The Local Buzz - March April 2019 by Buzzing

Buzz The Local

Forthose thoseliving, living, working visiting • Gironde • Dordogne • Lot et Garonne • Lot • Gers • Tarn et Garonne N.Haute Garonne For workingoror visiting Dordogne, Lot et Garonne, Gironde, Lot, Haut Garonne, Tarn•et Garonne & Gers

MARCH & APRIL 2019

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WHAT’S ON

BREXIT PROPERTY

NEWS, REVIEWS & EVENTS

Spring

UPDATE Michelin Star

Guest Chef

is here

EASTER FOOD & DRINK

Local Entrepreneurs •Saving Tax • Seven Wonders • Well-being

The B-word. What does it mean for you? Love it or hate it, there is no escaping it, so our spring seminars will take a close look at what Brexit means for UK nationals in France. While the key concerns for many expatriates are residence rights and healthcare, we will also consider how Brexit could affect pensions and discuss potential implications for taxation, estate planning and your savings and investments.

Tue 19 Mar Wed 20 Mar Thu 21 Mar Fri 22 Mar Tue 2 Apr Wed 3 Apr Thu 4 Apr

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INTERNATIONAL TAX ADVICE • INVESTMENTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PENSIONS Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (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 Distribution Directive or the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II, the applicable regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. 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 L512-6 and 512-7 du Code des Assurances (assureur MMA). Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

Hello from our Queen Bee

Welcome to a spring filled issue which, we hope, will brighten your day as much as the blossom that is blooming. The great outdoors is welcoming us with warmer days, ideal for cycling, gardening, Nordic walking and randonnées. The bees are out in force and, as we love honey, we find out what is involved in beekeeping. Two new chefs join John on our food and drink pages and, as success follows many of the companies in this region, our local entrepreneurs feature explains why car hire is no exception. Meanwhile, on the financial front we look at how to save tax by donating to charity and, for property, hear one expert’s view on what Brexit is likely to mean to the property market. If you’ve been feeling the stress and strain of the parliamentary debates we hope our well-being feature on Reflexology and Aromatherapy will help relieve some of the pressure. If not, we cover Kinesitherapy too! Seven Wonders of the Region is sure to have you out and about but, if you can find time to relax, you can check out What’s On, sit down with the puzzles page, or enter our prize competition. Don’t forget our reader offer too. Enjoy!

Lesley Ashburner

Join us... www.facebook.com/ TheLocalBuzzMag www.instagram.com/ the_local_buzz_mag By the way, if you can’t pick up a copy, every issue can be read on the website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/ read-online, and postal subscriptions are available.

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 • March & April 2019

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 this issue. Please spread the word about The Local Buzz and let our advertisers know that you saw them in this magazine. For all enquiries please contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

CONTENTS March & April Issue

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 Gilchrist, Sue Sargeant, Puzzles-to-Print Our thanks go to: our regular contributors as well as Edwina de Tonary, Jonathan and Anna Beaussire, Yvonne Drolshagen, Jase Alexander, Philippe Birckel, Xavier Billot, Evgenia and Claude-Emmanuel Robin, Karl Ayling and Simon Parr, Linda Lewis, Adrian Lithgow, Jenny Michell and Keith Pantlin, Vikki Stevens, Château les Merles and Bougies d’Aquitaine. Cover: Shutterstock The Local Buzz is free and is published by The Local Buzz, Labarthe, 47120 Baleyssagues. ISSN 2516-8134. RCS AGEN Siren 842 643 173. 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 information, 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 116 000 - Missing child 119 - Child in dange

REGULARS 3 Hello 7 What’s The Buzz 8 The start of our 14page regional guide to what’s on 28 Gardening 33 Buzz Bits 34 Food & Drink 40 Seven Wonders 43 Buzz Words 60 Puzzle page 61 Business Directory 66 Just Droning

FEATURES 31 Charity Tax Savings 38 Local Entrepreneurs 39 French Conversation 44 About Beekeeping 51 Property & Brexit 56 Keep Cycling 58 Nordic Walking 59 Randonnées for all

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

WELL -BEING 52 Ease those aches and pains 54 Ask Katie

PLUS… 32 Reader Offer 47 Prize Competition 65 Bee Heard 65 Next Issue

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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

• Cadillac, 23 March (33) • Bergerac, 7 April (24) • Agen, 24 March (47) • Floirac, 14 April (46) • Miradoux, 17 March (32) • Nègrepelisse, 7 April (82) • Grenade, 17 March (31)

Bourses d’Objects

• Blanquefort, 21 April (33) • Ginestet, 22/23 March (24) • Bajamont, 30 March (47) • Martel, 31 March (46) • Fleurance, 14 April (32) • Valence, 25-28 March (82) • Toulouse, 5 April (31)

Marchés Traditionnels

• St Emilion, Sunday (33) • Monpazier, Thursday (24) • Casseneuil, Wednesday (47) • Bretenoux, Tuesday (46) • St Clar, Thursday (32) • Montricoux, Friday (82) • Muret, Tuesday (31)

Are you Buzzing?

GIRONDE

DORDOGNE

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

OPEN

SESAME Starting in April again this year, the Open Garden/Jardin Ouverts scheme opens the gates to a host of different gardens throughout the region. Featuring formal structures, immaculate potagers with all kinds of vegetables, and the British cottage garden style, the gardens are owned by French, Dutch and British horticultural enthusiasts. OG/JP is a charity and entry is €5 for a day pass or €10 for annual membership. See www.opengardens.eu for details.

LOT

T TARN et G GARONNE

LOT et GARONNE

GERS

ORTH NORTH HAUTE GARONNE

GOÛT DE FRANCE/GOOD FRANCE Now in its 5th year, this international event returns on 21 March. For the first time it will be celebrating food from a specific region and, this year, it is Nouvelle Aquitaine! The aim is to have 5,000 restaurants from around the world prepare a 4-course French menu using seasonal produce. Is a restaurant taking part near you? Keep an eye on www.facebook. com/projetgoodfrance to find out.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

GIRONDE

what’s the

BUZZ

CONCERT Basque singer Michel Etcheverry will be holding a recital in the church at Sainte Foy La Grande on 17 Mars at 16:00. With a tenor voice and a reportoire that spans from modern to classical genres, he promises an evening of joyous music. Organised by Les Amis de l’Eglise et du Temple, tickets are €15 and are available from 05 57 46 49 46.

MIND BLOWING When art and design meet glass, wonderful things can happen. That is the theme behind a new temporary exhibition at La Cité du Vin which opens on 15 March until 30 June. Functional, symbolic or redesigned for a new purpose, the exhibits are from a heady list of designers including Nicolas Boulard, Philippe Starck and Matali Crasset. The recognised film-maker, Jérôme de Gerlache, is also showing work specially created for the exhibition. Open from 10:00 to 18:00 up to 5 April, and until 19:00 thereafter, tickets are €8 from www. laciteduvin.tickeasy.com.

MICHEL IN

CHATEAUX OPEN DAY Now in its 28th year, it’s Open Châteaux in the Médoc on 6 and 7 April. Doors will be open at various properties in Médoc, Haut-Médoc, Saint-Estèphe, Pauillac, Saint-Julien, Listrac-Médoc, Moulis en Médoc and Margaux, where all classifications of vineyard will be inviting you to discover their cellars, their châteaux and their wines. 05 56 59 03 08.

SWAN LAKE The mesmerising Russian National Opera is touring Europe this spring with Tchaïkovsky’’s classical Le Lac des Cygnes (Swan Lake). With two performances on 16 March at the Arkea Arena in Floirac, this

romantic ballet tells the story of Prince Siegried and Princess Odette (who transforms into a swan during the day and becomes a woman at night). Tickets are priced from €39 to €65 from www.arkeaarena.com.

Go Harlem! If you havent seen them, you cant miss this! Famed for both their skill and hi-jinks, the Harlem Globetrotters Basketball team is set to dazzle and amaze you at Floriac’s Arkea Arena on 13 April. Tickets are priced from €29 to €56.50 and the programme starts at 18:30. www.arkeaarena.com. A fun, inspirational evening for all the family.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

More than 20 professional antique stalls will be lined up at the Flea Market at Barracks Lamarque in Libourne on 9 and 10 March. This historic place will be filled with antiquities and gems of all kinds, ready for you to find your own hidden treasure from 09.00 to 18.00. Entry is free. 06 82 81 43 43.

FAN OF FANS On display from 4 to 23 March at La Coupole in St Loubes, this stunning collection of fans includes items from the days of Louis X1V in the 1690’s, right up to the Roaring Twenties. Reflecting a world of aristocratic and bourgeoisie fashion, the fans are made from a huge variety of materials including tortoiseshell, pearls, wood, bone, organza, feathers, lace and needlework. Some are even made from engraved or embossed paper and have managed to stand the test of time! The exhibition is open from 10:00-12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, and entry is free. www.lacoupole.org. Diane et Actéon 1690-1700

Les Vendanges 1760-1765

Scène Champêtre 1730-1735

Carole Collaudin

Caroline Escaffit

Arts all around

Designed to generate a whirlwind of emotions, Château Pichon Bellevue at Vayres is home to an exhibition of art encompassing paintings, sculptures, photography and drawings. On display until 30 April, the works include designs from Carole Collaudin, photographs from Chantal Druet, paintings by Caroline Escaffit and sculpture from Katrine Gaultier. Entry is free and the exhibits can be seen from 09:30 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 18:00. www. chateau-pichon-bellevue.com.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

GIRONDE

OLD & BEAUTIFUL

BAD GIRLS Exposition Mauvaises Filles is a new exhibition at Château de Cadillac and looks at the days when the château was the first women’s prison in France. From the 19th-century to the 1950’s, the prison was aimed at reforming incorrigible, rebellious girls and helping them to become fine,

respectable women. The exhibition closes on 28 April but the châteaux, which was built during the reign of King Henry IV, is well worth a visit too and combines splendour and military pomp. For details of times, films and tours, visit www.chateau-cadillac.fr.

Marathon time! Organised by the Ociane Groupe, the 5th Matmut Marathon de Bordeaux takes place at 20:00 on 27 April from the Palais de la Bourse. Around 20,000 runners are expected to take part in the race and celebrations are set to continue thoughout the night. Half and Relay Marathons are also available, together with a Business Challenge. Village Marathons from Quai Richelieu will be run on the 26th and 27th and the event closes on 28th. For full details go to www. marathondebordeauxmetropole.com.

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DORDOGNE

what’s the

BUZZ

SPRING FESTIVAL How many events can be packed into one day? Why not go to this Fête du Printemps at Abjatsur-Bandiat on 21 April and find out. In addition to a plant exchange and street circus workshops, you can try out yoga, go for a donkey ride, enjoy an historical randonnée, visit the Priory gardens, join an Easter egg hunt and enjoy a concert at 17:00. Oh yes, there are also refreshments throughout the day from 09:00 to 19:00. 05 53 56 81 08.

OENOLOGY A wine-tasting amongst friends is being organised by La Tour des Vents in Monbazillac on 29 March from 17:30 to 19:30. Held by sommelier Juliette Cotteret, this introduction to oenology, the science and study of wine and winemaking, will concentrate on five wines from the Vallée du Rhône. 05 53 58 30 10.

Treasure Chest!

Fancy a treasure hunt with real treasure at the end? The Chasses au Trésor Hunting Town Géante comes to Bergerac on 30 and 31 March and brings with it two chances to win €500. The amusing and original five hour hunt, which takes in Bergerac and its secrets and ends with a winner receiving the money each day, is open to all and registrations are being taken from 1 March at www.hunting-town. com/inscription/. Places are limited so don’t delay. Prices are €12 for a day or €19 for the week end, free for under 12’s.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

JAZZ OFF

STRAWBERRY

DELIGHTS

Not to be missed is the 21st Foire de la Fraise at Nabirat on 28 April. As well as a vide grenier there will be strawberries everywhere! Don’t forget to see the gigantic 30m² tarte aux fraise which will be made on the day using 350kg of the delicious fruit. You can also reserve lunch at 05 53 31 28 82.

