Report from France!

More adventures from our President Terri Jo in France!

December, 8 2011

I left Cannes this morning at 10AM by train and rode past vineyards in Dijon and Avignon through the French countryside into Paris!

I had one last evening on the French Riviera last night and had dinner at a wonderful restaurant with new friends met at ILTM conference.  We walked up a winding cobblestone street to Auberge Provencale.  We were served unnbelievable lobster ravioli and bruscheta with fresh tomato, artichoke and parmesan - and of course more champagne!

I finished off the evening at a local wine bar - yes more champagne! - visiting with the locals standing on the street sharing stories about Canada, rodeos and yachting!  I discovered a curious custom; when you are served champagne at the local bars they provide you with a small platter of 'penny candy' - sweet and sour gummy bears, sugary candy and gumdrops to melt in your mouth as you sip bubbly!  Really very delightful!

The train trip from Cannes was uneventful and it was so wonderful to be met by the driver at the end of the platform and terrific that he spoke English and on the drive to the hotel he pointed out the sites, shared the history of Paris and great places to shop and eat. It was so much better than trying to find your own way in the city especially with all the phony "taxi drivers", the crowds and chaos all around the train station.

My hotel - Le Burgundy - is just fabulous. It is very lovely, discreet and in such a great location!  With a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa - a cognac bar and Michelin star restaurant all on site.  Easy walking distance to shops, sites and many lovely bistros.  The rooms are simply beautiful - great furnishings and amenites - a real gem!

I walked the Champs Elysees tonight all the way to the Arc de Triomphe.  It was all lit up with Christmas lights with a terrific Christmas Market lining both sides of the street. The smells of mulled wine, strong cheese, tartiere and sausage filling the air.  Families strolling everywhere - even a mini ice rink with young and old renting skates and trying their best to stay upright - and Christmas caroles playing everywhere.  I had to pinch myself to make sure I was not dreaming! 

Tomorrow I have a guide and a half day walking tour of the city - I look forward to learning and seeing more...