My love of Burgundy goes back to when I was saving up for my travels. I worked for a wine merchant and got seriously into it. And when I get into something, I really go for it. I bought wine books, read wine magazines and voraciously consumed wine blogs and articles online.

And for a while I was just happy reading, talking and drinking wine. But then came the game-changer. Two of them, actually. Firstly, I went backpacking. I went out and experienced the world and all it had to offer. I only passed through France briefly, but just being able to smell the air, touch the earth and sense the vines and grapes of vineyards gives you a totally different perspective. Wine suddenly seemed different. Real. Like it was a living, breathing thing. Something tangible in the physical world. Something you could live and feel.

Secondly, I saw the film Sideways. For the unaware –and you should really get round to watching it – the story sees two middle-aged men going on a journey of wine, women and wisdom through the vineyards of California. It’s a funny, dramatic and touching movie about taking stock and control of your life, but what I loved most of all was the way the film used wine as a metaphor. In particular, the story’s main character, Miles, describes the pinot noir grape as something rewarding but fragile, only thriving in the right environment through care and attention. He is, of course, talking about himself. I think many of us can relate to that idea.

So I was inspired by wine, and even had a particular grape to relate to. Which is weird, but there you go. Now, the best pinot noir grows in places that don’t get too hot or too cold. Places like New Zealand, Chile and, yes, Burgundy. In fact, Burgundy is probably the most iconic pinot noir-growing region on the planet, producing wines that are rich and deeply flavoursome, yet light and delicate.

In the world of wine there’s a special word – terroir – that means that every quality wine exhibits the distinct and unique characteristics of where it’s from. The location, soil, climate, harvesting; they all combine to make the terroir. This is an awesome idea, because aren’t people the same? We’re basically 50% the result of our environment. Again, wine finds itself comparable to the human condition.

I found myself drawn to Burgundy (or Bourgogne, as it’s known in France). I felt the pull of its terroir. I wanted to experience it for myself; spend some time soaking up the cultural nutrients and absorbing the traditional goodness. There’s a great feel to the place, something old-world and appealing and relatively untouched by relentless modern developments.

So that’s my plan – finding somewhere to live in this beautiful part of Europe. I’m using the France Property Shop to get a feel for the area. Sadly, much as I love the idea of living in a 15^th Century Chateaux with 14 hectares of wiggle room, my budget can’t quite stretch to the millions of euros it will cost. No, owning my own wine estate will have to wait.

Instead, I’m looking at a quaint little house in a village in south Burgundy. But I have a romantic, rustic vision of what a house in a village in south Burgundy should look like. In my mind this means wooden shutters and wrought ironwork, somewhere cosy and old-fashioned with twee vintage furnishings. The house I’ve found has all of this, and is at the heart of this picture-postcard village full of crooked streets, ancient trees, painters and cafes where old men sit all morning reading papers and drinking coffee.  I like the vibe of the place.

Right now I’m saving up for my Burgundy adventure and browsing job prospects, as well as polishing up my French and mentally preparing myself to drive on the wrong side of the road. I’m in that place where my plan is not yet reality, but is way more than a pipe dream. It’s a good place to be; a little frustrating, but exciting.

So far, at least, I’d encourage other backpackers to follow their dream of living abroad, as opposed to just travelling through. Why not think about put down roots in your own special piece of terroir?

We all know that a European road trip would be a redundant task without an all-important national sticker emblazoned on the bumper. It’s kind of a given these days. However, consider the lesser known laws and the ignorance of little old me as I sailed down a French highway toward the Italian border, only to be pulled over by the roadside police for a “aléatoire voiture fouiller,” (indiscriminate car search). A national tightening of road traffic laws makes driving in France a bit more of a chore these days and as such, the “aléatoire voiture fouiller,” that I was subjected to was simply a routine practise. As such, they wanted to know if the nonchalant Brit was as clued-up as she appeared.  Alas, how the mighty roadtripper doth fall. After a quick poke around in the boot (thank god they didn’t look in the backseat) they kindly informed me of my ignorant negligence: I didn’t have a warning triangle! I was breaking the law!

Thankfully, they let me off with a caution and told me to purchase a free-standing neon triangle at my earliest convenience (i.e. go and buy a warning sign right this second and don’t let us catch you again young lady). However, had they not been such accommodating police officers (and had I not been such a flustered and foolish young lady) I mightn’t have got let off with just a slapped wrist.

As a result, I spent the next three days of my trip absorbing an AA travel guide that I had barely skimmed beforehand. Sure, I now know my compulsory first aid kits from my winter tire requirements, but I did spend three whole days in the passenger’s seat with my head in a guide book instead of soaking up the ambience around me.  And what is the most important lesson I garnered from this exercise (aside from road safety laws and a firm grasp of French austerity)? To always, and I mean always, prepare before I travel.  I had the ‘I’ve done this a bunch of times,’ attitude and consequently overlooked some seriously common sense factors. I mean, who forgets a warning sign in France? A fool, that’s who.

