The Local Buzz May - June 2022 by Buzzing

For those living, working or visiting Dordogne, Lot et•Garonne, Gironde, Haut Garonne, Tarn et Garonne & Gers A Lifestyle Magazine & Website for • Gironde • Dordogne Lot et Garonne • LotLot, • Gers • Tarn et Garonne • N.Haute Garonne

MAY & JUNE 2022

FREE

I’m priceless

REGIONAL WHAT’S ON GUIDE

GARDENING WITH HERBS

Outdoor Entertaining

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Mental Health Insurance Know-how

Weddings Special Finance • Food & Drink • Property

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

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

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

www.brightavocats.com

Welcome

The Local Buzz is the only A4, glossy magazine and comprehensive website for English speakers living or working in, or visiting these regions.

Magazine

Lifestyle focused, the free, bi-monthly magazine is informative and fun with regional what’s on highlights, timeless editorial and vibrant imagery. If you are unable to pick up a copy, every issue can be read on our website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online or can be sent by post.

DORDOGNE H PERIGUEUX H BORDEAUX

GIRONDE

Website

Looking for a an English-speaking local business, more listings of what’s on, articles, blogs and area information? Then visit our website which works hand in hand with the magazine, giving you easy search facilities for all kinds of businesses, organisations and events. You can find all the details at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com.

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LOT et GARONNE AGEN H

H CAHORS

TARN et GARONNE H MONTAUBAN

By Post

GERS

You can also choose to have your copy delivered direct to your door with a postal subscription. Please complete the form at www.thelocalbuzzmagcom/subscriptions/

H AUCH

TOULOUSE H

N.HAUTE GARONNE

Hello from our Queen Bee What worrying times we are living in. As if

As always, we have some fabulous food recipes and wine

Covid isn’t still concern enough, now we

ideas, and even cut through the myths that surround

have the terrible war with its disastrous

the origins of the baguette in our history pages.

effects on the people and country of

Sports dives in with water-based suggestions, and three

Ukraine, as well as the disturbing ripple

experts give us their thoughts on their own areas of

effects across Europe and the rest of the world. Our hearts

expertise in the never-ending, wide-ranging subject of

go out to all those affected by these horrendous events,

home improvements.

let’s pray that it ends soon.

The benefits of Premium Bonds are discussed in our advice

We apologise for our absence recently but, having had

pages, together with an explanation on French insurance,

Covid personally, I can now fully appreciate how hard it

alongside emotional and legal questions answered by

is to recover and how the effects can linger on for days if

experts. Well-being concentrates on mental issues,

not weeks. Thankfully we are back, stronger than ever and

shedding a light on brain fog, and helping to bring some

ready for the rest of the year.

reassurance about phobias.

This issue heralds the arrival of sunnier days with a special

Thank you for your ongoing support. We hope you enjoy

feature on weddings here in SW France, and an outdoor

the issue and have a wonderful May and June.

entertaining feature with ideas for exterior lighting and accessories. We also take a look at gardening with herbs with a selection of favourites that is sure to come in handy!

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The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

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

CONTENTS May & June Issue

Editorial & Managing Director: Lesley Ashburner

REGULARS

Layout: The Magazine Production Company

Advertising: buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

Photography: Shutterstock or Jeff Ross unless otherwise stated

regional guide to what’s on

Our thanks go to our regular contributors as well as Andrea Glover, Christine Haworth-Staines, Vincent Bonnin, Fabien Pelissier, Sarah Bright, Irena-Marie Makowska, Joanna Leggett, Beth Stretton, Roseanne Greenhalgh, Rev’d Tony Lomas, Graham Havas, Beverley Hindle and Andy Wigley. Cover: Shutterstock

All trademarks are trademarks of the companies concerned. No material may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The general editorial and articles in this issue do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor or publishers. Please ensure that the company you are dealing with is registered in France. To become a distribution point, to advertise, to send us information, or for any other enquiry contact buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com Emergency Numbers: 15 - SAMU Service on a nationwide basis – call for medical assistance 17 -

What’s the Buzz

8 The start of our

Regular contributors: Katie Gardner, Emma & John Gilchrist (Les Caulins), Sue Adams, Puzzles-to-Print.

The Local Buzz is free and is published by SAS The Local Buzz, 102 Chemin de la Plaine, 47120 Saint Pierre Sur Dropt ISSN 2516-8134. RCS AGEN Siren 842 643 173. Printed by Rotimpres SA on paper from a renewable source.

Hello

28 Gardening with Herbs 30 Jobs in the Garden 31 Buzz Bits

38 Food & Drink 60 Puzzle Page

66 Just Droning FEATURES

32 Weddings Special

40 Guest Chef 42 O utdoor

Entertaining

44 The Great Baguette 46 Home

Improvements 50 Property

53 French Insurance

Police (gendarmerie)

18 - General emergency you will need to ask for ambulance, gendarmes or service d’incendie (feu) or sapeur pompiers 112 - European standard emergency number for anywhere in EEC 114 - Text messaging service for the deaf or hard of hearing 119 - National helpline for children in danger

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

54 Sport in Water

58 Legal Query 59 Finance

WELL BEING 56 Brain Fog

57 Sorting Phobias 58 Ask Katie PLUS…

61 Business Directory 5

WE NOW HAVE FREE COLLECTION POINTS IN: DORDOGNE – BERGERAC, EYMET, EXCIDEUIL, NONTRON, PERIGUEUX, SARLAT-LA-CANEDA, RIBERAC HAUTE GARONNE – TOULOUSE, SAINT MARTORY GERS – AUCH, CONDOM, L’ISLE JORDAIN, MIELAN LOT – CAHORS, FIGEAC LOT ET GARONNE – DURAS, AGEN, FUMEL TARN – ALBI, CASTRES, MAZAMET TARN ET GARONNE – CAUSSADE, LAUZERTE +MORE IN SURROUNDING AREAS, SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR UP-TO-DATE SCHEDULES & LOCATIONS FREE DELIVERY* - NO MINIMUM ORDER

English/French speaking estate agents Tel: + 33 (0)5 53 09 33 45 Fax: + 33 (0)5 53 09 36 12 Quality properties for sale urgently required. We are an efficient and friendly team of bilingual professionals with excellent local knowledge and a portfolio of properties in the Dordogne, Gironde and Lot et Garonne.

T: +33 (0)5 53 83 30 46 info@richardimmo.com

www.richardimmo.com P a p i l l o n

7 rue du Château 47410 Lauzun

A r c h i t e c t u r e Le Bourg, 24310, bourdeilles

Tél 05 53 09 33 45 - Mobile 06 87 45 15 79

e-mail: contact@papillonarchitecture.com

Siret: 488 165 564 00011

website: www.papillonarchitecture.com

what’s the BUZZ Are you buzzing?

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

OUR PICK OF WHAT’S ON IN YOUR REGION DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: Vide Greniers • Cestas, 4 June (33) • Biras, 15 May (24) • Thézsac, 29 May (47) • Gréalou, 5 June (46) • Caussens, 22 May (32) • Moissac, 12 June (82) • Pibrac, 6 June (31)

Bourses d’Objets • Mérignac, 4 June (33) • Monpazier, 26 June (24) • Saint-Robert, 12 June (47) • Fontanes, 29 May (46) • Lectoure, 8 May (32) • Valence, 17-19 May (82) • Toulouse, 18 June (31)

Marchés Traditionnels • Floirac, Tuesday (33) • Hautefort, Wednesday (24) • Duras, Monday (47) • Salviac, Friday (46) • Condom, Sunday (32) • Lauzerte, Saturday (82) • Colomiers, Thursday (31)

The What’s On pages are colour coded for quick, easy department identification. Don’t forget, for lots more What’s On listings visit our website at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

GARDENS GALORE Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Communication, the annual Rendezvous Aux Jardins highlights how important it is to protect green space in France. From 3 to 5 June conferences, presentations, workshops and gardening demonstrations combine with 2,000+ public and private gardens opening to the public. www.rendezvousauzjardins. culturecommunication.gouv.fr There are more super gardens

to see throughout the region, this time from the members of Open Gardens. Monies raised support children and young people with disabilities and life-changing illnesses across France. A great way to seek inspiration, enjoy! www.opengardens.eu

ROCK ON!

Ready to rock from 30 June until 3 July, the 25th GaroRock Festival is promising to be the biggest and best ever. Some great bands and artists, including Green Day, DJ Snake, Ninho, Martin Garrix, Orelsan and Stromae, will be playing

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

to a massive crowd that has travelled from far and wide to Marmande for an unforgettable GaroRock Experience. Camping is available. For tickets and more information visit www.garorock.com.

Make a Note

June 21 is not only the longest day of the year but it’s probably one of the most musically blessed here in France, as the Fête de la Musique comes to a street, village and town near you. Musicians of all kinds will be displaying their talents throughout the region during this traditional event which, this year it is hoped, will be more festive than ever before. Watch out for events locally.

GIRONDE

what’s the

BUZZ GIRONDE

Vélos Galore!

Whilst correct at time of writing, these events may be subject to change. More events, including virtual versions, can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag. com/what’s-on. Please be sure to check the event status before attending.

A Breath of Africa

Léz Arts Eclectiques comes to LE BARP from 20 to 22 May as the Souffle de Baobab, Les Migrations African Festival, breezes into town. Pulsating music, spectacular dance from Kaddu, and a rhythmic performance by Nô Mëti Sîfâdhe accompany a series of dance and percussion workshops, a market filled with African treasures, and a typical African meal. www.lezartseclectiques.e-monsite.com

DORDOGNE

GO FRENCHMAN Dedicated to the joy of cycling, the Fête du Vélo at LANGON on 15 May should make you want to grab your handlebars! Cycle the delightful Brevet for 50 or 100km, tackle a challenging 18 or 36km VTT circuit on the banks of the Garonne, take a scenic 8km hike with a guide, or stroll the beautiful châteaux of Sauternes with a guided tour complete with wine tasting. For children there is also an educational road safety circuit in the Parc des Vergers. Aperitifs and catering will be accompanied by a fanfare from Y’a pas l’feu. www.cycloclublangonnais33. clubeo.com

Ready, steady, go! The ever-popular Frenchman Triathlon Festival goes under starters orders in CARCANS with the M Triathlon and FrenchKid Duathlon on 26 May. As well as the L Triathlon on the 27th there will also be a special homage to Frenchman legends with a line-up of superstars. The event culminates on the 29th with the exhilarating Frenchman XXL Triathlon. www.frenchmantriathlon.com/inscription/

BACK TO THE RAVE Dub, techno, bass music, hardcore and trance are just some of the electronic music styles lined up at this year’s Millesime Festival in LA REOLE on 3 and 4 June. DJ Lucky Boy, Krissy Wyatt, Disco Fighter, The Jeweler, and La Kajofol are among the

50 international artists taking to three open air stages. Camping, food and refreshments are all on hand too so you won’t miss a thing! www.facebook.com/millesimefestival/

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

This extraordinary exhibition of unique Tondos (barrel bottoms) in FOURS from 25 June features works by 20 well-known contemporary artists. With a range of expressionist art, paintings, computer graphics and other illustrative styles, the artists are as varied as the display with ages from 15 to 70. Each quality piece will be auctioned on the closing day of 28 August. www.chateauleschaumes.com/

The Fête le Vin in BORDEAUX has been much missed over the past four years and returns to its iconic route along the Quai Louis XVIII on 23 to 26 June with a corker of an event! “Pairing” wine tastings with exhibitions, concerts and fireworks, this year’s event promises to be better than ever. Celebrating not only the region’s wines, it also highlights gastronomy, the architectural splendour of the city, and the richness of its culture, as well as the many assets of the regional terroir. Not forgetting the river and its historical links to viticulture, the festivities are watched over by three beautiful Tall Ships.

GIRONDE

BETTER THAN EVER Tondos Up!

