#TreasuresOfFrance

[figdays]

Vintage Figural Barbotine Majolica Shell Teacup // TreasuresOfFrance

[blueskytraveler]

Paris nights!!! ❤️🇫🇷 #treasuresoffrance #ilovefrance See More Photos at http://ift.tt/1H1xpzE

[bicyclegourmetstreasuresoff-blog]

Da Bg’s French Country Travel Life Clock – ain’t really mine. But without me telling you -you’d never know would you?

And Da Bg is tellin’ you, because in all my zillion year  and a half years of French Country Travel Life Adventures – I’ve never seen anything even remotely close to the“Horologe (clock) Astronomique du Beauvais.”

This magnificent momument to French precision machinery was created between 1865 and 1868 by Lucien August Véritie inside the Cathederal of St Peter in the Village of Beauvais.

Wikipedia has the fascinating details:

“It is 12 metres high, and 6 metres wide.

The 52 dials display the times of the rising and setting sun and moon, the position of the planets, the current time in 18 cities around the world, and the tidal times. The clock also displays the pact(i.e. age of the moon in days on January 1) and the golden number.

The hours and minutes are shown in the large central face which depicts Jesus Christ and the twelve apostles.

An 1886 edition of Blackwood’s Edinburgh Magazine remarks that: “In the eyes of the neighbourhood the chief wonder of Beauvais is not the cathedral, but the astronomical clock…The mechanical part is admirable. It tells everything which any one can wish to know.”

And that (and THIS VIDEO) is today’s really short (but really unique) French History Lesson.

[bicyclegourmetstreasuresoff-blog]

French Travel Tips - from the French Cycling Gourmet

Like ex-employers who insist “your cheque is in the mail”, I’ve always been suspicious of the proclamation: “Statistics don’t lie.”They are ,after all, the mathematical creations of Statisticians. The Human kind. Who have been known to”misspeak”themselves. And even, on occasion(shock horror)lie! Thus,it is a minor(personal)miracle I have no such qualms with the statistic that French Travel tops the “Travel Hit Parade” for North Americians.

My own humble(but authentic)experience confirms whatever the appropriate numbers are. Virtually every third person I meet, (especially during “The Season”) is a non- Froggie.

The attractions are the same ones the locals enjoy. Achingly beautiful nature. Food. Wine. Art. History. And culture with a capital”C.” The reasons the majority of the French holiday in their own country. They really do have it all! As they will inform you,without hesitation. And, since the classic “all-the-French-on-holiday”month is August, this is, bien sur, the perfect time to NOT be travelling in Europe’s premier playground.

How do you travel? – Let us count the ways:

1.Car

Mr. Ford’s great little invention is great for getting from point A to point B, with a maximum of comfort and a minimum of inconvenience. Not withstanding occasional Summer maladies such as overheating, no garage open, and the number of other travellers who have decided(without consulting you!)to travel the same road to adventure.

2. Country Roads(work)

Another potential grain ‘o sand in yer gears, is roadwork.For reasons that defy North American logic, all seeing/all knowing French bureaucracy has decreed that Summer is the best time to make those highway”improvements.” Nationwide. In cities. Towns. And,sigh,yes, that perfect little village you’re trying to head to.

3. Something Hairy This Way Comes

But wait – there’s more! There’s something that could put a “crimp” in both yer holiday and yer car at the same time! It’s a uniquely French “speed bump.” Unique because – it’s alive!

“Sanglier”(-pro –”sang-glee-yah) is the French wild boar.(Think large hairy pig with dinosaur tusks) They sleep during the day. And hunt for grub at night. And, in hunting for said grub,cross roads running through the woods. You’re getting my drift,are you not,dear reader?

4.Camping Car

More comfort than the car. And, because of that, more��challenges.” The principal one being finding a place to hunker down for the night. With precious few exceptions, if you’re not in a designated/dedicated/definitive area – you’re up the creek without a paddle. Ok – you might, in this totally unfamiliar countryside, find a secluded spot. But, as “Dirty Harry” might say in this situation : “The question you gotta ask yourself is….Do you feel lucky tonight?…….Camper!!!?

more skill testin’ stuff…

Then there’s stove gas, water, sewage disposal, lack ‘o privacy/seclusion, plus all the same “blue meanies” that apply to cars.

Although(To use my  Mother’s favourite phrase)in your “secret heart” you know this – DA BG (Froggie hipster to da world) is reminding you that anyone even remotely considering trying to enter a major French city in “The Season” in any type of four wheeled motor vechile, is not just a sick puppy, but a sick puppy with a death wish!

5.Train

After football,the greatest source of French National pride is it’s rail system. Particularly the train known as the “TGV.” (“Tres Grande Vitesse” – very great speed) Clocking in on some routes at 500 plus kms per hour. This is the premier national service of SNCF, the French rail authority. And, bien sur, you pay accordingly. Basically 20% more than the regional trains.

