Hello. My name is Marcia. I'm from Albuquerque. I came to Provence for immersion on the recommendation of my French teacher in the United States, who is also named Virginie. She is also known by her business name, "Ehouiclass." I've been here for a few days now, and I feel very comfortable in my studio surrounded by Virginie and her family. So, I want to share with you one of the beautiful days I had the chance to experience in this little piece of paradise.
1/ A typical day of immersion in Provence with Marcia: Breakfast
For breakfast, Virginie had an apple turnover and a "tresse" (a brioche with pearl sugar). We shared them and enjoyed them immensely. During the lesson, we talked about many things. It seems we can talk about anything together. Virginie is so patient and encouraging with me.
2/ A typical day of immersion in Provence with Marcia: Le Verlan
She talked to me about different dialects, different language habits like slang or "le Verlan." She explained that le verlan is a language that was invented in the 19th century by delinquents to avoid being understood by the police.
Verlan became popular with Renaud's song called "Laisse béton." Verlan involves separating syllables and reversing them. For example, Renaud's song "Laisser béton" means "Laisser tomber" in French. Virginie showed me this video, which will surely help you understand better.
3/ A typical day of immersion in Provence with Marcia: Lunch
After the lesson, where I also had the opportunity to review the conditional tense and express myself freely, we had a late lunch. Indeed, we had eaten heartily for breakfast.
Virginie continues to amaze me. She cooked shrimp with onions, garlic, and eggplants bought at the market the day before. It was absolutely delicious. It was like eating lobster. You constantly want to lick your fingers while peeling the shrimp. I really liked the eggplants, which Virginie didn't enjoy as much. We also had salad and olives. We also drank tea. No wine for me today.
4/ A typical day of immersion in Provence with Marcia: The Cézanne Refuge
After lunch, we went for a hike. We took the car and parked at the "Deux Aiguilles" parking lot. From there, it is possible to reach the Cézanne Refuge. The Cézanne Refuge is located on the southern face of Montagne Sainte-Victoire. It was built in 1954 by Jean Magnan and his friends from the Association of Excursionists of Aix-en-Provence.
We walked uphill to the top of a hill. We admired the view. We didn't reach Cézanne's refuge that day, but it didn't matter because the view was incredible.
5/ A typical day of immersion in Provence with Marcia: Conclusion of a beautiful day
We returned home. I went for another walk near the house along the vineyards. At my request, Virginie gave me more exercises on the conditional tense. But I think I need to review my lesson before. Anyway, I know that Virginie will have another revision idea for tomorrow morning.
If you are coming for an immersion stay in Provence, I really invite you to contact Virginie in Provence. She will be happy to make you discover the different aspects of Provence: landscapes and scents, but also culture, gastronomy... while helping you to improve your French.
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