Château d’Eymet is the venue and Louis Winsberg, Benoît Sourisse and André Charlier are the trio who will be bringing the evening alive with their jazz homage to legendary saxophonist Michaël Brecker. Guitar, organ, piano, drums and percussion will be reviving his music of the 80’s on 6 April. Food can be reserved for 19:30 and the concert starts at 20:45. Ticket prices and full details can be found at www.maquizart.com

DORDOGNE

BALANCING ACT

JIVE AND COUNTRY

PIANISSIMO

Dine, listen or join in with the dancing at the live Concert de Old Shivers in Jumilhac-le-Grand on 30 March. Taking place at the Salle de Spectacle from 19:30 to midnight, the place is sure to be jumpin’. In addition, if you weren’t lucky enough to win one of her CD’s in our last issue’s competition, Martha Fields is in concert at the same venue on 13 April. She brings her own fabulous mix of folk, country, blues and bluegrass to the stage every time. 06 73 97 63 28.

Pianist Michel Dalberto joins the Sinfonia season of great performers at Centre Départemental de la Communication in Périgueux on 14 March. Charismatic and deep with poetic overtones, his romantic recital is said to span the colours of the rainbow. The concert starts at 20:30 and features works by Schubert, Schumann, Brahms and Liszt. 05 53 08 69 81.

Yee Hah! Go your own way It’s time to dust off those checked shirts and cowboy boots and join the lines of dancers at the Bal Country de Dream West in the Foyer Municipal at Montpon-Menestrol on 24 March. A warm howdy and grand country music awaits you. 06 02 33 47 87.

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil is the starting point for the Marathon des Forts on 17 March. The event combines a variety of distances for all-terrain bikes, runners and walkers, as well as a refuelling stop with free tastings of local produce to music by the Vino Veritas band. Details and registration at www. mdf24.fr.

Ten acrobats from the Circa Company set out to show what it is to be humans. How do our bodies, our relationships with others and our aspirations make us who we are? By pushing their physical limits to the extreme, they lead us to look at our own lives, the problems we face and the strength required to overcome them. How much weight can man bear? Who can we trust to help us carry our burdens? This moving journey starts at 20:30 in the Centre Culturel at Sarlat-la-Caneda on 5 April. Ticket prices vary. www.sarlat-centreculturel.fr

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 et Lalinde

Ref: 7510-EY €358,00 HAI. Set within just over 3 hectares of paddocks and woodland, this beautiful property offers spacious accommodation and income potential. The original stone farmhouse has 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. There is also an attached 2-bedroom cottage and barn. (6% fees inc) - DPE: Vierge

Ref: 7244-EY € 30,000 HAI Small house requiring renovation, with great potential. This house includes an office, a dining room, a kitchen, a bathroom and two bedrooms. A workshop of almost 100m2 is attached.

Ref: 7465-EY €183,600 HAI. Perigordian style stone house for renovation with 2 bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and a 600 ft² living room with open fire and a 3000 ft² stone barn that could also be converted in part. A pool, a pond and 1.3 acres of land complete the property. Full of character and potential. (8% fees inc) - DPE: D

(fees forfait 5,000 euro inc) - DPE: Vierge

Ref: 7452-EY €241,875 HAI. Countryside bungalow - living room, kitchen and dining room. The property has three bedrooms, one of which is en-suite and a family bathroom. Lovely terrace and fenced back garden. Single garage with storage room/workshop. Just 7 minutes from the golf course at Vigiers. (7.5% fees inc) - DPE: D

Ref:7585-EY €317,000 HAI. A modern bungalow located in a quiet village, comprising 4 bedrooms, one with en-suite, bathroom, office an open plan living room and kitchen, a laundry room. Outside, there is just under 4 acres of land, a swimming pool, and an outdoor eating area. A beautiful property! (7% fees inc) - DPE:C

Ref: 7447-EY €215,000 HAI. In a village with all amenities, beautiful house comprising entrance, sitting room, large fitted kitchen, laundry room, wc and a private courtyard on the ground floor; two bedrooms and a bathroom on the second floor; two en-suite bedrooms on the third floor, and a cellar. (7.5% fees inc) - DPE: F

Ref: 7573-EY €66,000 HAI. Lovely views from this village house with terrace and garden. The property comprises a kitchen, living-room, dining-room, two bedrooms, basement, a wet-room, wc, cabin and a garage. 5 minutes’ drive from all amenities. Oil central heating. (10% fees inc) - DPE: E

Ref: 7615-VI €263,375 HAI. Beautiful modern house comprising entrance hall, a living-room/dining-room with open plan kitchen, a large heated veranda, 3 bedrooms one of which is en-suite, bathroom, and a laundry/boiler room. Rear covered terrace giving onto the 8 x 4m pool. (7.5% fees inc) - DPE: C

LOT ET GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

RUSSIAN

BALLET Dancers from the

best Russian ballet schools are bringing a mesmerising performance of Swan Lake to Agen on 3 April. A spell turns Odette, a young girl, into a lyrical, poetic white swan by day, and a seductive, femme fatale, black swan by night. A Prince, of course, falls in love with her and the magical love story has

BALANCING ACT

Brotherhood and the spirit of solidarity is the theme of El Nucleo’s Acrobatic Circus in Nerac on 14 March at 20:30. Born in Columbia and usually performing as a duo, Wilmer Marquez and Edward Aleman have invited other Columbian artists to join them in spectacular dance and acrobatics show. Tickets are available to those over 8 years of age at €8 and €15 from www.albret-tourisme.com

Multimedia It may not be everyone’s idea of fun but there is a free workshop on how to declare your impôts at La Bib, Villeneuve-sur-Lot on 9 April at 17:30. This “Atelier

Multimedia” will also be looking at using the internet sites of the Mairie as well as Pôle Emploi and CAF. If you find such things a nightmare this could be heaven.

become one of the most popular ballets

FRENCH

FINE ART Landscapes, waterscapes and seascapes by the celebrated painter, André Dauchez are on display at 1 Place Paul Froment in Penne-d’Agenais from 13 to 28 April. This French painter often travelled to Cornwall to paint the dunes, villages, coves and fishermen, with open landscapes being his favourite subject. Entry is free. 05 53 36 25 25.

in the world. The performance is in three acts and starts at 20:00. www. agen-expo.com/ agenda/spectacles

Blues Station The 124th Blues Station is happening in Tournon-d’Agenais on 17 March at 19:00. Kenny Neal, with his New Orleans origins and soul, will be performing with his Band together with the experimental Little Mouse and The Hungry Cats. As a result, the evening promises to be a veritable feast of blues music. For more details email blues.station@wanadoo.fr.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

YEAH

YEAH!

Live from New York’s Metropolitan Opera via a giant screen, Wagner’s Valkyrie (otherwise known as the Incest Opera) tells the story of illicit love between sister and brother. This leads to their father slaying his son and quite literally petrifying one of his daughters. It is the

LOT ET GARONNE

Da da da dah dah! second of the four operas in Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring Cycle) and features the resounding Ride of the Valkyries, one of Wagner’s best known pieces. You can see it at Place du Fort, Villeréal on 30 March. For the time and tickets, which are €10, contact 05 53 36 00 37.

Relive the 60’s with this homage to The

HORSE TRIALS

Beatles by tribute band, The Get Back

The Grande Rencontre Equestre horse and pony trials are taking place in Casteljaloux on 18 and 19 March. At the time of going to press more information was not available but we knew that horse lovers would want to know. 05 53 93 74 75.

Group. Performing more than 30 songs in two hours, this nostalgic evening will follow The Beatles’ incredible career with hit after hit such as She Loves You, Back in the USSR, Lady Madonna, Eleanor Rigby, Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, and Let It Be. The Tannerie in Agen takes the place of the Cavern in Liverpool

Sweet! UPBEAT BEATS Song and dance come together in a creative performance reminiscent of music hall days in Astaffort on 29 and 30 March. The curtain goes up on Cabaret Sucré, which features elaborate costumes as well as Francis Cabrel, the well-known actor, composer and singer, at 20:30 and tickets are €27, including a plate of desserts. rania.vds@wanadoo. fr.

A mixture of upbeat gypsy swing and rockabilly is sure to bring the Tannerie alive in Agen on 30 March. LittleBalOuf is an exciting trio from Toulouse. About to release their first album, the band offers timeless music with guitar, double bass and percussion instruments. The performance starts at 20:30 and tickets are €12 and €14 from www.billetweb.fr/ mathieu-teteu

and the tunes keep coming from 20:30 on 6 April. Tickets are €12 and €14. www.billetweb.fr/ mathieu-teteu The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

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LOT

CALEDJO RETURNS

what’s the

BUZZ

Formed in Quercy, the Caledjo group is back in Pradines on 20 April for an evening of Latino music. Offering an authentic mix of sounds and styles from rumba to Latino festival music, the evening will be devoted to Spanish and Latin American vibes. The four musicians perform at 20:30 at the Foyer Rural de Flottes. Ticket prices vary. 07 68 56 08 35.

HORSE FAIR If you are a horse lover you will love this. The traditional Foire aux Chevaux at Capdenac brings together a variety of the best horses

JOIN THE FLOCK

Discover the Lot in five days with the 10th “Transhumance” walking experience which sets off from Rocadamour on 9 April. Following flocks of sheep and their shepherds, you will be stopping off at Carlucet, Frayssinet, Gigouzac, Cap sur Crayssac and will reach Luzech after 70km on 13 April, ready for a celebratory concert by Nadau. No vehicles or bikes are allowed and the walk, which averages 13km each day, is free. For details go to www.transhumance.lot.fr

from different breeders on 20 April. Starting

At The Docks

at 08:00, a number of events will be taking place throughout the morning and entry is free. 05 65 34 17 23.

CLASSICAL ACT Works by Puccini, Rossini, Verdi and Parisian chamber music will be performed by the Trio Solystell at the Eglise de Bretenoux on 10 March at 15.00. Soprano Lys Nordet will be joined by violins and alto. A welcome drink is offered and this classical concert is free. 06 09 15 12.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Currently working on his third album, Daniel Puente Encina is reinventing himself with a fresh, progressive style. This performance shows a trace of Creole music and brings in Afro-Peruvian rhythms with touches of Flamenco, Cuban rumba, Argentinian zamba and Valsa Peruana. Latin swing, conga and bolero mix in organically, whilst sophisticated percussion mingles with Spanish guitars. It will have you dancing in your seat from 21:00 on 22 March at Les Docks, Cahors. www.lesdocks.cahors.fr

LOT

CYCLE OR WALK

900 Years

A procession through the streets of the ancient heart of this Cadurcienne City will be one of the highlights of the celebrations relating to the 900th year of Cahors’ St Etienne Cathedral. You can catch the spectacle on 27 April from 15:00. 05 65 35 27 80.

Paper Images

HIERO WHAT? If you are ready to

try a new language, these hieroglyphics

The Brive to Rocamadour VTT and Les Sentiers de Rocamadour Randonées have become rituals for nature lovers each spring. The 23rd event is taking place from 07:00 on 24 March. This all-terrain cycle ride takes in 80km from Brive, or 40km from Borrèze, and attracts over 800 cyclists. The Randonnée encompasses 10, 20 or 30km routes and sets off from Rocamadour, usually with 1,000 walkers. For full details and to register, which can only be done online, go to www.cvgbrive.fr

courses could be just what you are looking for. Two courses are available each day on 13, 20

St Patrick’s Concert Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with an Irish concert by The Irish Peach in Concorès on 16 March. Energetic and lively, the group combines voice with flute, accordion, violin, guitar, bass and drums to perform “traditional groovy themes”. Beer and food are available on site and the performance starts at 19:30. Tickets start at €5 from www.festivalceou.com

and 27 March at the Musée Champollion This unusual show invites you to open the doors to your imagination by using a multitude of silk paper and sound to take you on a sensory and poetic journey. Is it snow, is it a fish, maybe it’s the sea or is that the moon or even a dragon? Piece by piece the paper flies into the hands of the audience who are invited to join in. Billed as a Spectacle Jeune Public, Sous la Neige is taking place at Théâtre de l’Usine in Sainte-Céré on 16 March at 10:00 and tickets are priced from €5. www.theatredelusine-saintcere.com

in Figeac. Designed to teach you the basics of Egyptian grammar using artefacts found at the museum, you will soon be able to start deciphering some of the ancient drawings and scriptures. Beginners can attend from 16:00 to 17:30 and advanced scholars from 18:00 to 19:30. Details and registration at 05 65 50 31 08.

