Since returning from France, I’ve continued to study the language. I have a weekly skype lesson with a fabulous instructor from L’instutute, use this workbook for homework and listen to audio lessons on my zune like this one I downloaded from Audible {does anyone else still use a zune??}. It’s amazing how these recordings help me to really grasp phraseology, words and pronunciation. They are a perfect form of entertainment while doing tedious tasks or for a distraction when one can’t sleep at night.
The fact that St. Barths is a French outpost was an added bonus for me, because I was able to practice my french on a daily basis. But this island wasn’t always french, at one point in time is was run by the Swedes, which is why the main port town is called Gustavia after King Gustaf III. Hints of the history are revealed in the street signs and the architecture.
I love this aged canvas sign at one of our favorite restaurants, Bonito. This restaurant has a beautiful view of the lights and bay below. The fresh seafood, and especially the ceviche is fantastic, but what I liked most was the ambiance. This place looks and feels like a cross between an airy lighthouse and an extremely charming and stylish beach cottage. As we were finishing dinner, the music beat was building, and I’d guess it turns in to a fun after-dinner party spot, but my sailors needed a good nights rest. I highly recommend you take a tour by clicking on the name above, I think you’ll love it. If you are travelling to St. Barths during the busy season, be sure to book this dinner in advance.
Sky blue and red is such a classic, fresh, beachy color combination and has always been one of my favorites. I just couldn’t resist snapping a shot of this distinctive shopping cart when we walked down to the the market in Gustavia on our first full day.
I was doubly delighted to roll my pretty cart into the market and find it well stocked with an abundance of the French delicacies and wines I became used to buying while living in the SoF.
Is it just me, or does graffiti just look better when it is in French??
Do you speak a 2nd language? What do you use to keep improving your skills?
Bonjour Emily! I must have missed a few posts as I did not realize you had left Southern France… Welcome back! You made the most of your time "sur la cote" it sounds like 😉 Thank you for all the great stories and photos you shared with us over the last few months. I was no surprised to hear you had enjoyed studying at l'Institut Francais in Villefranche. I have sent many students to that school, and they have all loved the time they spent at l'Institut. You also met Rosa Jackson in Nic as I recall. I once rented a small studio she used to own at the top her building. Small world! Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)
Veronique, I did a cooking class with Rosa, and it was wonderful. Did your apartment have a view of that church? That was so beautiful. She also gave us a great tour of the back streets of the Nice market.
I need to organize a NW food bloggers get together, you, Red Ticking, I Dream of, Barbara… who else? Isn't PVE local??
Would love to meet you. xo ebh
Love the signs, and that cart is too cute!! I am convinced that everything in St. Barths is better and more beautiful!
Tina, is it just the sunshine? I don't think so, It it an enchanting place, on many different levels. bon weekend. xo, ebh