The Local Buzz - Issue 7

Buzz The Local

Forthose those living, living, working oror visiting • Gironde • Dordogne • Lot et Garonne • LotLot, • Gers • Tarn et Garonne N.Haute Garonne For working visiting Dordogne, Lot et Garonne, Gironde, Haut Garonne, Tarn• et Garonne & Gers

JULY& AUGUST 2019

SMOKIN’ HOT

BBQ Food & Drink

FLOWER POWER

in the garden

NIGHT MARKETS & Open Air Events

MAKING THE MOVE FREE

I’m priceless

T

Summer The joys of

Q

15 PAGE WHAT’S ON GUIDE

IN THE POOL & ON THE PITCH

House Staging• Well-being • Seven Wonders • Local Entrepreneur

U N I Q U E M E D I E VA L S I T E F O R S A L E

Will you become the next ‘Chatelain of Cause de Clérans’?

Driving down the D36 you suddenly see the enormous keep towering over the village. The Château de Cause de Clérans (11th – 13th century) is a unique and historical place forming the centre of the village of Cause de Clérans, not far from Bergerac.

A peaceful location yet only 15 minutes drive to the airport and all other facilities. The restored ruin of the 30 meter high keep (the oldest medieval defensive tower in the Aquitaine), the walls of the original château, the reception hall and the chapel together enclose the garden and look out over the village.

The chapel is renovated into a comfortable living accomodation with three compact bedrooms and two bathrooms.

In the past years all walls have been consolidated and restored with much dedication, as well as the reception hall and the chapel – these buildings are ready for the next hunderd years and don’t need much maintenance.

A magical and inspiring place to write, to compose, to meditate, to relax completely, to enjoy as a private home, but is also perfect to share with others to use for concerts, exhibitions, receptions, photo/film shoots, for exclusive parties, as a wedding location ...

This well-known historical monument has been featured in magazines around the world.

This unique place is for sale and waiting for a new ‘Châtelain de Clérans’. If you are interested, please ask for more information: joris.vangrinsven@orange.fr or telephone +33 553 573 376 / +33 615 512 071.

€ 850.000

Hello from our Queen Bee

It’s our birthday! Wow, we can’t believe that we are a year old this issue. Thank you so much for continuing to read and support both the magazine and website. It means so much. We would also like to give a special thank you to all our contributors over the year. We hope you will agree that they have done a fabulous job.

It’s that time of year so we are highlighting night markets and open-air events and are also focussing on summer BBQ food and drink, as well as a vegetarian dish from our guest chef. What better time of year to meditate in the garden or consider ways to calm the senses and, for those who like to be a little more active, we include features on football and swimming in addition to cycling and, of course, a mention of the Tour de France.

In the garden we look at how to keep pests at bay, and ways to keep the garden looking lovely, always a difficult task with so much heat during the day. Our Local Entrepreneur feature visits a musical haven, and our property page considers ways in which to “dress” your home to maximise sales opportunities, so you are ready for the helpful advice in our article on moving!

Our Puzzles, regional What’s On pages, Seven Wonders, a fabulous competition and great reader offer are all here too. Enjoy and have a great summer!

Lesley Ashburner

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 • July & August 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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S T H G I L F C A R E G R E B FROM Ryanair Bristol Brussels-Charleroi East-Midlands Liverpool London Stansted

Edinburgh

Liverpool Birmingham

Transavia Rotterdam

Bristol Exeter

Flybe Birmingham Edinburgh Exeter Southampton

Leeds Bradford Manchester East-Midlands London Stansted London City Southampton Lille

Rotterdam

Brussels-Charleroi

Austria Lyon

Jet2 Birmingham ★ New Leeds Bradford Manchester

Croatia

BERGERAC Nice Montenegro

British Airways London City Chalair Lyon ★ New Nice ★ New

Portugal Algarve

Andalusia

Algarve Andalusia Austria Bulgaria Croatia Montenegro Portugal

More information

Follow us ! facebook.com/aeroportbergerac.dordogneperigord twitter.com/Aerobergerac instagram.com/aeroportbergerac/

Subscribe to our newsletter www.bergerac.aeroport.fr

Aéroport Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Route d’Agen - 24100 Bergerac - Tél. 05 53 22 25 25 - Fax 05 53 24 35 43 aerobergerac-bergerac@bergerac.aeroport.fr

Bulgaria

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 Editorial & Managing Director: Lesley Ashburner Production & Creative Director: Pamela La Forgia Distribution & Finance Director: Jeanette Hyde Art Director: Sarah Vernon Advertising: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Photography: Shutterstock or Jeff Ross unless otherwise stated

CONTENTS July & August Issue REGULARS 3 Hello 7 What’s The Buzz 8 The start of our 14page regional guide to what’s on 28 Gardening - Keep Blooming 33 Buzz Bits 34 Food & Drink 38 Seven Wonders 43 Buzz Words 60 Puzzle page 61 Business Directory 66 Just Droning

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Regular contributors: Katie Gardner, John Gilchrist, Sue Sargeant, Puzzles-to-Print Our thanks go to: our regular contributors as well as Edwina de Tonary, Sarah Day, Château Mont d’Onel, Dordogne Vineyard Tours, Jase Alexander, Fiona Page, Nick Street-Brown, Amanda Davis, Lee McNeal, Michael Rumsby, Sarita Cameron, Marie-Jo Dehaye, Ian Jefferies, Camille Naude, Latour-Marliac.

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

FEATURES 36 Guest Chef 40 Local Entrepreneur 44 Open Air Events 45 Night Markets 48 Making that Sale 50 Moving Thoughts 56 Like a Fish to Water 58 On the Pitch 59 Follow the Yellow Lined road

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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 danger

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

WELL -BEING 52 Ask Katie 54 Taking Some Me Time

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30 12

48

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PLUS… 32 Reader Offer 53 Prize Competition 65 Next Issue

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ET

5 53

Achieve an excellent education while becoming bilingual!

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• Guidance on higher education and careers.

• 300 m² more space since September 2018: enlarged and renovated premises, science laboratory and media centre.

• Extra-curricular activities, outings and after school clubs: music, robotics, chess, and French

www.bordeaux-school.com

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:

what’s the

BUZZ

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

• Arcachon, 13 July (33) • Journiac, 11 August (24) • Le Temple-sur-Lot, 28 July (47) • Alvignac, 21 July (46) • Eauze, 3 August (32) • Montbeton, 16 July (82) • Frouzins, 28 July (31)

Bourses des Collectionneurs

• Arès, 18 August (33) • Bassillac et Auberoche, 21 July (24) • Le Passage, 7 July (47) • Souillac, 8 August (46) • Fourcès, 21 July (32) • Puylaroque, 7 July (82) • Revel, 21 July (31)

Marchés Traditionnels

• Gujan Mestras, Wednesday (33) • Nontron, Saturday (24) • Casseneuil, Sunday (47) • Bretenoux, Tuesday (46) • Cazaubon, Friday (32) • Montech, Tuesday (82) • Muret, Saturday (31)

VIVE LA FRANCE! If you like fireworks there’s no better time of year than this, with all major towns and some villages putting on a real show for Bastille Day, France’s national day, on 14 July. It’s the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille fortress in Paris in 1789, which was a major turning point in the French Revolution. However, it is also the Fête de la Fédération celebrating the unity of the French people on the same day a year later. Vive la France indeed. Let the festivities begin!

GIRONDE

DORDOGNE LOT

T TARN et G GARONNE

LOT et GARONNE

GERS

ORTH NORTH HAUTE GARONNE

Le Tour de France Are you Buzzing?

If you have an event coming up, don’t forget that you can add it, for free, to our What’s On pages at thelocalbuzzmag.com

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

It’s the 100th anniversary of the Tours’ Yellow Jersey this year and a unique version has been designed for the winner of each stage. Striving to break records since 1903, this test of endurance and skill sets off from Brussels on 6 July. Following a day of rest, Stage 11 will see the peloton picking up the pace on a flat circuit of 167 km from Albi to Toulouse on 17 July. The next day, Stage 12 is arduous to say the least, with a 202 km mountain ride from Toulouse to Bagnères-de-Bigorre.

Who will have the speed and the strength to triumph? Why not saddle up and cheer them on! For details of the route and times, visit www.letour.fr

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GIRONDE

SURF’S UP

what’s the

BUZZ

The Lacanau Pro Surf Glisse Festival will be “catching some waves” from 11 to 19 August at Lacanau Beach with a non-stop programme of entertainment and surfing competitions. Welcoming surfers from around the world, it includes competitions for children under 14 on 11th and 12th, those with disabilities on 13th, and professional surfers

JOIN THE QUEST Tèrra Aventura, the treasure hunt and exciting family adventure, is now available in the medieval village of Gensac. Combining an enjoyable walk with discovering the region’s heritage and nature’s gems, the quests lead you to treasure. To reach your goal, you answer a series of riddles along a 1.5km course, which is perfect for travellers with small children or buggies. Based on geocaching, the game is free and available 365 days a year throughout our region. Download the app on smartphone via Google Play/ App Store (English available) or use a GPS and download the roadbooks on the Terra Aventura website. www.terra-aventura.fr

SUMMER VIBES

Vibrations d’Eté en Pays Foyen at Sainte-Foy-LaGrande is the 3rd Festival d’art Lyrique with six classical music concerts taking place between 11 and 24 July.

Special guests this year include Baritone Florian Sempey and Mezzo-Soprano Viorica Cortez. For performance and ticket information go to www.saintefoylyrique.net

BIKE & TRAIL A run, VTT course, gastro-

nomic food and wine tasting all combine to make the Spicybike-N-Trail des Côtes de Bourg, an unusual sporting event. Setting off on 14 July, it’s organised in partnership with VTT Gauriac and le Syndicat Viticole des Côtes de Bourg-ALBS Athlétisme. To take part or for details call 05 57 42 29 94.

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from 14th to 19th. Every day from 11:00 to 19:00, visitors can try skimboard, a surf simulateur, enjoy freestyle skate shows, and courses on yoga and fitness.

There will even be a 900m² skatepark for all the family.

Concerts with DJs and bands will also “pop up” each evening. For the full programme visit www.lacanaupro.com

Classic cars, tractors and a local fête

HISTORICAL NIGHTS Le Chemin des Mémoires is indeed going to be a trip down memory lane at Bazas from 9 to 11 August. Various entertainment, events, food and refreshments are taking place from 18:00 and the 1.5-hour sound and light spectacle starts at 22:00 every night, taking you back through 2500 years of history. Entrance is €9 and free for those under 10 years of age from www.troubadours-bazas.com/billeterie-2

Seven concerts, musical films, workshops, musical moments and public performances are planned during Le Festival Flam’ from 31 July to 11 August. Held across various venues in Saint-Christoly-de-Blaye, Gauriac, Blaye, Plassac, Bourg and Bayon, the festival also presents an opportunity to meet many of the artists.

For times and places visit www.festivalflam.fr

SWING ALONG SEA FOOD FETE The traditional Fête de l’Huître makes a welcome return with its 46th edition on 19 July at Andernos-Les-Bains.

From 19:00 to midnight you can try oysters, sausages, sardines, mussels and lots

of different scrummy desserts across each of the three evenings. Music will feature brass bands and there will also be a free concert each night.

05 56 82 02 95.

Total Art

The 28th edition of Libourne’s Fest’Arts steps onto the streets on 8 August and, until 10 August, will be featuring street theatre, song and dance, circus acts, choreographic theatre, pyrotechnics, guided visits, art exhibits, brass bands, operetta and, in the evenings, concerts on two nights and a DJ set on Saturday. For the complete programme and times go to www.festarts. com/programmation

RIDE ON

International Show Jumping is cantering into the ring from 11 July at La Citadelle in Blaye. Some 150 riders and 400 horses will be competing over 23 events in this four-day, two-star international competition. Sure to be an exciting weekend, it also features additional entertainment plus a variety of eateries and bars. www.jumpingdeblaye.fr

More than 100 musicians and singers will be performing at 19 concerts at the Andernos Jazz Festival from 26 to 28 July. Elephant Brass Machine, Test’Ut Big Band, Crawfish Wallet, Tuba Skinny, Hot Swing Sextet, J-Silk, Sebastien Areruti, Bordeaux Mass Choir and Cecil L Recchia are just some of the exceptional talent on stage. Swing dance workshops will also be available for those who want to give it a try. In addition, young musicians from the local Jazz school of music will be playing at 20:30 on 25 July. www.andernos-jazz-festival.fr

GIRONDE

FLAM!

LA MER

If you love the sea and all things seaside, there are quite a few “Fête de la Mer” on 15 August including Hourtin, Lacanau, Montalivet, La Verdon-sur-Mer, and LègeCap-Ferret on 16th. They are all in celebration of the sea and include music, danc-

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

ing, sea sports, swimming, fireworks and, of course, boat trips. The relevant tourist office will have all the details but don’t forget to take your cossie.

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BUZZ

Joust About Here’s something a little different. Every Friday in August from 21:00 you can see a spot of River Jousting on the Drone River in front of the Abbey at Brantôme. La Joute Nautique dates back to Egyptian times but, today, the jousters stand on a wooden platform extending from the front of a wooden boat. It’s a lot of fun for all the family. 05 53 05 80 63.

NOT A WORD!

