Travel France Tourism

The highway system in France is very well-developed and every motorist is expected to follow the rules. Most freeway links are toll roads, and some toll stations gives access to a certain section while others toll stations have entrances and exits. Motorists passing through a station are given tickets. They accept credit cards but if your car has a chip equipped, then you have access to the automatic booth. If you loose your ticket, the toll station at your exit will charge your for the longest distance to be careful.

Before 2005, policemen can use your ticket if you've committed a speeding violation. However, a new photo-radar system is currently being implemented in the streets of France. As of the moment, there are only selected major routes that use this technology, most of these are near key cities. An huge brown sign is put up that will warn motorists that they are about to enter an area with automatic photo-radar.

When you enter the area, you will notice that other every other car, especially those owned by French citizens, are going slowly than before. Sometimes policemen install a photo-radar system that is mobile. Although you'll be given a warning, the signs are much smaller compared to the ones found on permanent areas. If you've violated the speed limit, you will be intercepted immediately and you'll have to pay the fine. Although there are different tolerance levels, it is not considered general rules.

An urgent appointment compelled me to fly to Corsica in France. The place is strange to me, since I have not been there though I have been going to Paris for many times now. Anyway, I could say that the island is a wood land. It is rich with lush green fields, and perhaps one of the places to go when one is looking for a quiet time.

The people I met there greeted me in the Italian language. Good thing they could also understand English, so I did have difficulties communicating with them. The roads of Corsica smelt good with citrus plants, pines, chestnuts and myrtle. By the way, the island is not really part of France; rather, it was acquired by the French government when they won various battles. So much for the history, Corsica Island belongs to the territory of the sea of Tyrrhenia some where in Mediterranean. It is not as small as I thought it is because the Corsican people proudly told me that their island is among the three large ones in the Mediterranean with a total area of 8,682 square kilometers. The latest demography, according to the city municipality, is 275 000.

On the lighter side, the weather in Corsica is fairly tolerable. It feels like summer and autumn all year round. There are times when the wind prevails, while there are also rainy days. I observed that the mountains in Corsica divide the island in two regions. Fortunately, I am on the southern part where it is colder. Generally, Corsica experience long summer days. It is a pity that I did see the snow fall there.

I found the French version of the great Italian Riviera in Nice. The place sound nice, really. It showcases spectacular sights with landscapes, hotels, museums, and so much more. Nice stretches along the Angels Bay, and is highly inhabited.

I have been to the promenade called Anglais. It is a walking path at the seaside. The Angels Bay provides the most serene atmosphere for anyone who walks the seaside. Along the way, I saw the Negresco, a hotel with a pink dome. They say the hotel is a historic monument. It is just annoying that people tried to feed me with all the historical facts about Nice. I have been hearing the stories from all parts of the city. But, I was interested with the art treasures. No wonder why painters and poets got inspired from Nice. The whole place is enchanted. It is like walking in paradise. The museums there exhibit the most precious art collections of Nice.

I felt gratified by the warm welcome of Nice people. I was even made to join them in a casual banquet in one of the finest dining places in the city. Unfortunately, that was my last day of stay in Nice. I spent the night in the beach while contemplating on my next trip. However, from Nice, I will just have to take the train to take me other French cities. In the end, I could say that my trip to Nice is simply unforgettable.

The mass youth protest that took place in France almost a month ago has captured the attention of news papers all over the world. I happen to watch the actual footages one night on a documentary shown on television. The scenes were horrible. The youth are persistent and are fighting against all odds. I am already past my youth days, but I can still feel the effect of such labor law to them. There is something in their insistence that calls for an urgent action by the government.

I was relieved, though not entirely, when I heard about the news on the replacement of the law by President Chirac. Actually, it will not be absolutely replaced, but a section of it. If I am not mistaken, the law deals with the age bracket of employees to be hired. Unfortunately, the bracket did not include the youth, and immediately they are subject to be fired from their jobs two years after the lifting of the law. The reason behind these is that the government, initially, would want the single parents and unemployed older people to have the opportunity to work and earn money for their families. I think this is a good notion, but the government failed to realize that a larger portion of the workforce consists of youth.