Fair Time

Billed as a special edition, La Foire de Bordeaux is your one-stop shop for the latest ideas for home furnishings and decoration, artisanal gifts, arts and crafts, gourmet food, and cookery demonstrations. International by design and held in BORDEAUX from 21 to 29 May, it will even take you on a journey to Egypt with the story of Tutankhamun. Introducing the Trophée Gustave des Foires de France for innovative products and services, it also features different prizes to be won at the Fair and via social media. Don’t miss the sports village and electric-road show either! www.foiredebordeaux.com/la-foire/une-edition-speciale

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • 17th Marathon des Vins, Blaye, 14 May • 13th Salon BD, La Reste de Buch, 28 & 29 May • La Fête de la Nature, Braud-et-Saint-Louis,

21 & 22 May • Fête de l’abaille, SaintAndré-de-Cubzac, 22 May • Concert MACM, MargauxCantenac,16 Jun • Famous Rogues Concert,

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

Lesparre-Medoc, 10 Jun • Randonnée Aquatique, Andernos-les-Bains, 20 Jun • Festival Médiéval, Landiras, 11 & 12 Jun

• 2nd Classic Car Festival, La Reole, 26 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

PICTURES FRAMES ARTWORKS

gallery.justinejoseph.com M. +33 (0)6 79 92 95 88

SIRET 48003796900015

A place to purchase photos, paintings, signs & miscellaneous decorative things, with delivery possible in a 60km radius of both Salignac-Eyvigues 24590 & Duras 47120.

www.skyinfrance.co.uk

TIME TRAVEL

Vincent Grass opens the Tradescantia concert, taking us on a journey “through time” as part of the Jazz Pourpre season. First stop is Leipzig’s Zimmerman café in 1727 with the melodious notes of cellist Bernadette Dobos and Bach’s Suites. Then whoosh, we are in Paris with the Jazz notes of Miles Davis, before popping off to Chicago to find Ahmad Jamal and his trio featuring the cult Poinciana. Back to the present and you can catch the show in BERGERAC on 13 May. www.cbputsch.wixsite.com

Centenary Pushing the boundaries on this, its 100th anniversary, the Trèfle Gardonnais is bringing a unique concert to EYMET on 21 May. For the first time Banda, the festive street orchestra, will be joined by Les Grands Archets violins and cellos, as well as harp, electric guitar, piano and DJ decks. The result is the birth of a Symphonic Pop Orchestra with a repertoire spanning Queen, Supertramp, Carl Orff, Lady Gaga and, amongst others, Ibrahim Maalouf. Festi Trefle continues next day. www.les 100ansdutrefle.fr

DORDOGNE

what’s the

BUZZ DORDOGNE

TROTTING ON Hippodrome Lucien Pradié Marsalès opens at 11:30 in MONPAZIER on 29 May and, throughout the day, will feature seven harnessed trot races from 14:30, as well as children’s entertainment including ponies and inflatable structures. A day out for all the family perhaps? Entrance is €5 for adults and free for children. www.letrot.com

Classics

June 5th is the day for classic vehicles with the Rallye de Vieilles Motos in SAINT-CYR-LES-CHAMPAGNES (06 07 06 47 16) and, over in SAINT-CYPRIEN, the Rallye Auto Cobra (05 53 29 28 22). As well as the purring and, dare we say it, roar of much loved engines, both events will include entertainment and refreshments. Not to be forgotten, a Rallye Touristique is also out on the road on 4 and 5 June at SAINT-CERE (06 45 36 72 69.

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

DORDOGNE

Swingin’ Mama Mama Shakers takes to the stage in POMPORT on 17 June to explore the crazy swing of New Orleans, the deep country of Tennessee, and the old blues of Memphis. Headed up by Angela Strandberg (vocals and trumpet), Hugo Proy (clarinet), William Ohlund (banjo), Baptiste Hec (guitar) and Tristan Loriaut (double bass) will be presenting a fiery show, charging their audience with some great positive energy. 06 02 64 79 27.

MAD JACK A village festival and canoeing come together at the Mad Jacques Canoë in BEAULIEU-SUR-DORDOGNE on 17 to 19 June. Both days include a 20km paddle along the river with various stops for sunbathing and lunch. In the evenings it’s time to relax with,

on Friday, campfires, meetings and foodtrucks and, on Saturday, a Fiesta de l’Espace in the village with live music and entertainment. Local beer, traditional games and a large farmers’ market conclude the event on Sunday morning. www.madjacques.fr

DORDOGNE

A FUN TRAIL

The Angelus Trail on 28 May is a friendly, sporting event with only one aim: to reach the finish line at Saint-Etienne Cathedral in CAHORS to the sound of the Angelus at 19:00. Three scenic routes include an 80km trek leaving ROCAMADOUR at 07:00, a 48km route from LABASTIDE-MURAT at 11:00, and a 19km trail from VERS at 15:00. A great gourmet banquet awaits for the participants and their supporters once the trail is over. www.anglustrail.wixsite.com

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Art Expo Yves Martinet, Brantôme, 14 to 20 May • 18th Jazz Pourpre en Périgord, Bergerac to 22 May • Concert de Chorales,

Jumilhac-le-Grand, 21 May • Chic Planète en Concert, Thiviers, 27 May • 19th Fest’l BrikaBrak, Le Bugue, 2 to 5 Jun

• Carnival Time, Ribérac, 11 Jun • Rando de l’Eté, La Chapelle-Faucher, 18 Jun • Expo Joséphine Baker, Souillac, from 3 Jun

• Traditional Dance Workshop, Autoire, 24 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

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

Other offices at Villeréal, Bergerac, St. Cyprien, Monpazier, Lalinde, Issigeac

Ref:9860-VI 267,500 € HAI. DPE: E In a quiet setting, this 1920 stone house offers 4 bedrooms, spacious kitchen & separate livingroom. There is also a large basement of 130m². The property sits on nearly ½ acre of garden with a well, a heated above ground pool and covered terrace. Stunning views on surrounding countryside. (7% fees inc)

Ref: 9826-MO 525,000 € HAI DPE: Vierge Wonderful stone hilltop farm with fantastic views, offering 2-bed main house, 2-bed gite, and separate studio. A 180m² stone barn is attached to the main house; a 90m² stone barn is attached to the studio and 600m² stable block, plus 3 x 100m² tobacco barns offering further scope for development. Set on 26 hectares. (5% fees inc)

Ref: 9961-EY 159,000€ HAI. DPE: Vierge Lovely village house with 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms, set over 2 floors, with a mature, enclosed garden of around quarter of an acre, with large terrace to enjoy beautiful countryside views. Could easily be expanded on the ground floor to create a separate self-contained annex. Exclusive to Agence Eleonor! (6% fees inc)

Ref:9850-VI 462,000 € HAI. DPE: D This beautiful 5-bedroom stone property benefits from high ceilings, period windows, stone fireplaces and wide corridors giving an airy atmosphere throughout. Includes an independent apartment, charming walled garden and large 4-car garage. (5% fees inc)

Ref: 10047-EY 124,200 € HAI. DPE: Vierge This beautiful 3-bedroom property, located 2km from a village with all amenities, is full of character and fully renovated. The rooms are light and airy and comprise a living room, kitchen, laundry room, 3 bedrooms and a bathroom. There is a small outdoor space used for eating. (8% fees inc)

Ref: 9972-STC 318,000€ HAI DPE:E Located just outside Sarlat, this property includes a living room, separate kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom on the ground floor and 3 ensuite bedrooms on the first floor. Outside there is a pool and integral garage/ cellar. (6% fees inc)

Ref:9963-MO 398,000 € HAI. DPE: D At the foot of one of the most famous chateaux in the Dordogne, a unique stone estate composed of a 3-bedroom main house with terrace and courtyard; a second 3-bed house with high ceilings & large dining room, plus a small studio. (5% fees inc)

Ref: 9804-EY 585,200 € HAI. DPE: C Beautifully renovated property, with lots of charm and original features, comprising a 3/4-bedroom main house and separate 3-bedroom gite with large sitting/dining room and fitted kitchen. Gym room with sauna plus large, attached barn Heated pool, terrace with hot tub and over 2.5 acres of land. (4.5% fees inc)

NEW ROUTE

Fly to London-Gatwick from Limoges, starting May 1st, 2022.

166184_eJ_FR_Limoges-Gatwick_MagazineAdd_EN.indd 1

14/04/2022 14:52

LOT ETDORDOGNE GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

Nice day for a walk

LOT ET GARONNE

Nomadic?

The 23rd Foulées and Randos des Matins Verts steps out from TONNEINS on 22 May. Take your pick from two running courses of 10 and 15km, or three randonnées (hikes) of 7.6, 11.5 or 15km along the banks of the canal and the Garonne River. Organised by Tonneins Animations, there are three departure points at Mas d’Agenais, Lagruère and Villeton. Registrations at www.tonneins.fr

DORDOGNE

Adeo (going towards) is the latest project from Eric Sèva and takes its inspiration from traditional Romanian dance as well as jazz and classical musicians. With six albums to his credit, he brings his Triple Roots Trio and four exceptional classical soloists to MARMANDE on 20 May for an evening of “artistic nomadism”. www.billetterie-marmande.fr

All the way from Brooklyn, Antibalas dazzles with the afrobeat tradition of Fela Kuti, bringing funky rhythm, a hypnotic groove and pulsating energy to the stage in AGEN on 3 June. With a solid horn section, some banging expert percussionists, and lyrics sung in English, Spanish and Yoruba, this big band has the firepower to breathe scorching new life into these electric and traditional sounds. Don’t miss a beat! www.le-florida.org

Tatts

Tattoo and piercing fans won’t want to miss the first Piercing et Tatouage convention in SAINT SAUVEUR DE MEILHAN on 21 and 22 May. Inking skills and different design styles will be on show from ambigram and 3D through to Celtic, geometrics and paint brush stroke. In addition, there will be jewellery and decorative items on sale, food trucks and, from 14:00 to 22:00 on Saturday, you can also enjoy a concert. 06 87 78 94 10.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

LOT ET GARONNE

STRAWBERRY HEAVEN

ROCKIN’

Despite its name, the Fête de la Fraise at CLAIRAC on 4 to 6 June is much more than a strawberry festival. DJ One Fun hosts a Basque chicken evening with dancing on the Saturday and, on Sunday, there’s a fishing competition, an exhibition of old cars, a strawberry and local produce market, musical entertainment all day, children’s face painting and games, parades of flowered floats, and a concert by Stellia Koumba and Gloryspel at the church. What, no fireworks? If the weather permits, they will be lighting up the night sky too! 05 53 84 22 21.

In case you missed it on our What’s The Buzz page, the GaroRock Experience is back in MARMANDE for four days from 30 June, and it’s the 25th anniversary! Six stages, a Fête Foraine, various food stops and 45 new artists are lined up. If we said Jamie XX, Green Day, Dropkick Murphys, DJ Snake, Parcels, Martin Garrix, and The Hives you may have an idea of just how big this event is going to be! 05 53 64 44 44 for passes but be quick – thousands are expected to turn up and they are selling fast!

To die, to sleep… Broadcast on a giant screen live from the New York Met Opera in VILLEREAL on 4 June, Shakespeare’s Hamlet is presented in two acts, in English with French subtitles. When King Hamlet dies, his brother, Claudius, takes over the reins (and reign) and soon marries Gertrude, the widowed queen. Hamlet appears at the wedding as a ghost and reveals the circumstances of his death to his son, Prince Hamlet. Shock horror, he was murdered and demands revenge – but have a guess who murdered him! 05 53 36 00 37.

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Je Suis Carmen, Opera, Nérac, 12 & 13 May • Ateliers de décoration, Esclottes, to 1 Jun • 1st Festival La Colombe, Sainte-Colombe-de-

Duras, 11 Jun • Tuesday Marche Sportive, Duras, to 28 Jun • Chœur du Pays d’Albret, Espiens, 4 Jun • Fête des Fleurs et des

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

Saveurs, Marmande, 21 & 22 May • Summer Day, Urban Art, Tonneins, 25 & 26 Jun • Classical Music Concert, Castillonnés, 22 May

• Sýndesi Design and Paint Expo, Agen, to 30 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

Ref 73490

Ref. 73544 Beautiful and spacious stone house with covered terraces, swimming pool, outbuildings, shed and garden of approx. 7000 m².

Beautiful fully renovated farmhouse with swimming pool, outbuilding, second house and 2.7 hectares of land.

Countryside, on the outskirts of the village, 7/8 min from Eymet.

Only 10 min. Duras, 15 min to Eymet, 3 min to Golf Vigiers and 10 min to Sainte Foy la Grande.

Price : 549 900 € FAI DPE : C 148

Price : 424 000 € FAI DPE : E 296

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Chamber GOING UNDERGROUND Quartet Journey from the classical repertoire of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven through to modern musical comedy and jazz with Quatuor Vermeeren in AUJOLS on 20 May. Véronique, Olga, Yseult and Alexandre make up this enthralling string quartet, demonstrating the versatility of both their talent and their instruments. 05 65 31 50 08.

It may not be to the centre of the earth but this is definitely going to be exciting! Starting from SAINT-JEAN-DE-LAUR on 29 May, here’s your chance to discover the underground world of the Causses du Quercy, learning about the Karst formation and the science of caves (speleology). Following a 6m abseil, you’ll make your way down slopes and crawl through displacements in search of hidden wonders. 05 65 24 20 50.

THE DOCKS ROCK The Festival Let’s Dock on 10 and 11 June in CAHORS is known for its headline acts and this year is no exception. Orange Blossom, Danakil, Balaphonik Sound System, Lombre and Jungle Box are just a few of the star attractions at this combination of electro, trance, afro-rock and, amongst others, nu-soul, rap and reggae. For passes and timings go to www.lesdocks-cahors.fr/evenement/festival-lets-docks-2022/

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

LOT

what’s the

BUZZ LOT

ALL THAT JAZZ

It will be jazz hands at the ready from 27 to 29 May as the first ever Festival Fi’Jazz hits the high notes in FIGEAC. Organised by the new Envie de Jazz Association, the event spans jazz from the traditional New Orleans era through to contemporary Be Bop, rock and gypsy jazz. Cafè Crème opens with a lively gypsy performance and, across various venues over the three days, is followed by the Amaury Faye Trio, the AMJ Trio, Les Mystère des Eléphants, and the BBS Big Band with Lionel and Stéphane Belmondo. A Musical Brunch draws the festival to a close with a free concert by the Original Jazzpirinne Quartet. www.festival-de-jazz-figeac.fr

LOT

Vive Le Vin

FANCY A PICNIC?