The Mimos Festival in Périgueux from 23 to 27 July fills the streets with silent expression.

Combining mime and physical or burlesque theatre, it is the only festival dedicated to mime in France, and the main one in Europe. It features international circus act performers, clowns and dancers with more than 20 shows in each of the official and fringe programmes.

350 performers will perform in front of 80,000 visitors from all over the world. Nod your head if you will be there too. www.mimos.fr

DORDOGNE

what’s the

OUT OF THIS WORLD

The Festival Cultures aux Coeurs at Montignac welcomes 300 performers from across the globe, including musicians, dancers, brass bands, photographers, artists and film makers to make this a truly unique event from 29 July to 4 August. With around 25,000 festival-goers for the official programme, as well as concerts and workshops in the fringe programme, this exciting cultural extravaganza is celebrating its 39th year.

For details go to www.festivaldemontignac.fr

MAGICAL GARDENS Magical nights at Jardines de Marqueyssac are continuing with thousands of candles lighting the way and illuminating these stunning gardens from sunset until midnight every Thursday in July and August. Fairies will be dancing to piano and jazz

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

orchestras and a series of candle and shadow creation workshops have been specially designed for children.

Entry is €16 for adults and €8 for ages 10-17, free for those under 10. Reservations can be made online at www. marqueyssac.com

SCARE THE CROWS!

Le Festival des Epouvantails (Scarecrows) is an annual event that combines the making of scarecrows with displays of the imaginative and inventive creations, as well as music and dancing. A magnificent fireworks display will close the event. Held in Meyrals on 27 and 28 July, this fun festival is now in its 9th year and is sure to bring a few scary surprises – we are not necessarily talking traditional scarecrows here! www.epoufest.com

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DORDOGNE

GOING JAZZNUTS

Nontron Knives The first week of August will bring around 5,000 people to the streets of Nontron for the 21st annual Fête de Couteau. Famous for its knife industry, which is one of the oldest in France, a wide variety of stands will be showing pocket knives, knives for the kitchen, hunting, collecting or pure design pieces. Children can enjoy prehistoric knife and cave paintings or even take part in an iron-forging workshop and scrimshaw, an ornamental Inuit engraving technique.

Saturday night will see spectacular iron melting in the bloomer furnace. www. nontron.fr

Positive roots band

You don’t have to be nuts about Jazz to enjoy the Jazznuts Festival from 6 to 9 August in Auriac du Périgord. This year’s event is billed as having more surprises than 2018. The long list of artists was under wraps at time of going to press but keep an eye on www.jazz-nuts-festival-auriac.fr. It’s sure to be a cracking event!

Biga Ranx

Les P’tits Fils de jeanne

Fest’In Returns C’EST BEAU

Rock, reggae, folk, electro music and theatre make up the two days of the 4th Beau C’est Festival in Bosset on 16 and 17 August. Naya, Roundabout, Daguerre, Les Fatals Picards and Théâtre du Roi de Cœur are lining up to entertain you with their diverse range of musical and theatrical skills. For tickets go to www.assopasserelles.fr

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The vibrant Fest’In Riberac festival is back making some noise on 12 and 13 July. This year’s programme brings a mix of the best French artists including Les Ogres de Barback with their unique sound, reggae from Positive Roots Band and Alpha Blondy, Emir Kusturica and the No Smoking Orchestra with their Tzigane/country music, and sets from DJ So One, to name just a few. For details go to www.festin.org

VARIET Y IS THE SPICE… Clowns, comedy, jazz, guitar, theatre and song can be found at the Théâtre du Fon du Loup in Carves from 4 July to 5 October. The CMD Jazz trio will be joined by singer Isabelle Payen on 25 July, and the Buddy Jazz Club will be performing on 1 August. Johnny Makam, a

group of musicians performing songs reminiscent of the Orient and Balkans, will be on stage on 8 August, and the exceptional guitarist, Benjamin Bobenrieth, will be giving a dynamic rendition on 15 August. For full details and tickets go to www.theatrefondulop.fr

Isabelle Payen and Benjamin Bobenrieth

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: 7871-MO. 425,000 € HAI. DPE: Vierge Fantastic mill comprising a dining room with open kitchen, living room with mezzanine, 5 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms and 1 bathroom. A wooden 2-bedroom chalet with kitchen and living room. A large open barn with summer kitchen.

Workshop and storage. A 10x5 swimming pool with teak wood terrace.(6% fees inc)

Ref: 7901-IS 787,500 € HAI. DPE: D A stunning home in the South Perigord, with a large 5-bedroom main house, gite in the pigeonnier, barn with 5 loose boxes, an ancient mill and millpond, and a ruined chapel to heighten the romantic feel of this property. 12.5 hectares of land with a swimming pool.

(5 % fees inc)

Ref: 7902-VI. 149,900 € HAI. DPE: Vierge In the heart of a private residential complex, this stone house offers an entrance hall, fitted kitchen, living-room with wood burner and toilet, 2 bedrooms including one with en-suite showerroom + a bathroom. 2 private terraces, garden, parking space and co-owned swimming-pool.

(9% fees inc)

Ref:7878-EY.125,350 € HAI. DPE:Vierge Large house requiring renovation situated in the bastide village of Eymet. The house comprises a kitchen, sitting/dining room, office, 4 bedrooms, shower room and large attic. A two storey barn is attached to the house, which sits on a large plot of over 1/4 acre. Rare in Eymet!

(9% fees inc)

Ref: 7838-EY. 299,600 € HAI. DPE : D Pretty stone house with a good-sized family kitchen, utility room, large lounge with mezzanine, three bedrooms and two bathrooms plus the master has an en-suite WC and washbasin with place to incorporate a shower. ¼ acre garden with lovely views over the countryside and a small outbuilding. (7% fees inc)

Ref: 7899-VI. 299,600 € HAI. DPE: Vierge In a private, peaceful setting, this stone perigordine house comprises a living-room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bathroom and shower-room and a lovely covered terrace. The former barn has a guest house, storage space and a carport. On just over 1 acre of land with a 10x5m swimming-pool. (7% fees inc)

Ref:7847-MO. 215,000 € HAI. DPE: D Set on 1/2 an acre of land this comprises a living room, dining room with open kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom, shower room & garage. Covered terrace with fantastic view of the countryside. Only 9 km from Monpazier.

The property is in perfect condition and ready to move into. (7.5% fees inc)

Ref: 7733-EY. 189,000 € HAI. DPE:Vierge Stone house located in a quiet village, comprising a large, open-plan living area, four bedrooms, mezzanine and a bathroom with shower and bath. A terrace of about 40 m² overlooks a fenced garden of about 200 m² with a stone garage.

(8% fees inc)

CHATEAU DUCAL DE LAUZUN

For those living, working and visiting Gironde, Dordogne, Lot-et-Garonne, Lot, Gers, Tarn-et-Garonne and N Haute Garonne

about healthcare, places to go, living the dream, being a vegetarian in France and lots, lots more.

Magazine: What’s on round-up

ee bsite.

and unbiased articles from regional food and drink and finance to property, sports and well-being. Collect, read online or subscribe by post.

Visit this historic monument with its Renaissance wing, two exceptional marble fireplaces and Roman votive altar.

Guided tours from 7 July to 1 Sept, 2019, 10:00 to 12:00 & 14:00 to 18:00 Adults: €5, Children: €3 - Tour duration: 45 mins Last visits at 11:00 & 17:00 Group visits on request for 10-40 people at €4 pp, all year.

Contact Jean Paul Trilles 06 74 25 16 65 GPS: 44°37’44” N 0°27’38” E.

Website: Easy to use with regional What’s On listings, over 3000 Business Directory entries, Local Area Information, Books, Blogs, Articles and much, much more.

LOT ET GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

NOEMI COMES TO TOWN

Cellist Noémi Boutin joins Quatour Bela quartet.

BIG BROCANTE Featuring items from professionals, collectors and individuals, Duras is holding its Grande Brocante on 15 August. Stands will be filling the town centre with antiques, bric a brac, furniture and decorative items, etc.

Ideal for spotting that hidden treasure, the day will also include an exhibition of classic vehicles, street artists and art displays and, of course, music. Refreshments are available throughout the day. www.dacor47.com

Contemporary chamber music is the trademark of the accomplished and fascinating Quatuor Béla quartet of violin and cello musicians.

On 25 July they will be joined by celebrated cellist Noémi Boutin at l’Eglise de Laurenque at Gavaudun at 21:00.

Tickets are €18 and €5 for students. 05 53 01 25 19.

GRAND

PRUNEAU

MACABRE MACBETH World of Dance Folkloriades is presenting Les Festiv’ du Monde at the Stade de Rugby in Castelmoron-Sur-Lot from 26 to 28 July at 21:15.

This exciting spectacle promises to showcase dance and music from around the world. 2 and 3 day passes are available at €20 and €30, or daily entrance is €12, free to children under 12. Don’t miss the street entertainment and afternoon parades beforehand. www.facebook.com/Folkloriades

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Award-winning British theatre company, Antic Disposition, is returning for a 15th year from 31 July to 14 August with a bold production of Shakespeare’s drama, Macbeth.

This heady brew of greed, murder and dark magic will be performed in English in 12 remarkable open-air locations in regions 24, 46, 82 and 47, promising an unforgettable evening of theatre under the stars.

Tickets are priced from €20 to €40, and children 16 and under go free. For venues visit www.ad-tour.com

The Festival of Prunes comes to Agen on 30 August for three days in celebration of the region’s prune culture. You can taste prunes in all their forms, visit the gourmet market with regional produce, enjoy the concerts and street performances, and also take part in sports activities.

Fun for all the family.

www.grandpruneaushow.fr

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

CHIVALROUS DAYS

It wouldn’t be summer if we didn’t mention the fabulous Fête Médiéval at Monflanquin on 15 and 16 August. Now in its 29th year, it features parades, costumes, horses, tournaments, troubadours, minstrels and daring fire eaters. For the complete programme call 05 53 71 18 85. Before then, don’t forget Monflanquin’s Concerts au Village from 26 to 28 July.

For details email concertsauvillage@gmail.com

FESTA!

The Ferme de Souleilles will be putting on quite a day with Festa Occitana at Frespech on 9 August from 09:00 until late. Amongst other events, there will be a local produce market, a picnic, Occitan musicians and culture, demonstrations of ancient trades, traditional games, food stalls and, at 21:00, a concert and ball.

05 53 41 23 24.

WINE

WONDERFUL

Now in its 10th year, Cocumont’s Festi Vino is the place to discover the region’s passionate winemakers, and taste their wines. Not only that, but there is the “L’Invincible” obstacle course, a well-being centre, conferences, children’s games, a market with local produce, walks and concerts. Free all weekend on 26 and 27 July. 05 53 20 74 46.

Members of the Opéra’Azul Company will be performing extracts from operas by Mozart, Rossini, Gounod and Bizet at the Salle des Mariages in Fumel on 22 August.

Mezzo-soprano Catalina Skinner, Tenor Pierre-Emmanuel Roubet and Baritone Pierre-Yves Binard will be accompanied by Inessa Lecourt on piano. For the time and tickets, which are €20, call 06 85 34 86 48.

DAYS OF ART The 2019 season of Exposition d’Art at l’Eglise de Valette in Lougratte features a number of different artists throughout July and August. Oil paintings, photographs, engravings, watercolours, creative clothing, sculptures and ceramics are all featured on different days. Open from 10:00 to 18:00, the exhibition is free. For the full programme see the 2 April posting at www.facebook. com/EglisedeValette

ORGAN NOTES Les Heures d’Orgue is a collection of organ recitals which are being held every Wednesday evening at 17:00 at La Cathédrale Saint Caprais in Agen from 3 July to 28 August.

Sometimes joined by clarinet, flute, trumpet or vocalists, the free concerts will conclude with a visit to the magnificent organ itself. 06 11 95 87 12.

La Cathédrale Saint Caprais

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

LOT ET GARONNE

Viva L’Opera

HURRAY FOR CLAY

Created in 1985 by Bernard Palissy, la Foire à la Poterie de Saint-Avit has become one of the best ceramic fairs in the south west of France.

Selected by a committee based on the quality of their work, 40 ceramic artists will be displaying their pieces throughout the hamlet near Lacapelle-Biron on 11 August. 05 53 40 84 98.

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Musique Sacrée

Stunning in both its performances and its venues, the Festival de Rocamadour Musique Sacrée celebrates the world of voice and classical music with a series of concerts and recitals from leading artists. Held from 5 to 26 August, it has a full programme featuring diverse composers and instruments which can be seen at www.rocamadourfestival.com

by Patrice Kauffmann, acrylic neon paintings from Peter Klasen, oil on canvas

by Alain Bertrand, and metal sculptures from Fernando Costa are just some of the extraordinary works on display at Mecanica in Montcuq-en-Quercy from now until the end of the year. Organised

by Audrey Roccaro in partnership with the Montolza museum of Mecanic Art, this free exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 12:30 and 16:00 to 18:00. www.atelier-audrey-roccaro. com

LOT

what’s the MECANICA BUZZ Marble sculptures

OPERA FOR ALL The Saint-Céré Festival from 28 July to 13 August is a springboard for young singers, a place of experience and risk-taking in the field of opera music, and a vast forum with a large, mainstream audience. This year it includes four alternating lyric shows, two new creations and 40 events throughout Lot. Meetings with artists, projects and the exceptional heritage of the region (Castelnau Bretenoux Castle, Montal Castle, Cahors Castle, Carennac Cloisters) are part of this extraordinary lyrical mix. www.festival-saint-cere.com

SIM COPAINS

The Souillac en Jazz festival “Sim Copans” is back for the 44th time from 13 to 20 July and opens with Black Indians, a film set in New Orléans. There will be a walk, classic cars, a visit to the Grottes de Lacave, gospel and blues at the library, an exhibition and a night tour, all accompanied by jazz artists.