The replacement of the said section dealt with equal opportunity. It merely stated that employers will be subsidized in order for them to be able to hire young workers. But, take note, these people are aged 18 to 25. Add to that the qualification that they must be unemployed or out-of-school youth. This replacement did not, of course, appeal to the youth sector. I am sure they will once again fill the streets for another employment law protest.

It is such a pity that I have not yet been to Disney Paris, while all my friends have already gone there. God knows how I wanted to go there. I know I am old enough for fancy rides, but no matter what you say, I am still a child at heart!

Well, if you also are lamenting over being unable to visit Disney Park, all I can share with you is some information about it. Located at the heart of our beloved Paris, the park opened to the public in April of 1992. I am sure you still remember what happened that time. The park was literally sabotaged and the staffs were compelled to quit their jobs all because of the strict rules implemented by the managers. Anyhow, I felt really bad when the park raised the prices for its admission. We all know that businesses in France must cope with French market, so Disney had no choice but raise the prices. This, in turn, resulted to a terrible financial loss. Also, rumors spread that Disney Paris will have to close.

But, the rumors remained as rumors. In no time, the park finally re-opened and has already fixed admission costs, thus inviting more people to come and experience the Disney World adventure. What I am really after Disney Paris, aside from the rides and parades are cafe areas that feature stage shows performed by various artists who incredibly portray Disney characters. Also, I am dying to see the movies in the park cinemas. Oh, before I forget, I would love to tour over the fantasyland and see lovely princesses.

One amazing thing about France is the language. There are so many food terms that are adapted from the French language. The reason behind this is that the language captures the true meaning of the recipe and one French word already identifies the ingredients.

Once, I got hold of a cook book with a chapter dedicated to French cuisines. I love seafood dishes so I searched for one. I found Sea Fricassee that requires the following ingredients:

8 scallops
250 grams salmon fillets
250 grams doversole fillets
9 ounces sour cream
10 ounces white wine
2 carrotts
40 grams butter
4 tablespoons olive oil
salt
pepper

The fillets must be cut into strips, while the scallops must be cut thickwise. The butter and olive oil will be used for frying the scallops and fillets. On the other hand, the carrots must be grated and sauted with the wine for fifteen minutes. In follows the cream while simmering everything in five minutes. Afterwards, the scallops and fillets can be added to the sauce. In five minutes or less, the Sea Fricasee is already set for serving. It sure looks simple to prepare, but requires time. Anyway, for a more beautiful presentation, I suggest that boiled or steamed potatoes be used as side dish.

France has a long line of monarchs. The rich history of Frankish government has come down to us in fairytales and legends. However, one thing is sure about the royalties: there is an account of their kingdoms. Although their descendants could not be retraced, and no one knows if their bloodlines have completely perished, the stories of their kingdoms still linger in history.

On October 6, 1773, a king named Louis-Philippe was born. He ascended to the thrown on 1830. He ruled for eighteen years. His nobility has been sharpened by the various battles he fought and won. Louis-Philippe became a duke at the tender age of sixteen. He participated in wars and by the end of 1790 he became a colonel, thus commanded an Army. At age eighteen, as lieutenant-general, he led a victorious battalion in Jemappes.

He married Maria Amelia, a princess and daughter to Ferdinand IV, king of Palermo, in 1807. He had eight equally noble sons and daughters. Though his family has always been his priority, he managed to deal with his responsibility without leaving them behind. His power and ardor in protecting the kingdom did not interfere with his personal life.

I have always been fascinated by world history and peoples of France. The monumental events that took place in France truly left a deep mark in our world history. It is unbelievable that its power has extended to neighboring countries and contributed a lot in helping developing nations strengthen their political powers.

One of the most famous names, yet seldom mentioned, is Cardinal Richelieu. A native of Paris, he was baptized Armand Jean du Plessis. The boy, then, being exceptionally ingenious, was compelled to study theology piously. Not long after, he was officially appointed as Bishop at age thirty-seven. Since then, Armand was known as Richelieu, the name he adapted from the estate of his ancestry. Even before his appointment, Richelieu has already exhibited a great and unbeatable talent in political analysis. His principles and reasoning can overturn any other politicians during his time. Impressed by his capabilities, the government gladly welcomed him as the Prime Minister.