Wine & Cheese The 16th Salon Vin, Fromage et Produits du Terroir is waiting to enthuse your tastebuds in Cazals on 13 and 14 April. Enjoy free tastings of cheese and wine from different regions together with artisan beers,

mushrooms, walnut oils, olive oils, honey, nuts, nougat, sweets and other treats. Entrance is free but we doubt you will leave without buying a few of your favourites. www.tourisme-cazals.-salviac.com

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PLANNING A HOLIDAY? Need house or pet sitters? It can be a worry preparing for a holiday. Who will care for your pets? How much do petsitters cost? At HouseSitMatch our sitters are experienced in home and pet care and they housesit for free. HOW DOES IT WORK? All new members register to join our online network. On registration we ID check everyone to ensure we know who you are, in addition we police check sitters. We charge a small fee for membership to ensure that we can afford to manage our site professionally. “Really great service and even better is the peace of mind of leaving your property in a checked sitter’s hands via a site with a great reputation.” Catherine White, Cat owner – Home owner Review on Trustpilot

Benefits for home and pet owners. Our membership offers access to sitters through our secure network. You post an advert ahead of your travel, we publish the ad and sitters apply. You view profiles and chat before you choose a sitter.

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GERS

what’s the

BUZZ

FESTIVAL FEEL YOUR WAY

TEA

DANCE Lectoure is the place to be to have your card marked on the first Sunday of every month from 15:00 to 19:00! This Tea Dance at the Espace Fontélie features accordion music and a wide variety of dance styles from rock and the Madison to waltzes and tangos. www.facebook.com/ pg/espacefontelie/ about/?ref=page_internal. Alternatively, you could join Laurent Michelotto and his orchestra for a dance-filled afternoon and evening in Mirande on 17 March. 05 62 66 68 10.

You won’t see a “do not touch” sign at this tactile exhibition at the Abbaye de Flaran. Le Petit Zoo de Flaran looks at the world of animal sculptures by celebrated and unknown artists. From prehistoric times to present day, this permanent exhibition is ideal for the partially or non-sighted. Guided visits and practical artistic workshops can also be arranged on request.

TIME

Three days of festival open in Seissan on 26 April with Welcome in Tziganie. Balkan and gypsy workshops will form part of the cultural village, which also includes exhibitions from around the world. Musical performances, entertainment for young audiences and much, much more awaits you. Three-day passes are €51 and camping is free to festival goers. For full details www.welcomeintziganie.festik.net

Improv Orchestra

Forget the talent shows, this is for those who would love to use their improvisation skills and play in a jazz orchestra. Starting on 13 April for two days, this practical workshop is hosted by conductor and pianist, Jean-Marc Brisson, along with David Haudrechy. If you can keep a stable rhythm, are able to harmonise and

improvise, can hold your own musical dialogue, and are willing to adapt with other musicians, you will have a ball. The course is €105 for adults, €95 for those under 18, and the arrangements will vary in line with the musicians who attend. www. lastrada-marciac.fr/agenda/ stage-de-pratique-d-ensemble-avec-jean-marc-brisson.

www.abbayedeflaran.fr

HOME DECO SHOW

At the 20th Salon de l’Habitat et de la Decoration at Auch from 22 to 23 March, constructors and designers will be showing building innovations alongside new furnishings and decorative objects. Dedicated to the home and its environment, the exhibition will also focus on the latest in energy saving and renewable energy products. www.salon-habitat-deco.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

EASTER CUP

BABY

Reminiscent of the blues and funky music of the 1960’s and 70’s, Rhoda Scott Lady All Stars combine neo-classical beats with modern day rifts. In short, they bring the best of both worlds and can be found at L’Astrada in Marciac on 23 March at 21:00. Rhoda is inspirational with her Hammond organ and is accompanied by saxophones, clarinette and drums. We’ll be surprised if you can stay seated. Have a listen to their music (and obtain tickets) at www. lastrada-marciac.fr/ agenda/rhoda-scottlady-all-stars.

TRAILS & WALKS Take to the great outdoors in Lasseran on 24 March. Laspetrail is organised by the Parents Association of St Jean le Comtal-Lasséran and includes trails of 5, 9 and 13km as well as a 10km randonnée. A licence or medical certificate is required and registration takes place from 08:30. Refreshments are available at 11:30 with a hot meal at noon. For the various departure times and registration fees contact ape.saintjeanlasseran@yahoo.com

GASTRONOMY GALORE

For the third year running Nogaro has been chosen as the opening circuit for the French FFSA Championships. The Coupes de Pâques meet will see French, Spanish and Portuguese riders battling it out in both the South European GT4 Championships and the F4 single seater Championships. Other races include the Porsche Carrera Cup, the Alpine Elf Europa Cup, Peugeot 308 Racing Cup, Coupe de France Renault Clio Cup and, just for fun, the Sprint Cup by Funyo-Sport Proto. For details of qualifying rounds, races and tickets, visit www.circuit-nogaro. com/fr/manifestations-8/ coupes-de-paques-1092

GERS

GROOVY

Mixing culture, entertainment and a gastronomic market with local culinary delights, the Goût de France (Fête de la Gastronomie) in Auch is taking place from 21 March to 24 March. Full details had yet to be released at the time of going to press but keep an eye on www. auch-tourisme.com for details or ring 05 62 05 22 89.

FLOWER POWER Mirande en Fleurs on 17 March is sure to be an amateur gardener’s paradise. With flowers and plants of all sizes, commercial growers and a flower fair, you are sure to find something for your garden, balcony or windowsill. The early bird will definitely get the worm or, at least, the best plants, so arrive early as it starts at 08:00 to 18:00. 07 81 88 81 21.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Espace

Points de Vue E x h i b i t i o n s o f C o n t e m p o r a r y A r t

From 9th April to 31st October Every month a new exhibition

2019

Lauzerte(82)

illustration Sébastien Gravouil

artpointsdevue.com

JAZZINMAR CIAC. COM I 0892 690 277 F N A C

C A R R E F O U R

G É A N T

M A G A S I N S

I N T E R M A R C H É

L E C L E R C

A U C H A N

C O R A

C U LT U R A

BUZZ

Week-end Marathon Montauban welcomes back its third week-end of Marathons on 30 and 31 March. Hosted by the Festival de Bandas de Condom, the event includes a course in the heart of this,

“the pinkest of the pink cities”, as well as a 10km run, semi-marathon, marathon, relay marathon and a new duo marathon. In addition the village marathon will be

COCOA IN MUSIC

set around numerous street events, with the promise of one or two surprises. Entry fees and full details can be found at www.marathon-montauban.com

Trotting is Back

TARN ET GARONNE

what’s the

Trotting is exciting, pitching horse and cart against each

other, each rider trying to outwit and outrun the other to win. The first course of the season opens at the Hippodrome, Beaumont de Lomagne on 21 April (Easter Sunday) at 14:00. A second set of races takes place on Easter Monday at the same time, as well as on 24 April at 13:15. Entry is €6 for adults and on-site restaurants and refreshments are available.

The colours of cocoa form the basis of this musical concert. From the early light and dark green on the tree, to yellow and fuchsia, cocoa changes colour throughout its life. Flamboyant in nature and depicted in Latin American music by Hildegarde Garcia Madriz and Andrea Cristal, the cocoa bean represents the joy and sorrow of their continent. Starting

MAKE BUBBLES!

at 17:30 at the Centre Culturel du SacréCoeur in Montricoux, the evening includes Salsas from Porto Rico, Merengues from the Dominican Republic and Calypsos from Venezuela. 05 63 02 41 09

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Want to learn how to make simple artisanal soap? Then this is the course for you! Held over one day and concentrating on the cold process, this workshop includes all raw materials as well as documentation and recipes. You’ll be going home with 800gr of your own soap and the ability to make more from your own supplies. Held at Caylus on 23 March, the course costs €99. 05 63 26 09 20

TARN ET GARONNE

POINTS DE VUE A new season of exhibitions and sales of present day works of art is about to open at the Espace Points de Vue in Lauzerte. Exhibits change every month and the first public opening will be at 18:00 on 9 April. From May onwards openings will be on the 1st of every month. Once again the organiser, the non-profit association Art Points de Vue, has selected a wide variety of professional art work in many disciplines. For information about the association, the venue and profiles of the artists visit www.artpointsdevue.com

Mosey on Down It’s Lauzerte’s turn to polish those boots and step up for for some Country dancing on 9 March at the Salle des Fêtes. Held by the local country dance club, this foot tapping, hand clapping event starts at 20:30 and entry is just €5. Grab your partner by the hand and enjoy! 06 24 83 08 20.

DINE N’ DANSE

There are a number of opportunities to dance across the region in March and April. Comberouger is hosting a dinner dance with Aldo Feliciano and Christian Luc on 10 March and 14 April respectively, from 18:00 to midnight. Tickets are €17 from 05 63 02 82 23. An Afternoon Dance is planned at Septfonds on 21 March at 14:30, 05 63 31 23 86, and you can take part in a Tea Dance at the Salle des Fêtes at 14:30 in Montricoux on 31 March. Aldo also performs in St Sardos for a Dinner Dance on 3 March, with David Firmin playing on 7 April from 18:30 to 23:30. Tickets are €16 with food, €8 without, from 05 63 02 58 45.

FLOWERS GALORE

Walk This Way Two accompanied, free Randonnées are stepping out near Saint Antonin Noble Val in March. An 11km walk sets off from Mordagne, Cas at Espinas on the 5th and another threehour walk starts from La Peyriere at Feneyrols on the 19th. 06 81 82 31 01. An Easter Randonnée is being held at Faudoas on 22 April with walkers invited to join the party for €2 from 08:30 for a 10 km Circuit du Brounan. 06 83 01 83 62.

The Place des Cornières will be blooming with all kinds of flowers in Lauzerte on 21 April. Flowers, seeds, shrubs and aromatic plants will be on sale as well as garden accessories, pottery, tools and equipment. Advice about plants, the environment and gardening in general will also be on offer. Visitors are invited to bring along their own creations such as flower sculptures and photos to be displayed alongside the works of school children and artist Philippe Gigot in the “Art”Ificiel garden. acalauzerte@gmail.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Precision & Procedure No two words better describe how to practise French Law.

France, like no other country, is a legal and administrative obstacle course. This is why when you choose a lawyer to handle a French matter, you need to work with a firm who only specialises in French Law. We have English French-trained lawyers (avocats), living and working in Toulouse. Being there on the spot is certainly practical, but the secret of Bright Avocatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; success is simple: listening, asking the right questions, and finding the most effective course to a satisfactory conclusion.

+33 (0)5 61 57 90 86 - brightavocats@orange.fr 16 place Saint-Georges 31000 TOULOUSE

www.brightavocats.com

N. HAUTE GARONNE

Private

what’s the

BUZZ

INTERNATIONAL

FAIR

The Parc des Expositions will be jam packed with the 86th Foire Internationale Toulouse from 13 to 22 April. In addition to hundreds of lifestyle, food and drink, home and garden, travel and leisure items, this year’s exhibition also includes art and sculpture, including urban art and anamorphosis. Shown for the first time in France, a remarkable exhibition about Tokyo will take visitors on a journey through the city that never sleeps, looking at both the great moments of the past and the city’s vision of the future. Tickets are from €4.50 and the exhibition opens at 10:00 daily. www. foiredetoulouse.com

Collection

Walking Tour

Shown for the first

Visiting the heart of Toulouse, this tour takes in major monuments such as le Capitole, la Basilique Saint-Sernin, le Couvent des Jacobins and l’Hôtel de Bernuy. Extraordinary architecture and Roman art will also be on the agenda with la Maison Mère des Dominicains, and you can take the first steps on the Chemins de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle. The route starts at the Office de Tourisme, Donjon du Capitole and reservations are suggested as places are limited. Tour dates vary and tickets are €10 and €12 for adults and from €7 for children over 12 years of age. 08 92 18 01 80.