To coincide with their road safety restrictions, France is introducing some new laws this year that every eager travel junkie needs to be aware of. Thanks to my dedicated studying of the road law bible, I can now impart some important French legislation changes, just in case you find yourself on the continent. They include:

1) Breathalysers – effective 1 July 2012, sanctioned 1 November 2012

As of this month, every vehicle (including motorbikes, excluding mopeds) must carry an unused breathalyser. Not just that, but the breathalyser has to be certified by the French authorities and failure to produce one will incur at one the spot fine of €11. So, if you’re planning on sneaking one large glass of French Pinot Noir before driving home, you’ll have no excuse if caught over the limit (which is 0.5mg per ml in France).

2) Reflective clothes – effective 1 January 2013

Along with a warning sign, French motorists are also required to carry a reflective jacket in their glove compartment. However, this legislation is due to effect motorcyclist in an even bigger way next year when they’ll be required to wear reflective clothing at all times during transit (even in an emergency/breakdown situation) so make sure you’ve got your neon yellows sorted.

For a country by country guide to the regulations of the road, check this out, it’s pretty comprehensive.

By Emily Buchanan

France

The Tignes is a highly developed skiing area during the summer months in France. The drop is about 750 feet and you can ski more than 20 km. There are 16 lifts to pick from. The snow park features bumps, pipes, jumps and rails, which make it super fun. The glacier known as the Grande Motte can be accessed by a funicular railway and cable car. Les Deux Alpes, La Plagne and Val Thorens also offer summer glacier skiing in France.

Austria

Austria is famous for summer skiing. The cable car links and overall accessibility has improved immensely over the years, making the tourist flow increase substantially. Additional lifts also let people access glaciers more easily. One of the steepest glaciers in the whole of Europe, known as Hintertux is located in Austria at the top of the Zillertal.

The Kaprun Glacier is located in Salzburg. People enjoy skiing in the morning and swimming in the late during the afternoon. The view provided by this glacier is worth the effort. There are plenty of activities for children like slides, igloos and a snow beach in the Ice Arena.

In the center of the region called Karinthia resides the Molltaller Glacier, where people flock to ski in the summer. The Tirol has a lot to offer in terms of skiing and is easily accessible through modern railway and cable car. This destination is extremely popular because it located close to lakeside resorts.

Italy

Italy has a few skiing destinations, especially those located on the border of France. The eastern Italian Alps witnesses skiing areas like Bormio, Santa Catarina and Madesimo.  The Dolomites is also a popular region for skiing in Italy.

Val Senales is another popular destination in Italy and is one of the biggest year-round skiing facilities in the whole of Europe. During the summer there are six lifts and guaranteed snow. Summer courses are available as well.

Switzerland

The summer skiing regions in Switzerland are quite famous internationally. The Zermatt region offers some great skiing environment and the sport is characterized by cruising. About eight lifts can help get you to your spot. The Klein Matterhorn cable car will take you up 3,820m. The lifts start operating at 7 a.m. The mornings are pretty icy and the day witnesses spring snow. People are even allowed to ski over the border from Italy.

Grindelwald is ideal for skiing enthusiasts on a budget. It is great for some summer skiing and has much more to offer. The scenery is beautiful in the lower hills and great for nature lovers. Davos is one of the most beautiful spots for skiing in Switzerland. Although this region might be a little expensive the quality of skiing is entirely worth it.

Andy Butler is an expert associated with Burger Davis SIR. The company provides top end luxury villas for rent and for sale in France.

Courtesy of Arnaud Bachelard

A journey to France was not complete until I visited the awe-inspiring and gigantic Mont Blanc and experienced Chamonix holidays.  I was not disappointed, with lungs full of alpine air I took in a vista of spring-time flowers and soft sunlight.  Faraway I gazed at the lilac horizon of crooked peaks. Majestic snow-capped mountains made this region everything that I ever imagined it to be, and more!

Chamonix is a hikers’ paradise with plentiful winding trails throughout the mountain ranges. Hiking is a wonderful, healthy and affordable option for backpackers and I could easily find a trail for my fitness and ability level. There are hiking trails in the Chamonix valley that require more fitness than others. When in doubt, it’s recommended to get some local advice before embarking upon trails.  It’s also important to use the right equipment and safety precautions with sudden, volatile weather changes. An ideal difficult trail for those who are really keen might be the Tour du Mont Blanc – a route taking in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps over 112 miles. For ambitious hikers with suitable gear, I also recommend taking the trail up the Aiguillette des Houches to the summit where you can see some of the best preserved alpine chalets in the valley, as well as taking advantage of panoramic views.