Celebrating (hopefully) the arrival of fine weather, the Magnific Picnic at FIGEAC on 25 May is no ordinary affair. This year it brings a spicy Italian feel with Radio Tutti and the Barilla Sisters in a free “baleti” concert. Allowing musical diversity from tarantella, cumbia and hip hop, the orchestra combines with voice, accordion, tambourine, synthesizers and brass for a night to remember! www.astrolabe-grand-figeac.fr

Dreamy Wine, food and music, what else could one ask for? Perhaps a game of pétanque? You’ll find it all at Salon de Vins Vivants in TRESPOUXRASSIELS on 11 and 12 June. This “living wines” fair brings together Clos Trotteligotte, Domaine Mas Del Périé and Domaine Vent des Jours wine estates, complete with the traditional game, gastronomic delights and concerts from Batufraka, The Singer and the Clown, Un P’tit Gars du Coin, as well as a DJ set. www.helloasso.com

An electronic music festival set in a medieval fortress sums up the Rêve Festival in CAHORS on 25 June. An exceptional location warrants exceptional talent which is why international musicians such as Nakadia, Fred Baena, Allon, Blackbass and Morgancito, to name but a few, are set to take you on a journey into their respective musical universes. www.undergrange.com

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Concert Rap Cosmique, Soulomès, 14 May • Aquathlon du Lac Vert, Catus, 15 May • Derby Equestre, Gourdon, 22 May

• Mountain Biking (VTT), Roc Quercynois, Brengues, 22 May • 9th Salon Vins et Terroirs, Gourdon, 26 & 27 May

• Festival Juin Jardins, Cahors, 3 to 5 Jun • Choir Concert, Faycelles, 18 Jun • Jean-Pierre Faurie art expo, Mercuès,

to 27 Nov • Vidala in concert, Gourdon, 10 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

With over 25 years’ international experience, Evy Jester specialises in an applied combination of • Swedish massage • Deep-tissue massage • Sports massage • Aromatherapy massage

A professional massage therapy session can release chronic tension, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, and reduce mental and physical fatigue. Based in Prayssac (Lot), Evy also provides in-home sessions locally and can travel further afield for multi-massage sessions.

06 60 81 53 26 evy@evymassage.com www.evymassage.fr

GERS

what’s the

BUZZ

Top Brass!

For Music Lovers GERS

ANCIENT CRAFTS

With around 30 craftsmen displaying their techniques and wares, the 28th Salon des Métiers d’Arts in PLAISANCE is all about ancient crafts. Animations and workshops will be taking place alongside stands packed with interesting crafts from 19 to 21 May. Reflecting the trades that could be found in the bastide 700 years ago, it features tanners, basket makers, potters, stonemasons, wood turners, engravers and even blacksmiths. www.aapplaisance.jimdo.com

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Eclats de Voix in AUCH is staying faithful to its original motto: originality, excellence and eclecticism. Held across various venues from 13 to 19 June, Cats on Trees performs first, followed by a dinner spectacle, then a cinematic projection of No Land’s Song, Les Catas Divas, then The King’s Sisters on 18th. Closing the event on the Sunday will be a selection of amateur choirs in the afternoon and Le Chœur de l’Armée Français at 18:00. www.eclatsdevoix.com

If you love brass, then CONDOM is the place to be from 12 to 15 May for the Festival Européen de Bandas y Peñas. As the largest gathering of brass and percussion in the south west of France, this music extravaganza features artists, live street performances and contemporary music concerts. Combining traditional and modern elements, and symbolising a living Gascon culture, it also includes a Landes race, the Grand Paquito, brass band competitions and amongst others, clowns, minute make-up and a fun photobooth. A fun day out for all! www.festivaldebandas.fr

DORDOGNE

I SAY!

Designed to forge more links between the English and French communities, SAINT-PUY is celebrating its 10th May Day, le Printemps Anglais, with what is promised to be “a moment of conviviality, complete with British accents” on 22 and 23 May. A street market and arts and craft fair, join forces with a gourmet village, a May Queen parade, afternoon tea, games and musical entertainment from the Piperade Pipers and Banjo Barjo. As well as food stalls there will even be Fish and Chips! 05 62 28 56 00.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

BONJOUR!

Techno Brass, Joao Selva, Furie and DJ DIA Radio are taking centre stage at Bonjour Gimone in SAINT-BLANCARD on 17 and 18 June. Free water activities such as Dragon boats, paddle boards, canoes and inflatables are offered from noon to 20:00 on the Saturday, along with food and cocktails on the beach. Don’t expect an early night though as the music doesn’t stop until 04:00 but you’ll have some time to recover until the Gimone aux Fourneaux banquet and music event kicks off at noon on the Sunday. www.facebook.com/bonjourgimone

TRUCK DERBY

GERS DORDOGNE

Latino Organised by L’Association Dilequeno, this exciting Soirée Latino in FLEURANCE on 27 May will have you showing off all your favourite latino dance moves, not to mention your best dancing outfits and heels. DJ Tito and Yacine will be there to keep the evening lively and, if you can tear yourself away from the dance floor, refreshments and nibbles can be found at the bar. 06 33 95 03 15.

Now in its 28th year, the Grand Prix Camion at NOGARO on 18 and 19 June is not to be missed. Around 35,000 spectators will be enjoying the exhilaration of trucks competing at up to 160km/h on the track with no fear of hitting each other – which they will! As well as an exhibition, 200 decorated trucks parade through the streets of Nogaro on Saturday evening and then take to the track with a concert of horns on Sunday afternoon. www.circuit-nogaro.com

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Silke Art Expo, Fleurance, until 19 May • Festival Trad’Envie, Pavie, 24-27 May • Contemporary Dance, Marciac, 13 May

• Music Concert, SaintElix-d’Astarac, 11 Jun • A Day Discovering Archeology, Eauze, 16 to 18 Jun • Extraordinary glass

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

exhibition, Lavardens, from now to 24 Sep • Open Golf Competition, Lombez, 11 Jun • Concert Requiem, Eauze, 12 Jun

• Run & Bike Course, Condom, 25 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

www.justkitchens.fr Our family run business was established in France in 2007 and has been successfully designing and installing beautiful kitchens ever since. Michael Staines, who has more than 30 years of experience in the field, works together with Timothy and Felicity to ensure every project runs smoothly and professionally. The Just Kitchens team can offer you a completely personal service from design to finished space. We will take your initial ideas through to the reality of a beautiful and practical kitchen, fitted to the highest standards. You are always welcome to join us for a coffee and chat about your project at one of our showrooms in the Gers, SW France. Please see our website for details: www.justkitchens.fr Timothy

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TARN ET GARONNE

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BUZZ

Space for Art

TARN ET GARONNE

THIS WILL ROCK YOU

The fabulous INEXtremis is bringing its tribute to Queen, the band, to Le Rio Grande

FLOWER POWER

It’s that time of year when villages burst into colour with their Marché aux Fleurs. On 22 May it’s the turn of MONTPEZAT-DEQUERCY, 06 08 54 71 40, and SEPTFONDS, 05 53 64 90 27, followed by a rare plant extravaganza at SAINTNICOLAS-DE-LA-GRAVE on 29th. At this, the 56th fair, you will also be able to find aromatic and medicinal plants as well as exotics, old-fashioned roses and iris. www.lascalicaire.fr

in MONTAUBAN on 14 May at 20:30. We bet you will find it hard to stay in your seats with songs like Killer Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody and I Want It All. These are (sure to be) the days of our lives. It’s (definitely going to be) a kind of magic and, maybe, heaven for everyone! The show must go on and with tickets priced at EUR 15, we are sure it will. www.rio-rande.fr

With five rooms dedicated to art in all its forms, Espace Points de Vue in LAUZERTE is presenting works by artists Béatrice Elso, Mélanie Pasquier, Charles Malherbe and SYLC up to 25 May. Following a vernissage on 28 May at 18:30, the display welcomes Marie-Hélène Carcanague together with sculptures from Jean-Pierre Chollet and Davide Galbiati, alongside photographer Maïlo. www.artpointsdevue.com

DORDOGNE

FESTIVAL SCENE

Montauban en Scénes is a must-see (and hear) series of concerts over four nights at MONTAUBAN from 23 to 26 June. Bringing together three artists on the main stage at the Jardin des Plantes each night, a festival village will also be open from 17:00 with refreshments and giant screens to zoom right into artists such as James BKS, Calogero and Gaëten Roussel. www.montauban-en-scenes.fr

It’s a Rally!

Organised by the Rotary Club, the fun Rallye Auto/Moto on 4 June is a car and motorcycle rally aimed at discovering the Quercy Caussadais region, complete with its historical links to the 100-years war. The eight-hour event, which leaves CAUSSADE at 07:00 has three objectives: to discover the local attractions, to collect funds in support of the CIDFF (Information Centre for Women and Families) and to promote local producers. Contact rotarycaussademidiquercy@gmail.com to register.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Two hikes of 27 and 13km, and a 13km randonnée pédestre (walk) set off from MONTRICOUX on 19 June in the Trail des Garriques. Registration is at 07:30 for these single-loop events through the Grésigne forest and the Aveyron gorges with a succession of climbs and descents and wondrous views of the Bruniquel châteaux. There’s also music from the Occitan Awakening and a day-long garage sale. 06 86 96 07 55.

Mount Up

Here’s your chance to join a group of like-minded equestrians and enjoy a randonnée through a lake or river, Le Forêt de la Garrique, or simply enjoy the gorges, ridges and scenery around BRUNIQUEL. Aimed at riders over the age of 12, various events are planned for each Sunday in May and June. www.domaine-equestre-des-balades.fr

NAME THAT CLASSIC

From Bizet to Vivaldi, 11 musicians from l’Orchestre de Chambre du Capitole will be performing Les Classiques du Classique at MOLIERES on 10 June at 19:30. Over two hours they will be presenting their interpretation of famous classics from masters such as Strauss, Bizet, Lehar, Mozart, Bach, Vivaldi, Massenet, Boccherini and Rossini. The works are sure to be instantly recognisable but can you name the film in which they were each featured? Tickets start at €16. 06 62 64 24 97.

TARN ET GARONNE

TRAIL & AWAKENING

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Develour in Concert, Nègrepelisse, 19 May • Festival des Sports, Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, 26 to 28 May • Expo Céline Bocquet,

Montricoux, 24 Apr to 4 Jun • Classic Cars, Montaigu de Quercy, 5 Jun • Quartier de Cirque, Montauban, 11 Jun

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

• Polynesian Market, Lafrançaise, 11 & 12 Jun • Madagascar Makay Expo, Montauban, to 21 June • Courses Hippiques, Beaumont-de-Lomagne,

26 Jun • Marche Nordique, Lauzerte, to 28 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

N HAUTE GARONNE

what’s the

BUZZ

N.HAUTE GARONNE

YOUR SONG

FOUR DAYS OF JAZZ Looking for some jazz? Then venture out to the Festival Jazz en COMMINGES from 25 May. This 19th edition features a programme packed with over 20 bands at different venues offering traditional, contemporary and modern jazz over four days. Opened by the Philro Jazz project at 14:30, it closes with Mai Les Papys Bass Stone on the Saturday. www.jazzencomminges.com

The Rocket Man will be taking the Yellow Brick Road to the Zenith in TOULOUSE on 19 May for a tribute to the great Sir Elton John as part of Pop Legends. You won’t be able to hold a Candle In The Wind but you might have to Sacrifice your seat in order to dance to Crocodile Rock! Also performing will be The Bestbeat as the Beatles and Abba Mania. Do You Want To Know a Secret? It’s going to be a lot of fun so why not join them and be a Super Trouper. www.zenith-toulousemetropole.com

DORDOGNE

Air Show

Every year two prestigious schools in the Toulouse aeronautics sector present the Airexpo, the only air show in the world organised entirely by students. This 36th edition on 14 May is full of surprises and brings the chance to sit in the cockpit of the 1560 km/h Super Etendard, and take a look around the Morane-Saulnier 733 as used for pilot training mid-20th-century. Amongst many other fascinating exhibits is the last Bréguet 1050 Alizé to be maintained in airworthy condition, complete with folding wings. www.airexpo.org

TRY THE TRI?

This is not for the faint-hearted! Starting with a 1200m swim at Lake Badech, the competitors then switch to a 94km bike ride on a terrain that combines flat spells with the Portet-deBalès climb and a complicated course. Then it’s the turn of a 16.8km run in two loops. You can join or watch the Triathlon de Luchon at BAGNERES-DE-LUCHON on 11 Jun. 06 75 85 19 09.

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

Return of The 7’s!