Italian and French

time in Toulouse, this exhibition of 80 17th and 18th-century paintings has been organised by the Bemberg Foundation. Owned by Helena and Guy Motais from

SWAP OR BARTER

Narbonne, this exceptional collection high-

Calmont will be going very green on 17 March with a morning of plant and seed swapping and bartering. This is a free event and no money can change hands. You simply arrive with your plants and, if possible, a folding table. Each of the attendees are encouraged to share tips and advice too! Troc Plantes et Graines is in the Place des Canelles from 10:00 until noon. 06 28 33 71 51.

lights the intimate history between art lovers and their paintings. It can be seen at Hôtel d’Assézat, Toulouse throughout March and April. Closed on Mondays, entry fees range from €5 to €8 from 10:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to

FASTIVAL 2 Folk, soul-rock, ska and song take

18:00 (until 20:30 on Thursdays). 05 61 12 06 89.

centre stage at this second event with music from a variety of bands including Les Enfants de Martine, Tell Mama, The Basset Band and Jean Cambon. An evening rich in sound is promised at the Salle de Fête in Loubens-Lauragais on 23 March at 19:00. On-site catering is available and admission is free. 06 76 84 80 63.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Got a Bike? The Merry Pétrolettes de Saint-Léon is organising a motorbike outing on 28 April, taking in the slopes of Lauragais. Setting off from St Léon Square at 08:00, this nostalgic event is open to all motorcycles dating from 1930 to 1990. Spaces are limited to 60 bikes and registration is available until 15 April, at €25 per person to include breakfast and lunch. 06 81 17 42 68.

CARTE BLANCHE Multi prize-winning pianist, and nominated for the Victoires de la musique, François Dumont has also received the Prix de la Révélation from the Syndicate of Music Critics in France. As a result, you can be sure he won’t miss a note in this carte blanche piano recital of Bach, Mozart and Chopin. The performance, at the Palais Niel Toulouse on 5 April, starts at 20:30 and tickets are €15 and €25 by reservation only. www. musiqueaupalais.org

MEDIEVAL

PARTY The 45th Fête de La Cocagne opens at 10:00 on 21 April and is set to be a funpacked day. Bands, jugglers, dancers, exhibits, painting work-

In celebration of International Women’s Day on 14 March, the Rotary Club in Revel has organised this theatrical performance of Stefan Zweig’s “Letter of a Stranger”. Tickets are €10 and all proceeds will go to a local association. The performance starts at 21:00 at Ciné Get and an exhibi tion of photographs complements the event. 06 15 25 02 03.

N. HAUTE GARONNE

REVEL REVELS

Flamenco! Una Noche de Sevilla in Toulouse explodes onto the stage at the Halle aux Grains on 7 April. This flamboyant interaction between music and dance is guided by Dorantes on piano who uses rhythm and melodies to create a spectacular intensity that typifies the soul and strength of Flamenco. Held in conjunction with Tourisme Séville, tickets are €25 and €33 and the performance starts at 17:00. www.box.fr/fiche/dorantes/1107824

shops, donkey rides, magicians, classic cars, burlesque shows, costumes and demonstrations of ancient crafts are just some of the items on the agenda. Don’t miss it! www.lacocagne.sitew. com

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Spring has sprung BY SUE SARGEANT, PASSIONATE GARDENER, NOVICE WRITER

There is a definite buzz in the air as spring is springing up all around us. This is a perfect time of year in the garden.

BULBS

Over the last 13 years I have planted so many different bulb varieties that I have lost count with what and where they are, so I will be in for a few surprises when the shoots push through. I usually buy bulbs in bulk online as I prefer large quantities for maximum impact. One of my favourite tulips, Gavota, is a perfect companion for the Cotinus which is commonly known as the Smoke bush. Incidentally, as some tulips are classed as annuals make sure you are buying perennials if you want them to appear next year. Cheerful narcissus provides excellent perfume in the garden. I tend to plant them in pots so they can be moved around, and also underplant them in a large barrel

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

HOMES + GARDENS with Hosta. The bulbs fade just as the Hosta start to appear and there is no need to cut off the foliage, just give a good mulch at the end of the season. If you are thinking of a greenhouse, place it on a concrete floor. It makes keeping it clean much easier, reduces the number of insects, and watering by hose (when permitted) is more effective. Our polycarbonate greenhouse has certainly paid for itself in raising our own plants from seed.

what they like to grow and eat. We had no idea what to expect at the first session but we set off with a car full of seeds that I had collected at the end of summer, plus some plants that had been divided, and cuttings from shrubs. We came back with a similar amount, having found homes for our offerings and some new interesting plants in exchange. Your local Mairie should have details of the Associations in your department.

SEEDS

PRUNING AND MULCHING

Early March is a good time to start sowing seeds, either in the greenhouse or on your windowsill. It really depends on the weather but if you have a few propagation units, or even some heat mats, it is possible to achieve the correct temperatures for germination. I often find I have too many seedlings for my own garden but I can usually find a friend to swap seeds with. A group of friends could even sit down at the start of the season and agree who is sowing what and then share. We recently joined a local Seed Association where they offer a free plant and seed swap three times a year. It’s a great way to meet French neighbours and learn

Roses can be pruned after the frosts by taking out any diseased stems and cutting those that are thinner than a pencil down to one bud. As a general rule the weaker the shoot, the harder the prune. If you are in any doubt and feel a bit nervous, find a step-by-step guide online. Summer flowering shrubs (those flowering after June) can also be pruned at this time. Now is the best time to mulch, preferably with your own compost (see the September/October issue online for the recipe). Top dressing or lightly forking in around shrubs, trees and perennials will put nutrients into the soil and suppress weeds, as well as making the borders look neat and tidy.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

ROUTINE JOBS

Check out your tools and book that mower service. Look out for promotions on compost at your local stores and buy in bulk when it’s on offer. Now is the time to weed and feed your lawns. Rake up those few leaves, sow bare patches and make those edges straight. Make the first cut just a tidying up session to avoid frost damage on new growth. Think about pots and containers too and look out for inexpensive Pansies and Primulas in local shops and markets. I love to find something different to plant up. This year I found an old ladder at a Vide Grenier and attached some small containers to each rung to make a garden feature. Summer Geraniums can also be bought as plug plants ready to brighten a shady corner but keep them in a frost free greenhouse or polytunnel.

OPEN GARDENS

The Open Gardens season will soon be with us. If you are interested in finding out more about gardening in France please take a look at www.opengardens. eu. You can come and see our own garden in the afternoon of 5 May, please see reference 180326 on the website.

Fill the house with cheery spring flowers

Hang potted plants to add vertical colour

Now is the time to start sowing seeds

Tulip Gavota is one of my favourites

HOMES + GARDENS

The Bees are back in town 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.

Well, maybe

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.

not exactly in

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.

town but they are certainly back in our gardens.

he warmer weather has brought back the gentle hum of bees as they start to collect pollen and nectar, rebuilding their food stores. It is now that the difference between Honey and Bumble bees will be most apparent, in that the number of Honey bees will far outweigh those of the Bumble variety. Thousands of Honey bees will have kept the nest warm and safe, eating and working throughout the winter, and will now be emerging to replenish their food stocks. Dandelions and clover will be amongst their favourites until the bulbs appear. Bumble bees, however, don’t live throughout the winter. Instead, only the Queen survives, having mated and gone into deep hibernation. She wakes in the spring with two things on her mind: finding a suitable nesting spot in

www.La-Belle-Maison.com

which she can build a wax pot to store her honey, and gathering nectar and pollen. Laying her eggs on the pollen, she will sit on them, keeping them warm, surviving on the honey in her pot. Mostly, it’s the Worker bees who are born first and these are tasked with the household chores and, of course, foraging for food. As the season progresses, the Queen will eventually lay eggs that will become the Queens and Drones of the future, and the cycle is ready to repeat. Some bees have, over time, become active pollinators during specific seasons, establishing a kind of “pollinator love affair” with certain flowers. Others simply pollinate any flower that takes their fancy such as the Crocus, Snowdrop and Scilla. SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Are you looking at a Honey or a Bumble bee? Bumble bees are fatter and rounder with broad stripes and hairy backs.

Email: beverley@la-belle-maison.com 10 Avenue de Marmande, Allemans-du-Dropt, 47800 Tel: 05 53 64 37 43 LBM - new advert final march 2018.indd 1

25/03/2018 17:20:06

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The pools come in decagonal or rectangular shapes and in sizes from 4.5x4.5 up to 8.8x4.5 metres. High quality liner (10 year guarantee) and external equipment. Full step by step English language installation guide. IF YOU DO NOT FEEL CONFIDENT ABOUT INSTALLING THE POOL WE OFFER A FULL INSTALLATION SERVICE BY OUR EXPERIENCED TEAMS THROUGHOUT FRANCE

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FINANCE

In many countries your generosity is rewarded by the tax man, and donations towards tax deductible charities in France is no exception. BY YVONNE DROLSHAGEN, PRESIDENT OF AQUITAINE LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS

TAX BENEFITS FROM DONATIONS TO CHARITY Y

our donations can bring you tax benefits in relation to different kinds of taxes. Amongst these are income tax, wealth tax and inheritance taxes. However, be aware that not all charitable organisations are recognised in the same way for the benefit of tax rebates.

WHICH CHARITIES? Firstly, the charity must be officially recognised as a “general-interest body” which means having a philanthropic, educational, scientific, social, humanitarian, sporting, family or cultural purpose, or they must make contributions to the national heritage or support the environment. It might also be a recognised association or foundation of a public utility, and certain cultural or charitable associations are authorised to receive donations and bequests. Donations to these recognised charities are tax-deductible and can give you tax relief for income tax of 66%, with an upper limit of 20% of your taxable income1. A charity may qualify for an even higher income tax credit if that association provides free meals, medical care or promotes housing for people in difficulty in France

or abroad, such as The Red Cross, Restaurants du Cœur, Secours Populaire or Secours Catholique, amongst others. This law, often named “Loi Coluche” referring to the famous French actor who founded the Restaurants du Cœur, allows a 75% tax relief, limited to a maximum donation of 537€. This corresponds to a maximum tax advantage of 403€. All donations over this limit can be carried over to the tax credit that applies for the “general interest” charities. If the charity is located in another European country, or a country being a part of the European economic area and having a double tax convention with France, the same rules apply. To know if a charity qualifies for these tax rebates, you should ask the charity if they can provide a receipt indicating the allowed tax rebate. In the case of wealth tax (IFI), your donation is tax efficient up to an amount of 50,000€ and 75% of

your donation is tax deductible. The list of organisations, foundations or associations that give this type of tax credit is much larger than those for income tax purposes, and other rules apply if you have also made investments in SME or in the social and solidarity economy. If you want to leave a legacy to a charity organisation, the legal setup of the charity is important as the charity organisation might be totally exonerated from inheritance taxes, or end up with a tax rate of 60% depending on their statutes. If you want to make such a legacy, you should discuss this point with your financial advisor. 1Note: revenu fiscal de référence www.aquitaine-lifestyle-solutions.com

€

€ €

€

For example: Mr Dudley, a French tax resident, has made a donation of 50,000€ to the Restaurant du Cœur. His taxable income1 is 100,000€. On his income tax bill this donation will produce a tax credit of 403€ (Loi Coluche) and 13,200€ under the general rules. The same donation will reduce his wealth tax liability by 37,500€.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

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Lift your spirits with melts and candles.

Hand poured in France, the glass encased candles give off glorious scents, and the wax melts are supplied in sets of six ready for use in traditional oil burners or electric wax warmers. Ideal for gifts, they can be delivered worldwide. To claim the offer, simply enter LOCALBUZZ in the “Apply Shop Coupon Codes” section at www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ BougiesAquitaine.

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NEWS

NOTEW

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

A few news snippets of interest to our region TOULOUSE IS NO.3 With over 9.6 million passengers passing through its terminals in 2018, Toulouse airport is France’s third largest regional airport. For the first time, international traffic exceeded national flights, a trend that’s set to continue following two years of work to ensure that all levels of service are in line with the best European standards. Designed to be attractive to airlines and passengers alike, the developments include commercial and catering improvements, as well as a 4-star hotel connected to the airport itself.

BEE HEALTHY

Santé Publique France has said that in addition to five fruit/veg a day we should be eating dried legumes twice a week and at least one starchy carbohydrate a day. Omega-3 rich shell-on fruits are encouraged daily as are two dairy products, and at least two portions of fish a week. Meat should be restricted to 500g and charcuterie and processed meats limited to 150g each week. Organic and local food is the way to go and, no news here, alcohol should be reduced.

Tax is zapped 2019 sees the introduction of PAYE but there are other changes too. Social charges on pensions of less than €2,000/m (€3,000 for a couple) have been reduced to 7.4%. Taxe d’habitation calculations have been amended and, for employees and employers, some social security contributions have been reduced, and corporation tax is down to 31%. To find out more, speak to your local Financial Advisor.

