We’re so brave over here, taking the brunt of the nasty strikes in the thick of it all. We console ourselves with the wine, French country villages and the croissants.
This last group of the season truly has had to face some difficulties due to the strike. I will blog all about it as soon as the tour is complete – at the end of the week.
As I write this France is putting on a general strike (ie planes, trains, and automobiles, the latter because it’s hard to get gas, postal workers, teachers, buses, even under age students, and truckers who block highways).
This morning I spent an unpleasant half hour waiting in line (dumb behavior was witnessed all around where usually I’m admiring the French for their reserve and intelligent ways) to get to a gas pump and pumped in my 4 euros worth just to top it off in case a full on shortage really does ensue. Though, you could say there is already a shortage as all 12 refineries in France are unable to produce or distribute. However, there are a few stations that are getting their provisions.
This is what it looks like in most stations you drive by this week.
It says “VIDES” on the pumps which means EMPTY.
Despite this we are fully able to isolate ourselves from the nitty reality of it while we carry on with the tour as planned. In fact it’s going fabulously with declarations from the participants that they are staying in France, and were planning on emailing their husbands with the news.
This is one of our stops yesterday.
You can see a few more pix at the Etsy Vintage Team blog.
I’ll be back soon with updates of the strikes (pray the strikes end this week!) and stories from the current tour – and pictures from my new camera![/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
The two stations in my town have been closed except for once when they were delivered, but the lines were so long that I didn’t have the courage to wait and top off my tank. Plus the gas prices have sky rocketed! So I guess I’ll just stick around my corner of Privence for a few days 🙂
What kind of camera did you get? I recently changed for a Lumix. I’m still learning how to use it.
Meredith, it’s a Canon Powershot SD1400 IS. I got in on Amazon.com and someone brought it over from the U.S. I really love this camera. It runs about $200. And it took a minute to get going on it – the learning curve, though I need to go through the manual to know how to optimize.
Our two stations were closed in Venelles and are both open today. Yes, it’s only drive anywhere if you really have to.
Good luck with your Lumix!
As much of a hassle as this strike is, knowing you, your tour participants are feeling very well cared for. : )
I can’t wait to hear more about this trip. I checked out the photos on the etsy site – lovely!!
Therese, I just got back from dropping the group at the airport, or as close as I could get them! They had to walk a good part of the way with their luggage. Quite the story which I’ll blog about asap.
How brave to continue a tour in France with the chance you might get stuck over there! (said with my tongue in cheek) We can only hope that the visitors may be forced to stay and drink more wine, buy more souvenirs, see more of beautiful France.
Jill … all Texans are home and settled. We had the MOST FABULOUS time in Provence (strike or no strike). You, Michele and Val planned an unbelievable itenerary and anticipated every wish we might’ve had. Thanks and can’t wait to read more on your blog.
Kelly
Kelly, thanks for the good news. I also had a fabulous time and thanks so much for coming over! I loved your questions and charisma throughout the week, and really enjoyed being able to chat during the farewell dinner.
Great to have found your blog. Looks like you have a great time on your trips.
Take care Nicky.
Hi Nicky – Thanks for coming by my blog.
I have the most excellent time on the trips, your right. 🙂
Cheers, Jill