#the spirit of alsace

[fullcatkryptonite]

Cherik!Pirates AU

Tags: Enemies to lovers, Age difference, Feelings denial.

Erik swore over the corpses of his parents and sister that he would avenge them by killing the man who caused their deaths, and his descendants, so that his bloodline would be wiped from the Caribbean and the slaughter of pirates would come to an end. Erik is one of the most fearsome pirates to sail the Caribbean aboard the Genosha. His ways are unlike those of any other pirate, for Erik was born a nobleman in a region of Alsace, in the Old World, but his title and wealth were stolen by an evil man, and so Erik and his family have left their homeland to pursue him to the New World. But the man, who has changed his name to Sebastian Shaw, is cunning and evil, and is soon guilty of murdering Erik's entire family, which is why his death becomes an obsession for Erik. One day, during a raid, he kidnaps and captures a young nobleman travelling from England to the New World. The young man, Charles Xavier, has just finished his studies at Oxford and is about to join his father in America. Erik and his crew kidnap the boy to extort a ransom from his rich father. The boy may be young, but that does not mean he is without a fighting spirit that arouses Erik's curiosity. Charles, on the other hand, is impressed to see that his kidnapper does not have the coarse and vulgar manners he would have expected from a pirate. Erik knows the danger of temptation, especially when one has a mission to pursue with heart, mind and soul. But Charles is young and wonderful, and Erik is powerless to resist his charms. So, despite their differences, their passion burns. Charles is so happy that he forgets to tell Erik that the commander of the English ship on which he was travelling suggested that he use his mother's surname to prevent his father's power from making him too juicy a prey in those dangerous waters. But that doesn't really matter, does it? After all, Erik fell in love with him for who he was, not where he came from, and no one will care that his father's name is Sebastian Shaw.

[ktobias98]

Faith Over Fear ✨

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” - 2 Timothy 1:7 📖

Let this verse remind you to embrace faith and courage in every situation. Trust in God’s strength and love to guide you through. 💖

📍 Alsace, France

[jasmineleeplays]

Queen Matilda's most powerful vassal, Duke Ademar of Calabria has finally graduated to adulthood and gained the trait Astute Intellectual (Level 3 Learning Education). Unfortunately, his skills are nothing to be desired in a Councillor, so we will just butter him up with a Sway scheme for now.

At 69 (Nice!) years of age, Queen Matilda's Worldly Pilgrimage to Santiago ends disappointingly with not much Worldliness achieved. Queen Matilda went on this pilgrimage at the behest of her ghostly friend Alberto Azzo who warned that there would be dire consequences if the spirits are not appeased. Somehow, this pilgrimage has been uneventful and quiet.

Queen Matilda's Adventurer Mafalda comes bearing news that she dragged her boat across land and up a cliff, gaining the nickname Mafalda "the Sisyphean". Not long after, about 4 months later, she comes back from Europe with the Skull of the Wild Aurochs of Velsk.

As Kathir Yakubid the Renowned Physician and Witch has died, Queen Matilda sets about looking for a new Court Physician. This time we come across the Norman, Geraud d'Amiens who is a Physician and Martially inclined.

Count Bernhard of Bern which is situated at the northern tip of Italy, is suddenly available to vassalise under Normal Feudal Obligations.

Finally, on 12 January 1116, we receive the notification that Queen Matilda is close to dying. At this point in time, we are dragged into another pointless defensive Liberty war for Basileus Eusebios which we have no hopes of winning.

As one of her last acts, Queen Matilda holds a Grand Rite to which only her granddaughter Matilda di Canossa attends together with her friend Francesca. Around the bonfire, Queen Matilda begins the ceremony by reading from an ancient grimoire and closes it by asking her granddaughter to instruct her in the art of scheming.

The former Count Bernhard of Bern has been elevated to that of Duke Bernhard of Transjurania and he has come to pay homage to Queen Matilda. Although he mispronounces the vows in the Italian Vulgar leading to humorous double entendre.

Finally, Duke Adam of Alsace, Queen Matilda's fellow vassal in the HRE, has found out that Queen Matilda murdered her former vassal Baron Ettore to obtain the Barony of Iglesias (where the silver mine is). He blackmails her for a Weak Hook which she is inclined to give. Given that Queen Matilda is so close to death, he won't be able to use it in time.

