Meet the Ogres: Holidaying in the Loire Valley

Do you like mad experiences when you travel? I know I do. It's the small quirky events that can make a holiday memorable, and usually these happen in response to the people we meet. Furthermore, the combined unique qualities of both the traveller and the host create individual experiences and stories to enrich your life. Travelling to another country is an obvious path to interesting encounters of the foreign kind. Add to that a foreign culture and language we can rest assured there is at once trouble and good times ahead. Problem is, how do we know where to stay? Listen to the stories of others of course. Allow me to introduce to you a charming French couple who love foreign blood.

Meet the Ogres. Actually the name is spelt Augers. This husband and wife team operate a picturesque chambre d'hôte in Civray in the department of Indre et Loire. This is a strong recommendation for anyone wishing to visit the famous chateau Chenonceau, ancient home of Catherine de Medici. Magnificently maintained by the Meniur family, well known chocolatiers, this chateau exhibits its unique and graceful character as it arches over the river Cher. A place where one would not normally expect to discuss personal anatomical features, although who knows what went on in that labyrinth. No such formality, however, at the Ogres.

Make yourself at home at the breakfast table which is always spread with delicious home made crepes, fruit compotes, fresh juice and real coffee. Looking for a bit more than the ubiquitous baguette and croissants? Look no further. An interesting conversation is always lingering close by too. If you don't speak French, all the more reason to make an attempt. The Ogres love to be entertained. One word of caution if your astrological sign is Virgo; remember that you are 'la vierge', and not 'la verge' meaning penis. A friend will forever more be known as 'penis woman'.

Finally we come to say goodbye and congratulate ourselves on having passed a wonderful few days in such a stunning place, and with our personal integrity almost intact. When asking for the bill, 'l'addition', be sure to articulate clearly. If you pronounce it more like 'la nichon', they will think you are asking to see their breasts. Hysterical laughter follows with associated back patting and belly holding, and you leave feeling very euphoric until a French speaking friend explains it to you.

Be original, go forth and make your own mistakes.