French immersion in Brittany

As soon as I saw Florence’s red beret among the sea of people at Vannes Station and then met her on the platform, I knew that I was going to spend a really enjoyable week!

Florence and Dawson have thought of everything and one’s every need is satisfied at their very comfortable and attractive Gite, which forms one end of their beautifully renovated Longere, a traditional Breton farm house, built of local stone and with thick walls.

I loved the surroundings, the open meadows, the wide views, the hens in their enclosure. Wonderful to be woken up by an energetic rooster on my first morning! At the end of the day sleep comes easily here. If you look out at night there is not a light to be seen.

Lessons began in earnest on the Monday morning. From around 9 am to midday approximately. Of course I should mention that French is encouraged to be spoken at all times, during meals and when out and about. (Once home I miss being able to practice!). First there was an aptitude test and then each lesson was carefully crafted to fit in with one’s weaknesses and queries. They often had a theme to match where we were going to go that afternoon, eg La Resistance, and the Museum at Malestroit.

One is worked hard, which is what I wanted. Much grammar was covered. Also studying a newspaper article for each lesson is an excellent idea, as it brings one into the realm of current, modern french, which is often a great contrast to what one has learnt in earlier life.

It was lovely to meet Maia, the beautiful dog, who is now leading the best life ever. She would often accompany us for lessons - a delight.

Lessons were not confined to vocabulary and grammar! I also learnt a bit about Breton cuisine; le far and les galettes, (Dawson’s speciality - he made the preparation look easy…..it isn’t!).

And then, the excursions: I chose Carnac, extraordinary and mysterious, la Musee de la Resistance, very moving and interesting, really transported one back to those days, (the song of the Resistance became an ‘ear worm’ for me for a while); and to the Isle au Moines, beautiful walk around the coast of part of the island and then some of the exterior. Quaint streets and beautiful flowers and plants.

In short, I enjoyed every moment - and learnt a lot. Thank you.

As an educator myself, I was deeply impressed with Flo’s organization, attention to details, and flexibility in addressing my language stumbles. Speaking, or at least attempting to communicate in, French from the moment I arrived at the train station told me that this was indeed an immersion experience, even with Flo’s family.  The excursions not only expanded my knowledge of the Morbihan region, its history both recent and pre-historic, but provided further opportunities to chat while driving. The gite is superbly comfortable, well outfitted for a stay as well as great place for study. The experience surpassed all my expectations. Thank you Flo.

Maribeth F.

Recently completed an immersion with Flo. On a scale one to ten the experience was an eleven. She has all the qualities that a good teacher possesses, experience, patience and an understanding of where you are in your French language journey. I absolutely recommend her whether this is your first time doing an immersion, or you have done this before. As a side note, the accommodations could not have been better. A separate complete apartment with all the amenities. During your lessons, just don’t confuse quartier with Cartier   (private joke)