Monthly Archives: July 2008

Tomorrow, 17-year old Hadrien is starting a 1,200km walk across France, together with travel companion Camomille, an 18-month old cow. Since cows are not used to walking long distances, the duo will limit their daily distances to 20km, and have … Continue reading →

The French are feeling the squeeze: 42% of them are not going on holiday this summer. In 2005, the number was still below 30%. One in two blame it on reduced spending power. Hotel reservations are down, and restaurateurs see … Continue reading →

I’m probably prejudiced, but I’m not sure I would fancy this: French makers of gourmet ice cream Philippe Faur have added a new dimension to their high-quality line up of products. Latest in the range are foie gras ice cream, … Continue reading →

After daddy Nicolas and stepmoms Cecilia and Carla, the first Baby Sarko becomes a cover boy: Sarkozy’s second-youngest son Jean decorates the cover of L’Optimum magazine, out 22 August. Jean, the youngest political animal in the family, claims “I’m not … Continue reading →

Links for Thursday 31 July 2008: Mass cover up: Topless sunbathing goes out of fashion on French beaches Mutilating 90 women: French plastic surgeon ‘Dr Death’ on the run No buyers: Giscard d’Estaing a victim of chateau slump Taming the … Continue reading →

In 1800, Napoleon Bonaparte and his army crossed the Alps, through the Great Saint-Bernard Pass, on their way to fight the Austrians. French artist Jacques-Louis David painted the general no less than five times. But nobody knew that dozens of … Continue reading →

Since marrying French president Nicolas Sarkozy, in February 2008, former supermodel Carla Bruni-Sarkozy has toned down not only her husband’s image but also her own, stepping out in stylish but demure suits, slacks, and knee-length dresses. Lest we forget that … Continue reading →

Le Figaro has started a series about public enemies in French history. The opening article deals with Jules Bonnot, a French illegalist famous for his involvement in a criminal anarchist organization dubbed “The Bonnot Gang” by the French press. He … Continue reading →

Links for Wednesday 30 July 2008: “Improper treatment” UN report criticises French human rights record Good customers: Sarkozy’s Closures of Military Bases Bring Pain to French Towns False alarm this time: 100 employees of French nuclear site evacuated But the … Continue reading →

Everybody knows the pictures of people pretending to hold the leaning tower of Pisa. This is an original vintage variation, shot in a different place (click for bigger): I have no idea how old this photo is and who made … Continue reading →

Charmingly unacceptable papercraft from days that are far behind us: Via Agence Eureka

I never knew of this condition, which affects only French people. From Wikipedia: Dromomania, also called travelling fugue, is a psychological condition in which people spontaneously depart their routine, travel long distances and take up different identities and occupations. Months … Continue reading →

The Guardian finds out how the head gardener at the Palace of Versailles is defying traditionalists and dragging the magnificent grounds into the 21st century. Read the story | Don’t miss the picture gallery

Links for Tuesday 29 July 2008: Only living Cagot: The last untouchable in Europe After Velib success: Paris eyes plan for drivers to share electric cars The worst is yet to come: Gloom sets in for French consumers and industry … Continue reading →

If you’re looking for a bed scene with Nicolas and Carla this is probably the closest you’ll ever get: This month’s Vanity Fair dedicates the cover and no less than six pages to Carla and her man. Read it here. … Continue reading →