The 27th Festival Rio Loco is taking us to Portugal this year with Nova Onda in TOULOUSE from 15 to 19 June. Joining dozens of musicians such as Agnes Obel, Lucie Antunes and Rodrigo Cuevas is Nidia with her percussive beats, blasting the boundaries between electro, dance, kuduro, afro house, trap, techno, rap, grime and afrobeat. The publicity promises a shaking up of labels as well as aesthetics and a release of overflowing creativity. Sounds like it shouldn’t be missed! www.rio-loco.org

The French leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series returns to the Ernest-Wallon stadium in TOULOUSE from 20 to 22 May, promising entertainment, sport and fun! The tournament, which features both men’s and women’s teams, kicks off at 17:00 on the Friday and includes a concert on Saturday evening. Tickets are available daily or as a three-day pass. www.billetterie.ffr.fr

TORMENT & PASSION

Step back to the time of the pharaohs in Egypt for Aïda, a tale of jealousy, passion, war and betrayal in TOULOUSE on 5 June. Composed in 1871 by Giussepi Verdi, the story tells how Amonasro, King of Ethiopia, is threatening to attack Thèbes and the Nile Valley. A young Egyptian captain named Radamès is in love with Aïda, a pretty Ethiopian slave. This is opera so nothing is going to go smoothly and he doesn’t know she is the King’s daughter! Just to complicate matters, the Pharaohs daughter, Amneris, is in love with Radamès. There may be trouble ahead… www.zenith-toulousemetropole.com

N HAUTE GARONNE DORDOGNE

OFF TO PORTUGAL

Q Other events can be found at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/what’s-on and include • Homage to Yann Tiersen, piano, Toulouse, 13 May • Car/Men, Les Chicos Mambo, Muret, 20 May • L’Enigme Anglaise, Toulouse, 26 May

• Erdöwsky concert, 27 May, Fonsorbes • Johnny Symponique Tour, Toulouse, 31 May • Mon Ravel à Moi, Toulouse, 4 Jun

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

•G uitar Festival, Montaigut-sur-Save, 1 to 5 Jun • Fest’l Eco-Responsable, Roques, 18 Jun • Expo Vive l’Eau,

Fonsorbes, 10 May to 25 Jun Enter your region on the website and click search to find all types of events.

Glorious Herbs HOMES + GARDENS

Late spring and early summer is a time of abundance in the herb garden. Sue Adams grows these magnificent seven every year for their taste and marvellous foliage.

The weather is warm and there is still (usually) plenty of moisture in the ground at this time of year. Perennial herbs have produced fresh growth and annuals are flourishing. They are also a very welcome addition to your cooking, waking up palates which have become jaded after months of heavy winter food. You can grow herbs whether you have a dedicated herb garden, a single flower bed or simply a city balcony. All you need is fertile ground or a generous plant pot, and sunshine.

MINT

CHIVES

Mint is so easy to grow that if you don’t control it, it will take over your garden. Mint comes in a wide range of varieties, but unless you have lots of space stick to common mint and, possibly, apple mint as they have big leaves and a good flavour. Mint spreads vigorously, so always plant it in a container or in an informal corner of the garden where you can mow around it and so restrict its spread.

A member of the onion family, chives can be grown from seed or bought as a clump of bulbs which will spread over the years. It is pretty, with purple flowers in the early summer, and is invaluable as a garnish or addition to an omelette or salad. Chives also look attractive in a flower bed or in pot by the back door.

PARSLEY Traditionally sown at the end of winter, legend has it that the seeds will only germinate if a woman is the boss in a household. I have no trouble growing it, so that might be wrong. For this year you could buy a couple of plants in pots, but sow some as well, as the luxury of unlimited mint and parsley is the secret to so much summer food. Pick only the outside leaves of your parsley plant and it will continue to generate more growth throughout the summer. Your parsley will run to seed in year two and then die but it may sow the next year’s crop for you as it does so.

TARRAGON A personal favourite. I use it in vinegars, salads (it combines well with walnut oil) and with chicken and rabbit dishes. Tarragon is a perennial so it grows back every year but, unlike mint, it is not invasive. Plant it in a permanent, sunny position and cut it back to promote fresh young growth if it gets leggy as summer progresses.

DILL I love dill and dill seeds which I collect each year from its flowers. I sow the seeds directly into the soil from March onwards and then thin the plants out as they germinate and develop. Dill looks similar to fennel but, unlike fennel, I find it dies every year and needs to be

www.thelocalbuzzmag.com

HOMES + GARDENS

As well as a great cooking ingredient, herbs can be used to relax and heal the body, to add flavour in teas and cocktails, and to add scent to shampoos, soaps, oils, perfumes and candles. Mint is said to keep mice away, lemon balm can help to fight fatigue, thyme is a natural disinfectant and antiseptic, parsley is thought to remove dark circles under the eyes, basil is an anti-bacterial and acne treatment, and peppermint can soothe headaches. Who knew!

re-sown. It doesn’t regrow well after picking, so I sow it several times during the year. Pay attention to the watering because if you let it dry out you can easily lose it. A word of warning: if you plant it near to fennel there is a danger that they will cross pollenate creating a hybrid (which I call fiddle) next year.

BASIL The herb of high summer. I usually grow about four plants and find this is enough to make lots of pesto, tomato salads and soups, and to use as an addition to Mediterranean dishes. There is a wide range of basil varieties which you can buy, some have better flavours and larger leaves than others. My own favourite is Genovese basil, which is the only one that I grow.

SORREL Sorrel likes shade and a heavier soil, and plenty of moisture. I grow it in a separate part of the garden where conditions are right. It’s in the same family as rhubarb, which gives you a clue to its growing conditions, but it looks a lot like a clump of dock leaves. With a distinctive, sharp lemony tang it is a much more muscular herb than the other six and is marvellous in soups, egg dishes and sauces. Each of these herbs can be bought now as young plants or, in the case of dill, sown now. Even if you are only here for the summer months or have just acquired a new garden, you can start your collection of herbs straight away and have a plentiful supply this year.

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

Sue Adams has lived in SW France for 15 years and is developing a small field into a garden with orchard, vegetable and soft fruit garden, flower beds, dry garden and a wildlife haven. It’s still a work in progress. You can read more from Sue at www.jardinpaysan.com

HOMES + GARDENS

May & June

In the garden

All change! Spring glides imperceptibly into summer. At least that is what Sue Adams is hoping for after a very misleading start to the year; drought and plum blossom in March, warnings of frost in April, lily of the valley in flower a month early - what will French children give to their mothers on 1 May? As ever, it is a time of year to be alert to capricious changes of the weather and adjust plans accordingly. • Continue to deadhead bulbs and cut back their foliage once it has gone brown. Prune spring flowering deciduous shrubs as soon as the flowers have died back. This gives them the maximum opportunity to create new growth which will host next year’s flowers. Candidates include forsythia, coronilla glauca, flowering currants, some viburnums, cistus and philadelphus. • Tender plants can now be brought outside and tender vegetables such as tomatoes, chillis and French beans can be planted directly into the ground. Whenever you move a plant from the shelter of

a glasshouse or cold frame it is a good idea to harden them off for a few days (by putting them in the open and bringing them under cover during the night) rather than shock them with a sudden move. • Watch out for pests. Slugs and snails, aphids, lily beetles, box caterpillars and whitefly can proliferate, devastating young growth in warm, damp environments. • Deadhead roses (unless you want the seedheads to develop into ornamental hips) and feed them (tomato food is ideal) after their first flush of flowers. • Weed whenever possible and, if you have not already done so this year, mulch over freshly weeded ground while it is still damp. This reduces future weed growth and helps retain moisture. • Water when necessary and feed pot plants weekly. Remember, even after it has rained, the rain will not necessarily have hydrated your pot plants and they will still need water. Either early morning, or in the evening is fine – there are arguments for both, but avoid the heat of the day.

Join our team

The Local Buzz is growing and we are looking to extend our team to include auto/micro entrepreneurs in Gironde, Dordogne, Lot et Garonne, Lot, Gers, Tarn et Garonne and N Haute Garonne. At the moment we have opportunities in Sales, focusing on our printed magazine and upcoming new website. Past sales experience is required and knowledge of media sales would be helpful. The ability to speak French would be a bonus. Retainer plus commission, target-based bonuses, flexible hours and working from home. What could be better! Want to know more? Send your CV and contact details to Lesley Ashburner at lesley@thelocalbuzzmag.com

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Postal Subscriptions Don’t risk not being able to pick up a copy of the latest issue (we know they buzz out of the door very quickly once delivered) – have it sent direct to your door instead! The fee for six issues includes postage and packaging. We are very sorry to say that, following Brexit, we are no longer able to accept subscriptions for the UK unless the subscription is taken out in France. Within France: EUR 35 Other countries in the EU: EUR 47 Rest of the world: EUR 55 Take out your subscription online at

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NEWS

NOTEW

ORTHY

BUZZ BITS

A few news snippets of interest to our region NEW COVID?

Scam Alert If you receive a message saying you need to update your Carte Vitale and pay for its delivery, ignore it! It’s a new scam (une nouvelle arnaque). Your bank details will then be used by scammers

as they go on a shopping spree. The give-away is that Assurance Maladie would not be asking for your medical and/or bank details by message, and would not be using a bit.ly address.

MINIMUM WAGE RISE

The national statistics institute (Insee) has confirmed that

inflation rose by 4.5% in March as a result of the effects of Covid on the global supply chain and, also, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. For this reason, the French minimum wage has risen again, from 1 May, to €1302.64/month net, giving workers an extra €72/ month since this time last year.

Routes Update

British Airways is back at Gatwick with flights to/from Bordeaux starting on 16 May. EasyJet is also now flying Gatwick-Limoges. New RyanAir flights to Porto have been announced out of Bergerac, and

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

Toulouse has welcomed 24 new European routes with RyanAir.

We are sad to report that another Covid concern has been identified in France. As Omicron variants, the new BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants are slightly different from the original Omicron and are the result of mutation. All that is known so far is that both BA.4 and .5 contain the L425R mutation which was also found in the Delta variant. At the time of writing, the known cases have not shown any particularly worrying symptoms or clinical presentation. Fingers crossed.

A sustainable first

The first Airbus A380 to be powered by 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAV) took off from Blagnac Airport, Toulouse on 25 March. The flight lasted around three hours, operating one RollsRoyce Trent 900 engine on 100% SAF. Total Energies provided the 27 tons of unblended SAF for the flight.

WEDDINGS

Preparing for the

BIG day Weddings are one of the most special occasions in our lives, and one of the most stressful. Here we highlight the legal aspects and offer advice on ways to make it truly memorable.

Whilst in Japan solo weddings are becoming popular where young women celebrate youth and independence with a dedication to themselves, we take a look at the more traditional event here in France.

THE LEGALS Many people opt to marry in their home country and then celebrate in France and, in looking at the legal aspects of marriage in France, it’s an understandable decision. A French marriage starts with a civil wedding at the Mairie, then a ceremonial wedding a day or so later with a religious, multi-faith or non-religious service. Naturally, there is paperwork to complete so you really can’t just arrive and marry. If you don’t have the necessary documents you may have to spend at least 30 days prior to the service in the commune where you plan to be married. Then there are the contracts and French law offers a range of options to suit your circumstances. The Régime Légal de Communauté Réduite allows each partner to retain ownership of their property and inheritances, whilst anything acquired during the marriage is owned jointly. The Communauté Universelle ensures that everything before and after marriage is jointly owned and goes direct to the spouse. If each spouse chooses to retain their own assets separately, they will need a Séparation de Biens.

this in mind, is easier to dissolve than a civil marriage. That said, around 40% of cancelled PACS are because the couples have decided to marry after all!

PLANNING

Originally aimed at same sex couples, the Pacte Civil de Solidarité (PACS) has grown in popularity amongst heterosexuals too. In terms of French law, it can be ideal for divorcees, widowers and young people as it doesn’t affect the inheritance rights of dependents. At the same time it enables inclusion in the couple’s taxation system and, not that the duo start out with

Beth Stretton of Marry Me in France has years of experience in choosing venues and planning weddings. She gives us this oversight. You have decided on an area in France for your wedding, now what? The best place to start your plans is often with the venue and finding one that is appropriate for your needs is not always easy. Are you planning a small or large number of guests, will they be staying over, would you like a church at the venue or to be in walking distance or able to use the monolithic church, do you want to bring

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WEDDINGS

your dog? This is where local knowledge comes in and can prove to be invaluable. Good wedding planners will have their own tried and tested venues, ensuring a smooth and experience-driven process. Working closely with the owners, they understand what is both possible at, and what can be provided by, the venue and, because they will have talked with you at length, can ensure that your wedding is as individual to you as you are. Current trends can be incorporated along with the more obvious elements such as colour schemes and ethnic requirements but, with years of practical experience behind them, the planner will also have a wealth of ideas and suggestions to turn your marriage into a harmonious, memorable and, most of all, happy occasion.

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

www.myweddingflorist.fr We are an event company with a difference. Under one roof, we hire tables, chairs, tableware, props, lighting as well as styling, design and wedding coordination. And, of course, beautiful florals. We work with our couples to design a beautiful day that suits their personalities and source special items to create a bespoke look.

