Visit to La Rochelle

Christiane's sister lives here and we were fortunate to be able to stay there one night.

La Rochelle is a popular sailing resort, with a medieval town centre and some very nice shops.

Helene and Christiane....

Mary touching Atlantic Ocean for first time this trip!

In the baker's shop window is a smiling assistant--she was too shy to come outside and be photographed! Mary found Galleries Lafayette and bought a bar of soap--She was not allowed the credit card.

Helene actually lives outside La Chapelle in a small village called Peripigny. It is extremely well kept and there is a sense of pride and beauty in this and many other French villages that seems so lacking in Australia--where we value private wealth above the  public good--end of lecture! Here is their local community centre..