MINI-BREAK WINNER Perrine Buffiere from Dordogne is the winner of our November/December mini-break competition. On hearing the news she was delighted, saying “Domaine d’Essendiéras seems to be a wonderful place. I am sure that my husband and I will enjoy it.” Have a great break!

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

EASTER Chervil lends a subtle touch

The Buzz Bio

Annick and Philippe Birckel are the welcoming hosts in the 18th-century setting of Hotel Restaurant de Bastard in the heart of the historic city of Lectoure in Gers. Their chef de cuisine, Xavier Billot, combines his experience from the South West and elsewhere to transform fresh produce into culinary delights. Formerly at Le Moulin de Mougins and at Lenôtre in Morocco, where he was the executive chef in Rabat, he was also a consultant to the royal family before returning to his home town of Lectoure. In addition to a convivial atmosphere and a wine list built around their passion for Gascony wines and other regions, they offer an impressive selection of vintage Armagnacs to complete the experience. www.hotel-de-bastard.com

You can’t beat fresh seasonal mushrooms

FEAST Why not move away from the traditional

meats this Easter and try our delicious new take on a local favourite, coupled with some “big” red wines from the Gers.

ere in the South West, we all know that we have a lot of duck but, for some, it is one of the reasons why we moved here. However, there is more to duck than confit and magret and Philippe Birckel of Restaurant de Bastard in Lectoure has given us a fresh idea for how to serve it this Easter.

Cannelloni of duck confit with a mushroom and red wine sauce and cheese crisps For 8 people: 4 Duck legs “confit” 4 Sheets of lasagna (20x20 cm) 500g Seasonal mushrooms

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FOOD + DRINK Crunchy cheese crisps

200g Chopped white onions 3 Cloves of garlic, chopped 500ml Duck stock, 300ml red wine, 100ml crème fraiche 200g Ewe cheese (tomme de Brebis) 20g Fresh thyme, Salt and pepper, chopped parsley, a few sprigs of chervil 100g Butter

Method:

Cook the lasagna pasta until it is al dente. Leave to cool. Remove the meat from the duck legs, chop coarsely and set aside. Colour the onions and garlic, add the red wine (deglaze), reduce the liquid down and then add the duck stock to moisten. Stir in the thyme and chopped parsley to taste, adjust the seasoning and set aside. Finely grate half of the cheese. To make the crisps (tuiles), place a tablespoon of the grated cheese in a non-stick frying pan, spread it out and cook until a shape has formed. Remove carefully and leave to cool. Grate the other half of the cheese and mix with the crème fraiche to create the sauce. Sauté the mushrooms in a little duck fat/ olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Take a sheet of lasagna, add the duck and roll to make a cannelloni, place in a buttered roasting dish. Repeat. Bake in the oven at 180°C for 10 minutes, cover with the cheese sauce and brown under a hot grill. Whilst this is cooking, combine and warm up the mushrooms and red wine sauce, whisking in a little butter to thicken. Serve with the mushroom sauce and arrange the cheese crisps on top with a sprinkling of chervil leaves.

Powerful wines for complex flavours

he Gers is well known for Armagnac and about 90% of its wine production concentrates on beautiful white, rosé and sweet wines. To complement and cut through the soft texture and complex, deep flavours of this dish, the wine needs to be made with grape varieties that give us big, powerful, equally complex flavours, and it needs to be red. The south of Gers is home to the perfect grape variety, Tannat, and the king of Tannat is Alain Brumont. At Château Bouscassé, Brumont’s family property in Maumusson-Laguian, vieilles vignes (old vine) 100% Tannat is crafted with vines that are 100-years old, planted on superb terroirs and aged in 100% new oak barrels. The wine is full of black fruit and the palate is deliciously rich, big and meaty with a bloodstreaked density of fruit. This is a massive wine; the texture is fleshy with gripping acidity. www.brumont.fr Plaimont, a union of cooperatives, produces outstanding wines and the iconic wine of the St Mont AOC region brings the red Le Faîte. Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinenc grapes are blended at an unmissable annual event in the prestigious sanctuary of La Tour de Termes d’Armagnac. The grand

cru wine is full and structured with an aromatic complexity of black fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant) and liqueur, underlined by subtly toasted notes. www.plaimont.com Domaine Guillaman is south west of Condom and the Ferret family have been producing wonderful quality wines for six generations. The red Cabernet and Merlot blend is velvety and generous and has a dominant taste of very ripe black and red fruits from start to finish, with a balancing dark chocolate bitterness. www.domaine-guillaman.fr

Wines with big, powerful complex flavours

The Buzz Bio Emma and john Gilchrist

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

John Gilchrist has been in the hospitality industry for 30 years. A former UK Sommelier of the Year and winner of the Mondavi award for the best wine list in the world, John is bonkers about wine and is an enthusiast for the little wine producers. A seeker of unknown gems, he now runs Les Caulins, a gîte and cookery school in SW France, with his wife (and chef) Emma. 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 in a row. www.lescaulins.com

FOOD + DRINK

Something Special for Using local, seasonal produce our guest chef this

Easter

month creates a delicious, gastronomic treat.

ow boasting a coveted

Foie Gras Preparation:

Michelin Star, L’Allée des

Carefully separate the two lobes

Vignes at Cajarc, Lot is run by

and remove the main veins.

Evgenia and Claude-Emmanuel

Cover with the salt and chill for

Robin. We asked them to let us

30 minutes. Then rinse the foie

have a special recipe for Easter.

gras to remove the salt and dry

Offering fine dining with a

in a towel. Freeze for one hour.

modern twist, the restaurant’s

The Squash:

cuisine is seasonal and follows a

Wash and peel the squash, re-

local gastronomic theme, always

taining the skin. (The rest of the

ensuring quality from the local

vegetable can be used as a puree

producers. Flavours, colours,

or stir fry with garlic butter.)

scents and textures are explored,

Place the skins in a sauté pan,

highlighting Claude-Emmanuel’s

add the milk and cream, the

culinary creativity born from his

Thyme and Rosemary. Lightly

experiences in both France and

sprinkle with salt and pepper

overseas.

and cook for around 1 hour until

Claude-Emmanuel has chosen

most of the milk has evaporated.

his Carpaccio of Foie Gras with

Mix together until you have a

wasabi squash and black truffle

creamy consistency. Add the

shavings. It is a different, un-

wasabi paste and adjust the sea-

usual and original way to serve

soning. Cover and keep cool.

this local delicacy.

Finishing and presentation: Mix the flax seeds, sesame seeds and pine nuts, and toast in an

1 Fois Gras (around 400g)

oven at 180 C for 10 minutes.

150g Coarse salt

Place a “comma” of squash onto

1 Black truffle (Melanosporum)

each plate. Take the Foie Gras

20g Flax seeds

out of the freezer and cut each

20g Pine nuts

lobe into thin slices, placing

5g Sesame seeds

them directly onto the plates.

6 Pâtissons (small squash)

Add a drizzle of walnut oil and

200g Whole milk

sprinkle with the seeds. Season

100g Liquid cream

with salt and pepper. Decorate

1 Sprig of Thyme

with the sliced truffles and some

1 Sprig of Rosemary

seasonal edible flowers.

20g Wasabi paste

www.alleedesvignes.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ELODIE DELIÈGE

For 6 people:

Q You can find a recipe for Claude-Emmanuel’s sumptuous Chocolate Moelleux online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

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Caring LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS

Car rental with no problems?

car hire

e took to the road to meet Karl Ayling and Simon Parr at Buggs Car Hire, to find out what made them open a car hire business in the car park at Bergerac Airport some 13 years ago. The two entrepreneurs were friends in the UK before Karl and his wife Sandra moved near to Villeréal in 1996, followed by Simon and his wife Karen in 2002. The four are all involved in the business, with the ladies running the administration side and Simon and Karl at the head of operations. Having started with just three cars, they now employ eight full-time personnel and operate out of three airports, Bergerac, Limoges and, as of last June, Biarritz. The fleet now includes more than 200 new cars renewed

between every six and 14 months. The company’s ethos stems from their days of trying to hire cars over here themselves. Simon recalls “We had both experienced our fair share of car rental horrors and knew there had to be a better way. Hiring a car shouldn’t have to be a journey full of fear and trepidation, it should be a relatively stress-free procedure. So we took it on, totally independently, determined to do things our way.” Driving their own pathway through the monopoly of faceless multi-national car rental companies, they concentrated on the actual rental process and service they wanted to receive when renting a car in a foreign country. It had to be straightfor-

Too good to be true? Not in this case.

ward and easy and, according to reviews, they seem to have achieved exactly that. Mindful of the fact that their customers include, amongst others, house hunters, business people and, of course, those who are on holiday, the range includes a car for virtually every occasion. Karl explains, “Our customers may want a fun vehicle to enjoy our countryside, or arrive at a business meeting or venue in style, or need something functional to take the entire family and a few bottles of wine! One thing they do want is a clean, new car that is ready and waiting when they arrive. We are just dipping our toes into commercial vehicle hire for 2019 too!” They also took the brave decision to

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

ignore comparison sites for the simple reason that there is, well, no comparison. Karl explains “Comparison sites tend to use brokers who then sell the bookings to whoever will service them, and that sometimes means no one at all. As the local supplier has 48 hours to refuse the booking, the biggest problems usually occur when the booking is made at short notice. Until the local supplier accepts the booking, the contract is with the comparison site, not the car hire company. The hire company will then issue a new contract, if they accept the booking. It can be very confusing. Travellers really can arrive to find that the booking has not been accepted and there is no car available. “That’s definitely not something we want to be associated with”, adds Karl. “This is why we only accept bookings direct, through our website. This means the booking is confirmed, the car is confirmed, the price our customers see is the price they pay, with no hidden surprises or extras over and above those that have been selected, and that’s guaranteed.” Other entrepreneurs will be glad to know

that the setting up of the company was different but no more complicated than in the UK. The most beneficial move they made was to employ an established accountancy practice who understands the French system intimately, to guide them. This year their biggest challenge will be Brexit and the uncertainty that it brings. However, with over 5,000 customers in 2018 and more cars on the way and more branches under consideration, the future is looking very bright indeed. Quality customer service is key and, for the team at Buggs, this even extends further than the hire of the car. Karl recalls leaving the airport one day following one of their customers who was driving on the wrong side of the road. He tried to get his attention, flashing and honking but the driver carried on. Karl was able to pull level and, whilst driving side by side, shouted “you’re driving on the wrong side of the road” to which the driver’s wife nudged her husband and said “told you so”. Thankfully they pulled across behind him and made it out of the Airport on the right side. That’s customer care for sure! www.buggscarhire.com

UP & BUZZING We are delighted with the response we have had for the French Buzz initiative. The word is definitely spreading!

ou can see which venues are offering a warm welcome, and when, in the French Conversation Section of our website business directory. Also, don’t forget to look out for our distinctive window sticker as you walk through towns both near and far afield – you never know where you can pop in for a French/English chat!

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Over 200 cars await you

What’s it all about?

Here at The Local Buzz we are keen to help English speakers to integrate fully into the French way of life. We all know what it’s like trying to speak a foreign language, especially with complete strangers. It can be daunting to say the least. Nevertheless, practice makes perfect and what better place to practice than with others who are there for exactly the same reason, and with no embarrassment or self-consciousness? Not only will you meet new people who speak English, but you will also be conversing with French people and may even make new friends. Now that’s real integration! Please don’t forget to let us know of other establishments that might like to join in, just send us an email to buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com.

SAINT CIRQ LAPOPIE DORDOGNE

Sadirac

★ Chancelade

★

LOT

GIRONDE

Penne d’Agenais LOT ET GARONNE

★

Saint-CirqLapopie

★

TARN ET GARONNE

Lavardens

★ Buzet- ★

Grisolles

★ GERS

sur-Tarn

N. HAUTE GARONNE

Why not take advantage of the warmer, brighter days and visit some of the pretty villages in our region. These are sure to put a spring in your step.

CHANCELADE

7 WONDERS OF THE REGION CHANCELADE in Dordogne is well worth a visit. Founded in 1129, the Abbey is stunningly beautiful despite the damage it sustained by English troops in the Hundred Years’ War, and by Protestants in the French Wars of Religion.

