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Show Notes
In this episode, Louise reflects on her recent stay on the enchanting French Riviera, sharing her thoughts on the etiquette, lifestyle, and cultural richness of this picturesque region. Discover unique observations, from the warmth of local greetings to the timeless elegance of French dining. Join us as we journey through the refined customs and captivating ambiance of the Riviera.
1. Charming French Riviera Hospitality
Louise describes the exceptional hospitality encountered throughout her trip, particularly in the quieter, post-summer season. Locals were warm and inviting, often reciprocating her courtesy. She highlights the importance of saying “Bonjour” upon entering shops or restaurants as a simple yet vital gesture of good manners that immediately fosters connection.
2. The Importance of Respectful Greetings
In France, greetings go beyond a simple “bonjour”. Louise shares her experience with the “cheek touch” customary in the South of France, typically done three times. For those unsure, she suggests a friendly nod and eye contact as respectful alternatives, which are equally appreciated by the French.
3. Dining Etiquette and Culinary Highlights
Dining in the Riviera is both a cultural experience and a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. Louise enjoyed traditional dishes like bouillabaisse, known for being served in two parts (soup and seafood), as well as sole meunière, a French Riviera classic. She describes how servers present the whole fish with a touch of ceremony, enhancing the seaside dining experience.
4. Fresh Seafood: A Culinary Treat
The Riviera’s access to fresh, seafood, straight from the Mediterranean, impressed Louise, particularly compared to the snap frozen while fresh, seafood often served in Australia. Her standout dish was a perfect spaghetti alle vongole, learned from a local chef, which she offers to share with listeners.
5. Villefranche-sur-Mer: A Village of Personal Connections
Having frequented Villefranche-sur-Mer since 2013, Louise describes the village as “her own.” The relaxed atmosphere contrasts with the more formal settings of larger cities like Paris, creating a welcoming environment where connections with locals feel natural and genuine.
6. Subtle Fashion and Style at the Monaco Yacht Show
Louise also reflects on fashion seen at the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show, where understated elegance was the rule. With “boaty chic” style on display, her partner wore a classic Panama hat with a reefer jacket, capturing the polished yet relaxed Riviera aesthetic. Louise wore a linen dress with a hat by Australian milliner Lorna Murray. Easy Ssip on shoes were required as footwear is no allowed on the luxury boats.
7. Language Immersion: A Path to Cultural Understanding
Louise recounts her transformative experience studying French at a language immersion program in Villefranche-sur-Mer. The immersive method fostered linguistic and cultural understanding, leaving a lasting impact on her ability to connect with locals and appreciate the nuances of French etiquette.
8. Navigating Seasonal Variations in Service
Louise addresses a common misconception that French service can seem aloof, suggesting that seasonal fatigue may be a factor, especially in tourism-heavy areas. She encourages empathy and kindness, which are usually reciprocated, even in the busiest periods.
Show Links:
Immersion Language School: Institut de Français
Anjuna Beach Club and Restaurant
To request Louise’s spaghetti alle vongole recipe, visit the contact page
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