John's house

A winter in Paris, prequel...

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sat, 21 Dec 2013 21:19:00 +0000

At the origin of this blog were two texts that I sent to Marina already almost 3 years ago. One is called "Les faux pas" and is today the most widely read text of this blog. Yet, another text which prompted Marina to encourage me to continue writing was a small story about the Christmas spirit and the atmosphere in Paris during this time of the year. It's a bit the genesis of everything that has been developed in this space for exchange and sharing. Then, here it is:

Snow, fir trees, skating rinks and regional recipes... Everything is done to put the Parisians in a festive atmosphere. I often say that the best time to visit Paris is Summer, but the city is just as beautiful during Winter, despite the cloudy sky. Indeed, log cabins, ice sculptures, tobogganing or ice skating rinks in altitude have been installed in various locations throughout the city.

The Parisians, but also tourists, can slide on the first floor of the Eiffel tower, at 57m high, on an ice rink installed for the occasion. The success of this attraction makes many people wait in the long winter wind. Fortunately, another outdoor rink is open, free to the public, directly in front of City Hall.

A multitude of replicas of the finest monuments in the world (Mount St-Michel, Montmartre, Big Ben...) were conducted with hundreds of tons of ice. They are also exposed on the Champs-Elysees where is held at the same time the traditional Christmas market. Actually, more than a dozen Christmas markets appear throughout the city to celebrate the holidays. For a gourmet break and warm up with mulled wine. After Paris Plage, here is Paris Mountain! Furthermore, you can also enjoy the great wheel of the Place de la Concorde, just down the Champs-Elysees. Or the huge tree, more than 20m high, sitting in front of Notre Dame. With all the street decorations and shop windows, Paris deserves its nickname of "City of Light".

However, snow falls in abundance and the city can also turn into a nightmare for traffic. Parisians don't seem to really know how to manage this kind of situation, which brings real mess sometimes. Especially since this winter is one of the coldest we've ever known in recent decades.

Who would have thought that this little description of a moment of life have led me to write many more. I thought that today was a good time to expose this story and thus put an end to the blog. As we say in French : "la boucle est bouclée" (we have come full circle). Some say I'm crazy to stop, quitting now while the blog has never been so read is absurd. However, it's been a while that I'm fighting against the fear of the blank page, that my desire to write seems to disappear more and more. Sometimes it's useless to go against nature or turn a blind eye.

Therefore, no tears or regrets. But a big thank you to Marina, without whom none of this would have happened. A special thank you to my friend and sister Renata, who joined me along the way and helped me give life to the blog. A thank you to all of you who took some time to read my adventures, my thoughts, who could stand my humor or witty remarks sometimes. Thank you to all those who have inspired me and led me to reflect and develop my vision of the world.

However, I won't completly lock the door so I can open it one day if destiny guides me here again. Is life not full of surprises? And, Renata will contribute for a last time to this blog with a coming next article about Xmas in Cracow. Then, keep an eye on the next time online!

Paris

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 21:04:00 +0000

Paris où les boîtes de nuit dansent toute la nuit

Paris où les lumières s'allument le soir

Paris couvert de pollution

Paris l'endroit du shopping

Paris bruyant

Paris magnifique

Paris où la tour Eiffel brille la nuit

J'espère te revoir dans ce monde de foule où la nuit brille de mille feux le soir

Et où ton sourire rayonnera de milles éclats

Rendant à la cité son nom de ville-lumière.

Keep on fighting

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 08:31:00 +0000

Here is a text that I wrote for one of my friends who was sick a few years ago. It was nothing serious (just a cold) but she sounded so much in pain that I tried to give her some comfort and rise her mood:

Peine et douleur vont bientôt s'évaporer,

Rendant à ton corps sa légendaire énergie.

Outrepassant les maux de la maladie, aidé par la

Médecine, tu seras très vite à nouveau sur pieds.

Pour l'instant, repos et soutien moral sont tes alliés.

Ta vigueur et ton courage seront récompensés quand tu seras

Rétabli, guéri, avec la santé pour meilleure amie.

En ce moment, toutes mes pensées t'accompagnent dans

Ton combat incessant contre la souffrance.

Amour, réconfort et quelques vitamines sont le cocktail gagnant !

Bravant la maladie avec courage, tu sortiras vainqueur.

Le jour et la nuit, je suis à tes côtés pour t'apporter mon

Indestructible soutien. Tu n'es pas seul dans ce combat !

Souhaitant du plus profond de mon coeur te voir bientôt

Sautillant, courant, riant en pleine santé, et pétillant de vie.

En toi, tu possèdes les capacités pour te battre et vaincre,

Mettant au tapis les virus et autres bactéries.

Etonnantes sont tes grandes forces intérieures !

Ne baisse jamais les bras car souviens-toi que tu peux tout surmonter.

Ton bien-être est si important pour moi ! Je te souhaite un prompt rétablissement.

Pain and sorrow will soon evaporate,

Restoring your body's legendary energy.

Bypassing the evils of disease, aided by the

Medicine, you will be very quickly on your feet again.

For now, rest and emotional support are your allies.

Your strength and your courage will be rewarded when you're

Restored and healed.

At this moment all my thoughts are with you in

Your ongoing struggle against suffering.

Love, comfort and some vitamins are a winning combination!

Braving the disease with courage, you will be victorious.

Day and night I'm by your side to bring you my

Indestructible support. You're not alone in this fight!

Wishing the very depths of my heart to see you soon

Jumping, running, laughing in full health, and sparkling with life.

In you, you possess the capacity to fight and conquer,

Beating the viruses and other bacteria.

Wonderful must be your greatest inner strengths!

Never give up because you have to remember that you will always overcome it.

Your well-being is so important to me! I wish you a quick recovery.

Happy birthday

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 14 Nov 2013 18:29:00 +0000

A few days ago, Sonya, a friend of mine, sent a very nice and funny little poem. Actually, it did inspire me afterwards. Indeed, every time your friends and acquaintances celebrate their birthday, you try to find lovely, funny or original words. But, it's often a challenge and not easy to do. And most of the time, the result is only something plain and classic. Therefore, here are some words that could be adequate for such an occasion:

Happy birthday! Enjoy this day and don’t eat too much cake without me,

The best way to enjoy your Birthday each year is to keep getting more gifts but never remember your age.

Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest.

Amazing that you were once a helpless little child, but now you're a giant helpless person! Have fun blowing out all the candles on your cake!

I wish to send thousands words to you... But I'll reduce them only in 3 magical words! WHERE’S THE PARTY??? And what did you think? Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to you! May your troubles be as few and far between as my grandmother's teeth!

Wishing your Facebook wall is filled with wishes from people you have never met!

May all your birthday wish come true.

From Cracow with love

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sun, 08 Sep 2013 11:08:00 +0000

This summer was an opportunity to discover a new country, Poland (Polska). I still remember with what enthusiasm I jumped on the plane, how excited I was to set foot in this remote and totally unknown country. And so, what fun I had to finally visit my dear accomplice of this blog, Renata. You should know that Eastern or central Europeans (the geographical position of Poland on the European continent seems to be a sensitive topic) have mindsets that are closer to us than Asian people, but their ethnocultural roots distinguish them from Latin and Anglo-Saxons. The Polish is defined as a Slavic person.

So, in the heatwave of the end of July, it was destination Cracow. Known as the episcopal seat of Karol Wojtyla before his accession to the papacy and become John Paul II, the city is considered as one of the most beautiful in Europe. It is in fact one of the first cities to join the List of World Heritage Site in 1978, with its historic center. With its 756,000 inhabitants, Cracow is now the second largest city of the country. Also located on the banks of the Vistula river, it was the capital from 1040 until 1596. It remains today the "cultural and intellectual heart" of Poland. Some would say that having seen Cracow before Warsaw, I might find the latter less beautiful if I have the opportunity to return to Poland. But I'm sure I still have a lot to do, a lot of attractions to find here and there: beautiful historic monuments, colorful facades, beautiful parks...

But the Grand-Market Square of Cracow, Wow! What a nice place. The historic city center is an outstanding example of medieval architecture. Around the market square, the largest in Europe after St. Mark's Square in Venice, there are many palaces, churches, well-preserved historic homes.

And what animation! In addition to traditional souvenir shops, there is in this place dozens of stalls selling various products, handicrafts and "tourist trap." There are also clownish characters, with their shows, trying to attract attention and a few coins, not to mention the horse drivers that are around the place, looking for customers.

The whole creates a unique atmosphere where many people come to stroll while chatting with friends, meeting over a beer in one of the many cafes that are around the place. This is a very touristy town where you hear a multitude of languages and sometimes even a little too French. I wondered during some short moments if I really left Paris. Fortunately, that feeling was short-lived.

Near the Grand-Place market, do not forget to especially visit the Wawel Royal Castle, a typical Renaissance building overlooking the Vistula. Its blend of architecture and interior wealth will not leave you indifferent. You will discover several exhibitions, including a very impressive: the Armory. Inside the castle is also the Cathedral, a Gothic monument built around the year 1000.

