MmePerdu

My old Paris neighborhood (Rue Tholoze) has most certainly gentrified. It was scruffy & working class when I lived there and was all I could afford in the '60's. Now it's nicer and still about what I can afford. The more things change, the more they stay the same?

cigalechanta

MmePerdu, you are so right. On this forum so many tell posters to avoid Carcassonne, Les Baux, and Gordes, each a unique place.

Abby5205

I have probably spent about 12 weeks in France over the past 5 years. While I have not traveled through all the departments, I have seen enough to be thoroughly enchanted by France and I have enjoyed every minute of my travels. Recently, I was most surprised by the comments of a traveling companion who remarked that Petit Luberon area was reminiscent of SW Texas. I was crushed because I love this area of France. But it brought home dramatically how others perceive France and its regions. The same goes for the 'most beautiful villages'. I have been through several and I had to ask myself what was the big deal. I have come to realize, that for me, the small towns and the pace of life is what attracts me to France. The art, architecture, food and wine are also high on the list. It is not the award of some arbitrary prize.