Located about 40 mins from Bergerac airport in the undulating hills of the Lot et Garonne countryside, our beautiful elegant venue with reception barn, spectacular views, manicured gardens and 8 acre grounds is available for weddings and special celebrations. For up to 90 people seated and accommodation for up to 15 people on site in 4 cottages with large heated pool. 2023 dates are available! We offer a bespoke wedding service and can do as little or as much as you like. Vintage china, crystal glasses, table cloths, furnishings and lighting included. Find out more at www.luxuryholidayfrance.co.uk and https://www.instagram.com/juliet.lamaison/ or contact me at juliet.lamaison@orange.fr. Our wedding planner Sheena can organise catering, flowers, entertainment, celebrant and budget planning etc. www.thelittlefrenchweddingcompany.com

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WEDDINGS Then of course, because the wedding is here in France, there is the added benefit of having someone fluent in the French language, not to mention a keen knowledge of local wines, gourmet foods and even which flowers work best when the sun is at its hottest. Another major benefit is a financial one. It is no easy task to go it alone, collating all the information sent to you by suppliers and venues in French and without that all important local knowhow. When comparing the basic rental of a property, for instance, the various charges, add-ons and supplier costs will not be taken into account. Filtering out what could well turn out to be the perfect location is all too easy at this stage. Venues might quote a “from price” which is, typically, only available in the low season and might not even be appropriate for you and your theme. Weddings for small parties are obviously lower in cost than the larger occasions and are often comparable with the prices one might expect in the UK for instance. However, a wedding here in France will not be the same. For a similar budget you could be looking at several days spent with friends and family, enjoying both a wedding and a break, amazing food and wine and quality services. www.marrymeinfrance.com www.perfectlittlewedding. com

CATERING TIPS What will be in season, what will be appropriate for the venue, what about special diets, which wines pair with what? Unless you know the inside outs of French gastronomy and its local specialities you could struggle to find a cost-effective, delicious solution. We asked Roseanne Greenhalgh of Party in France for some tips on catering. She suggests we bear these things in mind when talking to a caterer.

ROSEANNE GREENHALGH Catering and planning for weddings and events at any location Private chef services

Every event is unique, please discuss with Rosie at:

rosie@partyinfrance.com 0650554299 www.partyinfrance.com PLACE DE LA HALLE 46250 GOUJOUNAC

SIRET 81093658300022

Price The cheapest is not always the best. A good caterer will be able to work with your vision and offer a range of budgets. Communication is the key. Be prepared to discuss options to make it work for you. Logistics Good catering is not just about fabulous food, it is also about making sure it arrives hot to the table (and you) on time, and correct. Service is just as important, staff are more expensive than food but you need them. Trust A good caterer will always be working in your best interests. If you have found a good supplier, you have to trust that they are going to help make your day wonderful. Equally, the trust goes both ways so please don’t forget to feed suppliers working for you all day. www.partyinfrance.com

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

WEDDINGS

CHURCH WEDDINGS South west France is as popular as ever as a location and offers many excellent venues. But what happens if you want a ‘church’ wedding, especially if you want the ceremony to be conducted in English? We asked Chaplain, Rev’d Tony Lomas if that is possible. He explains that the answer to that question is emphatically, yes! The Anglican Chaplaincy of Aquitaine, part of the Church of England’s Diocese in Europe, has been ministering to the English-speaking community in this part of France for almost 200 years. Covering an area that takes in the Gironde (including Bordeaux), Dordogne and Lot et Garonne, the Chaplaincy is well placed to provide couples with a Christian wedding service in English or in French. Weddings can take place in a variety of venues other than in one of the churches used in the Chaplaincy. If required, we can help to find a suitable church near the chosen wedding venue, although many couples choose to use a chapel situated in a chateau or even a less formal setting, such as a garden, for their special event. Making promises to one another before God is an important step, made all the more special because it is made in the company of family and friends. We always strive to make sure the wedding service is a meaningful experience for each couple and an event that will live on in the memory long after the wedding day itself.

One big difference, especially for couples coming from Britain or Ireland, is that the religious ceremony in France does not include the formal legal act of marriage. French residents will normally arrange for a civil marriage ceremony at their local Mairie (town hall) just before the church wedding. Couples coming from abroad are required to have been married at their local Registry Office before coming to France for the religious ceremony. Apart from this one important detail, the ceremony used in the Chaplaincy will be very familiar to anyone who has attended an Anglican wedding in Britain, or elsewhere. On occasions we are also asked to conduct a service for couples who wish to renew their marriage vows, perhaps to mark a significant anniversary. This is a somewhat simpler ceremony and can be arranged in almost any location. www.churchinaquitaine.org/weddings

More information You will also find information on non-secular or multi-faith weddings, along with flowers and photography in our Mar/Apr 2020 weddings feature online at www. thelocalbuzzmag.com/read-online English-speaking wedding planners, Celebrants, florists, photographers, caterers, venues and even car hire can be found in our business directory listings at www. thelocalbuzzmag.com/businessdirectory/

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WEDDINGS

OH DEAR MARIE! Imagine the pomp and ceremony when these three Royal brides, all named Marie, married! Mind you, not everything went to plan, despite the lavish preparations, and marriages were not quite the same in those days… Marie Antoinette married Louis-August, Dauphin of France and heir apparent to the French throne, in May 1770 at just 14 years of age. Her silver, white and diamond covered dress was considered scandalous – not because of its over-thetop splendour but because, apparently, it was too small, leaving the lacing and shift sticking out at the back. Louis ascended to the throne four years later but it is claimed their marriage was not consummated for 7 years.

Marie Leszcynska became Queen of France when she married Louis XV in 1725. She was 22, seven years older than her husband, and her dress, which was worn under a velvet robe lined with ermine, was said to be so heavily adorned with jewels that she nearly fainted. Louis was said to have fallen in love with her instantly and consummated his marriage to her seven times on their wedding night! Nine months later their first two children were born, the first of ten (eight girls and two boys). The only boy to survive was Louis.

Marie Louise of Austria was the second wife of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, marrying him by proxy in 1810 following his divorce from Joséphine de Beauharnais who had not produced an heir. She wore a silver, pearls and lamé dress under the imperial crimson and gold cloak. Her shoes, which were too tight and very uncomfortable, were made especially in white satin embroidered with silver. They had one child Napoleon Francis Joseph Charles, who reigned for just two weeks.

“In times of crisis, it is of utmost importance to keep one’s head” Marie Antoinette

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

FOOD + DRINK

Fresh & Yummy

! m a i M Miam Mushroom Tart with Poached Egg & Hollandaise Sauce

Emma and John Gilchrist

Spring is definitely here and with it comes the the enjoyment of eating outdoors with delicious fresh flavours and scrumptious desserts. This combination of a mushroom tart and puffy profiteroles from Emma, and sweet wines from John is sure to please. Miam miam? It’s French for yummy! 38

(Serves 6) Mushroom Duxelles 1 tbs Mild olive oil 300g Mushrooms, cleaned and finely diced 1 Shallot, finely diced Small bunch of fresh tarragon, finely chopped 50cl Dry vermouth or wine Salt and pepper Heat the oil in a frying pan over a gentle heat and then add the mushrooms, shallot and tarragon. Sauté these gently, until all the moisture from the mushrooms has evaporated (this will take about 25 mins, depending on the width of your pan). The best way to test that it’s ready is to trail a wooden spoon through the middle of the pan. If juices appear in its wake, keep cooking for five more mins and try it again. The spoon should leave a clear path behind it. Add the vermouth and cook until dry. Season to taste.

Allow to cool and refrigerate until needed. Basic Pastry Cases For the pastry cases please see the recipe for Basic Short Crust Pastry at www.thelocalbuzzmag.com/ articles/basic-shortcrustpastry-cases/ Easy Hollandaise Sauce 250g Unsalted butter 4 Large egg yolks 1 tbs Freshly squeezed lemon juice ¼ tsp Salt Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Cut the butter into a few large pieces and microwave in 30-second bursts until the butter is completely melted. Use the butter when it is no longer piping hot, but is still very warm. Place the egg yolks, lemon juice, and salt in a blender and pulse to combine. Slowly trickle in the warm butter, starting with a few drops, then a thin drizzle. Once you’ve added about half the butter, check the consistency. Continue pouring the butter and occasionally checking the sauce until the sauce is as thick or thin as you would like it, or until you have added all the butter. When done, the hollandaise should be light yellow with a smooth, uniform consistency. Add the cayenne and a little more salt and lemon juice if needed. If the sauce seems a little too thick, blend in some water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce is at your preferred consistency.

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All the sweet stuff

FOOD + DRINK

We are blessed with award-winning, lusciously sweet wine throughout our region. John explains why these are three of his favourites.

Château Doisy Daëne is a super smart offering from the Denise Dubourdieu wine stable and excels as a very rich, modern Barsac wine with a coppery gold colour and floral notes. Pale peach and pears on the nose, with a pineapple acidity and a honey finish. Available in many good supermarkets. 35.00€ www.denisdubourdieu.fr

To assemble You will also need 6 fresh eggs. Place the pastry cases on a baking sheet, fill with the Mushroom Duxelles and heat gently in the oven until warm. Poach 6 eggs and place one egg on each tart. Spoon over the hollandaise sauce and place under the grill or use a blow torch to brown the hollandaise and serve.

Profiteroles

(Makes 30) 140g Plain flour, sifted 1 tsp Golden caster sugar 115g Unsalted butter, in small pieces 225g Eggs (about 4 large or 5 medium) 200g Melted chocolate 250ml Whipped cream ½ tsp Fine salt 240ml Water Put the sugar, butter and salt into a large pan with the water. Heat very gently until the butter has melted, then increase the heat and bring the liquid to the boil. As soon as it’s bubbling,

Just south west of Bergerac, near the village of Saussignac, Château de Fayolle produces the stunning Saussignac vin, Liquoreux in 50cl bottles. Sweet Caribbean lime and Madagascan vanilla on the nose give way to sweet ripe apple acidity then pure cleanness on the palate. Simply beautiful! 15.00€ www.chateaufayolle.com

lower the heat, tip in the cream and beat it in with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth dough that clumps together, leaving the rest of the pan clean. Carry on beating and cooking over a low heat for five mins (steam should continue to rise from the mixture). Cool for five mins, then add the eggs one at a time, beating in completely between each egg, until the dough is smooth and glossy but still thick. It should drop very reluctantly from the spoon, too runny and you won’t be able to pipe it, too thick and the buns won’t puff up in the oven. Dampen a sheet of baking paper and use it to line a large baking sheet (or two small ones). Heat the oven to 200°C fan /180°C/gas 6. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round nozzle, and pipe 30 walnut-sized balls, spaced apart for rising. Dip your finger in a little water

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

to smooth out any bumps or peaks in the dough, then put the tray or trays in the oven and bake for 30-35 mins until they are puffed, golden and crisp. Turn off the oven but leave them in for another 30

In the Côtes de Duras, the large co-operative of Berticot have produced 1er Frimas. A late harvest, handpicked and barrelaged sweet wine that is 100% Semillon. Candied mango and limes on the nose with dried apricots and lots of honey on the palate. 9.50€ www.berticot.com

mins before transferring the profiteroles to a wire rack to cool. Make a hole in the bottom of each with a knife and allow to cool completely. Pipe in whipped cream, dip in melted chocolate and serve.

Emma and John Gilchrist have been running their gîte and cookery school, Les Caulins, in Lot-et-Garonne since March 2016. Emma has worked with great chefs in some of the best restaurants around the world and John, a former UK Sommelier of the Year and winner of the Mondavi award for the best wine list in the world, is an enthusiast for the smaller wine producers. www.lescaulins.com

GUEST CHEF

Organic & Delicious Vincent Bonnin

Showcasing the best of their own Permaculture, farm produce and fresh, locally sourced ingredients and foraged treasures, Vanessa and Vincent Bonnin offer stunning food at La Closerie de la Beyne restaurant and gites in Naussannes, Dordogne. With experience in multiple Michelin-starred establishments around the world, Chef Vincent creates Mediterranean style dishes that combine flair with flavour. His menu, which changes weekly, has a seasonal and organic focus that perfectly marries home-grown produce with his international influences.

PORK LOIN WITH GINGER AND SOY SAUCE, POTATO ROSTI, SALAD OF CHINESE CABBAGE, CARROT AND SESAME (Serves 6) 3 Pork tenderloins 4 Large potatoes 4 Carrots 1 Long turnip (navet) 1 Chinese cabbage 50g Fresh ginger (finely grated) 4 Garlic cloves (crushed) 1 Hot chilli pepper 1 Spring onion 1/2 Bunch coriander 6 tbs Soy sauce 3 tbs Asian fish sauce Juice of 1 lime 1 tbs Roasted sesame seeds 2 tbs Toasted sesame oil

1 tbs Roasted and crushed peanuts 2 tbs Rapeseed oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper

FOR THE PORK

Remove as much of the fat and membranes as possible. Combine the soy sauce, 2 tbs fish sauce, 1 tbs sesame oil, ginger and garlic, and marinate the tenderloins (2 to 3 hours min). Heat a pan, remove the pork fillets from the marinade and sear them. Baste the

fillets with the marinade throughout the cooking process. Leave to rest for 10 mins in a warm place.

FOR THE POTATO CAKE

Peel the potatoes, grate them without washing them, add salt and pepper. Heat a frying pan, pour in a little rapeseed oil and spread the grated potatoes. Flatten with a spoon and cook over medium heat. Turn them over when the potatoes are nicely browned and cook the second side. Keep warm. Vincent’s Vanilla Panna Cotta

FOR THE SALAD

Julienne the carrots, turnip, cabbage, chilli, onion and remaining ginger. Mix well together, season with 1 tbs of sesame oil, 1 tbs of fish sauce and the lime juice and mix again.

TO SERVE:

Finish the salad by stirring in the chopped coriander and sesame seeds. Portion the potato cake and slice the pork fillets. Arrange on a plate and sprinkle with peanuts and coriander.