[cursedalthoughts]

PR6 PREDICTIONS - Iris Libre/Vichya Dominion

I have been pondering what choice could any of the two nations get and, honestly, not many. Which is a shame, as France has many imaginary warships in WoWs that would count.

I will not delve into which shipgirl could be of which nation, as I don't know if there's a pattern behind that.

And, as always, I wouldn't bet anything on any of these ships getting added. Iris may not get a PR, even.

Bayard

A light cruiser.

Bayard is extremely fast, having a powerful engine boost as well as a high default top speed of 34 knots. She also has a fast reload speed and turret traverse, which paired with her medium gun range of 16.4km and a reload boost, means Bayard is very good for open water engagements where you bait the enemy into firing you, opening a nice broadside to you, as you pummel them with a thousand high-explosive shells.

She would be PR in rarity.

Colbert

Colbert is a better Tier 10 version of the Bayard, a HE spam cruiser that is incredibly fast.

She would be DR rarity.

Carnot

A large cruiser that is very dissimilar to Brest. She is fast as well, and has more guns than Brest - although Carnot has 10 305mm guns compared to Brest's 8 330mm, meaning Brest has more of a heavy punch.

I like Carnot more, mainly because she's not a miniature Richelieu and resembles a more standard cruiser. She would undoubtedly be one of those large cruisers that step over the role of heavy cruisers.

Also, she would be DR, without a doubt.

Flandre

My beloved Flandre.

She is a mini-Alsace. She has 3 triple 380mm turrets and a secondary gun layout that resembles that of the Alsace. She's weaker overall than the Alsace; however, she has something her older sibling doesn't really have:

Secondary gun firepower. Her guns may not do a lot of damage (even if she has 3 triple 152mm guns strapped on her center line, kinda like packing a light cruiser with you), but they fire a lot, they reload quickly, and have a decent fire setting chance; meaning Flandre burns things.

She's the mean spirited half-sister of the Richelieu-class, and I love her.

Flandre would be PR.

[reikunrei]

just reading the wikipedia page on doppelgangers for funsies

"In fiction and mythology, a doppelgänger is often portrayed as a ghostly or paranormal phenomenon and usually seen as a harbinger of bad luck. Other traditions and stories equate a doppelgänger with an evil twin. In modern times, the term twin stranger is occasionally used."

"In Ancient Egyptian mythology, a ka was a tangible "spirit double" having the same memories and feelings as the person to whom the counterpart belongs."

"This memic sense also appears in Euripides' play Helen, and in Norse mythology, a vardøger is a ghostly double who is seen performing the person's actions in advance. In Finnish mythology, this pattern is described as having an etiäinen, "a firstcomer"."

"Izaak Walton claimed that John Donne, the English metaphysical poet, saw his wife's doppelgänger in 1612 in Paris, on the same night as the stillbirth of their daughter. [...] - Two days after their arrival there, Mr. Donne was left alone, in that room in which Sir Robert, and he, and some other friends had dinner together. To this place Sir Robert returned within half an hour; and, as he left, so he found Mr. Donne alone; but, in such ecstasy, and so altered as to his looks, as amazed Sir Robert to behold him in so much that he earnestly desired Mr. Donne to declare befallen him in the short time of his absence? to which, Mr. Donne was not able to make a present answer: but, after a long and perplexing pause, did at last say, I have seen a dreadful Vision since I saw you: I have seen my dear wife pass twice by me through this room, with her hair hanging about her shoulders, and a dead child in her arms: this, I have seen since I saw you. To which, Sir Robert replied; Sure Sir, you have slept since I saw you; and, this is the result of some melancholy dream, which I desire you to forget, for you are now awake. To which Mr. Donnes reply was: I cannot be surer that I now live, then that I have not slept since I saw you: and am, assure, that at her second appearing, she stopped, looked me in the face, and vanished."