The last three days will bring performances by bands such as the Filibusters from 10:00 to 20:00, followed by concerts from 21:15 by, amongst others, the Avishai Cohen Trio. www. souillacenjazz.fr

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

17

LOT

GO THE BLUES! This is a must for Blues fans.

Now in its 38th year, the Cahors Blues Festival returns from 12 to 16 July with even more outstanding artists such as Blues Bones and Bo Keys.

The semi-final and final of the International Mississippi Blues Trail Challenge are at the weekend, followed by concerts. “Le blues dans la ville” will bring music into participating bars and restaurants on the 13th, and a conference on the 16th looks at the music and songs of native Americans and the origin of the Blues. www. cahorsbluesfestival.com Don Bryant & the Bo-Keys

jessie Lee & The Alchemists

Axel Bauer

18

BIKE AND HIKE MEDIEVAL

TIMES

Discover the beautiful roads of the Lot and Pays de Figeac at the 19th La Vélotoise. Organised by champion cyclist, David Moncoutie, this combined cycling and hiking event starts with a group departure from Place du Foirail in Figeac at 08:45 on 4 August. Incorporating two cycling circuits of 150 and 109 km, it also includes two hiking routes of 68 and 32km. For details of routes and registration go to www.lavelotoise.fr

Montcuq-En-Quercy-Blanc goes back in time from 26 to 28 July with its second Medieval Festival. Starting with a free concert at 20:00 on the 26th, the next day brings troubadours, jugglers, acrobats, fencing, jousting, children’s events, a music concert and fireworks. On Sunday, the village will present a medieval market and varied entertainment from 11:00.

06 75 99 30 27.

AT THE WHEEL

POLYPHONIC

Chamber music as well as traditional, religious and polyphonic music can be enjoyed during the 5th Festival Polyphonies en Bouriane at Milhac on 5, 6, 13, 21 and 27 July. Performances by the Choeur de Chambre de Limoges, La Tribu, Ardalh, Avà Corsica and Trio La Soubirane bring variety to each of the five events. Held at the Eglise Notre Dame de Milhac, tickets are €15 for adults and €7.50 for children under 10.

05 65 41 28 92.

It’s A Classic

Five diverse concerts make up this year’s ClassiCahors Festival from 22 to 31 July with vocal, piano and chamber orchestra performances as well as the Orchestre National du Capitole de Toulouse. Les Artistes du Festival will also be presenting an homage to the great Michel Legrand. For tickets, times and dates visit www. classicahors.com

As anyone who has ever tried their hand at turning the wheel will know, pottery takes a certain skill.

This will be on show at the 28th Foire de la Poterie on 18 August at Uzech from 09:00 to 19:00 with workshops and demonstrations. Pots of all kinds will also be on display and stalls will be selling pots for all occasions.

06 14 70 96 91.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

JUST KITCHENS www.justkitchens.fr

364

n e , o ”

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

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

Interested in hearing more about our kitchens and services?

OPENING HOURS:

TWO LOCATIONS:

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

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

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

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

Tel: 05 62 58 03 64

Email: justkitchens.fr@gmail.com

www.roots-shoots.fr Tel: +33 (0)5 58 97 71 03 Mobile: +33 (0)6 81 32 83 24

Tel: +33 (0)5 58 97 71 03 Mobile: +33 (0)6 81 32 83 24

• Want to work in property ?

Lantern lit tour of Puy• Resident in Lot, Lot et Garonne or Tarn et l'Evêque.

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• Vialex International, established over 30 years in the area, are recruiting independent agents.

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KAREN S BRAITHWAITE

Lantern lit tour of Puy-l’Evêque At sunset, follow your guide, Virginie Tonel, and discover the medieval city illuminated by lanterns.

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Adults: 6,5€, accompanied Wednesday 31 July children from age 12 to 17: 4€, 7 and 14 August children under 12: free from 21:00 to 22:30 Tel: +33 (0)4 68 47 05 44

Mobile: +33 (0)6 04 14 51 57 Information & reservations: Office de Tourisme Lot-Vignoble +33 (0)5 65 21 37 63 This tour has a capacity of 40 people so reservations are required

GERS

ON YOUR GUARD

what’s the

BUZZ BRIT ART The 20th Exposition des Artistes Anglais opens on 22 July until 4 August at Espace Saint-Michel in Condom.

Founded by Marian L’Estrange in 1999, it provides a platform for British artists, talented amateurs and trained professionals to show their skills, as well as contributing to the cultural life of Gers. Open daily from 15:00 to 19:00, the exhibition is free. For future participation, contact organiser, David Blackburn dkbmab@ hotmail.co.uk

Glory Be

All the way from New York, the Glory Gospel Singers are set to enthral their audience at l’Eglise Saint Esprit in Lectoure on 27 July. The uplifting performance, which starts at 21:00, features songs full of passion, love and inspiration for their deeply rooted beliefs set within the culture of American gospel. For tickets call 05 62 64 00 00.

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You’ll think you’ve gone back in time to the 17th-century if you go to the 8th Festival d’Artagnan in Lupiac on 11 August. From 10:00 to 22:00, there will be displays of workmanship, Baroque music, fencing (of the com-

bat kind), street theatre, a military camp, costumes and, amongst other things, food for musketeers and peasants as well as a market.

Entry is €8, free for those under 12. www.dartagnanchezdartagnan.com

THE BIG ONE!

Jazz in Marciac returns from 25 July to 15 August with huge names such as Jamie Cullum, Sting, Gregory Porter, George Benson, Beth Hart, The Rosenberg Family Project, The Jacksons and over 50 other well known artists appearing at the L’Astrada and Chapiteau venues.

On the 14th and 15th, the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville will be jumping with different musicians representing all genres of jazz. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most famous jazz festivals in France, it’s right on our doorstep! Details from www.jazzinmarciac.com and tickets from www.fnac.spectacles.com

On guard!

FOR LOVERS OF BACH Celebrated artists such as violoncelliste Anna Brikciusová, organist Iréna Kosikova, and violoncellist František Brikcius will be performing at the free Gers Bach Festival in honour of the 334th anniversary of the birth of Johann Sebastian Bach. Various dates, locations and times can be found at www.musicalesdescoteaux.fr

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Celebrating its 26th year, the Afro-Cuban latin music festival, Tempo Latino, returns with another high quality international programme from 26 to 29 July at Vic Fezensac. Combining both free and paid concerts, as well as workshops for dance and instruments, the festival opens with Who’s the Cuban, Bigre! and Kassav on the Friday, and closes with Cimafunk and Alexander Abreu y Havana on Sunday. In between, there are all types of Latino artists performing mambo, funk afro-tempo, salsa and other pulsating rhythms. Three days and three nights of varied music that is sure to have you dancing. www.tempo-latino.com

WHAT A LINE UP If we said line dancing and rhythm guitars, would you think of Country Music? You would be absolutely right to, and the Country Festival in Mirande from 12 to 14 July will be just the place to experience it! As well as 13 country music concerts there will be American motor bikes and cars, cowboys and Indians, lasso and archery plus dance workshops. For headline acts, specific events and times go to www.countryinmirande.com

GERS

IT’S IN THE STARS

HELLO LATINO

The international Festival d’Astronomie is one of the largest scientific events in Europe and it takes place, from morning until night, in Fleurance from 2 to 9 August. In addition to a science village which is open to everyone at the Moulin du Roy, the event looks at astronomy for young and old alike and includes 150 events. For the complete programme go to www. festival-astronomie.fr

IT’S ALL ABOUT BRASS The addition of three new permanent volunteers has meant that the 21st edition of the Cuivro Foliz at Fleurance will, indeed, take place from 19 to 21 July, and it’s scheduled to be bigger and better than ever. As well as a fanfare of brass, around 5,000 visitors will be enjoying concerts, street musicians, food and dancing.

If you join them, don’t forget to visit the boutique and pick up some Cuivro souvenirs. www.cuivrofoliz.com

Astromony for young and old alike

World Class Arias

An open-air opera performance at Château Lacoste at Lupiac welcomes three world class opera singers at 19:00 on 21 August. Helen Miles, a regular at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, is joined by worldwide performers, David Kirby-Ashmore and Ione Chadwick, for an evening of Verdi, Purcell,

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

Bizet and Mozart. Whether you are new to opera or are already a fan, you will be in for a real treat. Tickets are €15 from 06 77 29 87 16.

21

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Beautiful frameless glass fencing for pool safety & wind protection Design and installation service in the UK and France Avoid the €45,000 fine. Compliant to AFNOR NF P90-306

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.

Espace

Points de Vue

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.

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

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.

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.

2019

Lauzerte(82)

www.La-Belle-Maison.com

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

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

artpointsdevue.com 25/03/2018 17:20:06

POINTS OF VIEW

You might witness the making of the world’s longest braid of garlic at the Fête de l’Ail at Lomagne on 21 July at 14:30. In honour of its 25th anniversary, the town is going for the Guinness Book of Records! For the rest of the day, visit the stalls, find out about the region’s special white garlic and enjoy a range of foods and other spectacles, including a garlic peeling race at 16:30. You can also try out Pan Tintat, bread rubbed with, you guessed it, garlic! www.club.quomodo.com/fetedel-ail

July’s exhibition organised by the Art Points de Vue Association in Lauzerte includes an interesting range of disciplines and materials. Pascal Jacquet and Laurence Valade both work in paint and ink, while Martine Venant is a ceramisist, and Zarno works with modelling clay. On 1 August the exhibits change and include a photographer, 6Col, a collagist, and two painters Victoria Milroy and Paul Teyssier-d’Orfeuil, a promising student at the famous Beaux Arts in Paris and the only non-professional artist of the current season.

For full details visit www. artpointsdevue.com

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

TARN ET GARONNE

CLOVES GALORE

what’s the

BUZZ

It’s Medieval

Caylus will be going medieval on 27 July from 09:00 to midnight. As well as a medieval market there will be lots of activities and events for all ages, including dancing. To reserve for the medieval banquet at 20:00 and/or make the most of the day by hiring a costume, contact jacqueline.ateliercaylus@gmail.com

WALKING

TOUR Why not take a step back in time with a guided walking tour, in English, around Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val. Discover how people lived and worked, how their lives were affected by war, religion, and the forces of nature over 1,000 years of history. Every Tuesday at 10:30 from 9 July until 10 September. www.tourismesaint-antonin-noble-val.com

23

TARN ET GARONNE

HIT THE

ROAD

La Course de Côte returns to Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val on 15 August, taking over the Route de Caussade (D958) until around 18:00. Once the drivers and their cars have been checked at the Place des Tilleuls, qualifying will take place from 09:00 to 12:00, with the actual race starting at 14:00. Two shuttles will be leaving the Place to go to

spectator points at 12:30, and back again at 18:00, ready for the awards ceremony at 19:30. Entrance is €8 and free for those under 12. www.actumecanique.fr

CYCLOSPORT

FIND THE HIDDEN TREASURE This game of logic and observation at Sénéchaussée, Lauzerte will be great for your French! The idea is that you find a script written by your grandfather. Legend has it that there is hidden treasure and you are in the right place but only have 60 minutes to find it. Working as a team of 3 to 6 players, will your powers of deduction add up to success? For details and reservations: www.jevisiteavecsandy.com/ visites-deacuteteacute.html

QUERCY WINE The 23rd Fête du Vin des Coteaux du Quercy takes place at Castelnau Montratier on 10 August from 10:00 until late. Taste the region’s wines, learn about l’oenologie (the science and study of wine) plus there’s an organised walk from the church at 09:15. As well as facepainting, inflatables and other workshops and activities, there will be food on site and music by Orgues a Gégé, Berzinc and The Bawling Cats. Apéros will be served at 18:00 with music from Los Dos and a concert

by Combinacion Salsa will kick off at 21:00. www. vins-coteaux-quercy.fr

24

ESCAPE ROOM

Go Extreme Living up to its name, the 18th Festival Extréme at Valeilles includes an exciting array of extreme sports such as BMX, Jetski, Flyboard and Freestyle Grasstrack.

This all-action event takes place from 19:00 to 02:00

on 19 July and from 16:00 to 02:00, with the addition of a pyrotechnic show, on 20 July.