Also, the Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364 and considered like the Sorbonne in Poland attracts students from everywhere including overseas and it gives the city an air of youth. This university counts among its former, Nicolas Copernicus and Pope John Paul II.

Moreover, another part of the city with terraced cafes atmosphere seem to be trendy: Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter. In addition to its historical significance, it is now an area rich in art galleries, cafes and restaurants galleries.

Also around the city, you could schedule a visit to Auchswitz-Birkenau camp. Too heavy emotionally for me to try. So, on the advice of Renata's father, I pulled on a visit to another historic site but completely different: the Wieliczka salt mine, which is apparently "one of the most amazing trips" of Europe.

Located about 10 kms from the city, this place is part of the UNESCO heritage and is really amazing. Well, you'll certainly not visit this place more than once, but to come to Cracow and to ignore it would be a sort of aberration. The mine tour allows you to see the first 135 meters underground on the existing 300. Therefore, refrain claustrophobic! The descent through hundreds of steps and vision of this depth are rather impressive. You will have to descent patiently and go down, down, down again without seeing the end. Rest assured, for the return, an elevator ascends to the surface in no time! We then visited many rooms in galleries divided along 2 kms.

Since its inception in 1772, these rooms are the result of the extraction of salt. They were carved to give sets that are difficult to believe that they are so deep underground and they were created with so little technical instruments during that time. The most spectacular achievement is undoubtedly the Chapel of St. Kinga.

From floor to ceiling, everything is made entirely of salt. On the walls, you'll then see sculptures, reliefs, statues.

The city of Cracow is small but it has an obvious charm. The sunshine was more than present and I took colors. Those who know me never believe me when I tell them that, and yet... In conclusion, those days have finally seemed very short to discover the soul of a nation. Maybe we'll try to say a word about it in a next article. A country can not be explained, neither a city, a street, a park and so on. It can be written if needed. At best, it is photographed, but mostly it is lived. Usually, they say that you have to leave to have a better return. I hate this feeling at the highest point, when you feel that what you enjoyed will not happen again. Not never again, but not before some (long) time. Because we don't know when, because there's a damn question mark on the next date. But for sure, I'll be back!

A trip with Russians

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 12:52:00 +0000

Several weeks ago, I decided to live a first and unusual experiment: make a mini European tour by bus. Actually, the craziest thing was to do it with a group of Russians while I do not speak a word of the language. Yes, either I'm a little crazy or a real adventurer. But, the truth was my Russian friend wanted to spend her last vacation in Europe and it was a chance to enjoy it together.

I will not here paint a postcard of the various places visited, but I will point out the cultural differences that I faced. Indeed, the language barrier and the fruit of this experience favoring the observation of these rather special beings.

This was however not the first time I hung out with Russians. I even made a short trip to Moscow in the past (see "A Stranger in Moscow"). But, I soon forgot something that still remains: to live with them requires determination, flexibility, an open mind and lots of patience. So, I joined this group of Russian tourists when they arrive in Paris for an adventure that would take me to the coast of French Riviera, Florence-Rome-Venice in Italy, and finally back to Paris from Vienna in Austria. A journey of almost two full weeks of memories, unusual and informative experience for a French intruder.

Naturally, this group of about thirty people was surprised to see a young French, not speaking their language, come and share this experience with them. Who would not? So I was aware of and prepare for two things :

- don't expect them to smile at you. It is not customary to talk or smile at strangers, so don't interpret this behavior as coldness or unfriendliness.

- don’t hesitate to open your soul to them. You will then be acknowledged and considered as part of the group.

Think American tourists and many would answer: loud, overweight, doesn’t speak any language other than English and totally ignorant, excluding information that he or she picked up in a Lonely Planet guide.

Think Japanese tourists and many would say: loaded with the latest models of the most expensive photographic equipment to take smiling pictures everywhere; almost always travels in large groups.

So how does a Russian tourist behave? And why do they keep fueling bad images of their countries by behaving inappropriately abroad?

Actually, over the past few years, holidays abroad have become more accessible for more and more Russian tourists. This has increased the flow of tourists from Russia who visited Europe for the first time (even if their main destinations still remained in Turkey and Egypt) without knowing how to behave. So, it raised a lot of different stereotypes :

- They often say that the Russian tourist is arrogant. Russians also never apologize when they push you on the street or in public transport. You are lucky if you are not yelled at instead.

- Russians don't usually say "please" or "thank you".

- One more feature of Russians is eternal discontent. You can recognize a Russian tourist everywhere by the bored and unsatisfied expression. They like to keep their stoic Slavic facade.

- When they say they are from Russia, people say two things: 'It's cold, and you've got bears.' One could then respond: 'Look, I know everything about your country. Perhaps you should try and find out a bit about mine.' " Or, is it only a myth within a myth: Russians believe that Americans believe that bears walk the streets in Moscow, but this myth of a myth might be a purely Russian invention. Americans actually believe all the bears in Russia are dead.

- You could also hear stories about Russians calling to book a hotel, but the manager refused to give them a room when he realized they are from Russia.

Fortunately, I didn’t feel or experience any of these bad stereotypes during the trip with my group. Also, having a Russian friend at my side contributed greatly to my adoption by the group. Verbal exchanges were unfortunately very brief because few of them spoke English. Nevertheless, I was able to make friends with a charming young couple and chat regularly with two to three other people who could speak the language of Shakespeare. Therefore, the first observation: apart from the young generation, don’t expect Russians to speak English.

When you hear two Russians speak on the phone, you often feel that they’re fighting because they talk so loud or abruptly. But they are not. And, there is a thing I need to confess: like many other French people, I’m sometimes late. French people are never late, they're just nearly on time. It’s only after 15 minutes that it can be notified as being late. While visiting the city of Florence, I once took a wrong way and we got lost, my Russian friend and I, at the time of returning to our bus. So, we were really running late. Here is the second observation: Russians may not hesitate to criticize any of your mistakes, whether small or big. And, it’s done openly and clearly. Even the most patient of you will test this lack of tact or diplomacy.

Another thing I had ever seen before and that has been confirmed. French men, whether traveling as a couple or with friends, don’t hesitate to leave their girlfriends/wives to choose and decide what to do or where to go. Is it pure laziness not to be the only one responsible for any wrong choice or is it because French women always look for a certain parity in the absence of equality? Russian women are a bit different. The third observation: with Russian families and couples, the man should always know how to decide. He must be strong or have character. In short, being reassuring such a pillar. This is why some Russian women find French men too effeminate. Moreover, some Russian men are convinced that feminism has led to the collapse of the West, and Russia's historical mission: resist.

Nevertheless, French people have the image of intelligent persons. But, if they can’t answer many questions on places or objects that are supposed to be familiar to them but in which they absolutely pay none attention, they are quickly considered as ignorant, like someone who ultimately doesn’t reach the scholar image. A lack of interest or confidence can then be easily seen. The fourth observation: are Russians really more demanding towards people who do not share the same culture?

Russian tourists, meanwhile, complain that they are often treated as second-class citizens. They concede that Russians like drinking but say their ubiquitous national reputation for drunkenness is undeserved. "There are stereotypes about Russians which are caused by a few oligarchs and have nothing to do with how the vast majority behave," said one of them. Sharing snacks and drinks with some of the people of the group at night was one of the best and more pleasant moment of the trip. So, taking the time to chat, always learning more about their culture, smiling at their funniness, feeling their kindness through the thoughtful gestures despite the barrier of language. Fifth observation : they naturally and constantly pour you a drink, so you can’t have an empty glass. Although Russian people make toasts with practically every sip of a drink, they usually say a unique toast every time. If you want to make a toast with them, stick with "За Вас!" (Za vas!), which means « To you » and is very acceptable. You may miss drinking with Russians.

Only a child and a teenager were part of our group during this European trip. And some came with their grand-parents. Sixth observatory : through this and previous experiments, I liked the fact that kids are a natural part of everyone’s life, rather than a special, perfectly-planned project. Family is something so much important with Russians compared to the individualism of some occidental countries.

The end of my trip was a moment of excuse to take a picture with the whole group. Actually, many wanted to have a picture of the group, so it lasted a while but it was quite fun. All along this travel, some may have hated foreigners, but others were very welcoming. Some may have been closed and afraid, but others were very friendly, open and curious. Will I ever travel again like that ? That’s not sure because it’s quite tiring. Will I ever travel with Slavic ? Here is my last thought : as long as we succeed to talk, I think I’ve become strong and comprehensive enough to continue and suffer a bit more among some of them. Russians are also extremely emotional and passionate, and although they don't show emotion in public, they can cry and laugh and shout and play more than Italians. Therefore, it's just all about respect and having a knowledge of basic etiquette wherever you are.

