Bonjour and bienvenue
Autumn officially starts in France on 21st September, but the season feels as though it starts earlier. In the first week of September, schools re-open and everyone returns to work after the long summer holidays, a time known as La Rentree (the return). There is a renewed energy in the air as everyone has been revitalised by time off and the summer sun. Autumn is great for a visit to France as the high peak tourist season is over and everywhere is less crowded. The sun still shines but the evenings are starting to get cooler. I love Autumn for the dewy mornings, the colours of the trees and the berries on the bushes and in this issue I share my favourite places to go at this time of the year.
Author Julia Stagg tells us why she loves Ariege, Peter Jones reveals how to lose your friends on holiday in France and Lucy Pitts confesses what worries her about being a gite owner!
We've got wonderful autumnal recipes including a stunning tarte tatin dish from celebrity chef Daniel Galmiche perfect for this time of year. We find out what it was like to stay at iconic book store Shakespeare & Co in Paris in the 1980s, and investigate Chateau Chantilly. As usual Geraldine Lepere will be giving her regular 5 minute French lesson and there's practical advice about life in France and tons more great features and information.
I hope you enjoy this issue, please feel free to share it with your friends!
Best wishes and bisous from France
Janine
Editor
With
Love
From
France