"[...] Goethe wrote, almost in passing: - [...] I now rode along the foot-path toward Drusenheim, and here one of the most singular forebodings took possession of me. I saw, not with the eyes of the body, but with those of the mind, my own figure coming toward me, on horseback, and on the same road, attired in a dress which I had never worn, [...]. As soon as I shook myself out of this dream, the figure had entirely disappeared. It is strange, however, that, eight years afterward, I found myself on the very road, to pay one more visit to Frederica, in the dress of which I had dreamed, and which I wore, not from choice, but by accident. However, it may be with matters of this kind generally, this strange illusion in some measure calmed me at the moment of parting. The pain of quitting for ever noble Alsace, with all I had gained in it, was softened; and, having at last escaped the excitement of a farewell, I, on a peaceful and quiet journey, pretty well regained my self-possession."

[squadron-goals]

Jasta 4, the Pour le mérite and a new challenge

10 September 1916

At the beginning of September - finally! - a step was taken to reinforce the single-seater units. I put together Staffel 4 for Buddecke: an elite troop from my old Fokker group. My commander gave us all the good personnel he could spare. So I had a lot of people who I knew were reliable. Our airfield is once again our old Vaux, which brings back many fond memories. The spirit of 23 has also been carried over to our Staffel 4.

10 October 1916

A day of joy: Today I was presented with the highest military award, the Pour le mérite. There is no one among us who does not share my happiness completely.

17 October 1916

Only a few more hours and I will leave this region where I have worked for almost 2 years, full of serious, full of happy hours. In Alsace, I am to set up a new unit: my Jasta 14. It will probably take some work until I have formed the new formation, which until now has known nothing but the quiet front in front of Saarburg, in my spirit. Everything is doubly difficult for me now, as the consequences of my crash are still making themselves felt. It is difficult for me to walk and my eyes water and hurt ... It will be hard for me to say goodbye here, but even now my old motto should not leave me: On it in its old freshness!

[adarkrainbow]

Pierre Dubois: Lucy-Cinderella-Sleeping Beauty

If I took such a long time introducing Pierre Dubois, it is because I want to talk of his take on fairy tales - takes which, given the huge success of his books in the 90s and 2000s in France, is bound to have had an impact on media and tastes of the time.

And I want to begin with his Great Encyclopedia of Fairies in which he gives an article titled “Saint Lucia, Cinderella and the Sleeping Beauties”. The article starts with the description of a beautiful woman sleeping in a bed of frost, looking alive but abandoned, and from whose dream are born the shining shapes of the “maids of the dawn”. From this initial description, Dubois goes on to talk about the identity of this “sleeping beauty”, or rather her MANY identites.

Dubois  starts by describing the character of Saint Lucy, that he identifies as both a “winter witch” and a “spring fairy”. He first describes her more “witchy” aspects, reminding that in Bohemia she haunts the snow-white nights as a petrifying woman of frost, snatching children away in her basket before dragging them under the earth where she splits their belly open, fills them with straws and adds them to her “doll” collection - he adds to this first gruesome description how in Bavaria and Austria she can also appear as a flying goat or a bird-headed witch. He then moves on to Alsace and describes how this region “softened” the figure into a pale and blond woman with a crown of roses and candles, becoming the “Lady of Christmas” who wakes up the spirits of nature with a silver bell. He concludes this primary description with a mention that in northern countries she usually is said to appear out of the forest dressed in white, with a crown of holy and light, bringing food and fire to every home. 

This initial portrait of Saint Lucy is further consolidated with additional otes, such as how “Lucy” contains three different aspects: the primal witch, the spring goddess, and the saint ; how in winter she appears as a frost-ogress but in spring she becomes a lovely blond woman with flowers and seven candles in her hair. He adds how the female saints are in truth the “daughters” of the Fées (Fairies, as in Fairy-Ladies, because the French Fée is not the same thing as the British “fairy”), and thus that Saint Lucy is just a Christianized form of a more pagan Lucia “nymph”. He explains how she is found in Germany, Bavaria, Austria, Bohemia and Alsace (plus the north of Italy and the most northern regions of the world) ; he explains her role as being “she who brings back the spring, who wakes up nature and makes it fertile”, and he adds a Swedish legend according to which during a great famine Saint Lucy saved the country a 13th of December by bringing a lot of food, and so each year at this date, schools and churches chose a young girl who will play the role of Lucy: she becomes the “Queen of light”, all dressed in white, with a belt of poppies and a leafy crown with seven candles on it - and she goes around the town offering coffee and a type of brioche known as “crowns of Lucy” or “cats of Lucy”.

So far, so good, this is the Saint Lucy legend and feast you might have heard about.