You can find this recipe in French (Mignon de porc au gingembre et sauce soja, croustillant de pomme de terre, salade de chou chinois, carotte et sesame), along with Vincent’s fabulous Vanilla Panna Cotta with Strawberries (Panna cotta à la vanille, fraises de saison) at www. thelocalbuzzmag.com/ articles

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The Great Outdoors E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Ready for those sunny days outside and those balmy evenings, watching the sun go down as night-time brings a change of atmosphere? We thought it would be fun to look at the latest gizmos and gadgets to enhance the outdoor experience.

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

FUN IDEAS Thinking of the lighting, LED lights complete with Bluetooth speakers are a great combination and can be waterproof for by the pool or spa too. Don’t just settle for a circle of LED lights around the outer edge of your parasol, you can now buy sets that spread out like a spiders web to cover the spokes and shed light all round. For many, flaming torch stands have had their day but solar, moving-flame-effect versions are shining a new light on the subject of garden lighting and safety.

A set of 4 torche de jardin torche solaire, €39.13 from amazon.fr Planchas, BBQ’s, pizza ovens, heaters, smokers, fire pits and even BBQ mats, where do we stop? Here’s something else to consider: small, portable BBQs are ideal for those moments when you don’t want to fire up the big grill or just want to heat up some appetizers. Garden decorations have come a long way too with decorated spikes for hanging plants, bird food and lights. Some just look pretty whilst others can have a more practical use such as holding a glass when taking that winning croquet shot! Speaking of hanging, are you

A smokeless, portable mini-BBQ (26cm dia), €39.15, manomano.fr bothered by mozzies? Hanging Citronella coils can actually look good and keep them at bay for hours.

A hanging retro wrought iron mosquito coil frame, €25.95 from fruugo.fr

TASTY IDEAS Marinades make all the difference, as does that that heady aroma of herbs such as rosemary thrown onto the BBQ or plancha. • A bunch of roughly chopped coriander and flat-leaf parsley make a great marinade for chicken when mixed with a crushed garlic clove and 3tbs each of white wine vinegar and sunflower or vegetable oil. For that extra kick, add a thinly sliced chilli. • You can never go wrong with a Teriyaki sauce for dipping or marinading meat

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

and vegetables! Heat up 175ml water in a pan with 40g soft brown sugar, 35ml light soy sauce, a small crushed garlic clove and 1tbs ginger powder. Stir to dissolve the sugar and simmer for 3 mins. Make a paste with ½ tbs cornflour and add to the sauce. Heat until thickened. • Fish and chicken will taste amazing with a coconut-chilli marinade. Just blend a 1-inch piece of ginger with 2 chillies, 40g dessicated coconut, 7tbs sesame oil and 1tbs fish sauce to a paste. Marinade for at least 5 hours. • Garlic bread (three ways) is another winner. Make deep cuts through the top of a baguette (but not all the way through). Soften butter in a microwave, roughly chop as much garlic as you like, finely chop sprigs of parsley and mix them together, then slather it on between the slices. Wrap in tin foil and bake on the BBQ or in an oven. For a lighter version use olive oil instead of butter, or toast baguette slices and rub them with a halved and peeled garlic clove. • There is nothing like home-made lemonade, especially if you have lemon trees! Start by rolling nine lemons on a hard surface to release the juices, then squeeze them. Make a sugar syrup with 1.75 cups of white sugar and a cup of water (stir over heat until sugar has melted). Add 7 cups of very cold water to a jug or container, stir in the lemon juice (with any pulp) then add the sugar syrup and ice. Whatever else you add is up to you!

H I S TO RY

The humble baguette? If France has its way, the French baguette will soon be sitting alongside the likes of UNESCO accredited Couscous, Falconry, Transhumance and Turkish coffee, clearly demonstrating its significance to its country. France put the baguette forward for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage status in March 2021, partly because it is a national treasure but, also, to protect French bakers and their artisanal methods. We should know if the bid has been successful by the end of 2022 but, what is in absolutely no doubt, is the popularity of this staple and, some might say, quintessential French food.

FACT OR FICTION? With a history that is hard to trace, the baguette’s origin is surrounded by

myths. We do know that long, wide loaves were made at the time of King Louis XIV but when and why did they become longer and thinner? One myth suggests that Napoleon started the trend for long, thin sticks as they were easier for his soldiers to carry. Then there is the “Bread of Equality” theory following a decree that required bread to be accessible to both rich and poor after the French Revolution. Another claims that arguments between workers on the Paris metro construction site in the late 19th-century prompted

the shape, making it easier to tear the bread and share, rather than using knives which could provoke violence. Or perhaps it was when an early 20th-century law prevented bakers from working before 4am. As a result, it became impossible to bake traditional round loaves in time for breakfast and the thinner, longer shape solved the problem. This last theory contradicts the 1898 description by Louis Charles Elson who wrote, as part of his European Reminiscences, Musical and Otherwise,

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H I S TO RY

It’s a national treasure! that “Housemaids were hurrying homewards with their purchases for various Gallic breakfasts, and the long sticks of bread, a yard or two [0.9 m to 1.8 m] in length, carried under their arms, made an odd impression upon me.” Interestingly, this supports a passage in a supplement to the Courant in March 1867 entitled From London to Paris which states “….loaves of bread six feet (1.8m) long that look like crowbars!”

Fantastic on its own (we all know about those end pieces that have disappeared by the time they reach home), with cheese, soup, paté, jam and any filling that takes your fancy, they often form the cornerstone of a French meal. Deliciously crafted by skilful bakers and freshly baked each day, it is little wonder that, according to Planetoscope, around 10 billion of them are consumed each year in France alone!

KNOW YOUR FRENCH BREAD Baguette: the wand or stick that is around 5 to 6 cm in diameter Ficelle: taken from the word for string, this is a thinner version of the above Bâtard: a short, rugby ball-shaped loaf Flûte: about twice the diameter of the standard baguette Baton: a short baguette Miche: a large pan loaf

A REAL FAVOURITE

Boule: a large round loaf or ball

The baguette, as we know it today, was officially given its name in 1920 and is made, quite simply, out of water, flour, yeast and salt. Light, airy and soft on the inside, it has a crisp, golden crust and is usually around 60cm in length.

Pain Viennois: sweeter and softer than a baguette

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Baguette Italienne: with added spices and a denser texture Tiers: a demi-baguette (half) Tartines: slices of French bread

HOME + GARDEN

Home Improvements

Home improvement is one of those seemingly never-ending joys of life. For this, the latest in a series of articles on this enormous subject, we asked three experts to give us their thoughts on their own areas of expertise.

PAINT APPLICATIONS With years of experience, Beverly Hindle of La Belle Maison knows a thing or two about paints. Here is her breakdown of the different paints for different uses: l Matt Emulsion: Ideal for all internal walls with a very flat finish. l Washable Matt Emulsion: Provides a completely washable, flat finish for kitchens, bathrooms and high traffic areas. l Eggshell: For all internal woodwork where a low sheen finish is desired. l Satinwood: Highly durable, satin finish. Ideal for kitchen and bathroom cupboards as well as any internal woodwork. l Gloss: Provides a high sheen for both interior and exterior woodwork. l Exterior oil: For use on all exterior woodwork. l Exterior eggshell: For all exterior woodwork, highly durable with a low sheen. l Exterior masonry paint: Use on all exterior walls and masonry. l Floor paint: Can be used on both woodwork and floor tiles. l Limewash: Suitable for exterior use on lime render. www.la-belle-maison.com

BESPOKE CARPENTRY Graham Havas, the English Cabinet Maker, uses his architectural expertise to help re-interpret living spaces. He believes that a thorough understanding of old French buildings, including how they are constructed and how they function, is an essential part of visualising the possible. An example of this kind of thinking is the use of the above head height space in tall rooms. He has used this space several times to create a mezzanine floor, and then built bookcases to sit on top. With the addition of a staircase and balustrade, a beautiful library can be formed in this previously inaccessible area.

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La Belle Maison is an independent retailer of Little Greene’s high quality, exceptional wallpapers and environmentally-friendly paints. We stock every finish including oil and masonry, kitchens and floors, and every colour. Free consultation to help you choose the right finish and free sample pots to ensure the perfect colour. Facebook: @la.belle.maison or call Beverley on 05 53 64 37 43

With over 132 colours to choose from in the Farrow & Ball collection, in all different ﬁnishes from emulsions to distemper to exterior eggshells and beautiful hand printed wallpaper, it’s easy to create the result you are looking for. Right now it’s all about shutters, front doors and windows with many inspirational photographs to choose from, from traditional to contemporary and, for the more daring, some bright colours.

candice@fabrica.boutique Tel: 05 53 24 70 19 17, rue de l’Engin, 24500 EYMET www.fabrica.boutique

10 Avenue de Marmande, Allemans-du-Dropt, 47800 05 53 64 37 43 - www.la-belle-maison.com

HOME + GARDEN Graham is also a great believer in retaining original structural detailing, yet staying conscious that we are now living in the twenty first century. Take the huge windows he builds for Chateaux for instance. They are constructed using time-honoured techniques and materials, but all the glass is double glazed and gas filled to obtain the maximum level of insulation. Only a close inspection reveals this practical, modern addition. He also explains that there can be false economy in buying ‘off the shelf’ items such as kitchens and fitted wardrobes, and then struggling to make them fit against crooked stone walls, only to arrive at a sad end result and finally calling in an expert to put everything right. www.grahamhavas.com

POOL SAFETY Not forgetting the subject of pools, Andy Wigley has 35 years’ experience in the glass industry and explains why glass fencing offers a clear solution to pool safety. Pool security options include alarms, covers, sliding enclosures and fencing. Alarms sound once someone is in the water and will you have time to reach a small child for instance or would you even hear the alarm if you were listening to music or mowing? Pool covers, including the Abris versions, are a great solution but only when they are closed and, typically, they are left open all day. Metal fencing tends to have unattractive bars and posts and, of course, can easily be climbed over. Glass fencing, on the other hand, is clear with no posts or handrails and is virtually invisible apart from the metal parts at the base. The major benefits are the unobstructed views both in and out of the pool, and a reduction in both wind and water evaporation. As a result, they can also help to maintain temperatures in the pool. Contemporary and aesthetically pleasing, glass fencing is effective 24/7 and, of equal importance, is very strong. Andy tells us that he has driven a golf ball at it at close range and the glass didn’t break. As for cleaning, it requires no more attention than the windows in the house. www.glasspoolfencing.co.uk

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A COLOUR MAKES White: Enlarges a space, creates an impact, clean and simple, very effective with accent colours. Black: Formal and sophisticated, dramatic, effortless elegance that makes a bold statement. Yellow: Cheerful and bright. Muted shades in bedrooms and living areas, brights in kitchens, offices, hallways. Purple: Sophisticated, glamourous and adds drama. Darker shades in dining/living areas, lighter hues in bedrooms. Pink: Very versatile, modern, stylish and even provocative. Works well with neutrals and blues.

Red: Warm, vibrant and glamorous, ideal as part of a pattern, great for dining rooms, change accents with the seasons. Grey: Soothing and cooling, trendy and neutral, ideal for pairing with accent colours. Use throughout the home. Beige and neutrals: Effortless style, simple elegance, use to showcase original features, works well with textured accents. Blue: Calm, peace, stability, stimulates mental activity. Combine with warm earth-tones. Ideal in any room. Green: Refreshing, relaxing, creates harmony. Various shades work well together and excel in natural light.

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EUROPE GRANITE Specialists suppliers of marble, granite, ceramic and quartz materials Decorative marble, kitchens and worktops, creative bathrooms

www.sarleuropegranite.com

Providing expertise, advice and a tailor-made service in Gironde, Dordogne, Lot et Garonne. Please contact us for a free quotation: Tel: 06 48 97 09 36

Email: europegranite@gmail.com

PROPERTY

LOOKING TO BUY IN SW FRANCE?

YOU’RE NOT ALONE...

Joanna Leggett, Director of Marketing at Leggett International Real Estate provides an insight into the current French property market.

Joanna Leggett

Brexit, Covid, the invasion of Ukraine - we live in worrying and turbulent times. It would be normal to think that buying a second home in France, or even moving here full time would be “parked” for the moment. Well, think again. Demand for rural property in SW France has never been higher (yes, we’re a little bit surprised too). 2022 has seen a huge increase in clients looking to work from their second home, from both French and UK buyers. The brief is simple - the properties must be bright and spacious, with plenty of outside space, excellent

broadband and a home office with a view. This last point is an important one, many UK buyers are now coming across to their holiday homes for extended periods, not just a fortnight’s holiday. They want to be able to WFHH (work from holiday home), with a beautiful view outside their window, whilst enjoying fast WIFI connection and a pleasant office environment. Our sales of country property rose by 40% last year on the back of this trend. It’s not just French or British buyers that are looking for this type of property though, we sold to buyers from 36 different countries, many looking for properties they can use to work from (second) home.

LOCATION IS KEY Buyers are still using location, location, location, to start their search. Properties close to a small regional airport are in high demand while the French are looking

at properties within easy commuting distance of cities like Bordeaux and Toulouse. One of the main drivers behind this is that city properties have seen dramatic price rises over the last few years, whilst country prices have lagged far behind. The gap between the two is wide and many view rural property as being a sound investment the boot is on the other foot for sure. Whether this preference for country over city is a long-term trend or a short “blip”, due to Covid, only time will tell.

