The Local Buzz - Sept/Oct - Issue 4

Buzz The Local

those living,working working or • Gironde • Dordogne • Lot et Garonne • Lot • Gers • Tarn et Garonne N.Haute Garonne ForFor those living, orvisiting visiting Dordogne, Lot et Garonne, Gironde, Lot, Haut Garonne, Tarn•et Garonne & Gers

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 2018

New I’m

priceless

The

vines are calling 7 WONDERS PENSIONS WELL BEING

T

Win

a Pro photo session

WHAT’S ON NEWS, REVIEWS & EVENTS

Business Directory • Food & Drink • Local Artisans

Navigating the minefield of financial planning in France To protect your wealth for you and your family you have to review your finances when you move to France. Our seminar will discuss the key issues of becoming resident; taxation implications and effective tax planning; French succession tax and law and estate planning solutions; maximising your pensions; suitable investment strategies and Brexit.

We can also arrange personal consultations with our Bergerac, Béziers or Bordeaux offices.

Seminars

Wed 17 Oct CAHORS (46) Hôtel Terminus

Thu 18 Oct AGEN (47) Château de’Aubiac

Timing for both seminars 11 for 11.30am start, until 1pm Book your seat now

05 53 63 49 19

bergerac@blevinsfranks.com Online booking is also available from our website

www.blevinsfranks.com

S1-fr

INTERNATIONAL TAX ADVICE • INVESTMENTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PENSIONS Blevins Franks Group is represented in France by the following companies: Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) and Blevins Franks France SASU (BFF).

BFFM is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Mediation Directive or the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II, the applicable regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks France SASU (BFF), is registered with ORIAS, registered number 07 027 475, and authorised as ‘Conseil en Investissements Financiers’ and ‘Courtiers d’Assurance’ Category B (register can be consulted on www.orias.fr). Member of ANACOFI-CIF. BFF’s registered office: 1 rue Pablo Neruda, 33140 Villenave d’Ornon – RCS BX 498 800 465 APE 6622Z. Garantie Financière et Assurance de Responsabilité Civile Professionnelle conformes aux articles L 541-3 du Code Monétaire et Financier and L5126 and 512-7 du Code des Assurances (assureur MMA). Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists.

Hello from your Queen Bee

Join us... www.facebook.com/ TheLocalBuzzMag www.instagram.com/ the_local_buzz_mag

Firstly, thank you so much for all your lovely, very kind and overwhelming comments about our first issue. We are grateful for your support.

In this issue, as well as a look at pensions, we also include a report about the current state of the property market. The taste bud-busting food and drink pages are concentrating on fish and white wine, whilst gardening gives you the heads-up about keeping colour and preparing the garden for the autumn.

Spas are also under the spotlight with a few ideas for local spa centres in your area. Talking of water, an experienced pool technician dives into the subject of winterising and why it is important for your pool and equipment, not to mention your electricity bill.

This time, our local artisan feature concentrates on jewellery as an ideal gift for birthdays, anniversaries and, of course, Christmas. Planning ahead? Good idea as it also includes a fabulous reader offer.

There are more places to discover in Seven Wonders, Katie answers a question that many people avoid and we have had fun with the crossword, word search and Buzz words. Oh yes, and don’t forget to enter the prize competition!

Enjoy!

Lesley Ashburner

By the way, if you can’t pick up a copy, every issue will be on our new website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com /read-online and overseas postal subscriptions are available.

PHOTOGRAPHY : JEFF ROSS

Faces behind the Buzz

JEANETTE HYDE, Director, moved to Duras in 2013 with her husband Richard, having had a career in management accountancy. Experienced in renovation, she established a very successful gite and B&B business, thanks to her knowledge of social media, and is well versed in French administration. A keen cook, she enjoys working with seasonal, regional produce and wines.

PAMELA LA FORGIA, Director, came to St Sernin in 2015 with her husband John.

Born in New York she spent most of her life working in advertising and web media in Minnesota before moving to Honolulu. Having made the move, as an American, to France she has a different understanding of the legal aspects of living here. As lovers of opera they are often found in Bordeaux and Toulouse.

The Local Buzz • September & october 2018

LESLEY ASHBURNER, Managing Director, came to South West France in 2003 with her two children, her husband Peter and a hot air balloon. Having had her own PR and marketing agency in the UK for 30 years, she continued to work with major clients on PR and copywriting after the move. She has renovated two houses and her dream is to build her own home here in France.

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We hope you enjoy our new magazine. Please spread the word about The Local Buzz and let our advertisers know that you saw them in this first issue.

For all enquiries please contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Editorial & Managing Director: Lesley Ashburner Production & Creative Director: Pamela La Forgia Distribution & Finance Director: Jeanette Hyde Art Director: Sarah Vernon Design Assistant: Lucie Robbe Advertising: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Photography: Shutterstock or Jeff Ross unless otherwise stated Regular contributors: Katie Gardner, John & Emma Gilchrist, Sue Sargeant, Jeff Ross Our thanks also go to: John Cook, Jason Alexander, Jerry Green, Christine Haworth-Staines, Adrienne McAllister, Jerome Daltrozzo, Anna Ryder Richardson, Maison Guinguet, Puzzles-to-Print and Catherine Lerasle.

Cover: Shutterstock

CONTENTS September & October Issue 34

38

The Local Buzz is free and is published by Marketplace PR (London) Ltd, The Mill House, Boundary Road, Loudwater, HP10 9QN, England.

Siret applied for.

ISSN 2516-8134.

Distribution points can be found on our website www.thelocalbuzzmag.com.

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Printed by Rotimpres SA. All trademarks are trademarks of the companies concerned.

No material may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

The general editorial and articles in this issue do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor or publishers.

Please ensure that the company you are dealing with is registered in France.

To become a distribution point, to advertise, to send us editorial, or for any other enquiry contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Emergency Numbers: 15 - SAMU Service on a nationwide basis – call for medical assistance 17 - Police (gendarmerie) 18 - General emergency - you will need to ask for ambulance, gendarmes or service d’incendie (feu) or sapeur pompiers 112 - European standard emergency number for anywhere in EEC 114 - Text messaging service for the deaf or hard of hearing

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The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

REGULARS 3 Hello 7 What’s The Buzz 8 The start of our 14-page regional guide to local entertainment 27 Buzz Bits 32 Seven Wonders 34 Food & drink 38 Autumn in the garden 48 Buzz words 60 Puzzle page 62 Business Directory 66 Just Droning

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FEATURES 28 The Vines are Calling 31 Winterising pools 36 Bee my honey 40 Don’t stop the workers 42 Cycling Part 2 44 Golf for everyone 47 Property Buzz 56 Artisan Jeweller 58 Pensions advice WELL -BEING 52 Spas for all 54 Ask Katie 55 Bee Kind PLUS… 61 Pro photo Competition 65 Bee Heard

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11

5

TWELVE A Boutique Hair Salon

12 Rue Du Temple 24500 Eymet 05 53 23 35 46

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: t I found.

Woah! Look wha WE LOVE OLD STUFF

what’s the

BUZZ

OUR PICK OF WHAT’S ON IN YOUR REGION Vide Greniers

• Beaumont, 21 October (24) • Pujols, 16 September (47) • Libourne, 23 September (33) • Cazaubon, 7 October (32) • Montauban. 6 October (82) • Castelginest, 22 September (31) • Figeac, 21 October (46)

Are you Buzzing?

GIRONDE

DORDOGNE

Don’t forget to add your event, for free, to our What’s On pages at thelocalbuzzmag.com

LOT

Marché Gourmand

• Périgueux, 15 Sept (24) • Castillones, (Bio) 1 October (47) • Biganos, 7 September (33) • Cahors, Wed and Sat (4) • St Antonin Noble Val, 15 September (82) • Condom, Sun (32) • Esparcette, (Org) Sat (31)

Halloween

• Jumilhac le Grand, 31 October (24) • Agen, 31 October (47) • Thil, 31 October (31) • Villandraut, 30 October (33) • Most large towns (46) • Condom, 31 October 16:00 to 18:00 (32)

• St Amans du Pech, 30

“Trick or treat?”

“Des bonbons ou un sort” (sweets or a spell) would be closer or perhaps “une betise ou des friandises” (mischief or sweets). Whatever you are doing, many shops and supermarkets are now stocking Halloween costumes and pumpkin carving kits. Have a spooky time.

October (82)

T TARN et G GARONNE

LOT et GARONNE

GERS

ORTH NORTH HAUTE GARONNE

Winemakers’ Procession in St Emilion

VENDANGE AT ST EMILION

P-P-Pick up a pumpkin

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

Le Ban des Vendanges de la Jurade at Saint Emilion takes place on the 15 and 16 September when the red robed winemakers of the Jurade head a procession through the town to the Tour du Roy. A fireworks display declares the vendange open and the festivities begin. Dating back to 1199 but dissolved during the French Revolution because of its English heritage, the Jurade was reformed in 1948. Today, it has 3000 members acting as ambassadors for the Saint-Emilion appellations around the world.

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GIRONDE

what’s the

BUZZ

RICH TONES It’s New & The Riches Heures de la Réole is a festival dedicated to classical music. International soloists and more than 60 musicians will be performing at a number of venues in La Réole and Monsegur from 27 to 30 September. Dedicated to works by French composers such as Couperin, Helfer and Lully, and Italian Baroque from Vivaldi and Albinoni, these exceptional concerts will also highlight pieces from the 12th century as well as the 20th century French composer and pianist, Olivier Messiaen. Highly anticipated, tickets are available at www.lesrichesheuresdelareole.fr

A magical, classical music weekend

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it’s here!

They say there are at least 36 reasons to visit the Fête du Vin Nouveau in the heart of the Chartrons, Bordeaux on 27 and 28 October. A blessing of the new wine takes place at 11:30 at the Saint Louis church and there will be a free organ recital at 16:00.

Local artisans, antiques, contemporary art, clothing and design pieces can all be found at the accompanying brocante in this historical commercial district. Intended to be fun and lively, the rue Notre Dame will also be packed with entertainers as well as Jazz and rock musicians. Oh yes, and don’t forget to try the hot chestnuts with the wine, the main star of the event. Who knows, you might want to take a bottle or two home with you! www.gironde-tourisme. fr/fetes-manifestations/ fete-du-vin-nouveauet-de-la-brocante-37-abordeaux

IT’S CLASSIC! Over 200 classic cars will be meeting in Salles on 9 September at the Château de Salles. The surrounding villages will have a chance to see these incredible models during the morning drivethroughs and refreshment stops. In the afternoon, they will be parked up as part of a static exhibition alongside

a display of ancient tractors.

This fun afternoon will also include a local féte with a variety of entertainment and refreshments. Entry is free and classic car owners are invited to participate at €10 per vehicle. Contact the Val de Eyre Old Vehicle Association on 0616 92 12 36

Classic cars, tractors and a local fête

WALK THE LEO WAY The discoveries of Leo Drouyn, the famous 19th century archaeologist born in Izon in 1816 is celebrated at the Festival Leo. Taking place from 2 September for 15 days, this free event gives cyclists and walkers the chance to see true Aquitaine heritage. 38 Routes have been drawn up to include Roman architecture, chateaux and manor houses, medieval times, monuments, and nature, wine and heritage. You won’t have to go digging but themed events, exhibitions, workshops and musical entertainment will be uncovered along the way. The 12-page, multi-coloured leaflets are available at tourist offices.

38 Routes to explore

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

FOOD Making a Splach!

VW vans will be ten a penny on the seafront at Soulac-sur-Mer from 15 to 16 September as the first ever Splach comes to town. If you don’t know the difference between a Bus, Split and Bay VW, now will be the time to find out. Whilst there, why not dip your toes in the

sea or join in the Hawaiian canoe and paddle competition organised by the Médoc Waterman Club. For the more adventurous (and fit), you could also register for the Médoc Waterman Challenge, a triathlon of rowing, swimming and a 15km run. If not, stroll through

the shops, take in the bars and restaurants or visit the covered market. The village will feature a professional market as well as games and events to keep little ones occupied – if they want a change from the beach that is! https://www.facebook. com/splach.soulac/

LIGHTS, CAMERA,

ACTION

H

ere’s one for lovers of creative cinema. More than 50 films will be shown over five days at this years’ FIFIB (Festival International du Film Indépendant).

With showings from all over the world, this innovative and multi-discipline festival looks at contemporary artists as well as leading film-makers. Defending artistic independence in

terms of both creativity and spirit, it also includes meetings, masterclasses, concerts and exhibitions.

This avant-garde event is based on global creations and the publicity material mentions that English is spoken.

Catch a viewing at Le Village du FiFIB in Bordeaux from 9 to 15 October. http://fifib.com/

VIN & CHOC

GALORE

GIRONDE

FAST

The Food Truck Festival is pulling up at Chateau Léognan on 8 and 9 September and at the Hippodrome de Bordeaux-Le Bouscat on 29 and 30 September. This could be gastro heaven for some but there is much more than burgers, seafood, tapas and traditional and exotic foods at this foodie festival!

Wine and chocolate tastings, food and wine pairings, music concerts, a mobile escape game and a Mölkky tournament (similar to wooden skittles) will also be there, as will lots of activities for children.

For details of the flamingo concert, DJ set, dancing on the quays, helicopter rides, guided tours of the Musée du Vin and much, much more go to the animations page at www.foodtruckfestival-bordeaux.com How about a delicious glass of red with your burger?

Did you know that the Cité de Vin holds a

barrel load of different workshops? One of them is Vins et Chocolats du Monde which runs every Thursday from 18:30 in September, October and December. Look at the ateliers-visites section at www.laciteduvin.com

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

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Up up and away!

Lighter than air, hot air balloons are a magical sight and this festival will allow you up close and even on-board with a first flight.

Flying in a hot air balloon is like being an ornament on a Christmas tree in that everything appears to move around you because you feel no movement. Flying free with the wind, there is no sensation of vertigo either.

Watching a balloon come to life, first with cold air and then with the heat from the roaring flames of the burner is awe-inspiring. Watching it at night, stationery on the ground but glowing in time to music is a sight never to be forgotten. Weather permitting, this Vol au Dessus d’un Nid de Mammouths festival at Rouffignac Saint Sernin de Reilhac on 21 to 23

There is nothing like a balloon flight

September will include all that and more. Model aircraft and kites will be flying during the day, alongside art exhibits as well as regional produce and a kite workshop. An equestrian event will take place on Friday evening. Dinner by reservation. http://rouffignac-loisirs.fr/

Chopin, Faureé and Debussy are amongst the composers being honoured in a special piano recital by Nicolas Stavy, the celebrated concert pianist. Passionate about the piano since his early childhood, he graduated from the Conservatoire de Genève with the highest honours and was awarded a special prize at Warsaw’s International Chopin Piano Competition. He likes to cross the divide between music and the arts and has also appeared in Wladyslaw Szpilman’s The Pianist.

The concert starts at 20:30 in the Salle de la Rode, Domme, on 27 October.

05 53 29 01 91.

DORDOGNE

PIANO BUZZ CLASSICS what’s the

CONKERS OR CHESTNUTS?

