If you have always dreamed of retiring in a foreign country, why not France? France offers an amazing mix of beautiful scenery, cultural sites and activities, red wine and plenty of other goings-on to keep you content and entertained in your later years when you earned the opportunity to enjoy your life. And while its true that you probably won't retire to France to save money, you may find that life in France offers you just what you are looking for. There are so many unexpected wonders in France and if you can cope with not being in the centre of a city you may find you can afford even the most expensive city in France, Paris. Bordeaux, although once regarded as conservative, bourgeois and unforgivably dull city has undergone a dramatic revamp of the Quays and includes a great new tramway system which totally improves the city and has instilled a fresh jeoux de vivre. Bordeaux is often referred to as "little Paris" as it has a similar architectural style and aesthetic. Of course, in Bordeaux, there is always the exceptional wines. The French themselves have rated Lyon as one of the best places to live in France. It is three hours from the coast and yet has a plethora of delightful restaurants which is like a "Foodies heaven". It boasts some 2000 restaurants, 17 of which are Michelin starred. If you don't always like to dine out there are also many outdoor markets which host an exceptional variety and quality of fresh produce. Rennes, Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany. This vibrant city is a hub of culture, packed full of art galleries, museums and theatre's to entertain residents and visitors alike. The city is split into two parts, the old town and the new town which are separated by the beautiful Vilaine River. The old city is steeped in history with stunning architecture dating back to before the 18th century. The city is popular with ex-pats both old and young and with a thriving economy, there are many job opportunities available in the area. Another suggestion which I read about on a AARP site was the Languedoc-Roussillon region in the Southwest. Languedoc-Roussillon includes Nîmes, with its Roman ruins; the bustling city of Montpellier; and the stylish town of Perpignan, with its shops and plazas. Once remote, the region is now just three hours from the bright lights of Paris via high-speed train to Montpellier. It is steeped in history, with medieval towns and castles, ancient olive trees and vineyards. Besides offering plentiful museums, festivals, and concerts, it is also a destination for the outdoor crowd, who hike in its rocky, picturesque hills and beachcomb along its lovely Mediterranean seashore.
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The Thai language, with its rich history and unique characteristics, offers a captivating linguistic tapestry. As the official language of Thailand, it holds a special place in the hearts of its people. In this blog post, we will delve into the intriguing realm of the Thai language and explore five fascinating facts that make it a subject of curiosity and admiration. 1. Tonal Language: Thai is a tonal language, meaning that the pitch or tone in which a word is pronounced can change its meaning. With five distinct tones, including high, mid, low, falling, and rising, mastering the correct tones is crucial for effective communication. The subtle variations in pitch give Thai its musical quality and pose an exciting challenge for language learners. 2. Longest Place Name: The Thai language is home to one of the world's longest place names. Located in central Thailand, the full name of Bangkok's famous temple is "Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan". This tongue-twisting name showcases the Thai language's propensity for compounding words and its ability to convey detailed descriptions within a single term. 3. Unique Alphabet: The Thai alphabet, known as "Thai script" or "Tua Tham" consists of 44 consonants, 15 vowel symbols, and various diacritics. What makes it truly unique is that it is an abugida script, which means that each character represents a syllable rather than a single sound. The beautifully curving and looping characters add an aesthetic charm to the Thai written language. 4. Polite Linguistic Features: Politeness is deeply ingrained in Thai culture, and it is reflected in the language itself. Thai has a range of honorific words and expressions to show respect to different social hierarchies and age groups. Additionally, the use of "krub"; for men and "ka" for women at the end of sentences is a common way to convey politeness and courtesy. 5. Sanskrit Influence: The Thai language has been significantly influenced by Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. Many Thai words and phrases have their roots in Sanskrit, especially those related to religion, art, and literature. This influence has enriched the Thai vocabulary and added a layer of cultural interconnectedness between Thailand and the Indian subcontinent. The Thai language captivates with its tonal intricacies, unique alphabet, polite linguistic features, and Sanskrit influences. Exploring the Thai language opens a window into the vibrant culture and history of Thailand. Whether you are planning a trip to the Land of Smiles or simply fascinated by languages, delving into the fascinating world of Thai will undoubtedly broaden your linguistic horizons and deepen your appreciation for this remarkable language.