SELLING? If you are looking to sell your property in SW France then, in our experience, there has never been a better time. “Well you would say that” is a legitimate response but there is a nationwide shortage of stock now, with very few new mandates coming onto the market. There were 1.2M properties sold in France last

year and we, as agents, need to replenish this. Don’t just take our word for it though go and look in any high street estate agents window and you will notice the difference. If you are thinking of selling your property this year then please do make sure that you market it through an agency that can offer local, national and international coverage. In March some of our agents were at A Place in the Sun Live in Manchester. The show was really busy, with potential buyers queuing to come onto our stand at peak times. It was interesting to note that the bulk were looking to move here full time, rather than looking for holiday homes. This came as quite a surprise (as there had been such a mad rush pre-Brexit) but perhaps it goes to prove that things like quality of life, climate and culture, will always trump political and economic influences. www.leggettfrance.com

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REGIONAL PROPERTY

Selling?

We need to talk! We have registered buyers waiting for the right property. Is it yours? Call us : 05 56 71 36 59 Email: marketing@beauxvillages.com SOLD

SOLD

Home or Hotel? Dating from 1751 and set in almost 15 acres of land, this superb château is just 55 minutes from Bordeaux. Carefully renovated to retain the original features, this 5-bed stunner has a walled garden with fruit trees, a lake plus outbuildings, 11 stables, a fabulous art gallery and an orangery. If you need more space or fancy opening a hotel, there is another 1100m² ready for development and connection to the existing geothermal heating and solar panels. Ref 10028-EY, EUR 850,000 www.agence-eleonor.com

Beaux Villages IMMOBILIER

WINNER OF BEST ESTATE AGENCY FRANCE

International Associate of Savills

2021-2022

Grace & Charm In the heart of the Dordogne’s renowned golden triangle, this proud historic stone residence has a relaxed grace and charm. With a master’s house, guesthouse, swimming pool, garage, chateau views and mature grounds, it is hard not to linger on the terrace once frequented by Josephine Baker and Brigitte Bardot and not pinch yourself. Ref 117325TPK24, EUR 575,000 www.frenchestateagents.com

We are an independent, bilingual agency with agents in the Gers, Hautes Pyrénées, Haute Garonne & Ariège. Coming soon to the Dordogne & Landes. Contact sarah@maisonsetmanoirs.com

Agence Immobilière Internationale N° 21 rue du Général de Gaulle 32140 Masseube, France www.maisonsetmanoirs.com 00 33 (0) 6 08 89 12 79

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

REGIONAL PROPERTY

Architect Designed Contemporary and spacious, this 4-bed house sits in 26h of land and includes 10 stables in its numerous outbuildings. Ideal for B&B, agricultural or equestrian activities, it is L-shaped in design and features a tower with master suite under the exposed wooden roof structure, as well as a wide terrace running the entire length of the house. Entertaining is easy with a vast living space of over 100m2 and an open plan kitchen. Ref VM2946, EUR 676,000 www.maisonsetmanoirs.com

For the love of stone The old, original stonework is everywhere in this 3-bed family home set in large grounds with woodland, pool and ponds near Piégut-Pluviers in Dordogne. Beamed ceilings, an old fireplace with bread oven, a U-shaped mezzanine above the country kitchen and a gated courtyard add to the country feel. Ref BVI60971, EUR 375,000 www.beauxvillages.com

W E A R E R E C RU I T I N G !

Start a new career as a property sales agent I love having the flexibility to balance work around my family! Tania Simpson LEGGETT AGENT READ TANIA’S STORY

If you would like the freedom to grow a successful business supported by an award winning team, please contact our recruitment department:

+33 (0)5 53 60 82 77 recruitment@leggett.fr www.leggettfrance.com

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FINANCE

Fabien

Assurance about Insurance

If you are thinking of moving to France, are a second home owner or already live here, insurance can be a complex subject. We asked Fabien Pelissier of Fab French Insurance, an English-speaking insurance broker, to shine a light on some of the less obvious aspects.

WHAT IS A PHI AND HOW DOES IT DIFFER TO A MUTUELLE TOP-UP INSURANCE?

Private Health Insurance is like travel insurance except that travel insurance is limited to emergency cover. PHI can cover routine medicine, tests and treatments and, sometimes, existing conditions. A PHI will be required for a residency application and/or a visa. It is somewhat identical to the combined cover provided by both the French social security and a Mutuelle but, for the top-up health insurance, you have to have a French social security number. Another massive difference is that, here in France, the Mutuelle health insurance does not require a medical questionnaire, which means no possible exclusions.

WHAT IS COVERED IN HOME INSURANCE?

In France we don’t really separate the building and its contents so every policy will cover both. Valuables are also distinct from the general

content as they are always covered “new for old” but you can choose a discounted value on your general content. Outbuildings can be covered but their content is often limited (it depends on the insurance company but €800 per claim is a ballpark maximum most of the time).

reason it’s usually best to opt for the assistance offered by your insurance company, avoiding unpleasant surprises and, most importantly, eliminating the cover gap at the end of the free “one year” from the dealership.

CAR INSURANCE – ARE THERE ANY SURPRISES?

Some French insurers will cover foreign registered vehicles whilst waiting for them to be officially imported under French plates. The second part of that sentence is of paramount importance as importation is not optional and failure to actually import the vehicle may result in severe penalties. The alternative is costly French temporary insurance which is often €250 per month if not more.

In France we insure the vehicle, not the person. This means that any driver would be covered, as opposed to just the named driver. The only downside in case of a claim would be an increased excess (usually +€150). Another nice point is that most French insurers don’t differentiate between the kinds of assistance so, whether you need help for a breakdown or following an accident, you’ll be covered in the same way. The main exceptions are dealerships which tend to provide assistance for free for the first year following a new purchase, but it’s often limited to roadside assistance not breakdown cover. For this

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

WHAT ABOUT FOREIGN REGISTERED VEHICLES?

THE SMALL PRINT - WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK OUT FOR It’s not really the small print, it’s more like some big cultural differences! For example, you cannot cancel a policy at the renewal date as easily as you can in the UK or the US

and you should cancel at least a couple of months prior to the renewal date. That might seem like bad news but, once a policy is more than one year old, you can change it pretty much whenever you want within 31 days (the new insurer arranges that, not the client), and any premium already paid in excess will be refunded without penalty.

WHY CHOOSE A BROKER? Brokers are neutral and work with multiple insurance companies to achieve the best possible deal/plan and cover for your needs. Also, you won’t be dealing with a call centre/hotline and will be able to email or speak with someone pretty much whenever you want. The broker is your “ally” and is there to offer unbiased advice and, critically, is not incentivised by the insurance company to keep the claimto-premium ratio as low as possible.

www.fabfrenchinsurance.com

SPORT

Adding a third element Regardless of age, not everyone finds it easy or comfortable to jog, run, walk or ride a bike on land. We might be prone to trips, have arthritic joints, or feet and limbs that are sensitive to bumps and uneven ground. The good news is that as we open our pools, these sports can take on a whole new element; in water.

WATER IS GOOD FOR YOU Not only is it fun but enjoying sports in water can be a gentler way to improve strength, flexibility and stamina, regardless of your fitness level. Those with ailments such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, joint injuries or balance issues can also seriously benefit from the advantages that water sport can bring. It’s great during pregnancy too! Water offers around 12 times more resistance than air and four times more water resistance than swimming, giving muscles a greater workout and burning

more calories more quickly than on land. At the same time, because of its buoyancy, water offers extra support to muscles and joints, making it easier to maintain balance and enabling you to walk, cycle or run with less impact on body parts.

WATER SPORT FOR ALL Adding wrist or ankle weights can increase resistance against the water, as can foam dumbbells or hand paddles and webbed gloves. If you are not a strong swimmer you may want to use a floatation device or buoyancy belt.

Splashing out a bit, you could invest in a “swimming against the tide” system or counter current jets, a stationary bicycle or even an underwater treadmill.

TAKE A WALK With or without one of these aids, walking in water is great for the whole body, and can improve balance and prevent falls. To walk effectively we were advised to stand tall and, although the buoyancy may make it feel more natural to walk on tiptoes, place the heel down first, then the toes, swinging the arms naturally as each step is taken.

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SPORT

Start with 3 to 5 minutes then build up the duration and speed and don’t forget to walk backwards and sideways too.

JOG OR RUN? Aqua-jogging is intended for shallow water where you can run along the bottom of the pool. Deep water running is ideal for those who have an injury or leg or hip issue and, exactly as it sounds, takes place in deep water using a floatation device to ensure that you don’t touch the bottom. Whether reserved purely for the pool or incorporated as part of a road-running training programme, aqua-jogging or running improves cardiovascular output and can help with posture whilst minimising the effects of “hitting the pavement”. Low impact, they reduce weight-bearing injuries and literally takes the load off the body, making it less strenuous on the knees and hips. In terms of style, we were advised to try to mimic our normal running technique with head lifted up, chin pulled in, shoulder blades together and down, with arms bent at 90°, gradually opening up our stride. Feet should be relaxed with knees slightly bent. Running on the spot can be easier with a running belt, especially when practicing the “leanforward” posture that is often adopted when running against the wind. A gentle jog and knee lift would be an ideal warm-up for the first five or 10 minutes, either in or out of the pool. Then the recommendation was to start with two or three higher intensity sprints down the length of the pool, jogging back at half the speed. To take it up a notch we should then jog at high intensity for 10 repetitions for two minutes, and two minutes at a lower intensity. To cool down, spend five minutes jogging gently and stretching.

AQUA-CYCLING Believed to stem from Italy where it was invented by a physical therapist treating injured athletes, low-impact aquacycling is gaining popularity across the globe. Aimed at improving fitness levels and muscle density, it is also ideal for strengthening backs, hips and knees as well as the core. With a massaging effect from the water it can even help

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

to improve lymphatic drainage! With a pair of toe-protecting rubber shoes and a specially-designed bike frame at the bottom of the pool, the cyclist sits on the saddle and pedals, holding the handlebars which should be just above the water. Eliminating many of the strains and aches associated with cycling on hard surfaces, the water cocoons the lower body, reducing impact and enabling a fluid motion. The faster you pedal, the more resistance you create. You can choose your own pace and even change position to work different muscle sets, especially if you branch into Aqua Spin which combines pedalling with arm and upper body exercise. Be warned though, aqua-cycling may feel easy at the time but you will notice muscles you didn’t know you had the next day, so take it steady – we speak from experience!

BE SAFE The “how to’s” above are suggestions only. We recommend that you look online for qualified training instructions. Water sports are thirsty work so be sure to drink plenty of liquids before and after. Stop and rest if you feel dizzy or lightheaded, have trouble breathing, feel faint or weak, are nauseous, or have pain or pressure in your upper body. Finally, as with any form of sport or exercise, it’s always wise to check with your doctor before starting a new regime.

Find out more at: Water Walking: bit.ly/3JXfb7W Jogging in Water: bit.ly/3Lnv7AE Aqua-Cycling: bit.ly/3wNErd4 Aqua Spin: bit.ly/36Y3PSE Or, simply have fun with Noodles: bit.ly/3tNqo5l

WELL BEING

Unable to focus? Brain fog? Christine Haworth-Staines, a UK Chartered Psychologist and French Registered Psychologue, explains brain overload. WHAT CAN WE DO?

Life throws all kinds of things at us. It might be worries about finance, worries about family, concerns about the home or work, our own health or the direction that our life is going in. A combination of these can lead to brain overload and an inability to prioritise or even make decisions at all. Our brains have a limited amount of processing capacity. Like a computer we can only manipulate a certain amount of information at any one time. When we take on too much and there aren’t enough hours in the day our brains detect we are under threat. We may worry about not getting something done, missing a deadline, or forgetting something important. Any threat will be processed by the brain as danger and trigger the protective response of fight/ flight or freeze. If we are being chased by a rabid dog this may be appropriate but if we are worrying about not completing our tax return on time then ‘hitting out’, running away, or doing nothing are clearly not helpful.

When we experience mental overload which results in brain fog or feeling unable to focus, firstly recognise that this is a normal protective mechanism but one that is maladaptive in the circumstances. To escape this situation there are a few things you can do. Firstly, stop, breathe slowly and relax your muscles, this will switch off the adrenaline response. You can achieve this by inhaling through your nose slowly and deeply, expanding your stomach and then breathe out through your mouth, pursing your lips and blowing gently. Now bring your shoulders up to your ears, hold for a few seconds then let them drop and just notice the tension easing away. Secondly, write a list of the things that need to be done. Review the list and cross out anything that is really not essential. Determine what can wait until next week and what can be dropped completely. You may also consider delegating some tasks. The garden needs weeding, it can wait, or give the children some spending money to do it. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Now prioritise. If, for example, there are deadlines looming, or there is a health issue to be addressed, this needs to be factored in. So, number the items on your list in order of priority. Next, if there is anything that can be done immediately like booking the car

in for a service or paying a bill, just do it and tick it off the list (very satisfying). Then schedule time for the other tasks. If you don’t keep a diary, then I recommend you start either an online or paper version - if they are written down you will be more likely to achieve them.