Whether you want to play with them or eat them, Villefranche-du-Perigord is the place to be for the 30th Fête de la Châtaigne et du Cèpe on 20 and 21 October.

Chestnuts and mushrooms will be everywhere as well as music, entertainment and all sorts of competitions, including spit the chestnut! Tel: 05 53 29 98 37

A BERGERAC LOVE AFFAIR

Not to be missed, Bergerac Désir is an entirely new production from the Cercle Musical Company. Originally formed as a male choir in 1872, this enthusiastic organisation transformed itself with a new type of entertainment reminiscent of the music hall genre in 1950. Today, it presents an extravaganza every three years with a talented cast of volunteers including 30 artists and 30 back-stage supporters looking after costumes, scenery, props and lighting, etc.

Running from 7 October to

11 November at the Centre Culturel in Bergerac, this 2.5 hour show celebrates its 145 year love-affair with this beautiful town. The curtain rises for Sunday matinees and evening performances from Tuesday to Saturday.

Tickets are available from the Bergerac Tourist Office or 05 53 57 03 11.

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

An extravaganza celebrating a 145 year love-affair

11

DORDOGNE

WHERE’S THE LIGHT?

What was it like to live in a chateau before electricity, in the dark? You can find out at the Visite Nocturne du Chateau at Jumilhac le Grand from 1 to 30 September. Roam the corridors and experience life in the heart of the 16th and 17th centuries with just a torch or candles to light your way.

Ideal for all ages, this tour is set to a background of Baroque music and includes introductions by the Knight of Eon and other gentle folk who will help you to discover the origins of this historic castle. If you arrive in fancy dress, perhaps as a fairy, a gentle woman, a troubadour (musician), a Lord of the Manor or a Princess, there is a price reduction at the door.

05 53 52 42 97.

Enjoy a fancy dress, candlelit chateau tour with baroque music.

Rock On 30 sculptures on the Chateau des Vigiers lawns

SCULPTURES

IN THE GARDEN Incorporating 30 sculptures by 12 contemporary artists, this year’s event is organised

by Galerie Benedicte Giniaux and is hosted by Chateau des Vigiers at Monestier. Echoing the stunning, natural environment and displayed on the lawns, these individual

sculptures take many forms and include works by Cayla, Dall’anee, Fournier, Gosti, Hirlay, Lainville, Marchand, Michel-Valem, Vanho and Wohlfahrt. The exhibit is free and is open from 10:00 to 21:00, until 16 September.

06 80 31 09 56.

Jazz and the Blues continue into September with Jazz en Chais on 7 September at Chateau de Tiregand at Creysse. The Red Fish Band from Toulouse will introduce this fun festival with an animated performance over dinner at 19:00, with the 21-piece Jazz Band San-

guinet taking to the stage at 21:00. Reviving the spirit of jazz is the theme and bop, swing and legendary standards will be given the full treatment by musicians and soloists alike. www.jazzpourpre.com/ jazz-en-chais-2018.

A parade and a display of American cars during the day plus an evening dinner concert starring Purple Rock awaits you at Monsaguel, near Issigeac, on 22 September. This exciting tribute band is well known for its covers of rock and roll, blues pop, reggae and impro-rock hits and will take you through dinner to dancing without missing a beat.

06 11 34 10 86.

love that jazz 12

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

www.agence-eleonor.com Agence Eleonor Estate Agency, 36-38 rue du Temple, 24500 EYMET Tél. : 05 53 27 83 45, info@agence-eleonor.com Other offices Villeréal, Bergerac, Beynac, Monpazier

Ref: 7300-EY. €577,500 HAI. Beautiful, completely renovated stone property comprising entry, lounge/dining room, large living room, kitchen, scullery, three bedrooms, office /4th bedroom, bathroom and toilet, 11000 m ² garden with private access to the river. Rare find, an early viewing is recommended!!!

(5% fees inc) DPE: C

Ref: 7293-MO. € 295,000 HAI Countryside stone house on1 acre of land.

Large 52 m² living room with wonderful fireplace. The kitchen opens onto a south exposed terrace; 2 bedrooms and a shower room, separate wc, attached garage. Quiet location only 4 km from a bastide with amenities.

(5% fees inc) DPE: N/A

Ref: 7315-VI. €136,250 HAI. In the heart of a medieval village this stone house offers a fully equipped kitchen, living-room, bedroom, laundry and utility-room on the ground floor, toilet, 3 bedrooms and shower-room on the first floor and a bedroom with an ensuite bathroom on the second floor. In good condition (9% fees inc) DPE: E

Ref: 7304-EY. €185,500 HAI. Built in 2013 (nearly 5 years builders guarantee remaining) this lovely bungalow has a fully fitted kitchen with appliances, bright and airy sitting/dining room, utility room, storeroom, 3 bedrooms, shower room and separate wc. Outside is a large fully enclosed garden.

(8% fees inc) DPE:C

Ref: 7308-EY. €236,500 HAI. Only a few minutes from EYMET village, beautiful new bungalow with kitchen/ living room/dining room, three bedrooms, dressing, bathroom, fenced garden, detached garage, pool house with terrace and «lagoon» swimming pool.

(7.5% fees inc) DPE: C

Ref: 7324-MO. €225,750 HAI. Fantastic village house with garden. A patio, used as a summer living room, is perfectly situated on one side of the garden, and the house on the other. A living/dining room with open kitchen and separate wc, large bedroom with ensuite, exposed stone and beams, two bedrooms, and a shower room (7.5% fees inc) DPE : Vierge

Ref: 7312-VI. €40,000 HAI. With stunning views over the valley and a little garden area, this stone house in need of renovation offers a kitchen / dining-room, 2 bedrooms and shower-room with toilet on ground floor, laundry-room and studio apartment in the basement that opens onto the garden. No heating. Mains drainage. (minimum fees inc) DPE: N/A

Ref: 4284-EY. €235,000 HAI. Large 250m² house comprising, on the first floor: 2 bedrooms, living room, bathroom, small kitchen and patio. The second floor is made up of a bedroom, large kitchen, bathroom and living room. It has stunning views from its elevated position over the countryside and a beautiful shaded garden.

(7.5% fees inc) DPE: F

www.hideawayfrance.com Phone: 0553 89 77 58

Labarthe, Baleyssagues, Duras 47120

hideawayfrance@gmail.com

LOT ET GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

Creepy!

The older you are the more terrifying it will become in the Château de Duras on 31 October. Sorry, it’s not for the young ones but those aged between 10 and 12 can enter at 19:00, with the scariness increasing every hour, along with the age of entry. Then at 22:00 those over 18 can put their bravery to the test. Go ahead, we dare you! 0553 83 77 32

WALK THIS WAY! d’Agenais, the Musée Ecole de Lamarque and the quays at Tonneins. With a departure point at Lagruère and available until 31 October for groups of 10 or more, it costs just €3 per person.

05 53 89 53 69

Discover the fascinating history of the Garonne, the 19th Century Canal, the fauna and the flora with a heritage walking tour.

This guided walk combines landscapes and springs by taking in the port of Mas

HONEY GALORE! Mosaic originals

L’Art en Toit will be thrilled to bits if you attend its workshop on mosaics, collage and pottery. Working with mirrors, paintings, pottery and other collage materials, these professionally led workshops aim to help you develop your own art form. Open to adults and those over 4 years of age, the course lasts 1.5 hours and costs €10 to include materials and kiln. For dates and times visit www.lartentoit. wixsite.com

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The Fête du Miel at Boé is being held on 16 September and will bring a hive full of honey in all its forms, as well as entertainment based on a bee theme and a producers market.

Open from 10:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 17:00, this sweet event is free.

05 53 48 10 82

Classical Works With organ and a choir of close to 100, the Church at Cuzorn near Monflanquin will be filled with classical music on 14 October. Produced by the local and very musically accomplished, LémancePrince Noir, the concert pays tribute to the Requiem

by Gabriel Fauré and the “Messee” works of Charles Gounod. Tickets are €10. www.ensemblevocalprincenoir.jimdo.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Relive the days of motorbikes and Johnny Halliday at Labastide-Castel-Amouroux on 22 September. A shiny line-up of “motos” will be revving up to kick start the festivities with a procession at 16:00, followed by a jambon braisé dinner at 20:00 and then the main event. Johnny Halliday, well his number one impersonator, Phil Lyn, will be in concert at 22:00!

The concert is free and dinner is €12pp. www.eterritoire.fr

Peace man!

Dig out your beads, fling on your flares and go as psychedelic as you can at the ‘60’s night at SaintColomb-de-Lauzun on 27 October. If you can remember the dance moves of the time, all the better.

Our memories seem to recall lots of peace signs in the air and

AGEN AGAIN There is so much to do at the Foire Expo d’Agen this year that you might want to go for more than one day! Open from 12 to 16 September, it includes a series of different villages, each with its own theme. These include vintage items, motorbikes, agricultural produce, beauty and sensuality, drones (and yes you can test drive one), the scary Star Flyer ride and all kinds of entertainment, music and additional events.

Open daily from 10:00, it closes at 20:00 on Wed and Thur, 22:00 on Fri and Sat, and 19:00 on Sun. Entry is €2 and free for children under 12. For a full programme go to www.foire-agen.com

LOT ET GARONNE

HERE’S JOHNNY

huge hairdo’s. Are you old enough to remember?

05 53 94 13 36

Gasandji African jazz and soul comes

ly be an emotional experi-

to Mézin on 6 October with

ence with music evocative

the fabulous and charismat-

of both today’s trends and

ic Congo singer Gasandji.

an ethereal African beat.

Featuring both contempo-

Tickets are €10 and you

rary and traditional music,

can hear a sample track at

this concert will undoubted-

www.gasandji.com

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

There’s something for all the family

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To arrange a visit, call Fran 06 43 83 88 61 Find us on the D127 between Cazaugitat and St Ferme.

Googlemaps Chateau Astrelus

NE PAS JETER SUR LA VOIE PUBLIQUE

Visit the chateau and taste a chilled glass of Bordeaux rosé or try our delicious Bordeaux reds.

Discover how our wines are made and take a walk in the vineyard.

Chateau astrelus

Lieu dit Meillier - 33790 Cazaugitat info@chateauastrelus.com

www.chateauastrelus.com

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LOT

what’s the

BUZZ

Flying high For the last 30 years, the majestic setting of Rocamadour has hosted a European balloon festival. This year is no exception and the 4th weekend of September will see a heady display of multi-coloured and special

shaped hot air balloons in the sky. This is a tremendous sight coupled with the sound of the burners, then silence as the balloons drift upwards to the sky, or down towards the rocky cliffs and the trees. Subject to weather

conditions, the balloons will launch from L’Hospitalet at dawn and dusk. For photographers, an ideal venue is at the top of the cliffs at Alzou Canyon. For a complete programme visit www.rocamadouraerostat.fr

FÊTE VOTIVE A Fête Votive is when

the village honours its patron saint and there will be a real festival atmosphere in Bretenoux on 7 to 9 September.

Starting with a welcome at 09:00 on Friday and a torch procession at 21:30, the three days include dancing on Friday and Saturday, street entertainers, a Saturday night fireworks display, parades and a Mass and a Remembrance Service at the monument on Sunday. 06 81 82 55 73

Metamorphosis Ossip Zadkine lived in Les Arques for several years and, during that time, carved a huge Christ on the Cross and Pietà. These sculptures can be seen in the 12th-century church opposite the Zadkine museum. Open mornings and afternoons until 31 October, the museum houses many of his works which include transitional sculptures based on the theme of human bodies and objects. In partnership with the Zadkine Museum of Paris, this thought-provoking exhibit highlights why he was one of the greatest sculptors of the 20th century. For times, visit www.musses.lot.fr

Dance the night away to your favourite hits

BOOGIE NIGHTS Parades, a Fête Foraine (fun fair) and street entertainers will be bringing a festival atmosphere to the Place Jean Jaurès at Saint Céré on 14 and 15 September.

At night, boogie on down at the disco which starts at 21:00 and will be followed

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

by a dazzling display of fireworks at 23:00. The next day will bring a festive parade through this pretty, vibrant and lively medieval town at 15:15 and more disco dancing from 21:00.

Entrance is free.

05 65 10 01 10

Transitional sculptures by Zadkine

17

LOT

A JAZZY DAY REMEMBER PETRUCCIANI?

Violins at the ready

Two sisters, two violins and a night dedicated to chamber music await you at the Salle de l’horloge in Gramat from 21:00 on 29 September. As former first violin soloists of the Paris Chamber Orchestra, Sarah and Déborah Nemtanu are both internationally acclaimed.

Sarah is no stranger to Carnegie Hall in New York, the Champs-Elysées theatre in Paris, Musikverein in Vienna and the Century Hall in Tokyo. Déborah was chosen by the prestigious Perlman Programme in the USA to perform with leading musicians including the great Yitzhak Perlman. Tickets are €20 and €35. www.lesmusicalesducausse.fr

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As one of France’s most famous jazz musicians with enormous success on the international scene, Michel Petrucciani created classic, American-inspired jazz that was both rhythmic and soulful. Performed by his younger brother, Philippe, on guitar, singer Nathalie Blanc, drummer Guy Ould Yadav and organist Thierry Gonzalez, this special evening is dedicated to this unique man and his work. A new duo in the form of clarinettist Thomas Jorda and guitarist Kevin Papillon will open the evening at 20:30 on 20 October in Fons near Figeac.

For ticket prices go to www.adda-lot. com/agenda

This will definitely be different. A jazz concert with two of the world’s best soloists!

The talented and free-spirited trumpeter Quentin Ghomari is joining with the fabulous, sometimes avant-garde pianist Marc Benham (famous for his album Fats Food) to bring an evening of vibrant, multi-styled jazz to Albas on 5 October at 21:00.

05 65 20 19 54 Free spirited and avant-garde musicians

Festival d’Orgue

Are you moved and inspired by organ music? The combination of organ and trumpet in this 3-day musical festival will certainly be an emotional experience. Held at the Cathédrale Saint –Etienne in Cahors from 11 to 14 October. It is billed as a Concert du Marché!, you may even be able to visit the market at the same time!

For performance times visit www.tourisme-cahors.fr

CONTEMPORARY DANCE Inspired and dedicated choreographers have put together this contemporary Festival of Dance at Place Luctérius in Cahors from 20 to 23 September. Covering different worlds of dance, this show

of contrasts is presented by the Traces Contemporaines Association. With evocative beats and a modern approach to dance, it will fill the senses and enrich the mind.

www.tracescontemporaines.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

You have until 27 September to see Laques d’Art, an exhibition covering the ancient oriental art of lacquering. On show at the chateau at Lavardens, the display includes works from over 20 of the most recognised artists across wood, glass, paintings, panels, sculptures and, amongst others, jewellery. www.chateaulavardens.com

what’s the

BUZZ

Circus circus Who, what, where ?