Accepter

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sun, 02 Jun 2013 22:51:00 +0000

Accepter l'inacceptable
Ne rien refuser de stable
Il vaut beaucoup mieux accepter
Que refuser et s'aveugler
Accepter, ce n'est pas renoncer
C'est fermer un livre quand la dernière page est tournée
C'est dire " J'ai appris et je suis plus fort " Et reconnaître ses raisons et ses torts
C'est faire la paix avec soi-même
Et aller où le destin nous mène
L'amour est souvent capricieux
Il fait souffrir et couler les yeux
Qu'on soit homme ou femme, ce n'est pas différent
La peine est universelle chez les adultes et les enfants
Nous passons tous par là
Ça nous prend quand on ne s'y attend pas
Le tout, c'est de ne pas se décourager
Et se dire qu'on a toute la vie et se relever.

Life is a struggle

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sun, 02 Jun 2013 17:17:00 +0000

"It has often been said that life is a struggle. What I didn't know is that it was against myself that I will fight."

A fight to find ourself, to be accepted, to digest our sufferings, to change attitudes, to accept ourself in the goal to accept others, to love healthily and constructively. A fight not to lie, to avoid to throw our frustrations on others, not to fall into hatred when we suffer, not to accept the intolerable, injustice, prejudice, fatalism, despair.

It's not uncommon that one moment of our life, we promise to do certain things in the future, we prohibit certain behaviors. The days pass, we grow up, we realize that everything is not black or white. Beyond the compromises made, the experience and the loss of a certain innocence, we sometimes wonder if we are always in line with our own and original values and aspirations. Who am I?The battle of life is a great fight, but so hard. We must reconcile existential quest, professional development, search for love, recognition. There are many obstacles, some people accumulate them but believe in your lucky star, some say, because the real fight is to be a good person, to be able to look in the mirror. When this battle is won, then happiness is available. But is it ever really since the questioning itself must accompany us throughout our lives without forgetting to liiiiive!

Fortunately, life is not only a battle. It can also be mild, the problems are meant to make us more human (if we have not succumbed to the dark side or cynicism in the process) and we can enjoy the small and daily joys. To fill with wonder of a sunny day or children's laughter, to have a coffee on a terrace daydreaming, enjoying ones friends .... Happiness is accessible to all when life leaves us alone, when it doesn't persist to put a spoke in the wheels and in loving yourself, being blown, giving to others, I think there is every chance to apply to happiness ("we learn to live, when we learn to give each other what we need..." as sang Paul McCartney and M.Jackson). Breathing is a gift we are given, to be healthy is the greatest gift, life is hard and a struggle, but a noble struggle in which we can't give up.

Abandon means ending, abandon all hope. Sometimes we'd like to drop everything. To cease worrying about anything. But this is an illusion or fear of failure. Responsibilities remain or new ones are born. Faced with a challenge, some are afraid to succeed, others are afraid to fail. Hence, renunciation or a stagnation which no one can be satisfied with. So, instead of thinking first about what could go wrong, we shall start thinking about what could go well! "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land amoung the stars... (Oscar Wilde)" That is why we say that life always smiles to those who are bold or go after their beliefs, dreams. And even if the final outcome is less radiant or not really a success, you have not given up but been strong enough to let go and accept the result.

Legends of Poland part 1.

noreply@blogger.com (Renata) — Wed, 15 May 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Golden duck

Once upon a time in the great Polish kingdom there lived a little boy named Kuba, earning a living as a cobbler in a small place in the center of Warsaw. No matter how hard he worked, however, he could never seem to scrape enough to get by. Every evening, leaving the workshop, he rested in an inn, listening to old tales.

One day an unfamilliar traveler came in. Bribed with a mug of ale, he told a fabulous story – the legend of a Golden Duck. Kuba was listening, enchanted. According to the myth a brave champion, if he knew where to look, could find a lake with a bird who would give him a splendid treasure.

All night, the boy mulled over the story, feeling strong enough to take on any quest. Come dawn, he went back and asked the old man to repeat the tale. Seeing the passion in the eyes of the young cobbler, the elder wanted to share all of his knowledge. He recounted the story, taking care to preserve even the smallest details, and adding in the end:

-They say the duck lives in the caverns under the Ostrogski’s palace near Tamka street. Even though until today no one has found the entry to the underground, I can feel you will at least try. Young man, I wish you good luck, for despite all my belief in your success you will sorely need it.

Every evening after this conversation, Kuba made his way to the Tamka street. He wandered around the palace, looking for the entrance to the dungeon. Finally his persistence was rewarded as he discovered a crack in a basement wall, opening into shadows. Gathering all his determination, he squeezed through, not caring about the tight fit. On the other side, he found himself facing a damp and completely dark corridor. Keeping a hand on the stones on his left, he descended, feeling the air getting more and more humid with every step.

As the passages grew narrow, the boy started to lose the hope that he would ever find the lake. He was freezing, drenched to the skin and hungry. Just as he started to think of turning back, he spied a delicate sheen in the distance.

Approaching, he saw a strange reflection on the wall. He followed the turn of the corridor and then he spotted the lake. It was small, but quite magnificent, the waters crystal-clear and transparent. Lights were dancing all around the cave. He has never seen this kind of illumination before. He couldn't discern the source of brightness until it dimmed a little and showed the silhouette of the duck, sitting in the middle of the pond.

She was luminous, her golden feathers sparkling, encrusted with diamonds. Her neck was adorned with rubies and emeralds, but what caught the eye the most was her golden crown, decorated with stones that shone with their own gentle glow.

The boy was so hypnotized by the variety of colours shining in the cave that he didn’t notice the duck swimming up to him.

-Be welcome, brave adventurer. I guess you came here seeking a treasure? – the duck said softly.

-Yes - uttered the boy, too stunned to say anything more.

-Then you shall have a chance at it. Firstly, though, you must complete a task. It is simple enough, but if you stray from it even a little, I won't be able to give you what you want.

-What should I do? - asked Kuba, eager.

-Here you have a thousand ducats. You have to spend them all in one day, and only on yourself. When you have used them all, up to the last penny, you should come back to me, and I will make you the richest man in the country - richer than the king.

Kuba took money, bowed and turned back to the exit. He found his way out in a daze, clutching tightly at the money.

Spending the money wasn’t difficult. He bought himself new clothes, ate and drank well in his favorite inn, and played dice all day long. As the dusk started to fall, he made his way leisurely towards the palace of the golden duck, already trifling away the promised fortune in his mind. Unexpectedly, just in front of the entrance he came across a beggar who asked him for change. The boy put his hand in his pocket, finding one forgotten penny. Without thinking, he gave it to the old man.

Suddenly, the duck appeared, hissing :

- You have broken your promise and forfeited your task. You will never have any of my treasure. Fool!

And she vanished into thin air, never to be seen again.

- It’s not true. – the beggar said. – You have a good heart. I promise you, you’ll be happy in your life.

by R.R.&G.

The French

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 22:00:00 +0000

The different exchanges, meetings that I have experienced, here and there, have often sparked my curiosity about how the Foreigners really see the French? A question with certainly a multitude of answers and that will necessarily bring to light cultural similarities and differences. All the different nationalities have in mind some stereotypes about the French but they don't grant the same importance to certain behaviors or rituals that characterize them.

First, you should know that there is a difference between Parisians and the rest of the French. Everything is a matter of nuances and historical facts. But, in order to simplify the vision of things, we won't dwell on their specificities and therefore we will not distinguish between these two populations.

When a stranger arrives in Paris, he's generally happy to be in the city of light and may say: "It is very beautiful here. You can feel culture and history through the majestic monuments and museums. There is entertainment everywhere and I can't wait to see accordionists and the Parisians in their daily life..."

Ah Paris, France ... what a dream, "quel enchantement"! But soon, reality takes over and a few surprises, good or bad, will enrich and spice up your journey. Then, here are some examples of how France and the French are viewed by foreigners through my little experience. Naturally, it is more fun to focus on the bad things. And, these will be enhanced with a subtle and subjective analysis.

1 They reproach, above all, our chauvinism, our tendency to believe that we are better, more cultivated than others. In short, a certain arrogance and snobbery. From the strict point of view of tourism, although the park hotel in the country is much higher in quantity and quality to that found in neighboring Italy or England, for example, our services and how to welcome our guests are not always live up to their expectations. The first criticism that they make is that we don't like to serve.

In shops, reception is sometimes chilly. In the terraces of our prestigious cafés, servers are not always friendly and helpful with tourists. In terms of transport, including taxis, the picture is not idyllic either. While most European countries have adopted flat fares for connections airports - city, tourists often feel - true or false - of being "trimballés" longer than necessary to inflate rates. Our subways are closing too early, usually around 1am. Paris is a city that has become excessively expensive when the night is a mere shadow of itself, a capital that doesn't resonate (more) party, such as Barcelona, Berlin...

The tourism business has never been the subject of a genuine public policy in France. However, tourism (hotels, cafes and restaurants, campgrounds, travel agencies, spas and ski resorts) employs 1.8 million people. They represent 6.4% of France's GDP and generate some 44 billion Euros in revenue. All that should be enough to display a wide smile, right?