Although a man of faith, he considered to be true that the monarch is the principal promoter of societal order and peace. His conviction about politics gave the Roman Catholic Church a minimal practical participation in politics. Richelieu supposed that the government is the principal thing and that the church is tasked to help in the promotion of the policies. But, his resistance was threatened by a group of Protestants who threatened the kingdom of France and disabled Richelieu to continue functioning as Minister. However, being a man of strong convictions, and left with no other choice, he was forced to use his powers in fighting the enemies of the government and formed a new set of officials. During his time, France has become the most powerful nation in Europe. His inclination to arts contributed to the flourishing of the visual and literary arts of France. He ruled for a short period of time, but he died leaving France a very strong government and rich humanity.

Spending the Holy Week in France is an exciting experience. Indeed, it is one of the most visited countries in the world because of its historical and religious destinations. Who doesn't know the Eiffel Tower in Paris? It is one of the top destinations of couples. And of course, The Grotto in Lourdes is also a famous attraction in France.

Lourdes is located in the Southwest of the department of Hautes-Pyrenees. It houses 15,043 people. Each year, Lourdes is accepting more than five million people from different parts of the world. Lourdes was recognized as a Marian City, since Bernadette Soubirious saw the apparition on February 11, 1858 in the River Gave. That was the first apparition, and more followed.

Until today, Lourdes is the one of the busiest cities in the world. Especially during Holy Week, the city is occupied by Catholic and non-Catholic people. With over 270 business establishments, and several hotels around, Lourdes is one of the memorable places in France. One can enjoy the travel to the Grotto of Lourdes by starting at the base of the mountains to Pyreness.

The history of France is enchanting and mythical. Here, the kings and queens reigned. A tour in France will prove how magnificent and huge the castles in the fairy tales are. Also, there are mysterious, haunted, and sacred monasteries, churches, and landmarks in France. Among the most dubious, yet eagerly researched and continuously being proven and debated are the secrets of Rennes Le Chateau.

In the southern most part of France, there lies a wide landscape that showcases the enigmatic past of the French religion. The place is suspected to be hiding a treasure that will reveal the secrets of the Christian Church, and will cause banishment of the Roman Catholic Church. The relics and archeological discoveries in Rennes Le Chateau have been documented and tested for authenticity. The whole area of the Chateau is considered as a perfect geometrical platform that, if and only if, people will try to understand, the place is a big jigsaw puzzle of secrets and treasures.

It is said that the last king of the Merovingians reigned in here, and before he died he hid the most precious secret somewhere in the mountains or valleys of the Chateau. This treasure could only be located using the geometrical patterns. To this date, no one has confirmed the real mystery behind the deafening silence and peace of this hidden paradise of France.

Paris is among the beautiful European cities endowed with so many monumental attractions. Anyone who has stepped into it and who has knowledge of its map knows how well its historical monuments are strategically built and located across the city. Some of the best spots in Paris though are not found in strategic positions. Such is true with Saint Chapelle.

Saint Chapelle lies partially hidden by the much bigger and wider structure of the grand Palais of Justice on the Ile de la Cite. I had already noticed its long towering spires during the time I passed by the place on my way to Notre Dame. Outside, the chapel appeared like the other common gothic churches. I must say it seemed less appealing to me at first due to its smaller size and partially concealed structure. But you need to go inside the chapel in order to witness for yourself why the sacred place is considered as one of Paris' best.

Saint Chapelle is the pride of the French capital not only because of its gothic architecture, but primarily because of its stained glass windows. Who could ever think that a dull and towering structure such as Saint Chapelle transforms itself into a colorfully vibrant and tall wall of stained glass windows once you step inside? But it's true and I am glad I saw the place before I left Paris.