Thankfully it was fully restored in 1623. The “Chancelade Man” is the skeleton of a man buried around 15,000 years ago. It was found below three layers of rock in 1888 in the Raymonden rock shelter, a prehistoric cave just north of

LAVARDENS

the town. The original skeleton can be seen in nearby Périgueux at the Musée d'art et d'archéologie du Périgord. Located between Castera-Verduzan and Auch, LAVARDENS is home to one of the most impressive castles in Gers. As an original fortress, Château de Lavardens dates back to the 12th-century and is steeped in history. Big windows, magnificent walls and no less than 19 fabulous stone mosaic floors, an echo room, and art exhibitions make it a fascinating place to visit. Listed as an historic monument, it has seen many a battle and was rebuilt at the time of Henry IV. Several parts were never completed but renovation work is still

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OUT + ABOUT

SADIRAC

GRISOLLES ongoing. If pottery is your thing, a visit to the museum at SADIRAC in Gironde will definitely inspire you. La Maison de la Poterie includes exhibits of Gallo-Roman ceramics, pottery from the 14th to 19th-centuries, and a contemporary collection. You could even take in a workshop whilst you are there. Or why not taste some of the many wines available from the local châteaux such as Le Grand Verdus, Landereau and Farizeau. At only 14km from Bordeaux, it is also 8km away from the ancient Roman ruins of the Abbey of La Sauve-Majeure, a UNESCO world heritage site at La Sauve. Voted the favourite village by French TV viewers in 2012, the historic SAINT-CIRQ-LAPOPIE in Lot is a true medieval gem. Sitting 100 metres high above the river Lot, the

town itself is built around ancient, picturesque streets lined with artisan shops, artist galleries and cafés. Boasting 13 Historic Monuments, it winds down to the river with paved lanes, gothic buildings and fortified gates. A must see is the ornamental garden and exhibits of modern, fine and contemporary art at the Musée Rignault, and why not take a walk along the towpath nestled into the cliffs to its nearby port, Bougies. PENNE D’AGENAIS in Lot et Garonne is a gorgeous village with a clear Gallic origin, its name being taken from the Celtic word Penn, meaning mountain ridge. Still showing traces of several Roman villas it is now recognised as a “Station Verte” (nature-orientated) destination. Sat on the edge of the river Lot, it has stacks of architectural charm and can be recognised from

PENNE D’AGENAIS

some distance by the silver dome of the elegant Byzantine-Romanesque Notre-Dame de Peyragude basilica. A stroll through the old quarter will reveal narrow sloping streets, pretty houses and the Place Paul Froment which is ideal for a pit-stop. Nestled by the side of the Canal des Deux Mers, GRISOLLES in Tarn et Garonne is the ideal place for a relaxing stroll. Originally known as Ecclésiola (small church), and having survived invasions by the Francs, Saracens, Normans and Hungarians, it eventually fell under the ownership of the Saint Sernin Abbey of Toulouse in the Middle Ages. In the central square you won’t miss the metal hall built in 1892 which combines 32 cast iron columns with decoration in brick. Mosaics and Gallo-Roman artefacts can be found alongside sculpture and

art in the Musée Théodore Calbet with its colombage façade. Interesting architecture and strolls along the river Tarn await you at BUZET-SURTARN in Haute Garonne. The stunning medieval l’Eglise Saint-Martin is a must see with its incredible bell tower and diagonal vaults. Damon’s painting, Chemin de Croix, hangs here, and music lovers might want to take in the impressive organ above the main doors. Positioned on what is now the library wall, Vincentde-Paul's statue reminds us of days gone by when the tutor worked to pay for his studies at the University of Toulouse before being ordained as a priest in 1600.

BUZET-SUR-TARN The Local Buzz • January & February 2019

conception : CCI 87 - 2019 - crédit photo : Adobe Stock

Limoges has never been so close! LONDON STANSTED LONDON GATWICK Paris

Limoges

LEEDS / BRADFORD NOTTINGHAM MANCHESTER SOUTHAMPTON BRISTOL

www.aeroportlimoges.com

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Check out our website! www.thelocalbuzzmag.com Your one-stop shop for everything buzzing in your area – •  What’s On •  Business Directory •  Area information

Te •  Enter your business or event for free! •  Premium placement available

BR MO

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! Food & Drink

• Is this what you would call a Pâtisson? C’est ce que vous appellerez un pâtisson ? • I need a black truffle (Melanosporum), how much do you want for it? J’ai besoin d’une truffe noire (melanosporum), vous en voulez combien? • Where can I find fresh thyme, rosemary, chervil, parsley? Où puis-je trouver du thym frais, du romarin, du cerfeuil, du persil ? • Do you sell flax seeds and pine nuts? Vendez-vous des graines de lin et des pignons de pin ?

rigides la plupart/tout/une partie du temps.

dez-vous pour une révision de tondeuse s’il vous plaît ?

Finance

Sport

• Does your charity qualify for tax-deductible donations? Aurai-je droit à une déduction fiscale en donnant à votre œuvre de charité ?

• Do you sell the poles for Nordic walking? Vendez-vous les cannes pour la marche nordique ? • These boots are too big/ small/tight/loose/ heavy/light. Ces bottes sont trop grosses/

Hi, I’m Béa! Learn French with me!

petites/serrées/lâches/ lourdes/légères. • Do you sell tents, sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses? Vendez-vous des tentes, des sacs de couchage et des matelas gonflables ? • It looks like rain? Do you sell ponchos? On dirait qu’il va pleuvoir. Vendez-vous des ponchos ?

(You pronounce my name Bey-ya.)

Well-being

• I would like some almond oil, cocoa butter, shea butter. Je voudrais de l’huile d’amande douce, du beurre de cacao, du beurre de karité. • Which essential oils do you have? Quelles huiles essentielles avez-vous ? • I like peppermint, sandalwood, patchouli, bergamot, ylang ylang, rose, eucalyptus, rosemary. J’aime la menthe poivrée, le santal, le patchouli, la bergamote, l’ylang ylang, la rose, l’eucalyptus, le romarin. • I have aches in my neck, shoulder, back, head, wrist, ankle, toes, fingers. J’ai des douleurs dans le cou, l’épaule, le dos, la tête, le poignet, la cheville, les orteils, les doigts. • My joints are very stiff most/all/some of the time. Mes articulations sont très

• Is your organisation exonerated from inheritance tax? Votre organisation est-elle exonérée de l’impôt sur les successions ?

Gardens & Bees

• I would like to buy two wooden bee hives. Je voudrais acheter deux ruches d’abeilles en bois. • Are the hives complete with honeycomb frames? Les ruches sont-elles fournies avec des cadres ? • Do you have details of local seed associations please? Avez-vous des détails sur les associations de semences locales s’il vous plaît ? • Can I book my mower in for a service please? Puis-je prendre ren-

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a When you open the hive and see all those millions of bees in front of you it is truly magical. Not to mention the honey that you will be enjoying as your reward!

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

a Bee thing

HOMES + GARDENS

e asked experienced beekeepers to give us some tips about how to establish a hive and look after the bees. Jonathan and Anna Beaussire are based in Lot et Garonne and have been keeping bees since 2013. They also have a small herd of goats from which they make cheese, an excellent accompaniment to their honey. This is what they had to say: First of all, it is really important to understand that having bees is a bit like having a pet. Hived bees are no longer completely wild insects and, to a degree, will have been domesticated. As such, they require some care and attention in order to thrive. The best time to start your hive is in the spring so that the colony has time to build, increasing in number ready to store honey before the winter arrives.

The Kit

As a beginner, I would recommend that you start with two hives. If one of them has a problem, the second hive can come to its rescue. Designed to help you maintain the colony and harvest the honey easily, there are a variety of hives to choose from, including the man-made box sets and combination hives which are cylindrical in shape with a domed lid. In addition, you will need appropriate equipment to keep the bees happy, and you safe, when visiting and caring for the hive itself. Smokers are used to calm the bees when you are working around them. Gloves will help to avoid stings, and a few small tools will help you in handling the honeycomb frames more easily.

It is worth investing in the best quality equipment which will last for years. For instance, a good wooden hive should have a trouble-free 10-year lifespan and cost around €100-150. You will also need the smoking material and smoker at €200 or so, and bees at around €140. It is best to buy bees locally so that they are more familiar with the climate and conditions.

The Tasks

Beekeeping is all about knowing how the hive works, how to watch it and what to look for. What stage are the eggs and larva at? Is the Queen Bee well and happy? Do the bees feel stressed? Do they have enough to eat? Do they have a pest or disease issue and, if they do, what do you do about it? Whilst beekeeping doesn’t require a lot of time, some of the tasks are seasonal. The hive will need to be looked at a few times a year. In spring, when the bees have used up their winter stores or are establishing a new hive, for instance, they may need extra feeding. You will want to ensure a solid brood pattern, harvest the honeycomb, keep an eye on the Queen, and make sure that the number of bees in each hive are pretty equal so as not to overload them. Whilst there are countless books and websites, nothing beats learning alongside another beekeeper. If you can find one locally, it is well worth finding out how they manage their colonies. Alternatively, we are happy to help with training and hive development. Contact@miellerie-beaussire.fr

Anna in the honey workshop. The smoker.

Worker bees filling the comb with honey.

Collecting honey. Anna and Jonathan Beaussire. Learn how to keep bees in the Lot et Garonne.

The best time to start your hive is in the spring The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

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Labarthe, Baleyssagues, Duras 47120

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Win

COMPETITION

a night in a 4*Château

Built in the 17th-century, Château

Les Merles in Mouleydier, Dordogne, combines traditional elegance with contemporary design to bring both luxury and charm to your stay. As well as a hotel, it offers villa rental, restaurant and golf.

he winner of this fabulous competition will receive a night in a double deluxe bedroom complete with a 5-course dinner for two in the gourmet restaurant, a bottle of Château les Merles wine and breakfast in the morning. You can stay at any time, subject to availability, but July and August are already fully booked. To be in with a chance of winning this wonderful get-away, all you have to do is answer the questions below correctly. Answers can be found in this magazine which can also be seen at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online.

Enter online at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/win. Which type of equipment is used to calm bees? a. Fans b. Smokers c. Heaters

When using poles in Nordic Walking you are what? a. Slower b. Shorter c. More Stable

On a randonnée you should not carry more than how many kgs? a. 7 b. 8 c. 9

Cheese crisps are otherwise known as what? a. Biscuits b. Tuiles c. Cakes

Closing date for entries is 8 May, 2019. The offer value is around EUR 300. No refunds or exchange allowed. 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.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

BUYING & SELLING PROPERTY – RENTING & MANAGEMENT 39 Place Gambetta 24500 EYMET Tel: 0033 (0)5 53 27 14 34 Email: info@arcadimmo.com

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www.arcadimmo.com

Ref 73192 - 265 000 € FAI

Ref 73208 - 430 000 € FAI

Ref 73216 - 370 000 € FAI

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LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST

Thinking of buying or selling? Contact Leggett Immobilier, winner of ‘Best real estate agency in France’ six years running.

OUR PICK OF THE BEST PRESTIGE PROPERTIES (WITH POOLS)

Gers €140,000 Ref: 20766 This spacious character house lies just minutes away from Marciac with all its amenities.

Gers €190,800 Ref: 96953 Charming cottage near Plaisance, with pool lovely setting and no near neighbours.

Lot et Garonne €149,500 Ref: 77829 Sweet 2 bed house in a village near Aiguillon. Exceptional vews, pool, terrace and garage.

Lot €595,000 Ref: 57151 Two stone houses with a pool, over 1Ha of land and wonderful country views.

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

Agency fees included paid by the seller DPE: F

Agency fees included paid by the seller DPE: D

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

Tarn et Garonne €263,000 Ref: 91715 Tastefully renovated traditional 2 bed farmhouse with stunning rural views and a pool.

Gironde €245,030 Ref: 94514 Excellently finished 3 bed bungalow with pool. Close to Castillon la Bataille and St Emilion.

Dordogne €246,100 Ref: 96567 Two fabulous houses with bags of exposed features, 17kms from Le Bugue town.

Lot et Garonne €565,000 Ref: 73116 Historic château set in 4Ha of land with pool, pigeonnier and superb vista.

Agency fees included paid by the seller DPE: A

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: C

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer DPE: N/A

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

Tarn et Garonne €310,000 Ref: 80494 3 bed / 2 bath stone house dating from 1874. Great views, barns and garden.