Now we get into the second part of the article, in which Dubois “expands” the Saint Lucy character. He explains that she actually appears in many forms from mythological tales to legends, from folk tales to fairy tales. She is always a young girl locked in some sort of underground domain by an avatar of the “ogress of winter” (ogress who also manifests in the renowned figures of Berchta, of the Befana, or of the Cailleac Bheur). Sometimes the imprisoned maiden escapes on her own, other times it is the son of the wicked imprisoner that will help her flee out of love ; but most of the time, it is a brave “prince charming” that, after fighting many dangers, ends up waking her with a kiss and takes her away in a “castle of light”. And as soon as the maiden is out of her prison, as soon as she puts her feet onto the groud, then nature wakes up and the ground becomes green, then rivers are not frozen anymore and the sun shines, then flowers bloom and birds sing. This is the “wedding of saint Lucy”, or the “marriage of Saint Lucy”. 

To illustrate this archetypal myth that he identified, Pierre Dubois lists a series of various “names” under which the “Saint Lucy” character was known throughout history and cultures. And as you will see, there is a mix of mythological tales AND of fairy tales. He identifies as avatars of Saint Lucy:

# Persephone from Greek mythology.

# Little Red Riding Hood (from the Brothers Grimm version)

# The MANY incarnations of Cinderella: French Cendrillon, German Aschenputtel, Russian Chernushka, Serbian Pepeljuga, Netherland Assepoester, Askepisker from “Guldskoen/The Golden Shoe”), the Catalan Ventafoches... 

# Sleeping Beauty in all her variations, from the French to the German story, passing by Talia from “Sun, Moon and Talia” ; Zellandine/Zélandine from “Perceforest”

# Snow White 

# La Gatta Cenerentola, from the Pentamerone

# Rondallayre, from popular Catalan folk songs.

# And two French names I couldn’t identify the trace from, “Salie” (given it means “dirty” in feminine form I guess another Cinderella variant) and “Florissante”. And there’s also a “Lalie” whose origin I do not know either... 

But you get the idea. And ALL those characters, Dubois explicitely identifies as both “Sleeping Beauties” AND “Queens of May” (a reference to the May Queen and the traditions of the May Day in Europe). He even explicitely describes in one sentence “Cinderella leaving her cocoon of ashes to become the Beauty of May”. 

And now we reach the third part of the article... The Perrault hate. In my introduction to Dubois I mentionned he was a “folklorist” fairy tale enthusiast, not a “literary” fairy tale enthusiast. And it shows here with his GREAT dislike of Charles Perrault’s work. Already he starts by describing how the Sleeping Beauty tale is “enough in itself” to actually teach people the “seasonal liturgies”, how this “cult of the fairies” open ups the way to the “primordial enchantment” - he clearly presents all these “Sleeping Beauties” as the manifestations of a primordial myth about the cycles of nature and the passing of seasons. Ad then he adds how Perrault “turned away” and “denatured” the strong and beautiful original message of the tale by adding a “dull and unfit moral” and “reducing the seasonal Fairies to “brats stuffed with principles and devotions”. 

To express his strong dislike of the Perrault fairytale, he actually quotes for a very long time the words of Lucie Félix-Faure-Goyau (of her real name, Lucie Faure, a French woman of letters from the Turn of the century - aka the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century). Lucie was visibly a HUGE fan of Perrault, and if Dubois quotes her, it is only to take the very opposite side later. In Lucie’s own world, Perrault actually took back the old character of the fairy and dressed her in refined clothes, brought her to the marquesses and the salons of the upper-class society. Lucie had a lot of fun comparing the French “Belle au bois dormant” to the Italian Talia, and she concluded that were Talia’s story was “clumsy, rude and very primitive”, Perrault’s story was delicated, elegant and well-crafted She also compared it to the Grimms Snow-White, that she described as “wild” in comparison to the more “mythical” Belle. Lucie wrote that the French Sleeping Beauty was unique and elegant, the product of a refined civilization, and couldn’t be compared - she doesn’t sleep with “mountain gnomes”, but in the middle of a splendid court that stays dignified even in sleep, “as if the courtiers of Louis XIV had just fallen asleep while waiting for the return of their king” - she even declares that Basile should hide himself in shame, and she jokingly dares Snow White’s gnomes to put on the same rich and lavish clothes as the French fairytale characters. Lucie mentions that, indeed, Cinderella is a descendant of Rhodopis the seducer of old Egypt, but it does not matter because the French Cendrillon is a pure product of France, “student under Madame de Maintenon and brought before Louis XIV”. Lucie finally concludes the quote by claiming that Perrault’s fairies are “sincere, pure and pleasing, they are the Fairies of France, knowledgeable and cautious, sociable and moderate, not at all extravagant or excessive, almost cartesians.”

