95c | ISSUE 15 | OCTOBER 2012
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NEWS, WHAT’S ON INFO FOR AUDE, GARD, HERAULT, LOZERE, PYRENEES-ORIENTALES
RESIDENTS of a small Aude village have become the unin tended centre of media atten tion after reports of a neigh bourhood row over a noisy cockerel went nationwide. Reporters from several French news outlets have flocked to Moussan, near Narbonne, to cover the story that villagers are apparently up in arms over an over-noisy cockerel called Titi, which stops them sleeping at night. But some villagers say the affair has been blown out of all proportion and the media are adding to the disturbance. The cockerel’s owner, Jeannine Laguierce, is unre pentant. Titi lives in a hen house in her garden but villag ers are threatening to make coq au vin out of the trouble some bird and some have lodged official complaints. One of Mrs Laguierce’s neighbours, who declined to be named, said: “We don’t really want to talk to the press, this whole thing had been blown out of propor tion, we’ve even had TV crews filming here. “We are at the end of our tether, this has been going on for a year now. It’s not that we have anything against animals, and we used to be friends with Mme Laguierce: we just need our sleep, that’s all.” Turn to page 4
Photo: Incroyables Comestibles
Village in spotlight over noisy cockerel
Top hospital pledges to overcome cash crisis by LOUISE HURREN
fREE FOOD anyone? P7
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A LANGUEDOC hospital that has been named one of the best It’s in everyone’s in the whole of France is bat tling to find solutions to seri interest to find ous cashflow problems. However, management at answers to this Montpellier CHU (Centre funding problem. Hospitalier Universitaire) say that patients will continue to be Salaries are still treated as normal and all staff and suppliers are being paid. being paid and The hospital is one of the so are our country’s centres of medical excellence, coming fifth in the suppliers’ bills latest annual survey by French Guillaume du Chaffaut current affairs magazine Le Point – making it the best in the Hospital spokesman Languedoc. It is also the region’s biggest employer. M Spokesman Guillaume du Chaffaut said Mont pellier’s strongest points were its cancer, endocri nology, paediatrics and ear, nose and throat departments. He said that out of the 64 criteria
assessed by Le Point, Mont pellier gets 11 top-five places, and 24 top-10 rankings. However, he acknowledged that the hospital was suffering financial problems after its credit score was downgraded by ratings agency Moody’s. The CHU had a deficit of e12million last year. He said: “We are LanguedocRoussillon’s biggest employer, and we provide a lot of work for companies in the region, so it’s in everyone’s interest to find answers to this funding prob lem which is caused by the current state of the financial markets. Turn to page 4
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2.5tonne drug haul in Nîmes
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News What’s On Feature Leisure Time
1-7 8-11 12-13, 24 14
Food and Pets 15 Directory 16-17 Home and Gardening 18-19 Property and Finance 20-23
Useful Numbers EMERGENCY NUMBERS 18: Emergencies: Calls the fire brigade (Sapeurs Pompiers), but they deal with medical emergencies and are usually the first port of call in rural areas. 112: Emergency calls from your mobile: Be ready with your name and where you are calling from and do not hang up until told to do so. 17: Police (gendarmes) 119: Child abuse. 1616: Sea and lake rescue. 01 40 05 48 48: Anti-poison centre (Paris) 08 10 33 30 + your department number (eg 24 for the Dordogne): Gas & electricity emergencies UTILITIES FRANCE TELECOM Website in English: www.francetelecom.com To report a fault online: www.1013.fr (click on the UK flag). English-speaking helpline: 09 69 36 39 00 (from France); + 33 1 55 78 60 56 (outside France). ORANGE: English-speaking helpline: 09 69 36 39 00. SFR: 1023 (+ 33 6 10 00 10 23 from outside France). FREE: 1044. Bouygues: 1034. EDF: 24 hour breakdown line: 08 10 33 30 87; Helpline in English: 05 62 16 49 08; From outside France: + 33 5 62 16 49 08; Email: simpleenergywithedf@edf.fr GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS CAISSE D’ALLOCATIONS FAMILIALES CAF: www.caf.fr; Tel: 08 10 25 14 10. L’ASSURANCE MALADIE (AMELI, formerly known as CPAM – the health service): www.ameli.fr; Tel: 36 46 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm) English spoken. URSSAF: English-language website: www.anglais. urssaf.fr - Aude - 20 rue Saint Michel, BP 605, 11876 CARCASSONNE CEDEX 9, Tel: 04 68 11 24 00 | Gard - 6 rue du Cirque Romain, 30923 NIMES CEDEX 9, Tel: 04 66 36 48 00 | Hérault - Quartier de la Mosson, 35 rue La Haye, 34937 MONTPELLIER CEDEX 9, Tel: 08 20 00 34 35 | Lozère - Quartier des Carmes, BP 104, 48003 MENDE, Tel: 04 66 47 23 48 | Pyrénées-Orientales - 26 rue Petite la Monnaie, BP 59926, 66021 PERPIGNAN CEDEX 9, Tel: 04 68 35 75 00 PREFECTURE: Aude - 52 rue Jean Bringer, BP 836, 11012 CARCASSONNE CEDEX Tel: 04 68 10 27 01 | Gard - 10 avenue Feuchères, 30045 NIMES CEDEX 9 Tel: 04 66 36 40 40 | Hérault 34 place des Martyrs de la Résistance, 34062 MONTPELLIER CEDEX 2 Tel: 04 67 61 61 61 | Lozère - 2 rue de La
Rovère, 48000 MENDE Tel: 04 66 49 60 00 | Pyrénées-Orientales - 24 quai Sadi Carnot, 66951 PERPIGNAN CEDEX Tel: 04 68 51 66 66 OTHER HELP IN ENGLISH Counselling in France: for a qualified therapist near you or counselling over the telephone; www.counsellinginfrance.com SOS Help: similar to the Samaritans, listeners who are professionally trained; Tel 01 46 21 46 46; www.soshelpline.org No Panic France: for help with anxiety disorders; Tel: 02 51 28 80 25; www.nopanic.org.uk Alcoholics Anonymous: Aude Regular meetings are held (in French) in Carcassonne | Gard - Regular meetings are held (in French) in Nîmes, Alès and Cèze | Hérault - Regular meetings are held (in French) in Sète Agde Beziers, Bédarieux and Lodève. Montpellier: English-speaking group (closed) meets Thursdays at 18:45-20:15, doors open at 18:30. Ganges: English-speaking meeting (Willing to Grow Group), with meetings (closed) Tuesdays 18:30-20:00 in the Foyer des Jeunes, near the Schools on rue E. Gounelle, 34190 Ganges. | Pyrénées-Orientales Céret, Le Barcares-Village, Thuir, Vernet les Bains and Perpignan Cancer Support France: for advice and someone to talk to: www.cancersupportfrance.info National Office: email: cancersupportfrance@orange.fr; Tel: 05 45 89 30 05. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association Forces (SSAFA): In France: 05 53 01 64 54. Email: france@ ssafa. org.uk AVF: help with French life; www.avf.asso.fr OTHER INFO Yellow Pages: www.pagesjaunes.fr Speaking clock: 3699. Weather: 08 92 68 02 + dept. number. Last incoming call on your phone: 3131, then ‘5’ if you wish to connect. BRITISH CONSULATE British Consulate Marseilles: 24 avenue du Prado, 13006 Marseilles. Open: 09:0012:00 and 14:00-17:00 Tel: 04 91 15 72 10 (after hours emergency call this number for answer phone emergency service) PUBLIC HOLIDAYS THIS MONTH None
Languedoc Clubs and Associations Allicance Franco-Anglaise du Languedoc Roussillon Association aimed at assisting English speaking newcomers to integrate through conversation classes and social events. Contact Neil Todd: 04 67 37 99 52 www.afal.name Association Echanges Association offering cultural exchanges in French or English and bringing together various nationalities for meetings every two months. Social events for people in the area plus English lessons. The main activity for English speakers is a "pot luck" meal together for informal discussion and games and so on. Contact Emma Tikunova: 04 68 60 38 99 or 06 01 79 97 27 associationechanges@live.com
Appassionata Choir The Chorale Appassionata welcomes new members. We rehearse in the Salle Polyvalente at Bassan,from 19.45 to 22.00 every Tuesday. Membership is international and we sing everything classical to jazz. Contact Rhona Goujon 04 67 36 05 83 ESKA English Speaking Kids Association A new non-profit association called ESKA - English Speaking Kids Association which has been set up in the region to bring together English-speaking children of various ages to enjoy different kinds of activities in English. All children of all nationalities are welcome to join in the activities accompanied by their parents or guardians. Meetings take place in LunelViel. 04 67 82 36 62
Montpellier-based La Compagnie du Soleil already runs two solar farms in the region, near Lodève (Hérault) and Alès (Gard)
46 new solar parks get the green light DEVELOPERS have been given the go-ahead by the government for 46 new solar parks in the region as part of a e1bn total investment that will see 214 installations built across the country to provide electricity for 150,000 homes. Languedoc-Roussillon, Aquitaine and Paca have the country’s highest number of solar farms, and of the 46 sites selected in the Languedoc, 22 will have a capacity of more than 250KW. The list of approved projects includes two solar panel projects co-ordinated by Montpellier-based La Compagnie du Soleil – a subsidiary of La Compagnie du Vent – in Le Bosc and Soumont, near Lodève (Hérault), and La Théronde, near Alès (Gard). La Compagnie du Vent specialises in renewable energy projects, producing green energy and building power stations with 20 wind farms in France – and has nearly a dozen wind energy installations or ongoing projects in
Photo: La Compagnie du Vent / GDF SUEZ Camille Moirenc
Directrice de la publication: Sarah Smith. Printed at Nice-Matin: 214 Route de Grenoble, 06290 Nice Cedex 3.
Contents
October 2012
Hérault and Aude departments, as well as a solar power farm in Gévaudan, in the Lozère. The company has pioneered wind energy projects and in 1991 installed France’s first wind turbine in Port-la-Nouvelle. Two years later at the same location it built the first major wind farm. Spokesman Luc Pouderoux said: “We are pleased we will be working in LanguedocRoussillon, where our headquarters have been based for 20 years, and where 140 people currently work. “Work should start on these new projects within the next few months and completion is scheduled two years from now.” Fanny Bessière, spokeswoman for the EnerGaïa trade fair, held every December in Montpellier, put the region’s efforts into context: “Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the leading regions for solar power installations, producing enough electricity to cover the annual needs of 475,000 households.”
SEVEN people have been arrested as police officers made the biggest drug haul so far this year in seizing 2.5tonnes of cannabis in Nîmes that had just been brought in from Africa. Drug squad officers from the Brigade des Stupéfiants had been working on the case for nearly four months after hearing of a network in the south of France that was supplying dealers in the suburbs of Paris. They were tipped-off that a delivery was expected from the Maghreb and set up a watch in LanguedocRoussillon and tracked down the delivery to Nîmes. When they moved in on the gang they found around 20 parcels of the drug hidden in suitcases. Meanwhile, at Saze in the Gard, a mother and son have been arrested over the cultivation of cannabis in the middle of an orchard. Gendarmes in Rochefortdu-Gard started an investigation after being told that the 43-year-old woman and her 19-year-old son were growing pot on their land. Officers spotted around 50 plants growing in the orchard along the RN100 road, with some plants being more than a metre tall. When questioned, the pair denied they were growing the drug for resale and insisted it was for their own use. Police discovered drugs equipment in a search of the house. Mother and son will now go in front of the prosecutor to decide charges.
Fishermen disappointed after mediocre season FISHERMEN in Palavas and Carnon are blaming the hot sunny weather for a summer of mediocre catches. They say that selling to wholesalers by telephone before the boats have even returned to the harbour meant that sometimes there was not enough fish to sell to customers waiting at the harbour. This is a hard blow to fishermen who get better
prices when selling direct to the public than when selling to wholesalers. Fresh water eel fishing was closed for a month during the summer to allow stocks to recover but when it reopened, fishermen were not happy with the results. One man said that the lake had become infested with jellyfish: “They rot the nets and they suffocate
the whole lake. The eels aren’t in a very good state.” Some blame a whole range of other factors: the bad upkeep of canals and lakes; too many people fishing; or the lack of fish generally. Others, however, are more philosophical saying simply that, like cherries or mushrooms, some years are better than others. “It’s cyclical,” said
one fisherman. “You wait and see, there’ll be plenty of fish in the autumn.” A spokesman for the Regional Fisheries Committee said: “It’s true we have received very negative disappointing reports from certain categories of fisheries in certain very specific areas, but we don’t have information about the whole region or the whole season.”
Languedoc Pages
News 3
October 2012
Tourists spared jail after they admit bbq started forest fire
AN 18-year-old man drowned after taking a drunken midnight swim at a beach party in Carnon. Identified only by his first name Nicolas, on holiday from Auxerre, his body was found by a sailor several days later off La Grande Motte. Photo: PHOTOPQR/L’INDEPENDANT
TWO students from Lyon have been given five-month suspended prison sentences after being found guilty of starting a massive forest fire while on holiday in the Pyrénées-Orientales. The pair, both aged 21, had been visiting Bouillouses lake, in the forest at 2,100m altitude between Angoustrine and Villeneuve-des-Escaldes, when they stopped for a Saturday lunchtime barbecue. The spot is popular with walkers and all fires and smoking are banned. They could not get their barbecue to light because of the wind and put it in the lee of a cliff where it set light to overhanging branches. They raised the alarm. The blaze spread rapidly and destroyed 80 hectares of woodland. It took 100 firefighters, about a dozen water planes and three days to fully put it out. The couple apologised to the Perpignan criminal court and the judge acknowledged they had raised the alarm. They had faced up to five years in prison and a e100,000 fine.
Teen drowns after late night swim
Snake alert in store car park
SHOPPERS found a 45cm exotic snake in a hypermarket car park in Juvignac near Montpellier. They feared it was a venomous coral snake, typically found in the Amazon, but it later emerged it was harmless. It died in captivity.
Minervois wine is best in France
A MINERVOIS wine has been named the best in France by British online retailer Naked Wines. The 2010 Le Clos de l’Olivier from the Aude came top in the taste test against 280 other entrants. It now qualifies for a global contest next month.