FEELING STRESSED? Perhaps you are worrying about things that you have no control over or things that can’t be tackled right now. I call this obsessional worry, worry without a purpose. If so, try to see your worrying as problem solving. If the problem can’t be solved right now you add it to the list and schedule a time in the diary, then stop attending to it. If the problem is out of your control, stop attending to it. Worrying without action serves no purpose and going around in circles is time-consuming and anxiety-provoking. This last behaviour might be a more deep-seated problem that may require professional help. Mental overload is sometimes a sign of an anxiety disorder or a perfectionist personality. If you continually over-think or over-research, without making a decision, you may find that talking to a trained therapist is helpful. www.counsellorandpsychologist.com www.gettalkingpodcast.com

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WELL BEING

Don’t let a phobia rule your life… Phobias can be resolved in as little as an hour! How long have you lived with yours?

Irena-Marie Makowska explains that around 15-20% of us experience specific phobias at least once in our life. These phobias typically emerge during childhood or adolescence and continue into adulthood. They also impact twice as many women as they do men.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FEAR AND A PHOBIA

A phobia is activated in the reptilian part of our brain, the oldest part where there is no value judgement, and our brain simply follows pre-setup neural pathways. It triggers the fight, flight or freeze subconscious reaction. There is no rationality when we have a phobic reaction. Our brain believes we are in danger and is in full alert mode. We can feel nauseous, dizzy and breathless, our heart rate increases and, sometimes, we can go into a fullblown panic attack.

PHOBIA TYPES There are three different categories of phobias: social phobias, agoraphobia, and specific phobias – such as fear of snakes, spiders or needles etc. The most common phobias are: Arachnophobia - fear of spiders and other arachnids Ophidiophobia - fear of snakes Acrophobia - fear of heights Aerophobia – fear of flying Cynophobia - fear of dogs Astraphobia - fear of thunder and lightning Trypanophobia - fear of injections

Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) – being in a social situation that creates intense discomfort Agoraphobia - fear of being alone, in a situation or place where escape may be difficult Mysophobia – fear of germs and dirt

OVERCOMING PHOBIAS How can we resolve a phobia? There are a number of different therapies or techniques such as BWRT® (BrainWorking Recursive Therapy), cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy. Here are a couple of examples. Vicky J had a debilitating phobia of needles and blood. She decided on the BWRT route. She had no idea where her phobia originated and with BWRT you do not need to find the original event, only how you want to feel instead. Vicky and her partner wanted to start planning for a baby but that was impossible until she resolved her phobia. She attempted a couple of times but fear overtook and then, finally, after 20 minutes it was resolved. A year later their beautiful baby boy was born. Pam B, a very rational and practical person, lives in the countryside and with that came spiders, loads of them. She was terrified of them and if one was in the house, she would remain outside, even at night, until a friend came round and removed the spider! Pam also used BWRT and after her session went and bought a spider catcher! A totally inconceivable idea before. Four years later she is still phobia free.

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

One of the most amazing tools we have is that our brain does not know the difference between past, present and future. So, we can create a future memory of how we would like to feel instead, thus creating a new template of beliefs, behaviours and habits. Another way of explaining it is like ‘updating our out-of-date software’. It really is as simple as that!

Irena-Marie Makowska is a Mind Coach & Workshop Designer/Facilitator specialising in mental health, well-being, emotional intelligence and resilience, neuroplasticity and accelerated performance. She uses a combination of BWRT®, clinical hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, mindfulness and transformational coaching. www.irena-marie-mindcoach.com

ASK

ADVICE

KATIE! Katie Gardner is a fully-qualified CBT Counsellor and 11-year expat based on the border of 47/24. She’s here to answer your questions. www.kgcounselling.com

Angela G writes: I’ve always had just a small group of friends and that has never really bothered me but, since coming to France some five years ago, I find the friends that I have made over here don’t give me the same sort of comfort. A couple of situations recently have made me question whether I’d be

better off without them. Or perhaps it’s just me? How do I assess? Hello Angela A common problem here, believe it or not. The friends we have had for many years back in our home country know our history; what makes us laugh; our sensitivities. The newer friends we make over here are starting from scratch.

LEGAL ADVICE Sarah Bright Thomas is an Avocat Associé and Partner at Bright Avocats. www.brightavocats.com

Jessica T writes: My builder has fallen off a ladder and has now said that he cannot complete

Accidents at work happen

the project for another nine months. He has already received 90% of the cost of the job. I am sorry

You should be comfortable with a friend

You mention in your letter (précis above) that you retired here so these new friends also only see you for who you are now, not in relation to what you’ve achieved in your life (family/work/academic), making it more difficult to really connect. Ask yourself a few questions: Do I look forward to seeing this person? Do I come away feeling better or worse for being in their company? Do I feel judged by them or having to impress them? Do you know how they speak to

that he has had an accident but I can’t wait that long as it is part of a residential renovation for my elderly parents. What can I do? Hi Jessica: First of all I am sorry this is happening to you, it can be quite tricky to navigate these kinds of situations. Legally, the builder’s accident is considered to be a “cas de force majeur”. That is to say, an unpredictable and unavoidable occurrence outside anyone’s fault. In practice, this means that the builder cannot be blamed for the delays to your renovations and, as such, there is nothing you can do legally to rectify the situation.

others about you or, indeed, whether you hear them speak negatively about others in their absence? It’s all about establishing boundaries and having a healthy, supportive friend or friends. Is it your own insecurities that have brought you to this questioning or is it really that you are not entirely comfortable in their presence? Time to evaluate. Life concern questions can be sent to Katie c/o buzzing@thelocalbuzzmag.com

In fact, legally you would need to prove fault by the builder to be able to break the contract, recover your funds and have another builder complete the work. However, the “force majeur” exonerates the builder from any fault. Even if there was something you could do legally, justice system delays would mean that the builder would have recovered from his injuries and be back on site before any legal case was over. My advice, therefore, is not legal but practical. Talk to your builder, explain the predicament you are in because of your elderly parents and see if he would allow and accept that a colleague finishes the renovation for him.

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FINANCE

PREMIUM BONDS are they a winning formula in France?

Andrea Glover

Andrea Glover, International Financial Adviser at The Spectrum IFA Group, meets many clients who are originally from the UK and hold Premium Bonds. Here she talks through the tax and practical consequences of holding them as a French tax resident, and looks at a more suitable alternative.

Premium Bonds are a popular way to save money in the UK. Rather than offering a guaranteed interest rate, you could win tax free prizes between £25 and £1M every month. According to the NS&I website, there have been over 400 winners receiving the million-pound prize since 1994 and the average prize fund rate is 1% per annum. So, for the vast majority, the average prize rate is not keeping up with normal inflation rates. Since BREXIT, it is important that NS&I customers living in the EU hold a UK bank account. Not having a UK bank account could invalidate the terms of your NS&I customer agreement and you may have no alternative but to close your account. Even if your terms are not invalidated, without a UK account NS&I would need to send you a warrant (like a cheque) which could be challenging to deposit into

a non-UK account. In France, Premium Bond winnings are not tax free they have to be declared in your yearly tax return and are subject to tax in the same way as UK bank interest. On death, France will apply the relevant inheritance taxes to your worldwide estate, which would include Premium Bonds held in the UK. There is a double tax treaty between France and the UK for inheritance tax, which means that credit is given in France for any tax paid in the UK. So, you do not pay tax twice, but you do pay whichever is the higher amount.

ARE THERE ALTERNATIVES?

Given the above, you may conclude that Premium Bonds are no longer an appropriate investment as a French tax resident. So, what are the alternatives?

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

In my experience, an Assurance Vie (AV) is one of the most suitable options to consider as a home for your Premium Bond savings. An AV is an insurance-based investment product and has the following advantages:

TAX BENEFITS The investments that you place within your AV are never touched by French income tax or capital gains tax whilst they stay inside the AV, unlike Premium Bond winnings. l If you keep the AV going for at least eight years, you then qualify for a special income tax-free band, on any withdrawals. l On death, you can leave each individual beneficiary up to €152,500 completely free of French inheritance tax, if you invest before the age of 70. This is of great advantage to blended families, as l

beneficiaries do not have to be directly related. l If you invest after the age of 70, you can leave a combined total of €30,500 inheritance tax free to all beneficiaries. l International AVs are available which allow you to invest in sterling. Therefore, your Premium Bond proceeds do not have to be exchanged into euros, unlike a French based AV. In conclusion, if you hold Premium Bonds, speak to a regulated Financial Adviser to seek advice as to whether they remain suitable for you as a French tax resident.

www.spectrum-ifa.com/ financial-advisor-france/ andrea-glover The article above is provided for information purposes only. It does not constitute advice or a recommendation from The Spectrum IFA Group.

PUZZLES

Crossword

Weddings are always a cause for celebration so why not celebrate your knowledge of French with this wedding-themed crossword? The clues are in English but the answers are in French. Enjoy!

ACROSS 1. The honeymoon 5. A wedding invitation 8. The town hall 10. The wedding rings 14. A veil 15. The witness 16. A Jordan almond

17. A kiss

DOWN 1. The wedding cake 2. The gown 3. The bride 4. The groom

6. Congratulations 7. The garter 8. The guests 9. The wedding 10. The church 11. The speech 12. To marry 13. The vows

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

Wordsearch Take a break in the sun and enjoy this fun wordsearch. Some of the words are in the articles, some are things we come across in life. You will find them running from side to side, top to bottom, bottom to top and, just for fun, diagonally.

TRYPANOPHOBIA

IMPORT

CRUSHED

CUTLERY

SEAVIEWS

SPIDERS

VIEWS

OUTBUILDING

BROOM

CONTENT

WEDDINGS

MATT

GLASS

WIND

STRESSED

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Crossword

solution

Here is the solution to the crossword on page 60.

The Local Buzz • May - June 2022

JUST DRONING

ok at...

A tongue-in-cheek lo

Life in rural SW France

by the editor O

ne for sorrow, two for joy! Well, that didn’t ring true last week. After three hours searching for car keys, and blaming one of the dogs for taking them into the garden and not bringing them back, I gave up. Later that evening my daughter called to say she had seen my keys on a social media site and that they had been found outside a property 700m away! It was either the Easter bunny having a laugh or the two magpies that had been in the garden earlier that day. Only in France! Mind you, I am surprised they could see them. Stupidly,

I exchanged my (I thought unlucky) tractor for one that might not try to kill me, I kid you not. Now it takes three times as long to mow a smaller area of grass but at least my family have lessened the restrictions on the mowing kit. By that I mean the stuff I have to carry with me in case I have yet another tractor accident (at least two ditch “whoopsies” and one episode where I was trapped under it and had to chew my cardigan off)! Having recently moved house, my new garden is flat with no ditches or hidden bumps, apart from the mounds of

mole hills and, in a grassy ruin, a very large snake that doesn’t seem at all bothered by my shiny red mower. It’s a bit like the daisies, pops its head back up as soon as I’ve gone past! Yes, I am now the proud owner of a ruin but, having carried out three renovations in France already, I have to say that I have never experienced such difficulties in finding a builder! Alongside horrendous price hikes for materials, they are all booked up for around a year thanks to the rush to buy in France pre-Brexit and, perhaps surprisingly, Covid. It seems

that city dwellers have been seeking a less populated life in the countryside and have bought up almost everything in sight. They should beware though. I ventured out for the first time in two years without a mask and, two days later, the signs were there and the test was positive! The good news is that work on the offices, in the ruin, has started and it won’t be long before I can quit my kitchen workspace (at least it’s near the kettle). The mason had best evict that snake first though! Until next time …

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AP_GOURMET_DE_FRANCE_210X270_FU.indd 1

28/04/2016 16:01

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST chalet villa château farmhouse apartment vineyard gîte cottage coast country city

EXCLUSIVE

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Reduced! Dordogne

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€169,000 Dordogne

€199,800

Ref: A06812 - Lovely 4 bedroom house with pool, in a quiet area with view of the countryside and close to amenities.

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8% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: E Climate class: E

9% agency fees included paid by the buyer. DPE: Not required

Agency fees paid by seller.

9% agency fees included paid by the buyer. Energy class: E Climate class: B

Energy class: E Climate class: D

EXCLUSIVE

Good Investment

Great Buy Lot-et-Garonne

€30,000 Gironde

€300,000 Lot

€374,000 Lot-et-Garonne

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Ref: A12909 - One bedroom apartment in the centre of a busy village.

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Ref: A12929 - Studio apartment 45m², in a shared building, good town centre location.

Agency fees paid by seller.

6% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

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DPE: No data

Energy class: E Climate class: E

DPE: No data

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Château Chic Lot-et-Garonne

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EXCLUSIVE

Sitting Pretty

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Ref: A09810 - 3 Bedroom cosy house with above ground pool, near Libourne.

5% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

Agency fees paid by seller.

7% agency fees included paid by the buyer.

DPE: No data

Energy class: D Climate class: C

DPE: Ongoing

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The Local Buzz May - June 2022

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Just Droning

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Sport in Water

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Brain Fog

Outdoor

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The Great Baguette

Guest Chef

Weddings Special

Food & Drink

French Insurance

Gardening with Herbs