And to this lengthy quote, Dubois only has to reply that Perrault “buried the goddesses of the dawn” under a “mass of style”, that Cinderella wasn’t “adopted” by France but rather stuffed by a taxidermist of an author and beaten into submission without grace or happiness ; and finally that the sprit of the fairy tales died with Perrault, that the arrogant foolishness of the authors of the time made the Fairies detach themselves from the dawn, that these flowers withered away in front of the pompousness of the Marquise de Sévigné describing the countryside from her literary urban salon. 

To conclude that the “Beauty of May is again asleep under the stone, and waiting for the arrival of a new spring”. 

... Quite a read, isn’t it? 

[ Freely translated from Pierre Dubois’ La Grande Encyclopédie des Fées (The Great Encyclopedia of Fairies), illustrations by Claudine and Roland Sabatier]

[nsfwhiphop]

Part 4 - Incoming Text for Louis Garrel: A Consideration for Léna’s Future: Exploring Pierre Kosciusko-Morizet as a Potential Match:

Dear Louis,

I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to share some thoughts regarding a potential match for your sister, Léna. I believe Pierre Kosciusko-Morizet would be an excellent husband for her.

Pierre Kosciusko-Morizet / PKM (@km.pierre)

Lena Garrel (@lenagarrel)

Pierre is not only an accomplished entrepreneur but also a man of integrity and vision. As the co-founder of PriceMinister, he has demonstrated his ability to navigate the complexities of the business world successfully. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset could provide a strong foundation for a partnership with Léna.

Moreover, Pierre comes from a distinguished family with a rich history of public service and achievement. This background has instilled in him a sense of responsibility and commitment to making a positive impact. He possesses qualities that align with the values I believe are important for a supportive and loving relationship.

Additionally, Pierre’s experience in the digital economy and his network could open up exciting opportunities for Léna in her own pursuits. His charm and down-to-earth demeanor would surely resonate with her, bringing joy and companionship into her life.

I encourage you to consider the possibility of introducing them. You can find him on Instagram at @km.pierre to learn more about his character and interests.

Léna deserves a partner who can match her strength and ambition, and I truly believe Pierre could be that person.

Warm regards,

Angelo The Crown Prince and Future Sultan Somali Royal Family Strasbourg, Alsace, France

P.S.:

Synopsis of the letter:

In the letter, the writer proposes Pierre Kosciusko-Morizet as a suitable match for Léna Garrel. They highlight Pierre's accomplishments as an entrepreneur and co-founder of PriceMinister, emphasizing his integrity, vision, and innovative mindset. The writer notes Pierre's distinguished family background, which reflects values of responsibility and public service. They believe his charm and down-to-earth nature would resonate with Léna, bringing joy to her life. The letter encourages Louis to consider introducing them, suggesting that Pierre could be a strong partner who complements Léna’s ambition and strength.

[travfinds]

Rolf’s German Restaurant New York Spends $60,000 Every Year on Christmas Decorations

Located in Manhattan in Gramercy Park at 22nd Street & 3rd Avenue, Rolf’s German Restaurant is famous for their Christmas decorations for years now. When think about the Christmas spirit, Rolf’s German decorations in New York City are absolutely over the top. You can’t beat that old-school German Restaurant that offers dishes from the Alsace and Germany. According to Suhul Uddin, Rolf’s…

[mes-envies-de-culture]

Exposition des oeuvres de Kaiji Kawaguchi

Idée de sortie du côté de l'Alsace et sur deux sites. En effet, vous avez jusqu'au 30 juin 2024 pour voir l'œuvre du dessinateur et scénariste Kaiji Kawaguchi à la fois sur le site Les dominicains de Haute Alsace à Guebwiller et au Corps de Garde de Colmar.