Tickets are €7 on Friday and €11 on Saturday, free for those under 12, and refreshments are available on site. www.extreme-session.com

The Championnat National Cyclosport will be taking place on 12, 13 and 14 July, starting in Beaumont de Lomagne and passing through Sérignac and Esparsac. Welcoming athletes from all over France, the event is expected to attract around 3,000 spectators and includes two circuits, one for juniors and one for adults. Riders will saddle up and leave from the Collège Despeyrous where a sports village will offer a variety of activities as well as local produce. For more information visit www.facebook.com /Ufolep82/videos/ 279834089245994

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 Avocats’ 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

To the moon and back

what’s the

BUZZ SARDINE CRAZY This may sound fishy but it’s sure to be a sardine packed couple of days at Massabrac en Fête. Doubles Pétanque is being played from 19:30 on 12 July, followed by a meal and dancing until late. Then, on 13th, there’s a welcoming aperitif at 11:00, triples Pétanque at 15:00 and Sardinade, the sardine feast, at 21:00 and fireworks before the DJ rocks some tunes.

Places are limited so reserve quickly on 06 77 30 48 79 or 06 85 38 34 26.

THE MASTERS Baroque music from Vivaldi, Bach and Delalande takes centre stage in Saint-Exupère Church in Toulouse on 13 August at 20:00. Bringing together choir and orchestra as well as soloists, this awe-inspiring production by Stéphane Delincak highlights three classical masterpieces.

MOVIE

TIME

Outdoor cinema is a big thing in Toulouse during the summer months. La Cinémathèque de Toulouse brings films like Barbarella, Robocop, Dirty Dancing, Blade Runner, Gravity, French Connection, Thelma and Louise, and a host of French titles such as Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob and César et Rosalie to the rue du Taur throughout July and August. Pull up a deckchair and a blanket and enjoy. For complete listings and ticket prices, including multi-film reductions, visit www.lacinemathequedetoulouse.com

26

Stéphane Delincak

VIVA ROMA SHOW

Villa Gallo Romaine at Montmaurin provides a fascinating insight into Gallo Roman life and architecture and, on 14 July, is holding a special day full of shows and demonstrations from 09:30 to 12:00

and 14:00 to 18:00. Tickets are from €3.50. Why not take a look at the extraordinary exhibition of sculpture

by Jean-Jacques Abdallah before it closes on 27 July? www.montmaurin.fr

Supported by around 50 international scientists, including Nobel prize winners, and hosted by Cité de l’Espace, “Année Lune: On the moon again?” is zooming into Place du Capitole in Toulouse on 12 and 13 July from 18:30.

See the Moon live, discover its craters, and the landing sites of the Apollo missions.

Plus, there’s a whole programme of events – who said the moon had no atmosphere!

If you can’t join them in Toulouse, use your own telescope where you are and share the wondrous event with passers-by. www. onthemoonagain.org On 21 July, la Citéde l’Espace will also be holding a Moon Party from 10:00 to 23:30 with films and events around the moon landings on 21 July 1969. Tickets from www.cite-espace.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

PRIX Long live the 80’s If you missed the ‘80s music in France you can catch up at Absolument 80 in Montbernard on 24 August. With a meal at 19:00, the concert starts at 22:00 and features such stars as Jean-Luc Lahaye, Caroline Loeb, Jackie Quartz. Tickets for the meal and concert are €25 by reservation before 22 August, €32 otherwise. The concert alone is €20, reduced for those under 12. 06 32 63 19 93.

A variety of organ concerts will be taking place throughout the summer at Cintegabelle. These include an organ recital and reading on 21 July at 16:00, Barbara Hendricks with “The Road to Freedom” at 20:00 on 25th, and a trumpet and organ recital by Bernard Soustrot and Jean Dekyndt on 4 August at 16:00. www.orguescintegabelle.festik.net

The Comminges Grand Prix trilogies of 1929, 1939 and 1949 are being re-run at the Musée du Circuit Automobile at Saint-Gaudens from 4 July to 31 August, at least in film format. The museum is open from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 18:00.

05 61 79 34 25.

N. HAUTE GARONNE

GRAND Musiques au Pluriel

TASTY

A tribute to Steve Reich

With music, handi-

Hot Moves PIANO PIANO The Festival Piano aux Jacobins is playing throughout July and August in the fabulous setting of the refrectory at Couvent des Jacobins in Toulouse. Piano Piano is an international tribute to the music of American composer Steve Reich and the choreography of Anne-Teresa De Keersmaeker. Two pianos will be making wonderful music together. www.jacobins.toulouse.fr

The second O Toulouse Bachata Festival returns to Hotel Palladia, Toulouse, on 12 to 14 July with dance workshops, parties and shows from the hottest instructors and DJs. You can find out more about this sensual, rhythmic dance from the Dominican Republic, and see a video from last year, at www.facebook.com/events/320476112018520/

crafts, wine-tasting, gastronomic delights, a concert, an exhibition, a fair and a trade show, Fronton is holding the Saveurs et Senteurs extravaganza from 23 to 25 August. Variety-hall music is also on the bill at this free event. www.fron-

Artists Edwin and Dakota

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

ton-saveurs-senDJ Face B

teurs.fr 27

Keepthrough Bloomin g the summer Coping with the heat in summer, is one of the things that makes gardening really interesting and very rewarding.

BY SUE SARGEANT, PASSIONATE GARDENER, NOVICE WRITER

T

here’s no doubt that this year’s weather has posed a few challenges in the garden. Here in this part of France spring came early and gave an opportunity to sow seeds in mid-February, but a cold spell in March slowed the whole process down. A sharp frost in early May found us searching for fleece to protect our plants which, thankfully, all survived.

We send our congratulations to Sue for her Open Garden Day on 5 May which was a huge success and raised €600 for charity, despite the weather which was very cold for the time of year.

Her garden is now open all year by appointment, for details go to www.opengardens.eu, reference 180326.

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

HOMES + GARDENS Deadheading will encourage new flowers

Flowers Galore

It is almost taken for granted that July and August are hot and dry so planting with this in mind is a must. Here are a few tips to give you the best chance of hanging onto your summer blooms.

DEAD HEADING will extend the flowering period for most perennials, Roses and Geraniums. Also, cut back early flowering hardy Geraniums to encourage repeat flowering.

Some shrubs can show signs of stress by WILTING, particularly if they have soft green leaves that have put on a lot of early spring growth. Reduce

the size of the shrub by trimming some of the branches.

This will improve the overall performance of the shrub in dry conditions.

Apply a MULCH around the base of shrubs, either after watering or after rainfall.

Try to avoid PLANTING shrubs in the summer months. It’s better to plant in spring and autumn when the roots will establish much better in cool, wet soil.

Move CONTAINERS to a shady corner for respite from the sun and group together for watering, especially if you are away from home for a few days.

Move containers into the shade

Apply a mulch to maintain moisture

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

Thinking Ahead

Whilst enjoying your garden during the summer months it can be hard to become motivated to plan for next year, but this is a perfect time. Take a look around the garden and see what is looking good and working well for you.

For instance, which shrubs should be moved because they have grown too tall?

It’s time to divide the Iris if they have stopped flowering. (These should be divided every three years.)

It’s also time to order spring flowering bulbs. Growers do run out of stock so place your order online for autumn delivery. l Bare root Roses are best planted in November and/ or December. However, it’s a good idea to see them in full bloom so visit gardens and nurseries during the summer to view them at their best. Many specialists will offer advice on the best Roses for our climate. I have found the paler shades more suitable for full sun and, after around three years of settling in, they are a great addition to the garden. l When thinking about planting for autumn colour, Nerines are a wonderful addition to the garden, either in containers or in the ground. Remember to leave the tip of the bulb slightly above the soil and plant in full sun. The perennial Asters and Sedum Autumn glory are another welcome arrival in the autumn garden. l Lagerstroemia trees are the most wonderful tree for the summer. Every year I plan to buy one but never seem to do it. The flowers are at their best in July and August but the bark is very tactile all year round. You

Perennial Asters brighten a corner Plant Nerines now for Autumn colour

will see them in shades of pink, white and mauve in many public spaces in France. l Now is the time to collect seeds from Perennials such as Gaura, Sissirynchium and other varieties of summer flowering plants for next year. You can sow Gaura in summer and over-winter the seedlings for planting out in spring. l Make sure you have plenty of home-made compost for autumn by turning your heap and keeping it wet to ensure it’s ready for October mulching. l As the birds are no longer nesting, now is a good time to shape hedges, and let more light into established hedges to promote new growth.

Mid-summer flowering tree Lagerstroemia

29

Living with

Nature

HOMES + GARDENS

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It’s no surprise that those who are keen gardeners like Sue also love wildlife. Here she highlights how gardens and wildlife (including pests) can live in harmony to create a perfect place where plants thrive and pests survive.

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www.skyinfrance.co.uk

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species you could: he challenge is not an l Leave some areas “au easy one and there will naturel� to allow wild always need to be comproflowers and mises. Here are some ideas Tel: +33 (0)5 58 97to71flourish 03 Mobile: +33 (0)6 81 32 24 insects to83 hide. to help meet the “visitors� l Plant flowers and shrubs half way. that are particularly attracFirst of all, fencing is a must tive to bees and butterflies to keep the “bad guys� such such as Echinacea, Verbeas Sanglier (Wild Boar) and na Bonariensis, Cerinthea Blaireaux (Badgers) out of Purpurea, Nicotiana Fragrant the garden. These animals Cloud and Viburnum Oculus, will certainly rotavate your Spirea and Pyracantha. garden if left unchecked. l Stagnant water is a Chevreuil (Deer), in particuperfect breeding ground for lar, love to eat roses and mosquitoes. Use a pump to will make a meal out of your keep water flowing in ponds vegetables. and fountains.

More welcome visitors might l Log piles are ideal for be the birds and, the more insects and other small trees there are in and around animals to hibernate. Learn the garden, the more birds to love insects by adopting a you will have. The trees companion planting scheme. provide safe landing sites, l There will be more about protection from predators, the scheme, together with and perfect nesting places. avoiding problems associatThe thrill of a garden full of ed with pests, diseases and wildlife is not to be missed disorders, in the next issue. and to extend the range of

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Created in 1875, Latour-Marliac in Le Temple-Sur-Lot is the oldest water lily nursery in the world and one of Lot-et-Garonne’s most visited historical tourist attractions. Monsieur Latour-Marliac’s colourful hardy water lilies were made world-famous by the Impressionist painter Claude Monet who ordered them for his new pond in Giverny in 1894. If you visit for lunch at Café Marliacea you will receive a free kir for up to two people, plus a 10% discount on plant purchases in the nursery. Alternatively, order hardy or tropical water lilies online and save 10%. The offer is valid 1 July to 31 August with the code LM1875. For park entry details and restaurant information go to http://latour-marliac.com

Visit Latour-Marliac for a special discount in the nursery, or buy water lilies online

Enjoy a free kir when you visit for lunch

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NEWS

NOTEW

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

A few news snippets of interest to our region

INNOVATIVE TAX CUTS

NO DEAL?

We have no idea if this will still be current when we go to print.

The British Embassy in Paris has published an unofficial translation of the French government’s decree that explains how British citizens living in France can apply for French residency if there is a no deal Brexit. So, just in case, you can read it at https://drive.google. com/file/d/1xSJgvB_6vhvTKbsenu2kFLbC5zyQJrFr/view

In a speech to the National Assembly the French PM, Edouard Philippe, set out the priorities ahead of the next election in three years time.

Amongst the highlights was a reduction in income tax by three points for

the first income tax bracket, the intention to scrap taxe d’habitation for millions, cuts to tax for middle-classes, reduced unemployment benefits to encourage a return to work, and no increase to the retirement age of

62 (although there will be incentives to work longer).

As well as a target of 100% on plastic recycling, he said 30,000 nursery places would be created so that single parents who wanted to could go back to work.

Voice over

Can you imagine talking to your food mixer in the same way that you do to Amazon’s Alexa?

Apparently that’s the plan. A food mixer launched in June, for example, can access recipes online via the internet using “smart technology” but, unbeknown to consumers, it has a “secret” microphone. Alarm systems and other devices are also going the same route, incorporating these hidden “accessories” ready for the technological breathrough when they become voice controlled. Now that’s progress!

WINNING ENTRY

We know that lots of people are reading the magazine online from both within and outside our region. Thiery Lenoir, from Hérault, was selected by our computerised draw as the winner of our March/April competition. We gave him the good news and he was delighted, saying “Yes! A dinner/night at Chateau Les Merles in Mouleydier! What a wonderful gift! Thank you!” Have a great time Thiery!

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

33

BBQs are the order o FOOD + DRINK

Who doesn’t love a BBQ, especially with inspirational, market fresh food Established in 2016 by Lee McNeal and Michael Rumsby, Le 1500 in Saussignac serves largely organic fare, including vegetarian and vegan dishes, prepared daily.

Inspired by seasonal choice, the use of precision weighing scales is a rare event in a kitchen where intuition and personal flavour preferences lead the way.

All recipes serve 4, and make sure the BBQ is searing hot.

BBQ Harissa Steak Served with a Chunky Salsa of Griddled Pepper, Tomato, Orange & Feta 600g Sirloin steak 2 tsp Harissa paste 2 Purple garlic cloves 1 Red & 1 yellow pepper 2 Beef tomatoes 1 Large orange, peeled Lemon juice to taste A handful of basil leaves, torn 250g Greek feta, crumbled 2 tbs Yoghurt Sel de Guerande, cracked pepper Salad leaves Black rice and green peas add colour

34

METHOD: Smother the steak in harissa, add chopped garlic to taste, marinade overnight. Chop the tomatoes and peppers into large chunks, sprinkle with olive oil and season to taste.