Nogaro Nostalgia The Nogaro Classic Festival at the Paul Armagnac circuit on 6 and 7 October highlights the very best of classic motor racing in all its forms. Waiting for the first green light will be a parade of around 500 cherished cars, closely followed by an open circuit event and deafening demonstrations by classic Formula 1 vehicles, as well as single seater racing

cars from the 70’s and 90’s, and pre-war models; the pioneers of car racing. All kinds of classic vehicles will be lined up for inspection in the paddock at the heart of the event, whilst rally cars will leave for a 100km jaunt on Saturday afternoon. The chequered flag will be lowered at the end of a grand parade on Sunday. For full details www.classicfestival.fr

Around 30 organisations will be vying for your at-

GERS

THE LACQUER EFFECT

Discover the daring feats and magical moments that make the world of circus so special at the Circa Festival du Cirque Actuel from 19 to 28 October in Auch, with additional performances at Marciac and Jegun. For over 25 years, this fun-packed festival has been wowing audiences with awe-inspiring performances from professional and amateur artists alike, revealing the diversity and originality of their skills in this constantly challenging environment. Held across different venues, there will not be a performing lion or elephant in sight.

For times and prices go to www.circa-auch.fr

tention at the Val de Gers Association Day at Place du Foirail, Masseube on 9 September. Social, sport and cultural activities will be featured as well as a track event organised by the Tourist Office, product demonstrations, first time try-outs and an all-day library. Open from 10:00 to 17:00, the organisers plan to open your eyes to the diverse range of opportunities that exist in the region. To ensure maximum exhibitor

Classic cars, games and refreshments

involvement, the day will also include a vote for the most dynamic stand.

Onsite catering reservations can be made at 05 62 66 12 22.

Awe-inspiring performances

The Local Buzz •September & October 2018

19

GERS

Hear that echo?

There will be two free organ recitals in Saint Peter’s Cathedral at Condom at 18:00 on 4 and 11 September.

This medieval church offers perfect acoustics in which to appreciate this magnificent instrument. The present day organ dates back to 1836. Restored in 1979, the instrument now incorporates a grand organ complete with 3 manual claviers, pedal, 27 stops, 27 ranks, mechanical key and stop action and echo. The purpose of the echo is, as the name suggests, to provide an orchestral style reverberation.

GEE UP With free entry for mothers with children, L’Hippodrome en Fête on 9 September at Ribére (Auch) is designed to be a family day out at the race course. For children, the activities include pony rides, clowns, face painting, entertainment, games and a raffle. For adults and those who like a flutter, a two-day trotting event is also taking place on 9 and 10 September.

Refreshments and a full resBe whoever you want to be for the day

20

HOLD THAT POSE

The female form is the taurant are available on site.

For other racing events, including the season’s biggest horse race on the flat on 21 October, visit www.lescourseshippiquesregionalessudouest.com/animations

TALKING PLATES Sometimes used as a tool to spread propaganda whilst avoiding censorship, decorated plates of the past were far more than, well, decorative. They told a story of the time, sent messages, sparked controversy and depicted subjects as wide ranging as hunting, history, sport, religion, fashion, and even the latest songs. Mostly used as dessert plates, they came about as a result of a new printing process in the 19th-century and soon became popular in France.

Depicting French urban and rural society as well as proverbs and rebus puzzles, a collection of Les Assiettes Humoristiques Anciennes can be seen at the Musée Paysan d’Emile in Simorre. www.museepaysan.fr

subject of a number of sculptures by Henri Capin on display at Le Continental, Condom until 1 October. As an homage to femininity, the subject has been a source of timeless inspiration and, as a result, the works show the movement, grace and mystery associated with its beauty. Sometimes joyful, sometimes funny, his sculptures are always true to his vision, preserving a balance between artistic poses and anatomical fact.

05 62 68 45 76

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

TARN ET GARONNE

what’s the

DON’T GET IN A LATHER

BUZZ

Beep beep, Yeah!

Classic cars, vehicles of distinction and collectors’ motorbikes will be gathering in Lapenche village centre on 23 September from 10:00 to 19:00. In addition to the

sound of engines and the contours of the bodywork, classics enthusiasts can visit the trade fair and browse the vide grenier for vehicle parts and accessories.

Run from the Dead!

Now this is a bit different! A

the maze and the (probably

night race taking you through

scary) woods beat you? Are

60 minutes of hell. We are

you feeling brave enough

not talking just running

and, if you are, which fright-

here – we are talking having

ening costume and make-up

to survive lots of terrifying

will you be wearing? For

zombies with just a series of

the scaredy cats, you can

clues and a flashlight to help

also run in groups of up to

you. Can you dare to run

5. Find out more at http://

amongst the living dead, will

www.runfromthedead.com/

you come out alive or will

zombies-valence.html

22

There is also a trade fair and refreshments on site.

To take part in the motorbike rally, show your car or simply for more details contact 0609 30 04 14

Yee Ha!

A weekend of free country music and dancing awaits you at the Nohic Festival on 8 and 9 September. Stepping up at 11:00, the dancing starts with two groups, a playlist and lessons led by Alain “The Boss”.

Alongside exhibitions, an equestrian show and side shows, there will be the chance to look at American cars, trucks and motorcycles. Oh yes and there will even be an election: to crown Miss and Mister Country. Ideal for young and old alike, there is something for everyone and refreshments are available on site. Take your partner by the hand…

For details: 0611 65 96 54

Learn how to make artisan soap in this one-day workshop by Airmeith Savonnerie at Caylus. Using the ancient secret technique of cold saponification (soap making), the course is available in English and French and includes all raw materials, detailed documentation and recipes. Open to adults only, with a maximum of three people per group, the anticipated production over the day is 600kg. That’s a lot of bubbles! As well as a bar of soap or two, you will leave with all the knowledge you need to carry on making your own fabulous soaps at home. The course is from 10:00 to 16:30 on 15 September and costs €79 per person. www. airmeithsavonnerie. fr. Take a look at our page on soaps in this issue too – you will be amazed at the healing and calming effects that certain ingredients can have on us.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

POINTS OF VIEW Over the next two months the work of altogether 9 contemporary artists will be shown at the Espace Points de Vue, Lauzerte, including sculptures, paintings, photography and ceramics. The exhibits will change on 1 October. www.artpointsdevue.com

Things not adding up?

If you can think what 1994, 76, 89 and 666,666 are in French and you like folding paper, then this festival could be for you! The15th Festival of Mathematics is being held in Beaumont de Lomagne on 7 October. In honour of the celebrated mathematician, Pierre Fermat who was born in the village, the day provides a fun look at maths with workshops, origami lessons, maths quizzes and games, logic puzzles and even a bit of magic. There is also a children’s corner for those over 3 years of age as well as various demonstrations, shows and exhibits. Open from 10:00 to 19:00, this free event also includes a conference at 14:30.

0563 26 52 30

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

The Landes bagpipes and electric guitars feature centre stage at the Nadau Concert from 21:00 on 12 October at Espace Bonais in Caussade. Having performed four times at Olympia as well as the Zenith theatre, the members of Nadau are no strangers to the stage and promise an interesting, evocative evening of Occitane and Gascon culture. Traditional songs combine with humour, tender moments and even poetry at this sometimes cheeky musical extravaganza. In two languages and in a two-hour performance, you will experience the wonder of Occitan music

TARN ET GARONNE

A HEADY MIX

by these extraordinary musicians with 13 albums to their credit and over 60,000 CDs sold. www.nadau.com

MAY I HAVE THIS DANCE? You can mark your card for this Tea Dance with the Jean-Paul Orchestra at the Salle Bonnaise at Caussade on 2 October. Featuring the accordion and tunes from the 1960’s to mid1990, this nostalgic event reflects the days when important events were celebrated in dance throughout society.

Dancers can take to the floor from 14:30, with the last dance at 19:00.

For more info go to www.hosselet-jean-paul.e-monsite.com

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There is a lot happening in Toulouse over these two months and this one is for the garden lovers amongst us. On show as part of the European Heritage Days initiative, this Zen garden reflects the landscapes, ancient traditions and history of the Land of the Rising Sun. Bringing a real breath of fresh air to the heart of the city centre, this special visit to the Japanese garden takes place on 15 September between 10:30 and 12:30. Enjoy the exotic plants, meditate, relax or take tea in the pavilion.

0892 18 01 80

N. HAUTE GARONNE

TOULOUZEN

what’s the

BUZZ BACK TO NATURE

With nature as its theme, the first Trail du Marguestaud sets off from Galembrun near Launac on 23 September. Taking in 85% paths and trails, the varied courses are designed to suit runners as well as hikers and Nordic walkers. Ideal for nature lovers, they also include a refreshing pit-stop at the 8km mark as well as at the finish line. The 12km run starts at 10:00 and the 19km course at 10:30. Hikers and Nordic walkers have their own start time of 10:35 for their 12km route. www.chrono-start.com

Tintin Parks Up Tintin et Ses Avions has flown into the Musée Aeroscopia at Toulouse-Blagnac. As a natural fit in this world of aerospace, Hergé’s Adventures of Tintin often sees the young boy travelling by air, sometimes even piloting himself. This tailor-made exhibition about this famous character and his aeroplanes leads the visitor through his journey via a collection of story boards. Depicting the discovery of one of the most famous comics on the planet, the boards also reflect Herge’s personal love of aviation. Incredibly, a copy of Tintin’s Adventures is said to be sold every twenty seconds around the world. www.musee-aeroscopia.fr

RUNNING SHOES AT THE READY The 12th Toulouse International Marathon is all set to run on 21 October, over a course that takes in many of the famous red-brick buildings in the city, such as the Cathédrale de Saint-Etienne, as well as popular spots like the La Cité de l’Espace and

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

the Canal du Midi. With an anticipated line up of 16,000 runners, the event is hoping to be bigger and better than last year. In addition to the standard individual marathon of 40km, runners and wheelchair participants can opt to compete in a semi-mar-

athon, a 10km race, or as relay teams of four covering 10km each. A complete village is being built to house the many attractions which include music, dancing, giant screens, refreshments and much more. www.marathon-toulousemetropole.fr/

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N. HAUTE GARONNE

what’s the

GRAFFITI WORKS

BUZZ

Virtually one of the best tours in the Haute Garonne

At the Lighthouse

A night of exceptional jazz is promised at Le Phare in Tournefeuille on 27 September as part of the celebrations during a French-German fortnight. The German Wasserfuhr brothers are opening the show with trumpeter Julian and pianist Roman displaying why they

have had no less than five album successes. Their latest, Landed in Brooklyn was inspired by David Bowie and saw them achieve great success working with key musicians, including the saxophonist and bass player from the last Bowie group.

Next up, the local Lorenzo

Will Brad and Janet never learn? They really shouldn’t go knocking on doors at scary looking houses in the middle of the night! Frank N’Furter and cast are in Pibrac on 25 and 26 October and are looking forward to doing the Time Warp with you from 21:00 to 23:55 at the Theatre Musical. Go in costume if you dare!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a world renowned parody of science fiction

and B-grade horror films and, if you haven’t already been, you could probably benefit from taking a peak at the audience participation lines beforehand. The cinema may be selling props too. Most importantly, have fun and, oh yes, learn how to do the Time Warp: www.wikihow. com/Do-the-Time-Warp (maybe miss out number 8!) Let’s do the time warp again! www.tmp-pibrac.com

Time Warp

26

Naccarato Trio continues to receive an enthusiastic welcome. With a second album out this month (September) and tours in India and China behind them, they will be performing on piano, bass and drums in their own cinematic jazz style. http:// lephare-tournefeuille.com/

Vibrant colours literally fill the streets in this street art exhibition.

The Graff Tour brings together a series of incredible art on buildings and walls. The two-hour guided visit by the Toulouse Tourist Office and a graffiti artist is designed to give an insight into the different artists and styles. Setting off from the place des Tiercettes on 19 September, the cost is €15 and the number of places is limited. Visitors can take the tour on foot or by bus between 15:00 and 17:00 and reservations are required.

Be sure to take your camera to capture the awe-inspiring presence of these 3D, larger than life illustrations and paintings. www.toulouse-tourisme.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

NEWS

NOTEW

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

A few news snippets of interest to our region

Goût de France

Look out for the nationwide Fête de la Gastronomie on 21 to 23 September, an event designed to promote all that’s good in French cuisine. Depending on the location, this might involve tastings at markets, food themed events, tours of breweries and wine cellars, or gourmet meals at reduced prices. Sadly, at the time of going to press we could not locate a definitive list so watch out for the logo.

Brexit worries La Place du Capitol, Toulouse

Free Entry All Day European Heritage Day on 16 September is the day when every Monument Historique in France opens its doors free to the general public, giving everyone the chance to visit, or revisit, the monuments and buildings that form the structure of French history.

For ideas, take a look at some of the buildings listed in our Area Information pages at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/ area-info

Toulouse Airport

If you have any concerns about your right to stay here in France or to receive your pension, etc., after Brexit, you need to read this. The British Embassy has included a Top 10 Questions from British Expats in France in their recent Voisins Voices newsletter

and it covers these topics and more. It gives clear, definitive answers to many of the most worrisome questions. https://assets.publishing. service.gov.uk/government/ uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/722600/ Top10Questions.pdf

Stop Lugging Fed up of lugging luggage? Toulouse Airport has launched a baggage transfer service which takes care of your luggage to/ from the airport. A porter picks up the baggage at your home or hotel, stores them for however long is necessary and then takes them to the terminal (or vice versa). For more info: www.toulouse.aeroport.fr/passagers/boutiques-services/transfert-de-bagages

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

27

The Vines It’s hot, it’s back breaking and it’s exhausting so why do thousands of people rush to help at the Vendange every year?

It may be part of a long standing French tradition but there is something very special about harvesting grapes that brings people together. Perhaps it’s the romance associated with the history of “les vins”.

best grapes Hand picking selects the

28

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

are Calling T

he soil and the vines, the camaraderie, both during the arduous day and the glasses of wine and a meal at night, the sense of working and, often, sleeping together to achieve a single goal.

Starting with rich, full vines and bringing them in as part of a team over a fairly short period is more than satisfying, it is an incredible achievement. What’s more, it’s one that is greatly appreciated, not just by the winemaker but by everyone who buys that wine in the future.

The local mayor presses the green button for the Vendange to begin around one hundred days after the first flower has blossomed on the vines. Exactly when depends on the instincts of the wine-growers, how the weather has been and how the grapes are looking and tasting. This is a complicated task involving an assessment of the amount of sugar and acidity in the grape as well as the colour of the skin and pips, the taste of the grape and the level of tannin.

Generally speaking, cold winters allow the vine to hibernate and maintain its strength ready for the following year. A long, warm summer with some rain will allow the fruit to ripen slowly and evenly and, if followed by a dry autumn, will make ideal harvesting conditions. Rain before harvest can throw the balance

OUT + ABOUT

between sugar and acidity right off and too much rain could lead to mildew and rotting vines.

picking through for rotten or dried out grapes is needed once the grapes reach the co-op or winery.

Depending on the lay of the land and the type of grape, harvesting is done by hand or machine. On steep slopes, for the smaller vineyards and for the most discerning winemaker, hand picking is the preferred method. For wines such as Monbazillac, the Muscadelle and Sauvignon grapes have to be hand selected to ensure that only those grapes affected by the Botrytis Cinerea fungus, the so called “noble rot”, are harvested. Going back to its discovery by Benedictine monks in a priory in Bergerac in 1080, noble rot lies at the heart of all great sweet whites. Without going into too much detail, the rot ensures a more intense, more concentrated grape by removing water and leaving a higher percentage of sugars, fruit acids and minerals behind.

