This French Christmas character, the ‘whipping father’, said to accompany Santa on his rounds on 6th December, is fortunately no longer heard of much in French tradition.
Trees used to be festively decorated with red apples until a drought in 1858 destroyed the apple harvest.
Lord Guillaume de Cabestany was a troubadour, soldier, poet, and lover of Saurimonde, wife of Raimond de Castell-Rossello and subject of many of his poems
Over one hundred years ago, Rudyard Kipling and his wife arrived in Vernet-les-Bains…
Did you know that you can complain online about problems with post and parcel delivery services, telephone etc…?
Originally named Paladdanum, meaning ‘Dan’s Palace’, Palalda is a pretty medieval pedestrian-only village with bar, 10th century church and a sprinkling of artists/craftspeople
Did you know that the croissant, firmly associated with France, actually originated in Austria?
A whole host of interesting facts about the region and further afield for your reading pleasure. So, did you know…?
Edith Piaf, national treasure, in a different light.
If you’re planning a holiday in the Pyrénées-Orientales in 2023, (or long term planning for the future), do bear in mind the dates of the numerous ‘jours fériés’ (bank holidays) during which some or all shops and businesses may be closed.