BBQ the peppers, turning them every few minutes.

Remove the peppers and add them to the tomatoes, drizzle with lemon juice, add orange chunks, Feta and sprinkle with basil.

Sear the steak on all sides until blackened, rest it for five minutes before slicing.

Arrange on leaves, drizzle with yoghurt, add salsa to one side.

Seared Tuna in a Lemon & Dijon Sauce with Black Rice & Garden Fresh Peas 400g Fresh tuna steak 1 Lemon (juice & zest) 1 tbs Dijon mustard 600ml Heavy cream 1/2 White onion 1 Garlic clove finely chopped 1 Shot of milk 1 Knob of butter Salt & Pepper to season 4 Pea pods 200gm Black rice Fresh dill METHOD: Sweat the garlic and onion in a heavy bottomed, buttered pan.

Once translucent add the cream, mustard, and lemon juice (to taste). Season. Add a shot or two of milk until a perfect sauce consistency.

Blanch the pea pods for 30 seconds. Carefully remove the string from the top of the pod downwards, fold open and set aside.

Sear the tuna for 30 seconds each side, remove and slice width ways.

Pour the sauce into a bowlshaped plate, add a black rice quenelle or round, arrange the tuna and top with the pea pod. Garnish with a dill frond.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

a

d

of the day

Modern bright wines

and delicious wines like these!

Spice up a vegetarian BBQ dish

Warm Charred Carrot, Fennel & Asparagus Salad with Spiced Maple Yoghurt (vegetarian)

METHOD: Trim the greenery and scrub the carrots, cut in half lengthways and blanch

www.le1500.rocks

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

I love the bold flavours of a “Barbie” with the punchy marinades, tongue-tingling salsas, the charred bits, yoghurt dressings and crispy, fruit-laden salads. What better than the wine on your doorstep at your BBQ? The vineyards where regions 33, 24 and 47 meet are in my neck of the woods, so here are the wines we enjoy with smoky, marinated, crispy treats from the chargrill.

Château des Eyssards produces Adagio des Eyssards, a clean, gently buttery Chardonnay, with a subtle pear nose perfect with seared fish, garlicky prawns and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Château de Fayolle brings a pale straw-coloured champagne-style Blanc de Blancs, with a zingy, pink grapefruit nose and gentle bubbles.

Great as an aperitif and delicious with charred peppers and vegetables. The Naked Vigneron produces organic wines with the philosophy “to keep everything natural,

PHOTOS: LE 1500

6 Different colored carrots with leaves 2 Fennel bulbs A handful of asparagus spears 1 tsp Ground turmeric 1 tsp Fennel seeds 1 tsp Cumin seeds 1 tbsp Maple syrup 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar 2 tbsp Olive oil 300g Yoghurt Salt and Pepper Fresh dill fronds 500g Rocket

for 8 minutes until cooked (not limp). Trim and quarter the fennel bulbs, keeping any fronds. Marinade the carrots and fennel with the turmeric, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, maple syrup, vinegar and olive oil for at least two hours or overnight.

Using tongs, pick the vegetables from the marinade and BBQ (fennel needs slightly longer), turning until chargrilled and cooked. Remove and cool slightly. Grill the asparagus, allowing the entire spear to blister and blacken.

Combine the marinade and yoghurt and spoon two helpings onto a plate. Sprinkle with rocket and place vegetables on top. Season and garnish with fennel fronds.

Wines for punchy BBQ flavours never dressing our vines in anything other than the bare essentials”. Their 2016 Barefoot Merlot couldn’t be more artisanal; the nose is blackberry jam and a hint of smoky cedar, balanced with great acidity and dark chocolatey tannins. The winner of the Coup de Coeur as the best vineyard for wine tourism in the Bordeaux region was the Talented Mathieu Crosnier, former young winemaker of the year, who crafts modern, bright wines at Domaine du Grand Mayne. The 2018 Sauvignon Semillon brings delicate fruitiness with white nectarine, tamed honeysuckle and lasting minerality, with a silky mouth feel. Equally, the barely salmon pink-coloured 2018 Rosé offers a quenchingly-packed raspberry palate.

The superb 2016 Réserve Merlot Cabernet has aromas of petals, ripe purple fig and warm oak and a velvety texture that partners steak, sweet sticky ribs and charred vegetables.

John Gilchrist is a former UK Sommelier of the Year and winner of the Mondavi award for the best wine list in the world. A seeker of unknown wine 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 and Wine Pub of the Year. www.lescaulins.com

35

Risotto FOOD + DRINK

with a difference Colourful, fresh tasting food for enjoying in the summer sun

N

ick Street-Brown is Head Chef at Château Rigaud and has given us his recipe for a delicious Beetroot Arancini. Ideal for vegetarians, it is a feast for the eyes as well as a great tasting dish. Serves 4.

36

BEETROOT GEL 200ml Beetroot juice 2g Agar Agar Heat juice and Agar Agar, whisk until simmering, strain into a bowl and refrigerate.

Once firm, purée until smooth.

CANDIED WALNUTS 500g Sugar 500ml Water 150g Walnuts 2L Oil for frying Heat oil to 180°C in a big pot.

Bring sugar and water to a simmer in a saucepan, add walnuts and simmer gently for 45 mins. Strain. Fry walnuts in two stages until deep brown. Place on a baking tray, removing excess oil.

PICKLED BEETROOT & RADISH (prep 24 hours ahead) 10 Radish

1 Beetroot, peeled and finely sliced 250ml White wine vinegar 200g Sugar 100ml Water Heat vinegar, sugar and water until sugar has dissolved, chill half of the liquid. Add beetroot to the hot liquid, simmer for two minutes. Remove from heat, chill. Combine liquids and radishes. Leave to sit for at least 24 hours.

GOAT CHEESE MOUSSE 150g Goat Cheese 75ml Cream Salt Add goat cheese and cream to a blender and purée until smooth, season to taste, set to one side.

1 tsp Black pepper ½ tsp Salt 1 tbs Black sesame seeds 1 tbs Sesame seeds Heat everything in a frying pan over a low heat until toasted. Set aside. www.chateaurigaud.co.uk

Try Nick’s fabulous Lamb Rack with Spiced Aubergine, Tomato, Goat Cheese and Crispy Chickpeas recipe.

You can find it in Articles/ Guest Chef at www. thelocalbuzzmag. com

PHOTOS: CHATEAU RIGAUD

BEETROOT ARANCINI 100g Arborio rice 500ml Beetroot juice 1 Red onion, diced 2 Garlic cloves, finely chopped 200g White breadcrumbs 4 Eggs 150ml Red wine 50g Butter 50g Parmesan Bouquet Garni In a saucepan, add a glug of olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft, add rice and cook for a minute. Add the wine, cook until nearly evaporated, add the juice a ladle at a time. Stir until the rice is soft and the liquid has evaporated, turn the heat off and stir in the butter and parmesan, season the risotto to taste, chill. Roll into 15g balls, coat in flour then egg, then breadcrumbs.

Repeat, then place in fridge/ freezer until needed.

DUKKAH 1 tsp Ground cumin 1 tsp Ground coriander

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Les Cavales 47120 DURAS

TĂŠl : 05 53 83 72 47

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

SHOP Monday to Saturday from 9h to 12h30 and from 14h to 18h30

VISIT & TASTING Every Tuesday and Friday at 11am July and August.

Some of these villages may be more hidden away than others. Wherever they are, they are well worth a visit and reveal moments in history as well as incredible sights.

7 WONDERS BEYNAC-ET-CAZENAC

SAINT-JUSTIN

OF THE REGION Designated one of the most beautiful villages in France, BEYNAC-ET-CAZENAC in Dordogne is home to a stunning château, said to be one of the most authentic and best conserved in Périgord.

Carved out of rock and sitting 150 metres above the Dordogne river, the 12th-century fortress boasts an A-list of visitors including Richard the Lionheart, Eleanor of Aquitaine and Simon de Montfort during the Hundred Years War. It also offers a magnificent view from the top of the medieval keep over the “valley of five châteaux”.

SAINT-JUSTIN in Gers was a place for both food and shel-

ter during the often treacherous pilgrimage to St Jacques de Compostela in medieval times. Today the pretty little village, which sits on the top of a hill at the site of an ancient fortified abbey, is proud of its “façade occidentale” church, its natural water fountain, the 13th-century point of entry and, most of all, the fact that it still offers visitors a heartfelt Gascony welcome.

The imposing, fortified Château de Tastes, with its panoramic views and incredible oyster fossils dating back 22 million years, awaits you at SAINTE-CROIX-DU-MONT in Gironde. Or why not visit

the church, best known for its curious, ornate stone entrance with its rope-like features. Recognised as an historical monument, the portail is the only part of the original Romanesque church still standing. The rest of the church was reconstructed at the end of the 19th-century in an impressive neo-Gothic style.

Well away from light pollution in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy, in the “triangle noir de Quercy”, the nights at CARLUCET in Lot give professional and amateur astronomers the most magical view of the stars and planets. By day,

SAINTE-CROIX-DU-MONT

CARLUCET 38

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

OUT + ABOUT

PLAISANCE-DU-TOUCH

BEYNAC-ETCAZENAC H

SAINTE-CROIXDU-MONT H

H CARLUCET SAINT-ETIENNEDE-FOUGERE H

H VERFEILSUR-SEYE

H PLAISANCEDU-TOUCH

H

SAINT-JUSTIN

pretty cream coloured medieval houses with their red roof toppings adorn tiny streets leading to a beautiful hilltop church. Nearby, why not stop and see the 15th-century windmill, Le Moulin a Vent de Lacomte.

As a “Village Fleuri”, SAINTETIENNE-DE-FOUGERE in Lot et Garonne is often adorned with flowers and makes for a pretty stop when travelling in and around Villeneuve Sur Lot. If needed, watering is easily taken care of with the

village’s natural “source” and, whilst having a wander around, take a look at the ancient lavoir and imagine it as a fully functional laundry area. The 11th and 15th-century church and the statue of Madonna and Child are also not to be missed.

Created in 1250 as a Bastide town by Alpohonse de Poitiers, brother of Louis IX (Saint Louis), VERFEIL-SUR-SEYE in Tarn et Garonne has been rebuilt more than once over the centuries. Today, the pillared

Hall, which was reconstructed in around 1887, and the Church of Saint-Pierre-èsLiens are definite attractions.

A must see is the 17th-century gilded wood altar and tabernacle from the Abbey of Beaulieu which features the arms of Abbot Pierre Anne Dionis and is dated between 1690 and 1739.

Documents can trace PLAISANCE-DU-TOUCH in Haute Garonne back to 1164, but it really made the history books when it was

transformed into a Bastide in 1285 by King Philippe III’s official “Bastide builder” for the Toulouse area, Eustache de Beaumarchais. The town has not one but two historical monuments; Eglise SaintBarthélémy with its impressive façade and belfry, and the 18th-century brick bridge.

Take a relaxing break by the Lac François Soula or, for something more “wild”, why not visit the African Sarafi park.

VERFEIL-SUR-SEYE

SAINT-ETIENNE-DE-FOUGERE

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

39

H

aving given herself a year to find a house with the potential to run a business, Fiona Page of La Balie in Salles, Lot et Garonne actually found the ideal property in just one weekend. Deciding what to do with it, in terms of something more than rentals, took slightly longer.

Fiona tells us “With the right ideas and by targeting a specific audience, you can not only create a niche market, you can also bring people from around the world, all year long.”

The idea takes root

Fiona Page welcomes guests to her courses from around the world

“Combine your passions and your interests”

40

When Fiona found the house she knew she wouldn’t find anything else that was so perfect or with so much potential. Set in a beautiful location it was already a gîte business with three converted cottages which were adequate but nothing special.

“I took a two month sabbatical from my financial services company in the UK and spent the summer learning how to run the rental business”, she explains. “I knew that I wanted to create a business but what exactly? The property is very rural and I was mindful that maybe there wasn’t enough to draw people here.

Equally, I wanted to do something where people would come regardless of the weather or time of year, and which was more than a rental business. Then it came to me, why not combine my skills and love of music, cooking and keeping fit into a luxurious place to stay whilst offering high standard courses?”

Taking shape With her ideas well and truly focussed she started the renovation. Every gîte was given an upgrade with new decoration and en suites in every bedroom (12 in all).

The existing pool was closed and two new ones were built, one to suit the 16-guest capacity, and one for her home. A multi-purpose studio was then built before she gutted her own house. As incredible as it may seem, the work took just seven months using a team of local builders.

She then had to find at least 16 pianists (8 per course) for the first two piano courses led by a concert pianist she knew in the UK. She did, thanks to strategic marketing. Alongside her own piano, she hired a magnificent Steinway model D Concert Grand for the studio, a piano for each gîte and a couple of keyboards (8 in all).

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

A Musical Haven

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR

There are thousands of gîte businesses in this part of France, so how do you stand out from the crowd?

The studio Steinway model D Concert Grand

Flourishing Three years later, La Balie offers five weeks of piano courses with 40 pianists coming from as far afield as Barbados, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Utah, Germany, Sweden, Holland and the UK. There is a tremendous amount of repeat business and other courses on embroidery and yoga have also been added. Virtually full for the rest of the year, a new yoga course starts in September.