Dinosaur bone found in Hérault
More than 100 firefighters were called to the blaze, which began after two students stopped for a barbecue in woods
A perfectly preserved 90cm dinosaur thigh bone has been found near Béziers. It is from a titanosaurus, the biggest species to have lived in France 70million years ago.
‘Teething problems’ see A9 drivers wrongly fined Photo: Florian Pépellin/Wikimedia
MOTORISTS using the A9 have complained of a technical glitch which has led to some of them being flashed by speed cameras despite respecting the limits shown on the roadside signs. The problem has arisen following the launch of a new peak-time speed limit of 90kph between Montpellier and Saint-Jean-de-Védas, when at other times the authorised speed along this stretch is 110kph. Motorway operator ASF (Autoroutes du Sud de la France) has confirmed that the problem stems not from the speed cameras themselves, which are working correctly, but from the display panels which have continued to indicate the 110kph limit during the rush hour period. They should update automatically to show 90kph between 7.00 and 9.00 in the morning and 17.00-19.00 in the evening – and as a result, drivers have continued driving at 110kph, unaware that they are breaking the limit. Reports in local press suggest that drivers who have been wrongly flashed during rush hour due to the signs’ malfunction will have their speeding tickets revoked, but ASF could
A9: New speed limit of 90kph at rush hour not confirm or deny this, pointing out that they would be giving the relevant information to the CACIR (Centre Automatisé de Constatation des Infractions Routières) in Rennes, which issues speeding fines generated by fixed radar cameras. The new speed limits are being trialled for a year, with a review planned after the first six months. ASF says they are working on fixing the problem, which has been put down to “teething issues” and the recent heavy rain storms.
Pupils face action for selling laptops EDUCATION chiefs are considering taking legal action against pupils who have sold the free laptop computer that Languedoc-Roussillon region supplied to help their studies. Last year the region decided to spend e15.8m a year on a three-year scheme to buy nearly 32,000 laptops for pupils going into seconde, the first year of lycée, in a move to make sure all pupils had access to computers. But the region noticed that adverts started to appear online selling the laptops on for e250-e500. One student said the laptops had been bought and handed
out “without asking our advice, without any explanation; as if we were being served chips in the canteen”. She added that teachers “never asked us to work on our laptops” so she thought she might as well sell it. In many cases, sellers have managed to remove the “LoRdi” logo on the laptop case. Region president Christian Bourquin said the charter pupils signed when taking the Dell laptops meant that they did not become their property until after they had graduated, so should not be sold. A spokeswoman for Languedoc-Roussillon
regional council said: “We are looking at the possibility of beginning legal action, but no decision has been taken yet – we are still thinking about it. “This will not have any effect on the three-year scheme, which was launched last year. “At the start of October we will hand out another batch of LoRdi computers to students starting lycée. The region spokeswoman added: “We trust the young people of LanguedocRoussillon – the computers that have been put up for sale online represent a very marginal phenomenon.”
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4 News Lozère allows wolf shooting
Three-year-old stole from shop
SIX Romanian children – the youngest aged just three – have been arrested and bailed in Carcassonne for stealing clothes from a charity shop. The case is being dealt with by a city judge specialising in juvenile crime.
Salt producers return to work
A SALT farm in the Aude has resumed production after several years of being abandoned. The 400-hectare Salins de Gruissan was producing 30,000 tonnes a year before it shut down in 2007. It is now under new ownership, employing between 10 and 25 staff depending on the season.
Beach bracelet helps the blind
Organic snail farm in Perpignan A PERPIGNAN farmer has spent four years setting up what he claims is France’s first fully organic snail farm. The 2,500m2 greenhouse is equipped with 500 atomisers to keep an optimum level of humidity for the petit gris variety, which has a white flesh which is said to be particularly tasty and nutritious.
From page 1 The municipal authorities of Moussan have issued Mrs Laguierce with a warning to keep the cockerel quiet or face a fine. In late August, three neighbouring families and the accused had a meeting with Narbonne’s legal mediation services, at which they all agreed that starting from 2.00 in the morning on September 12, Titi must no longer make noise between 20.00 and 7.00. Whether Mrs Laguierce will be able to enforce this requirement remains to be seen. The agreement was ratified by Narbonne’s public prosecutor and if it is not respected, the local police can then charge Titi’s owner with an offence, and she may find herself facing a daily fine of e35–e40.
From page 1 Mr du Chaffaut said cashflow was an issue because the hospital is only reimbursed by the state after treatments have been completed. He said: “We operate on a treat-first, get-paid-after basis. Patients come to us, and it is only after their care that the CHU is reimbursed. “To compensate for the difference between our upfront expenditure and reimbursement by the state, we usually have financing of e20m from the banks, but they have reduced the amount they are prepared to lend. “Fortunately we have been able to find solutions to this problem with the help of the Agence Régionale de Santé and the Assurance Maladie authorities.” He added: “Salaries are being paid and so are our suppliers’ bills.” The CHU’s annual budget is in the region of e740m, and although the deficit amounted to e11.9m last year, Mr du Chaffaut said this meant that Montpellier was “in fact one of the least indebted of
Spokesman Guillaume du Chaffaut: salaries and bills are still being paid all French hospitals”. Despite the cashflow problems, the CHU has continued to invest in purchasing equipment and renovation work. The hospital’s position as the fifth best in France according to Le Point is the same
Did you know? Photo: Andres Medel
‘We are at the end of our tether’
The CHU hospital in Montpellier is continuing to invest in new equipment and renovation despite the funding problems Photo: CHRU Montpellier
A GARD seaside resort has pioneered a new way for blind people to enjoy the beach safely. The Audioplage system in Grau-du-Roi involves a series of buoys that communicate with a bracelet worn by bathers with sight problems, which can direct them back to the shore or call for help. Similar markers in the sand help them find their way around the beach.
October 2012
Banks cut funding to region’s best-performing hospital Photo: CHRU Montpellier
Lozère prefect Philippe Vignes has authorised hunters to fire defensive shots at wolves if they pose a risk to cattle. The order applies to five areas on the Méjean plateau, where wolf attacks are particularly common, but could be extended further.
Languedoc Pages
Popular tielle was brought to Sète by the Italians in the 18th century
as last year. Establishments have to offer a full range of services (specialist care units are excluded) and are judged on 64 criteria, focusing on their medical and surgical offer. Toulouse came top in the annual survey, followed by Lille, Bordeaux, Strasbourg and Pitié-Salpêtrière in Paris. Meanwhile, staff at Mende hospital in the Lozère have organised a series of protests amid fears that its intensive care unit could be closed down because of an administrative error. The hospital forgot to reapply to the regional health authority for permission to keep the unit running. The approval is required because the unit has fewer beds than the national norm – six instead of nine and no MRI scanner. It was granted an exception because of its rural setting. The regional health authority has now given the unit a two-year reprieve, but has also raised questions about the hospital’s budget plans for 2013. Staff fear other units at the hospital could also be at risk.
Documentary to shed light on CHU work
The CHU teaching hospital in Montpellier is to star in a documentary series on TF1 this autumn. The programmes were filmed in the hospital over two days last spring and are scheduled for a late-evening slot. The hospital was not paid for the filming, although many hospitals do earn money by allowing companies to film on their premises. Normally however, the CHU in Montpellier receives very few requests from film and television companies. “We’re not on the circuit, and we don’t really have the facilities for them,” said spokesman Guillaume du Chaffaut. Feature film Omar m’a Tuer was however filmed in the CHU Montpellier, the France 2 series Lignes de Vie was filmed in the hospital at Grau-du-Roi, and feature film Partir was filmed at the CHU in Nîmes. These projects netted the hospitals in the region of e1,500 a day. All the money received from film companies goes to medical research, along with any donations from businesses or members of the public and all the money earned by doctors for speaking at conferences. The biggest earning hospital in the south is AP-HM in Marseille, which made e100,000 last year from local film and television companies. Scenes from the popular French soap Plus Belle La Vie are frequently shot there.
Sète spicy fish pie has origins in Italy The Languedoc port of Sète is famous for its seafood – the restaurants lining the quayside of the canals all feature oysters, mussels and bourride (a fish stew served with its trademark aïoli garlic mayonnaise). But it is the humble tielle that has really made its mark here. These small pies filled with octopus, tomatoes, spices and garlic have become a local speciality – although they are actually Italian in origin, like many of the port’s inhabitants. The story of the tielle starts in the little fishing village of Borgo di Gaeta, north of Naples. The locals noticed that the occupying Spanish soldiers made a kind of covered pizza, similar to that baked in Italy except that its pastry lid kept the filling from drying out. The Italians adapted the idea, using
a baking mould called a teglia (from which the name has derived), and created their own version of the dish using octopus cooked in stock and mixed with a spicy tomato sauce, and which they brought with them to Sète in the 18th century. Italian immigrant Adrienne Virduci was the first person to make and sell tielles in Sète, in 1937. Today, her grandchildren continue the family tradition via a number of businesses in the town centre. Names to look out for are Tielles Dassé, Tielles Cianni and Paradiso (all descendants of the Virduci line). Usually served as a starter, tielles can be served hot or cold, according to the season. The most commonly found size is around 12cm in diameter, but larger versions exist.
Languedoc Pages
News 5
October 2012
Photo: Matwi/Wikimediaarwic
by LOUISE HURREN MONTPELLIER tourism chiefs say they are already seeing a significant boost in visitor numbers and interest in the city after a leading American newspaper named it one of the 50 “mustsee” places in the world. Local authorities were so delighted with a series of complimentary articles in the New York Times they commissioned a poster campaign around the city highlighting their achievement. But just what is it about the Languedoc capital that caught the paper’s attention – and is all the praise justified? Fanny Dombre-Coste from Montpellier tourist office said: “The New York Times coverage has been a real gift for us, and we’ve seen concrete proof of its effect. “First, we have had a number of requests from journalists who have read the articles in question, who then want to come and file their own stories – we’ve had some great coverage in El Païs, for exam-
Photo: A.Hampartzoumian
New York story pays for Montpellier
Jean-François Pouget: ‘positive effect for the city’
Fanny Dombre-Coste: ‘coverage is a real gift’
ple, as a direct result of the New York Times articles. “Second, we have had reports from city hotels, telling us that tour operators made group bookings because of the coverage. Another example – but we can’t attribute it directly to the articles – is the 26% rise in the number of American tourists who have contacted the tourist office so far this year.” It began in January, when Montpellier was selected as one of “the 45 places to go in 2012” by the newspaper. It
was the only French destination on the list, and Languedoc’s capital city was lauded for its modernist and futuristic structures (notably the new city hall, RBC Design Centre and Pierres Vives buildings) and “what may be Europe’s sexiest tram system.” Then, in August, another article celebrated France’s eighth-largest city with a “36 hours in Montpellier” feature that highlighted all the latest and greatest places to eat, drink, shop and sleep. Photo: MC Lucat
‘This kind of ‘I must be ‘Traffic to our website coverage is missing important’ something’ doubled’ Alain de Bordas, owner of Montpellier boutique hotel Baudon de Mauny I was delighted with the free publicity. These very positive articles show Montpellier as a dynamic destination, they showcase its cultural offer, its architecture and its nightlife, all of which are very attractive to our guests. Our website traffic doubled in the period after the ‘36 hours’ article, I can’t say for sure that it was a direct result as there was another article published about us around the same time, but I imagine there might well be a connection.”
Leticia Leclercq is the co-owner of Brasserie Chez Boris in the city centre This kind of media coverage is incredibly important for the city’s restaurateurs and business owners, because in the summer and during the school holidays, our clientele is very much tourist-based. People really do seem to take note of this kind of recommendation – they use the internet to plan and research their trips. To my mind, the inclusion of Montpellier in the 45 must-see destinations list is really significant.
American writer and Montpellier resident Ed Ward The New York Times’s odd perspective on Montpellier amuses me. Do they really believe that the ‘ironic fascist’ architecture of one of the world’s most reviled architects, Ricardo Bofill, is worth coming to France for? I hope not. As for the new city hall, gee, why not go to Houston, where things like that are everywhere? If the modern architecture here is its attraction, I must be missing something.”
Paris-based American travel writer Seth Sherwood wrote the 36-hours article, and suggested Montpellier as a destination for the 45 places to go piece. He said he had no idea that the city had turned the coverage into a poster advertising campaign: “That blows me away, I had no idea. I did get a lot of emails and calls from local authorities and the town hall when the articles were published, but this is a complete surprise.” Asked what prompted him to choose Montpellier, he said:
“Friends in Paris were drinking Languedoc wines, a couple of bars in my area specialise in wines from the region, and that sparked my interest.” Jean-François Pouget, from Hérault tourist board, said: “The spotlight has been shone on Montpellier thanks to these articles, and no doubt it has had, and will continue to have, a positive effect on the number of tourists visiting the city, particularly in terms of overseas visitors. Montpellier is becoming a real ‘name’ within the tourism sector.”
The poster campaign that followed the NYT articles
6 National News
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
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citizens in every EU state would have equal rights to vote in the country in which they choose to settle – and equal responsibilities to pay tax there under a plan by a leading French economist to “put in place a real status of European citizenship”. Jacques Attali, who chairs an independent think-tank set up by the Sarkozy government to look at French growth and reform, has also called for a single EU-wide passport. He said it would give the holder access to all the rights of a national in their member state, including voting in presidential and parliamentary elections, provided they lived there for more than 10 years.
Same-sex weddings law ‘by early 2013’
A NEW law to be tabled this month will give homosexual couples the right to get married and to adopt. It could become law early in 2013. Justice Minister Christiane Taubira, the justice minister,
New Lascaux caves facsimile is dropped
Centre national de la préhistoire 2006 © MCC-CNP
Citizens would get EU right to vote
Bulls and horses depicted in the Lascaux paintings was fulfilling a campaign promise by President Hollande and said: “We are well aware of the philosophical and anthropological dimensions around marriage but we feel that they should not break the rule of equality.” The law would extend the rights of marriage, kinship and parentage to same-sex couples and open up adoption either individually or as a
couple. However, they will not have the right to artificial fertility treatment (PMA) and the government has maintained the ban on surrogacy.