More good news…

All trains, TGV and TER are 99% on time. And, I’ve found the “trainpersons”(with very few exceptions) to be extremely helpful and courteous. In major stations, someone(maybe even some two)will speak English. Otherwise, someone may speak “a leetle eeeglish.”

6. Bus

In three words – “Don’t go there.”  There is no French “Greyhound.” No regular, National bus service. Regional bus options are severly limited, to say the least. With schedules as variable as the weather in Paris.

What ya got…

The most consistent bus services are from “the burbs” into the big smoke. Short hops ‘o 10 to 20kms. Most train stations in large/medium sized cities will have a bus depot attached, or nearby. “Gare”(rhymes with Car) Routier” is the unpredictable adventure sign to look for.

7. Bicycle

Yes,I have saved the best for the last! And, yes, I am prejudicied. But rightly so.

Made in the shade…

On two(non motorized wheels) no worries with motors overheating, garages, traffic, propane, camping spots, sewage/electrical hookup. Not to mention – fuel.For the cyclist, that’s fruit water and granola bars.(Plus all the home made goodies the locals load ya up with!)

Yes, you could conceivably run into a Sanglier. But not likely, since you’re in the same environment. Not removed from it, in a metal box encased in glass.

Goin’ through a major city? Piece ‘o cake. If the roads are blocked – use the sidewalk.(a 360 euro fine in paris. So, jus’ speak English and smile.You’re a tourist right?….whaddya know?) Everywhere else, I’ve never had a problem.

Emergency Option

If it’s too hot/cold/wet/long/boring, or any/all of the preceding – there is the train. Bikes are free on the TER. Although there is not always a dedicted “velo wagon.” Meaning that if you don’t see a bicycle “logo” on any cars as the train screeches to a stop – you have two scant minutes to(attempt to) scramble aboard and find  spot that does’nt block an aisle or a toilet. Best bet in this situation is the front of the car immediately behind the engine. Usually no toilet there.

The fun’s not over…

On older TER trains(the majority)you enter via two high metal steps,leading to a heavy metal door that doesn’t fully open, and is a bitch to open even without a bike! So if yer bike n’ gear can’t be finessed through in one swell foop, be ready to set a new train boarding record in the breaking down and loading category.

Don’t put away yer wallet yet…

Because Monsieur et Madame TGV will want(at this writing) 10 euro for the exalted priviledge of allowing yer two wheeled pal aboard…….IF the TGV you need even has a “velo wagon.” If not, you is travellin’ solo, or makin’ a very long ride!

There’s one in every barrel

Also have yer radar up for the occasional “rotten apple” TGV conductor. Who, although you have paid, will not allow you on because yer (loaded) touring bike is not in a bag! Viva la France!

It’s not over yet…

But wait – there’s more! Four to be exact .(by my count.) Only four elevators in the entire French rail system. So if you’re “physically disadvantaged”, got a too heavy to lift bike, more suitcases than sense, or a potted palm from yer cousin in Florida – “Tant Pis!” (“Too Bad”)

More Bicycle Bennies…

In this cycle-crazed nation(“Tour de France, etc) there are cycle paths/routes in most(but not all)regions. Alsace is especially “cyclified.”With free maps specifically for the two wheeled crowd that take you deep into very cool and quiet spots. (And are’nt those the best kind?)

[bicyclegourmetstreasuresoff-blog]

French Country Travel Life Cycling - your personal Tour de France

French Cycling is as good as it gets. The cream (or more accurately, “crème” ) ‘o the crop. The top of the adventure mountain. And I’m not just saying that because I’ve been labelled the French Cycling Gourmet!.

Leader of the Pack

France has three big cycling advantages. First, and most important,it has more beauty and variety than any other European country. Italy, Spain, Southern Germany, Luxembourg-been there/done that/got the tee-shirt. If you have’nt –you need to! Each has something unique and exceptional to offer. But not variety “a la Francaise.”

Variety

French cycling’s second attraction is the abundance of bike trails throughout the country. You’ll notice I said “throughout” as opposed to “all over.” Some regions are more “cycle progressive” than others.

Options

But – Don’t despair! Because all over the country you will find at least two alternatives to the main filled-with-traffic-noise-exhaust fumes route. Country roads. Plain and simple. The highways of the country people. Dotted with –surprise, surprise – Them. Their houses. Their land. Their lifestyles. Now, isn’t that what really what French cycling is all about?

So,what about your French Cycling adventure? Whaddaya need to follow in my tire tracks?

GETTING  STARTED

There are exceptions to the truism”you get what you pay for.” Buying a French Cycling bike is not one of them. This is not a cost. This is an investment. A chocolate bar is a cost. Once it’s gone – end o’ story. A good touring bike is an investment. A continuing story. More than simply reliable transportation. It’s also your confidante ,dream facilitator, passport to adventure and your best travellin’ pal. So – ya need to find the best travelling pal possible. N’est ce pas?

Here are the “Friendship Qualities” to look for :

THE FRAME.