2 Smile, let's talk about it. In the United States, for example, smile is a sign of politeness. I don't know if it is the same for the other French, but Parisians are well known to often pull a long face. The French don't consider that to be polite, you need to smile. They smile only when they really want to do it, not when it is expected. This explains why, for the French, some social conventions can be seen as hypocrites.

3 The French are often late. Indeed, do not expect people with whom you have an appointment to be on time. Punctuality is treated casually in France. Then, a delay of up to 15 minutes at a meeting between friends is generally tolerated. We say that we are not late but almost on time. However, punctuality is still required and even an obligation when it comes to going to work or business appointments.

4 For those that evoke France in terms of work, the majority of them think on the disputes, strikes, holidays. According to them, the French, when they are not on vacation, they are on strike. Moreover, we still have our RTT (additional days off) to recover from our weekly 35h of work. Fortunately, the foreigners recognize the skills of French and they don't see us as lazy as Spanish, Italian, or worse... the Greek! But, one should work for a living and enjoy life and not live to work. Some says that we are really lay back, others call it the French art de vivre.

5 Unfortunately, we French have a reputation that sticks to your skin like old dry dirt: we have a reputation for being dirty and don't wash every day. Indeed, you may meet dirty and smelly people every day, but no more than anywhere else. But this reputation is maintained by two things: the dog poop in the streets, and the Paris metro with its terrible smell. But, it's still a showcase for France, almost the first thing seen by foreign tourists. While in Chile, for example, the underground (French) in Santiago is beautiful, brand new, all clean and even when it's really crowded, it doesn't smell bad inside ... It is the same with the metro in Montreal built from French technology.

Some people find rather sexy the body smell. This cultural difference is relatively old. Henry IV, king of France (1553-1610) wrote to his mistress: "Madame, I will be with you in a week, do not take a bath anymore."

Today, it is quite unlikely to meet smelly French. If it happens to you, do not hang on it and try to hold your breath. For those who love to dive, this is an excellent exercise.

6 I pass on the reputation of French lover because it doesn't fit with the fact that we stink. And also, because I personally don't believe in being one. As it is more difficult to assess whether this is a deserved reputation or not (after all, I've never been seduced by a French lover, me...). However the famous French kiss, it works great!

Actually, I fear that the general vision about the French and scoped by the foreigners under such an angle is endless. The opinions may differ, change or enhance after one or more visits of the country and therefore exceed the images conveyed by movies, television, advertising, magazines...

Nevertheless, it is fun to compare a few points of view: for the Spanish, Italian and South American, we are rather cold and distant; for the Czech, Russian and Polish (at least those I met) we are too uninhibited; according Germans, we are trying to be too bright and that really complicates things when it would be easier to be clear and get to the point. The Dutch thinks we are terrible for speaking foreign languages and for the Belgian, we are too... French! More generally, many of us are very, very pretentious.

Looking back, trying to be objective, I'd say we're not so cold or unfriendly, but we know how to put some distance, often for the wrong reasons, like showing one's superiority. It's true that we love to show off, we are not pretentious - we are just French. France is the country of the Enlightenment, of Human Rights, the cultural exception... I think it comes from that time, of the Enlightenment, the 18th century when Paris was famous for its literary and philosophical salons. Since then, the French have not stopped "de se la péter" (fart higher than one's ass). Hence, the reputation to smell.

What a mix!

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:18:00 +0000

Just for fun, let’s go on a linguistic adventure. As you will know, English is a language which owes its origins to many other languages, foremost of which are Norse, Germanic and French sources, along with some Celtic additions.

This is why it’s such fun, and absorbingly interesting, to trace the origins of certain words and idiomatic phrases in today’s English. They give you a potted history of the language – and the country, to a certain extent.

Shall we start just across the Channel in France?

Clearly, there are many words which are identically spelt in both languages but you have to be careful; "sensible" in English means to be careful, or logical or commonsensical in your approach to things, but in French, "sensible" means sensitive in English – too easily hurt, or painful to the touch.

Far more interesting, to my mind, are curious rebounds – where a word has come from French in to English, been sent back and reappeared.

A few hundred years ago, the French nobility played a game with ball and bat. When the server was ready to hit the ball, he shouted Tenez! meaning be ready to respond! This came to England, but changed into tennis. And the word tennis in English crossed back to France as "le tennis". Players used to call the page boy to gather the ball by shouting service! And if a player scored no points they called l'œuf which means the or rather an egg. It came to English as love. They still use the French word deuce (deus in ancient French language)

A few hundred year ago, they borrowed the French phrase "double entendre" which literally meant hear double. It refers to a phrase or word which can be understood in two different ways; often the second meaning is risqué, which more or less translates as risky, but in English they use the French word risqué to suggest something rude, especially about sex.

"Double entendre" died out in French – we now say "double entente" but continues happily in English, probably because the English like that type of earthy humour. It’s not to everybody’s taste, but chacun a son goût, as they say, another borrowing from French, meaning we all have different tastes.

There are a thousand more examples, but here is a menu. As you know, menus are sometimes written in French in England, because they sound more tasty in French than in English. Frog’s Legs sounds fairly unpleasant in English but Cuisses de grenouille sounds gastronomically tempting – food for the gods! I gladly let you taste it…

People often laugh the idea of English cooking. There is a good reason for this – it used to be very bad. But those of you who have visited or live in the UK will see that cuisine there has improved remarkably – largely under foreign influences - and the national dish of GB now is surely curry or pizza or Chinese dishes, although fish and chips and roast beef are still of course very popular.

Here are phrases with the word French which are commonly used in English:

- French dressing - sauce for salad
- French leave (or to take French leave) - go absent without permission. The French use "filer à l’anglaise" meaning to slip away in English style!
- French dresser - type of open cupboard used to display ornaments - sorry, it’s not a French lady who helps you to dress, whatever you may have hoped.
- French beans - you eat the beans and the pod they are in.
- French kissing - using the tongue as well as the lips. So, of course, a French kiss.
- French letter - nothing postal. In fact, a condom (but this usage is now dated)
- French window - a full-length door with large glass windows

There are many others. But why don’t you find some for yourselves!

And for hundreds of years, they have imported French phrases and words into their language: Chic, haute couture, cuisine, terrine, par excellence…

Voilà! There you have it! French has played an enormously important part in the formation of English. Most of their legal, clerical and intellectual vocabulary derives from their friends (?) across the English Channel. Who would have believed it ?

A winter in Paris

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 22:10:00 +0000

Promises

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 13:38:00 +0000

Today, through the following verses, I continue to try to highlight the "palpable side of linguistic signs", in a rhythmic setting sound that is not always ideologically marked, but which is trying to keep the memory of things expressed, retain the symphonic smell of a look, the taste of a memory or the color of a smile. Thus, this suggestive work is dedicated to a person without whom this blog wouldn't exist. And yes, I succumbed to her obtination and will more than two years ago. Lately, a major event occurred in her life. Yet without changing the course of the life she had decided to take. Nevertheless, I wanted to offer her these few words (sorry for the approximative translation in English, after all I'm only French :-p):

Aimez-la sans compter,
Aimez-vous sans hésiter,
Et dites vous enfin oui,
À la folie et pour la vie.

Cette belle journée d'une vie,
C'est celle où l'on se dit oui,
Une douce poésie d'amour,
Qui chantera pour toujours.

C'est un merveilleux instant,
Le plus beau des sentiments,
Commencement d'une autre vie,
Ou l'on s'aime sans contrepartie.

Aimez-vous sans jamais oublier,
Vos belles promesses échangées,
Offrez-lui ainsi votre bon cœur,
Et portez très haut ses couleurs.

Elle sera, et fera tout pour vous,
Qu'on en devient même tout fou,
Protégez son âme, veillez sur sa vie,
À cette belle femme qui a eu votre oui.

Love her unconditionally,
Love each other without hesitation
And finally say yes,
Intensely and forever.

This beautiful day of life,
This is one where we say yes,
A sweet love poem,
That will sing forever.

It is a wonderful moment,
The most beautiful feelings,
The beginning of another life,
Where the love is absolute.

Do love and never forget
Your promises exchanged
Give him your good heart,
And support him strongly

She will be and will do everything for you,
That may even make us go mad
Protect her soul, keep her life safe,
To this beautiful woman who answered yes.

Her birthday

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 23:21:00 +0000

It was my girlfriend's birthday,
and I forgot about her gift.
I was worried she'd find out,
with punishment that's swift.

When I heard the door bell,
my sweat combined with stress.
Her reaction and disappointment,
I tried not to think nor guess.

It was way too late to drive,
to the flower shop or store.
I wished her happy birthday,
as I opened the front door.

I told her to sit down,
and simply just relax.
While thinking of a plan,
my brain was at its max.

Said I'll be right back,
as I ran into my room.
Quickly went online,
hoping to avoid my doom.

I ordered that weird looking,
purple and black purse.
Printed out a birthday card,
and added a sweet verse.

Gave her the freshly printed card,
with a hug and a long nice kiss.
She was more than happy,
I knew she was in bliss.

I tried my best to explain,
the purse will be a bit late.
She said that it's alright,
she doesn't mind to wait.