Austerity drive linked to job creation plan
A TWIN attack of an austerity budget and action to create jobs is President Hollande’s aim for the next two years. He
BUDGET cuts could halt e50million plans for a giant facsimile of the Lascaux caves in the Dordogne. Culture Minister Aurélie Filippetti said the Lascaux 4 plan near Montignac was not a priority. It was hit along with unbudgeted cultural projects from the previous government – totalling almost a billion euros. Bernard Cazeau, leader of Dordogne conseil général, said the plan was a Unescobacked bid to stop damage to the 17,000-year-old paintings - and would go ahead. told TF1 that his government was in “battle mode” to get France back on track with his main targets being the national debt and joblessness. It means a tough time ahead as the “recovery agenda” would see e30 billion of taxes and spending cuts. The debt would be reduced through a e10bn cut in public spending next year with every ministry apart from educa-
tion, security and justice being hit; e10bn from “large companies” through increased taxes and social charges, and e10bn from the ordinary taxpayer - and “especially better off households”. Jobs would be created with a state-subsidised “generation contract” to get companies to hire young workers and the employment of 60,000 more staff in schools.
Oldest nuclear plant to be closed down
PRESIDENT Hollande has said France’s oldest nuclear power plant, at Fessenheim in Alsace, will close in 2016. He told a Paris environmental conference he wanted to reduce the country’s dependency on nuclear power and said he wanted it cut from the present 75% to 25% by 2025. This means a major increase in renewable energy supply and he said appeals for new wind and solar projects would be launched later this year. He has also rejected seven bids to drill exploration wells for shale gas, citing community fears on water pollution.
Arnault foundation could save 37% tax
FRENCH tycoon Bernard Arnault, the head of the LVMH luxury goods group, has set up a Belgian foundation which could help his children pay minimal inheritance tax after he dies. Arnault, France’s richest man with a e32billion fortune, recently announced he had applied for Belgian nationality and the Protect invest foundation could let him pass on billions of inheritance with no or little tax. His heirs could pay 3% instead of 40% in France.
Languedoc Pages
News 7
October 2012
Photos: Incroyables Comestibles
The Incroyables Comestibles movement is gathering pace in the Languedoc and spreading to other parts of France, including a recent visit to Paris (below) to help promote the scheme
Gard embraces food-share scheme by SAMANTHA DAVID
THE Languedoc-Roussillon is fertile soil for a free food project that started in the UK. The Incroyables Comestibles was introduced to France last January by François Rouillay, a territorial development advisor and essentially consists of people growing food and sharing it. In the Gard there are Incroyables Comestibles groups in Rousson and St-Hippolytedu-Fort, and in the Place de la Canourgue, Montpellier. “Last year, people started to talk to me about food insecurity, not only in the third world, but here in France,” says Mr Rouillay. “Did you know that we only have enough food in the supermarkets to last four days? If something disrupted the food chain it wouldn’t be long before none of us would have enough to eat. Look at the Restos du Coeur – every year that charity receives more demands for help.” He says France is staggering under the weight of a seemingly unresolvable economic crisis and the world is looking at shortages of fuel, water, jobs – and a lot of it can be addressed through Incroyables Comestibles. “You just put a planter outside your door, sow some seeds and invite people to help themselves,” he says. “It really is that simple. If we all grow food and share it, we will have plenty.” Mr Rouillay says he was hav-
ing difficulty getting to know the neighbours in his village, but suddenly now he knows everyone because he put a free food planter outside the front of his house. “We know each other, we exchange food, we are thinking of making a shared garden together and now the mayor of the village next door is setting up a similar scheme in their village.” Éric Begny has had a very similar experience in SaintJean-de-Valériscle (Gard) which has a population of around 700. ‘At the start it was just three families but around 30 people came to a meeting we had in July and I think we can get enough people interested to make it work on a
more permanent basis.” Mr Begny and his friends have planted tomatoes, aubergines, courgettes and beet in four planters that they put on the central square of the village. “We didn’t ask permission, we just did it. At first the mayor wasn’t too happy; he thought it might be some sort of militant thing or something for poor people, but now he’s found out that we’re just feeding ourselves and letting anyone help themselves, he’s very positive.” Mr Begny got the idea from alternative lifestyle magazine Nexus, and says that so far everything about his experience has been positive. “We’re learning to make connections and get to know each other.” So far in France, the actual amount of food produced is very small, but devotees say it is the principle that counts and, after all, this is the first year. “Since May, we’ve had around one town per day sign up for the scheme on our Facebook page which is very fast,” says Mr Rouillay. He thinks the idea appeals because anyone can do it, with or without the agreement of the local authorities. “People definitely want a different approach to life,” he says. “They want to be responsible for producing the food we eat, they want something co-operative and communal. This works because it’s simple. There is no philosophy or strategy. All you do is plant, water and share. So people
Free food project was born in Yorkshire The “Incredible Edible” idea was originally born in Todmorden in Yorkshire as a response to the town’s dramatic economic downturn. As nearly half the 24,000-strong population moved away, houses were left empty and businesses went to the wall. Pam Warhurst and Mary Clear started growing vegetables and herbs wherever they could: at the edges of buildings, on abandoned land, roadside verges and even in a graveyard. Gradually, people started joining in, giving up a few hours to weed and water and
then others started donating land and tools. Since 2008, the idea has grown extraordinarily. Todmorden has become something of a mecca for people interested in community food projects, the local council is now involved and other towns in the UK are following suit. The schemes they set up may not make lots of money or result in many new jobs, but they keep local money and local produce circulating, which keeps small towns alive. In Todmorden, all the schools have food-growing schemes. n www.incredible-edible.info
understand that we can change the world with this idea.” He says he has been asked to visit India, and that people have contacted him from Israel, Africa, Canada, and Tahiti. He also went to Paris to help set up some free food vegetable beds
there. “We had to work hard to inform people that it really is free, that they really can do it. Many people are enthusiastic about it but others are suspicious. But I tell them you can’t steal a free tomato. “Incroyables Comestibles is a
way of reconciling people with each other, making people change the way they look at each other. We have to stop being scared of each other, we have to have confidence that we have the power to control our lives.”
8 What’s On
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
Photos: © Foire Internationale Montpellier
October
Hérault
Montpellier
FESTIVAL October 5-15 Foire Internationale de Montpellier – Latin America is the theme for this year’s Montpellier international fair, a major celebration of world cultures taking place in the city every autumn for the past 64 years. A key economic event in the region, the fair plays host every year to more than 230,000 visitors and 1,000 exhibitors at the Park&Suites Arena. This edition will take visitors on a journey through Latin American culture, history, art and day-to-day life, with Brazilian dance, Argentinian tango and Cuban salsa shows among many other events. It is open every day from 10.00 to 20.00, with late opening until 22.00 on some days. A day pass is 7 from www.foire-montpellier.com To get to the fair: • By bus – access to the Parc des Expositions with line 28 from the city centre (Place de l’Europe). Get off at Pérols Parc Expo • By tramway – Line 3 stop Parc des Expos • By car – motorway A9: exit 29 “Montpellier Est”, direction Parc des Expositions/Park&Suites Arena. From Montpellier city centre, head in the direction of the airport.There is a free car park.
Photo: © Frédéric Prochasson - Fotolia.com
Aude
Gruissan
FESTIVAL October 20-21 Fête des Vendanges – The medieval village of Gruissan marks the end of this year’s grape harvest with a weekend of celebrations. It is a chance to meet local winemakers and find out more about their work, taste local produce including freshly caught seafood and join in a lively procession through the village. www.gruissanmediterranee.com
Aude
Narbonne
EXHIBITION
October 11-14 Salon Régional du Camping-Car – This major exhibition at the Parc des Expositions in Narbonne is ideal for anyone interested in taking to the roads in a campervan, or existing owners considering an upgrade. More than 150 of the latest models from the big manufacturers will be on display, with advisors on hand to help you find the right one. Entry is 7 and it is open from 10.00-19.00. www.tpl.fr
Languedoc Pages
Palavas les Flots FOOD
Pyrénées-Orientales
Banyuls-sur-Mer FESTIVAL
Photo: © jean-louis zimmerman - flickr.com
Photo: © phalenebdlv - flickr.com
Hérault
What’s On 9
October 2012
Gard
October 27-28 Salon du Chocolat – The Salle Bleue in Palavas welcomes chocolate-lovers for tastings, workshops and a chance to see some weird and wonderful creations from chocolatiers and pastry-makers. Open daily 10.00-19.00. Entry is 5. www.salon-chocolatgourmandises.com
Beaucaire
October 10-14 Fête des Vendanges – One of the region’s most colourful wine festivals, Banyuls-sur-Mer celebrates the grape harvest with a boat parade along the coastline and a feast for 7,000 people on the beach to mark the last day of the vendange. Children from local schools will help crush grapes and winemakers will offer tastings. There will also be live music, wine workshops and a market. www.banyuls-sur-mer.com
Perpignan WINE October 18-20 Fête des Vins Primeurs – Winemakers in Perpignan celebrate the year’s grape harvest as they show off their new vintage with exclusive first tastings, local food and a lively weekend of events. www.perpignantourisme. com
EXHIBITION
October 12-14 Salon des Métiers d’Art – Meet 30 of the Gard’s most creative craftspeople – from sculptors and potters to mosaicists and glass-blowers at this exhibition in Beaucaire’s casino. Participants will be giving demonstrations throughout the weekend and the artists’ works are on sale. www.beaucaire.fr
Brocantes and vide-greniers
8 The
European routes
Sunny Airport
www.beziers.aeroport.fr
Photo: jean-louis zimmerman - flickr.com
New
London
AUDE
GARD
October 6 – Port Leucate 7 – Babens, Fabrezan, La Redorte, Limoux, Mailhac, Narbonne, Pennautier (clothes) 21 – Rieux Minervois
6 – Jonquières Saint Vincent 7 – Beaucaire, Jonquières Saint Vincent, Redessan,Valleraugue 13 – Nîmes 14 – Gaujac, Laudun, Montfrin, Vallabregues 20 – Calvisson 21 – Calvisson, Sommières 27 – Jonquières Saint Vincent (games machines and jukeboxes) 28 – Anduze, Jonquières Saint Vincent (games machines and jukeboxes)
HÉRAULT 4 – Sète (antiques) 6 – Frontignan, Lattes, Marseillan Plage 7 – Capestang, Castries, Marseillan Plage, Palavas les Flots (nautical items) 13 – Marseillan Plage (paintings), Uscals d’Hérault 14 – Marseillan Plage (paintings), Oupia 20 – Frontignan, Marseillan Plage (paintings)
with Flybe. Corresponding Áights : Belfast, Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Newcastle, Jersey, Guernsey
PYRÉNÉES-ORIENTALES
www.beziers.aeroport.fr
7 – Argelès-sur-Mer (children’s items)
Services at the Airport : Shuttle bus to Béziers and Agde/Cap d’Agde running on each departing and arriving flight. Parking : 30 minutes free, 1 day of parking offered per week paid. Free Wifi Zone.
30 BUS
FREE ZONE
MN GRA E MIN. FRETUIT E
10 What’s On
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
Get Involved!
noticeboard Retro car club hits road
Peter and Rosy Spencer (above) are among six British members of the club
The CRAC 66 car club (Club Retro Automobile Catalogne 66) has been running for around 10 years. It is based in Amélie-les-Bains, a town in the Vallespir valley, near the Spanish border.The club’s president is Gérard Pouzens, an Amélie-les-Bains resident who runs the local ambulance, taxi and funeral service.There are around 40 members, of whom six are British and annual membership costs 20. Peter Spencer and his wife Rosy moved to the Pyrénées-Orientales department in 2003.They live in Le Boulou and are active participants in the club’s activities. Mr Spencer says: “The aim of the club is to develop a welcoming environment for anyone interested in old cars, and in owning and running voitures anciennes – this means anything over 25 years but there are generous exceptions, such as for my 1995 BMW. “Each month we arrange a sortie
into the local countryside, in France or Spain.The outings are around 170 kilometres round trip, and include a meal or picnic.We made a trip to the Auto Retro event in Barcelona just before Christmas last year, and in May we had a Roots 66 rally in the Vallespir – there are pictures of these events and details of other activities on the club’s website.” The group’s website makes good reading for anyone interested in old cars, or cars in general, helping members search for information, parts and materials, car magazines, local tourist information, car museums, travel assistance, and links to events. Most of the links are to French sites, but there is a section dedicated to English-language sites. The group’s next meeting is on October 3 from 20.00-23.00.To find out more, visit the club’s new website: sites.google.com/site/crac66/home
Promote your club or community event - email news@connexionfrance.com
Languedoc Pages
What’s On 11
October 2012
What’s On in the capital
October 31-Nov 4 – With the nights drawing in and Christmas almost around the corner, the Salon du Chocolat is a highlight in the capital’s autumn events schedule, bringing together more than 100 chocolatiers, cocoa growers and thousands of consumers at Viparis, Porte de Versailles.The show celebrates all that is unique about chocolate and, as well as demonstrations from world-famous chefs and tastings there is dance, songs and demonstrations of rituals and traditions from cocoa-producing countries. In total, more than 40 live demonstrations and tastings will be presented.There is also a chocolate bookshop and conferences (in French) on chocolate’s history and innovations, plus the unique chocolate dresses fashion show every day at 17.00, where some of the finest designers and most talented chocolatiers work together. Open daily 10.00-19.00. Day passes are 13. www.salon-du-chocolat.com
FOOD
Photo: Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur
Photos: Julien Millet
Cocoa Chanel
Skyscrapers and Seine on sleepless night out OUTDOORS October 6 – First launched in 2002, Paris Nuit Blanche (sleepless night) is a night of non-stop art and culture in which hundreds of the city’s galleries, museums, city halls, and even swimming pools open their doors all night to visitors. Light installations, edgy performances, concerts and exhibitions are planned all over the capital and every event is free. Some town halls offer a free continental breakfast to those who stay up until dawn. The banks of the Seine will be a focal point this year, with a special cultural path running from the Radio
FESTIVAL
special fair held in Bercy Village. See www.pucesdudesign.com
Until Christmas – For the last 40 years, the Paris Festival de l’Automne has ushered in the post-summer season here by highlighting some of the best works in contemporary visual art, music, cinema, theatre and other creative forms.Venues across Paris host the season-long event which includes everything from opera and film to dance. It is the largest festival of its kind in the world. festival-automne.com
Cutting-edge cars on show Until October 14 – Le Mondial de l’Automobile is a trade show showcasting cutting-edge vehicle design from all over the world, at Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles. www.mondialautomobile.com
EXHIBITION
Rock legend Slash plays Paris October 20 – The celebrated former guitarist from Guns ‘n’ Roses, Slash, plays a solo concert at the Zénith, Parc de la Villette as part of his world tour. Tickets start at 42.
