Thursday, July 30, 2009

Experience the Wonders of Languedoc Roussillon

By Peter Bronski

In the south of France sits the Languedoc Roussillon which is one of France's twenty six regions. This region stretches alongside the Mediterranean coast, specifically between the Provence and the Pyrenees areas. Known for its heritage, climate and landscape, the Languedoc Roussillon is a region which should be commended for is diversity and magnificence.

This French region has five divisions: the breathtaking sights of Lozere, the classy region of Herault, the historical Gard, the beautiful Aude, and the mountainous Pyrenees-Orientales. The different divisions of the Languedoc Roussillon are now politically connected as just one region, however with the shift of provincial borders we learn that parts of the Lozere were in the Auvergne region before.

The shifts in borders also show that, what used to be the province of Languedoc, was in fact extended to the west area of Toulouse, which is now part of the Midi Pyrenees region.

This French region hugs the Mediterranean coast to form the magnificent Golfe du Lion. Languedoc Roussillon is very popular thanks to the diversity of its scenery. Sandy beaches, a multitude of ravines and rivers flowing through its valleys, the groves thriving with olives, vineyards growing luscious fruits, and the alluring Pyrenees covered with snow are just some of the sights that you can see in the wonderful Languedoc Roussillon. This region is the base for a multicultural population of about two million people.

Its major cities also help boost the economy of the region. Montpellier, known as the 8th largest city in France, is now currently undergoing changes which aim to improve the overall economy of the region. Investers are also geared towards the cities of Nimes and Perpignan, and the whole Languedoc Roussillon is surely competing against other famous French tourist destinations such as Provence and the Cote d'Azur because the facilities of the hotels in this whole region are of the highest standards.

Motorways are also built around the different towns and cities of Languedoc Roussillon, which make it easier for tourists and residents alike to go around their favorite hotspots. In addition to this, airlines also make it easier to travel, since there are several airport routes in the major cities of Montpellier, Nmes, Perpignan and Carcassonne.

High speed TGV trains link the beautiful city of Paris to the thriving area of Montpellier in less than four hours. New construction has also been started in Perpignan for a link to Barcelona which will, when completed, be reached in less than an hour.

The sights found in Languedoc Roussillon are not the only ones to look forward to. The people of Languedoc Roussillon are also very hospitable and accommodating. The Catalans and Cathars also feature distinctive characteristics, including the practice of the old langue d'oc language. By just visiting this wonderful region, you will be able to experience the rich heritage of France as a whole.

The tasty wine is not the only thing that should be commended about the Languedoc Roussillon. The heritage of France, as shown in the medieval city at Carcassonne, the Pont du Gard, the roman arena at Nimes and the Canal du Midi will take your breath away. Just experiencing this region in a glance is already amazing. What more will happen if you will actually tour the place on your own?

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