The Middle Eastern Arabic speaking countries are fast becoming tourist hubs. In the past, destinations such as Doha in Qatar and Dubai in the UAE have been seen as places for business, but they are now attracting fun lovers. Speaking Arabic can make your vacation to Arabic speaking countries special, and achieve the feeling as if you have just been upgraded. Tourists, whether entering Arabic speaking countries purely for pleasure, or on the back of an extended business trip, are made to feel very welcome by Arabs. Hospitality comes naturally to an Arab and is extended liberally, generously and lovingly, even more so when Arabic is spoken. One of the biggest tourist attractions, particularly in Qatar and the UAE, must surely be the markets. The markets come to life when the scorching Middle Eastern sun goes down, and every human sense is nudged and woken up like never before. Spices and the smell of coffee often fill the air and locals sit and relax as the hustle and bustle flows around them. Sitting down and taking in the atmosphere with locals, feels almost rude if you cannot speak Arabic. A few words here and there will help, but a full grasp of the language will open up a world of stories, fascinating people and a culture steeped in history. Blending in with language is something many tourists do not understand, but for those who take their travel seriously, language and speaking it is what makes the vacation a true vacation. In the markets, haggling is a way of life. Locals haggle over bales of hay, next to feeding donkeys and maybe camels next door, to a market stall selling tourist trinkets and gifts. Nothing it seems has an actual price tag; everything is negotiable. Haggling in English is ok, but if you want to take it seriously, speaking the native Arabic will quite likely get you a better deal. Many Arab nations are proud of their heritage, culture, and Muslim faith. These elements of the Arab world are perhaps what create the great mystery that seems to flow like smoke around the Arab world. Arab countries may well be small, but there is a lot of magical mystery that many tourists are hungry to discover, language opens up the possibilities. Getting beyond the tourist hub is challenging. The hotels and amenities are designed to attract tourists and release an abundance of enjoyment and relaxation. However, there is more to an Arab country than luxury hotels. In true Lawrence of Arabia style, with language, you can begin to explore, and dare to go further. Camel rides in the desert are touristy, but getting to know those who own and keep the Camels, is something few tourists are able to do. Speaking Arabic changes the whole experience, respect is shown and your touristy thing again feels upgraded. The Arab world beckons the tourists from all over the planet. Speaking Arabic opens up a host of opportunities and possibilities that will turn an average vacation into something magical… who knows, if you speak Arabic you make be able to make a carpet fly!
Although the capital city of Thailand is known to the world as Bangkok, local people refer to it as Krung Thep but this is just a shortened version of the actual name which consists of 169 characters and makes for a challenging tongue twister after a few drinks. The full name is: Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahinthara Yutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udom Ratchaniwet Mahasathan Amonphiman Awatansathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukamprasit.
This roughly translates to: City of angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of the nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces, home of gods incarnate, erected by Visvakarman at Indra's behest. Just a little Thai trivia :) As I witnessed it for the first time as a young teenager, I remember thinking:" I wonder how it all started and why are they doing it?" If you travel in France and happen to visit the south, or the "Midi" as we call it, take the time to make a stop in Sète, a charming little port city 30 km west of Montpellier in Languedoc-Roussillon. Like many French cities, Sète has a rich and ancient history. I won't do here a presentation about the long cultural journey and origin of this city, but rather tell you about one of the numerous original local customs you can stumble upon while visiting the different regions of France. From the middle of June to early September you can witness, on the main canal of Sète, the sport of "water jousting". These "Joutes de Sète" are pretty much part of the city life during the summer and culminate on the 25th of August for the "Joutes de la Saint Louis", this is the unofficial world championship of this original sport. Probably introduced by the ancient Greeks a few centuries BC, or even by the Egyptians before that, this activity is part of the identity not only of the town, but also all of the Mediterranean coastal cities, and was officially started as a competition in 1666 to mark the birth of the port of Sète. People from Sète take these tournaments very seriously and the banks of the canal and the terraces of cafés and restaurants are packed with locals and tourists cheering for their champions. While sipping a local rosé, and enjoying the deliciously fresh seafood or the "tielle Sètoise" (spicy octopus pie) to the sound of local fanfares, it is a very fun and unique experience to witness and be part of this noisy, festive and truly original cultural event. And most of all, it represents what I truly love about France: Each region, city, village has their own traditions, food, local history and dialects, making France an incredible mosaic of cultures and creating this very rich and ever surprising experience whenever you travel across the country. From Marseille to Brest, from Agen to Strasbourg, from Sète to Lille, a succession of historical, cultural, and culinary delights await, so, outside the mainstream touristic attractions for a true French experience, it is always necessary to take your time, do what the locals do, and enjoy the hidden regional treasures.