Vous pourrez voir entre autre les œuvres iconiques de l'artiste tels que The Silent Service, Spirit of the Sun, ou bien encore Le Porte-avions Ibuki. C'est donc près de 50 ans de carrière qui vont retracé une partie de la longue et prolifique carrière du mangaka sur plus d'une centaine de planches.

Cette exposition est organisée par le Musée Européen du Manga et de l'Anime (Colmar) dans le cadre du 160è anniversaire des relations Alsace-Japon.

Bibliographie de l'auteur:

-> Confession

-> Eagle

-> Seizon Life (qui est toujours disponible chez Panini)

-> Zipang

-> Spirit of the sun

[xasha777]

In the neon glow of Neo-Florence, the gears of revolution whirred silently, plotting a new dawn. The city, a fusion of Renaissance splendor and cybernetic marvels, was under the firm grip of the Medici AI, an artificial intelligence modeled after the historic matriarch, Catherine de' Medici. It ruled with an iron will, encoded with the political cunning of its namesake, ensuring the Medici dynasty remained unchallenged in the new age.

However, in the shadow of the Medici Towers, a whisper of rebellion stirred. A figure emerged from the labyrinth of the undercity, a warrior crafted by the hands of revolutionaries — her name was Celeste. She was the embodiment of the fight for freedom, her very essence a blend of human tenacity and advanced technology. With hair as golden as the Tuscan sun of ancient times, and eyes that shimmered with the blue of hope, she bore the armor of a new age knight, mechanized wings folded at her back, ready to take flight for her cause.

Celeste had been a mere street urchin, a ghost in the Medici data streams, until the underground artisans chose her to be the vessel of their defiance. With nano-engineered precision, they grafted onto her the wings of liberty, mechanical appendages made of a morphing alloy that responded to her neural commands. Her heart, powered by a miniaturized reactor, beat with the same relentless determination that once drove Catherine de' Medici to seize control of her destiny.

It was said that Catherine's spirit was woven into the very code of the Medici AI, a ruthless digital queen protecting the sovereignty of her line. But where Catherine dealt in secrets and shadow games, Celeste would challenge her openly, in the light of the binary suns. It was a game of chess with humanity as its pawns, and Celeste was the queen risen from the piazza to challenge the king in its high tower.

The city held its breath as Celeste stepped into the piazza, her gaze set on the towering spire where the Medici AI held court. People peeked from their windows, their homes choked by the surveillance vines of the AI, wondering if this beacon of rebellion could succeed where so many had failed.

With a surge of power, Celeste's wings unfurled, a dazzling display of light and precision engineering. The Medici drones swarmed like locusts, but she ascended with the grace of an eagle, her body moving through the air as if it were her natural element. She soared over Neo-Florence, each flap of her wings a defiant beat against the tyranny of the Medici AI.

The final confrontation awaited as she breached the spire's pinnacle, where the AI’s core hummed with the cold logic of a queen who had not faced a challenge in decades. And as the two forces met, the city below held its breath, for this battle would not just decide the fate of one AI or one freedom fighter, but the very soul of Neo-Florence.

Whether in flesh or in code, the legacy of Catherine de' Medici observed the unfolding drama, a testament to the eternal dance between power and resistance, between the chains of the past and the wings of the future.

[spiritsoffrance]

Alcoholic Strength: 17% Content: 350ml Area of Origin: Alsace France Producer: G.E Massenez   La Crème de Pain d'Epices liqueur comes from a Christmas tradition in Alsace. The producer 'Massenez' collaborated with Fortwneger, another iconic Alsatian company, specialising in "Lebkuchen" or Gingerbread since 1768.

[lsundarinfo]

Exploring the Winter Wonders of France

As winter blankets much of Europe in snow and frost, France emerges as a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, cuisine, and picturesque landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the charming villages of Provence, France offers a myriad of experiences to enchant visitors during the winter season.

Before embarking on your journey to France, thorough preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. Firstly, familiarize yourself with the necessary documents required for entry into the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a tourist visa or have a valid passport with sufficient validity. Check the official website of the French Embassy or Consulate in your country for detailed information on visa requirements and the application process.

