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Day June 29, 2018
The Traveller’s Notebook: Exploring France(Part-1)- Exquisite picturesque for the travellers.
Campervan here everyone! Snacks? Water bottles? Blankets? Sleeping bags? Umbrellas? Firecrackers? Paints and canvas? Notebooks? Camera? Let’s go!
Before reading, turn on this lovely and light travelling music as we are going to the country where love is in the air, where the magic flows with water and where fragrance is diffused in the air. Yes, we are going to France ❤ This will make you drift onto the adventure road. Enjoy! 🙂
Todays Schedule:
Exploring top 14 exotic towns and villages in France.
TOP 14 EXOTIC TOWNS AND VILLAGES IN FRANCE:
On our today’s scheduled list, we have to chalk out fourteen must-to-go places in France. So, Lets began!
1. Les Plus Beaux Villages de France:
Les Plus Beaux Villages have more to offer beyond a pretty façade. In addition to being beautiful, a village must have at least 2 national heritage sites, have less than 2000 inhabitants, and show a strong plan for welcoming tourists while retaining the original character of the site. Beautiful vintage streets and retro architecture is the speciality of this village.
2. Castelnaud, Occitanie:
Built on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Périgord Noir, the Château de Castelnaud offers a magnificent panoramic view over the Dordogne Valley. Founded in the 12th century, it is a perfect example of a medieval fortress. Today, the Château houses an important collection of weapons and armour. Along the bastion, the most powerful siege machines from the Middle Ages have been recreated and placed in attack positions. Castelnaud has a strong architecture and forts. It still holds the mist of medieval ages.
3. Yvoire village, France:
4. Èze Village, Nice, France:
Completely surrounded with a stone wall, the village has only one entrance/exit. Medieval streets, rooftops, courtyards, wells, create a sense of mystique and mystery. It is best to come here in the spring. And if you arrive in the morning, it almost does not find people, and can, as Nietzsche once, enjoy the peace and quiet. And, despite the fact that in the village are a large number of art galleries and shops, not know about it, and many Frenchmen, not to mention the tourists, they still prefer to Cannes and Saint Tropez.
You can get here by car and by bus number 82 and 112 from Nice.
5. The village of St. Paul de Vence, France:
Medieval walls encircle narrow streets and capture the heritage of more than a thousand years. Picking out the marks of history, either alone or with a guide, is to enter into the soul of Saint-Paul de Vence. The fountain at the heart of the village fills St-Paul’s medieval vaults with music. The village is an open-air gallery with artists at work in their studios and staging exciting exhibitions. A painting hung in the morning can find a home before evening falls… if it captures the heart of a visitor. Savour wine produced in Saint-Paul, stroll around the ramparts, enjoy a drink on a terrace… happy to have found a place where life is still so sweet.
6. Bayeux, France:
The northern French town of Bayeux is best known for the eponymous tapestry that depicts the 11th-century Norman Conquest. You can see it, of course, on display at the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. The cloth’s original home was the Bayeux Cathedral, which still towers over the area, looking a bit like a Gothic wedding cake. Inside you’ll find beautifully detailed murals and haunting crypts. Bayeux makes an excellent jumping off point to tour nearby historic sites.
7. Roussillon, Cote d’Azur:
One of the most impressive villages in France, Roussillon is a countryside dream. You’ll quickly notice the famous red cliffs and ochre quarries. The clear blue Provencal sky and the shades of yellow, brown and red (and everything in between) illuminate this magical village. Once you set foot in Roussillon, you’ll instantly be taken it by its atmosphere and charm. You can hike, or hire a mountain bike to see the village up close. And on your travels, stop to take a look at the arts and crafts, galleries, restaurants or any ongoing festivals (usually in the summer months).