For red grapes this decision is often made depending on their colour. The richer and darker the grape, the riper it is.

There are a number of different tasks to be accomplished in the vendange and everyone works as a team, adding to the excitement of the task in hand. With secateurs at the ready and a box at their feet, the coupeurs set about selecting grapes and cutting them. Porteurs pass by and the boxes are emptied into a large sack on their backs, capable of holding many kilos, a simple but physically tiring task requiring strength and endurance.

To put this into perspective, it will usually take 600-800 grapes, or around 10 bunches, to make a single bottle of wine so you can imagine how many are being picked and transported.

Hand, rather than machine picking, means that only the best grapes are cut and pickers often go through the same vineyard several times, making sure that the grapes are ripened to perfection.

The fruits also tend to be less damaged than when machines are used and less

...a hard but fun task

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

From there the grapes are tipped into lorries and taken to their next destination for processing and, at this stage, it is not unusual to see road signs warning of the perils of slippery grape juice!

For anyone interested in joining a vendange team, just visit your local vineyard but, whatever you do, please drink responsibly.

Like the

Fre

nfort”

, le réco

s l’effort

“Aprè nch say:

29

JUST KITCHENS www.justkitchens.fr

364

Michael Staines began installing kitchens in the UK in 1990. He opened his first showroom in Mielan, France in 2008 and in 2013, a second showroom in Marciac.

With many years of experience, Mike and his son, Tim, can offer you a complete design and installation service, taking your initial ideas through to the reality of a beautiful and functional fitted kitchen.

Interested in hearing more about our kitchens and services?

OPENING HOURS:

TWO LOCATIONS:

Wednesdays at Marciac 9.00am to 12.30pm 2.00pm to 5.30pm

4 Place Jean Senac 32170, MIELAN, France OR 3 Place Hotel de Ville, 32230, MARCIAC, France

Thursdays at Mielan 9.00am to 12.30pm Saturdays at Marciac 9.00am to 12.30pm

You are welcome to visit by appointment at other times. If you have any questions at all, or just want to chat about kitchens, please call or send an email...

Tel: 05 62 58 03 64

Email: justkitchens.fr@gmail.com

QUALIT Y WINES OF DORDO GNE -

www.vins-bergeracduras.fr

Discover les vins de Bergerac & Duras

pool

ADVICE

Some do, some don’t - but should we?

We asked a pool technician with 25 years of experience to explain the benefits.

B Y RUD OLF D E LANG, P O OL TECHNIC IAN F O R 2 5 Y EA RS AND SP ECIA LIS ING IN E LECTRONIC L E AK DETECTION.

Winterising your

ool Winterising is the process for reducing the chlorination and filtration in your swimming pool over the winter when it is not used as frequently. Winterisation can save energy and, therefore, save you money on electricity bills, whilst also ensuring that your pool is ready for swimming when the weather turns warm again.

P

in Winter. In doing so they are most likely causing an expensive green pool cleanup in Spring. In addition to the possible effects on the pool’s longevity, pool equipment that has been left off for months can often break down when started again and potentially need repairing and/or replacing at the beginning of the swimming season.

If chlorination and filtration is reduced and the water balance is not managed there is the risk of green algae blooms, blackspot and mustard algae. For this reason it is essential that the pool water is balanced throughout winter and not simply forgotten about and allowed to turn green. Without winterising the water, it can be detrimental to the pool surface and equipment, reducing both their life expectancies.

Indeed, many pool owners have the misconception that they can simply switch off their pool equipment

1. Don’t simply turn the filter off and forget the pool for months. This is a false economy because the time, effort and money needed to get the pool water correctly adjusted next season, will be far more than the little resources required to maintain it during winter.

2. Balance your pool water correctly.

3. Take your pool cleaner out of the pool.

4. Clean your pool filter/s.

5. If you have a sand filter, simply backwash and rinse it and add a good pool clarifier.

6. If you have a cartridge filter, remove the filter

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

element and clean it. Note: filter cartridges should be de-greased.

7. Place the filter in position and turn the system on.

8. Get a good winteriser and disperse it around the pool.

Run the system for 24 hours and then auto times (eg: 6 hours per day) for one week.

9. Backwash or clean cartridge after 1 week.

10. Re-test your water and then continue to inspect and test the pool water every 2 weeks in winter.

H

aving carried out these procedures it should only be necessary to check the chlorine level every 2 weeks, and empty the skimmer basket if it has a build-up of leaves, etc. These simple tasks will ensure that your pool does not go green and will be ready for the first warm days of Spring and Summer.

Also, if you have a salt system, use chlorine, because most salt systems do not work under 15°C. me47@live.fr 07 68 77 21 33

31

Z7OFWONDERS THE REGION In this issue we take a look at some of the intriguing sights that can be found in villages and towns within our seven departments. There is so much to explore.

AUTOIRE

SAINT-LÉON-SUR-VÉZÈRE AUVILLAR

A

UTOIRE is a fast flowing stream that gives its name to this delightful spot in the Lot. Whilst the village is not very big, it is extremely beautiful with a central square and fountain, a 15th century manor house with turrets and a pretty church. Square pigeon lofts, brown tiled roofs and decorative stone windows are just some of the unusual features.

Situated on the limestone plateau between Gramat and Figeac, it also has a fantastic 30m high waterfall that drops into a pretty pond. From here you can walk to the ruins of the 12th-century Chateau des Anglais for an amazing view over the village.

SAINT-LÉON-SUR-VÉZÈRE was

32

once a busy river port and, as such, was watched over by three castles, the 14th-century Manoir de la Salle, 16th-century Chateau de Clérans and the 14 to 17th-century Chateau de Chabans. Today, this charming medieval village in the Dordogne combines white stoned buildings with overhanging roofs and narrow lanes. Walk along the river, eat in the centre, or shop. Whilst there, take in the 12th-century Romanesque church and/or the prehistoric park complete with dinosaurs, a cave dwellers site and a fossil museum.

As the first of the Gascon Bastides, MONTRÉAL in Gers was built in the mid-13th-century on a rocky ridge near the

River Auzoue. As is typical with many Bastides, the streets form a grid pattern leading to the central square with its arcades and colombage houses.

A partly fortified gothic church gives testimony to its battling past and the nearby 4th-century villa presents a fine example of multi-coloured Gallo-Roman mosaic. This is true Armagnac territory and if you haven’t tried Floc de Gascogne (an Armagnac based fortified

wine below) this is the place to do it, along with a slice of delicious croustade (apples marinated in Armagnac and encased in filo pastry).

Finding a circular corn exchange in France is a hard task. In fact, the only one in existence can be found atAUVILLAR in Tarn et Garonne. This monumental town is on the route to Santiago de Compostela and is loved The delicious fortified wine Floc de Gascogne

MONTRÉAL

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

OUT + ABOUT

HOURTIN

GRENADE

Z

CASTELJALOUX

by pilgrims and artists alike.

With no less than three art galleries celebrating paintings, sculptures and the “Bleu Reglisse” bronze and resin works of Toutain, the village also has a specialist candle shop.

Restaurants and cafés allow you to take in the atmosphere of this quaint village before, perhaps, a guided tour or a visit to the museum which houses an incredible collection of earthenware dating back to the 18th-century.

The quiet town of CASTELJALOUX in Lot et Garonne may not be high on the list of tourist spots. However, it does feature parts of the original defence battlements, a medieval convent and cloisters, and the

Maison du Roy, a fine house visited by both King Louis XII and XIV. King Henry IV once visited the castle that now lies in ruins in Parc d’Albret and, for the ultimate in rest and relaxation, there is the famous Les Bains de Casteljaloux.

Nearby, swimming, golf and restaurants are available at Lac de Clarens.

To the west, about half way up the Medoc peninsula, lies Gironde’s HOURTIN. HourtinVille with its church and large green central space sits by Lac d’Hourtin, the largest fresh water lake in France, and is home to a national nature reserve. About 12km away, and reachable by a dedicated cycling route, is the pretty

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

SO MANY BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES AND HISTORICAL SITES seaside resort of Hourtin-Plage and its white sandy beaches, dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.

Popular with surfers, there is a strong undercurrent, which is why many choose to swim in the lake instead. The Porte de Hourtin is the place for boating enthusiasts to moor up or just sit and listen to the clang of the odd halyard or two.

Just north of Toulouse, GRENADE in Haute Garonne was founded by the Cistercian monks in 1290. Today, it is a bustling metropolis with clear roots to its days as a major

Bastide with the grain trade at its heart. The 13th-century Halle de Grenade is one of the largest covered medieval halls in France and is where the grain traders would have met to sell their wares. Today, it is a historical monument like the Abbaye de Grandselve with its octagonal bell tower, elegant ogive vault and paintings by great Toulouse masters from the 17th and 18th-centuries.

For a panoramic view of the Bastide, take a trip to the top floor of the former convent, L’ancien Couvent des Ursulines.

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Hook, Line & Vintner Emma (chef) and John (sommelier) Gilchrist are passionate about food and drink and run Les Caulins, a gîte and cookery school in SW France.

This time they take a look at fish and wine.

S

eptember heralds the new season for Scallops (Coquille Saint Jacques), a fabulous shellfish. The market fish stalls offer seasonal produce from the river and ocean larder, and are often willing to scale and fillet for you, leaving little preparation at home. I enjoy cooking fresh fish. Simply grilled, baked, sautéed, deep fried and served with sauces and flavoured butters, the combinations are endless.

Scallops, Apple Black Pudding & Pea Purée 12 large Scallops, roe & side muscle removed Clove of garlic 10 Basil leaves Knob of butter Vegetable oil Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 x Apple Black Pudding (Boudin aux Pommes) cut into 12 slices 200g Frozen Peas 100g Crème Fraiche

Cod à la Bordelaise

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• Bring a pan of cold water and the garlic to the boil, add peas and salt. Cook until tender, drain and purée until smooth with the crème fraiche and basil. Add more crème fraiche if necessary, check the seasoning.

• Heat the oil in a large solid base sauté pan. Starting at

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FOOD + DRINK

The Entre Deux Mers appellation, the largest in the Bordeaux region, translates as “between two seas”, as it sits in the midst of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers.

Emma’s recipes feature these wines.

C

hateau Lestrille is a brilliantly constructed wine, youthful and crisp with a spark of honeysuckle, citrus and vanilla on the nose. Then beautifully fresh and minerally with flashes of white peach and mimosa on the palate and deservedly voted the best Entre Deux Mers at the annual tasting of the regions’ wine. 5.90€ lestrille.com

“12 o’clock” in the pan add the Boudin, a slice at a time, clockwise around the pan.

When you return to the first, turn all the slices over and then remove them one by one. Keep warm.

• Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Give the pan a wipe and add a splash of oil, heat until shimmering.

Add the butter. Using the same clock method, add the scallops. After 2 mins turn the scallops and cook for 2 mins.

• On four plates arrange three pools of purée, top with a slice of Boudin and then a scallop.

Cod à la Bordelaise Sauce Bordelaise traditionally uses dry red Bordeaux but I lighten the dish with a light dry white, giving tartness to the sauce and complementing the fish. Any chunky white

On the nose the lively lime notes of Chateau Haut Rian are balanced by a sweet fragrance of white flowers.

At first the Sauvignon is racy citrus, nicely balanced by the fatty, custardy feel brought by the Sémillon.

4.75€ chateauhautrian.com Chateau Chantelouve is a fruit packed wine. Sweet lime acacia and melon on the nose, a baked apple richness and a freshly picked green grape skin acidity from cold skin contact fermentation. A full flavoured wine with thirst quenching acidity and amazing with scallops. 4.20€ cha-

fish can be used.

4 Slices of Cod (preferably from the back of the cod) 150g Goat Cheese 100g Dry baguette torn into chunks 15g Fresh Basil 15g Fresh Parsley Zest of ½ Lemon 50g Unsalted butter 1 Clove of garlic peeled 250 ml Dry white wine 2 Shallots finely chopped 1 tsp Flour 1 tsp Unsalted butter Splash of oil Salt, pepper

• In a blender blitz the bread, parsley, basil, lemon and garlic into breadcrumbs, mix with the butter and goat cheese in a bowl. Place a sheet of greaseproof paper on a board, add the mixture and cover with another greaseproof

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

teau-chantelouve.com Chateau Saint-Marie has a subtle bouquet of yellow peach and mango and nice flavours of honeysuckle and spritzy pomelo fruit.

A sensibly barrel aged and classy wine. 5.50€ chateau-sainte-marie.com Chateau Turcaud has a leap out of the glass lime, lychee and floral orange blossom nose, crispy on the palate then lots of stoned fruit, white rose. Bright, crisp and refreshing, there is body and vibrant citrus in the finish and it is utterly quaffable. 7.00€ chateauturcaud.com

sheet. Spread with a rolling pin until 1/2 cm thick and refrigerate for 15 mins. Cut the mixture into 4 cod-sized pieces.

• Boil the wine in a saucepan, add the shallot. Add salt and reduce to a slow simmer for 5 mins. In a different saucepan melt the butter and mix it with one tsp flour (beurre manié). Stir gently to avoid any lumps. When the wine is reduced by 1/3, add the beurre manié and stir with a whisk until smooth and syrupy.

Remove from the heat.

• Place the cod in a buttered oven dish and sprinkle with salt, pepper and a little oil.

Bake in a 180°C (350°F) oven for around 5 mins. Top the fish with the breadcrumb pieces and bake for around 10 mins.

• Serve immediately with the sauce.

The Buzz Bio

E

mma and John have worked in the catering and hospitality industry for 30 years.

Emma began her cooking career at Midsummer House in Cambridge then honed her skills with spells in Italy, Switzerland, Barbados and London. Working with some great chefs in some of the best restaurants, Emma is passionate about seasonal, fresh food and has a gutsy approach to enhancing simple flavours.

John, a former UK Sommelier of the Year and winner of the Mondavi award for the best wine list in the world, met Emma at Midsummer House. John is bonkers about wine and an enthusiast for the little wine producers and is a seeker of unknown gems.

Prior to acquiring Les Caulins, Emma and John ran their own successful restaurant in Buckinghamshire. They have won many awards including the 50 best destination restaurants in the UK, Wine Pub of the year, British Cheeseboard of the Year and Buckingham’s Best Restaurant for eight years to name a few.

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FOOD + DRINK

Bee My Honey ste to all kinds of foods.

Honey adds a sweet, velvety ta Here are some ideas to make the most

of this delicious, natural ingredient.

Honeyed Magret

This is a bee-autiful way to cook a magret of duck.

Score the duck fat (not the meat) and place it skin side down in a dry skillet or frying pan over high heat for two minutes to release the fat. Turn the heat down to medium. After about five minutes, turn the duck over and leave to cook for another five minutes. If you like your duck well done, give it longer on both sides. We think this recipe is best when the skin has lost nearly all its fat and you are left with a layer of crispy skin, so you may like to cook the fat side a little more. Now for the special bit, drizzle with runny honey and serve.