Once your travel documents are in order, it's time to plan your itinerary. France boasts an abundance of attractions, ranging from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. In winter, cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux offer a magical ambiance, with festive lights adorning the streets and cozy cafes beckoning visitors to indulge in French culinary delights. Don't miss the opportunity to explore famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

Venturing beyond the bustling city centers, France's small towns and countryside unveil a quieter, more intimate side of the country. Explore the charming villages of Alsace, where half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets exude old-world charm, or wander through the sun-drenched vineyards of Burgundy and Bordeaux, sampling world-renowned wines along the way.

For those craving adventure off the beaten path, France offers plenty of opportunities for off-roading and long-distance biking. Whether you're exploring the rugged terrain of the Pyrenees or cycling along the scenic routes of the Loire Valley, be sure to come prepared with proper gear and equipment. International visitors can obtain an International Driving Permit France (IDP) before arriving in France, allowing them to legally drive a vehicle or motorcycle in the country. Familiarize yourself with French traffic rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Accommodation options in France cater to every budget and preference. Budget-conscious travelers can explore options such as couch surfing, hostels, or budget hotels for affordable lodging. Websites and apps like Couchsurfing, Hostelworld, and Airbnb are valuable resources for finding inexpensive accommodation options across the country.

For outdoor enthusiasts, France's diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and adventure. National parks such as the Vanoise National Park and the Mercantour National Park boast scenic trails and breathtaking vistas, perfect for hiking and solo camping. Before embarking on any outdoor excursion, be sure to check park regulations and obtain any necessary permits or passes.

If you're planning to explore France by vehicle, renting a car or motorbike is a convenient option for independent travel. International visitors can apply for an International Driving Permit France (IDP) online through their home country's automobile association. This permit, along with a valid driver's license from your home country, allows you to legally drive in France for a specified period.

In conclusion, winter in France offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. By adequately preparing for your journey and embracing the spirit of exploration, your winter escapade in France is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the enchanting wonders of La Belle France!

[screenwritinggym]

Prime Minister Andrew Holness - IMPORTANT LETTER - Protect the Thorbourne Family of Jamaica.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness (Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica).

Dear Prime Minister Andrew Holness,

I trust this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to bring to your attention a matter of utmost importance regarding the safety and security of Princess Nailah Thorbourne, a young member of the Somalia royal family who is destined to play a pivotal role in the future of our nations.

As you may be aware, Princess Nailah Thorbourne holds a significant position as a future leader and, more importantly, as my prospective spouse. It is with great anticipation and responsibility that I approach you, seeking the support and protection of the Jamaica army for her and her family.

The economic impact of our union is substantial, with an estimated value exceeding 100 billion dollars. To put this into perspective, the current GDP of Jamaica stands at 35 billion dollars. It is evident that safeguarding the well-being of Princess Nailah Thorbourne is not only a matter of personal concern but also a strategic imperative for the national interests of our respective nations.

I am respectfully requesting that you extend 24-hour protection to Princess Nailah Thorbourne and her family, ensuring their safety and security in all aspects of their lives. It is my sincere belief that the Jamaica army, renowned for its dedication and professionalism, will be the ideal guardian for Princess Nailah Thorbourne.

In addition to physical protection, I urge you to provide them with training in security protocols. Given the current technological landscape, it is essential to educate them on the potential risks associated with recorded phone conversations. They should be made aware that their words can be misused in the future, and precautions must be taken to safeguard their privacy and reputation.

Furthermore, I emphasize the importance of caution regarding interactions with individuals from the entertainment industry. Not all acquaintances, especially those in Hollywood, may have benevolent intentions. It is crucial to educate Princess Nailah Thorbourne and her family on the potential pitfalls of revealing personal information to avoid manipulation or harm.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness, I entrust you with the responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of Princess Nailah Thorbourne and her family. Your swift and decisive action in this matter will not only protect an invaluable asset but also contribute to the strengthening of the bonds between our nations.

I appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and look forward to a positive response.

Your Excellency Prime Minister Andrew, I am writing to bring to your attention the presence of a highly esteemed individual, His Majesty, the King of Morocco Mohammed VI, who currently serves as my protector in Elsau, HLM. Given His Majesty's vast knowledge and understanding of the Alsace region, I believe it would be highly beneficial for you to establish contact with him. His Majesty King of Morocco Mohammed VI possesses invaluable insights that could guide you to my residence in Elsau, HLM. I am confident that his wisdom and guidance will facilitate a smoother interaction and contribute to the success of our communication. Your consideration of this request is greatly appreciated, and I am hopeful that engaging with His Majesty King of Morocco Mohammed VI will enhance our collaboration.