MUSIC
West Side Story in English THEATRE October 24-December 31 – Exactly 55 years since it first opened on Broadway to rave reviews, the classic musical West Side Story, is being performed in English (with French subtitles) in a twomonth run at the Théâtre Musical de Paris in Châtelet. Performances are nightly at 20.00 and tickets range from 24 to 133 from all the usual outlets.
50,000 expected at France’s ‘Grand National’ October 6-7 – The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is France’s most prestigious flat race and attracts the elite of horse racing. It is one of 13 races taking place over a weekend at the Hippodrome de Longchamp in the Bois de Boulogne during the first week in October. More than 50,000 spectators are expected and the event is watched by millions on TV worldwide.The Arc de Triomphe record was broken last year by Danedream, who finished the race in two minutes 24 seconds. Doors open at 11.00 on both days. Entry is 4 on Saturday, 8 on Sunday. Under-18s go free, as do women wearing beautiful hats. Call 01 44 30 75 00 or visit prixarcdetriomphe.com
October 10-14 – Celebrate the making of this year’s vintage with much fanfare at Paris’s only vineyard, on the north-facing hill at Montmartre, which takes on a village feel for this five-day festival.The Fête des Vendanges includes tastings, regional produce for sale, a colourful parade, concerts and fireworks on October 13. www.fetedesvendangesdemontmartre.com
FESTIVAL
Three art fairs, one weekend October 18-22 – This month is a great time for art and design lovers, with three major fairs over the same weekend. FIAC showcases work from 165 international galleries and over 2,500 artists in the impressive Grand Palais from 18-21 (www.fiac.com). Just over the road will be Art & Design Elysées from 18-22 (www.artelysees.fr), while the Cité de la Mode et du Design near the Gare d’Austerlitz has the Chic Art Fair (www.chic-today.com) from 19-22 displaying the best in fashion and design.
ART
Photo: phalenebdlv/Flickr
Photo: Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe
Harvest time at city vineyard Photo: Pierre Lannes/Flickr
Culture festival Design fair from 50s to now ushers in the 4-7 – Les Puces du Design sees DESIGN October specialists in fashion and furniture from the autumn months 1950s onwards present and sell their wares to the public on this
France building in the west to Ivry in the east. Another theme this year is the sky – with 15 buildings in the city centre opening up their roof terraces for sightseers, including the 24th floor of the Tour Zamansky at Jussieu (5th arrondissement, pictured). See the full programme at nuitblanche.paris.fr
12 Practical
Languedoc Pages
Losing a loved-one is not something we want to think about – but when it happens, it is important to act quickly and practically and understand the formalities to minimise stress at this difficult time. Here we give a step-by-step guide to the main considerations in the days and weeks that follow a death in France FORMALITIES in the first few days after someone dies include the making out of a death certificate and a declaration at the mairie. Note that if you are an employee you have the right to time off due to the death of a close relative. You also have the right to take a break from work to be with a close relative who is terminally ill, called a congé de solidarité familial, during which your contract is suspended and you can claim a daily benefit to partially compensate loss of earnings. Paperwork The first thing required is for a doc-
tor to make out a certificat médical constatant le décès (also known as the certificat de décès) to legally state the person has died. If the death took place at home, it is the doctor called to the house who will sign it. In a hospital, clinic or retirement home a staff doctor will sign it. Violent deaths, including road accidents, must be notified to the police or gendarmerie, who will supply a certificate. In the case of a violent death the body may be transferred to an institut medico-légal, a special type of mortuary, where the body will be kept in a refrigerated
Photo: Subbotina Anna - Fotolia.com
facility, where an autopsy may be carried out, it will then be transferred to a chambre funéraire or mortuaire on judicial permission. Apart from the basic proof of death, this certificat médical will also contain extra information that is important in the following circumstances: admission to a chambre funéraire (private or municipal mortuary), transport of the body before the coffin is sealed, transport abroad after sealing, embalming and cremation. In such cases, the certificate needs to show that there are no medical/legal matters of concern, that the person did not suffer from a list of contagious illnesses and (if they are to be cremated) they did not have a pacemaker. The mairie will give you a document called the acte de décès – ask for about a dozen. It is this acte de décès, rather than the medical death certificate, that you will need to use for most subsequent formalities. Most mairies allow for internet declarations at http://vosdroits. service-public.fr/R1406.xhtml The mairie will provide a permis d’inhumer (burial permit). The burial may not take place until 24 hours after the death and no later than six days (not including Sundays and bank holidays). In the case of a violent death a judge must give permission for the release of a permis d’inhumer after a report by a pathologist and police.
Photo: mayanais/Flickr
Avoid any further distress: know what to do in event of a death A burial can range from 2130 to 7620, says mutuelle Mutac, while
“
It is best to call several funeral firms. If they will not answer questions on the phone, drop that firm
Authorisation to take the body out of the commune where the coffin was sealed must be obtained from the mairie. Funeral planning The death of someone close is always a traumatic experience and further emotional distress can be caused when the death occurs in a country where you are not familiar with both the language and local procedures and administrations. Where possible it is advisable to ask for the help of a native speaker – ideally someone who will remain calm and level-headed to avoid further distress. Take time to choose the right funeral director’s firm. The placing in the coffin (mise en cercueil) usually happens at the place where the person died. Wherever a death takes place, no one can impose removal of the body to the deceased’s home or to a chambre funéraire without permission from
the family. The only exception is where the director of a home attests in writing he was unable to contact family members in 10 hours after the death. In such a case he can arrange a transfer, at the establishment’s cost. A body can stay in a private home or retirement home for up to six days. Unless the deceased made specific provisions, you need to organise the funeral – choose the funeral director’s (pompes funèbres) which will arrange the obsèques – convoy, placing in the coffin, transport of the body etc. A list of firms can be found at the mairie. It is recommended to ask for a devis (estimate) explaining what services are covered and the costs, before signing a contract. Since January 2011 firms are required to use a set format for the estimate (un devis type). Since January 1998, funeral directors’ firms accredited by a préfecture may be selected anywhere in France. A list of certified funeral directors is available from town halls, mortuaries, crematoria and cemeteries. However, beware of guidebooks found in some mairies, as arrangements may exist between town halls and certain funeral directors. Before making arrangements with a particular funeral director, it is best to call several (if they will not answer questions on the phone, drop them). Matters you may want to check on include:
s
Practical 13
October 2012
Where possible it is advisable to ask for the help of a native speaker – ideally someone who will remain calm and level-headed to avoid further distress
in the coffin, to return it to the person’s home, to a chambre funéraire etc. The coffin and accessories Placing in the coffin and sealing it Transport of the body after sealing to the cemetery or crematorium etc. The funeral The burial or cremation
cremation ranges from 1920 to 4290 Prices for either: – an equipped oak coffin (cercueil en chêne equipé) for burial in a cemetery (equipped means with inner lining, handles, plaque, screws etc.), or – a coffin equipped for cremation (cercueil équipé destiné à la crémation), or – an equipped and zinc coated coffin (cercueil zingué et équipé), for shipment abroad. The cost of a hearse (corbillard) and pallbearers, as well as the number of pallbearers (porteurs). Transport or repatriation costs if appropriate. After you have made a request to a funeral director you should receive a detailed estimate (devis), free and with no obligation. Do not accept a simple verbal response, a draft or an approximate price scribbled on a business card. By law as of 2011 it should include the following: Preparation and organisation of the funeral Transport of the body before placing
Request an explanation of each cost item: Sometimes an identical service or product may be added more than once. All terms, especially if they use vague expressions, should be explained. Numerous terms may describe a process of preservation using formaldehyde – conservation, thanatopraxie, soins somatiques, présentation, art réstauratif, formolisation or IFT. Other methods of preservation include dry ice (glace carbonique) or a refrigerated bed (which may be used in retirement homes) or in a refrigerated facility in a mortuary. Preservation with formaldehyde is not obligatory (except for repatriation to certain countries, including the UK). Ask for a written description of the coffin (type of wood, thickness, colour, finish) and accessories. If you accept the conditions of the estimate given to you, a purchase order (bon de commande) is then drafted. You are contracting that funeral director and are contractually liable to pay the bill. Any change afterwards on the purchase order must be added to the estimate in your possession or a new estimate must be made stipulating each and every service and material. If the funeral is to be paid for out of the deceased’s estate – where the funeral director can seek payment directly from the bank, up to 3,049 – get the estimate before suggesting this method, as some firms may bill suspiciously close to this limit in such a case. Note that you may incur other expenses: publication in the press, death announcement cards, flower arrangements, monument (if not included in the funeral director’s bill), religious service.
Death in France helpguide – updated The Connexion newspaper has published a 2012 revised helpguide Death in France, from which the information above is extracted. It explains what to do when someone dies, the formalities, financing a funeral, organ donation, choosing a funeral director and much
Download a copy for 5 at www.connexionfrance.com or call 0800 91 77 56 for a printed version to be sent to you
Organ donations In France it is assumed you want to donate your organs after you die. When a person dies, medical authorities can use their organs for transplants unless the deceased made his or her wish not to donate known, by registering on the Registre des Refus or by telling their close family, who will be consulted if someone is not on the register. The register is managed by the Agence de la Biomédecine (who can be found at www.agence-biomedecine.fr). In fact however, organs are only taken following about 1% of deaths in hospital, as the person needs to have died in a limited range of circumstances for their organs to be useable. If you are in favour of organ donation, you should tell your close family so they can relay your wishes. In the absence of inscription on the refusal register they will be consulted and their decision will be respected. They can also pass on your wishes if you did not want certain organs to be used. You should also carry an organ donation card (carte de donneur d’organes): this has no legal force but helps clarify your wishes. There is no age restriction to ask for a donor card, but in the event of someone dying under the age of 18, organ removal can only take place upon parental authorisation. To apply for a free donor card visit www.france-adot.org/ demande-carte-donneur.php When someone dies and has not opted out of the organ donation process, the medical teams will aim to make sure their organs are maintained in working order. Once the organs are removed care is taken to maintaining the appearance of the body before returning it to the family who will proceed with the burial/cremation process (with the associated costs). The medical costs involved, along with potential transportation between hospitals depending on the availability of the relevant medical team, are covered by the deceased’s social security. Note also that there is a significant difference between donating organs and donating one’s body to science. Léguer son corps à la science means donating one’s entire body for use by a medical school. The body will not be returned to the family. The deceased will have to make financial provisions for their body to be transported to the nearest medical school upon their death.
Key vocabulary Le certificat de décès = death certificate Le bureau d’état-civil = register office Le/la défunt/e = deceased person Une autopsie = autopsy Le médecin légiste = pathologist Une enquête = inquest Le/la dirigeant/e de pompes-funèbres = undertaker/ funeral director La chambre mortuaire = mortuary in a hospital, hospice or clinic where people’s bodies are preserved in refrigerated cases Le reposoir = Room in a retirement home where a person’s body may be kept, before or after being placed in the coffin. Not refrigerated, therefore some preservation technique may be applied. La chambre funéraire = private or municipal mortuary where body may be kept before burial or cremation, often run by funeral directors. Le cercueil = coffin Le corbillard = hearse Le porteur = pallbearer La thanatopraxie = embalming Le rapatriement = repatriation (Entreprise de) pompes funèbres = funeral directors (company) Le maître de cérémonie/ ordonnateur or monteur de convoi = all indicate a person from the funeral director’s firm who looks after the family during the funeral (may be one of the porteurs). Une inhumation = burial – en pleine terre = in the ground – en caveau = vault Une concession funéraire = cemetery plot – concession de famille = family only – concession collective = family and others – concession individuelle = one person only – temporaire = temporary – trentenaire = 30 years – cinquantenaire = 50 years – perpétuelle = in perpetuity Le caveau = vault La tombe = grave La mise en bière/mettre
Photo: mayanais/Flickr
“
en bière = placing in the coffin La veillée mortuaire = wake Les cendres = ashes Une urne funéraire/ cinéraire = funeral urn Un columbarium - facility for storing cinerary urns (columbarium) Obsèques = the funeral (the term les funerailles also exists but is less used and implies a grand ceremony) – civiles = civil – religieuses = religious Le deuil/ être en deuil = bereavement / to be bereaved or in mourning Un enterrement/aller à l'enterrement de… = burial/ going to someone’s burial/ funeral Les condoléances/présenter/offrir/faire ses condoléances = to offer somebody one’s sympathy Une lettre de condoléances = letter of sympathy. Example: Monsieur et Madame X vous prient de recevoir leurs très sincères condoléances et l'expression de leur profonde sympathie. La marbrerie funéraire = monumental masonry – en marbre = made of marble – en granit = granite - en pièrre = made of stone La stèle = headstone La plaque = plaque Gravé(e) = engraved
14 Leisure Time
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
Sponsored by French-themed crossword
What’s in a word?