When asked about their success, she replies “All the courses are led by experts in their fields, leaving me to handle logistics, time-tabling and taking care of the guests.

There are the gîte rental guests who tend to want their privacy, whereas course guests need looking after 24-hours a day.

As all meals are served from my house, guests often wander in and out, eat in

the garden and sit around chatting, creating an informal and friendly atmosphere. We are serious about the work we do on the course but, when work is done, we are relaxed and like to have fun.”

The Gîte Business Running a gîte is a very tangible and rewarding business where you can see people enjoying themselves. Being interested in people, wanting to provide a service and being sensitive to their needs is as vital as differentiation.

Fiona adds, “There are thousands of gîtes out there so it is essential to be unique, to offer something out of the ordinary or to follow a theme that links to who you are as a person. You also need to be deter

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

mined and competitive, with knowledge of how to run a business. The guests see this lovely environment and have no idea of the incredible amount of hard work that goes on behind the scenes. They don’t see you loading up the bins to take to the déchètterie or scrubbing the bathrooms, it really is never ending so don’t underestimate the amount of work involved. The bureaucracy was daunting at first but I soon found an English speaking accountant who was able to offer guidance on the infrastructure.”

Does she have any regrets? Interestingly, she couldn’t think of a single one. www.labalie.com

41

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Trustpilot - 9.8 / 10 Excellent Rating Mike and Dianne are Canadian and travel around Europe by housesitting

We find great housesitters and pet lovers – That’s what we do. Our sitters look after your property and pets, and they offer their time and experience for free. Everyone wins!

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It's a bit of a leap of faith having someone you don't know in your house looking after your "little people" but Lamia and the team work hard to make sure that everything is in place and to give advice as and when needed. We weren't disappointed and we will definitely keep using them – Lisa Ali, Pet Owner How you benefit as a home and petowner Our membership offers access to a secure network helping you find suitable checked sitters. We hide all contact details. You post an advert ahead of your travel dates, we publish the advert then housesitters apply.

You can view their profiles and chat with them before you accept an applicant. Need a housesitter? Get in touch. House-sitting is a win-win for both parties, free house and petsitting, and the checked sitters get free accommodation!

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FRENCH LESSON

Buzz Words...

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

Sport

What time is the peloton due to come through?

A quelle heure le peloton doit-il passer ?

Who is wearing the yellow jersey?

Qui porte le maillot jaune ?

I would like to buy a couple of pool floats Je voudrais acheter des flotteurs de piscine Where will I find men’s/ women’s/children’s swimming costumes?

Où vais-je trouver des maillots de bain pour hommes/ femmes/enfants ?

Does your football club have men’s and women’s teams?

Votre club de football a-t-il des équipes masculines et féminines ?

Which league does your football team play in?

Dans quelle ligue joue votre équipe de football ?

Food & Drink

I am looking for turmeric, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, red wine vinegar, fresh dill, basil, purple garlic cloves Je suis à la recherche de curcuma, graines de fenouil, graines de cumin, vinaigre de vin rouge, aneth frais, basilic, gousses d’ail violet.

Do you stock black rice?

Avez-vous le riz noir ?

I would like to try an organic wine?

Je voudrais essayer un vin bio ?

Do you have walnuts/radish/ beetroot?

Avez-vous des noix/radis/ betteraves ?

have more energy/increase my creativity J’ai besoin d’une pierre de guérison pour m’aider à être calme/relax/être moins stressé/réduire la tension/avoir plus d’énergie/augmenter ma créativité Which water do I need to purify this stone?

De quelle eau ai-je besoin pour purifier cette pierre ?

Do you offer meditation or mindfulness courses?

Offrez-vous des cours de méditation ou de pleine conscience ?

Gardening

Which plants are best for full sun?

Quelles plantes supportent pour le plein soleil ?

Where are your hanging baskets?

Où sont vos suspensions ?

Do you stock fish and water lilies for the pond?

Stockez-vous des poissons et des nénuphars pour l’étang ?

Chauffage central/pompe de piscine/fosse septique/le toit a x ans/vitesse à large bande I need boxes for books/fragile items/storage J’ai besoin de cartons pour les livres/articles fragiles/ stockage

furniture Les coussins/ tapis/ rideaux/ éléments décoratifs/ ustensiles de cuisine/ lampes/ meubles extérieurs Central heating/pool pump/ septic tank/the roof is x years old/broadband speed

Hi, I ’m J u Lear n Fr les! with ench me!

(You don’ th t e ‘s’.

)

pron

ounc

e

Property

I think my pool has a leak Je pense qu’i y a une fuit à ma piscine Cushions/rugs/curtains/ decorative items/kitchen utensils/lamps/ outdoor

Well-being

I need a healing stone to help me to be calm/relax/ de-stress/reduce tension/

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

43

OUT + ABOUT

Experience the great outdoors!

the best open air events! joy en d an r he at we er m m su e th of Make the most

H

ere we give a hint of what is on offer but there are so many more on our website. l Open air cinema and DJ sets are what L’Eté de Musical Ecran in GIRONDE is all about. Screening films such as The Amazing Nina Simone, MIA and Bob Marley, there’s also a chance to (re)visit the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival. For details of DJ’s, venues and times visit www. bordeauxrock.com. l Award-winning British theatre company, Antic Disposition, returns for a 15th year from 31 July to 14 August with Macbeth. Performed in English in 12 remarkable open-air locations in DORDOGNE as well as Lot, Tarn et Garonne and Lot et Garonne, it promises an unforgettable evening of theatre under the stars. www.ad-tour.com.

Festiv’Azul by the lake at Cancon in LOT

ET GARONNE presents a series of concerts from 23 to 25 August with a variety of artists performing a rich programme of Boogie, Swing, Soul and Latin. For details go to www.festivazul.net l The 4th International Le Temps des Guitares festival opens at the open-air theatre in Puy l’Eveque, LOT from 24 to 27 July, showcasing flamenco, baroque, classic and contemporary guitar. See how guitars are made, listen to poetry with guitar and enjoy local wines and food. www.letempsdesguitares.com l It doesn’t come more open air than this! Les Moissons d’Eté takes place in a clearing in the wood at Domaine des 1000 Chênes, Termes d’Armagnac, GERS, from 30 July to 3 August. Spectators sit on straw bales in a semi-circle around the stage under a large oak tree. Food is available beforehand and the evening ends

with music. www.lesmoissonsdete.com l The first weekend of August welcomes the Festival des Musiques Epicées at Saint-Aulaye, TARN ET GARONNE. Afro-cuban and Latino music brings the terraced gardens of the château alive with big name and regional bands. Workshops allow you to try your hand at music whist enjoying local and exotic spicy specialities. www.musique-epices.com l Two festivals in and around Toulouse bring concerts and music from around the world to N. HAUTE GARONNE from now until 28 July. Féstival Toulouse d’Eté opens on 4 July in a diverse range of City locations. www.toulousedete.org. The 23rd Festival Convivencia plays out on the banks of the Canal des deux Mers.

For dates and venues, some of which are open air, visit www.facebook.com/pg/ ConvivenciaFestival/events

Picnics at a heritage site, concerts by a lake, on the beach, in a field or in a town, theatre in the grounds of a château, outdoor cinema or opera ….. It’s all happening right here in this fabulous part of France and can be found online at https://www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/whats-on/ Plus, don’t forget those fabulous firework displays in major towns and villages on 13 and 14 July!

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www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

!

OUT + ABOUT

GirondMonedays: 19 July to 23 August

Dordogne

August Taussat: onth July & day of the m on M t gust 1s Au s: Ailla July to 20 Tuesdays, 30 : on st ili gu Em Au t Sain July to 15 nesdays, 14 ed August W : & on ly im Ju Blas ednesdays, W : oc éd M olyto 29 August Saint-Christ sdays, 4 July ur Th e: nd ra a-G 9 August Sainte-Foy-l s, 12 July to Louis: Friday t in Sa gust Au et d 16 Brau s, July to illon: Friday st Ca et s et Cast , 23 August ret: 26 July Lège-Cap-Fer & 16 August & 19 July, 2 Pellegrue: 5 reworks) July (with Fi st Valeyrac: 19 ly to 24 Augu rdays, 27 Ju tu Sa n: éo Cr August : 6 July & 31 Ludon-Médoc 7 July Rauzan: 6 &

Beaumontois en Périgord: Mondays, Ju Bergerac: Mon ly to 9 Septem days, 5 July ber to 26 August Couze-et-Sai (Quai Salvette nt-Front: Mon ) days, 1 July Saint Estèph to 26 August e: Mondays, 1 July to 26 Veyrines de August Domme: Mon days, 1 July Eymet: Tuesda to 2 Septembe ys, 25 June to r 27 August Le Bugue: Tu esdays, July & August Villefranche du Périgord: Tu esdays, 9 Ju Thénac (Châ ly to 10 Sept teau de Poni ember ss ea u): 17 July to Nontron: Thur 7 August sdays, 11 Ju ly to 22 Augu Saint Cyprien: st Thursdays, 4 July to 5 Sept Sarlat: Thursd ember ays, 27 June to 29 August Belvès: Friday s, 12 July to 23 August Brantome: 12 , 26 July & 9, 23 August Sigoulès: Frid ays, July & Au gust

Summer Night markets Dine and dance the night away at

our region’s fabulous night marke

Tarn et Garonne

Lot et -BGiraonro: Mnonndaeys, July & August

Bourg de Visa: Tuesdays, 16 July to 27 August St-Antonin-Noble-Val: 16, 24 July, 8, 14 August Beaumont de Lomagne: 11, 25 July, 8 August Lauzerte: Thursdays, 4 July to 29 August Lavit: 18 July, 22 August Caylus: 27 July, 16 August Monclar de Quercy: 10 August Monpezat-de-Quercy: Wednesdays, July & August Donzac: 14 July Lasalle: 16 July, 6, 20 August Castelsarrasin: 5 July, 2 August Cazes-Mondenard: 2 July, 23 August Montauban: 28 July Piquecos: 10 July, 8 August

Lacapelle to 26 August days, 8 July on M : in ember éz M ly to 2 Sept ondays, 1 Ju M : al ré gust lle Au Vi July to 20 esdays, 16 Tu n: to ber te em on M ne to 3 Sept days, 25 Ju gust Au Nérac: Tues July to 14 nesdays, 24 st gu Cancon: Wed ly to 21 Au sdays, 10 Ju ember Sos: Wedne ne to 5 Sept sdays, 27 Ju st Au Duras: Thur ly to 29 gu ursdays, 4 Ju ember pt Se 5 Fongrave: Th to ays, 4 July sd ur Th n: Monflanqui to 30 August gust idays, 5 July July to 23 Au Beauville: Fr : Fridays, 5 ne en uy G st egu 30 Au Lévignac-d s, 5 July to enais: Friday st gu Tournon d’Ag ly to 18 Au ndays, 7 Ju Monclar: Su

Gers

Lot

Cahors: 1 July & 5 August Carlucet: Tuesdays, 2 July to 27 August Carennac: Tuesdays, 2 July to 27 August Mauroux: 6 August Port du Quercy: Wednesdays, 17 July to 14 August Puy l’Eveque: Wednesdays, July & August Souillac: Wednesdays, 3 July to 28 August Barguelonne en Quercy: 18 July Brengues: 25 July, 8 August Carnac-Rouffiac: Thursdays, 4 July to 29 August Gourdon: Thursdays, 4 July to 29 August Cazals: 9 & 13 August Prayssac: 6 July Montcuq en Quercy: 14 July

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

ts!

You will find many more in the Markets: Night Markets section of our What’s On pages at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com but here is a small selection to whet your appetite.

N.Haute Garonne Grenade: 24 July, 28 August Cadours: 20 July

Lectoure : Monday s. 15 July Condom: to 19 Au Tuesdays, gust 16 July to Lupiac: T 20 August uesdays, 2 July to Montréa 27 August l du Gers : 2 3 July, 6 Solomiac August : Tuesda y 9 & 23 Lavarden J u ly , 6 & 20 s: 3, 17, August 31 July, Lombez: 3 1 A ugust 24 July Samatan : 19 July , 2 & 16 Vic Feze August nsac: 10 , 24 July Mauvezin , 7, 21 A : 8, 16 A ugust ugust Saint Cla r: 18 July , 1, 8, 15 Auch: 19 August July, 2 A u gust Bassoues: 12 July & 16 August L’Isle Jo urdain: 1 7 August

45

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SPEAKING YOUR LANGUAGE Nous parlons votre langue Our lawyers Nos juristes

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n. Property transactions Wills Estate planning and administration Inheritance tax and dispute resolution

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14812_The Buzz Advert International Offering Expats_final.indd 1

12/06/2019 09:11

PROPERTY

Making that sale eral visits. However, that first impression is vital and there are certain things you can do to create a good one.

Light: make sure each

room is shown to its full potential with lights and lamps switched on and open shutters, it really does make a difference to a buyer’s sense of comfort.

Home staging in France is known as “la mise en valeur de votre bien”, bringing the best out of your property and enhancing its appeal.

New cushions can make a huge difference

48

Sarah Day, Owner at Maisons et Manoirs, explains why it is important, and how the French and English differ in approach.