Being France, the food is always excellent quality. Although, the restaurants and eateries in the region are made more for the apres-ski crowd and not budget backpackers. I didn’t let this bother me and visited the supermarket where I bought a fresh baguette, some regional Gruyère cheese and had a wonderful, affordable post-hike feast.

For more flush backpackers, many restaurants specialise in melted cheesy goodness in the form of Fondue, where you can dip meats and veg into a large communal pot of steaming cheese.  It’s possible to try the ‘pierre chaude’ and cook your own slices of meat on your own personal hot slate at the table. Both novel and communal ways to pass the time eating at a leisurely pace – as the French love to do.

 Finally, I allowed myself a luxury purchase that originates from this alpine mountain region:    the classic Swiss Army knife.  It has proven to be enormously practical, beautiful and elegant device with countless uses for myself as a backpacker.  The classic model includes things like a bottle opener, scissors and pen knife. Models nowadays can feature things like an LED light and ballpoint pen.

Alison has been a travel fanatic since childhood and her neverending wanderlust has taken her all around the world. She recently began writing about her experiences to inspire others to feel as passionately about travel as she does. Her favourite destination is New York City, which she has visited six times.

France has five National Parks in the Southwest region of the country and numerous Regional Parks in scenic areas like Lorraine, Millevaches en Limousin, Grandes Causses and the French Riviera beaches. The parks accept reservations throughout the year but they are highly recommended if you plan to camp during the months of July and August because campsites fill to capacity during the busy season.

Approximately 1500 of the campsites in France are rated as one star, meaning they are typically quite primitive and located off-the-beaten path with only cold water for washing and cooking. The two star campgrounds are the most numerous with 4,000 sites available that have individual shower cubicles with hot water and power stations for small appliances. The 2,000 three star campsites have bi-lingual wardens who manage the property and offer private washing cabins, playgrounds, food stores and even safety deposit boxes for valuables. The most exclusive are the four star rated accommodations with only 700 campsites located in large park-like campgrounds that cater to caravans, long-term campers and special events. These facilities include all the above amenities along with paved parking areas, sinks with hot water for washing clothes and dishes and common rooms with games and entertainment.

Another popular venue for vacationers ready to get back to nature is known as “farm camping” where private land owners set aside sections of their property exclusively for campers. Usually these sites are quite well equipped with electric power, hot water basins and private toilets. Visitors can make reservations to pitch tents, park caravans or rent rustic cabins on these farms just like in the public parks, but usually for a slightly higher charge.

Some vineyards have banded together in a promotional campaign known as “”France Passion” where they invite caravan travellers to stay up to 24 hours on their property free of charge. These landowners invite their camping guests to sample homemade products that can range from fresh bread to local honey to specialty spirits. Some even offer activities like hot air balloon rides, fishing excursions, organic gardening lessons or guided wilderness hikes.

This article was written by Sarah Clarke. She is a blogger for Thomson Al Fresco who enjoys sharing her ideas and experiences.

Chamonix is one of those ski resorts that can accommodate different types of travelers. You’ll find your regular skiers who visit Chamonix to hit the slopes, have a few beers in the evening and relax at a b&b. Others rather enjoy their stay at a luxurious hotel and spend their time in thermal baths. And another small portion of them are camping on the mountain because they are on some winter expedition. Chamonix has lots to offer, it all depends on what you’re looking for! The number of activities are countless (or almost!).

Now, you’re probably wondering how to get there. If you’re flying, the most accessible airport is Geneva. From there, you can hop in a taxi, bus or collective van. Regardless of where you are coming from, you’ll be able to easily hop on a train or bus to get to Chamonix since it’s very well-developed resort. This being said, avoid the high season. It will cost more and it’s crowded. If you’re going to ski t one of the most beautiful places in the world, might as well do it right!

]]> http://offtrackbackpacking.net/2011/11/14/spending-a-day-skiing-in-chamonix-france/feed/ 0 http://offtrackbackpacking.net/2011/11/10/four-tips-for-a-cheap-family-holiday-in-france/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=four-tips-for-a-cheap-family-holiday-in-france http://offtrackbackpacking.net/2011/11/10/four-tips-for-a-cheap-family-holiday-in-france/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:52:27 +0000 Nara http://offtrackbackpacking.net/?p=5387 France is a great destination for a family holiday. You can enjoy family bike rides through the stunning French countryside, take in a bit of culture, maybe head to the beach for some surfing, and of course sit down together for some delicious French cuisine. Activities and excursions are the cornerstone of family holidays, so it can sometimes be tricky to keeping the cost down. Here are four tips for a cheap family holiday in France.