Easy
Down
2. Stew of haricot beans and pork or other meat, famously made in Castelnaudary (9) 8. Toponymous jeans cloth, serge __ _____ (2,5) 9. Actress Sophia _____, who became a French citizen in 1966 because of legal and tax problems in her native land (5) 10. Tart filled in England with a sweet or savoury mixture, in France with custard (4) 11. Fields in Greek myth which gave their name to Paris thoroughfare (7) 13. Fruits of evergreen oleaceous trees (6) 15. Basic unit of electric current named after French physicist and mathematician (6) 18. Highly-prized delicacy sought by a pig or dog (7) 20. Fabric for which Chantilly was once famous (4) 23. French and German “yes” provide equipment for contact with the other side (5) 24. Scholar and theologian remembered chiefly for his love for Héloïse (7) 25. Dish once served at dinners between main course and dessert (9)
1. Nobel prize-winning Parisian author of L’Immoraliste and La Symphonie Pastorale (4) 2. Waterway such as that built by Pierre-Paul Riquet (5) 3 and 12. Normandy-born English soldier and scourge of the Cathars (5,2,8) 4. Edible bivalve mollusc farmed in the Étang de Thau (6) 5. Composer at Louis XIV’s court who also wrote for plays by 16 down (5) 6. Bread and butter, _______ de beurre (7) 7. Classified ads – petites ________ (8) 12. See 3 14. Useless in French and rarely, too, in English (7) 16. Pseudonym of dramatist Jean-Baptiste Poquelin (7) 17. French Parliament chamber at the Luxembourg Palace (6) 19. Sumptuous meal or a religious celebration (5) 21. Due to their behaviour some of these crustaceans are known in France as dormeurs (5) 22. Four-letter acronymn for broadband (4)
by Paul Masters
biscuit encore or the street numbering and the wheaten biscuit? In the meaning, quite simply, where bis denotes “for a second time”. Biscuits were originally placed in the oven twice: once before the bread was cooked, and once again afterwards, as the oven cooled down. The second time was intended to dry them thoroughly rather than to cook them any more: for dried biscuits kept much longer, and were a staple part of the diet on long sea voyages, for instance, in centuries past. And so biscuit, in fact, simply means “cooked twice”.
Intermediate
The France quiz 1 WHICH sports personality turned musician has been named the most popular person in France for the ninth year running? 2 WHICH French actor was thrown off a Dublin flight last year for urinating in his seat, and now stands accused of punching a driver in a road rage incident in Paris? 3 HOW many medals did France win in this summer’s Olympic Games? And in what position did the country end up in the medals table? 4 WHICH hotel in the French capital is being stripped of its famous name because of declining standards? 5 WHEN is France’s next public holiday? 6 WHO is the captain of the French national football team? 7 ROCKY is a power-crazed leader in a new French novel that is causing a stir. On which politician is it based?
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga representing France at the Olympics
Difficult
CROSSWORD ANSWERS. Across 2 cassoulet; 8 de Nîmes; 9 Loren; 10 flan; 11 Elysian; 13 olives; 15 ampere; 18 truffle; 20 lace; 23 ouija; 24 Abélard; 25 entremets Down 1 Gide; 2 canal; 3 Simon de Montfort; 4 oyster; 5 Lully; 6 tartine; 7 annonces; 12 See 3; 14 inutile; 16 Molière; 17 Senate; 19 feast; 21 crabs; 22 ADSL FRANCE QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. Yannick Noah; 2. Gérard Depardieu; 3. 34, seventh place; 4. Paris Hilton; 5. November 1 (Toussaint); 6. Didier Deschamps; 7. Nicolas Sarkozy
Sudoku
Across
Photo: carine06/Flickr
AS the concert ends, the performers acknowledge the applause, but the audience is still so moved, and the performers still so fuelled by the emotion of the performance that they coincide in calling for, and granting a bonus item. This is, of course, the encore. Yet the audience may not be crying out “encore”, but using the shorter but sibilant alternative “bis, bis”. In the street outside, you may notice the word again, written above door ways and entrances. The building may have been number 12, but it has been divided into 12A and 12B, as we would say in English, or Douze and Douze bis. The ancient word bis has this meaning of again, or for a second time, and these are probably the only two surviving uses of a little word with its best days long ago. So, where’s the link between the musical
by John Foley
Languedoc Pages
Food and Pets 15
October 2012
Tender and juicy lamb is a French speciality
Thick round fillet of lamb stuffed à la provençale ingredients
For the lamb fillet 55ml olive oil 4x225g lamb breasts, trimmed salt and pepper For the stuffing 300g lamb mince 125g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 55g fresh breadcrumbs 55g black olives, pitted 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 small onions, finely chopped salt and pepper For the garnish small handful of vine cherry tomatoes small bunch of thyme sprigs
Method Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan) or gas mark 5. Combine all the ingredients for the stuffing in a food processor and pulse until it comes together. Transfer to a mixing bowl and set to one side. Place the lamb breasts on a chopping board and create pockets in them using a sharp knife. Fill with the lamb mince stuffing and rub their outsides with olive oil. Season the outsides generously and
Photo: Bilic/Photocuisine
for centuries. They feed on a rich variety of plants that are flooded by the huge bay tides, and the high salt levels and iodine-rich content makes their muscles more moist and the meat darker and juicier. Contrary to popular belief, the meat itself does not taste of salt. Agneau pré-salé has been awarded an Appelation d’Origine Controlée label. Similar to French cheeses and champagne, this means that only lambs that graze on certain salt marsh areas can be sold under this name. A leg of salt marsh lamb is delicious roasted – it requires just a seasoning of salt and pepper to bring out its unique flavour – but in this recipe we are taking a different approach, on a provençal theme.
Serves: 4 Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 25-30 minutes
Lambs grazing on the salt marshes of the Somme and the Mont-Saint-Michel produce meat that is incredibly succulent and has an exceptional taste – and now is a great time of year for buying lamb with the best flavour AUTUMN is an ideal time of year for lamb - it is generally available in France until the end of October and tends to be much more flavourful than spring lamb because of the maturity of the meat. It makes the perfect partner for autumnal produce from the garden - sweet or savoury whether orchard fruit or root vegetables. For an extra-special meltin-the-mouth experience, try salt-marsh lamb (agneau présalé), which is highly prized for being succulently tender and has an incredible flavour because of the unique way the animals are raised. Commonly mistranslated by English-speakers as “ready salted”, these lambs have grazed on the estuary salt marshes of the Somme and the Mont-Saint-Michel bay
CUT OUT & KEEP!
tie with kitchen string to secure. Heat a large ovenproof frying pan over a moderate heat until hot. Seal the stuffed lamb breasts in batches until golden brown in colour all over. Once all the lamb breasts are sealed, cover with the cherry tomatoes and
thyme stalks. Transfer to the oven to finish cooking for 12-15 minutes until the filling is cooked. Remove from the oven and let the lamb rest for 5 minutes covered loosely with aluminium foil. Remove the string before serving.
Treats are key when house training dogs HOUSE training takes time and patience but done the right way, first results appear fast. The first principle is that accidents are the owner’s fault, not the dog’s: the owner should have taken the dog out so that she did not need to go indoors. So never punish your dog for puddles in the house – just clean up any accidents without fuss. The next principle is to prevent the dog peeing inside the house. Do this by watching her like a hawk. At the first sign of wanting a pee (wandering around sniffing things), take her out. Also take her out first thing in the morning, after meals and last thing at night. Puppies should be taken out every two hours; they cannot hold on for longer.
Photo: C. E. Price/Public Domain Images
With encouragement and treats, your dog will soon learn the rules about going to the toilet – but you must keep up the routine, advises SAMANTHA DAVID
Pet Care If you cannot watch your dog, shut her into an outdoors run (weather permitting) or a small easy-to-clean space such as a utility room or kitchen. That way at least accidents will be easy to clean. Only a properly house-trained dog should be given the run of the house. At night, shut your dog into a purpose built dog crate (available on the internet) filled with comfy bedding, toys and a treat. The crate should be big enough for the dog to stand up, stretch, turn round and lie down in
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You can normally train a dog to stay clean indoors within a few days but no bigger. Given that you have walked your dog last thing before bed, she should easily be able to stay dry until the morning. If your dog does not like the crate to begin with, use more treats to change her mind. Kindness and persistence are key. Do not use the crate other than at night. While you are doing all that, you must also reward your dog massively for doing the right thing. The
minute she pees outdoors, pat her, praise her and give her a bit of dog sausage or other titbit. Every single time the dog pees, even if it is 20 times in one walk, you should praise, caress and give treats. It will not take your dog long to figure out that urinating indoors leads to nothing but doing it outdoors leads to a dog treat. While you are doing this you can if you like, simultaneously teach a ver-
bal command. As your dog pees, you repeat the command (I use “go quickly”) over and over. When she finishes, you give the praise and treat. Eventually, when you say “Go quickly” your dog will start sniffing at likely tree trunks. Within a day or two, your dog will be clean in the house. But in order to make this permanent, you have to continue with all elements of the training routine for at least six months. Any backsliding and you have to start the routine again. If a properly house-trained dog suddenly starts wetting the house, the cause could be either emotional or physical. Has someone moved out? Has another pet passed on? If there is no obvious emotional cause, it could be physical. Uncastrated male dogs commonly suffer from prostrate problems and females from urinary infections such as cystitis, which can cause them to make unaccustomed puddles. If you do not have time to train a dog following the above method, the sad truth is that you probably do not have time to keep a dog at all.
Tel. 06 58 01 82 76 Web. www.seulementnaturel.eu Email. marc.somsen@chardeyre.com
16 Directory
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
Advertise here ALL YEAR from just 75HT Call free on 0800 91 77 56 or email directory@connexionfrance.com
LANGUEDOC DIRECTORY English-speaking firms near you For your security, we check that the French businesses in this section are officially registered with the authorities
Find registered tradespeople quickly and easily By advertising in our directory you get the chance to run advertorials (the articles you see on these pages). We are currently offering these at a two for one price, so two x 1/4 page advertorials, maximum 400 words plus photo, costs just 200HT. A minimum two month break between publishing applies and the second advertorial is a repeat of the first. If you wish to change the second there is a 25 fee together with a 15 fee if you want us to provide a photo.
We will keep you up to date with features and special events in your area of France in all our publications which could help to boost your business. We include the text from your advertisement in our online directory for no extra charge. Want to advertise in our national paper The Connexion or sister papers in other regions? Call the number above for more details.
ADVERTISING FEATURES
Property business booming despite euro crisis Houses on Internet can help home owners sell their French property without the use of an estate agent
Company founder Richard Kroon
HOUSES on Internet, the successful, fast growing internet marketing company that helps people sell their French property without the use of an estate agent, has not been affected by the on-going euro crisis. “The key to our success is without doubt our extensive global network which enables us to reach prospective buyers wherever they are,” said Richard Kroon, company founder and director. “This does not mean that we are not surprised ourselves about the high number of property sales that we realised in these insecure times.” To date, 2011 was the company’s best year ever, with a turnover increase of approximately 25% compared to the previous year.
“I never expected we could top those numbers so soon, but the reality is that 2012 shows an increase in sales of about 30% compared to 2011,” said Richard. With buyers from Australia, Russia, USA and Canada, as well as from European countries including Switzerland, Germany and Finland, Richard explains that the best way to reach people remains
“
The reality is that 2012 shows an increase in sales of about 30% compared to 2011
Official translations delivered in 24 hours From birth certificates to driving licences and housing documents, sworn translator Karen Renel-King will translate any official documents quickly, accurately and at a competitive price SWORN translator Karen Renel-King has provided fast, efficient and reasonably priced official translations for more than two decades. From birth, marriage and death certificates, to driving licences, diplomas and contracts. Karen can accurately translate any document in as little as 24 hours. “Most people who move to France don’t know just how many documents there are to fill in, or which ones they will need to translate,” said Karen. “For instance, a lot of people presume that their birth certificate will be accepted in its original form, but this is not the
case. A notaire, mairie, préfecture or social security office will require legally translated documents with an official stamp. This is what I can provide.” Karen runs King Translations and has more than 25 years’ experience in commercial and legal translation. After gaining a qualification in translation and interpreting from the Sorbonne in Paris, she became a member of the professional translators association in France, the Société Française des Traducteurs. “What people want in a translator is a simple, fast and efficient service and this is exactly what I provide,” said Karen.
Le Palais des Chats Exclusive hotel for cats 35 minutes from Perpignan Collection/delivery available Carol and Stuart Metcalfe
04 68 96 40 80 Email: stuinfrance@aol.com Website: lepalaisdeschats.com
Accepting documents by email, fax or post, Karen works with companies and individuals all over the world. “I deal with translation agencies throughout France and England,” said Karen. “Because people can send both documents and payment online, I can complete translations from all over the world within a day. The documents I produce are recognised everywhere from Australia to the UK. I have different stamps to show they have been certified.”
“
What people want in a translator is a simple, fast and efficient service and this is exactly what I provide Boutique cat and dog hotel
Home from Home 3km from Beziers.
English: John 04 67 36 63 38 French: Ian 06 81 16 39 30 John4pawsbeziers@aol.com www.4pawsbeziers.com
the same - clever internet marketing and a top Google ranking. “The advantage of the euro crisis is, of course, that this currency is now relatively cheap for countries outside the euro-zone, which makes buying French property an interesting investment.” Richard has also noted an increase in another group of perhaps unexpected buyers this year - Belgians. In particular those living in the northern part of Belgium, where Dutch is the primary language. “It seems that a lot of these people do not speak English or French and therefore cannot be reached by national or international websites that just try to sell houses in these languages,” said Richard. “For these people it is a huge advantage that we present every property in three languages, including Dutch. And they must be telling each other that Houses on Internet is the place to be, because the number of sales to people from northern
Belgium has increased over 400%.” Feedback has shown that people not only appreciate the fact that they can fully understand the adverts, but also that they get replies in their own language and if required, a continued translation service until a sale is made. Richard works on the principle ‘think global, act local’: “It is extremely important to have a well-functioning global network in order to reach as many people as possible.” “But when you actually talk to a prospective buyer, that personal touch, flexibility and multi-lingual service is what makes the difference.” To sign up to sell a property through Houses on Internet, visit their website and fill out the form on the page 'Selling a Property.' Call backs will be made the same day. 05 55 65 12 19 www.housesoninternet.com
Karen also regularly works with notaires to translate house contracts, leases and deeds from French to English and vice-versa. “When buying or renting a house, the best thing to do is have all documents translated so that there is no confusion," said Karen. In cases that require legal translation it is essential that all wording is accurate, leaving no room for ambiguity. As well as being costly, mistakes can slow up a process , so it is well worth sending documents to a professional. Karen accepts payment by PayPal, cheque or bank transfer. “I start work on a translation as soon as payment is received and aim to have the official translation with the customer as soon as possible,” she added. 09 67 01 45 86 / 06 18 03 18 38 karen.king@wanadoo.fr www.traductionassermentee.net
Sworn translator Karen Renel-King
VILLASOPHIE Your architect in Languedoc Roussillon Design permits and plans for new builds and renovations
04 68 20 04 31 info@villasophie.eu www.villasophie.eu
Directory 17
October 2012
Languedoc Pages
Don’t waste your time with amateurs We design professional websites, highly Google-ranked, that sell.