Lot €118,810 Ref: 59364 3 bed / 2 bath, edge of a village property with garden and garage. 50kms from Albi.

Haute Garonne €201,000 Ref: 80800 2 bed apartment near skiing situated on a pretty boulevard in Bagnères de Luchon.

Tarn et Garonne €768,500 Ref: 94385 High quality property with gîte and large pool on 1.2Ha. 32kms from Agen.

Agency fees included paid by the seller DPE: D

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

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

Agency fees included paid by the seller DPE: D

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Gers €595,000 Ref: 85892 Two homes, one a luxury gîte, featuring 2 pools, outbuildings and 1.5Ha of land. 6% agency fees included paid by the seller DPE: C

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PROPERTY

Brexit: As it says on my mug, “keep calm and carry on”! ADRIAN LITHGOW, DIRECTOR, AGENCE ELEONOR, ISSIGEAC.

he newspapers have daily horror stories about the collapse of the UK after Brexit on March 29th, with food and medical supply shortages, logistical meltdown and crying in the streets. Only for us to be told, in the next edition, that it will mean a huge boost to UK finances as the country brokers new trade deals around the world, and rids itself of the yoke of EU serfdom. IS A CHANGE AFOOT ON THE PROPERTY FRONT? Whatever happens it is unlikely that one of the main reasons people come to live in France will change – the huge gap in property prices between the UK and here. It will always be an attractive proposition for people to sell up in Britain, pay off their mortgage and buy a French property for two-thirds or even half the price they would have to pay for the equivalent at home. At the time of writing, the UK Parliament is at loggerheads with the Government over “Deal or No Deal”. In either event it has been signalled, quite strongly, by the French Government, the EU and indeed the UK that nothing drastic affecting our lives here

If the past two years have taught us anything, it is that the predictions by experts are often not as accurate as they would like to think. will happen in the short term. While I am confident that the status of UK expats already established in France will remain little altered, the concern is how the post-Brexit landscape may change for those arriving after. Then there are suggestions that the pound could devalue by a further ten per cent, putting pressure on fixed incomes. Together this could see fewer Brits wanting to come here, with consequences for house prices. This is a situation no-one wants, be they English or French. As a notaire told me recently, if there is a big decrease in the number of British buyers he will have to close his business.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

So now for my own predictions.

1 UK buyers will be cautious until confidence 2worldimproves in the summer when people realise the has not greatly changed, and holiday makers House prices will remain stable as long as the Eurozone stays out of recession.

make their way back over the Channel.

pound will decrease immediately after Brexit, 3fore The increasing the value of your home in Euros, berecovering value later in the year.

The British will still love to come and live in France 4ernment for its lifestyle opportunities, and the French govwill act to ensure that they do.

In around a year and a half we will be wondering what all the fuss was about.

BANISH PAIN & L AROMATHERAPY Aromatherapy is a kind of alternative therapy used to heal, but what exactly do you do with the essential oils? Adding a few drops of oil to your bath will kick start your olfactory sense, enhancing circulation and improving the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s balance. Vapour inhalation is a great help with sinus or breathing problems. Just place a towel over your head to capture the aroma, add five drops to steaming water and inhale. If you have muscle, headache or stomach pains, add a couple of drops to warm water, soak a flannel, wring it out and apply to the tender area. Due to their high concentration, essen-

Health improvements can be achieved by a host of treatments. Here are three different methods that will ease aches and pains.

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WELL BEING

& LIFT YOUR SPIRITS tial oils are often supplied with carrier lotions such as shea or cocoa butter and almond oil. When mixed together they can be used to massage away worries, aches and pains. Peppermint will energise the senses, whereas lavender and chamomile will help you to relax. Bergamot is great for self-esteem, fatigue and stress relief. Feeling agitated or anxious? Try Sandalwood or Patchouli, and if you want to liven up your libido, opt for Ylang Ylang or Rose. Muscle aches and even migraines can be relieved with Eucalyptus and if you are going out to the pub quiz, you might fancy a quick top up of Rosemary to enhance the memory.

REFLEXOLOGY Vikki Stevens, a Mobile Holistic Therapist and Reiki Master near Lauzerte explains: The history of Reflexology goes back some 500 years when the Chinese practiced a form of pressure therapy, similar to Acupuncture. Ancient Egyptians were using similar methods in about 3000 BC, as illustrated in tomb drawings which show them holding and massaging the feet in a particular way. Credit is given to its re-emergence as a modern day therapy to Dr William Fitzgerald who worked in the USA as a medical specialist. He, together with Dr Edwin Bowers, published a book “Zone Therapy” or “Relieving Pain at Home” from which the modern day practice is founded.

KINESITHERAPY Otherwise known as movement therapy, Kinesitherapy uses muscular relaxation techniques, together with physical and passive stretching, to release any tension that may be restricting joint movement. Kinestherapists specialise in biomechanics and the musculoskeletal system to understand the cause of the symptoms and can help with much more than muscle pain or tension. Chronic pain can be eased as well as tendonitis, bursitis, sprains, lumbago, capsulitis, headaches and neuro or vascular symptoms such as numbness, loss of sensitivity and sciatic pain. At the first session they will analyse your posture, mobility and strength. This is followed by gentle movements to soften the tissues, using your symptoms as a guide in order to reduce pain and improve joint functionality. You will be sent home with specific exercises to ensure progression, giving you an active role in your own well-being.

Reflexology is wonderfully relaxing, restorative and nurturing, working on many different pressure points and zones across the foot. It can also be received through the hands and face. It not only calms the body and mind but it also slowly cleanses the system. Feeling peaceful and tranquil after your Reflexology session, you may feel like you

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Follow up sessions will measure progress and continue to develop exercises to further reduce symptoms. To avoid confusion, whilst both specialise in the science of movement, Kinesitherapists are different to Kinesiologists. Kinesiologists assess the risks of exercise to your health, provide guidelines for a healthy lifestyle and establish a training programme most suitable to your condition (heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure for instance.) They can also help with a weight loss programme, build muscle and prescribe exercises that are suitable for specific injuries or illness.

are floating off the couch. It can be helpful to people with chronic pain conditions and is particularly pleasurable after a long day on your feet. A Reflexology Therapy session lasts around 60 minutes including a full consultation on your first visit. It can be carried out at home or at the therapists location. 06 67 41 62 60.

ASK

ADVICE

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

Georgina R How does one go about meeting new people and making friends here? I have lived here for three months and am on my own so no mums at school gates to get to know, or partner to go out socialising with?

Hi Georgina As France is such a huge country, engagement with social media is one obvious way to find common interest groups in your area. Do try new things whilst recognising that, if you’ve never wanted to crochet in Croydon, chances are you probably won’t want to macramé in Monpazier. That doesn’t mean you can’t at least go and try; you might meet someone

with whom you click, even if you don’t want to return to that particular group. Also, bear in mind that when you do meet new people, it’s worth expanding your notion of what friends “should” be and try not to just find like-minded people but, perhaps, those with whom you feel a certain rapport generally. Some might be for a quick coffee at the local markets occasionally, others will be those who you would like to see more of and more often. Take a class, join an association, go to The French Buzz conversation venues, spread your net widely, dip a toe in unexpected waters. Settling in in any new country is a challenge so you need to keep your expecta-

Join a local French class to build your confidence and social circle

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ld cle

WELL BEING

How real are your fears? Writing them down can help.

tions realistic; you cannot expect to take to everyone and, of course, vice versa. Try not to feel rejected if something doesn’t pan out; regroup and keep trying.

Fiona W I am becoming very distressed with hunters near my land, the noise and the gunshots particularly. I know the chasse is important here and they have the right to hunt but I am surprised at how much I am upset by it. Can you suggest any coping techniques, other than moving out every weekend?

Dear Fiona I understand and agree that it can be very distressing, particularly when living a rural and quiet life. Firstly, perhaps some of your anxiety might emanate from the fact that you feel you have no control over it? Why not check the rights of your local chasse with your Mairie? Are they too close, when can they hunt, what rights do you have personally? This will make you better informed and be a positive action on your

part, with a certain amount of empowerment. More information here: Droits chasse - France (in French). That said, could this be indicative of other anxieties you may have? I recently had a client whose distress seemed to be centred on the noise element of the chasse. On further investigation, it was also about the feeling of isolation she was experiencing generally, exacerbated by the perceived threat. The news stories about chasse “accidents” can also be disturbing. These concerns need to be put into context before they can be overcome or eased. Write yourself a list: how real is the threat? What do you believe are the realistic consequences? Seeing this on paper will help you to realise that loud bangs are just that: loud bangs. Although troublesome, they are part of your new life in France and are highly unlikely to harm you. If you have a life concern that you would like to share, please write to Katie c/o buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com.

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

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

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.

EXTENDING THE RIDE SPORT

B Y JA S E A LEX ANDER , E XPERIENCED CLU B CY CLIS T

t’s that time of year again. The days are becoming longer and summer feels like it’s not too far away. One of the great things about cycling is that it really doesn’t matter what standard you are at to enjoy it. If you just want to go out into the country to see new things and go to new places, visiting by bike is a beautiful way to do it. To some cyclists the warmer weather can mean that all the hard work and long rides put in over the winter period are coming to an end. Now we can focus on convincing

Go a little further as you start to feel stronger

ourselves that those very expensive, new carbon wheels are worth every penny and will definitely make us go faster. To others it can mean contemplating digging the old trusty steed out of the barn and giving it a quick dust off. If it’s the latter, I would highly recommend taking it to your local bike shop for a quick once over, just to make sure your brakes and other components are working safely. Spring can also mean that there are still a few extra pounds hanging around following the festive season.

Luckily, cycling is a great way to lose them, and with many other health benefits such as lower blood pressure, cholesterol and stress levels, you will be benefitting from the pedal work in no time. The good news is that you don’t have to go over the top to gain those benefits.

As the sun comes out, Jase Alexander is back to tell us how to continue our journey on our bikes.

STARTING OUT First of all, just start to ride your bike, enjoy yourself, invite some friends to come along and, over a few weeks as you start to feel stronger, go a little further. During these rides just try to stay in a nice easy gear and get used to spinning your legs. You will find that speed and distance just comes naturally as your fitness starts to grow. It’s important to remember that as your kilometres increase, so does the need to feed your body. Even if you are trying to lose weight, once your rides are longer than an hour or so, you should start refuelling as you ride. Not only will you be able to ride for longer, you will avoid the dreaded “cyclist hunger” which, when you arrive home, will see you raiding the cupboards for anything you can lay your hands on. So

stock up on bananas and treat yourself to some energy bars, they both fit nicely in your jersey pocket and will make your ride even more enjoyable. Along with your food you should always try to stay hydrated. Even spring days can be hot so take water in your bidon and think about carrying a sports drink containing electrolytes for longer rides.

STRENGTH TRAINING When you are comfortable with longer distances and feel like you need to start training to improve your strength and fitness, you can start to integrate interval sessions into your rides. For example, make sure you are nice and warmed up on your bike, then put in 30 seconds of high

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A bit of fun will help keep you motivated

effort riding, followed by an easy one minute. Do this four times. Then 40 seconds high effort followed by one minute easy and, again, repeat four times. Remember that you need to work up to this kind of intensity as it is very demanding. If you need ideas for interval sessions, YouTube has thousands to choose from.

MOTIVATION It is at this point that motivation can sometimes become a bit of an issue so keep an eye on your progress and feel good about what you have achieved. A really easy way to do this is with a phone application called Strava. Once downloaded, it will map your rides, speed, calories burnt and other types of information

that will prove to be really interesting. You can also follow friends on Strava and see how they are doing on their rides but be warned, it can lead to friendly competition and be highly addictive! However, just as some of us like this kind of ride, others like something a bit different. Something a bit, well, painful. Cycling is a beautiful sport but, like any other, it can be cruel. You can have your best and worst days on the bike all in one weekend. You can take it easy or push yourself as hard as you can. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why people love it. For those who do love to push themselves hard, our region has plenty to offer. Whatever your goals, happy riding.

The Local Buzz â&#x20AC;˘ March & April 2019

COMPETING The road bike season is now well underway and, if you are looking for a good place to start competitive cycling, a Sportive could be ideal. The distances vary from 60 to over 100km but you can take them at your own pace. Just taking part and finishing some of these is a major achievement, and you will normally find a nice, welcoming atmosphere and even a couple of cold beers at the finish. For those who want even more of a challenge, there are well organised races right through to October but, as you must have a racing license to compete, you will need to join a Club. The races, which are usually very fast, are categorised by rider levels and can also vary from 60 to 100km. Amivelo is a great website featuring all the up and coming races as well as how to get there, distances and start times. So roll on those super sunny evening rides with friends, and those fast, painful race weekends.

