A house in rural France — that was how the advert for free accommodation for Ukrainians began, and we immediately responded. Despite the unclear location and conditions, at a time when many Ukrainians were fleeing to the EU, a separate house was a real luxury.
First of all, before describing places, I should mention the great people we met there who are always ready to lend a helping hand, no matter the circumstance. They’re everyday heroes whose generosity and empathy create a ripple effect, inspiring others to follow their example and contribute to a more caring and compassionate world. To these individuals, we owe our deepest gratitude for their unwavering commitment to making our lives easier in particular and overall to making the world a better place.
Having no experience travelling outside tourist locations, and with no prior experience in France, the journey was challenging, starting with the famous Paris metro. However, we managed quite well for first-time travellers. Communicating with transport staff was difficult since not everyone spoke English, but it was unexpectedly pleasant — everyone tried to help us.
As we drove further from Paris, through towns familiar from mediaeval novels, I realised I was in places whose names I didn’t recognize in any familiar language. Paris, a city I never aspired to visit, captivated me at first sight. I won’t claim it to be the best city in the world, but I pity those who only see it as filthy and filled with homelessness.
Limousin, a land of exquisite beef, a long tradition of porcelain making, and natural beauty. Wooded hills, green meadows, and mountain rivers — a magnificent combination. Limoges, an ancient Celtic city with 1,500 years of history, is now cosy, bright, and comfortable for a measured, unhurried life. Realtors may consider it a shithole but still, it boasts stately Gothic cathedrals, bridges, and cosy cafes.
Saint Leonard-de-Noblat, an old town with a Gothic cathedral, arched railway bridge, mediaeval festival, and modern infrastructure. Sauviat-sur-Vige, a village with shops and a school, with the most patient teachers I’ve ever met.
Here we are in the village (basically, a “place, called …” according to Google) of Le Nouhaud. For 140 inhabitants, there are all amenities (except heating, but that’s another story). Also a restaurant and even a mini-hotel were opened nearby our house.
Cows, sheep unafraid of people, amazing flora, and unusual fauna (e.g., red slugs or newts frozen in darkness). You won’t recognize all the biosphere representatives, and their French names don’t tell you much.
Garage sales with antiques for pennies initially look like sales of props from mediaeval novels. Gradually, you realise people have these things lying around in their attics, making you think the novels might be based on real events. You can also buy modern useful items like vacuums for pennies. And vintage perfume, of course.
Overall, it’s an ideal place to retire or escape from the world’s hustle and bustle. The ineffable beauty of nature undoubtedly has the power to heal the soul of all who seek such treatment.