Tel: 04 67 38 17 64 Email: alex@mywebspinners.com Website: www.mywebspinners.com Siret: 450 096 193 00021
- Regions covered: All
Project Management Registered Insured New Builds, Renovation Building Permits Authorisation Insurance claims Negotiation & Support
Sam Stokes - 06 14 38 10 29 sam.stokes@wanadoo.fr
INTERNATIONAL RENOVATION LANGUEDOC 11190 MONTAZELS
Artisan Builder - All Renovation Works Pool Installation/Security - Aude Tel: 06 37 64 40 58 Email: colm.mcgowran@wanadoo.fr Siret 48515658200028
Carpenter/Joiner
All interior, Exterior woodwork References, Portfolio available Area 34 only
Contact Details Michael Murray 0467775894/0671526193 michael.murray20@orange.fr
To advertise here call freephone in France 0800 91 77 56 / from UK 0844 256 9881 (4p/min)
Exclusive Healthcare
HOUSES ON INTERNET
Your Helping Hand to the French Health System
Sell your property to a worldwide audience using our global network. Our fees are the lowest in France, our results are the best. WWW. HOUSESONINTERNET.COM
Siret No: 50066265500017
Paul Hockings SATISFYING CUSTOMER NEEDS in Joinery and Building works since 1980. MIni Digger available.
Tel +33 (0) 4 68 77 05 96 Email: paulhockings57@gmail.com Siret: 51271440300015
Skydigi - based in Languedoc 04 68 87 18 30 www.skydigi.tv Ad No. 19225
Digi TV Solutions
UK certified
04 66 72 75 84 peter.bober@dbmail.com
Women’s International Club Mediterranée meets in Florensac 2nd Thursday each month. All nationalities welcome
Justin Harrison, Central heating Engineer/Plumber and David Hodgskin, Electrician Full renovations / repairs in Aude
justin.plumber@yahoo.fr 06 65 06 05 74 www.justinharrison.net cascade_paysagiste@yahoo.fr 06 33 38 87 38 Ad No. 17780
Tel: 04 67 77 19 06
Wendy McKnight - 06 38 88 27 79 wcantor@earthlink.net
Psychotherapy & Art Therapy Explore yourself Debra Rogers 06 31 23 33 43 drogerz@hotmail.com US licensed Near Pezenas 20 years experience
www.wicmediterranee.org
Roofing, Scaffolding Heavy Structural Building
04 68 98 03 24 Renovation / repairs - References supplied Established 30 years- 10 in France
Tel: +33 (0) 4 68 20 29 91 Mob: +33 (0) 6 07 27 37 56 E mail: martinwest@orange.fr Siret no : 44383409800016
Ward Building Services Renovation to Decoration Extensions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, tiling, stonework, Patios, terraces. Free estimates Tel: Mike 04 68 24 45 05 / 06 33 28 48 72 Email: frbuilder@yahoo.com Siret: 50400085200013
P.O.INTERIORS RENOVATION - KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, TOTAL RENOVATION AND CARPENTRY, DECKING, TERRACES AND MUCH MORE
Tel. 06 72 42 07 04 DEPT 66
interiors66po@aol.com
CERTIFIED TRANSLATIONS All legal translations by FrenchEnglish speaking sworn translator Property-legal-birth cert., driving licences traductions assermentées Valid everywhere with 25 years of experience Regions : All FRANCE Karen RENEL-KING Tel: 06 18 03 18 38 Email: karen.king@wanadoo.fr www.certifiedfrenchtranslation.com Fast and affordable Siret: 38058374000028
French Without Tears
One to One Language Course. Tuition with Accomodation www.cours-a-cucugnan.com Tel: 06 78 15 19 29 Siret: 521701474 - Ad No. 17685
Siret: 494 683 931 00021
General Builder
Sarah Wafflard
Established 2011 in the Aude Can manufacture shutters, doors, stairs windows and kitchens
Language services at reasonable rates for individual & business clients
Tel: +33 (0) 4 68 78 72 51 Mobile +33 (0) 6 19 95 87 50 10 Email: james.gordon-roe@orange.fr
Tel: 04 68 27 10 51 www.digitvsolutions.com Siret: 503480675 00019
Les Jours Heureux 66 For all things Property in Dept 66!
www.lesjoursheureux66.com
Dept 66 / 11
BUILDER/CARPENTER/PLUMBER
Installation of UK and French TV, and broadband via satellite. We also install home cinema and surround sound systems. Specialist in gites and hotel multipoint systems.
Property Sales Management & Holiday Rentals All year round maintenance service Visit the website:
hussellbuilding.com
MARTIN WEST
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relieve pain and learn how to move with freedom and ease
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Call Angie
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For all your UK Tv and Radio solutions
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Domestic and Commercial Cleaning You'll be swept away by our service!
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Tel: 05 55 65 12 19
Pete's Roofing
ANGIE NETTOYAGE
FRENCH INSURANCE IN ENGLISH For people who live in / own property in France Straight-forward, honest advice on the best house, car, life & health insurance policies for you Over 15 years experience in French insurance markets English, Dutch & German spoken. Philippe Schreinemachers www.insurance.fr Tel: 05 62 29 20 00 Email: contact@insurance.fr RCS Auch B479 400 657 - Regions: All France
The Spectrum IFA Group Regulated, qualified and experienced advisers providing independent financial advice. Investments, retirement, inheritance planning, Insurance, mortgages. Mail: info@spectrum-ifa.com for your nearest adviser. With care, you prosper. Ad No. 16706
and contact me: Ruby Laura Goold 06 38 73 15 62
Sky In France
Sky, Freesat & French TV
Perfect Property Management Quality House & Swimming Pool Management in the Languedoc
Tel: +33 (0) 4 99 57 05 89 Mobile: +33 (0) 6 68 89 23 30 Web: perfectpropertymanagement.com Email: trudi@ppm34.fr Siret: 51215779300013
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Office: 05 63 59 85 16 www.skyinfrance.co.uk Please see our main advert in the Connexion
AUDE & HERAULT
Need someone to help with property maintenance problems, home improvements, renovations, Exteriors, Gardens & Pools. Contact Anthony Main 0033 (0)468 783 696 email: anthonymain.fr@gmail.com www.midibuilder.com Siret 4846 8735 500012
Colombiers Property Services Professional Property & Pool Management in Herault. Handyman Services also available. 10yrs experience - Siret reg.
Tel: 04 67 89 36 98 Mob: 06 73 96 84 87 Colombierspropertyservices@neuf.fr
Smithy’s Ferronnerie
Metalwork & Welding - Gates Balconies Handrails - Fences Staircases - Pergolas Anything You Want!
www.smithysferronerie.com 04 68 94 28 64 or 06 73 95 92 57 smithysferronnerie@hotmail.com Siret No: 497 605 550 00019
Holiday Villa Rental in the Languedoc & Provence We offer a friendly and personal touch service through our in-depth knowledge of all properties and local areas. Property Management Services available.
Tel: 04 67 49 17 94 Email: info@southfranceholidayvillas.co.uk
www.southfranceholidayvillas.co.uk
Drain Clear
Interior & Exterior Drain Clearance
Sworn Translator Interpreter
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Siret No: 501 541 031 00016
DICK FOWLER CONSTRUCTION Pool design and build Also other house renovation and construction works fowlerbatiment@gmail.com Phone: 06 70 91 12 17
Save up to 25 % on Septic Tank installation
For all drainage problems call James Southern
Tel: 04 68 32 06 17 Email: james.southern@wanadoo.fr
Spex4less.Com High Quality Prescription Glasses Online Save Money On All Your Prescription Eyewear www.spex4less.com
Ad No. 18691
COMPUTER SUPPORT AND HELPDESK http://www.montolieu-it-service.eu Tel: 06 79 99 75 20 Email: montolieu-it-service@sfr.fr Covering AUDE and all Departments within 100 km of CARCASSONNE. Siret :489 920 124 00018
Looking for a property? Let us search for you And save money Contact Susannah on
Tel: 04 67 24 31 42 Mob: 06 52 75 24 45 Email: chris@househunterslanguedoc.com www.househunterslanguedoc.com
Management
ALPACA WOOL and KNITWEAR
Visit our website www.franceandbeyond.co.uk Contact Adele / Iain Tel: 06 43 54 46 91 email: info@franceandbeyond.co.uk
Siret 529 235 053
FAB Property Efficient, Reliable Changeover and Maintenance Service
Knitting Yarns, Accessories, Fleeces For Spinning www.polfagesalpacas.com email: jane@polfagesalpacas.com
18 DIY
Languedoc Pages
2012 Helpguide to Local Taxes
PROFESSIONAL
Whether you own or rent a main home or holiday home in France, you will be subject to French local taxes - and this is the time of year when bills are arriving. The Connexion has published a revised helpguide to help you understand what these taxes are, who must pay them, what makes you eligible for reductions or exemptions and the deadlines and means of payment. It includes two pages of reader Questions and Answers
Especially written for Britons living in France.
Published September 1, 2012
BUILDERS
Tree house is an adventure for all Photo: Jonathan Billinger a/Geograph.org.uk
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October 2012
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Building a tree house is a project for the whole family AT HALF-term this month why not get the children involved in building a tree house? Obviously younger ones will not be able to help much with the initial construction, but they could be detailed to make a simple ladder, or tie knots in a thick rope or even make a tin can phone (two empty food tins connected by a length of string). It is possible to construct a tree house even if you do not have a likely tree in your garden by supporting the structure on stilts. It is however fun to have at least some tall vegetation surrounding the tree house. There are lots of designs available, but the simplest remains a few planks nailed to the branches and a rope ladder for access. This is really only suitable for older children however. To find ready-made railings and all sorts of other inspiring used building materials at good prices, find your nearest Emmaüs in the Pages Jaunes (pagesjaunes.fr) as they offer absolutely everything for sale. Alternatively, search the same site for Matériaux de recuperation or ask around locally to track down a dealer in la recupe in your area. These are people who collect building materials from demolition sites and sell them on, and are great places for hunting out old staircases, fantastic wrought iron balcony railings and antique doors. If you do have a suitable tree, such as a plane tree with a wide, sturdy trunk, then you can start by constructing a boxy framework around the tree comprising four legs and the base of a platform. If you bury the supporting posts into wet concrete you will need less cross bracing but if you use an above-ground foundation (ie: a footer) then the posts will last longer. Once you have got some planks down on the platform to make a solid floor, add some railings and attach the ladder. You can also transfer some of the weight from the platform to the base of the tree trunk by using diagonal braces from the outside edges of the platform. The tree house’s future inhabitants might not do a great job of applying wood preservative, but the task will keep them occupied for hours. The important thing is not building the perfect tree house but introducing children to the fun and satisfaction of working with their hands. Source an organic or child-safe product at the DIY store. Good features for children to help with are suspending a tyre from a nearby branch, and putting holes in the corners of an old tin tray so it can be attached to a rope and used to haul feasts up into the tree house. More features, like extended decking, a rope ladder, a roof, a fixed staircase, and a firepole would be great projects for a later date – say, spring half term.
Languedoc Pages
Home and Garden 19
October 2012
Facts
Photo: Grégoire Lannoy on Flickr
Gardening Staging a
spooky party
Sponsored by
Photo: Dan4th Nicholas/Flickr
Keep the lawn raked free of leaves over the autumn
Getting ready for the winter
THE spookiest month of the year has come round – it is time to get the house ready for Halloween. Although it is not as big tradition in France as it is in the US or the UK, Halloween has gained in popularity over the last few years. The most celebrating goes on in Limoges – there is an annual parade on October 31 where people dress up and carry candlelit pumpkins. The annual Witch Festival in Chalindrey falls just before Halloween, and Toussaint, All Saints’ Day, is the day after. Across the country there are celebrations at cafes, bars and homes. There is even growing demand for pumpkins towards the end of October and some grocery shops and supermarkets have pumpkin carving displays in preparation for the 31st. Patisseries, chocolate shops and bakeries often decorate their shop windows with orange and black displays. However, if you are looking to buy decorations, apart from fancy-dress shops, you are best off buying online.
