Blogs - Ann Halpin's Blog

I just wanted to send some pictures out from my recent trip to the Perigord region in Southern France. Everyone in the Abroadco group left very early to catch the 8am train so we could have the day to explore the region we were going to. Four hours later, we were dropped off to the amazing Lascaux. Lascaux is known for its famous caves and 'troglodytes' or houses and restaurants that have literally built into the mountain side.

Unfortunately, the weather was absolutely terrible so that canceled the trip for us to see how Foie Gras was made (even though I was somewhat pleased because I was not interested in that at all after I heard how they actually do it!) and to see how pigs find black truffles. The Perigord region is famous for their Foie Gras, Black Truffles, and walnuts. Instead, we went into a cave that displayed some of the oldest works of art ever recorded in the world. It dated back to 30,000 years and definitely was an interesting tour. That night, we headed back and everyone was able to buy some wine, meet everyone in the group, and just hang out.

We were woken up early to head to the Sarlat region. This may have been the most beautiful town I have ever been in. We went on a tour in the town that had quite impressive architecture. They had markets to buy Foie Gras, wines, and lots of other fun tourist things for the visitors in the area. After, we were treated to what could have been of the best French meals I've had so far on this trip. Stuffed and satisfied, we were able to go on a boat tour since the weather was nice and sunny. Here we were able to view the five castles in the area and other beautiful surrounding homes in the town.

It was a great weekend, my hotel room window opened to the most beautiful view and a creek ran right behind it.

I wanted to share this information with recently returned study abroad participants and current students abroad:

NAFSA: Association of International Educators and Abroad View are sponsoring the second annual Student Diplomat Essay Competion.  They are inviting  you to submit stories about how your undergraduate experiences have helped meet the US's need to understand global situations and compete in the global arena. 

Entrants are required to answer one of three essay questions.  The deadline for submission is November 15, 2007.  The winner will be awarded a cash prize of $150 and an STA Travel voucher worth $400.  The Student Diplomat Essay Competition is open to all U.S. students who have had an undergraduate study abroad experience, whether they are currently enrolled through an accredited college or university or have studied abroad since spring of 2003.

For more information on the Student Diplomat Essay Competition, visit http://www.nafsa.org/public_policy.sec/study_abroad_2/student_diplomat_essay.