As I smiled in relief,
I woke up from this dream.
Realized it's her birthday,
and began to run and scream.

Bouquet

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 23:58:00 +0000

After the bouquet is thrown,

Get out of the danger zone,
Women will be going wild,
All of them just so beguiled.

They'll shove and pull and also fight,
They'll keep that bouquet in their sights,
They'll scratch and push with greatest force,
And all while smiling, of course.

All this just to be wed next,
Those who miss are truly vexed,
She who wins is full of glee,
But single men will start to flee!

Valentine's Day

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 23:06:00 +0000

Here I am, two years later, on a subject already treated with a lot of irony (A chronicle about Valentine's day). For this Valentine's Day, I will abandon my devil clothes and put on my angel costume. So, I can deliver a piece of advices. Guys, if you're looking for inspiration, think about this. Where would you be without your girlfriend? Have you ever tried sharing feelings with your buddies? They just don't get it, and they would laugh at you anyway. Be thankful that you have someone that you can be vulnerable with. Having a woman in your life is a gift. Your bodies fit together because your souls fit together and you're meant to be together. Say thank you to your girlfriend. Tell her how grateful you are that she’s in your life. May these following words and verses inspire you for a long time:

My heart

For this Valentine’s day,

I don't have much money,

No rings, or a car, or a special necklace,

What I instead decided to give you is something priceless,

It's something every girl wants,

No girl seems to find,

Money can't buy,

What some people call the meaning of life,

And what others say only God himself can award you.

What is this priceless treasure?

It's something I can't give any other girl in the world,

Something you cannot return,

And the only treasure you will have after you die.

When you see God at the gates to Heaven,

He will ask if you have found true love?

You will say no I didn't,

It is then he will look at you strangely,

You will ask what's wrong and he will say,

If you didn't find true love,

Then why do you have two hearts?

At this time you will remember,

That it was me who gave you,

My heart forever...

A new beginning...

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 22:29:00 +0000

Renata and I are ending our blog break by wishing you a traditional Happy New Year.

We wish you a 2013 full of large and small pleasures, full of love, tenderness, curiosity, laziness... actually full of everything you've always wanted. Thank you for reading / supporting / commenting in 2012.

For my part, I ask that 2013 just allows me to:
- Always have the ability to be amazed by simple things, these small joys that easily embellish your everyday life.
- Continue to discover new people, new things that enrich our knowledge and worldview.
- Be myself, to please myself and not the others. Anyway, if these people have taste, they can only love me. Otherwise, too bad for them :-p
- Add to this beautiful equation of happiness a little sport. I'm not in worship of my body, but it's simply not possible to have become so lazy))
- Try to make you still want to be here following us (me and Renata); we'll try to make this blog exist despite the inspiration or the time that sometimes lack. Moreover, you all are welcomed to join us and share your interests, ideas or stories. This virtual space can also generate real fun...

Moreover, according to the philosophy of Emily Dickinson: "We don't get older with one year to another, we renew every day."

Dragon Cup

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 15:23:00 +0000

On 13 and 14 October 2012 was held in Krakow, an exceptional event. For the fourth time, the team KrakUF organized a Dragon Cup tournament.

Probably many of you do not know the discipline called Ultimate Frisbee, so I will explain immediately what it is about.

1. First, you need a disc. But, not any. The ideal is a 175 grams disc produced by Discraft. The free disc that completes a product in the supermarket is too light and even a little wind won't let you play with it.

2. Afterwards, when you got a disc, you must complete a team. You need at least 7 people: 3 girls and 4 boys. But, this is a minimum. It's better to have more, for example 15 people to be able to make changes since the game is really tiring and it's difficult to play a game without any rest.

3. At the beginning, you throw the disc as you can. After that, with time and experience, you'll know how to use the backhand, forehand, etc. But, that's for later. The start point and important thing is to know where to throw the disc and catch it.

4. When you're able to throw and catch the disc, that means it's time to learn the rules.

I. We play on a field

II. The game starts after each point by a kick off: a shot from the goal line. Firstly, one player from each team raises his hand, indicating that his team is ready. As long as the kick off is not made, all players have to stay on the line of their in-goal area. The team that has scored the last point agrees and becomes the defensive team. The other team picks up the disc and becomes the offense.

We start here: and our opponents on the other side:

III. The objective is to score points by advancing the field by successive passes to the area of in-goal and to receive the disc.

IV. How? As in basketball, you have to stop when you catch the disc. And, make movements, search partners while remaining on position. It's very important to catch well the flying disc because when it falls to the ground or is intercepted (caught or grounded by a defender), the two teams immediately change role (attack/defense).
When you're in possession of the disc, you must play during the 10 seconds. A defender (called the "marker") can stand in front of you (remember: no physical contact!) and count aloud to ten.

If the disc is still in your hands when the "t" of "ten" is pronounced, the other team takes possession of the disc. At this point, if the opposing player catches the disc while being in your in-goal area, a point is scored and the teams switch sides.

V. And in winter? We also play during that time. not outside but indoors on a handball playground with fice players per team. Naturally, there are people who play outside, but... brrrrr

Dragon Cup 2012 is a tournament of type "HAT". That is to say that you register individually and teams are randomly drawn the night before the game or during the morning, just before games start. This tournament is mainly made to have fun; there is no pressure to win. It's a good opportunity to learn something new about other players and to play in the same team with people coming from other cities or countries. Traditionally, you get a t-shirt. Each team gets a different color set.

Now, it only remains for me to wish you a good game... and goodbye! I'll see you next year at Dragon Cup 2013!

Renata

A stranger in Moscow

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:44:00 +0000

Moscow is a destination that is off the beaten track. And, I just recently had the opportunity to go on a trip there and visit some friends. It was an exciting experience, especially because of the language barrier. Most people prefer to visit Moscow in the spring and summer months when cultural celebrations are taking place, and the weather is warmer, although Moscow’s winter scenery would create a beautiful scene to behold. During my stay, the summer was long gone and the weather was rainy most of the time and a bit cold. So, it wasn't the best season. Still, you may enjoy a lot of things and get a glance of the Russian culture and its peculiarities.

The capital of the Russian Federation, Moscow sounds frosty but this city is a blend of modern, soviet and traditional architecture. You may not know the name St Basil, but this Candy land-fantasy exterior of Russia’s most famous building is the sight most people associate with historical Moscow. Throw in the World Heritage sites of Red Square, the Kremlin and the Cathedral of Christ the Savior with numerous galleries and museums to Russia’s cultural past, then this city is a must for all those gagging to explore the promise of the East.

I could go on and develop a beautiful postcard of the city and inevitable places to visit. But, I didn't have the time to visit so much and other people may speak about all that much better than me, with more details or expertise. Here, I'll simply try and describe this Russia through the eyes of a French. A vision that will certainly be subjective and succinct, on all these little details that characterize Russians.

Moscow accommodation is famous for including some of the most expensive accommodation in the world. However, the average traveler will be delighted to know that accommodation varies from around €12 a night for basic youth hostel’s shared dorms to a shocking €15,000 a night for a suit the Ritz-Carlton’s Hotel. All the best and most sought after hotels are located in the centre of the city – most visitors want to be within ten minutes of Red Square, with prices getting cheaper over the river and to the north of the centre.

Moscow is immersed in the constant traffic jams, so don't even attempt to go over ground during the peak hours (8 to 11 am and 5 to 8 pm). The only good thing about the city's transport is the famous Moscow metro, which is very efficient, fast, and is so beautiful it could well be a museum. However, what looks scaring at first is that everything is only written in one language - Russian. You can't understand anything and fast feel lost. Thus, to meet this challenge, you have no other choice but to quickly learn and master a few letters of Cyrillic, to make your life in the station easier. Otherwise, you'll get the feeling of being trapped in a maze. Not very engaging!

Another strange thing about Moscow that instead of using the buses, you can hail any car on the street and it'll stop and give you a lift for money. Don't ask why it works – it's just a life-long tradition.

However, venturing at night out of the very center of Moscow seems to be more than dangerous for a tourist. Several Muscovites warned me about this.

Russian hospitality is undeniable; it is common to be invited by the Russians, and as a foreigner, not knowing what to do and what might offend your host! Even if the Russians are much more tolerant with foreigners, it is always better to do things according to the customs and traditions of the country. So I tried to identify some key rules to follow and some traditions.

First, it's good practice to bring something when you're invited: flowers, a bottle of wine, chocolates... as it is also commonly done in France. Then, when you got to the door, and of course you ring, you must then be careful to never shake hands with someone on the landing door. Wait to be inside to say hello to the people present. And, it is also imperative to remove your shoes, don't forget it!

Once inside, your host will usually offer you to sit at the table if you come for lunch or dinner, otherwise the host will propose to have a tea and it's rather rude to refuse. Of course you can ask for a coffee (especially in Moscow, where it is increasingly popular) or possibly a juice if you don't drink tea or coffee, but keep in mind that generally they drink tea. Yep, Anglo-Saxons are not the only ones to be fond of this beverage to that extent.