Blue Honey Ciabatta For this you will need a couple of slices of ciabatta, olive oil, rocket and Roquefort or similar type blue cheese. Oil the ciabatta and grill on both sides (or you can toast it and rub olive oil in afterwards).

Top the bread with rocket, the crumbled cheese and drizzle with honey.

Squash Tarte Tatin

For this, think Halloween tarte tatin! Slice the squash, baste with olive oil and a

36

A delicious, seasonal Halloween dessert

pinch of salt. Bake in a single layer for 15 minutes until still firm but golden in colour.

Heat 2tbsp runny honey with 40g golden caster sugar and 1tbsp of water in a pan and stir until you have a caramel.

Add 40g butter, ½ tsp nutmeg, 2 tsp ground cinnamon and 2 tbsp of honey and cook until a dark caramel colour.

With care, pour this mixture into an ovenproof, circular tin. Add the sliced squash (this will be the top so try to make a neat pattern). Cover with either your own puff pastry or use the shop bought variety and tuck in the edges.

Cook at 180°C for 20 to 30 minutes. Turn out onto a plate and serve with cream or custard.

Porridge brunch

For an unusual touch, add honey and a splash of whisky to a bowl of porridge and serve with cream or ice cream.

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Real Ale British Style

364

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Visit the chocolate factory to discover our range of chocolates and prune specialties.

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Preparing for the

Cooler months Generally speaking, the hotter the summer, the

more vibrant the autumn display. It’s exciting to see the spectacular foliage, and the hidden gems emerge from the soil.

BY SUE SARGEANT, PASSIONATE GARDENER, NOVICE WRITER

F

or me the autumn months are a time for reflection and careful consideration about the future of the garden. I take stock of what has worked well, which plants have survived and thrived, and which plants are not looking forward to another year. I also look at which plants can be used to keep the garden looking fresh and colourful.

Late summer plants such as Asters and Anemones, and bulbs such as Nerines will take your garden into a beautiful autumn.

Repeat Flowering

If you have repeat flowering Roses and Dahlias and have dead headed them after flowering they will give you a lovely autumnal display. A perfect rose to plant is the Meilland rose La Sevillana. It flowers from spring to frost and makes a wonderful shrub or hedge. In the Sedum family, Autumn Glory is just that.

This is the most rewarding plant having sat patiently in

the garden, it now triumphs in a range of colours from pink to bronze leading up to Christmas when dry flower heads make a perfect decoration.

The group of plants known as Acres make a spectacular display, especially if they are grown in large pots that can be positioned in the garden or patio.

Bushes, Shrubs & Trees

The leaves of the Callicarpa turn red and violet, followed by stems of polished purple berries. More commonly known as Dogwood, Cornus shrubs are usually bought for

Perfect Compost Recipe THE LAYERING METHOD Depending on the size of the garden, you will need a compost bin, or a few pallets and breeze blocks to create an enclosed area. As a guide, 20 tonnes of compost will “feed” a 5700m² garden. For a top dressing mulch, leave to “cook” for six months. For soil conditioning, the compost should ferment for up to nine months.

Late flowering Anemones add a burst of colour.

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k Cut the grass and allow the cuttings to dry (too much wet grass can lead to smells). Do not include couch grass or tap root weeds. Place in the compost container. k Collect fallen autumnal leaves and add to the cuttings. k To this mixture, add various quantities of vegetable peelings

shredded cardboard, egg shells, coffee grains and tea bags (not general food waste). k Continue to add these ingredients and include twigs or straw to help with air circulation. k Try to keep the pile wet k Turn over with a pitchfork every now and then especially after rainfall.

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HOMES + GARDENS

My Top 10 Plants

FOR FRENCH GARDENS Cerinthe major Purpuracens – the bees just love them Autumn colour in the garden

the colour of their striking stems and the red stems of Sibirica or the golden stems of Flaviramea will add a touch of drama to your garden if planted in groups of five. The Rhus, or Sumach, is grown for its brilliant autumn crimson fruits and also looks good in a summer border, with its over-arching branches providing shade to the neighboring plants. No garden should be without the conical Liquidambar tree. The leaves give an admirable display of red, purple and gold. Give it space and you will not be disappointed.

Ornamental grasses give structure and are stylish if planted in groups for a natural prairie effect. Try edging your gravel garden with Stachys Byzantine ( Lambs ears) for a softer edge to the border. It establishes very quickly and holds the soil and gravel in place during those sudden cloud bursts.

Prune, Mulch, Water

As with any time of year, the garden needs to be looked after in the autumn too. Whilst they are still clearly visible before the leaves fall, I mark any branches which have not survived, making them much easier to identify when they need lopping later.

Mulching with compost will continue to suppress weeds, put nutrients into the soil, conserve moisture and keep the roots warm during cold spells. I always have at least three compost heaps on

the go to allow it to mature properly.

If you have a well with a pump you are very lucky.

Water butts are great but even they can run dry at times so choosing the right plants that are drought tolerant is something to consider. It is better to water really well in the evening or early morning, once or twice a week. A good soaking will encourage the roots to reach below ground rather than just under the surface where the ground dries out quickly. When it rains I also put as many containers outside as I can to catch the free water.

Next season

The best time to choose your trees and shrubs for next season is during October. The garden centers and nurseries will be well stocked to give plants a good few months to settle into the warm soil before winter.

When planting shrubs and perennials, I am mindful to plant everything much deeper than I did before I moved to France.

Keeping the roots well below the surface is much better in areas where there is likely to be low rainfall and hot temperatures. It can be hard to imagine just how hot it can be here when you can also experience cold, wet and windy winters. For me, the extremes of temperatures have been and still are the biggest challenge in the garden.

Sage Scaree – I found this plant on a trip to Provence thriving in dry, hot conditions Cosmos – a small variety known as ‘”Lemonade” works well with Sisyrinchium striatum

Zinnia – very long flowering season, many varieties to choose from and easy to sow in situ

Lavender – just hates wet feet but loves stony ground

Centranthus Ruber ‘Albas’ is the white variety of the pink Valerian that is often seen growing around rocks

Foxglove – will thrive in a shady corner but does like a little water Nicotiana Fragrant Cloud - gives off a wonderful perfume in the evening which attracts the hummingbird moth Echinacea – has the perfect shape flower for bees and isreally easy to grow from seed Rudbeckia- the leaves are quite hairy and, for this reason, conserve water

ward to sharing some of the jobs on my “must do” list in preparation for a new year in our garden in France.

Lamb ears

Sedum

Bees love the white Centranthus Ruber which flowers into the Autumn.

Callicarpa

Sumac

In the next issue I look for-

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

39

Don't stop the Workers Before you get your swatter out...

Autumn is an essential time of year for Honey bees. The Worker bees are out collecting nectar for long hours to ensure enough supplies to feed and maintain their colony through the winter months. That’s why you are going to see lots over the next few weeks, especially around asters, golden rod, chrysanthemums and Russian Labarthe B&B sage.

Winter Sustenance

The nectar and pollen they collect provide life-saving carbohydrates and proteins.

Beekeepers sometimes have to supplement the colonies in their hives with sugary substances during winter but solitary bees are left to their own devices. So please be sure to leave them bee.

Drone bees are a little larger than Honey bees and are unlikely to be seen at this time of year. They never collect food and their sole purpose is to mate with the Queen.

Golden brown to almost black in colour, Honey Bees are small and are often seen collecting pollen together or swarming on walls and between shutters and windows, basically anywhere that is warm and dry. If you don’t disturb them they will not harm you.

Bumblebees have more fur and are rounder and larger than a Honey bee. They have a number of different coloured stripes on the end of their tails. They are great and Gite pollinators so please leave their nests alone.

Solitary, wild bees will be seen emerging out of a wall or tiny holes in the ground.

Again, they are good pollinators and, because they pose no threat to humans or animals, should be left alone to collect as much food as they can.

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Bumblebees have more fur and are rounder and larger than a Honey bee.

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KAREN S BRAITHWAITE

We are pleased to announce the opening of our beautiful new interior shop in Allemans Du Dropt, selling Little Greene paint and wallpaper and Bluebellgray fabrics and soft furnishings.

We believe that it is important to choose the right colour so at La Belle Maison we offer free colour cards and samples to our clients.

Little Greene paint is one of the most environmentally friendly paints on the market today with a beautiful range of finishes for every application both interior and exterior.

Hotel, Restaurant and Spa

In the heart of the region and close to you.

All paint finishes come in the full range of Little Greene colours and we always keep a full stock so pop in and see us to get started on your next project.

Why not try our lunchtime ‘Menu du Marché’ (3 courses + coffee or wine) ?

Monday to Friday and enjoy an amazing view of the Tarn River – Only 20€

Don’t forget, every evening it’s our “happy hour” from 6 to 7pm: both for the price of one !

Le Moulin de Moissac - Hotel *** & SPA 1 Promenade Sancert - 82 200 Moissac Tel : + 33 5 63 32 88 88 - Fax : + 33 5 63 32 02 08 E-Mail: hotel@lemoulindemoissac.com www.lemoulindemoissac.com Website: www.La-Belle-Maison.com - Email: beverley@la-belle-maison.com Hotel & Spa le Moulin de Moissac

Address: 10 Avenue de Marmande, Allemans-du-Dropt, 47800 - Tel: 05 53 64 37 43

SPORT

Following on from the last article where we talked about choosing your bike and obtaining a good fit, here we are looking at your cycling apparel and accessories.

PART TWO

BY J ASE ALE XANDE R , EXPER IENCE D CLUB CYCLIST

LOOKING W

hatever your plans are in terms of leisure or serious biking you will definitely need a helmet, maybe a jersey and a rain jacket. If you are planning on tackling a few kilometres you will need to take things a little more seriously and take a close look at pedals, shoes and accessories.

Without going into too much detail, footwear and pedals are a whole new world. For now, you just have to decide if you want to be clipped in (securely attached to your pedals), or just have a normal flat pedal to build your confidence on your bike before making a move to the clipped in versions.

42

The big advantage to being clipped in is the increased power you can push down onto your bike. For me, once clipped in you will never go back to normal pedals but, again, this depends on what you want from your cycling.

Like saddles, shoes are a very personal item, your fitter will measure the length and width of your feet to find the best shoe for you. Again it’s good to try some different brands as a nice, comfortable shoe is priceless once you start on your longer rides.

If you just want to use the normal pedals you really do not need to worry about shoes, but if you have gone

full on with clipped-in shoes, practice unclipping your feet from the pedals a number of times before your first outing.

The last thing you want is to come to a junction or some traffic lights and not be able to take your feet off! I have fallen off my bike in front of a long line of traffic with people looking at me as if to say “why didn’t he just take his foot off the pedal”?

If this happens to you, just pick yourself up, don’t makeeye contact and ride off as if it’s the most normal thing to do in the world, then let the embarrassment subside in the knowledge that pretty much every cyclist in the world has done it!

Hydration is really important if you are heading out for a good ride, so a water bottle (bidon) that you can carry on your bike is essential.

Most frames have two bidon carriers, so treat yourself to a couple, they are normally no more than six euros each.

The next important bit of kit is a spare inner tube, a pump, and some tyre levers just in case you suffer a puncture.

You can put all of this in a small saddle bag that secures under your saddle, again your bike shop will have these, and if you have any worries about changing inner tubes, a quick visit to an online video site can give you all the help you need.

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TAKING A BREATHER

T

here are a multitude of organisations offering cycling holidays and cycling tours. Some take you to vineyards,

others to microbreweries, museums, a château or simply to see a local artisan at work.

If you don’t want the huffing and the puffing that might go with a traditional bicycle, you could rent or buy an electric bike and let that take the strain. You take your feet off the pedals and you just keep going! They are available in some really cool colours and can even be supplied with the ubiqui-

tous basket for picnics and shopping.

For more information and ideas, take a look at cycling or hotels, gïtes and holiday accommodation in the business directory pages at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

G THE PART As you become more efficient the more kit you will need. A professional bike shop will be able to help you make the right selection.

The only other advice I would give you before hitting the open roads or trails is to always have a phone with you, some emergency money and a bite to eat, cycling is hungry work and nutrition is really important to fuel your ride.

I never leave home without a banana or energy bar stuffed in my jersey pocket.

Taking to the open road Now you are ready to ride, in my opinion, you have chosen one of the best regions to cycle in France. It is no accident that the Tour de France has passed through twice in recent years. I can go out with my club on a weekend for a hundred kilometre ride and only see a handful of cars!

There is also every kind of terrain you could wish for. So if you are looking for a nice flat ride with a coffee stop it’s here, if you want a real training ride with some brutal climbs, it’s here.

If you do not want to take up cycling a little more seriously, joining a club is a fantastic way to improve your riding and, along the way, meet newpeople from your local community. Nearly every

small town has its own cycling club which can offer club rides for any standard, right up to racing across the region.

with plenty of opportunities to stop for a spot of lunch or even a bed and breakfast along the way.

One great ride for scenery is the Canal de Garonne. You can ride from the beautiful city of Bordeaux along cycle paths through vineyards to Sauveterre-de-Guyenne, then ride some quiet roads to join the Canal Du Midi. It is possible to ride along thecanal almost all the way to Toulouse,

Oh yes, and one final thing, take a map! Even if you are following one of the many cycling routes available, you might want to make a detour and, if you do, you will be sure to need that map to find your way home.

Have fun, be safe and enjoy!

www.francevelotourisme.com is the ideal site to find your cycling route. It includes the Lot Valley Cycle Route, Canal des Deux Mers, EV3 – des Pelerins and more. Of course, you don’t have to do the whole route if you don’t want to. www.freewheelingfrance.com includes a handy list of English /French cycling terms with everything from a cog and frame to a spoke. For some ideas for places to visit why not take a look at the Area Information pages on our own website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com.

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

43

THE SHORT GAME

PART TWO

In this second part of his article on golf, John pitches in with different aspects of the game.

John Cook is Managing Director of mygolfclub.org.uk one of the largest golf memberships in the world.

• Level 5 & European tour coach • Past English Amateur Champion • Past European Tour Player • Past England under 18 National Coach • Past Thailand National Coach

This includes putting, chipping, pitching, bunker shots and lob shots.

Putting has always been and will always be the most important shot in the game, if you putt well it helps your score and helps you psychologically.

Nobody ever won a tournament without their short game being in good shape.

RULES There are so many rules to the game of golf, all made up by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A). I doubt that anyone can remember all the rules without looking them up in the Rules of Golf book. Whilst getting to know some of the basic

rules is a good idea, it makes sense for all golfers to carry one of these books in their golf bag, they are free and are available at all golf clubs.

ETIQUETTE At the back of the rules book is a special section on the etiquette of golf, things about slow play and what do you do if you hit a ball that is going towards another golfer or spectator.

Slow play Nobody likes playing behind a slow player so if you are keeping up with the group ahead of you, that is the best you can do. If, however, there is nobody playing directly in front of you and the players

Golf for everyone

BY JO H N C O O K

44

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

SPORT behind are playing faster than you, just stand to the side and wave them through. It makes for a much more enjoyable round for both you and them.

Shout FORE! If you hit a ball that you think could possibly hit someone, you must shout FORE! A golf ball striking a person can cause a bad injury. Equally, if you hear someone else shout FORE a ball may be heading in your direction so crouch and cover your head, do not look up in the air to see if you can see the ball, it might just hit you in the face!

