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Vin Rouge, Fiestas and a Small Boat: Through the French Canals to Spain
Vin Rouge Fiestas and a Small Boat Through the French Canals to Spain Author:Mrs Eugenie C Smith Vin Rouge, Fiestas and a Small Boat is a light-hearted, true account of Eugenie and Brian Smith's adventures bound for Spain via the French canals in the 1980's. Under the murky skies of Essex, England, Brian hatches a plan to build a 33 foot sailing yacht from a kit in the back yard and set out on a trip that would take them across the English ... more »Channel, into the beauty of rural France, and finally breaking out into the Mediterranean to extend their adventures west along the coasts of France and Spain. The intrepid couple pursue their dream whilst juggling the responsibilities of three children, pets, and running a busy overseas property business. Despite their hectic lives, their personable and inquisitive nature leads them on a varied journey full of rich experiences, where they encounter the quirky and often humorous idiosyncrasies of colourful characters they meet along the way. From adorably friendly lock keepers, to boating adventurers, local townsfolk, wayward dreamers, and nudists, they take us on a charming and leisurely drift through heady climates and the intoxicating French and Spanish cultures. Their endeavours, however, are not bereft of setbacks and challenges. In the Mediterranean, the notorious Gulf of Lion unleashes the wroth of the elements with a near capsize in rough seas. Language barriers, unfathomable local customs, boating mishaps, and all manner of obstacles have to be overcome to continue the journey... to pursue the dream. A treat for travellers, boating enthusiasts, and armchair adventurers alike, Vin Rouge, Fiestas and a Small Boat offers an unassuming, tantalising glimpse of untainted local life and culture.« less