Light n’ strong. Here’s where “more”(dollars) is ,most often, mo’ beddah.$400-800 should getcha 90% of the cycling enchilada. In this price range the frame will likely be “cromoly” – a tasty blend of chrome and aluminium.

The more pictures of dead presidents you have to play with – the lighter the frame. The nth degree being carbon fibre. After that, it’s “the sky’s the limit price club.” Frames built with stuff NASA is only dreaming about!

TIRES.

Don’t, repeat don’t economize here. This is what “floats yer boat.” So invest in the best. $25 to $45 per tire is the range. I use, and recommend, the “Dutch perfect” brand.(Even tho’ they’re not paying me for this. Hint-hint!) This tire has an interior layer that traps tire-puncturin’ nasties. Preventin’ ’em from doin’ in the rubber you float on.

The “Dutch Perfect’s” come with a one year guarantee.(in normal use) I’ve used them abnormally (what else?)six months with no punctures……but two (one front, one rear) “tube failures” due to heat and weight. Sadly, there are no “quality options” for tubes.

Should ya carry a spare? This is a “should I wear a helmet?” question. Depends on yer comfort zone /weight preferences. But, in a zillion and a half years of cycling, I’ve only had a tire explode on me once. (Front one, at that!)

TUBES.

ALWAYS a minimum of two spares. I used to repair tubes. But(again, “too soon old –too late smart”) all the hassle/time/aggro of finding the puncture, marking it applying the glue, waiting for it to set, applying the patch, “proving” the patch..etc (getting tired already aren't ya?) Finally burned the truth into my tiny brain. This is a classic definition of false economy. Ok – I’m not a zillionaire yet but $5(or less)to avoid this dance? – sign me up!

SADDLE.

What non-bike folks call “the seat.” Like a good mattress it should be firm.(ie-support not surround) Softy/foamy saddles are for “girly men” and Sunday cyclists who’s idea of adventure is a 10 mile(return) expedition to “Lattes ‘r Us.”

DA BG recommends an all leather saddle. England’s “Brooks” makes one of the best. Several models, Again, they’re not paying me for this glowing endorsement.

The reason a leather saddle is the “bee’s knee’s”,”the cat’s pyjamas”, and the greatest thing since all night pizza, is that it morphs, ab/fab and uniquely to fit yer rear. The bad news is that the morphing process is two weeks of “I’m sitting on a concrete block” hell! But –hang in(actually hang on) there. Cus’ after that….you’ll be ridin’ with a happy butt.

ACCESSORIES.

Panniers.

Technically an accessory. But, practically, a necessity!

Mimimum two decent sized(ie –not “Sunday cyclist” size) on the back. Ideally, also,”low riders” – frames that attach to yer front forks supporting two smaller(but not tiny) panniers. These “friends on the front” will not only give you a better balanced “unit”, but are essential to carry all the goodies those friendly foreign folks are gonna be tryin’ to weigh ya down with.

My M.O. is to put all the stuff I don’t use during the day in the front – leaving at last half vacant for the swag! (“Build it, and it will come.”)

Water.

Mimimum of two one litre bottles. Or the “camel style” back paks, with “tube feeding” for hand free guzzlin’.

Should ya buy the super spendy insulated bottles? Depends, as always on yer wallet. My experience is that they’re great, for about an hour. (Keep in mind I’m usually in 35-40° celsius heat, every day) Being the boy scout I am, my solution is to freeze the standard (non-insulated) plastic bottles, then tape ’em with aluminium foil in the a.m.

They’ll defrost slowly, keeping ya cool through most o’ the day.However, as your Nutritionist/Doctor has probably told you, as good as that cold aqua goes down on a boiling day, water does ya the most good at room temperature. (No happy medium here.)

Lights.

Really jonesin’ to barrel down those country roads in da pitch black? Then lights will definitely decrease yer chances of an unexpected meeting with a Sanglier. (The French wild boar. Think small,hairy  Rhinoceros.)

Reflectors.

On the bike. And/or around yer ankles. Why not? Inexpensive and practical. (Now there’s a combo ya don’t see often!) And, chances of you cycling in twilight, are much greater than those of “Sanglier surfing.”

GPS.

Since I’m from the “getting-lost-is-part-of-the-adventure” school, I can’t give ay any….ahem……”guidance” here. A map, a mouth, and half a brain(on a good day,bien sur) usually saves my bacon.

Counters.

If you’ll be countin’ sheep all night cus’ you don’t know how many kms of adventure you did…….get one. Personally, I could give a rat’s ass. But it is the logical question everyone you meet is gonna ask. I just tell my friendly froggies where I started – and let them do the math!

Parts.

Unlike those four wheeled metal monsters who offer you the unrivalled thrill of waiting for you part to arrive; or even better, waiting to see if your part even exists, and if so, can be ordered – bike parts are bike parts. A brake cable is a brake cable. In the mall super store, or the back o’ beyond.

That should get ya started on your French Cycling adventure.

Anything I missed?