Divots A ball that is struck correctly with an iron should take a

divot just after impact with the ball, this creates back spin. If the ground is struck before contact with the ball, this creates a duff shot. Both shots take a divot of grass out of the ground and this divot must be replaced, helping to maintain the condition of the course.

A WORD ABOUT GOLF BUGGIES You either like golf buggies or you don’t. Some people like to just ride around the course, others like the exercise of walking the 5 or 6 miles round. I have seen people arrive at the course in their car, they may have driven a long way and then they get into their golf buggy, leave their

brains somewhere else and drive into another buggy or a tree or a fence, amazing!

pop up and surprise you time after time.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

THE MOST ASKED QUESTION?

If you ever think you have the secret to golf you are about to get into deep trouble. In actual fact you never get to know the game inside out and the best way to go through your golfing life is to never stop learning.

I played on both the European and African tours and I never played a round of golf where I did not learn something. Equally, I have now been coaching golf for over 30 years and never give a lesson without learning something.

It’s one of those games with so many variables that things

As a golf coach the most asked question I hear is “How do I take my game from the range to the course?” My answer is to learn the game more on the course, do not spend too much time on the range. Get out on the course, play with someone who is better than you and learn from them. Thanks to the handicap system, you don’t have to worry about them being significantly better than you.

Grab yourself a free rule book

Golf not for you?

You don’t have to be a “golf widow” or “widower”. There are lots of other things to do at a golf course. Restaurants, bars and sometimes even a mini-golf or putting practice course are usually on offer.

Set in beautiful countryside and with that fabulous air of serenity that accompanies the “pop” as a ball is hit is tremendously relaxing in itself. Then there is the stress-busting massage or the beauty and health treatments in the spa, a swim in the pool, or a visit to the well-stocked and welcoming pro-shop to buy your nearest and dearest a new glove or a set of balls.

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

45

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PROPERTY

What’s the buzz in your local

property market?

BY TREVOR LEGGETT CHAIRMAN OF LEGGETT IMMOBILIER WWW.LEGGETTFRANCE.COM

We asked Trevor Leggett to tell us what was happening with the property market in our region. What he had to say was enlightening.

“

Let’s take a look at the seven departments covered by The Local Buzz and break it down into (i) overall market conditions and prices and (ii) demand from international buyers.

Firstly, just a quick word on the general economy and the national market. The Notaires de France tell us that there were 965,000 sales in the last 12 months and it’s clear that the market is the healthiest it has been for years. Low interest rates and tax incentives sit on top of a market that had been in the doldrums since the Crise Financiere hit in 2008 – the French obviously feel that now is the time to buy and house prices are rising nationally.

Of course, national figures should be taken with a pinch of salt. You can’t reasonably compare an apartment in central Paris to a country house in rural Dordogne. So, let’s look at the departments individually (the prices below are taken from SeLoger research).

GIRONDE (33)

The average property price

in Bordeaux is 3,822 €/m2 (3,139 €/m2 in 2017) and the demand seems to be insatiable. Properties in the city centre are snapped up as soon as they come on the market and finding student accommodation is one of the most difficult jobs on the planet.

The Gironde accounts for 15% of all international buyers in Aquitaine.

LOT ET GARONNE (47)

Agen, the capital, has an average property price of 1,298 €/m2 (1,236 €/m2) so has seen a slight increase in price over the last 12 months. The department accounts for 15% of all international buyers in the region, many attracted by the strategic location midway between the two powerhouses of Bordeaux and Toulouse.

DORDOGNE (24)

This department is still the mainstay of British TV shows about life in France. The average property price in Perigueux is 1,485 €/m2 (1,419 €/m2) with prices having risen slightly in the last year.

Unsurprisingly, the Dordogne accounts for 45% of all sales

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

to international buyers in the region, with those from the UK and Belgium leading the way.

the department accounts for 13% of overseas buyers in the region.

GERS (32)

Cahors, like Auch, has bucked the trend and seen falling prices over the last 12 months, 1,429 €/m2 (1,627 €/ m2). We predict that this will change and that both the Lot and Gers will see prices rise in 2018. This department is particularly popular with overseas buyers and accounts for nearly a quarter of all sales in the region.

When looking at the market for international buyers it’s interesting that sales have gone up in both Aquitaine (by a whopping 12%) and Midi Pyrenees (by 8%). These are far higher than the national figure and are a clear indicator that the climate, landscape and culture of SW France are second to none.

The future is rosy too – Leggett has experienced record sales in the region and our call centre team have never been busier, with 13,000 enquiries coming in last month alone.

Interestingly, according to SeLoger, Auch is one of the few places that has seen a drop in price over the last 12 months, with an average price of 1,367 €/m2 (1,518 €/m2). Again, please don’t read too much into this as it’s a huge department. Indeed the Gers is the second most popular department in the Midi Pyrenees for overseas buyers.

TARN ET GARONNE (82)

Prices in Montauban have increased in the last year, with an average of 1,561 €/m2 (1,473 €/m2). This beautiful department is also popular with international buyers accounting for 11% of all sales in the region.

HAUTE GARONNE (31)

Toulouse is one of the most vibrant and successful cities in France. It is similar to Bordeaux in that prices have soared and demand outstrips supply. The average price is 2,864 €/m2 (2,524 €/m2) and

LOT (46)

47

FRENCH LESSON

Buzz Words...

Our French language student Béa, has prepared some useful words and phrases relevant to the features in this issue. On-y-va!

Luggage

I/we have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 suitcases J’ai/nous avons une, deux,

Hi, I’m Béa!

Learn French with me!

(You pronounce my name Bey-ya.)

trois, quatre, cinq, six valises I am alone/There are 2, 3 of us etc.

Je suis seul(e)/Nous sommes deux, trois etc.

Can you please collect my luggage from my home/my hotel/the airport Pouvez-vous s’il vous plaît récupérer mes bagages chez moi/à mon hotel/à l’aéroport I am going to Bordeaux/Toulouse/Bergerac airport at Je vais à l’aéroport de Bordeaux/Toulouse/Bergerac à I am arriving at Bordeaux/ Toulouse/Bergerac airport at J’arrive à l’aéroport de Bordeaux/Toulouse/Bergerac à Time/Heure 2:15, deux heures quinze, 2:30 deux heures trente, 2:45, trois heures quarante cinq un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq, six, sept, huit, neuf, dix, onze, douze, treize, quatorze, quinze, seize, dix-sept, dix-huit, dix-neuf, vingt, vingt et un, vingtdeux, vingt-trois heures, minuit

Well being

I would like a.....soap/soap bomb Je voudrais un.....savon/ bombe de bain

I prefer a silver/gold finish Je préfère une finition plaqué argent/or

Cycling

I have no experience of cycling.

Je n’y connais rien au cyclisme

I would like to book a facial, body treatment, hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, massage, hydrotherapy session Je voudrais réserver un soin du corps, hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, massage, séance d’hydrothérapie

I need cycling shoes J’ai besoin de chaussures de cyclisme I need to buy a spare inner tyre and tyre levers J’ai besoin d’acheter un pneu de rechange et des leviers de pneu

Do you have separate sessions for males and females?

Avez-vous des séances séparées pour les hommes et les femmes?

Pools

Do you have a bicycle pump please?

Avez-vous une pompe à vélo s’il vous plaît ?

I would like you to prepare my pool for winter Je voudrais que vous prépariez ma piscine pour l’hiver I need a clarifier for my pool J’ai besoin d’un clarifiant pour ma piscine I would like to buy a pool cover Je voudrais acheter une couverture de piscine My pool has gone green, what do I do?

Ma piscine est devenue verte, que dois-je faire?

Jewellery

Necklace/earrings/bracelet/ ring/brooch Collier/boucles d’oreilles/ bracelet/bague/broche I like large/small jewellery

48

J’aime les gros/petits bijoux

Mint, jasmine, lilac, pine, lavender, chamomile, citrus fruits, rosewood, charcoal, tee tree oil, rosemary, apples, cinnamon Menthe, jasmin, lilas, pin, lavande, camomille, agrumes, rosewood, charbon, huile de tee tree, romarin, pommes, canelle

Golf

Do you have event/wedding facilities?

Avez-vous des salles de réception ?

Can I book lessons with the Pro please?

Puis-je réserver des cours avec le pro s’il vous plaît?

Do you have a rules book in English please?

Avez-vous le règlement en anglais s’il vous plaît ?

General

I am looking for the police station Je cherche le commissariat (gendarmerie) I am looking for a petrol station Je recherche une station essence

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

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Registering your business in France.

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Health & Benefits Services.

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Chamber of Commerce and other official business.

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www.french-insurance.com Agence Eaton 00 33 (0) 2 97 40 80 20

BILINGUAL FRENCH INSURER PROPERTY, AUTO, MEDICAL, TRAVEL, LIFE, PET, BUSINESS…

LEGGETT

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST

Thinking of buying or selling?

OUR PICK OF THE BEST BARGAIN PROPERTY

Contact Leggett Immobilier, winner of ‘Best real estate agency in France’ five years running.

UNDER 60K

LOT ET GARONNE €158,050 Ref: 91489 3 bed / 2 bath village property 10kms from the town of Duras. Stunning period features.

LOT €125,350 Ref: 59364 Spacious 3 bed / 2 bath house full of original features.

Office, garden and garage.

TARN ET GARONNE €320,000 Ref: 91715 Renovated stone farmhouse with stunning views, garden and swimming pool.

DORDOGNE €50,900 Ref: 87845 Village house with garden of 600m², situated near Cubjac in Périgord.

Agency fees to be paid by the seller DPE: N/A

9% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: E

Agency fees to be paid by the seller DPE: A

13% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

LOT ET GARONNE €360,000 Ref: 90638 17thC stone maison de maître, swimming pool and barn on the banks of the river Lot

GERS €233,200 Ref: 91199 Charming Gascon house ready to move in. Garden with views on the Pyrenées.

HAUTE GARONNE €369,000 Ref: 87299 Lovely six bed farmhouse, with stable for 10 horses, outbuildings, big pond, on 24 ha.

DORDOGNE €19,000 Ref: 89713 Great hamlet house to renovate, with attached outbuilding and land.

Agency fees to be paid by the seller DPE: D

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: D

Agency fees to be paid by the seller DPE: N/A

36% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

DORDOGNE €194,400 Ref: 90742 Renovated stonebuilt farmhouse in a quiet setting with views. Close to all amenities.

DORDOGNE €197,950 Ref: 91481 Charming character house with barn, lovely views and garden of 2 acres.

GERS €267,500 Ref: 91556 Stone 4-bedroom home with outbuildings and 1ha land close to amenities.

LOT ET GARONNE €56,000 Ref: 81596 Building plot of 1422m² with 140m² barn to convert.

8% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

7 % TTC to be paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

7 % TTC to be paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

Agency fees to be paid by the seller DPE: N/A

Starting a new life in France?

Want a new career?

Leggett are always looking to recruit new sales agents, so if you are looking for a job in France, drop us a line. 00 800 2534 4388 recruitment@leggett.fr

www.leggettfrance.com info@leggett.fr +33 05 53 60 84 88

LOT €45,900 Ref: 79957 Fantastic renovation project: spacious old stone barn in a quiet hamlet.

15% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

It’s all about

you

52

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

WELL BEING

Years ago a day at the spa probably involved a facial, a sauna and a plunge into a cold pool in an atmosphere that combined clinical cleanliness with elitist undertones. Now, spas are welcoming to all, the young and not-so young, male and female.

Origins

The power of mineral water to heal, particularly for iron deficiencies, arthritis and rheumatism, can be traced back to prehistoric times and, in evidence, archaeologists have actually discovered Bronze Age weapons and offerings near hot springs in France.

It is also believed that the Celtics discovered the first hot springs in Bath (interestingly the name Bath is said to be nothing more than a coincidence).

However, it was the Greeks who really brought bathing to a new level with everyday regimes.

The word “spa” originates from a town in Belgium and dates back to Roman times. The Romans were well known for their love of medicinal bathing and they created much larger baths and bathing houses in towns such as Harrogate, Aix, Vichy and Bath.

Today, a spa has a much wider context that ranges from individual hot tubs in the back garden to complete spa (or thermal) centres offering a range of treatments from thermal hot springs and mud baths to saunas, jet hydro, steam baths, aromatherapy, body wraps, massage and beauty treatments.

T

he calm, zen-like atmosphere that is synonymous with spas is created by much more than soothing music, soft lighting and warm fluffy towels, it is all about focusing on one thing - you.

Unashamed pampering by a team of professionals who are there to cleanse and rejuvenate, soothe and reinvigorate the skin, the muscles and the spirit.

Gone are the days when a spa was aimed at the “beautiful people”. Any fears about stripping off and revealing the body have been alleviated by the fact that most treatments can be done with your underwear on, and swimming costumes in the pool are the norm.

Spas are becoming more and more popular and business is competitive. This is bringing its own rewards, not just to the centers themselves but also to their much coveted clientele.

What’s in a Spa

The original spa at Chateau Vigiers, for example, offered hammam, sauna, two beauty cabins and a Jacuzzi, but theychose to completely rebuild it in 2017.

The Spa architecture and interior was

The hydrotherapy pool at Château Vigiers

totally redesigned with natural soft colors and an area to offer a true moment of relaxation for clients. Six months on, it features 3 beauty cabins, including a double cabin, a jacuzzi, sauna and a 12-seater hydrotherapy pool. In addition, the spa offers a new range of facial and body products for men and women from SOTHYS. With separate days for males and females, the traditional hammams can form part of a relaxing day at Les Brumes de Masaline in Moissac (82). Le Stelsia at Saint Sylvestre sur Lot (47) is a colourful w

Cleanse and rejuvenate, soothe and reinvigorate The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

53

WELL BEING

Top to bottom: The counter current pool at Le Stelsa, The Medina Spa in Toulouse, Vinotherapie Spa at Les Sources de Caudalie.

Why massage?

ADVICE chateau with its own sensory showers, ice fountain, fitness room and counter-current pool. A natural setting with a hot spring rich in minerals and oligo-elements awaits you at the Vinotherapie Spa at Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux-Martillac (31).

As well as body and beauty treatments, the Othentic Spa at Gourdon (46) offers hot stones, hydrojets, saunas, spajets and massages to relax or energise you in accordance with your mood.

Built around a 20,000 year old hot spring, La Bastide at Cazaubon (32) combines thermal baths with hydro-massage cabins, Vichy showers, mud wraps and a beauty salon. Sauna, hamman, jacuzzis, makeup and beauty treatments for both men and women are offered at the Domaine d’Essendiéras at St Médard d’Excideuil (24). Inspired by visits to Marrakech, the Medina Spa in Toulouse (31) is there to create a sense of well-being with its hammams, massages, tanning salons and beauty treatments.