In case you come for a meal, you will find that all the "закуски" (snacks) are already on the table. These input of all kinds, whether it's sausage, cheese, salads, caviar (orange).... If you invite Russian home so be sure to bring all entries from the beginning. The hot dishes are usually brought one after another (soup then meat or fish). Regarding the cheese, it is always served as an appetizer, never between the dish and dessert as in France!

During the meal, you’ll realize soon enough that drinking alcohol can be a big part of it. The first rule to fulfill when you are with Russians is that someone has to give a toast each time the group drinks. And of course you must finish your drink! Also the tradition that when someone arrives late, he must drink a large glass of "penalty drink" bottoms up to keep up with the others! If you don’t want to drink alcohol it’s possible, but it should be from the beginning to the end. If you drink only for part of the toasts, there is a great risk that you will hurt the persons who did a toast where you didn’t drink. When a bottle is empty, do not leave it on the table and, it goes without saying, replace it with another!

Thus, if you're invited for a meal, expect that the host will feed you until you feel completely full and not capable of moving. If you think that's dangerous for your health, or you're on a diet, I advise you to emulate satiety, otherwise you will end up badly. Obviously, testing Russian specialties is a must. They don't lack originality and you will feel disorient for sure. Among them is the famous borscht (Russian pot-au-feu), shashlik but also the okrochka (a surprisingly refreshing dish). The vatrouchka meanwhile will make a great dessert typical of Russia. And so many more... I may now go more often to the Pushkin coffee shop at Printemps mall in Paris, and so succumb to a little pleasure)))

There are also other peculiarities that only Russians have and it's useful to know them. Otherwise you risk losing friends, getting shot, or having an argument. Below I tried to list some common traits of the Russian character and list some things that Russians love and hate. If you are lucky enough to meet a person whose character incorporates all of the items from the list below, I can assure you that this person possesses the pure Russian spirit and should be treated with high respect. If you decide to become a Russian, you can use the list below as guidelines:

• You mustn't, under any circumstances, wish a happy birthday to someone in advance, it means bad luck. So if one of your Russian friends has to celebrate his/her birthday tomorrow and you leave today for several days, do not call to wish in advance.

• If you go out and you come back into the house immediately, because you forgot something, you have to look in the mirror again.

• Some of Russians are naturally indifferent; they don’t care too much about dirt on the streets, saving money, the war in Tchechnya, breaking the rules, risking without particular reason, drinking too much...

• ... and most of them are very proud. Don't talk to them about their vices, they won't listen anyway. And don't dare to criticize the way their country is -- Russia is the best place and they will prove it to the whole world very soon.

• Some of them are quite emotional, but somehow it’s all kept inside most of the time. They may seem a bit cold and too much to themselves at first, but when you get to know them better, they're like a volcano.

• Women and old women are respected here. It’s considered polite if while being in the metro and seeing a woman or an old woman coming in and there are no free seats, man offers her his seat. In Paris, the metro is much noisier because we are undisciplined. In addition, if we see an old person, we prefer to pretend not to have seen him/her while saying to ourselves: "I'd rather die than leave my place - first come, first served"

• Beware of the babushkas (old women). They are active, pushy and very proud of themselves, so if you do something not the way they think you should have done, better disappear.

• Women don't put their handbags on the floor otherwise there will be no money.

• Russians learn English at school and many people can understand at least the basics, especially younger people. That's what I have been told before getting there. But, don't get your expectations too high. It was surprisingly difficult to find people speak English or they were too shy to speak to a stranger. Thus, they share something in common with French people ;-)

• A club is not a place to party - it's the place for the chosen ones. If you want to visit clubs, they have this thing called "dress code" where you might not be allowed because you wear Nike sneakers, old khakis or a fleece coat. However, the rules are more lax for foreigners, so if unsure about your appearance just speak English while you're passing the club's entrance, and you're guaranteed to get in.

Nightlife in Moscow is about being able to multitask – venues often double up or even triple up as a restaurant, nightclub and something else – be it bowling alley, casino or billiards club. As such the nightclubs often resemble multiplex style cinemas in the West, with owners keen to keep customers under one roof for all their entertainment needs – possibly to cater for the Muscovite reluctance to use the expensive city taxi service and therefore stay in one spot for the night. This concept was a real oddity.

Also, male travelers be warned – while Muscovite girls are very pretty and can come on strong… some may be more interested in your wallet than your charm!

Indeed, let's talk about Russian women. At the risk of this post becoming a raging stereotype fest, I’ll try and keep it general. The first point I guess to start with is the perception of Russian women, now depending on where you come from, your ideas may differ somewhat but the only way to really see what all the fuss is about is to actually get your ticket to Russia but for the mean time, below are some of the things I have noticed.

As dumb as it might seem, there are some pretty general things you can say about Russian women as a whole. The first and most obvious point to mention is that things in Russia are more on the traditional side which means, generally, you will be expected to pay, open doors and generally play the part of a gentleman. But, there are some girls that insist on paying for themselves.

Another thing with Russian women that always makes Western girls feel awkward is their way of dressing up. Most Russian women will not leave home without making sure they have done their makeup and look good. Also, they dress up too so you can expect the full works all the time. All the American and English women I have come across have complained about feeling underdressed, mainly because in comparison they are. Some Parisians (see the article "Be a real Parisian... Act II" on this blog) would consider as a faux-pas the way of dressing of some Russian women (tights that don't suit with the skirt, colors of clothes that don't fit quite well together or a test of originality that proves to be too risky...), see an attire that was meant to be sexy but would be, in France, considered as too close from women of easy virtue. But, apart from this difference of perception, erase a few points here or there and you’ll objectively realize that Russian women have definitely nothing to envy the French. Quite the contrary! But stereotypes are sometimes hard to overcome until you see for yourself the naked truth.

Therefore, visiting the city with Russians helped me discover and enjoy places without any stress. They have always supported and helped me to overcome all the difficulties inherent in Russia. The Russian hospitality must be part of stereotypes to convey! I’d say that people are much more direct than what we are used to, they don't feel offended if you don't hold them the door or being touched in the subway during the rush hours, this is normal and is not considered rude.

Moscow has been a very short but cool experience. I enjoyed its architecture, the mystique of some places that still prevails, its history and unusual places. I won’t miss how much Russians drink, but I will miss drinking with Russians. I will also miss some twisted, clever Russian sense of humor and of course, the company and warm welcome received. The time passed so quickly that it was already time to go home in Paris. But, I already want to come back to Russia, and one thing is for sure, I will!

If only...

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 15:35:00 +0000

Father,

One day, a woman walked into my life.

I hurt her deeply with the harshest words possible.

I pushed her away as much as I could

But, she still came back to me.

She is so much like me.

I look at myself often when I look at her.

She has the physical wounds that I have,

The tears that fill my brain are flowing through her heart as well.

I gave her those wounds, I made her cry.

I should not have met her.

I should not have allowed her to come into the life of a guy like me.

Father, I’m regretting it.

This is the first time…that I have ever regretted in my life.

Ah, these men...

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 19:59:00 +0000

For once, we will discuss a very serious and endless subject. This is about a being in who many seek perfection. This quest is certainly an illusion act, but yet the protagonists remain conscious about it. Hence a growing frustration when these women face the reality of things. Indeed, the man, human being easy to understand unlike its opposite, knows admirably how to cultivate his difference and go beyond the expectations of women. For better and mostly for worse! Thus, it is fun to try to establish some semblance of draft blacklist of male small defects that make women go crazy. Yes, you love your men, but they have a way to maintain these little quirks that make you feel terrible... Homo basicus comes with some bugs that you are obliged to accept with the whole. Therefore, we will add a list of practical ideas to help you remedy this, as long as your man is not a lost cause ...

1) He doesn't see dirt

This is a special kind of blindness: he doesn't notice the tomato sauce that was left on the worktop, the windows that became opaque, the basket of the cat which is the center of a CIA investigation because of the presence of a new type of biochemical weapon...

-> Recommended intervention: redirect his attention, tirelessly, on those "little details": you are not his maid. Household chores like many other things can be shared.

2) He looks at other women

He tries to be discreet, but even your cat facing the aquarium is more subtle than him.

-> Recommended intervention: start looking at men, so he can see how it feels ...

3) He never answers when you ask him what he thinks

It's a classic. His eyes are vague, his spirit is somewhere else, and if he ever deigns to reply, it is to grumble something incomprehensible or just to say "no".

-> Recommended intervention: do not ask more. Resist at any cost. There are great chances that your silence will make him expose his thoughts. Men often have the spirit of contradiction.

4) He eats like an animal ...

Eating with a horde of hungry hyenas, is exotic, but Animal Planet or Discovery Channel, it's prettier on TV than at the table.

-> Recommended intervention: let him discover the pleasure of enjoying. Show him that you don't consider his voracity as a tribute to your culinary talents.

5) He lacks a bit of tolerance

He finds lamentable your favorite movie, cut the music you listen to before the end of the first song ...