8. Honfleur, Normandy:
Colourful and bursting with life, it’s hard to remember that Honfleur was originally built with the sole purpose of trading. As the years have progressed, this seaside town is now famed for attracting impressionist painters. You can see the art up close among the museums and modern galleries dotted around the town. Honfleur is both cultural and wealthy – a fact magnified by the yachts surrounding Vieux Bassin (the heart of the port), and the rows upon rows of high-rise home packed tightly together. Moving with the tide, this town is now dedicated to tourism so you can choose from an enticing selection of arty hotels, shops, restaurants and more.
9. Domme, Dordogne:
This picturesque village in the south occupies a splendid position high above the Dordogne River. Honey coloured streets, warm welcoming locals and pretty views to match – need I say more? One thing you should know before visiting is that this village has an intriguing cave system that sits underneath the main square. These caves were used to shelter locals during the war, but today, it’s open for tourists and residents alike to admire the beautiful formations. At the end of your visit, a lift will take you to a remarkable viewpoint overlooking the Dordogne valley. It’s a special sight for sure, and you like many visitors won’t help but fall head over heels for Domme. People say that the best view is in Domme.
10. Ploumanac’h, Brittany:
Oh, this pink granite coast is a budding photographers delight. The colours of blush pink perfectly compliment the sound of the waves gently crashing on the rocks. You’ll seldom find this sight anywhere else in the world. This quaint seaside village is the definition of calm. Families and nomads should aim to tick this hidden gem of their bucket lists – beaches for days, heavenly coastal walks, and bird watching are within arms reach. But please don’t visit expecting the high life, even during midsummer, Ploumanac’h remains a pleasantly sleepy little place.
11. St-Guilhem-le-Désert, Languedoc:
On the banks of the Herault gorg, you’ll find St-Guilhem-le-Désert. Medieval personality, this village is surrounded by cliffs and oak trees. Beautiful views will be everywhere you turn in this UNESCO gem. With a little exploration, you’ll find the amber stone houses that have stood the test of time, Renaissance-style windows, an ancient tower and of course the grand focus, Abbaye de Gellone. The church is so beautiful, but above all, you can feel the history through the walls. Like other French religious buildings, the abbey was vandalised by Protestants during the Reformation. But still, it remains intact which further adds to its charm.
12. St-Tropez, Côte d’Azur:
At the heart of the French Riviera is the gorgeous St. Tropez. Famed in songs and notorious spray tans, you’ll quickly learn why this is one of the most famous resorts in Europe. The Med is truly bluer here, so top up your tan, join the locals in a game of boules or explore the cobblestones streets. We don’t need to sell this seaside town; if you’re after days spent poolside, an eclectic mix of shopping and historical charms then this is the place for you. And if you’re dying to experience a taste of the high life, you can celeb-spot on popular Nikki Beach.
13. L’Isle sur la Sorgue, Provence:
If you’re looking to experience the scenery of a bygone time, L’Isle sur la Sorgue is one of those places that one has to see. The ebb of greenery and the reflection of the water shining from the several canals is simply superb. Known as the ‘island city’, antique lovers and art collectors will be gifted with more than 300 secondhand shops. You’re more than guaranteed to leave with a steal! The antique fairs during Easter have gained a worldwide reputation, so much so that more than 500 antique dealers come to show off their gems. This is the best place for antique lovers as it offers a wide range of classical antiquity and vintage showpieces. It is paradise away from paradise.
14. Chamonix, Rhone-Alpes:
This snowtopia quickly gained its fame through its proximity to Mont Blanc. But little do many know that these mountain views are as lovely all year round. Chamonix is great for skiers, hikers, thrill seekers and anyone with a love for picturesque views. The talk about this town being extreme is true -, especially as a sports oasis. But if you haven’t got the adrenaline pumping through your veins, don’t worry, many come to admire the views, the shopping and the gastronomic atmosphere. It is the best place for those who believe in magic. A perfect fairytale indeed!
Well, folks, that’s a wrap on the best towns and villages in France! But the fun doesn’t end here. In the next part, we will be exploring best restaurants and eatables in France. Suggestions are open for the followers from France. Much Love ❤
sources: https://www.saint-pauldevence.com, https://www.tripadvisor.com, http://castelnaud.com/en/, https://cheeseweb.eu, https://www.oliverstravels.com.