Halloween his not as widely celebrated in France as the UK or US, but if you want to arrange a special day for the children, REBECCA LAWN has some tips on preparing the house and where to find materials goes without saying that the Jack-o-lantern is the most traditional Halloween decoration, and lots of fun to carve. For other decorations to make with the kids, you may need: different coloured paints, coloured pipe cleaners and marker pens. You should be able to get these from local arts and crafts shops. To make spiders, you will need an egg carton, eight pipe cleaners and some black paint. Cut out each egg cup and paint it black. For the eyes, either use white paint to create little dots or glue on wiggle eyes. For the legs, make four small holes on two sides of the cup and insert a black or coloured pipe cleaner in each hole and stick them to the cup. You then just need some thread to hang the spider. You could also create a whole
French sites netbootic.com, ledeguisement.com and fetespar-fetes.com have a selection of scary decorations. For more choice, check out UK sites which deliver. You do not have to be a crafts expert to create your own decorations – and all the family can get involved. It
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You do not have to be a crafts expert to create your own decorations – and all the family can get involved
host of spooky silhouettes of ghosts, cats and bats. If you or your children are hosting a Halloween party, make sure to dim the lights and have a CD of creepy noises such as doors banging or ghoulish sounds on in the background. You could even replace lights with black light bulbs, stick up figures that glow in the dark and have orange and white streamers hanging from the ceiling and across windows and doorways. To make your home into a deserted haunted house, you could cover furniture with white sheets, and opt for black decorations and tableware. For your front garden, you could cordon off an area with yellow tape like that which is used at crime scenes. As for trick-or-treating, it is not a French tradition and you could get mixed reactions. In some areas, it is becoming the norm, but if you are not sure, it is probably best to go round to friends’ houses or talk to your neighbours in advance about it, to see if they would agree. And stock up on sweets, just in case. Photo: Public Domain Images
Photo: Public Domain Images
OCTOBER is the month to start battening down the autumn hatches, although it is worthwhile keeping an eye on next spring as you do it. Plant bulbs if you have not already done so, including tulips, either in the ground or in pots. If you want a natural-looking drift of colour, throw the bulbs up in the air and plant them where they fall. Bring pot plants inside to avoid any early frosts, acclimatising them slowly if possible. Check over any pots which are staying outside – any cracked ones will break at the first frost. To prevent rot, remove saucers and stand pots on bricks for the winter. Pick any pumpkins or gourds and put them somewhere cool to start drying out. Give the lawn a last feed with a slow-acting fertiliser to encourage root growth. Lay new turf if necessary. Keep the lawn raked free of leaves, to prevent rot, but let them lie on herbaceous beds and borders. Build a leaf mould heap by knocking four posts into the ground and stapling chicken wire around the outside. Pile all the leaves in, topping them up from time to time as the pile mulches down. Clear away the last of the summer toys, barbecues, hammocks, hosepipes, swings and the like. Put them away clean and repaired if you want a trouble-free start to next summer. Clear out and disinfect the greenhouse if you have one, and do not forget to clean the glass before moving plants in for the winter. Check the heater, if you have one. Cabbage can be picked and stored in a frost-free shed, as can the last of the root veg except parsnips. Pick the last of the green tomatoes and take them in for ripening on a windowsill, or make green tomato chutney with them. (They are good cut into thick slices and fried with bacon and eggs, too.) As the vegetable plot clears, dig it over roughly leaving any large clumps, and spread manure. The combined action of worms and weather will break the clumps down over the winter. Then spread manure. Dig over herbaceous beds and borders. Prune currant bushes now, and replant where needed. Also give large rose bushes a light pruning, and make sure they are tied up securely enough to withstand autumn winds. If you have any delicate plants, now is a good time to wrap them in sacking to protect them from the frost. Mulch heavily around the base. If you are looking for a fun garden project, make a bird feeder. There are various designs ranging from the most complex ornithological mansions to a simple bird table in the middle of the lawn. A rewarding bird treat can be made by filling a coconut shell (thread a string through it before you start) with a mix of melted animal fats, seeds and nuts. Once it is set, hang upside down well out of the reach of any neighbourhood felines.
There is growing demand for traditional Halloween pumpkins in grocery shops and supermarkets in France this month
20 Property
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
Houses for sale across France
Buying or selling a property? We can help.
Our website www.connexionfrance.com carries details of more than 14,000 homes for sale across France. We also feature properties for sale in this dedicated section of the paper each month. To find out more about any particular property, go to www.connexionfrance.com and enter the ref: code shown under the property.
advertising as well as a print advert in three editions of The Languedoc Pages. Our 6+6 package is best value at 330TTC and provides the same, but for six months via each channel.
New Consumption and Emission Chart - e.g. Energy rating C & F refers to C for Consumption and F for Emissions
Contact us on 0800 91 77 56 (freephone in France) or email sales@connexionfrance.com
More details on all these properties - and how to contact the seller directly - can be found in the property for sale section of
For sellers, the adverts are also displayed across a range of popular English- speaking websites and are seen by thousands of potential buyers EVERY day. Our 3+3 package costs just 200TTC and gives you three months online
www.connexionfrance.com
Simply enter the code under each home to find out more Properties in LANGUEDOC
55,000
82,000
99,000
Quillan, Aude Two bedroom renovated semi-detached stone house comprises kitchen/sitting room and shower room. Ideal holiday home.
Near Marseillette, Aude Three bedroom house consists lounge, kitchen and shower room.
Quillan, Aude Four bedroom house comprises dining room, kitchen, bathroom and garden.
Ref: 2091
Energy rating = F & D
Ref: 110151645
Energy rating = E & C
Ref: 2082
137,000
149,000
165,000
Quillan, Aude Three bedroom detached house consists of sitting room, dining room, kitchen, large bathroom, terrace and separate garage.
Clermont-l'Hérault, Hérault Two bedroom cottage consists of small lounge, large dining room, kitchen and bathroom.
Near Corbières, Aude Three bedroom house comprises living room, kitchen, bathroom and two terraces.
Ref: 2229
Energy rating = D & E
REF: 342431315
Energy rating = d & b
Ref: AV1012
185,000
210,000
225,000
Bessèges, Gard Two bedroom house consists of living room, kitchen/dining room, bathroom, shower room, terrace and garage.
Near Céret, Pyrénées-Orientales Two bedroom house and independent studio apartment includes large garden and swimming pool.
Cardet, Gard Four bedroom house consists of dining/living room, kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, terrace and garden.
Ref: IFPC22433
Energy rating = A & A
Ref: 2707
Energy rating = D
Ref: C334
262,500
280,000
315,000
Near Bagnols-sur-Cèze, Gard Three bedroom villa comprises living room, dining room, fitted kitchen, bathroom and garden.
Quillan, Aude Four bedroom house comprises sitting room, fitted kitchen, family bathroom, shower room, gardens, building plot and summer house.
Near Bagnols-sur-Cèze, Gard Three bedroom restored house consists of reception area with kitchen, two living rooms, dining room and patio.
Ref: 2500vm
Energy rating = C
Ref: 2203
Energy rating = d & a
Ref: 2492vm
344,500
363,000
390,000
Pieusse, Aude Five bedroom house comprises two living rooms, two kitchens, two bathrooms, covered terrace, barbecue terrace and swimming pool.
Near Caveirac, Gard Three bedroom house and studio apartment includes garden and swimming pool.
Capestang, Hérault Five bedroom house consists of three reception rooms, large kitchen/dining room, two bathrooms, two terraces and gardens.
REF: 700722
Energy rating = c
Ref: V788
Energy rating = B & B
REF: IFPC22685
415,000
445,000
486,500
Near Céret, Pyrénées-Orientales Six bedroom detached house comprises large living room, kitchen, three bathrooms, garage, garden, little garden house and swimming pool.
Sète, Hérault Two bedroom villa with stunning views over the lake comprises two living rooms, kitchen, bathroom, shower room, balcony/terrace, garden and swimming pool.
Pézenas, Hérault Five bedroom villa comprises living/dining room, kitchen, two bathrooms, utility room, garage, garden, carp pond, pool house and swimming pool.
Ref: 2491
Energy rating = D
REF: MLP340
Energy rating = c & a
Ref: LAR-615
499,000
510,000
564,000
Pézenas, Hérault Five bedroom villa comprises open plan living room, modern kitchen, dining room, bathroom, shower room, landscaped garden and large solar-heated pool.
Near Saint-Gilles, Gard Four bedroom villa and two bedroom guest house includes stables and 2,000m2 of land.
Carcassonne, Aude Four bedroom house consists of living room with terrace, kitchen, bathroom, double garage, swimming pool and garden.
Ref: S944
Energy rating = B & C
REF: Z114
Energy rating = D & C
Ref: 110154179
Energy rating = C & D
Energy rating = C
Energy rating = D & E
Energy rating = D & B
Energy rating = E & C
Energy rating = c & a
Energy rating = C&A
The adverts above cost from just 200TTC for three months of web advertising and three months of print advertising.
Let our distribution get you a sale. Contact our sales team on 0800 91 77 56 (freephone in France) or email sales@connexionfrance.com
Languedoc Pages
Business and Legal 21
October 2012
annette morris has lived in Languedoc for over four years. She works as a freelance internet marketing consultant and website developer, helping businesses optimise their online presence. Annette co-runs www.LaFranglaise.com and the Languedoc group of the Survive France network. Last year she started Languedoc Jelly, designed to promote the co-working concept to expats and English-speakers in France. In this regular column she shares her tips for the business community and would welcome readers’ questions and feedback.
VICTORIA Capon Bowen said when she launched her grocery shop and tea room near Clermont l’Hérault, the biggest challenge was “getting the money together and not listening to negative people”. She had managed a busy restaurant before moving to France 12 years ago and, after running a market stall for a few months to gauge customer interest, set up the shop. With orders already in for Christmas she expects to be busy. Victoria said her job centre gave invaluable support and she uses an accountant to answer administrative questions. Fiona Warren is a regional sales coordinator for a currency transfer company and said her commission-based job meant she had to be “patient, determined, prepared to work hard and be good at what you do!” She lives near Chalabre in the Aude and has been in France for three years. She confesses her French is not yet fluent but as she works largely with estate agents and English-speakers it is not a major drawback. She says online expat groups and forums are a good source of sales leads, as well as finding new contacts and a great means of promotion. Ruby Goold started a property management and sales business in PyrénéesOrientales two and a half years ago and has lived in France for 10 years. She says that starting up was a “gargantuan task” with local laid-back attitudes and the volumes of necessary paperwork. She has found membership of the local business group FAB-Networks a valuable source of support. Darren Kennedy lives near Béziers and has been working in France for 20 years. He and his young family relocated to the Hérault a couple of years ago from the Alps and, even with 18 years’ experience running a specialist ski shop, he confessed he underestimated how much renovation was required before they could open their B&B. They relied heavily on friends and family to get started. Like most bed and breakfasts, the busiest months are July and August. Darren is passionate about sports and has recently diversified and started a cycling holidays company. His advice to anyone planning a B&B is: “Choose a good location, do lots of research and make sure your business has a niche”. Winter can be a quiet time but it is peak season for Jane Potts who sells alpaca accessories and wool near Mirepoix. A former software trainer, she has lived in France for four years and runs an alpaca farm in the Aude. For her, the challenge was understanding all the tax, social and pension contributions.
www.languedocjelly.org www.lafranglaise.com www.station-coworking.com www.pinterest.com
To contact Annette Morris, call 07 86 14 16 39 or email Solutions@LaFranglaise.com Photo: © Alexander Raths - Fotolia.com
All expat business owners will have their own perspective on the highs and lows of setting up and running a business. This month I asked a few people, all with different skills and businesses, to share their advice and experiences.
Useful Websites
Photo: © TheSupe87 - Fotolia.com
5 start-up tips for business
Answered by
Legal Notes
Victoria Capon Bowen, Fiona Warren and Ruby Goold
Policy may give legal cover to help in disputes
Is an insurance policy worth it? I can take out legal insurance with my bank for a modest amount a month but I am wondering if it is worth it. What are these policies for? T.S.
Darren Kennedy, Jane Potts and Gill Pound
Mark Sayers, Ruth Lawson and Kylee Milner
Top 5 recommendations for starting a business n Do your research, then do it again n Be patient, French paperwork is a process, eventually you will get to the end n Improve your language skills n Find a good accountant n Visit your chamber of commerce Now she is spending time marketing her business with promotions via expat websites, shops, markets and English speaking groups and publications. Former teacher Gill Pound received good horticultural advice from the Chambre d’Agriculture in Carcassonne when she began her garden nursery in Caunes Minervois that specialises in plants most suited to the dry Languedoc climate. She has now been in business for 14 years and says they have remained a valuable source of support. To prospective business owners she says “do your research and then do it again! ” Mark Sayers has been a property agent in Perpignan since 2003 and says for him January and February are often busy months with potential purchasers making sure they still like the area at the coldest time of year. He also recommends FAB-networks and, with several different ways to structure your business (eg setting up an SARL or as an auto-entrepreneur), recommends taking advice on which is best. He admits he was not prepared for paying “cotisations” (social security payments) the minute he set up his company before earning a single centime! Mark says “A good accountant can be invaluable here. It’s often said accountants in France can be competent in keep-
This is an abbreviated version of the information provided by the business owners themselves. Please email solutions@ lafranglaise.com if you would to contact the people featured in this article. ing your books in order but reluctant to offer advice or to help your business to run efficiently. I have certainly found this to be the case”. Ruth Lawson finds herself busy all year round as she is an emigration coach, runs a gite and also a new online business selling fair-trade goods. Based in the Gard near Barjac in the Lozère, she finds coaching is in most demand in September and January as “people get back from their summer holidays and start thinking about making a change, or to get a boost when making a personal change in their lives and well-being”. She has found strong support online and found “a massive difference between pragmatic, information-based or financial/legal advice (specific to France) and the business of running a business which is all about creativity, entrepreneurial behaviour and staying power”. Formerly head of Modern Languages at a secondary school, Kylee Milner now lives in Luc-sur-Orbieu and had no difficulties with the paperwork for her jewellery business but found the renovation of the premises far more challenging. She says the Chambre des Métiers in the Aude (Narbonne) was an excellent source of help and advice, and benefits from marketing and promotion via Le Pays Cathare group.
These policies are called assurance de protection juridique, and the kind your bank is probably suggesting – a general legal protection policy – usually includes free legal advice from a helpline plus cover for legal fees if you have to defend yourself or take action against a third party (such as a company with which you have a dispute). Note that these policies relate to you and your expenses only, not any third parties who may have legal expenses incurred because of an action of yours. They do, however, usually cover the members of your immediate family as well as yourself. Unlike the general policies, partial legal cover may be provided in home or car insurance policies, but only related to disputes covered by the policy, like accidents or water damage. Other limited legal policies also exist, such as “consumer” ones covering you for disputes linked to a purchase or hire contract or performance of a service. Limited legal insurance is also included with certain bank cards for purchases made with them. A general policy might apply eg. to a dispute with a mail-order firm, your employers, your neighbour, your social security caisse... It will say in the small print what it covers, or what it excludes. Costs start at around e70 per year and there will usually be an excess level which will have to be reached before the insurance comes into play and there may be an initial period during which the policy cannot be used. Most disputes linked to daily life are sorted out amicably with the assistance of lawyers provided through the policies. Should that not suffice, costs of avocats, huissiers, court experts etc will be covered by the insurance, within certain ceilings which may be per dispute or per year. Specific limits on avocats’ fees may be set. There may also be national limits as to where the policy will be operative (France, EU etc). One insurer which offers such policies, MMA, specifies that where there is a judgment in your favour it follows it up to see it is enforced. However, if you lose a case, the insurance will not cover sums that you may be ordered to pay your opponent – damages and expenses etc. Where you need to be represented in court, you will have the right to choose your avocat or to be advised by the insurance firm, and their fees are negotiable by yourself. When considering such a policy, be sure to check what areas of dispute it covers (or rules out), if there are optional guarantees, and what the ceilings are for costs that are insured.