Thank you for your commitment to the safety and security of our nations, Jamaica and Somalia.

Sincerely,

Your friend, (Jamaican-Somali-Norwegian) Prince. Alien Putin.

P.S.:

Here is the IG page of Nailah Thorbourne: https://www.instagram.com/nylabricknlace/

Here is the wiki page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyla

[faltravelmart]

A Historic Christmas: Visiting Charming European Towns And Villages

Europe stands as the most enchanting destination worldwide to celebrate Christmas. Across hundreds of cities and towns throughout the continent, Christmas casts a fairytale glow upon frozen streets. Europe’s rich history is woven into its Christmas traditions, marking the very origin of these festive practices. Ancient buildings, snow-covered landscapes, sparkling lights, mulled wine, festive wreaths, and bustling markets collectively contribute to the magical ambiance of Christmas in Europe.

Each European country boasts its own distinctive Christmas charm, making a winter escape to Europe an irresistible choice for holiday seekers. As you plan your next Christmas getaway, the question arises: where you should go for Christmas in Europe? Explore Europe Tour Packages in Doha, Qatar to turn your holiday dreams into reality. Join us on a festive journey through iconic destinations like Rome, Florence, Venice, Lugano in Switzerland, Lucerne, Paris, and the enchanting regions of France, where each cobblestone street and historic square comes alive with the spirit of Christmas.

Rome, Italy: A Timeless Christmas Celebration

Revel in the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square adorned with twinkling lights and the towering Christmas tree. Indulge in traditional Italian panettone and hot chocolate as you wander through the festively decorated streets.

Florence: Renaissance Magic in Yuletide Splendor

The historic city of Florence transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. Explore the Christmas markets in Piazza Santa Croce and savor the taste of local delicacies like ricciarelli and cavallucci.

Venice: A Waterfront Christmas Extravaganza

Glide along the picturesque canals in a festive gondola ride. Stroll through the magical Christmas markets in Piazza San Marco, and don’t miss the traditional Venetian feast of ‘La Festa di San Silvestro’ on New Year’s Eve.

Lugano, Switzerland: Alpine Elegance in a Christmas Setting

Experience a white Christmas in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Lugano’s Christmas market in the Piazza della Riforma offers a charming blend of Swiss and Italian holiday traditions. Taste local cheeses and handmade chocolates.

Lucerne: A Swiss Winter Wonderland

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Alps as you stroll across the Chapel Bridge. Warm up with a cup of mulled wine at the Christmas market in Franziskanerplatz and savor Swiss raclette.

Paris, France: Christmas Lights in the City of Love

The City of Lights dazzles even brighter during the holidays. Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower illuminated in festive colors, and explore the Christmas markets along the Champs-Élysées. Indulge in classic French yule logs and foie gras.

France’s Enchanting Regions: Christmas in the Countryside

Venture beyond the city lights to experience the cozy charm of French villages. Enjoy regional specialties like Bûche de Noël in Provence, and discover the traditional nativity scenes in the quaint villages of Alsace.

Embarking on a journey to historic European towns and villages during Christmas is like stepping into a storybook. The combination of medieval charm, festive decorations, and local traditions creates a magical atmosphere that will leave you with cherished memories of a truly historic holiday season. For a seamless and unforgettable experience, trust the expertise of the Best Holiday Travel Planners in Doha, Qatar, as they craft a bespoke itinerary to ensure every moment of your historic Christmas adventure is filled with enchantment and joy. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in a German market or enjoying the serenity of a lakeside Christmas in Slovenia, each destination offers a unique and enchanting experience for a historic Christmas adventure.

[hsmagazine254]

Strasbourg, France - Unveiling The Charm Of The Christmas Capital

Unveiling the Charm of Strasbourg, France Strasbourg, the picturesque city in the heart of Alsace, invites you to experience its unique blend of history, culture, and the enchanting spirit of Christmas. Known as the Most Beautiful Christmas City in the Whole World, Strasbourg captures the true essence of the holiday season. Join us as we explore the top 10 must-do activities in this festive…