Pineau … or Pinot? Do you know the difference?

What is the difference between Pineau and Pinot? When I first met my wife's family in France, I had never heard of Pineau. When I did hear of it, I thought people were referring to Pinot – as in Pinot Grigio, which I love! But I did not realise there is a great...
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Le golf en Bretagne et Pays de la Loire

La Bretagne et les Pays de la Loire sont bien connus pour leur excellent choix de superbes parcours de golf à la portée de tous les niveaux et de toutes les bourses. Nous vous présentons ici quelques parcours régionaux, en vous donnant un aperçu des équipements et...
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La Rentrée des Classes.

La Rentrée des Classes is near The long Summer holidays are nearing the end in France and everyone is getting ready for "La Rentrée des Classes". Children have been on holiday since July 6th, enjoying (hopefully) 8 weeks of fun and games. Firstly, teachers will be...
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La Roche Bernard

Introduction to La Roche-Bernard La Roche-Bernard is a small town in Southern Brittany. It is a very exciting place to visit for many reasons. The town is situated on the River Vilaine, and plays host to a myriad of small boats in its natural harbour. Two superb...
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Local Activities

Whatever your interests, the Brittany / Pays de la Loire region of France certainly offers an incredible range of local activities. From walking to sailing or from playing golf to relaxing on one of the many glorious sandy beaches. Do you prefer a self-catering...
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Category: French Language

When, and when not, to use ‘salut’ in French

by | Aug 15, 2012

I have just bumped into Veronique in Super U. She has just taken her children to the dentist and is a little bemused. The dentist retired last year and now a younger dentist has taken over his...

Will France become a bilingual nation?

by | Apr 27, 2012

France is a very proud nation. They are proud of their country, of their heritage and of their language. The French take their holidays in France. I am not sure of the exact percentage, but I...

Coat Aillis – What’s in Breton names?

by | Apr 22, 2012

Breton Names The name of our place, Coat Aillis, is interesting. Being in Brittany all the place names are in Breton. Our neighbour’s house is Poul Ranet, which means Frog pond, whereas Coat Aillis...

Tu and Vous – when to use each in French

by | Mar 19, 2012

Tu and Vous… the rules French people talk to one another formally or informally, depending on who they are speaking to. There are, of course, some rules. Always use the ‘tu’ form (informal)...

What’s in a name?

by | Mar 26, 2011

Its really interesting the name of our place is Coat Aillis but my Breton purist friends are quite sniffy about it as its a meaningless name and has been corrupted by the previous owner. The...