To 'B''or not to 'B'? I have held back from sending another newsletter hoping for some clarity with Brexit. Futile, I hear you say, as clearly that is not to be! One of the journalists keeping me up-to-date with the 'shambles' is a daily newsletter from Paul Waugh of HUFFPOST.COM In my opinion, well worth subscribing. Hopefully, at some time in the future an agreement may be reached, but in the meantime a few properties to keep you interested are shown below.
I have always tried to give a few tips about France, particularly with regard to motoring - where the laws are becoming a nightmare! Pedestrian Crossings are the most recent subject for new regulations:
Drivers now face a €35 fine if their vehicle strays into new “buffer zones” in front of pedestrian road crossings, which may now be introduced by local mayors. Under the new buffer zone rules, drivers will now be required to come to a complete stop before this dashed line if there are any pedestrians waiting or preparing to cross. Any driver found to have crossed the buffer zone line when there are pedestrians present, will risk being fined €35 per infraction. Since September 2018, French law has stated that any driver who refuses to stop for a pedestrian waiting or preparing to cross at a designated crossing – even one without a buffer zone – risks a fine of €135, and six points off their licence. Drivers can also have their licence suspended for three years if they fail to stop. (Source - The Local).
May public holidays: Wednesday 1st - Labour day *; Wednesday - 8th V.E. Day *; Thursday 30th - Ascension Day. Many will take 'le pont' - taking the Friday off as well being the' bridge' between the public holiday and the weekend. *Some might also take le 'Viaduc' the two days between the public holiday and the weekend - and if they do that, why go to work in May?!
With spring under way and summer on the horizon, there may be some of you considering installing a pool in your French Property. A relation of mine runs a company installing new pools, or renovationg those that need it. Buying or renovating a swimming pool in France can be a daunting experience. How do you pick the best company and one that cares about your pool, the finished product and its longevity and maintenance? Compass Pools France was founded by Alexander Pearson (Msc) and Krystian Sordyl (Msc) who moved to France after working in the high-end swimming pool construction market in the UK. Their frustration at the throw away culture that has crept into the French swimming pool market, dominated by cheap polyester pools with 10-15 year lifespans, led them to setup a company with a philosophy of finding the best value, most sustainable and longest lasting materials to create a beautiful place that can be enjoyed by families and friends for many, many years to come. Compass swimming pools come with a 40yr guarantee, can be installed in a week, comply with French safety laws, self clean, operate with no chemicals. All of which offers a return on investment. Excuse the pun, but this is a refreshing experience and we recommend you contact them if you are even remotely considering swimming pool work in France. www.gaiusta.com
I would like to draw your attention to the large stone 'mas' in Provence.which is shown below. I have stayed there many times and it has been superbly renovated with space, and comfort. The garden has also been beautifully designed.
Easter is a few days away and in France Good Friday is not a public holiday, but Easter Monday is.
FOR MORE DETAILS OF PROPERTIES BELOW - CLICK ON THE PHOTOS: