Category Archives: Culture & Identity

The curious case of the missing decades

Posted on November 30, 2025 by admin

After 44 years abroad, I’m rediscovering a France I completely missed — especially its music. Iconic bands I never heard of, hits everyone knows except me, and weekly surprises as I catch up on four lost decades. It’s like being … Continue reading →

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Un peu d’histoire 🇫🇷

Posted on November 17, 2025 by admin

A short history of Carcassonne

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England: The 51st State in spirit 🇬🇧

Posted on September 19, 2025 by admin

From pumpkin spice lattes to Black Friday stampedes, England is slowly turning into a mini-USA. Explore the satirical side of fashion, food, and language changes in British life

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La Madeleine de Proust 🇫🇷🇬🇧

Posted on September 19, 2025 by admin

Ever had a taste, smell, or sound transport you back in time? Discover the story behind Proust’s madeleine—the tiny treat that unlocks life’s most cherished memories.

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Irish escapade 🇬🇧

Posted on September 3, 2025 by admin

Day -2 From Carcassonne to Guinness in one (very thrifty) Ryanair wedge—strap in and check in! Day -1 Sunshine, sarcasm, and a suitcase that won’t shut—join me on my misadventures from Occitan bliss to Irish drizzle. Day 1 49 years … Continue reading →

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European accent 🇫🇷🇬🇧🇩🇪

Posted on August 15, 2025 by admin

When a Hollywood cop described a suspect as having a “European accent,” I nearly spilled my cafĂ© crème. From French chic to Scottish grit, Europe’s accents are as varied as its landscapes—yet somehow, we’re all lumped into one. A witty … Continue reading →

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Massalia 🇫🇷

Posted on August 9, 2025 by admin

Marseille dans le sang, Paris sur la carte d’identitĂ©. Entre les Ă©tĂ©s ensoleillĂ©s chez ma grand-mère Alphonsine, les marchĂ©s parfumĂ©s, les après-midis Ă  la Pointe Rouge et les histoires hautes en couleur de tonton Maurice, chaque souvenir est une bouffĂ©e … Continue reading →

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Super Bowl LIX

Posted on February 10, 2025 by admin

A sleepless European, a 12:30 AM kickoff, endless commercials, and a few dangerously good cocktails—welcome to my Super Bowl night. I rooted for Philly, ranted about ads, marveled at how little the “ball in play” actually is, and still somehow … Continue reading →

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