We are all spellbound to appreciation: Key ingredients and my daily 30 minutes of appreciation to all the writers.
One of my friend texted me in the morning, congratulated me on my website and asked me that she was thinking to add categories to her website. I told her that people usually visit the blog post or homepage and the rest of the categories remain untouched by them mostly. She became disappointed and said okay leave it People don’t care.
I have always been a rational and a straightforward person due to which I lost many friends and faced a flood of criticism. I have always loved people from the core of my heart and also helped them even if I have to go out of my way. I always thought that I am right and people are wrong. And trust me this psychology of mine lead me to nowhere but disappointment and loneliness. I have learned many lessons from my life experiences; both good and bad.
For good experiences, I am really grateful for my abilities to make good decisions whereas, for bad experiences, I am really very grateful to the people who taught me some life lesson.
Our life is made up of people and they are like blood running in our body. If you lose drips of blood one by one, you will die eventually.
How I Started my Journey of Appreciation:
I had this thing in my filthy mind that yes, I know everything and yes, I can write better than many people out there. Yes, it is great to have confidence in your talent but if this so-called confidence transforms into ignorance, trust me, your journey of success will end even before starting. I never thought about how people feel because I was so obsessed with me and because I never had time to think about people. I forgot that it is the community who makes you stand out. Without people, you’re nothing. Who is gonna pay for your expenses? Who’s gonna give you the job? Who’s gonna give you the food? Whose gonna appreciate you? And most important of all, who are you going to hurt then you badass? Don’t take it seriously, I was just kidding 😀
Well, this made me realize that people do a lot of favours to you during your whole life either they are your parents, your teachers, your friends, colleagues, neighbours, siblings, strangers, or partners. They make up your life, in fact, 99.9% of your life. From your birth till your death, your life is revolving around community just like planets revolve around the sun. The community is a source and you are the sink. Every good and bad will be thrown at upon you. Now it’s up to you which energies do you absorb.
In order to improve, you have to first accept your weaknesses and shortcomings in the first place. I confronted my mistakes, owned them, and corrected them. I started with tiny things and gestures which then became a part of my life. I am here to share those things which can make others feel important leaving you happy and satisfied.
Step#1: Home participation
While I started off with my home in which I had no interest. I used to be a couch potato laying down in my warm blanket with volumes of dust on my vanity, bed and study shelf. I went to the cheapest store near my house and brought some sparkling rose gold and silver fairy lights. There were many Barbican bottles in my storeroom. I collected them due to their fancy green colour and shape. I went to the attic from where I brought leftover cardboards to make frames and crafts. Finally, after a DIY session for whole 2 days, my room was literally transformed from a dungeon to a super cute humanly bedroom. My mother was happy with me, my sisters loved the decor. My friends, who came to my place for sleepovers, didn’t sleep the whole night taking selfies and exaggerating their feelings of being amongst the stars 😀 Well, apparently everyone was happy and I succeeded in my first step. You might be wondering, where is the appreciation in it? So, my friends, taking interest in something itself is an appreciation. You don’t have to trumpet your feelings every time. In fact, it is much better to do something to show others that yes, we appreciate you. My intention was to take interest in house chores so that, ultimately, it would be a kind gesture that shows my acknowledgement about how much work my mum does alone every day. Remember sugar cakes; “Actions speak louder than words.”