Home staging is turning your home into a stage, onto which future buyers can project themselves into their future home. Your property is one of many being viewed and should be a blank canvas rather than projecting your character. The minute buyers start looking at your carefully arranged photos, or trying to identify the sonata piping through your system, you have lost them.

Buyers need uncluttered vision and sound to absorb the atmosphere of your house.

French sellers are quite happy to leave showings to the professionals. There’s a strong emphasis on the environment and economic efficiency, and running costs and quality ma-

terials feature highly. English homes are often bathroom-rich with state-of-the-art kitchens and sprawling, comfy living rooms.

Over the years I’ve found that French buyers like the British sense of cosy that comes from living 11 months inside before rushing out for the skin-searing BBQ season. The English love the French sense of outdoors which comes from living outside 6-8 months of the year, the indoor/outdoor spaces and prolific vegetable gardens.

On a first visit buyers just need peace. Nothing is more off-putting than a seller taking centre stage, telling them what they have done, or what they would have done. Your ultimate aim is that they imagine themselves sitting on your terrace, cooking in your kitchen, swimming in your pool, harvesting your tomatoes.

Opinions vary on how long it takes someone to decide they want a particular house, and range from 90 seconds to sev-

Smells: you don’t need to bake bread. General cooking, herbs and spices are welcoming and homely.

Pets: most of us love pets but they aren’t necessarily a selling point and, if they are cute, they may be distracting.

Food bowls and litter trays should go out for the visit.

Space: answer any technical questions in a comfortable area. Six people in the bathroom discussing photovoltaic panels is not the best place.

Of course it’s essential to mention things such as central heating, pool running, septic tank, age of roof, broadband speed, but don’t fill silences with superfluous facts. All nationalities like to feel at ease when looking at their new home and, for this this reason, less is always more on a first visit. www.maisonsetmanoirs.com

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

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

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ADVICE

Making Moving home is one of the most stressful things you can do in life, yet most of us will choose to do it several times.

Moving overseas or within a foreign country can be even more traumatic. Amanda Davis highlights what can be done to help things run more smoothly.

BY AMANDA DAVIS, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR AT SAFE HANDS HAULAGE

Choosing a removal company

There isn’t a fixed price for removals so look for the right price, not the cheapest. You need a company that will turn up when they say they will, not drop all your goods and break them, and will pack the vehicle carefully to avoid damage in transit. Ensure they are registered with valid licenses to operate the vehicle. Any vehicle over an authorised mass of 3.5 ton, or a 3.5 ton with a trailer, requires an International Operator’s License.

Obtaining a quote

Sometimes a company will arrange a visit, but, depending on the distance, this is not always possible. In this case they will need an inventory of the items being

50

moved as well as the collection and delivery addresses.

An experienced estimator will know what additional questions to ask in order to allocate the correct vehicle. It’s important not to miss items from the list. It won’t make much difference to the price but it could mean that not everything will fit on the vehicle. The more time spent on the details at this stage, the smoother the move will be.

Packing

You may have decided to leave all the packing to the removal guys. If not, this needs to be started as soon as possible.

Some companies will charge extra if they arrive and everything is not packed and ready to load.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

the move Booking a slot

As soon as you have a completion date book the removal company. Just because you have spoken about prices, it doesn’t mean they are available. Some companies will ask for a non-refundable deposit at the time of booking, some will ask for the full cost to make the booking, and some won’t take any money until your goods are being loaded onto the lorry.

Moving day

Packing Tips • Single skinned cardboard boxes are okay for a local move but not for goods going overseas.

• Fill packing boxes to the max to keep their shape and make them easier and safer to stack.

• Put paper or towels inside the box at the top and bottom for extra protection.

• Mark the boxes with the contents and the destination room.

• Tape the box on all the

joints, especially the bottom.

• Pack cups, vases and jugs upright, plates on their edge, all covered in paper.

• If items are fragile, mark the boxes fragile but don’t mark everything fragile!

• Cover paintings in bubble wrap, marking the glass side with the word glass.

• Wrap bare canvas paintings in paper then bubble wrap.

• Stand flat-screen TVs

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

upright.

• Check that the removal company will carry any liquids. If packed, ensure tops are on securely and place in plastic boxes in case of spillage.

• The movers should be able to provide mattress bags and wardrobe boxes, most will bring these on the day of the move.

Make it easier to park the lorry close to the house by cutting back overhanging trees and bushes beforehand, and parking cars elsewhere.

Ensure all medication, passports, documents, travel tickets, cheque books, bank cards and other important items are safely in your possession and out of reach, or they may end up on the lorry.

You may want to take kettle, cups and cleaning items in your own car, ready for arrival. Unless previously agreed, stay at the house to answer questions but keep out of the way and deter friends from coming over. Loading a large truck is hard work both mentally and physically, the best way to help is with a cup of tea or coffee.

Taking delivery

If the removers arrive and can’t unload you will be charged extra. Make sure there is good access, save parking spaces near to the property and park your cars elsewhere. Stay at the property to give directions on where the furniture needs to be positioned. Unless you want to be hunting around for boxes, it’s best to label the internal doors to match the label on the boxes.

Happy moving! www.safehandshaulage.com

51

ASK

KATIE!

ADVICE Monitor your emotions

Katie Gardner is a fully-qualified CBT Counsellor and 11-year expat based on the border of 47/24.

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

Q

Paula S I arrived here alone and have become caught up with a group and now can’t break free without risking upsetting them. It’s stressing me out.

A

Hello Paula When you say “caught up” with a group, presumably they originally helped you to integrate but now you have found your feet you are wanting to expand your contacts? That’s understandable but there’s no need for total exclusion is there?

Rather than extricating yourself completely from the original group, unless it is toxic of course (and then my answer would be completely different!), could you not gradually commit

to fewer/less regular meetups? People grow apart naturally, particularly in the early stages of arrival here. It doesn’t need to be acrimonious or terminal but just part of the natural ebb and flow of all friendships; to be done gently and gracefully and taking into consideration the feelings of others, not just one’s own.

Q

Johan G I would like to join a charitable organisation to help others but how do I keep my own feelings separate and not become involved?

A

Dear Johan Ah, working for any charitable organisation will, of course, involve a Expand your network of friends

52

certain amount of emotional connection but you are absolutely right to be considering this before starting. So, firstly, I would advise setting yourself some boundaries before researching what’s out there, then stick to them!

Questions such as: How many hours per week can you work? Take into account other commitments (leisure or otherwise) that you have and allow plenty of space for them; you can always increase your hours but it might be more difficult to decrease them.

When can you work those hours? Bear in mind any previous daytime/evening commitments i.e. visiting doctors/childcare.

Would you rather work with animals or people?

Do you prefer working alone or in a team?

The type of charity you volunteer for will have their own needs and requirements and your answers will help to narrow down which one is the most suitable for you both.

As for retaining sufficient emotional detachment to ensure your mental wellbeing isn’t threatened, there are these considerations: Begin by not taking on too much, you will know pretty quickly whether you are suited for something or not.

Monitor yourself (your emotions and the physical input) on a regular basis, identifying anything that feels too draining. The easiest way to do this is either by keeping a daily diary describing what sort of day you have had, or speaking to someone else involved in the same work.

Develop good relationships with those who are running the charity. This will help you feel supported and appreciated; which will go a long way towards your feeling positive about what you are achieving.

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

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

WIN A VINEYARD TOUR & COMPETITION

A NIGHT’S STAY

D

ordogne Vineyard Tours and Château Mont d’Onel have come together to offer this fabulous prize for two.

Featuring wine-tasting at estates in three different Bergerac appellations and a picnic lunch amongst the vines, it also includes a night in a luxury double room as well as breakfast and a bottle of local wine and transport between the vineyards and the château. This Classic Tour prize is available until 15 OcClosing date for entries is 8 September, 2019. The offer is valued at EUR 350. Tours may change slightly subject to weather. 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.

tober 2019, or the winners can opt for a winter tour.

Dordogne Vineyard Tours creates bespoke wine tours to both established and lesser known wineries to help you to discover (and taste) Dordogne’s signature wines, learn how the wines are made and meet the winemakers.

Perched on a hill with magnificent views, the 13th-century Château Mont d’Onel at Couze et St Front offers peace and tranquillity within easy walk-

13th-century Château Mont d’Onel at Couze et St Front.

ing distance of the town. www.dordognevineyardtours .com www.montdonel.com For a chance to win, all you have to do is answer the following 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.

1. In cycling, a water bottle is called a a. Bilon b. Bidon c. Bison

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

2. When moving, flat-screen TV’s should be kept a. flat b. upside down c. upright

3. When did Mark Spitz win 7 gold medals at the Olympics? a. 1968 b. 1976 c. 1972

4. What is an Epouvantail? a. Type of bird b. Scarecrow c. Garden rake

53

WELL BEING

Here we explore how to meditate, and how to use stones to bring tranquility and peace into our lives.

Meditation

Sarita Cameron owns the Solhenge Retreat Centre and teaches ancient shamanic techniques, quantum manifesting, mindfulness and self-healing. She tells us about meditation.

Meditation gives us the opportunity to find peace and harmony within, regardless of exterior circumstances, allowing the mind to let go of worries and negativity. It also helps with conditions such as depression, anxiety, high blood pressure and stress related illness as well as pain

Taking some

management.

There are many types of meditation but the simplest method for beginners is to focus their attention on the breath.

The following three-minute, heart-based meditation comes from Tibet. It has been proven to re-grow telomeres (the little socks on the end of your gene codes that keep you young) and boost your immune system for up to 12 hours! It also stimulates the brain to produce happy hormones such as endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. Science now tells us that the heart has a brain and memory; there are more neuritis (what your brain is made of) in your heart than in your

me time

54

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

head! In this meditation we learn how to connect to the heart’s brain and feel gratitude in the moment.

Tibetan Heart Meditation

How to do Tibetan heart meditation: Wear warm, comfortable clothes and choose a peaceful place. Unless you are constrained by injury, sit up straight either in a chair or cross-legged on the floor supported by cushions if need be.

This is more to keep you awake as meditation changes brainwave function to Alpha state (relaxed) which we normally associate with sleeping.

Close your eyes and focus on your breath, following it on its path, in and out of your body. After a few moments your body will begin to relax and settle down. Now you make a conscious decision to drop your awareness from your head’s brain, down your body, into your heart’s brain. Once your conscious thoughts land in your heart, just feel what it is to have this perspective.

Now slow your breath down a little and imagine you are breathing through your heart, that the heart itself is breathing. Do this for a few moments until you have a rhythm. Next, call upon the emotion of gratitude, imagine this emotion rising up inside you and then attach it to the breath. Breathe gratitude through your heart using your breath, your will and your imagination. Do this for three minutes or so. Then gently come back into the room and open your eyes.

New meditators will find that their mind wanders constantly but, in time, the ability to focus will become easier. If your mind has wandered, don’t worry, just bring yourself back to the task in hand.

Notice how you feel at the end of this meditation. If you practise this daily for a week your life will change in extraordinary ways! www.solhenge.com

About Stones

Marie-Jo Dehaye, author of “Stars & Life, I choose my stones”, explains the calming virtues of stones and Lithotherapy, an ancient, alternative medicine that uses the energy from stones to balance and harmonise the body. She explains: Who has never wanted to look at or pick up a stone to feel that special sensation in their hand? Everyone can perceive nature, sky and water through the beauty of a stone, its colour, shape and texture.

COLOUR: Silver grey or red hematite, the deep blue of Lapis Lazuli, the light and dark violet found in the Amethyst, the earthy brown of the Tiger’s Eye, or the exquisite tint of honey in Amber.

They all give us a specific mindset.

SHAPE: Small and round, oval and thin, or even fitting the hollow of the hand.

TEXTURE: Polished and soft or rough to the touch.

intuition, and energises and strengthens the body.

These three stones recharge their energy on a pile of quartz stones, under the sun or a full moon light. Purification can be carried out with different kinds of water, depending on the stones.

It is important to choose a stone with great care; it will be a friend for life. www.mjdehaye.jimdo.com

Which Stone?

Each stone has its own properties; some calm, others stimulate and many of them protect us. For example: • Hematite anchors and harmonises the mind, body and spirit. It eliminates stress and calms pain linked to tension.

• Amethyst, the “perfect” stone, fosters elevation, appeasement and wisdom, and dissipates anger and anguish. Under a pillow it will ease insomnia and nightmares.

• Citrine confers joy, energy and creativity. Wearing a Citrine during an interview or exam helps to bring success. It opens

Different stones have different properties

New meditators will find that their mind wanders constantly but, in time, the ability to focus will become easier.

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

55

Like a fish to SPORT

water Wherever, whenever and however you swim, it’s great exercise, great fun and can seriously lift your spirits.

56

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

W

hether you float, swim lengths, exercise, try a bit of synchronised swimming or play games, there is nothing better than the feeling of a refreshing pool on a hot day. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a pool in your garden.

This region has a wealth of fabulous leisure centres with water slides, waves and waterfalls, as well as pretty lakes with dedicated areas for supervised swimming, cooling local rivers and, of course, there is the magnificent Silver Coast with the Atlantic Ocean.

SWIMMING FOR HEALTH Improving flexibility and strengthening the muscles as well as your heart and lungs, a gentle half-hour swim can burn around 200 calories, whilst an hour of energetic swimming will burn more calories than running or cycling!

