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Normandy Remembrance and Wonder

Normandy has much for the France traveler to explore and provides an experience most will never forget. Many travelers are drawn by the sorrowful history of the D-Day beaches, while others might prefer the grandeur of its fortified island known as Mont Saint Michel. No matter what visitors to this coastal region choose to see, sadly most travelers will not spend near enough time to get the full experience.

One of the first things that come to mind when thinking of Normandy is the D-Day landing beaches with its past based on the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation, but also the American Military Cemetery where some 9,000 soldiers are buried. Whether you take a guided tour or travel independently to see these and other remembrances of World War II, it is without a doubt a sobering reminder of the price of freedom and is a must for Americans and Europeans alike. It is advisable to take at least two days to see the war related sights and to use Bayeux as a base for your D-Day explorations. Visitors to Bayeux can also see the famous Bayeux Tapestry that recounts the Norman invasion of England, but to get a real taste of the region stop or stay at the Lion d’Or hotel and restaurant in Bayeux or make a reservation for dinner at Le Pommierand.

As you approach the Normandy coast and the rocky isle known as Mont Saint Michel the spectacular view is one you will never forget.. The island is known not only for its abbey, but also for its spectacular changing tides. These tides are best viewed at the new moon or full moon, when the tides at their highest and most dramatic. It is said that the tides change with the speed of a galloping horse. To get the most from your visit take the stroll up the Grand Rue to see the many shops, restaurants, and hotels, your reward once to the abbey on top is a fantastic view of the Normandy coast. Of course it goes without saying that the well known restaurant Mere Poulard is certainly worth a try. Choose their omelets or salt marsh fed lamb. However, if it is a view of the Mont with dinner you prefer, stop before the causeway at the Relais Saint Michel hotel and restaurant and dine with a most breathtaking view. Regional specialties to enjoy include, Camembert and Neufchàtel soft cheese, dishes prepared with apples or cooked in cider, and Calvados brandy.

For those wishing to extend their stay in Normandy, consider the coastal cities of Honfleur, Etretat, and Deauville. Then make sure you leave enough time on the way back to Paris to explore Roeun and its connection to Joan de Arc or Giverny for a look at the home and gardens of Claude Monet. Whenever your travels in Normandy take you, enjoy and experience not only the sights, but the people, food and flavor of the region too.

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