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My First Trip to Western France
My first trip to western France was many years ago, and, while I knew it had made an impact on me, I didn’t know just how much until years later. One seemingly small decision ended up altering the course of my life and introducing me not only to a new part of France, but also to someone who would teach me some valuable life lessons, lessons that I strive to incorporate into my daily life and work. During my study abroad in Paris in 1990, I immersed myself in French language and culture, and I found myself feeling oddly at home there, more at home than I had anywhere up…
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Visitor Guide to Fort la Latte and Cap Fréhel
If there is one place in northern Brittany that possesses all of the magic of this region – the sea, impressive cliffs, and stunning medieval architecture – it is Fort la Latte. Situated on a stretch of land that jets out far over the water, it is truly a magnificent sight to behold. One of the many things I love about Brittany is its proximity to the sea. I grew up in the Midwestern part of the United States, and while we have some incredibly beautiful lakes, I find myself drawn to the expansive waters and mighty cliffs in la Bretagne. Whenever I’m there, I make a point to spend…
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How to Pack a Personal Item
I get very excited when I start packing for a trip because that means my vacation is fast approaching. Packing makes it more “real” so to speak, and really gets me in the vacation mindset. The more trips I make across the pond, the quicker and easier it is to pack, but that’s only because I learned from past packing fails and figured out a system that really works. I know there are a lot of people out there who don’t like packing, but hopefully today’s blog post will help change that. I’ve heard people say they love traveling but really hate packing. When I asked what they don’t like…
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Best of Brittany, France in 2022 Part 1
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A Day in Dinard, Bretagne
Dinard is located in the Ille-et-Vilaine department and on the Cote d’Emeraude in Brittany, France. It has long been famous for its pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and crystal clear, turquoise water. To me, Dinard epitomizes the best of what summertime brings – families relaxing on the beach, children (and adults) building castles in the sand, sun worshipers taking a break from bronzing to spend a few minutes swimming in the sea. From the comfort of their towel, splayed out on the sand, visitors can take in the clear sky, the grey-white sand, and the varying shades of blue in the water, contrasted with the bright orange sails, belonging to those…
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A Visit to Saint Suliac, Bretagne, France
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Bécherel: A Book Lover’s Dream
There’s something special about holding a book that someone cherished during his or her lifetime. Many years ago, I bought a set of old books at a bouquiniste (stand with used and antique books) in Paris. A 2nd edition of Les Misérables, in four separate books, pages worn from years of resting in someone’s hands. There were even old letters tucked inside, written to a young girl. From whom, I wondered? An aunt or grandmother, perhaps? The book itself holds two stories: one of the author, and one of the reader. Some people prefer brand new books, but I prefer just about anything with a story. Late last summer, my…
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Going Further Afield: Driving in France
After exploring Rennes by foot (see An Afternoon in Rennes) it’s time to go further afield. Rennes is a hub for train travel, so it is quite easy to spend some time walking about the city then hopping back on a train into any number of towns in Brittany. From Rennes, you can take a train from the Gare de Rennes to the Gare de Saint Malo in just under an hour, and for between 11 euros (2nd class) and 22 euros (1st class) per one-way ticket. (These prices may vary depending on day and month.) You can catch a train to Dinan for about the same fare. Dinard, one…
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The Magical Forest of Huelgoat
Everyone has a special place that speaks to them. For some, it is a sandy beach. For others, it’s the hustle and bustle of a big city. For me, it’s the peace and tranquility of a forest. I love the smell of the moss and earth. I love listening to the sweet whisper of the trees. I love the perfect mix of stillness and the constant movement of wildlife. There’s always something to discover in a forest. Sometimes, it’s a little flower peeking out from between the rocks, or an interesting looking mushroom. Occasionally, you can spot an animal’s den made from fallen branches, sticks, and dried leaves. There’s no…
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Travel Tips: How to Plan Your Trip
The idea of taking a trip is exciting, especially when it’s to a place that you’ve always wanted to visit. Maybe you’ve dreamed of walking through the lavender fields in Provence, or admiring the great works at the Louvre. Perhaps you’ve wanted to explore castles in the Loire Valley or visit the stunning beaches of la Bretagne. While the idea of being at your destination can be exhilarating, it’s working out the logistics of getting there that can be exhausting. I’ve heard friends say that their vacation plans fell through because the idea of planning the trip – especially to a place they had never been before – was just…
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An Afternoon in Rennes
After a comfortable and relaxed train ride from Paris – only about an hour and a half – we arrive in Rennes, the capital city of la Bretagne. Rennes is located in the eastern part of Brittany, in the Ille-et-Vilaine department. It has a population of about 700,000 people, and is listed as one of France’s most livable cities. It is not surprising, with its vibrant and eclectic atmosphere, rich history, art museums, several well-known universities, and almost 60 parks. It also offers a wide variety of restaurants to suit just about anyone’s palette. Rennes is a main hub for travel, which makes it very easy to catch a connecting…
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A Visit to Saint Suliac, Bretagne, France
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Pack light, pack right
If there is one thing that I’ve learned in my years of travel, it is to pack light. There is nothing worse than shuffling through the airport with a heavy bag. These days, I travel as light as possible, with a small carry-on and personal item. People ask how I can pack so lightly, and my answer is, you really only need a basic wardrobe, comprised of quality pieces that can be worn a few times and easily interchanged. I only pack for a week, regardless the length of my stay. With a little laundry soap and a quick trip to the local laundromat (or the bathroom sink), you can…
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Best of Brittany, France in 2022 Part 1