Nicolas Poisson, VLLC Tutor extraordinaire! Latin languages are a group of languages derived from Latin, the language of the Roman Empire. Spanish, Italian, and French are three of the most widely spoken Latin languages today. Here are some things you should know about the 3 most common Latin languages:
1. Spanish: Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world, with over 500 million speakers worldwide. It is the official language of 21 countries, including Spain, Mexico, and most of Central and South America. With over 100,000 words in its vocabulary, making it one of the largest languages in the world. It is the only language that uses the letter "ñ", pronounced as a soft "n." 2. Italian: Italian is the closest living language to Latin and is considered the most "pure" of all the Romance languages. A smaller alphabet than English, Italian only uses 21 letters, excluding j, k, w, x, and y. For English speakers and native speakers of other Latin languages, many Italian words are familiar as it has influenced the formation of English, Spanish and French. Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, and the Italian language is considered the language of art, music, and cuisine. 3. French: French is spoken by over 300 million people worldwide, and it is an official language in 29 countries. It is often called the "language of love" because of its romantic sound and the connotations of cities like Paris, known alternatively as the "City of Love." While beautiful to learn and listen to, French has a complex grammatical structure, with many irregular verbs and noun-gender agreements. French is the second-most studied language in the world, after English. In conclusion, Latin languages, including Spanish, Italian, and French, are rich in history, culture, and linguistic complexity. They have influenced and been influenced by other languages, making them an important part of our global linguistic heritage. Whether you're interested in travel, literature, or communication, learning a Latin language can open up a world of possibilities. Traveling is a great way to experience new cultures and expand your horizons. However, when you travel to a foreign country, language barriers can often be a major obstacle. That’s why it is beneficial to learn a language before you travel. Here are some of the reasons why:
In conclusion, learning a language before you travel can enhance your travel experience in many ways. It can help you connect with locals, navigate with ease, experience the culture more deeply, avoid miscommunications, and show respect. So, if you’re planning a trip abroad, consider taking the time to learn some of the local language before you go. Contact Vocational Language Learning Centre.
The Netherlands, also known as Holland, is a small but diverse country located in northwestern Europe. With its picturesque windmills, colorful tulip fields, and iconic cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, The Netherlands is a popular tourist destination for people all over the world. Here are some travel tips to help make your trip to The Netherlands a success: 1. Get around by bike: The Netherlands is known for its bike-friendly culture, and cycling is a great way to see the country and get around its cities. Many cities have bike rental services, so you can easily rent a bike and explore on your own.
2. Take a canal tour in Amsterdam: Amsterdam is famous for its canals, and taking a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are several different tour options available, including guided tours and self-guided boat rentals. 3. Visit the tulip fields: If you visit The Netherlands during the spring, be sure to take a trip to the tulip fields. There are several different tulip fields throughout the country, but the most famous are located near Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse. 4. Explore the Dutch countryside: The Netherlands is not just about cities – the countryside is full of scenic landscapes, charming villages, and unique attractions like windmills and cheese farms. Take a day trip to explore the rural areas and get a taste of the authentic Dutch culture. 5. Try Dutch cuisine: Dutch cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), and poffertjes (mini pancakes) being popular staples. Make sure to try some of these traditional dishes while you're in The Netherlands. In conclusion, The Netherlands is a unique and fascinating country that is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime. The history of Valentine’s Day and the story of its patron saint–is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. Leaning to say I love you in another language can be an exciting experience, as it opens your mind to new adventures and possibilities. I have found a rendition of the story of Valentine's Day. Have a read and see whether you think this is it! According to https://www.olrl.org/lives/valentine.shtml The story of Valentine's Day begins in the third century with an oppressive Roman emperor and a humble Christian Martyr. The emperor was Claudius II. The Christian was Valentinus.