War of religion is everywhere, this is because of the fact that people have different beliefs and sometimes they cannot avoid arguing on which religion is perfect. There are people who are claiming that their religion is the best because it ensures that they will be saved when the so-called "end" will come. Today this is the nature of religious wars. Not so intense compared to what they experienced in the ancient times.

France has wonderful tourist attractions but behind this is a dark past because it experienced tragic war of religions or Huguenot war. This stemmed with the desire of the Protestants to acquire freedom to establish their religion. They also claimed for equal rights of power. They believed that their leaders during those times were siding with the Catholics.

The conflict started three civil wars which resulted to the killings of many Huguenots. The war only ended when Francis of Alencon sided with the Huguenots. When the Edict of Beaulieu was ratified, the freedom to worship any religion was granted to the whole of France excluding Paris. Protestantism was established and the religious wars were concluded when the Edict of Nantes was ratified.

France is a country that is very popular to many travelers because of its natural beauty. There are many tourists' spots that the French people are very proud of, like the city of Paris. There are many places you could go when you visit France but it would not be complete if you do not taste their delectable local delicacies like the Grilled Salmon with green mayonnaise. But if you want to prepare it in your home, here's how.

Ingredients
4 steaks of salmon, at least 1 inch thick
pepper and salt
green Mayonnaise
1 cup of spinach, packed firmly
1/2 cup of watercress, packed firmly
1/2 cup of parsley, packed lightly
1/4 cup of taragon, packed lightly
1/4 cup sour cream
2 cups of your chosen mayonnaise

Procedure:
Salmon Preparation
1. Put small amount of oil in the grill rack then preheat.
2. Remove the scales of salmon if there is any, rinse and let it dry.
3. Season the sides of the salmon with pepper and salt then grill.
4. Grill it for at least 4 minutes each side.
5. To test if the fish is already cooked, get a skewer and insert to the part of salmon that is thick. Pull it out and touch. The fish is cooked if the skewer is hot.
6. Put it to a platter but keep it warm.

Mayonnaise Preparation
1. Wash thoroughly all the vegetables. Drop in the pot with water that is boiling and let it cook for at least 3 minutes.
2. After 3 minutes rinse the vegetables in cold water. Dry them and finely chop.
3. Mix them with the sour cream then puree into the blender.
4. Mix the mayonnaise with the puree

So if you cannot go to France, bring it home by grilling the French way. This French food is ideal for various outings and campings.

Have you ever wondered about the Notre Dame where 'Hunchback' came from? The Notre Dame had its construction on 1160, and it took a century to complete. Its real name is La Cathedral de Notre Dame de Paris or Cathedral of Our Lady of Paris. It is built in honor of the Blessed Mary, mother of Jesus. The Notre Dame contains twenty-eight statues that represent the Judaen and Israeili monarchy, and can hold six thousand church goers. It invites thousands of worshippers every year.

A bishop named Maurice de Sully was responsible for the idea of creating such huge cathedral. He was able to motivate the people of France, and using his ability, was able to collect funds for the said project. As soon as the construction has been completed, the Catholic Church held management of the grand cathedral. But, in the 1900's, France owned Notre Dame after its official separation from the Roman Church. Pilgrims, Christians or otherwise, are welcome in Notre Dame. Unfortunately, wedding ceremonies are not allowed in Notre Dame. The Church emphasized that marriage rites must be done in parishes in local cities and not in cathedrals.

France started the bridal tradition of trousseau. Trousseau means bundle, referring to clothes and possessions of the bride's family which she is going to take and share to her husband. In the small towns of France, the groom picks his bride in their house and escorts the bride to the wedding. Children put white ribbons across their path and the lady cuts the ribbon as they walk to the aisle. The couple sits in velvet chairs in the church.

At the reception area, the newlywed use a cup for toasting. Actually it is in this country that the "toast" was originated. Another wedding tradition is the beheading of champagne using a sabre. This was begun to show the skills of the horsemen. The French legend says, usually the horsemen celebrate their victories with champagne. Since then, it has become a part of every French's special celebration -- like weddings.

For a boisterous wedding, the traditions are still followed but the celebration continues until midnight. The guests make noise by banging pans and pots outside the window of the couple until they are again called inside for more drinks to honor the couple.