Go Dover to Calais

Driving down to the ferry port and onto the ferry immediately conjures images of the perfect family holiday; and for those looking to save a little money it really can be perfect. The most popular and cheapest way to get across the channel remains the Dover to Calais ferry, and can take as little as 90 minutes of travelling time before you’re touching down on French soil.

Head away from the crowds

Family holidays are all about exploring and being in the open space. Whether you’re looking for this to be in the countryside or on the beach, you can rest assured there is an abundance of destinations for you throughout France. The only problem is everyone is looking for the same thing, and with popularity comes an increase in price. But it isn’t like that all over the country. Great destinations such as Biarritz and the Drome still have the breathtaking scenery and wide open spaces as the other regions, but without the same cost.

Look for cheaper accommodation

The French market caters perfectly for family holidays and if you get a little creative and really investigate your options, there are great deals to be had. Rural French B&B’s are often much cheaper than their English equivalents and are great value for money, as are the many independently run campsites throughout the country.

Get looking online for deals

The holiday market has been completely transformed by the internet. You can scour the net for cheap holiday deals anywhere in the world, using any number of price comparison websites. Whatever form of accommodation you’re looking for, if you keep abreast of the action online there is huge scope to make considerable savings. Why not consider looking for all-inclusive accommodation? You may think this is reserved just for destinations like Spain and the Canary Islands, but you’d be wrong. More and more all-inclusive accommodation is becoming available in France. Have a look, and who knows what savings you could make.

photo credit:caperfrasers.wordpress.com

A few days ago I came upon an article about three small islands, that I actually had no clue even existed. You would think being a Canadian and all that I would have known that a few islands around Newfoundland existed. Although, the funny thing is these tiny collection of islands are not apart of Canada. They are apart of the country of France.
These islands are located about 25km away from the coast of Fortune, Newfoundland. They can be accessible by a short ferry ride and among the Canadian locals of N.L, these islands are a lovely easy vacation spot. With only a small population of 7,000 people, the New France Colonial is a bustling busy place. Today the residents of these islands rely heavily on government jobs, tourism and of course seafood.
The main island, yet the smallest has a town called St.Pierre where it is the most populated. What is so popular about this island rather than the other islands are the  homes. They are decorated with much colour and charm. Also many tourists go for the well name bakeries and seafood restaurants.
What is so interesting about this small community is the history. Back during the prohibition days- 1920′s, most of the fishing docks were being used a shipping stations for all the distribution of alcohol across North America. Many Europeans fled to this island to work at the docks during this time of crisis.
As it being part of the European Union, these islands work on the Euro dollars and only speak French. The people still to this day keep all the French traditions alive through summer festivals, amazing food, and their native language.
This is a place totally worth seeing if you enjoy French dishes, local culture and a friendly atmosphere.

Photo credit: st-pierre-et-miquelon.com

1.Open all-day and night; this multi-culture café is filled with people all summer long. It is located in the area called Belleville, where once wasn’t the most fancy neighborhood but is now far more interesting than many other areas in Paris. It is an area mixed with a little of French, China, and North African foods. Perfect for those who are traveling and wanting to experience many culture at one.

photo credit :dutchthis.blogspot.com

2. Chez Prune
One of the hippest parts of Paris better known as Canal Saint-Martin, Chez Prune Café is the central hangout spot. With it located a long side of the canal; the locals always say you need to grab a table outside quickly because it fills up very fast. Since it does have the best coffee is the neighborhood.

photo credit: www.flickr.com

3. Café de Flore
Better known as the best café in Paris and as a Parisian would say, the best café experience. This café is worth the hour of sitting down and enjoying the perfect croissant and coffee. It is the gem in Paris for coffee. So this is a must see café!!!

photo credit: europeupclose.com

One Friday, a friend and I decided we wanted to explore Chamonix (France), an absolute paradisiac ski resort. And so we hopped on a train and arrived in Chamonix a few hours later. How to describe Chamonix? It was just absolutely gorgeous! We had no expectations when we first arrived so we were really happy with our experience there. It’s basically a small ski village, full of shops, restaurants and accommodations. We stayed in a small B&B. The food was soo good! From Chamonix, you can access different peaks of Mont Blanc such as Aiguille du Midi, Mont Blanc du Tacul, Mont Blanc among others. We opted for Aiguille du Midi and it was a good choice. The only downer was that I didn’t have my skis with me so I took my friend’s snow blades. We all know that snow blades won’t give you the same experience as skis! But hey, I can’t be too greedy.

It is indeed an expensive place since it’s a ski resort. Expect to dish out some cash for food and accommodation. But it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area… and even if you’re going specifically for a ski trip. We went in March and the weather was perfect. It was nice and sunny, not too cool and not too hot. Aw, Chamonix!