We all know that waxing, facials, saunas, a thermal dip and a pedicure can bring an instant lift to our sense of well-being but a massage, when targeted to the right area and performed by a professional, can have a long term life effect. Calming the nervous system, promoting relaxation, reducing tension and anxiety and even able to relieve depression, a massage also improves blood circulation. Delivering oxygen and vital nutrients to the body’s cells, it also stimulates the lymphatic system and helps to remove body waste. Suffering from muscle cramps and spasms, arthritis or sciatica? Try a massage, there are lots of different kinds to suit lots of different conditions but don’t forget to tell your masseur or masseuse if you are undergoing medical treatment or have had cancer. In some cases, a certain kind of massage may not be right for you.

54

Have a life concern?

Q&A

Ask Katie!

Katie Gardner is a fully-qualified CBT Counsellor and 10-year expat based on the border of 47/24.

She’s here to answer your questions. www.kgcounselling.com

Q

John M Does anyone else find that their 6 o’clock curfew on the first drink of the day is becoming earlier? We go to the bar/cafe twice a week for a coffee, either in the morning or afternoon, but invariably finish up having a beer, a glass of wine or a cognac.

Lots of other people are there doing the same thing so I tell myself it is normal.

But is it?

A

Hi John Daily life, particularly in the more rural parts of France, starts a lot earlier than in the UK. Farmers for instance, are often up having already fed their animals and tended the fields by 5am; breakfast by 7am latest. Therefore, when we walk into a bar at 10am and see them all there with their glass of rosé and a bonne bouche, it is easy to

assume that if it’s okay for them to drink alcohol this early, it’s okay for us too.

But this is their lunch, it is generally just the one glass and then they go home to sleep for a couple of hours, emerging again to get back to work until 7pm or later.

As you are asking this question, you already know the answer really - no, it’s not all right; if you would rarely do it in the UK then rarely do it here. The occasional alcoholic drink in the middle of the day is lovely, of course it is, but perhaps have something watered down like a panaché (shandy) or a white wine spritzer.

However be aware that this is a slippery slope and must be carefully self-monitored.

If you have a life concern that you would like to share, please write to Katie c/o buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

WELL BEING

Bee kind to yourself If you can’t fit in a spa day, there are ways to pamper yourself at home. Here are some ideas. the body’s energies.

àSelect a bath bomb and have a leisurely soak in the comfort of your own home, with or without aromatic candles and a glass of vino or bubbles.

àDon’t forget to try the honà Try a head massage with one of those spikey things – you can even use it on yourself. Alternatively, a professional Indian head massage will certainly help to relieve stress and rebalance

Château des Vigiers Le Vigier 24240 MONESTIER 05 53 61 50 00 www.vigiers.com

ey and carrot face mask from the last issue – it really works.

Most of all, don’t feel guilty if you need time for yourself.

Take that time to do whatever pleases, you whether it is gardening, reading a book or even sleeping. Just enjoy it.

àYou could also choose a “mood soap” to suit whatever mood you are in. You can find these at the soap market stalls and online sites. Their distinct fragrances can transform how you are feeling and help you to relax, calm down or even become motivated. For instance:

• Peppermint for reducing anger • Charcoal and tee tree oil to • Jasmine, lilac, pine and refresh lavender for calming influences • Rosemary for stress relief and • Lavender and chamomile for energising relaxation • Apples for reducing anxiety • Citrus fruits and rosewood for a • Cinnamon for mental clarity sense of happiness and uplifting

and calm

Spoil yourself with a bath bomb, fragrant soap and a candle

Nestled in the heart of the Dordogne, between Saint-Emilion and Bergerac, Château des Vigiers is an internationally acclaimed resort offering four star accommodation in two unique hotels.

The 16th century château forms the centerpiece of the magnificent 27-hole golf course, two highly-rated restaurants – Michelin star restaurant “Les Fresques” and brasserie “Le Chai”, its own vineyard and a luxury new-look Spa by SOTHYS. The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

55

ARTISAN

From Place de Vendôme

to Domme

The work of jeweller Charles Duret is timeless, unique and utterly divine. Born in Paris and a student of gemstones at the Place Vendôme, he moved to Domme in 1999 and now presents his his work in the former Royal Mint of King France Philippe III, a suitable home to these prized jewellery pieces.

C

harles, the man, is as charming as his jewellery is stunning. Walking into the boutique is like entering an art gallery. You are struck by over 2,000 pieces, all made by his own hand in an array of styles and colours. Silver or 24ct gold plated, he also offers varnished gun metal for a darker look. Nothing is flashy, tawdry or over the top, despite the fact that some of the pieces are large.

Sculpting in pewter

As a designer having worked with the likes of Givenchy, Rodier, Courrège, Charles is self-taught and takes inspiration from nature and from his love of women. As he comments, “la femme

56

est belle naturellement” and he loves to see them adorned with mineral and vegetal materials formed into something magnificent.

His designs never start with a drawing, instead they are sculpted in pewter. His creativity takes over when he starts to work with the material, feeling the direction it needs to take to become alive and vibrant. He does not follow fashion but, instead, follows the material he is working with, leaning towards nature as a guide.

For every woman

“My jewellery is for women of all ages, all sizes and all personalities”, explains Charles.

“Whilst my heart lies mostly in the larger pieces, I also design smaller items as I know that bold jewellery is not for everyone. That said, I love it when a woman comes into the shop and I place a larger item around her neck. So often, she adores it and sees herself

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

You can read more about Charles and see his collection at www. charles-duret.com

in a whole new light. That, to me, is good design working its magic. There is no bling bling here, just sensuous, stylish, creative designs that are very different and which do not cost the earth. Quite simply, they are created to be affordable whilst making women feel very special.”

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

For those purchasing online, simply enter “The Local Buzz silver” or “The Local Buzz gold” in the message section and the bee will be sent to you. The offer applies to every purchase over the value of €39.50 and is valid from 1.9.18 to 31.10.18.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHARLES DURET

Stepping into his workshop, it is clear that he cares deeply about every stage from forming the original design to making molds, pressing the metals, assembly, intricate finishing and lacquering.

With a new workshop on the way later this year, Charles is rightly proud of the finish of his pieces. The subtle lacquering ensures that there are no black marks on clothes

and the lack of nickel enables women with metal allergies to wear every item.

He concludes, “I love playing with contrasts, mixing smooth, mirror-like surfaces with fractured relief whether it be for a bracelet, earrings, a brooch, a necklace, a ring or even a belt. I am also delighted that my international clientele enjoy wearing a creation from this beautiful part of France, wherever they may be in the world.”

Charles Duret is offering a 24-carat gold plated or silver plated honey bee to everyone presenting this voucher at Maison de la Monnaie du Roy, 24250 Domme en Périgord or online at www.charles-duret.com.

"

Excellent finish

Reader Offer

57

FINANCE

What can expatriates in France do with their UK pension?

BY COLIN L EI G H- HI GGO T T, B L EV I NS F RA N K S

Your pension choices could determine your long-term financial security, so take care to do what is right for you and your family.

U

nderstanding the options and tax implications for different pension types is key.

‘Defined contribution’ pensions From the age of 55, members of these schemes can usually: • Take the whole fund as cash – 25% will be tax-free (UK).

• Make cash withdrawals when you want – a quarter is usually tax-free each time.

• Take regular income through ‘flexible drawdown’, leaving the remainder invested.

• Take a regular income for life through an annuity.

Expatriates can also transfer UK funds to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) to unlock tax-efficient benefits and currency flexibility. However, a 25% UK tax applies on transfers to QROPS outside

58

the European Economic Area (EEA). Taking professional advice is important to establish if transferring is suitable for you and navigate the complex options.

‘Defined benefit’ or ‘final salary’ pensions Here, your employer guarantees a proportion of your salary for the whole of retirement. While you cannot usually withdraw cash, you can transfer to a defined contribution scheme or QROPS. Traditionally, this has been considered less attractive than drawing a pension for life, but today some providers are offering ‘transfer values’ of up to 40 times the annual benefits due at retirement.

However, it is crucial to seek advice to fully understand the long-term implications before

giving up guaranteed benefits.

Taxation While 25% of defined contribution funds can be taken tax-free in the UK, French residents will face French income taxes up to 45%. For lump sums, it is possible to limit tax to just 7.5% if you take the whole fund at once and have not already started taking benefits.

All pension income also attracts 9.1% social charges, unless you hold EU Form S1 or do not have access to the French healthcare system.

Making your money last The freedom to access your pension does not mean that you should. If you do withdraw your benefits, ensure you have a personalised plan

to fund your long-term future.

Beware of pension scams and also unregulated companies offering pension services, as they offer no compensation if things go wrong. Make sure your adviser is regulated through the UK Financial Conduct Authority and takes account of your needs, objectives, personal circumstances and risk appetite to find a tailor-made solution for you.

While you should take time to get it right, be mindful that some of today’s freedoms may not survive Brexit. Take steps now to establish your best approach for a prosperous retirement in France.

Up to date financial information can be found on the news page at www.blevinsfranks.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

S

Photo: Paul Massey

(A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE)

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PUZZLES

Crossword

I’m going shopping / Je fais mes courses

Find the equivalent words in French for the following

DOWN 1. the meat 2. the fruits 3. expensive 4. the pastry shop 6. the vegetables 7. the grocery store 8. the vendor 9. the bakery 10. the supermarket 11. the beer 12. the butcher shop

ACROSS 1. the wine 2. the market 5. the fish 8. the money 11. the cash register 12. the bag 13. the cheese 14. the wallet 15. the bread

With special thanks to Puzzles to Print. www.puzzles-to-print.com.

For the crossword solution go to page 65

T

It’s hot, it’s back breaking and it’s exhausting so why do thousands of people rush to help at the

Vendange every year?

It may be part of a long standing French tradition but there is something very spe-

cial about harvesting grapes that brings

rotting vines.

people together. Perhaps it’s the romance associated with the history of “les vins�.

NEWS

NOTEW

picking, Hand, rather than machine best grapes are cut means that only the through the same and pickers often go making sure that vineyard several times, to perfection. the grapes are ripened to be less damaged The fruits also tend are used and less than when machines

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

rotten or dried out picking through for the grapes reach grapes is needed once the co-op or winery.

of the land and Depending on the lay is done by the type of grape, harvesting steep slopes, for hand or machine. On and for the most the smaller vineyards hand picking is discerning winemaker, For wines such as the preferred method. and SauviMonbazillac, the Muscadelle be hand selected to gnon grapes have to grapes affected by ensure that only those fungus, the so called the Botrytis Cinerea the green butGoing back The local mayor presses “noble rot�, are harvested. to begin around monks ton for the Vendange to its discovery by Benedictine the first flower in 1080, noble one hundred days after in a priory in Bergerac vines. Exactly sweet has blossomed on the at the heart of all great lies rot instincts of the into too much when depends on the whites. Without going weather has been intense, the how more a s, ensures wine-grower detail, the rot are looking and tastgrape by removing and how the grapes more concentrated involving task higher percentage of ing. This is a complicated water and leaving a amount of sugar and acids and minerals behind. an assessment of the fruit sugars, as well as the colour is often made acidity in the grape For red grapes this decision the taste of the The richer of the skin and pips, depending on their colour. of tannin. the riper it is. grape and the level and darker the grape, cold winters allow Generally speaking, and maintain its the vine to hibernate following year. A strength ready for the with some rain will long, warm summer slowly and evenly allow the fruit to ripen dry autumn, will and, if followed by a conditions. Rain make ideal harvesting the balance before harvest can throw

OUT + ABOUT

LOT ET GARONNE

the camaradehe soil and the vines, arduous day and rie, both during the a meal at night, the glasses of wine and and, often, sleepthe sense of working a single goal. ing together to achieve vines and bringing Starting with rich, full team over a fairly a of part as in them than satisfying, it is short period is more . What’s more, an incredible achievement appreciated, not it’s one that is greatly but by everyone just by the winemaker in the future. who buys that wine

right off and between sugar and acidity lead to mildew and too much rain could

A few news snippets of interest to our region

of different tasks There are a number in the vendange and to be accomplished team, adding to the everyone works as a in hand. With excitement of the task and a box at their secateurs at the ready about selecting feet, the coupeurs set Porteurs pass grapes and cutting them. emptied into a large by and the boxes are capable of holding sack on their backs, physically tiring but many kilos, a simple and endurance. task requiring strength it will usuTo put this into perspective, or around 10 ally take 600-800 grapes, single bottle of wine bunches, to make a many are being so you can imagine how picked and transported.

Brexit worries La Place du Capitol, Toulouse

Free Entry All Day

are tipped into From there the grapes their next destinalorries and taken to tion for processing and, at this stage, it is not

European Heritage Day on 16 September is the day when every Monument Historique in France opens its doors free to the general public, giving everyone the chance to visit, or revisit, the monuments and buildings that form the structure of French history.

For ideas, take a look at some of the buildings listed in our Area Information pages at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/ area-info

unusual to see road signs warning of the perils of slippery grape juice!

in joining a venFor anyone interested your local vinedange team, just visit you do, please drink yard but, whatever responsibly.

Toulouse Airport

If you have any concerns about your right to stay here in France or to receive your pension, etc., after Brexit, you need to read this. The British Embassy has included a Top 10 Questions from British Expats in France in their recent Voisins Voices newsletter

...a hard but fun task

selects the

and it covers these topics and more. It gives clear, definitive answers to many of the most worrisome questions. https://assets.publishing. service.gov.uk/government/ uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/722600/ Top10Questions.pdf

Mosaic originals

L’Art en Toit will be thrilled to bits if you attend its workshop on mosaics,

Stop Lugging

ag.com

28

r & October 2018

The Local Buzz • Septembe

Like the

French

ès

say: “Apr

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

27

d’Agenais, the MusÊe Ecole de Lamarque and the quays at Tonneins. With a departure point at Lagruère and available until 31 October for groups of 10 or more, it costs just ₏3 per person.

05 53 89 53 69

Relive the days of motorbikes and Johnny Halliday at Labastide-Castel-Amouroux on 22 September.

A shiny line-up of “motosâ€? will be revving up to kick start the festivities with a procession at 16:00, followed by a jambon braisĂŠ dinner at 20:00 and then the main event. Johnny Halliday, well his number one impersonator, Phil Lyn, will be in concert at 22:00!

The concert is free and dinner is â‚Ź12pp. www.eterritoire.fr

The FĂŞte du Miel at BoĂŠ is being held on 16 September and will bring a hive full of honey in all its forms, as well as entertainment based on a bee theme and a producers market.

Open from 10:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 17:00, this sweet event is free.

05 53 48 10 82

Peace man!

Dig out your beads,

fling on your flares and go as psychedelic as you can at the ‘60’s night at Saint-

Colomb-de-Lauzun on 27 October. If you can remember the

HONEY GALORE!

collage and pottery. Working with mirrors, paintings, pottery and other collage materials, these professionally led workshops aim to help you develop your own art form. Open to adults and those over 4 years of age, the course lasts 1.5 hours and costs â‚Ź10 to include materials and kiln. For dates and times visit www.lartentoit. wixsite.com

le rÊcon l’effort,

29

best grapes

WALK THIS WAY!

Discover the fascinating history of the Garonne, the 19th Century Canal, the fauna and the flora with a heritage walking tour.

This guided walk combines landscapes and springs by taking in the port of Mas

fort�

www.thelocalbuzzm

HERE’S JOHNNY

Creepy!

