Tours - the former capital of France and home of Kings

In the 14th and 15th century, Tours was the capital of France and home to Kings and their royal court. Later, once the capital was moved to Paris, châteaux were built throughout the Loire valley as the summer homes to the royals. As a result, we are surrounded by wonderful structures dating as far back as the 1300s. I will be visiting some of these as part of my program and then Allan, Sophie and I will pick out some more interesting ones to visit ourselves. There is even a "château" with a miniature of all of the châteaux in the region, set up expecially for kids. Allan will take Sophie there.

Tours is located on the Loire river, which adds to its beauty. It also allows for a fertile climate, conducive to vignobles. The wine of the Val de Loire is lighter than a burgundy certainly, but even lighter than a bordeau. Both red and white wines are popular here.

The university is located in the center of Tours, mere minutes from the old city. During the lunch hour, I am walking down narrow cobblestone streets, snapping photos wherever possible. My colleagues generally profit from the two hour lunch break to have a long lunch (all of the courses, plus dessert), but I am not used to eating that much at lunch and it's nice to take some time all by myself to appreciate my surroundings. We are on quite a tight schedule, but program is very well organized and hits all of the literary hightlights of the region.

For the planned excursions, I ride in style - in the car of the president of the university with his private chauffeur!! Imaginez-vous!! Needless to say, they are treating "la délégation américaine" very well here.