SPORT

Walk the Nordic Way Linda Lewis is a National Coach for the International Nordic Walking Federation (INWA) and tells us a little more about the sport.

ou may have seen people walking with poles already and wondered what all the fuss is about, or you might feel like having a go but are worried that you won’t have the coordination. Well, the first thing is that it’s EASY as the correct Linda Lewis out for a technique (according walk, Nordic style. to the International Nordic Walking Federation) is based on the natural movements of walking, whilst also paying attention to your posture which most of us could do with!

Here are ten reasons to give it a go: 1. It helps weight loss you’ll burn more calories than walking at the same speed without poles as you are using more muscles. 2. The correct technique gives arms and shoulders a gentle workout - bye, bye flabby underarms! 3. When you plant the poles and push you are also engaging your abs imagine how many times you do that, even on a short walk. 4. The correct technique involves rolling through the whole of the foot and pushing through on

the ball of the foot. This is great for combatting circulation problems in the ankles and legs, and also helps to activate the glutes with each step. 5. Working out the foot and ankle muscles is useful in fall prevention - as they become older people tend to shuffle their feet somewhat. 6. Using poles means you are more stable and less likely to slip when it’s muddy. 7. Going up hills becomes a doddle with the poles as you are now in ‘four wheel drive’ mode; able

f you are recovering from breast cancer, have osteoporosis, are overweight, have diabetes etc., then Nordic Walking could be a great help. If you are a runner whose knees or back can no longer take the pounding but you still want a good cardio workout, then Nordic Walking is also for you, so why not give it a try.

to use your arms as well as your legs to climb. 8. Your heart beats slightly faster with the poles than it would walking at the same speed without them, so it’s a great way to increase your cardio activity. 9. As using the poles works the muscles in your arms, chest, abs, back, butt, legs and feet you are also working on strength, and you can increase the intensity as you develop your technique. 10. If you can walk you can Nordic Walk!

For more information about the sport and the Association go to www.inwa-nordicwalking.com Linda holds training sessions for people who might like to lead a group or simply develop their own technique. She can also help to set up walking groups. www.nordicwalking24.fr

The correct technique gives arms and shoulders a gentle workout

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SPORT

Randonnées can encompass relatively short walks or major routes of several hundred kilometres.

ou might decide to take in the surroundings of your favourite local village or walk part or all of the Camino de Santiago. Whatever your route, there are basic principles to bear in mind. Jenny Michell and Keith Pantlin describe themselves as a pair of ageing but energetic Australians and have been walking around different parts of France for nearly 20 years. “For us” they say, “the joy of walking in France is not so much in the wilderness areas but in the settled agricultural parts, with their farms, villages and historical ruins. This part of France is fabulous as the villages tend not to be spread too far apart.” As a pastime, randonnées are not only healthy but they are very relaxing. “One thing we notice about the long duration walks” Jenny adds, “is how our thinking changes. After the first few days we settle into a very simple, peaceful frame of mind, in which we appreciate little things like a drink of water, a rest under a shady tree, or a conversation with a farmer.” Every year, they use Géoportail, the website of the IGN (Institut Géographique Nationale) to map out a route of about 700 kms in a month, i.e. about 23 km a day. Planning is an essential part of the trip and involves much more than looking at paths and roads. Jenny explains “The best months are April to October but whatever the length of the walk, you need to take into account the daylight hours, the opportunities to stop and eat or take photographs

These boots are made for... and, of course, access to water. We have had a few close shaves when an expected bar or shop didn’t materialise on a hot day but cemeteries always have a tap for watering flowers. If staying overnight, bear in mind that you won’t want to be setting up camp in the dark. “The important thing is not to carry too much. Around 7kgs each is plenty for a long distance walk where you will need a tent, sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses and a change of clothes. Whatever the duration, you should always carry a plastic poncho in case of rain.” Apart from travel light and take enough water, top tips for a safe, enjoyable journey include buying boots on the big side and wearing extra socks to stop blisters. Take two credit cards, visit the Tourist Office for up to date information, trust your compass and believe in your route, beat the heat and set off early, be aware of half-day closing as well as opening hours on Sundays and Mondays and, last but not least, go West or you will have the sun in your eyes all morning. A wide variety of maps are available from the www.ffrandonee.fr website. The

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

shorter tracks are known as Promenades et Randonnées (PRs), with Grandes Randonnées du Pays (GRPs) being the longer tracks which loop around a particular area. Long distance walking tracks, the Grandes Randonnées (GRs), are nearly always on ancient cobbled roads, farm tracks, canal towpaths, abandoned railway lines or forestry tracks. www.walkinginfrance.info Jenny and Keith taking a well earned break in one of our rural villages.

PUZZLES

Crossword You may even be able to sit in the sunshine and complete this crossword outside! Shrug off those winter clothes, grab a cuppa and enjoy this warmer season. CLUES DOWN 1. the butterfly 2. the bee 3. the egg 4. the strawberry 5. the daffodil 6. the tulip 7. the grass 8. the rainbow 9. the spring 12. the puddle

13. the rabbit 14. the flower ACROSS 4. the bird 5. (the) Easter 6. the umbrella 10. the lamb 11. the asparagus 12. the seeds 15. the picnic 16. the chick

With special thanks to Puzzles to Print. www.puzzles-to-print.com. For the crossword solution go to page 65

Wordsearch Have fun searching! 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 and, just for fun, diagonally. The words you are looking for (but there are others) are: AROMATHERAPY SUN SMOKER GOAT HIVES GLOVES BEEKEEPING QUEEN WORKER HONEY CARHIRE FLEET VEHICLE

BREXIT GOVERNMENT FRENCH POUND EURO WALKING FROG RANDONNEE WATER HOLIDAYMAKERS TAP CEMETERY VOISIN

YLANG AROMA LIBIDO MEMORY MAT ALMOND IDEA IRIS ART INHALE BULB SMOKE PLUG

KEY HOSTA CUT SNOW SEED LEAP CHORE GREEN EARS

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HOLIDAY HOME WEBSITES 3 Fast, secure & reliable 3 Mobile friendly 3 Online booking & payment options 3 Fully customisable 3 Prices from €499 w pixelpoint.design c 05 53 93 38 43 email@ jonthecarpetman@gmail.com www.jon-thecarpetman.com

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The best place to get carpets and flooring for your French home! 26 Rue des Victimes du 3 août laminate and wood flooring, and LVT (luxury vinyl 33580 Monségur Carpets, vinyls, tiles) from leading manufacturers.

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Home visits free and without obligation in all of France You contact us - we come to you - job done! Or visit our new showroom, see website for details.

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Artisans & Services English Speaking AXA Agent in Duras Meeting all your insurance needs, explaining French systems & managing local claims directly with you

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Business Directory

Artisans & Services 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

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Did you know?

Since our launch last summer The Local Buzz has really grown, here are some buzzing facts: In print:

•  We now print close to 20,000 copies and you can pick up the magazine at over 700 distribution points! •  These include tourist offices, estate agents, supermarkets, hotels, cafés, bars, restaurants, market stalls, tourist hotspots, garden centres, Bergerac airport and other locations •  Or you can have it sent to you by post •  Want to increase your brand, product and corporate awareness? We have display advertising pages that can do just that! •  Or maybe you prefer to be in the magazine Business Directory – you can advertise for as little as EUR 30 per issue, just ask for details.

Online:

•  Our Business Directory and What’s On pages have over 15,000 sets of eyes looking at them every month and the magazine is read online every single day •  We now have articles on the website too and you can even buy books direct - our content is always growing •  Entering our prize competition is quick and easy •  Don’t forget to read the blogs – our fabulous bloggers cover everything from living in the region to vegetarian food, making soap and the health system.

Want to know more? Please send us an email at buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com 64

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“

Bee Heard

VIEWPOINT

“Well done! All of your hard work has paid off ” Becs S

It is great to hear that you are enjoying the magazine and website. Thank you for your continued support, it means such a lot to all of us. myself in your website book section. I was delighted to see Vanessa Couchman’s short stories amongst all the books. She is a local author whose work I admire and enjoy. Catherine F

• I discovered your magazine a few weeks ago and I loved the content. I think the idea is great knowing that the English community is wide in the area. Eva K

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• I regularly refer to The Local Buzz magazine for information and invariably find myself browsing the articles at the same time. This week I found

• I have recently returned home with a copy of your super magazine under my arm. I have been most impressed by the content. Edwina T

Crossword solution

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• Just wanted to say thank you for this wonderful magazine. First one I have found interesting enough to read cover to cover, that promotes events actually taking place locally to us and that isn’t just filled with advertising! A truly interesting read and can’t wait to start reading March/April issue. Marianne S • Well done this looks fantastic. Had a pretty thorough look over the website and everything works nicely and really importantly looks great. It’s a pleasure to look at. Graham H

• Excellent magazine full of a variety of interesting and helpful articles! I met a number of people who said it was just what was needed locally so good luck with future issues which I’ll look forward to reading! Angie C

Thank you for all your efforts! A really good magazine. Look forward to future issues. Beryl M

“

• Congratulations for your beautiful magazine. I was given the July-August issue at the Mauvezin tourist office. I like all the articles, they are both pleasant to read and informative. Béatrice G

Next Issue With several bank holidays in May and June and the Summer Solstice, we look at how to make the most of the sunny days and warmer nights.

• Entertainment: Making the most of music • Out and about: The route de Compostella • Well-being: Coping and recovering from illness • Food and Drink: Bank holiday food • Gardening: Seeds and Potagers • Sport: Tennis, Golf & Petanque • Property: Gite & property management

The Local Buzz • March & April 2019

Plus 7 Wonders of the Region, What’s On, Puzzles and much, much more

JUST DRONING

A tongue-in-cheek look at...

Leaping into

Spring

Here we go with my favourite time of year. S

pring and Easter are special, bringing new life to nature, and Easter eggs to the garden. Maybe we will even find the one that was unaccounted for last year! I doubt it, I think it was surreptitiously eaten - a bit like at pick-yourown strawberries. I have never understood why they don’t weigh the people before and after they go in, as well as the baskets! I can’t wait to see the Cranes flying in formation overhead, making their fabulous noise and signalling that warmer times are on their way. The blossom will be blooming, turning sleepy orchards into beautiful new prune and cherry bearing trees. As well as opening the pool, pruning the

roses and planting up pretty pots, it’s also the time for my best friend, the mower, to come out to play. If you’ve read any of my other Just Droning pages you will know I have a love-hate relationship with garden tools. Now the mower will truly be out in force as the grass will be doing its best to turn my lawn into a set for the next Tarzan adventure! From March to July, we can almost see the grass reaching up to the sky, only having had a trim a few seconds earlier. About 18 months ago I had a near death experience with my “agricultural quality” ride-on when my long cardigan became trapped in the blades and dragged me down. I flung

myself off, breaking my leg in the process and then had to literally chew my way out of the cardigan to free myself from the carnage. It’s a true story I promise. As I sat there, squashed between the mower and the fence, entangled in the brambles that had caused the problem in the first place, the neighbouring farmer went off for his lunch on his chuntering tractor and didn’t see or hear me. I live in the middle of nowhere, and it was around two hours before I was heard yelling for assistance. Help eventually arrived complete with a TV controller as the poor lady was in such a panic that she thought it was the phone! Anyhow I survived and now

every trip with the mower is treated like a military operation. Bottle of water, check. No cardigan or scarf, check. Mobile phone, check. Sturdy knife, check. I kid you not! My children have tried to ban me from using it but the grass grows so fast! I need a live-in mowing person. Speaking of which, I have a live-in frog, one of those cute, tiny bright green ones. He (I guess) is thrown out every time I see him but every day he finds a way back in. Is it frogs or toads that turn into princes? I have a similar thing going on with a toad down at the pool. When I can find the courage, maybe I will kiss them both!

Until next time . . .

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

The Buzz advert - Sue Cook - 190x277mm.pdf 1 15/06/2018 10:02:20

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The Local Buzz - March April 2019

Articles inside

It's a Bee Thing

Cycling and Hiking in SW France