A trip to the land of the Gallic rooster

Arrival

Nantes, a city in western France on the Loire river, was my next destination. After a connection in Paris (CDG) I landed in Nantes. The first thing that hits you is the climate. You can smell the sea — for me, coming from Central Europe, it was a completely different and new sensation.

Sights

The city centre isn't that huge — you can walk around it quite comfortably on foot. The dominant landmark towering above all other buildings is Le Nid — a 32-storey building with a bar on the top floor. From up there you can see the whole surrounding area, and during the day you can certainly spot the sea too (the port of Saint-Nazaire isn't that far). On the first day of my visit a carnival was taking place in the city. The streets were full of people, confetti and other necessary props were everywhere. For the first time I saw samba live... with a band and dancers.

Food

I have to mention the bakeries. The cheapest item you can buy there is, what else, a baguette. But what a baguette — certainly more than 30 cm long, and the taste can't be compared to what you get in the Czech Republic. Not to mention the croissants, pastries, and everything else. We visited two French restaurants, tasted local cuisine and wines. I can say that French gastronomy is a pleasure for the taste buds. Even if it's not the cheapest.

Patriotism

I mustn't forget French pride. Yes, you can get by in English at the airport, but if you speak French it's much easier... Everywhere else problems can arise — even in the hotel. Non-verbal communication will always save you. As long as you're polite and not the overbearing tourist who only speaks English thinking the world owes them attention.

French behaviour

The best thing about the whole experience was discovering they have plenty of time for everything... a newsagent opening at 10 in the morning is the perfect example.