Step#2: To propitiate your enemies and haters:
As I mentioned earlier, I had always been a straightforward and a rational person due to which I never compensated people for their mistakes twice. I have always loved my friends beyond the limit and helped them even if I had to go out of the way for them. Due to an extremely soft heart with a very rigid coating, people always considered me harsh, rude and dominant. Well, everything happens for a reason. I am happy that many people taught exotic lessons and truth about life to me. Now the above debate wasn’t to get sympathies but to tell you that I had a treasure trove of many people who hated me and to be honest, in most of the cases, I was at fault. So, I hit upon an idea and went to a nearby gift shop. I bought a few presents and kept them in my cupboard for the perfect time. This was my kind of compensation for my mistakes (as they weren’t that heinous to kill yourself as a compensation LOL!) We all have our ways of compensating for our mistakes and to propitiate your haters. Back to the story, I waited for the right occasions like birthdays and convocations to deliver them pretty gifts to their deserving haters 😀 I even made a hater list (just as Santa Claus does on Christmas) for giving presents. Luckily, they were not more than three people and I was saved from being broke. My giveaways included sparkling jewellery pieces, organizers, planners and candle boxes. Results were on the point. Later on, when they texted me back with a thank you message, I appreciated their tolerance and thanked them for the lesson they had taught me in life. My haters were not my haters anymore. Apparently 😀 But, I did my part and I am satisfied with myself.
Step#3: Love Tokens for my Mentors
It took me so long to acknowledge the value and importance of efforts and hard work our teachers put forth for us. I have always been a mischievous student due to which my teachers were a bit disappointed with me. My intention had never been anybody’s disgrace or degradation but maybe I was too lost in my own world, that I never bothered about anyone else. Well, I must appreciate the love and care of our teachers. Teachers are the most generous people of our society. They are the real superheroes! Well, we cant change the past but improve our future. So, in order to make my teachers super happy and to make them feel special and important as they deserve to be, I came up with an idea. At the end of each semester, I used to give all my subject teachers a thank you card with best wishes and appreciation as a tiny love token (being a bit shy and formal, I validated this idea for female teachers only but I am thinking about including male teachers in the list as well). I don’t know if it compensated for the troubles we cause for them or not, but at least I tried. Albert Einstein says: “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” We should take out some time to admire and appreciate our teachers by heart as they deserve all the love and care in the world.
Step#4: Random texts at Awkward Timings
I started to send random cute messages to different girls at awkward timings as 3 am or 5 in the morning when nobody’s awake. This weird time selection was to ensure that the other person is sleeping and he will read the message in the morning. The only hope was to put up a healthy morning smile to somebody’s face that could possibly make up her day. See, we never know if the other person slept last night wetting her pillow with tears of pain. We never know how lonely the other person is and this message saying “Hey beautiful! You are important, You are rare so just take care of yourself” might prove to be the best morning message he or she can ever get. Love is not about quantity, it is all about timing and quality. Love in the happy moments doesn’t matter that much as a shoulder to cry on in hard times does.
Step#5: My 30 minutes of appreciation to every writer
When I started writing and joined websites and blogs, writers became my community. So, I take out 30 minutes or more daily; once in the morning time and once in the evening. Opening up WordPress feed, I bombard people with likes while scrolling down the page. Plus, I regularly comment on the new posts that pop up meanwhile. Why so? Let me tell you that writers are just like any singer who needs an audience of thousands of people to perform, like any player who needs a stadium flooding with people to play, like any painter who needs visitors to visit his gallery. We writers are just like any other artist who needs appreciation. Who needs love and acknowledgement that yes, people are there for you. They are looking forward to your amazing writings. I know this is an era of busy bees and everybody is busy writing his own content, publishing his own work, carrying out his own research. But tell me what will happen if people stop acknowledging your work anymore just because they are all busy with theirs? What if libraries are producing books but there are no visitors? It’s all useless. We writers are each others strength and if we won’t support and appreciate each other, who else will? Even if you’re busy enough, take out some time, maybe in your tea break and start hitting the like buttons and follow random people while sipping the tea and munching your favourite cookie. Read the overview of posts if you’re already out of time. While scrolling down sometimes, I am also stuck with other works so I don’t read the whole posts and hit the like button to appreciate what that person is doing. Do remember what Albert Camus said:
“The purpose of a writer is to keep civilization from destroying itself.”
― Albert Camus
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