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Visit to France 2024.
Although we were only quite a small group this year, having several (very well-behaved) children in the group for the first time for several years was great, and our French friends certainly made us all feel very welcome. On our first full day, since, this year we are commemorating the D Day landings, they took us to Ouistreham (Sword Beach). There we visited a museum which, though quite small, had a very informative and very moving display. Knowing that it all happened just there, somehow added an extra dimension to the experience. Following an excellent lunch we went on to Pegasus Bridge, where we learnt more about the progress of our troops (including some French commandos) as they moved inland, and saw lots of outdoor exhibits including a glider, an exact replica of those used in the landing. Altogether an unforgettable experience. The rest of the visit was more light-hearted. A free day with our hosts saw visits to seaside resorts, the forest, a castle, and lots of swimming pool activity among the younger participants. That evening we were privileged to join in with about 200 of the local people in their annual gala evening to celebrate St Christopher. A couscous meal, with all the typically French extras, was served in the village hall with music and dancing. Although some of us older ones gave in at about midnight, some of the children enjoyed this rare opportunity to be allowed to stop up and dance in the small hours. On our final day, after a visit to a local artisanal brewery (tasting included, of course) we all went to the large garden of one of our hosts and passed the rest of the day in beautiful sunshine, with music, conversation and an amazing meal prepared by our hosts. Starters were served around two o’clock, and food was appearing every so often until we went back to our hosts at about nine, to pack our bags for a departure in the morning. |
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