Marie Josephe Rose Tascher de la Pagerie was born on June 23, 1763, in Martinique. She carried the name de Beauharnais when she married to Alexandre Vicomte de Beauharnais in 1779, an army officer of France. But, in 1794 he was killed by guillotine in Reign of Terror. Alexandre Vicomte gave Josephine three children.

When she became a widow, she engaged in several affairs with well-known political personalities of that period, until she encountered the famous General Napoleon Bonaparte. He proposed a marriage in 1796. Josephine was recognized and crowned as an Empress of France by Napoleon Bonaparte in Notre-Dame, but greatly opposed by his family, particularly his mother.

When Napoleon was not able to give a child to Josephine, they both agreed to divorce, so Napoleon could marry again and have a child to follow him. They divorced on January 10, 1810 under the Napoleonic Code. After the separation, Josephine transferred and lived at Chateau de Malmaison. In 1814, Josephine died and buried at the St. Pierre and St. Paul church, Rueil. Hortense de Beauharnais is buried near her tomb.

Forty-three years have passed since the Friendship Treaty between France and the German republic. The two European Union nations have been fighting each other for almost a thousand years, until an agreement was made in 1963 in Paris between the two cooperating countries that put an end to their conflict. Both nations' government made a very strong pact that resulted in a powerful bonding of each country's culture.

The economic stability and the high social status of the two cooperating countries became the basis for the high recognition regarded to them by other European nations and neighboring countries as well. The peoples have been closely connected through student exchange programs and city relations, German-French companionship, meetings in the professional circle, sports and education, and intermarriages. Today, Germany and France are the world leaders in technology, science, and arts. The treaty, truly, is a shared destiny which has developed over the years and which has turned out to be very necessary within the framework of European construction. Both countries agree completely to harmonize their positions as closely as possible to find a peaceful solution to any political crisis. The dream of having a friendly relationship between the two countries has been achieved at last.

For the French, cooking is considered an art. French haute cuisine (gourmet cooking) has set a standard that is followed in many parts of the world since the 1700’s. French chefs have produced many delectable appetizers. Some French appetizers include the famous escargot in garlic butter sauce, scallops and mushroom in a creamy wine sauce, and puff pastries filled with chicken in cream soup. Sausages and pates are also served as appetizers. Goose liver pate with truffles is considered an exquisite delicacy.

Sometimes, cooks put fillings of cheese, vegetables, shrimp, ham or bacon into omelettes, crepes, and quiches. Other French specialties include the bouillabaisse and cassoulet. These are sometimes treated as full meals. Bouillabaisse is a chunky fish soup with six or more kinds of fish and shellfish.

Cassoulet is a casserole of beans, sausage, poultry, and pork. A typical French meal has several courses, starting with the appetizer. Popular main courses are steaks, chops, and roast chicken served with potatoes. A fresh green salad usually follows the main course. To finish the meal, pastries, tarts, or crepes filled with whipped cream are served as the dessert.

Once, the 14th Dalai Lama came to the Buddhist Monastery of Karma Ling in Arvillard, France where the first Spiritual United Nations or S.U.N was held. During the week-long event, His Holiness gave a series of teachings on the Noble truths of Buddha. Peoples gathered under a tent to listen to His lectures, sacred doctrines, which focused on explaining to the peoples how they, being ordinary persons, can become a Buddha.

Realize that 'existence' is the central theme of Buddhism. Existence is analyzed through the Noble truths that consists of discourses on suffering, its meaning, origin, cessation, and the ways that lead to its cessation. A person who willingly undergoes the process of realization will soon develop a very strong faith in Buddha and will have a deep compassion towards other people, thus achieving an eminent soul.

The Dalai Lama's visit to France only proves that Buddhism is by far one of the oldest religions in the world alongside the Hinduism of India and Christianism and Islamism of Asia. The said event was witnessed by indigenous peoples' leaders all around the globe. They aimed in forming a circle of religious and spiritual leaders that will provide them recognition and the opportunity to meet with other leaders and discuss issues concerning faith. Truly, this dream has come true.