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French food & wine

March 10, 2011 By

french food and wine

french food and wine

French food is famous all over the world and is also used as a basis of learning in many culinary schools.  The French have an amazing technique when it comes to cooking and take preparation of food very seriously.

 All around France, different towns also have their own unique cuisines, so you will not be limited in any way when it comes to enjoying the fine eats.  Mealtime in a French restaurant is about more than just filling the gap, it is an experience.

Probably one of the reasons for marked differences in cuisine around France is that each area has the best quality in certain ingredients, and what is fine French food without good quality produce.  Normandy for camembert cheese, scallops and mussels; areas in the south of France have watercress and brie; eastern France has an abundance of fruit, including the redcurrant; Burgundy for snails and other fresh cheeses.  All around the country there are incredible flavours, which the French have learned to master.

It’s not all about Foie gras, although this is one of the most famous French delicacies, there are plenty more delights to be had.  With all the renowned cheeses, breads, meats, nuts and fruit & veg it’s no wonder the French became famous for their cooking.

When dining at one of the two hundred and fourteen French restaurants around the country, wash it down with the perfect complement of French wines. 

Wine has evolved alongside French food since the middle ages and is enjoyed with every meal; some of the best French recipes include wine as the main ingredients.  With spectacular vineyards all over the country, you can see why the French are known to enjoy a glass of wine every day, and in most cases savour it as an appetiser before the meal has even begun.

Just as the food differs between regions, so does the wine.  The French have always believed there is a perfect wine for every food, and so the red and white grape varieties have their place alongside the superior dishes in all the different areas of France.

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French festivals, music & events

February 28, 2011 By

A number of spectacular events take place in France every year, some already world renowned, such as the Cannes Film Festival held in May, in the south of France.  It is one of the most prestigious events, which brings a buzz of excitement to the country.

Around the same time every year France hosts the French tennis open.  Only the ‘cream of the crop’ in the tennis world takes part in this event held in Paris every year, and if you’re a tennis lover, it’s a tournament not to be missed.

France is known as music central in Europe boasting a variety of styles, and hosts a number of festivals across the board, such as the International Opera festival, which takes place in Provence and is one of the most reputable classical festivals in Europe.

For lovers of rock music, there are the route du rock, rock en Seine festivals and the rock festival of Belfort. Jazz gives you the jazz in La Villette festival, which is the capitals most famous of its kind, as well as jazz in Marciac, and the Beaune jazz festival which includes wine tasting. There is also a Paris techno parade and a variety of other concerts for everyone’s taste.

The main square festival introduces well known acts such as the black eyed peas, pearl jam, pink and many more.  The next one taking place in July 2011, it is one of many not to be missed festivals, taking place in France during that time of year.

Don’t forget about theatre and dance; France is host to many outstanding festivals covering all manors of dance and theatre productions. 

Aside from festivals and concerts, France also offer a number of unique and exciting events throughout the year, such as, Hide and seek at the cayenne carnival, with parades, music and all sorts of entertainment taking place over a two month period.

For the fitness fanatics why not take part in the London – Paris doctors of the world bike ride, it’s a whole new way of taking in the surroundings. 

France has also brought out a new electric event for ice racing that is bound to have you on the edge of your seat.

And if all these events, festivals and experiences aren’t enough for you, there is always the list of exhibitions in galleries and museums all over France.  Not to mention the exciting theme parks scattered across the country, from Marine-land where you can appreciate the creatures of the ocean; Asterix Park, with shows, attractions and a number of adventure areas, to Disneyland Paris and Futuroscope which is one of the most famous theme parks in Europe besides Disneyland.  Futuroscope is a unique world with futuristic buildings, science, technology and entertainment.

 France has definitely proven itself to be spectacularly entertaining throughout the year with endless possibilities and discoveries.  

 

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French Art, Architecture & sights

February 23, 2011 By

France has tens of thousands of Monuments, museums, abbeys, chateaux’s, and manor houses, not to mention breathtaking landscapes and a legion of traditions.  All of these things make it a prosperous and beautiful country, particularly rich in art.

The Eiffel tower believe it or not was not always as loved as it is now; built to mark the centenary of the revolution it was almost torn down in the early 1900’s.  Thankfully it was spared, and can now offer us the most incredibly breathtaking views across the city of light.

The Louvre is another well known attraction, bursting with history and art.  Its vastness can be quite intimidating, and it has been said that it would take the good part of a year to see every single piece of art in the museum.  So with enough time, money, interest and stamina, it really could be the most astounding place you ever visit in France.

The Notre Dame Cathedral, for those who have watched the Da Vinci code will recognise, is the most visited sight in Paris.  The bronze star across the street from the main entrance marks point zero, from which all roads leading out of Paris are measured from.  It is not only famous for its Catholic focus over the centuries, but also for its outstanding architecture, with so many spectacular features, it truly is the heart of Paris. 

With France’s heritage and sights it is no surprise that many of the French attractions are some of the most visited or largest in the world.  The Palais des Papes is the largest gothic palace in the world for instance, and the Pere Lachaise cemetery the most visited.

But not only is the country rich in magnificent architecture and museum arts, its breathtaking landscapes and gardens are an art of their own.  There are 9 national parks and 45 regional natural parks in the area that include miles of hiking trails and beautiful sceneries with many inhabitants, some of which can be viewed at one of the many bird-watching sites.  There are also in total 327 nature reserves, dedicated to protecting the natural habitats. 

You would need a lifetime to take in the sights, arts and masterpieces of France.  To explore all the museums, arches, courtyards, amphitheatres, cemeteries, sculptures and masses of art, historic or modern.  You could read a hundred books about France and still only be touching on its wealth of creativity. All of this without even taking into consideration the events, festivals and everything else France has to offer. 

 

 

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