22 Property
Languedoc Pages
October 2012
Properties AROUND FRANCE
45,000
54,580
64,800
Montigny, Manche, Normandy One bedroom house to renovate consists of living room, kitchen, bathroom, shed, workshop, garage and garden.
Rostrenen, Côtes-d'Armor, Brittany Two bedroom house comprises lounge, kitchen, shower room, laundry room, conservatory and garden.
Pont d'Ouilly, Orne, Normandy One bedroom house consists of large kitchen/dining/sitting room, en suite shower room and separate garden.
Ref: 14025D
Energy rating = F & F
Ref: PLM01314
Energy rating = F
Ref: 13516PO
75,000
86,400
89,100
Douarnenez, Finistère, Brittany Two bedroom renovated flat consists of open plan kitchen/ living room, shower room and terrace.
Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouët, Manche, Normandy Three bedroom house consists of living room, furnished kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, garage and garden.
La Coquille, Dordogne Three bedroom house comprises lounge, dining room, kitchen, breakfast room, bathroom, workshop and attached garage.
Ref: IFPC22361
Energy rating = E & C
Ref: 14135D
Energy rating = e & f
Ref: 700720
117,700
126,000
149,800
Périers, Manche, Normandy Three bedroom house comprises living room, kitchen, bathroom, garden, paddock, garage and outbuildings.
Ségalas, Lot-et-Garonne Four bedroom farmhouse comprises large living room, kitchen, bathroom, garden and garage.
Ribérac, Dordogne Two bedroom stone house includes two stone barns and small fenced garden.
Ref: 13439sdd
Energy rating = f & b
Ref: 83003159960
Energy rating = G & B
REF: 700879
160,000
170,000
180,200
Moulins-la-Marche, Manche, Normandy Three bedroom house comprises open plan sitting room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, garage and garden.
Near Beaumont-du-Périgord, Dordogne One bedroom stone house set on five acres of land consists of living room, kitchen and bathroom.
Monségur, Gironde Four bedroom Landes-style villa consists of sitting/dining room, kitchen, bathroom, conservatory, garage and woodland.
Ref: IFPC22284
Energy rating = E & C
Ref: BVI0007407
Energy rating = A
Ref: B 1198
189,800
216,000
217,300
Saint-Aubin-de-Terregatte, Manche, Normandy Three bedroom house comprises living room, small sitting area, large south facing conservatory, garage, workshop and 4300m2 of wooded grounds.
Évriguet, Morbihan, Brittany Three bedroom stone house comprises three reception rooms, kitchen, bathroom and gardens.
Percy, Manche, Normandy Three bedroom detached house comprises sitting room, fully fitted kitchen, bathroom, shower room, small office and landscaped gardens.
Ref: 13809D
Energy rating = d & e
REF: 700570
Energy rating = D
REF: 700516
234,000
245,000
262,500
Saint-Martin-de-Landelles, Manche, Normandy Six bedrooms house consists of living room, dining room, fitted kitchen, bathroom, garden, workshop and double garage.
Near Villefranche-de-Lonchat, Dordogne Three bedroom bungalow comprises open plan living room/ kitchen, bathroom, utility room, garage, garden and swimming pool.
Lembeye, Pyrénées-Atlantiques Two bedroom house consists of large lounge, dining room, bespoke kitchen, two bathrooms, garden and two outbuildings.
REF: MNB01226
Energy rating = B & B
Ref: AQU-693
Energy rating = D & B
Ref: 1577
267,500
295,800
315,000
Mauron, Morbihan, Brittany Built in 1901 as a hotel this impressive eight bedroom detached property is ready to serve as either a bed and breakfast or a large private home.
Bellême, Orne, Normandy Five bedroom house consists of living/dining room, kitchen, bathroom, shower room, outbuilding with wine cellar and garage.
Pujols, Lot-et-Garonne Four bedroom house consists of two lounges, dining room, fitted kitchen, shower room, bathroom and swimming pool.
Ref: 700328
Energy rating = D
REF: XJN02333
Energy rating = D & D
Ref: TR100078
320,000
328,600
332,000
Near Bergerac, Dordogne Four bedroom detached house includes living room, dining room, kitchen, study, bathroom, shower room, integral garage, and swimming pool.
Roullours, Calvados, Normandy Two bedroom and one bedroom house with outbuildings set on 37 acres of land.
Fougères, Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany Five bedroom house comprises large lounge, fitted kitchen/dining area, two bathroom, workshop, outbuildings and swimming pool.
Ref: IFPC22356
Energy rating = E & F
REF: 700497
Energy rating = E
Ref: CRN00601
363,000
367,500
382,600
Limendous, Pyrénées-Atlantiques Three bedroom renovated Béarnaise farmhouse comprises dining room, living room, bathroom, barn and swimming pool.
La Baleine, Manche, Normandy Two semi-detached three bedroom Gîtes consists of large gardens and 18 hole mini-golf course. This property with its commercial activities has a great deal to offer.
Lacanau, Gironde Four bedroom house consists of living/dining room, kitchen, utility room, bathroom, en-suite bathroom, garden, pool house and swimming pool.
Ref: 1609
Energy rating = f & c
REF: 700844
Energy rating = F
Ref: FPBIM10150
384,950
396,000
415,000
Vimoutiers, Orne, Normandy Four bedroom house and two bedroom cottage currently run as a very successful B&B and Gîte business.
Fougères, Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany Five bedroom house entirely restored includes one bedroom guest house and numerous outbuildings.
Near Pau, Pyrénées-Atlantiques Five bedroom stone house full of character comprises living room, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, four shower rooms, gardens, covered swimming pool and large stone outbuilding.
REF: IFPC22612
Energy rating = e & f
Ref: CRN00586
Energy rating = E & E
Ref: 1542
Energy rating = G & D
Energy rating = F
Energy rating = e
Energy rating = D & B
Energy rating = F
Energy rating = D & A
Energy rating = e
Energy rating = D & E
Energy rating = c & b
Energy rating = c & c
Languedoc Pages
Property and Finance 23
October 2012
Properties AROUND FRANCE
424,000
Sponsored by Energy rating = f & c
Answered by
www.worldfirst.com +44 20 7801 1050 Buying can be made simpler by fixing your rate in advance
Photo: © angellodeco - Fotolia.com
Near Beynac, Dordogne Four bedroom house set on seven hectares of land consists of lounge/dining room, kitchen, shower room, separate WC, terrace, conservatory and outbuilding.
Photo: © Andy Dean - Fotolia.com
449,000
Ref: FPBC3260C
Finance
Jeremy Cook, chief economist at foreign exchange company, World First, talks about the Euro and other currencies.
Near Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, Orne, Normandy Stone house and two Gîtes set on 3 hectares of land comprises barn, stable, small fishing lake with carp and two swimming pools. REF: 13643POJD
Currency Notes
Energy rating = e & b
472,000 Gironde Five bedroom renovated Maison de Maitre and one bedroom gîte.
Ref: V5820
Energy rating = C & D
Wealth taxpayers will face an extra bill this year
473,000 Juilley, Manche, Normandy Four bedroom stone house and three bedroom stone cottage set on 9,443 m2 of land.
REF: 14075D
Energy rating = c & b
483,000 Dieppe, Seine-Maritime, Normandy Six bedroom house comprises three independent garages, large courtyard and small garden. Ideal as a B&B. Ref: IFPC22565
Energy rating = A & A
499,000 Near Lalinde, Dordogne A restored three bedroom stone Manoir and four bedroom guest house set on one hectare of land with barn, garage, swimming pool and pool house. Ref: FPBS2338M
Energy rating = E & C
535,600 Etrépagny, Eure, Normandy Four bedroom Old Mill house consists of living room, kitchen, two bathrooms, shower room, wine cellar, garden, small storage building and small house. REF: 83003151870
Energy rating = e & c
539,700 Duras, Lot-et-Garonne Four bedroom houses consists of two reception rooms, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, bathroom, two shower rooms and garage. Ref: 71471
Energy rating = C
560,000 Near Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives, Calvados, Normandy Six bedroom country house and self-contained apartment set on 3 and a half hectares of land. Ref: IFPC22632
Energy rating = d & e
728,000 Isigny-le-Buat, Manche, Normandy Five bedroom Château comprises entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, three bathrooms, shower room, and one bedroom gate house. REF: 13857D
Energy rating = f & e
Currency options can give protection THE continuing weakness of the euro against the pound has apparently not deterred people in the Eurozone from buying British property. Our latest data survey found that despite the decline of the euro in 2010 nearly half of all our transactions involving clients moving euros into GBP were property related. On the other hand, a fragile euro has created some fantastic opportunities for Britons looking to invest in an overseas property in Europe. Our figures also suggest that the euro’s decline toward the end of last year contributed to a significant increase in property-related transfers from sterling to euro, despite the ongoing climate of austerity in the UK and beyond. The unpredictability of the currency markets has seen an increasing number of people turning to foreign exchange specialists for advice on how they can protect any potential investments from currency fluctuations exposure. However, anyone looking to move large amounts of money overseas needs to make sure that they have the right kind of advice in place to avoid any potential disappointment when it comes to moving day. By using a foreign exchange broker you can set a rate for a transaction happening up to three years ahead – so there are no nasty surprises on the day that you buy your home abroad. A select few companies are also now in a position to be able to offer “currency options” (formerly the preserve of big businesses) to the general market. This means you can set an exchange rate in advance of your property purchase date, but you also guarantee that you will also see any financial benefit if the market subsequently moves in your favour. Whether you are a UK resident looking to buy a property abroad, or if you are a non-UK resident looking to buy a property in Britain, a currency company will ensure the currency exchange happens in the most efficient way possible. They can transfer your money from your domestic bank account into your overseas account, and can convert from and to virtually any currency. If you are selling, they can bring your money home quickly and safely – using their own overseas accounts if appropriate. By using an FSA regulated broker you will have complete peace of mind that your money is safe. With all the other complications associated with buying property overseas, the currency transfer is one thing you need to keep as simple and secure as possible.
For more information about making international money transfers with World First visit the website www.worldfirst.com or call +44 20 7801 1050
I am thinking about making a permanent move to France but I am worried about Wealth Tax. I understand the previous government changed the tax threshold to e1.3million but I have since heard that M. Hollande has overturned this. Is this the case? F.T. Not quite but the new government has decided to raise more money this year by changing the Wealth Tax (Impot de Solidarité sur la Fortune, or ISF) rates introduced under the Sarkozy tax overhaul. The e1.3m threshold remains in place. We are effectively left with an ISF supplementary charge, and this is how it will work: Under the Sarkozy system, no Wealth Tax was payable unless your net wealth exceeded e1.3m. If it did, you would pay tax on all of your wealth at 0.25%. If your wealth exceeded e3m then you would pay tax on all of your wealth at 0.5%. The Hollande supplement will retain the e1.3m threshold, but reinstate the old tax rates of 0.55% to 1.8%, depending on the amount of wealth declared. Instead of paying tax on all of your wealth, you will start to pay the tax after an allowance of e800,000 is used up. Not related specifically to this question, but of importance to the general topic, is the fact that these tax changes are designed to produce more money for the government this year, despite the fact that Wealth Tax declarations have already been made and charges levied for this year. The government has introduced emergency measures for a “contribution exceptionelle” – basically a surcharge on Wealth Tax already charged. As the new rates mean an increase in tax on all levels, everyone who has paid Wealth Tax this year will get an additional bill bringing the charge up to the new rates. This surcharge will be advised by mail and must be paid by November 15. For next year, the new ISF bands will not be announced until December but there is a fair chance that the government coffers will still be bare, and the additional Wealth Tax could be with us for a while longer. This is entirely guesswork but here is a guide as to what an amalgamation of the Sarkozy and Hollande systems might look like going forward. In this scenario these charges will not kick in until your net wealth exceeds e1.3m: n Up to e800,000 0.25% n e800,000 to e1,400,000 0.55 % n e1,400,000 to e2,700,000 0.75 % n e2,700,000 to e4,200,000 1.00 % n e4,200,000 to e7,800,000 1.30 % n e7,800,000 to e16,700,000 1.65 % n above e16,700,000 1.80 % It is also worth remembering that under the terms of the Double Taxation treaty between France and the UK, new residents in France pay ISF only on their France-based assets for the first five years of residence. After that, their worldwide assets are taken into account.
FREE EVEN T The No.1 Event on the South Coast of France Tue 9 October Wed 10 October Thur 11 October Fri 12 October
Opio 06650 La Motte 83920 Nîmes 30000 Brugairolles 11300
• How can we save on exchange rates for international transfers? • What about taxes in France (Inheritance, Wealth, Income)? • Can we move our UK pensions? Le Tour de Finance are bringing experts to expats. A number of speakers will be available to answer your questions after the event.
Le Tour Circuit 2012 Tue 9 Oct
Château de la Bégude Route de Roquefort-les-Pins, 06650 Opio
Wed 10 Oct
Les Domaines de St Endréol Golf & Spa Resort 1 Route de Bagnols en Forêt, 83920, La Motte
Thur 11 Oct
L’Orangerie, Château de Lacoste, 23 chemin de l’Hippodrome, 30000, Nîmes
Fri 12 Oct
Domaine Gayda Route de Malviès, 11300 Brugairolles
1 Opio 06650 9 October 2 La Motte 83920 10 October 3 Nimes 3000 11 October 4 Brugairolles 11300 12 October 3
• Free entry • Free seminars • Free buffet lunch and refreshments
HOW TO BOOK Places are limited, to book your place or to receive additional information about the speakers or locations, please email info@letourdefinance.com or contact Pippa Maile on +33 (0) 489 829 206 or mobile: +33 (0) 672 096 495 www.letourdefinance.com In association with:
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