Whilst not everyone can sustain that level of activity, even swimming one or two lengths as fast as you can will boost cardiovascular activity and improve your metabolism.

The buoyancy of the water means that swimming is a low impact sport and, as such, is ideal for all ages. Exaggerating the effect of even the most gentle exercise, it offers ten times more resistance than air, which adds up to more power to your elbow, not to mention other joints.

Regardless of your fitness level, swimming reduces stress and aids relaxation.

It can help with depression and improve sleep patterns, and guard against heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. It will also increase energy levels and, with this sport, a good mood is only one swim away.

ON THE RECORD Ancient Egyptian drawings and paintings showed people swimming as far back as 2500 BC. They had to, it was the only way to cross rivers and lakes.

Little did they know that thousands of years later swimming would become an Olympic event in 1896 for men, with women’s events making their first splash in 1912. An English chap, Captain Matthew Webb, was the first man to swim the Channel in 1875, and Mark Spitz was the first Olympic swimmer to win seven gold medals in a single Games in 1972.

As a teenager in 1926, Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to swim from the UK to France, and Esther Williams became the star of synchronised swimming with the advent of aqua musicals in the 1940’s and 50’s.

From Victorian days, when just a glimpse of flesh from the steps of the bathing hut was enough to send shock waves through the sea, the costumes have morphed from being a complete cover up and Long Johns to the sleekest, lightest sportswear, as well as the most glamorous of garments.

Speeds have increased too with 50m World Freestyle records set at 20.26 seconds

by Frenchman Florent Manaudou in 2014, and 22.93 by the Dutch woman, Ranomi Kromowidjojo in 2017 (25m pools). To put that into context, he was powering through the water at 8.88 km an hour!

LEARNING TO SWIM Learning to swim is obviously essential, as is using the right aids and equipment to help learners through the early stages. Swimming lessons with a profession-

al is the safest option and is likely to bring the best results most quickly. At home and under supervision, floats or kick boards are ideal to practice both arms and legs, and arm bands and rubber rings help to ensure that heads stay above the water line. A steadying hand under the tummy or back will provide additional safety until the swimmer feels they can go it alone. New swimmers may prefer goggles and nose clips if they are not used to water being near their face or eyes. Playing appropriate water games will also help to raise confidence.

It is astonishing to think that, in this day and age, drowning sits at number three in the list of unintentional deaths, with the World Health Organisation reporting an estimated 360,000 fatalities across the globe in 2015. It really is never too late to learn.

THE STROKES There’s a stroke for every occasion.

With a somewhat frivolous eye on the subject, Breaststroke will allow you to keep your hair dry, Backstroke can help to top up the tan, Butterfly will have you moving like a dolphin, and Freestyle (Front Crawl) will make you feel like a super hero. At the other end of the scale, for those who are feeling their years or who just want a leisurely swim with simple breathing, don’t forget the good old-fashioned Side Stroke.

For details of lakes and water sports visit our Business Directory and don’t forget to check out our Lakes feature in the July/ August 2018 issue of The Local Buzz at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online.

Water Games

their legs, try to push the other

crab, tries to touch their feet.

the middle and you will move

swimmer backwards.

Once caught, they become a

backwards! The one to reach

Not a swimmer? You can still

UNDERWATER TAG: One swim-

crab.

the other end first wins.

enjoy hours of fun in the water

mer tries to cross the pool

PUSH FLOAT: Using two feet,

TREASURE HUNT: throw a se-

with these easy games.

underwater and another tries

the swimmers push off from

lection of coins or weights into

to tag them. Once tagged, they

the side and float for as long as

the pool. The first one to

MARCO POLO: With eyes

take over as the tagger.

they can. The one to reach the

bring three of them up to

closed, one swimmer says “Mar-

CRAB TAG: Swimming on the

furthest point is the winner.

the surface is the winner.

co” and tries to tag the others

surface, the swimmers blow

THE LOBSTER: Float on your

Keep safe, have

from the sound of their voice

bubbles into the water as hard

front, head up and use a soft

fun!

when they respond with the

as they can whilst swimming

kicking motion with your legs.

word “Polo”.

around (great for those nervous

Then stretch your arms out at

Kick back: Two people each

of putting their face in the

the side and make gathering

hold an end of a float and, using

water). Another swimmer, the

motions to bring the water into

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

57

ON THE PITCH SPORT

Women’s football has never had a higher profile, with the recent Women’s World Cup, held in France this summer, being the biggest ever.

PSG v Arsenal

W

thanks to a hat-trick of goals from Ada Hegerberg, also won the European Champions League. Hegerberg featured on the front page of “L’Equipe” and competed in this year’s World Cup for her native Norway.

Increased media coverage is inspiring young girls, and regional clubs are now forming girl’s and women’s sides, with other local initiatives also raising participation. The French Football Federation’s nationwide promotion, “La Féminisation du Football”, also aims to increase participation and improve facilities.

Camille is a key organisational member of the Women’s French Cup (WFC), an annual competition giving top European ladies’ teams meaningful games to prepare their League and European Cup seasons. It also seeks to inspire the next generation of female players.

Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City are amongst the professional teams that have participated. This

year, Chelsea, Montpellier, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint Germain will compete on 6 and 8 August at Stade Michel-Bendichou, Colomiers.

In the lead-up, girls aged 7 to 14 from local clubs will spend a week training with and learning from top class football coaches and players as part of the WFC Academy programme. Organisers hope that some will go on to be the O’Brien’s and Hegerberg’s of the future, and, whatever their destiny, that all the girls will have a heightened sense of ambition and self-confidence.

Participation in football at any level is scientifically proven to bring a whole range of benefits including improved cardiovascular health, reduced susceptibility to osteoporosis, diabetes and other chronic diseases, and increased social interaction. Most importantly kicking a ball about with your friends is just good fun!! Why not give it a go? www.womensfrenchcup.com www.sanchengdigital.com

Participation in football at any level is scientifically proven to bring a whole range of benefits 58

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

PHOTO: DANA RÖSIGER

e thought it would be interesting to look at the growth of the women’s game, ahead of the men’s European Football League season which kicks off on 4 August.

Ian Jefferies, owner and co-founder of Sancheng Digital is a member of the Toulouse Business Exchange and is a keen promoter of football and rugby.

He met up with Camille Naude, Toulouse based footballer and businesswoman, to find out more about the development of the sport in France and sends us this report.

Since starting football as a schoolgirl in the late 1990’s, Camille has witnessed significant progress in both professional and grass-roots junior football.

Long before the women’s World Cup was created in 1991, Reims won the first national French football championships with goal scorer Anne O’Brien, a 17 year old Irish footballer, in 1975. In 2019, Olympique Lyonnais won the French championships and,

IAN JEFFERIES OF SANCHENG DIGITAL

SPORT

BY JASE ALEXANDER, EXP ER I E N C E D C L UB CYCLIST

FOLLOW THE YELLOW LINED ROAD

L

e Tour De France was created in 1903 and has taken place every year apart from during the two World Wars.

As a link to the Pyrénées, in which the cyclists can either win or lose the race on the unforgiving mountain climbs, it has visited our region many times. In fact, like the first ever edition, this year it comes to Toulouse on 17 and 18 July. Stage 11 is expected to finish in a group sprint which is an awesome spectacle, and they set off for the mountains on Stage 12. What could be better than a day or two in The Pink City watching the cycling heroes?

DEALING WITH THE HEAT Obviously the temperatures at this time of year can be pretty extreme for cycling.

Just to give you an idea how important hydration is, the Tour teams use around 40,000 water bottles or “bidons” over the three-week race.

Unfortunately we can’t all be handed bidons from team cars on our rides so we really have to plan our hydration in advance. Try to have at least one water bottle every hour.

On really hot rides take in some electrolytes, which you just pop into your bidon in tablet form, or have a look for online recipes to make your own.

I’m afraid to admit that I’m one of those cyclists who like to wear their tanned legs and arms as badges of honour, proof of long hours in the saddle. However, take me out of my cycling bubble and sit me next to my girlfriend on a beach, surrounded by “normal people” it can be a little embarrassing, more for her admittedly. Whilst riding it’s very easy to underestimate the heat as we get a nice cool air flow over our bodies so always wear a sun block. You can also buy sun resistant cycle apparel which is designed to cool at the same time.

It’s a very individual thing but, in the summer especially, it’s a good idea to keep your head covered and I would

The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

always advise road cyclists or mountain bikers to wear a helmet. A well ventilated helmet will give you safety but, in extreme heat, it’s advisable to wear something underneath, like a cycling cap, for protection from the sun. It’s great to soak your cap in cold water before you put it on to keep you cool.

If it’s going to be a really hot day, venture out as early as possible to beat the heat, or go out later in the evening as the sun is cooling down. If you have to ride during the day, try to avoid the hottest times and head for the nice tree covered roads such as those along the Canal du Midi.

If you do fancy visiting Toulouse to see The Tour come flying in, why not ride there along the canal, you could make it your own flat Tour de France stage, sprint at the end optional!

Cylcling the tree-lined Canal du Midi.

On his rides over the next few days Jase will be enjoying the fields full of beautiful yellow sunflowers, not just because they look incredible, but because it means the Tour De France is just around the corner.

59

PUZZLES

Crossword Eating out is one of summer’s great pleasures! Test your knowledge with this crossword based on eating in a restaurant.

CLUES ACROSS 1. The main course 4. Fixed-price meal 7. The bill 10. The wine 11. The waiter 13. Medium rare 14. The glass 15. To order 16. The plate 17. The tip

18. To drink Down 2. The menu 3. The napkin 5. To eat 6. The starting course 8. No smoking 9. Tip included 12. Well done 13. Takeout 16. The coffee

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

For the crossword solution go to page 65.

Wordsearch Relax in the garden with this fun word search! 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: HOUSE STAGING LE TOUR DE FRANCE PAPER ALTAR BEES KEYS SENIOR HELMET FAST VINE BANANA GOAT

60

LOAF CAR EGLISE SPARE COURT PEEL WRAP VANS PLATE MOVING VARIETY UNDERWATER LIVED

GROW HEADS KETTLE CANVAS MOOD VEGAN OLYMPIC ROPE JUGS ESTHER TEENAGER FLING SWIM

STROKES MARCO POLO FLOAT CYCLING TANNAT VEGETARIAN PASTA VENTILATED DUCK LASAGNA VASE

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64

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Crossword

solution

Here is the solution to the crossword on page 60.

Next Issue The year seems to be flying by, here we are in summer and the next issue will be taking us into autumn and Halloween! Things are going to be lively with lots still going on. Here’s what the next issue will bring.

• Entertainment: Spooky Halloween • Out and about: Roman architecture • Well-being: Personal trainers, running Plus • Food and Drink: Autumn treats What’s On, • Gardening: Cutting back for growth Puzzles and 7 Wonders of • Sport: Squash and Bowling the Region and • Finance: Inheritance tax much, much • Local Agriculture: Prunes, more Vendange and Nuts • Special Feature: La Flamme d’Armagnac The Local Buzz • July & August 2019

65

JUST DRONING

A tongue-in-cheek look at...

From dull winter hues to bright and shiny, ready for summer.

Jet Spraying A

m I the only one whose dogs hate the hose? I have never used it on them in cold temperatures but, now that the sun is shining and they are finding ever more “luscious” aromatic things to roll in, they need a hose down every now and again and that always poses a problem.

Mind you, everything has needed a hose down to bring it back to pristine condition after winter. My handy yellow power spray has been great this year removing bird poo, moss, cobwebs from furniture, patios, garden pots and ornaments and, oh yes, it also removes paint. My balcony now needs a touch up but, hey, it’s no longer growing lichen!

Then there’s the pool terrace.

It was black in places where

66

berries and leaves had been left over winter (I know, I know) but it’s now back to its original cream stone. A mixture of chlorine and water did the trick in the worst places but my whirly gig attachment and its circular motion did the rest. To clean the underside of the margells I had to walk around in the pool and, as I don’t have a wet suit, that had to wait a while.

As a competitive swimmer in my younger days I can remember the officials chipping ice from around the water’s edge before one open-air competition. There was no etiquette where we all waited in the water for everyone to finish. It was touch the side and out in one swift movement! I think a couple of personal bests

were recorded that day too!

Nowadays, unlike my cocktails and white wine, I like my pool warm.

Have you ever noticed that the surface layer, where the duck thermometer or whatever you have floating about, lulls you into a false sense of security?

No sooner are you in, than you realise that, actually, from about half a metre down it’s still pretty cold so you have to thrash about, mixing up the levels so you don’t have freezing feet. Either that or you just float, with your duck, in the top few inches too.

Going back to my dogs and hoses, I experienced a minor miracle during all this funfilled jet spraying extravaganza when I realised that both my dogs were stood in

the sunshine, enjoying the fine mist (and rainbow effect) that came from the spray as it hit the ground. That set me wondering and, as one of them had just indulged in something that smelt disgusting I thought I would experiment.

So I called her over, sat her down, turned the jet spray to the very lowest setting and sprayed her. I expected her to jump up and run but no, she was almost smiling, sitting there literally soaking it all in.

Then I realised, it was having a massaging effect whilst cleaning her off!

I’ve found another use for it and may well attach it to a warm indoor tap in the winter for them – how great is that!

See you next time . . .

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