Claudius had ordered all Romans to worship twelve gods, and had made it a crime punishable by death to associate with Christians. But Valentinus was dedicated to the ideals of Christ; not even the threat of death could keep him from practicing his beliefs. He was arrested and imprisoned. During the last weeks of Valentinus's life a remarkable thing happened. Seeing that he was a man of learning, the jailer asked whether his daughter, Julia, might be brought to Valentinus for lessons. She had been blind since birth. Julia was a pretty young girl with a quick mind. Valentinus read stories of Rome's history to her. He described the world of nature to her. He taught her arithmetic and told her about God. She saw the world through his eyes, trusted his wisdom, and found comfort in his quiet strength. "Valentinus, does God really hear our prayers?" Julia asked one day. "Yes, my child, He hears each one." "Do you know what I pray for every morning and every night? I pray that I might see. I want so much to see everything you've told me about!" "God does what is best for us if we will only believe in Him," Valentinus said. "Oh, Valentinus, I do believe! I do!" She knelt and grasped his hand. They sat quietly together, each praying. Suddenly there was a brilliant light in the prison cell. Radiant, Julia screamed, "Valentinus, I can see! I can see!" "Praise be to God!" Valentinus exclaimed, and he knelt in prayer. On the eve of his death Valentinus wrote a last note to Julia, urging her to stay close to God. He signed it, "From your Valentine." His sentence was carried out the next day, February 14, 270 A.D., near a gate that was later named Porta Valentini in his memory. He was buried at what is now the Church of Praxedes in Rome. It is said that Julia planted a pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol of abiding love and friendship. On each February 14, Saint Valentine's Day, messages of affection, love, and devotion are exchanged around the world." With January placing the popular European destinations in mid-winter, this time of year draws many tourists across the world to tropical destinations. Known for its sun, beaches and mouth-watering street food, Indonesia has something for everyone. While Australians in particular tend to flock to Bali, there is much more of the country to be discovered. For Art and History Lovers: If you are a lover of all things culture, you cannot look past Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital. Replete with some of the country’s best museums and historical architecture, this city should be top priority for the cultural tourist. The Museum Nasional is a must-see, boasting vast collections of information and artefacts from Indonesia’s cultural and archaeological history. For classical art lovers, the Museum MACAN displays various local and international collections of modern and contemporary art. Outside of museum walls, there are various walking tours of Jakarta Old Town with its colonial monuments and architecture. The city also has some impressive religious sites, including The Grand Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Cathedral. Outside of Jakarta, the 8th century Buddhist temple, Borobudur, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an essential visit for tourists. For the Outdoor Adventurers: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park is a collection of several islands where visitors may snorkel, hike or canoe – its standout attraction though is its many Komodo dragons. More of Indonesia’s diverse animals can be found in Ubud, Bali where tourists can find the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Aside from many monkeys, the forest contains several Hindu temples, constructed as early as 1350. Indonesia is home to some of the world’s most active volcanoes. One of these is Mount Bromo which, despite being known for erupting, is a beautiful destination for the brave tourist. Lake Toba is another stunning destination, and another volcanic wonder of Indonesia. The body of water sits in the crater formed by an ancient eruption and the location still regularly features volcanic activity. For the Foodies:
Indonesian cuisine is famously mouth-watering. In all of the country’s major cities, there are a range of culinary experiences and walking street-food tours. The best thing about Indonesia for foodies though is that you never need to look far for a delicious feed. Indonesia is full of incredible sights, adventures, cultures and cuisines, and there is no shortage of activities to satisfy every kind of tourist. Written by Amy Galliford References: 2022, ‘The most essential places to visit in Indonesia’, Lonely Planet, 21 April. Hynes, C & Law, M 2022, ‘18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Indonesia’, Planet Aware, 27 October. |
AboutTravelling is an exciting opportunity which can be enhanced by learning the language before you go. This blog contains some interesting articles about language and travel. Archives
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