I've given France and the French people a bit of stick in the past but having spent two wonderful weeks in their company it's time for a new view on both country and people. I've travelled there a number of times, be it on a motorbike or to watch rock concerts but all of the time to party, wander around not really taking in the culture and people. Well this time I could and I have to report I have been wrong...oh so wrong.
The fact that I now class France as the most enjoyable place I have ever been is due mostly to the wonderful people of the Small village La Calliere, an hours drive in-land from La Rochelle and it's village folk and in particular my neighbour for just over two weeks...Gaston Coupois.
Gaston...87 year old, 6' 4" ex-French policeman, distiller of the most lethal schnapps, the best sherry known to man or woman.
My friend who's house we borrowed said I'd know when we've been accepted as he would take us not his cellar to see his wines and spirits...and we would come out only when we had sampled everything. So at the end of day one while in his cellar and feeling decidedly worse for wear after sipping away at 60% plus proof peach, pear and plum schnapps I couldn't help notice a few other items lying around the cellar. A Bazooka anti tank missile from WW2...WITH MISSILE!!! An American carbine rifle...LOADED and loads of live ammunition. When I drunkenly pointed a wobbley finger at them, Gaston just shrugged his shoulders....Tank busting missiles and super strong alcohol...the mind was a bit confused as to why this gorgeous little village was still standing.
After having a nap it was time to try and get my bearings. La Calliere...the word 'sleepy' doesn't really come close. One 'Bar Tabac', one butchers, one bakers, one restaurant come bar...that's it! It became clear very early on that the social aspect of a village like this goes on in the house and so it proved. Either while sitting in the garden taking in rays, or fast asleep in doors at night it you would get a pat on the arm, open your eyes and a completely strange but friendly face would be smiling and talking way at you in French with something for you in their arms, fruit, a pie, bread anything. "Don't lock you door until you go to bed" my friend said before he left us "people like access to to everyone here" He wasn't wrong.
More soon, so much to say.
WHERE are the pictures?
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