-> Recommended intervention: tell him clearly that you are not forced to have the same tastes, but his eyes and ears must learn to overcome these differences.

6) He brings his office colleagues with him every night

With him come the stupid boss, the incompetent employee and even the new secretary, still single, who is certainly much sexier than he dares to admit.

-> Recommended intervention: try to find both, a fair solution. He can share with you his professional life, but it should not be the only topic of conversation at dinner.

7) He is a tyrant of the remote control

Foot: 3 - Romantic Comedies: 0

-> Recommended intervention: once a week (to start), you decide what to watch, and he is prohibited from complaining

8) He doesn't listen when you talk

His cell phone rings, his team scores a goal, his colleague told him something super funny ... sometimes you have the impression that you may as well try to talk to your TV.

-> Recommended intervention: choose your "communication moments": during the match, no; on Sunday lunch, yes.

9) He dresses elegantly to others and not for you

When you go out together, you're Cinderella with her pumpkin. When you are invited into society, he turns into a prince charming.

-> Recommended intervention: Set up some "elegant" outgoings where you both get dressed beautifully, as when you first met.

You have changed your haircut, you have bought new clothes or shoes. Proud or happy with your appearance, yet your man doesn't notice any change in you. Frustrating, isn't it? Even with a so-called subtle way, it often happens that men don't realize the things unless when they are told clearly. It is still easier to go around the world that to understand the world of a woman: men can explore every beautiful things of the world, women remain an enigma for them. So, take the right path, say the right things at the right time, it's a bit to win the lottery for some men and a history of practice and experience for others.

Obviously the list is long and we can have fun doing the same thing regarding the faults of women. Note that in France, the fault of women that many men can't tolerate or which is cited most frequently is the vulgarity in words, attitudes and way of dressing or applying cosmetics: a direct message to women who do too much to put in value an awkward femininity. Men prefere the natural feminine than women may realize. The fear of not being attractive guides some women to excesses that men hate. The feminine refinement is the absolute dream for a man. Your character must be cheerful, determined and it's always useful to be cultivated... All this without losing an ounce of humility. All is said, you can be the ideal woman in the eyes of men.

So, whatever their background or education is, men are still Neanderthals, therefore a bit macho. But, that's how you love them. They may have one, two or all the defects mentioned, they still spice up the everyday. Without them women would be bored as much as before a B-movie.

Paris plage

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Palm trees, fine sand, sun-loungers and parasols…No you are not dreaming, you are not in Cannes but still in central Paris. Summer time means another “Paris plage” (Paris Beach) experience for Parisians and tourists alike. It’s a free summer event that transforms several spots in Paris into full-fledged beaches for a whole month!

The first Paris Plage was organized on the banks of the Seine River in 2002 by the mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoë. He wanted to give Parisians who were unable to go on a holiday to the seaside the opportunity to experience the beach right in their own city. This event which was initially criticized by some as costly and frivolous, has become a permanent fixture in the Parisian summertime scene. From sunning in the sand to swimming in pools suspended over the Seine, kayaking, or enjoying free evening concerts, Paris Plage attracts people of all ages, shapes and sizes and it offers activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. It has proved to be so successful that a new Paris Plage was opened at a location outside the city center, at the Bassin de la Vilette, in 2007, and the general idea of urban beaches has been copied by cities throughout Europe such as Berlin, Brussels, Budapest, Prague…

This year, the 11th edition of Paris Plages is held. For 4 weeks during the height of the summer season, you can build sand castles, work on your tan at the deckchairs, and enjoy games of Pétanque. The beaches are open from 8 am to midnight each day, and they are completely free to visit!

Because the two different locations both have some unique activities, we’ll highlight the Plage on the riverbank and the Plage at the Bassin de la Vilette below.

Paris Plage from the Louvre to Pont de Sully

The original Paris Plage is located on the right bank of the Seine River. Starting July 20th 2012, the Georges Pompidou road is closed to traffic and turned into a pedestrianized zone from roughly the Louvre Museum to the Pont de Sully.

Stretching almost 1 kilometer, the area right next to the river will feature real sand, deckchairs, and spots where you can play Pétanque. The beach will also feature water spouts where you can cool off, as well as a real swimming pool. All these things are completely free, so you can save your money for ice cream and drinks!

Photo by Amanda

The Paris Plage will also feature free performances to keep you entertained throughout the day. In front of the Hôtel de Ville, there’s a square where a concert stage is set up for Paris Plage. Performances are held during the first week of the event, and they are completely free.

Paris Plage at the Bassin de la Villette

The Paris Plage at the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th Arrondissement will stretch from the Rotonde de Ledoux to the Rue de Crimée. For water sports enthusiasts, the beach of choice will be here. The Bassin de la Villette is the largest artificial lake in Paris, so it lends itself perfectly for boating. In the real water sports complex, you will have the chance to try out row boats, kayaks, pedal boats and even small sailboats at no charge until 9:00 p.m., with instructors on the scene to help ensure a safe experience. And after boating, a cold drink on one of the beach's waterside cafes will be in order. So, you won’t even have to pack your own lunch.

So if you are planning to be in Paris between late July and mid-August, join in the summer festivities and make the most of the beach at your inner city doorstep! All you need now to complete this easy, breezy summer feeling is a beach towel, a bottle of chilled rosé or a classic French picnic, and the summery sound of your favorite CD. What more could one want?!

Be a real Parisian... Final Act

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sun, 22 Jul 2012 16:17:00 +0000

It's been a couple of months since I didn't post anything at all. The godmother of this blog was a bit upset with this situation and she blamed me, rightly, of being too lazy. So here is the final part of "Be a real Parisian". There is certainly still a lot to tell, but that will only be completed by epilogues.

It's well known all around the world that the French have some difficulty speaking foreign languages, starting of course with English. But, be aware that unlike the rest of his countrymen, the Parisian speaks very good English.

City of multiple exchanges and French favorite destination for British, the Parisian has mechanically found a benefit to it. Since several decades, he managed to create a language where the French language is marked by a considerable number of borrowings from English. This ubiquitous use of Anglicisms is Franglais!

With his friends, he talks about his "spirit", his "timing" or his "management". Il squeeze, il check, il switche... The company employees will speak in general better in English than the others with a broader knowledge of appropriate terms. They will manage their "planning" to "meetings", create "slides" or make a "feedback" on their work...

Thus, professional terms quickly become second nature: the Parisian is "corporate". Moreover, he knows that French language has its limits. Clearly, there is no word in French for "spirit". So when he says that "il est en speed car il a squeezé un gros meeting entre le lunch avec son boss et le conf call avec le CEO (he is really stressed because he forgot an important appointment at lunch time with his boss...) , he is not or no more aware of the Anglo-Saxon influence which is in his sentence. Such is the price of knowledge. This knowledge is also acquired at work, by traveling or just flipping through magazines. Most editorials are based in Paris, one can not be surprised to see flourish in the press the sections such as "fashion", "people" or "shopping".

To the Parisian, English is secretly cooler than French. That language also seems simpler. The use of English is therefore a tool for recognition of his peers. He doesn't hesitate to use words which are in tune with the times, an Anglicism taken to an extreme which sometimes leads to a speech that is both complex and meaningless. Parisians instantly understand the examples cited above. So, only a few provincial will decipher this special language. Often, the provincial laugh. Such is the price of ignorance. But, faced with criticism, the Parisian can react in two ways:

- Either he admits: "I know, that's incredible, I can't help myself..."

- or, with a modern magnificent, he replies: "Oh là là, don't be backward-looking but move with the times..."

Thus attacked, The Parisian is a victim of its own knowledge. It goes without saying that the faux amis don't disturb him at all. And if you are bilingual French-English, it will be necessary to quickly learn Franglais in Paris. Trilingualism is within sight. C'est vraiment hard d'être parisien!

A tip: Paris is one of the most touristic city of the world. But, unlike Americans (or other tourists) who often do the mistake, know once and for all that Parisians don't speak or very bad or they will not dare to speak English. However, this will not prevent our Quebec cousins to think, with this Franglais, that we will end up looking like Americanized French.

Post translated in French:

Il est de notoriété internationale que les français ont quelques difficultés à parler les langues étrangères, à commencer naturellement par l’anglais. Mais, ne vous y trompez pas. Contrairement au reste de ses compatriotes, le parisien parle très bien l’anglais.

Ville brassée par de multiples échanges et destination française favorite des britanniques, le parisien a su mécaniquement en tirer profit. Avec ses amis, le parisien parle de son « spirit », de son « timing » ou de son « management ». Il squeeze, il check, il switche. Le salarié d’une entreprise s’exprimera en général mieux en anglais que les autres : avec une connaissance plus large des termes adéquates, il saura gérer son « planning » de « meetings », créer des « slides » ou faire un « feedback » sur son travail…

Ainsi, le jargon professionnel devient rapidement une deuxième nature : le parisien est « corporate ». En outre, il sait que le français a ses limites. A l’évidence, il n’existe pas de mot pour spirit en français. Aussi, lorsqu’il évoque qu’il est en speed car il a squeezé un gros meeting entre le lunch avec son boss et le conf call avec le CEO, il n’a nulle conscience de la vague influence anglo-saxonne qui réside dans sa phrase. Tel est le prix du savoir. Ce savoir qui est d’ailleurs acquis au travail, en voyageant ou en feuilletant des magazines. La plupart des rédactions journalistiques étant basées à Paris, on ne peut s’étonner de voir fleurir dans la presse des rubriques « fashion », « people » ou « shopping ».

