were designed. Trouser suits were also designed as per the demands of youngsters. In short, French fashion started to cater to needs of the youth. Fashion designers of France also derived inspiration from several different aspects like paintings and nature.
The present scenario
The current scenario is such that fashion designers from France compose designs inclusive of chiffon tops, which are mostly put on by the affluent class. Apart from these designs, there’re high skirts mad in silver and white, with the geometric shapes. Amongst the exceptional styles is the one of putting on helmets and PVC boots with skirts. Ethnic designs of France have been influenced by ancient Egyptians. They have been characterized by the outfits designed with the help of sequined bands that are tied jointly by the transparent silk.
Fashion designs of France are inclusive of a wide spectrum of outfits like beachwear, gowns, caps, and coats, and lounging suits. Such designs have been marked by sophistication and feminine touch. These designs give more importance to a woman’s seductive and sensual charm, apart from having her portraying her in the form of new-fangled, modern age independent being. Designers belonging to Sylindical Chamber For Couture, Paris, make designs called haute couture designs. Such designs cater to the private customers. They also give a personalized feeling.
1940 trends
Second World War led to the closing down of several fashion homes in France, especially Paris. Couture had been amongst the ones affected by re-education program that was initiated by Government of France then. Possession of the high fashion of France was taken by German invaders. Relocation of haute culture to the German cities like China and Berlin, which possessed a bit of conventional history in terms of fashion was also considered. These had been certain significant alterations in landscape of French fashion.
At that time, models in the fashion shows had been limited to 75, whereas time for the evening wear had been drastically lessened. The attire to be put on during the day was made skimpier. The length of coats in 1940s was not >4 meters. The length of the blouse was around 1 meter.
Fri, Jul 25, 2008
Dijon
Dijon can be referred to as Burgundy’s capital. It’s located in center of department of Cote d’Or in France’s eastern part, with the population of >200000. The ancient name of Dijon is ‘Castrum Kelly’. It had been a home to Burgundy’s Dukes, such as Philippe le Bon, Charles le Temeraire, and Jean sans Peur. Dijon is amongst Europe’s finest cities in terms of sciences and arts.
Like other French cities, this city’s wine is extremely good, and usually the ideal company for a sumptuous regional meal. The fame of Dijon with respect to meals can be evident from the crowds flocking from all over the world to have the food items prepared using mustard seeds. The flower show taking place on an annual basis is also one of the centers of attraction. Dijon’s architecture is simply amazing. Several old buildings and streets have been restored for giving an improved aspect for the visitors.
Historical Monuments
The number of historical monuments in Dijon is around 90. It also contains several mansions tracing back to the seventeenth century. There are Palaces, Cathedrals, and Estate of Bossuet and Rameau, i.e. Gustave Eiffel’s birth place as well. Dijon is known for many other reasons as well. One of them is Florissimo, i.e. the flower show held on the international level within the time span of 3 years. A few years back, Formula 1 Grand Prix of France had been realized here. The current scenario is such that Dijon-Prenois’s race track hosts several motor sports. The football team of Dijon is also reputable. It’s the 2nd largest league with respect to French Football.
French Media
Post offices in France are accessible for around 10 hours/day. The chief Post office located in Paris remains open for around 24 hours/day. There is a likelihood of this schedule being changed if you have vacations, that too, in a hamlet or small town. Like any other country, name, postcode, and address of city in which you are having your letter sent is essential, along with details of recipient. You are entitled of receiving letters at chief post offices of every French town. If you intend posting your letter at the time of walking, you need to have it put in yellow-colored postboxes that are found in streets.
If you wish of making phone call, purchasing the phone card is advisable. Such cards are available at reasonable prices at any of the tourist offices, post offices, or train ticket booking offices. Calls within the French territory, even those pertaining to remoteness can easily be made by the way of discarding 10 digits of the phone number. The ones beginning with 08.00 have to be free, and the ones starting with 08.36 are termed as premium members. They have lots of money involved in them. The numbers beginning with 06 are also expensive, as they fall in the category of mobile numbers. If you intend making an international call, you need to purchase the calling card. These cards are simple to use. All you have to do is have an account created prior to traveling. Payment would happen every month through the credit card.
Thu, Jul 24, 2008
Beginning of the French Revolution
In the year 1789, the French Revolution began with a private meeting of the States Generals. On 14th of July 1789, Bastille was under attack and in October, the Royal Family and Louis XVI were transferred to Paris from Versailles. On October 1791 till September 1792, a Legislative Assembly met in the face of the progress of the allied armies of Sardinia, Prussia, Holland and Austria. It was then substituted by the National Convention that announced the Republic. Later on December 1792, the King who had fled to Varennes was brought back to trail and on 21st January 1793 was executed.
In the same year, the revolutionary regime announced war on Britain for world dominance that had been passed on with the short intervals since the commencement of the reign of Mary and William. This reign continued for another 22 years. The Revolutionary Tribunal and the Committee of Public Security were introduced immediately after the king’s execution. The sovereignty of Terror during which the ruling party cruelly eliminated all the impending enemies, whatever condition, age or sex, began on September 1973 and went on to last till 27th July 1794. In fact, during the last 6 weeks of Red Terror almost 1,400 people were executed in Paris itself.
On October 1795, a convention with the directory was changed in turn on 1799 it was once again changed by the Consulate. And, on May 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte went on to become the Emperor. French Revolution was not just an important incident considered in the framework of Western history, however was even likely the lone most important authority on British political, philosophical and intellectual life in the 19th century. In its earlier stage this revolution represented itself as an achievement of armed forces of explanation over those of privilege and superstition.
And, as such it was literally greeted not only by the English fundamentalists such as William Blake, William Godwin and Thomas Paine, who routinely saw it as a representative act that signified the return of humankind to the state of excellence from which it had descended. However, most of the liberals and some of the others who saw it also announced importance on Fraternity, Equality and Liberty as being equivalent to the glorious French Revolution. Moreover, some of the people like Coleridge and Wordsworth, who greeted it with eagerness has second thoughts.
On the other hand, the ancient regime of English had from the beginning allied itself strongly with Newton and Locke, the great advocates of order and reason and even Edmund Burke. However, Burke preserved that the fundamentalists who had started this French Revolution by liberating the huge unexpressed quasi-religious forces of common people in France. These people were initially interested in the downfall of their own realm and then the downfall of Europe along with the rest of the world that would be released whether it wished to be liberated or not. The great response by Thomas Paine to Burke’s work “the rights of man” emerged in the year 1791 and the dispute between fundamentalists and the conservatives raged on for several year.
Mon, Aug 18, 2008
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