The older you are the more terrifying it will become in the Château de Duras on 31 October. Sorry, it’s not for the young ones but those aged between 10 and 12 can enter at 19:00, with the scariness increasing every hour, along with the age of entry. Then at 22:00 those over 18 can put their bravery to the test. Go ahead, we dare you! 0553 83 77 32

GoĂťt de France

Look out for the nationwide Fête de la Gastronomie on 21 to 23 September, an event designed to promote all that’s good in French cuisine. Depending on the location, this might involve tastings at markets, food themed events, tours of breweries and wine cellars, or gourmet meals at reduced prices. Sadly, at the time of going to press we could not locate a definitive list so watch out for the logo.

Fed up of lugging luggage? Toulouse Airport has launched a baggage transfer service which takes care of your luggage to/ from the airport. A porter picks up the baggage at your home or hotel, stores them for however long is necessary and then takes them to the terminal (or vice versa). For more info: www.toulouse.aeroport.fr/passagers/boutiques-services/transfert-de-bagages

Hand picking

what’s the

BUZZ

dance moves of the time, all the better.

Our memories seem

to recall lots of peace signs in the air and

Classical Works

With organ and a choir of close to 100, the Church at Cuzorn near Monflanquin will be filled with classical music on 14 October. Produced by the local and very musically accomplished, LĂŠmancePrince Noir, the concert pays tribute to the Requiem

by Gabriel FaurĂŠ and the “Messeeâ€? works of Charles Gounod. Tickets are â‚Ź10. www.ensemblevocalprincenoir.jimdo.com

14 www.thelocalbuzzmag.c

om

huge hairdo’s. Are you old enough to remember?

Gasandji

AGEN AGAIN

There is so much to do at the Foire Expo d’Agen this year that you might want to go for more than one day! Open from 12 to 16 September, it includes a series of different villages, each with its own theme. These include vintage items, motorbikes, agricultural produce, beauty and sensuality, drones (and yes you can test drive one), the scary Star Flyer ride and all kinds of entertainment, music and additional events.

Open daily from 10:00, it closes at 20:00 on Wed and Thur, 22:00 on Fri and Sat, and 19:00 on Sun. Entry is â‚Ź2 and free for children under 12. For a full programme go to www.foire-agen.com

LOT ET GARONNE

es are Calling ines TThheeVVin

05 53 94 13 36

African jazz and soul comes to MĂŠzin on 6 October with the fabulous and charismatic Congo singer Gasandji.

Featuring both contemporary and traditional music, this concert will undoubted-

There’s something for all the family

ly be an emotional experience with music evocative

of both today’s trends and an ethereal African beat.

Tickets are â‚Ź10 and you can hear a sample track at www.gasandji.com

The Local Buzz • September

& October 2018

Wordsearch

15

Some of the words are in the articles, some are things we come across in life. You will find them running from side to side, top to bottom, bottom to top, back to front and diagonally.

The words you are looking for (but there are others) are: VOILA REBUS OIL MARKETS GOURMET DUCK TUCK WINEMAKERS HALLOWEEN HERITAGE BIDON KNOW BETISE SHORTS PICKING

60

BICYCLING MIDI KILO SECATEURS EYE SEE STAY SPRITZER AGEN EMBASSY RICH HONEY BONBONS HEAT CHARM

TOP PICNIC VENDANGE GLOVE VINICULTURE ROMANCE MAYOR TRADITION SOIL FRUIT PIP MILDEW FUNGUS SWIM

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Snap to it

COMPETITION

How do you fancy having a professional photo shoot with a national newspaper photographer? You can choose to capture the moment with your family, friends or even a family pet.

As a special competition for our second issue, our own Jeff Ross has agreed to host a photographic sitting at your home or favourite spot in the region for free! All you have to do is strike your best pose – and answer these simple questions which are based on the contents of this issue, which can also be seen at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online.

Enter online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win

JEFF & DEBZ PHOTOGRAPHY

1. In French, a water bottle for a bike is called? a. Bison b. Bidon c. Bidet

2. What does Entre deux Mers mean? a. On dry land b. Between two shores c. Between two seas

3. What is the common name for Botrytis Cinerea a. Noble rot b. Knightly rot c. King’s rot

4. How many tonnes of compost are needed for a 5700m² garden? a. 15 b. 20 c. 35

Closing date for entries is 10 November, 2018.

As the winner of this fabulous competition worth around EUR 300, your images will be made available as edited jpg files over the internet. You can share them with friends and relatives freely, although copyright remains with Jeff and Debz Photography.

Photographs can only be taken within depts. 33, 24, 47, 32, 46, 82 and north 31 and the session must be held by 10 December. The Local Buzz will automatically be granted permission to print pictures from the session, as selected by the winner, in a following issue. This competition is for one photographic session of up to 3 hours only, no out of pocket expenses are included. This is a competition without obligation to buy – the rules of the competition are deposited with S.C.P. Laurent Rodriguez and Gaël Peyssi Bailiffs Associates, 25 rue Louis Mie, 24007, Perigueux, Cedex. These rules can also be seen online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win. Entries can be made online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win. (Postal entries should be sent to Bergerac competition, The Local Buzz, Labarthe, 47120 Baleyssagues, France.)

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

61

Business Directory To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

General Interest Counselling for English Speakers Qualified & Accredited CBT therapist

Free Assessment

Please visit toulousetherapy.com

...caring for and re-homing animals in need www.phoenixasso.com

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WEBSITES LOGOS PRINT

AT TH UR N YO E G I S AG S E LK U D ‘ A NG 05 53 93 38 43 T A www.pixelpoint.design L hello@pixelpoint.design ’

A in

3555 Generali Assurance.qxp

05/12/2006

10:54

P

Page 1

Em

www.french-insurance.com Agence Eaton 00 33 (0) 2 97 40 80 20

ee r F 2 step

Guide

62

BILINGUAL FRENCH INSURER PROPERTY, AUTO, MEDICAL, TRAVEL, LIFE, PET, BUSINESS…

MASTER YOUR FRENCH PROJECT

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

Are you grieving for a lovd one and needing to talk? We support the bereaved and terminally ill, face to face in the Var, and by telephone elsewhere in France.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch.

www.bsnvar.org info@bsnvar.org 04 94 84 64 89 06 32 35 31 24 calls between 07:00 and 23:00

Voted one of the top attractions in the Dordogne www.brantomepolicehorses.com

Area :

A family run business specialising in removals, storage and shipping throughout Europe.

Tele-Sales persons required

www.safehandshaulage.com For more information – visit our website: www.thelocalbuzzmag.com Or email us : buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

Katie Gardner Counselling

Safe, friendly, intuitive CBT counselling by a fully-qualified counsellor with many years’ experience both here in 24/47 and in the UK.

www.kgcounselling.com Mobile: 06 02 25 57 82 Siret: 794 771 352

Product: Website advertising – new, exciting and unique to this region, clear benefits to customer.

Verified database provided, generous commission package offered.

Cold calling experience required and self-employed Email your CV and cover letter to: status essential.

SAS STOCKLOC Self Storage facility for all your household items and more Containerpersons Boxes, room space, exterior parking etc.

Tele-Sales requiredPacking boxes, bubble wrap and paper Safe and secure Product: Website advertising – new, Van Hire

exciting and unique to this region, clear benefits to customer.

16 route Prat Beziaou VerifiedCastelnau-Magnoac database provided, 65230, generous commission package offered.

00 33 (0)5experience 62 39 19 89 Cold calling stockloc@orange.fr required and self-employed Email your CV and cover letter to: status essential. www.sas-stockloc.com

PLEASEHELP.FR

ising pping

Artisans & Services

Open Office every Thursday 9:30 to 12:00 14:00 to 17:30 Come and see us for help with French administration and translation at 54 Blvd National, Eymet

06 71 69 92 61 info@pleasehelp.fr

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

63

Business Directory

Artisans & Services

Delicious treats served in a unique & cosy giant teapot in the South West of France...

Tea•Cakes•Lunches•Afternoon tea•Celebration cakes to order•Parties catered for

Hear better Feel better

16 route Prat Beziaou 65230, Castelnau-Magnoac Hautes-Pyrénées 0562391989 teaintheteapot@gmail.com www.teaintheteapot.com

Ma Confiture

Home made pies, cakes, seasonal jams and chutneys See us at these markets:

Roy and Janet Byrne Tel: 05 53 36 34 75 maconfiture@aol.com

Thursday – Eymet Friday – Ste-Livrade sur Lot Saturday – Villereal Sunday – Chateau Stelsia, St Sylvestre

Cost effective hearing aid repairs delivered straight to your door.

All makes and all models.

Our standard repair comes with a 6 month warranty.

Contact us for a free, no obligation quote.

00 44 1635 48724 www.hars.co.uk info@hars.co.uk

Sales and/or Tele-Sales persons required We are rushed off our feet with our new magazine and website and need help from professional, talented, self-motivated and preferably experienced sales enthusiasts in dealing with enquiries and talking to our sales prospects.

Areas : Gironde, Dordogne, Lot et Garonne, Lot, Gers, Tarn et Garonne and north Haute Garonne Product: A4 magazine and website advertising – new, exciting and unique to this region, offering clear benefits to the customer. Take a look online at: www.thelocalbuzzmag.com.

You can also read the magazine online at: www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online Verified database provided, generous commission package offered Cold calling experience required and self-employed status essential How to apply: Send CV and covering letter to buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

Buzz The Local

64

To advertise email: buzzing@thelocalbuzz.com

A big thank you to everyone who wrote in, here are just a few of the comments that we received.

• Congratulations

ladies all your hard

work has resulted in a fabulous magazine and certainly reads as good as it looks. Packed full of very useful information and excellent guide to ‘What’s on’ in our area it’s certainly given me a few ideas! Alan R • Thank you for The Local Buzz, we love it, it is FAB!! So professional and glossy, very upmarket. Love the contents, all very impressive, I know it will be a huge success and well worth all your hard work! I bet the shelves are already empty, well done, superb result!!

Jackie B

• Wow thank you for the magazine, it’s fab! So much information in it, already given us some inspiration for future planning. Margie M, UK • I wanted to congratulate you for the magazine which is very well done. It’s really a beautiful magazine that is successful. Jean-Michel D • Love everything about it, especially the photographic advice “zoom with your legs”, “State of mind” article, as a Yoga and Meditation instructor I found this article very interesting. I have already started using “Buzz Words”! The photographs are bright and

Crossword solution

Here is the solution to the crossword on page 56 / ( 9 , 1 & + e / $ + $ 9 ( / ( 3 2 , 6 6 2 1 $ / 5 Æ 7 1 e / , ' / 3 $ & $ , 6 6 ( ( , % 6 / ( 6 $ & 2 ( $ 8 ( 8 5 % 3 5 / , 2 ( , 2 0 $ * ( 8 5 ( 1 & 0 $ * + / ( 3 2 5 7 ( ) ( 8 , / / ( 5 5 5 & , + / ( 3 $ , 1 ( ( e

/ ( 0 $ 5 ( 6 ) / / $ 5 * ( 1 7 ( 8 6 9 , / / ( 7 e $ 1 6 * % ' 8 , ( 0 Ê 8 / ( ) 5 5 6 (

cheery, and made me want to read every article. Eliana B, Denmark • Thank you for The Local Buzz, I received it last week, and was very impressed with it, it is a great read and looks lovely. I imagine you have had many others saying the same thing already. Dean C • Great magazine, I love the gardening article, especially the glow sticks in the balloons, I am definitely going to try that one. Laura C, UK • The Local Buzz is really good and beautifully done.

“The magazine looks fantastic well done” Jennifer D

You must be very pleased and proud of all your effort and hard work!

Amanda W

We picked up a copy today... Got to say a massive ‘well done’ on a superb magazine packed full of brilliant information and ideas for things to do. Many congratulations to all involved! Alistair H

“

“Bee Heard

VIEWPOINT

Fabulous - fantastic magazine.

Love the buzz words, tried out a few whilst on holiday and they work! Thank you. Angie B, UK

Next Issue It’s not long now until Santa arrives as well as 2019!

In the next issue we will be looking at all things festive as well as keeping your stress levels down.

• Legalities: We ask a lawyer, a translator and a financial adviser why help is often needed in English • Well-being: holistic therapies, yoga and pilates • Gardening:Winter gardening, as well as the Plus holly, ivy and, of course, the tree!

Property, • Two types of tackle: (rugby and fishing) 7 Wonders • Food and drink: for the season of the Region, • Christmas:decoration, wrapping, online What’s On and

shopping, much, much more • New year: ideas for a buzzing party

The Local Buzz • September & October 2018

65

JUST DRONING

A tongue-in-cheek look at...

“ O

h, how I am looking forward to October, not!

I have some huge trees and whilst I love to see them when they start to bud and are in full leaf, I dread the moment when the leaves fall. I mean, can’t they just drop all at once! Why extend the agony over several weeks!

I learnt long ago that you can’t argue with nature and neither can you find your dogs when they are hiding in piles of leaves. Have you tried walking over mounds of leaves? Holes that you never knew existed suddenly appear in the lawn, sending your back into spasm and your ankles into a panic. Animals lurk underneath in the warmth, and

the fear of something slithering out is just too much to bear.

So, as a single girl of the “veuve” variety (and I don’t mean I sit and drink Clicquot all day), I “treated myself” to a trailer, a tractor, a gigantic rake and a collection pan to match. This went well until the blisters appeared and my arms could take no more. In my mind, this type of work is definitely a blue, rather than a pink job. I just love that expression but now, all the jobs seem to be purple!

At this point I invested in a sucky blowy thing. Of course, this was a foolish move. Anything “electrical” in my life always goes wrong. I either lose the battery charger and

by the editor

cable, or it just stops working.

This proved to be no exception and, sure enough, the sucky part stopped sucking.

I don’t give up easily though so I bought another. The leaves proved too much once again and, this time, the blower stopped blowing. I’m the only person in the world with a combination of garden tools that have to be used separately to achieve the original aim? I am a manufacturers’ dream I tell you!

Anyway, this year I have a new project for me and my two machines. Together, we are going to collect the leaves and I am going to enter into the world of growing my own compost. I am not a bad cook and

I reckon that I can follow the recipe from the pages of our gardening expert, Sue, for the perfect compost using the layering method with eggshells and vegetable peelings. The leaves that have been sucked and shredded will be placed at the bottom of a homemade compost bin. Yes, I have a couple of pallets and I reckon I can find some breeze blocks, although I have yet to define where exactly they go. Hmm, breeze blocks at the side or underneath? With all these leaves I might even try two different constructions.

Sounds simple, but then so did buying a sucky blowy thing.

Off to buy a new potato peeler – don’t even ask!

See you next issue!

66

“

mn

u t u a g n i r a ...cle

s e v a le

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

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The Local Buzz Take out a 6-issue subscription today’ to either of these magazines and as a special offer for France Magazine Readers we’ll give you £10 off the normal one-year subscription price of £99 and we’ll send you a FREE French Electronic Dictionary Bookmark worth £24.99 - a combined saving of over 35%. Also, as part of this terrific deal, when you subscribe to Bien-dire all p&p will be absolutely FREE for the duration of the subscription.

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