Pour le parisien, l’anglais est secrètement plus cool que le français. C’est aussi une langue plus simple. L’emploi de l’anglais est alors un outil de reconnaissance de ses pairs. Il n’hésite pas à employer des mots dans l’air du temps, un anglicisme poussé à l’extrême qui l’amène parfois à tenir un discours à la fois complexe et vide de sens. Les parisiens comprennent instantanément les exemples cités précédemment. Alors, que seuls quelques provinciaux sauront déchiffrer ce langage. Bien souvent, le provincial se moquera. Tel est le prix de l’ignorance. Mais, face à la critique, le parisien peut réagir de deux façons :

- soit il admettra : « je sais, c’est grave, j’peux pas m’en empêcher… »

- soit, magnifique de modernité, il répondra : « oh là là, évolue un peu, faut pas être passéiste mais vivre avec son temps »

Ainsi attaqué, le parisien est victime de son propre savoir. Il va de soi que les faux amis ne dérangent pas le parisien. Et si vous êtes bilingue français-anglais, il conviendra de vite apprendre l’anglais de Paris. Le trilinguisme est à portée de vue. C’est vraiment hard d’être parisien !

Un conseil : Paris est une ville internationale et l’une des plus touristiques au monde. Mais, contrairement aux américains (ou autres touristes) qui s’y méprennent souvent, sachez une fois pour toute que le parisien ne parle pas, mal ou n’osera pas parler anglais. Cela n’empêchera pas nos cousins québécois de penser, qu’avec ce franglais, on s’américanise tellement qu’on pourrait représenter le français avec des oreilles de Mickey.

How to become a Cracovian

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Sun, 27 May 2012 13:18:00 +0000

In response to the article "Be a real Parisian... Act II", here is a non-exhaustive and playful list that describes the Cracovian. Of course, to become a real one, a few rules have to be respected as:

1) You are not a resident of Warsaw. You don't belong to this group of snobs who says "na dwór" (in the court) instead of going out = "na pole" (literally out on the field) like everyone else, and who are the kings on the road.

2) You are Polish, then you need to know how to manage every situation. This is not a skill learned, one is born with it. Several generations have perfected this ability and you, you only need "to suck the milk of the mother".

3) Everybody says that you are stingy. Then, you're already excused ;)

4) If you are a true Cracovian, you must be super resourceful and know every corner, all the small alleys and shortcuts to get by in a city full of traffic jams. If you don't know, you can still have extraordinary patience. However, if you know them, it's enough to be only super patient...

5) 210 000 of the 756 183 inhabitants of the city are students. So, if you are young and you live in Krakow, it's very very likely that you're not at all a Krakow.

6) If you are a Cracovian for generations, you have at home a small traditional costume of your childhood... or at least a Cracovian hat, a red collar.

7) If you are a Cracovian, you don't really need to ask: "Then, where are we going to meet?" One can simply go to the marketplace and wait under the statue of Mickiewicz.

You'll be there!
And if you're not here, you're probably running late. Eventually, we can meet at the other side of the Sukiennice (the building at the bottom of the photo) around the old City Hall tower

If still, you're not here, it's a shame. Something may have eaten you... could it be the dragon?

Renata

Be a real Parisian... Act II

noreply@blogger.com (John) — Tue, 15 May 2012 01:29:00 +0000

After learning the language and vocabulary necessary for your successful integration in the city, let's look at the other symbol of Paris: la parisienne. Of course, there are the clichés about the inimitable chic of the Parisian woman. However, some truths must be revealed on this atypical character. You aren't necessarily born Parisian, you become! It is a learning that requires a number of sacrifices, but it is true that being part of this caste that the world envies us is a privilege that is worth fighting a minimum (however, Londoner and New Yorker would likely have to teach the Frenchies on a lot of points).

Although there are a multitude of look, it's not difficult to note the main characteristics of the Parisienne and thus differentiate her from other French or foreigners. Unless this is behaviour to avoid... Here are therefore some tips to adopt habits, look and attitude "made in Paris". Elegance, chic and sobriety are naturally the basic principles.

1) Be elegant in all circumstances: the Parisienne, it is well known all over the world, is elegant. She never makes the slightest odd dress and, if it actually is in reality, it's you who have a metro of delay on the trends of the moment. This is what gives her so subtly icy and imperturbable air. To be avoided: "the apparent garters" (unless you work at Crazy Horse), "the strings with low jeans" (one of the mysteries of fashion), and especially to match the color of your tights with your shoes and bag is a big faux pas. Unlike her cousins from the Riviera or her London friends, she never takes risks, never crosses out nails from fashion, except - a little- to go out. This caution is her eyes sharp, judging the looks of others with the mercy of a hungry hawk. She pushes the elegance to her way of being, of standing, speaking and of course wearing the garment.

The Parisienne is anything but a "fashion-victim". She can play with the trends without following them to the letter. The key is to have style...your own style (too much reading of magazines can make you forget your taste). Her colors are neutral: black, grey, white, beige, navy blue, khaki. She doesn't put too much make-up and goes with a cleverly tidy-untidy hair ("I have a so-called messy bun done quite quickly which in fact took me ten minutes before the glass with many contortions"). In her closet, you will always find a beautiful jacket, pants suit, a sexy dress but not vulgar and divine lingerie. Don't forget that in a look, the star may be the accessory: it's all in the bag or shoes!

2) Pull the face at all times. It's a fact: the real Parisienne doesn't smile. Ever. She doesn't say hello in public transports. Besides, someone who says hello in the street for no reason is necessarily crazy or provincial. When the bus is crowded, she walks you on foot without apologizing and sighs (but always elegantly, it goes without saying, not a elephantine breath of an annoyed girl) when she has to get off the bus to let people out. And, if you advance not fast enough for her, she barks a "Pardon", which is anything but an excuse. In short, she's a real complainer and she's never satisfied: taxes, strikes, tourists, rents, other Parisians... everything is subject to dispute and discontent.

3) Don't frequent places known to the capital. It is known, the real Parisian is not in those places that everyone knows. No, it's too overused for her. She knows the true fashionable places of Paris or loves to believe it. Then, she likes to slum in exotic places, like a slightly seedy harbor where their cool outfits (brand jeans + top of a creator + a pair of expensive shoes, but still discreet) will emerge in the background. And above all, when the Parisienne talks about this little place, she makes it appear like a little secret. For a little less than six months, in any case.

4) The Parisienne regularly queues. Yes, even though she knows secret places where she likes to go, she also frequents trendy places of the capital. Since she and thousands of her clones also frequent these places, she doesn't have a choice but to queue. Not without strong sighs and complaints. She is used to wait for the opening of a department store, or to eat brunch in a very fashionable place. She therefore seeks to have a very safe address book: clothes, accessories, perfumery, outings... She's made of contradictions, but that's also part of her charm.

5) Don't take the metro. The real Parisienne doesn't take the metro. She takes the bus, and later, when she's old, she drives her own car, thus helping to create this delicious smog above the capital, that colors some days the sunrise with supernatural tints. So, she takes the bus, but also rides bicycle (recently, she has a green conscience which coincides very well with her concern to eliminate cellulite) and walk. This is the secret of the sylphide for the Parisienne line. With all the pastries, all these restaurants and cuisine of the world established in the city, this diversity and these temptations fail to affect her physical.

6) Bring a pair of shoes: unavoidable consequence of the previous character line, the Parisienne has a pair of ballerinas in her bag. Indeed, even for her, walking in high heels is not an easy job, especially when it comes to walking along the rue de Rivoli all day.

7) Never go to Castorama. Yes DIY stores are usually outside Paris, and even if it's cheaper, the Parisienne prefers to buy three nails in BHV (a famous department store close to the city hall in central Paris). There, she stands like an idiot in the drill department, a hot spot of seduction for thirtysomethings singles. And, with the hammer, it's a good way to get hit on the basement of a department store.

8) Talk with an air of everything and nothing. And especially dragging out the vowels. "Ouiii, un peu comme çaaa, tu voa?"

Obviously, these little lessons are not exhaustive. The Parisienne is a bit like the Champs-Elysées, allegedly the most beautiful in the world. We can always argue that along the ten million people in Paris, they are a minority. Many girls who live in the city don't look like that. Or they say it to reassure themselves because they are afraid of becoming it.

But, after all, if one is able to feel drift towards the stereotype, and is terrified of this nightmarish slide, this is perhaps what will definitely lack to these "real Parisienne": humour and step back on oneself. So, as long as you have it, you may consider yourself saved. Even if you have a pair of ballerinas at the bottom of your too expensive bag.