Categories: Occitanie, Toulouse Area
From Pig Farms to Gascony Tours: Jenine Lurie’s Journey
In this episode of Join Us in France, host Annie Sargent chats with Jenine Lurie, an American who left New York City to build a new life in the Gers, one of France’s most authentic and undiscovered regions. Jenine shares her inspiring story of moving from the hustle of NYC to the rural charm of the Gers, where she now runs Taste of Gascony, a tour business that immerses visitors in the local culture, food, and wine.
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Jenine’s connection to the Gers began 15 years ago when she volunteered on a pig farm in Montesquiou. That experience sparked a love for the region’s rural lifestyle, its medieval villages, and its warm, welcoming community. After reconnecting with the pig farm owner post-COVID, Jenine decided to make the Gers her permanent home. She bought a charming house in Bassoues, a village known for its medieval tower and panoramic views of the Pyrenees. Jenine’s story is a testament to the power of following your heart and embracing a slower, more meaningful way of life.
Taste of Gascony: Life, Food, and Tours in France’s Hidden Gers Region
Jenine’s passion for the Gers led her to create Taste of Gascony, a business offering immersive tours that highlight the region’s food, wine, and culture. Her tours take visitors to local markets, artisan workshops, and vineyards, where they can taste Côtes de Gascogne wine, Madiran, and Armagnac. Jenine’s goal is to give travelers an authentic experience of life in the Gers, far from the tourist crowds.
During the episode, Jenine and Annie discuss the unique appeal of the Gers. Unlike more touristy regions, the Gers remains largely undiscovered, with its rolling hills, medieval bastide villages, and a strong sense of community. Jenine explains how the region’s lack of public transportation and its rural setting add to its charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking peace, authenticity, and a connection to nature.
The Gers: A Place to Slow Down and Savor Life
Annie and Jenine also explore what daily life is like in the Gers. Jenine describes the region’s mild climate, where winters are short and springs arrive early. She talks about the joy of gardening, the beauty of the local markets, and the warmth of the Gersois people, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Jenine’s love for the Gers is infectious, and she encourages listeners to visit and experience the region’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
One of the highlights of the episode is Jenine’s discussion of the Gers’ gastronomy. The region is famous for its duck and foie gras, but Jenine’s introduction to the Gers began with pigs and charcuterie. She shares stories of her time on the pig farm, where she learned about the entire process of raising and processing pigs, and even helped sell the products at local markets. Today, her tours include visits to local producers, where visitors can taste everything from fresh baguettes and croissants to Armagnac and floc, a sweet aperitif wine.
Practical Advice for Moving to France
For those dreaming of a move to France, Jenine offers practical advice. She emphasizes the importance of learning French, even if it’s just the basics, and encourages newcomers to embrace the local culture. Jenine’s experience navigating the French bureaucracy, from securing a visa to buying a house, provides valuable insights for anyone considering a similar adventure.
Jenine also talks about the challenges and rewards of starting a business in France. She explains how her tour business, Taste of Gascony, has helped her connect with the local community and share her love for the Gers with visitors. Her tours are designed to be immersive, giving travelers a taste of what it’s like to live in the Gers, even if just for a few days.
Taste of Gascony: Life, Food, and Tours in France’s Hidden Gers Region
The episode also includes a discussion of the Gers’ cultural highlights. Jenine mentions the Jazz Festival in Marciac, a world-renowned event that draws visitors from around the globe. She also talks about the region’s art galleries, local festivals, and the vibrant community life that makes the Gers such a special place to live and visit.
Annie wraps up the conversation by highlighting the Gers’ appeal as a destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. She encourages listeners to explore the region’s medieval villages, taste its delicious food and wine, and connect with the warm and welcoming locals.
Magazine Segment: Paris Cracks Down on Illegal Airbnb Rentals
In the magazine segment, Annie shifts gears to discuss a timely topic: Paris’s crackdown on illegal short-term rentals. She explains how recent court cases have resulted in hefty fines for landlords who rent out properties without proper authorization. These fines, which can reach up to €81,000, signal a major shift in how Paris is regulating its housing market.
Annie breaks down what this means for travelers and why it matters. She notes that while the crackdown may reduce the number of short-term rentals available, it also ensures that the properties that remain are properly registered and compliant with local laws. This is good news for visitors who want to avoid last-minute cancellations or other issues that can arise with illegal rentals.
Listen and Subscribe
If you’re curious about life in the Gers or dreaming of a move to rural France, this episode is a must-listen. Jenine’s story is both inspiring and informative, offering a glimpse into the beauty and authenticity of the Gers. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply someone who loves to travel, Taste of Gascony: Life, Food, and Tours in France’s Hidden Gers Region will leave you eager to explore this hidden gem.
Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast app or on Spotify or YouTube using the links below. And if you enjoy the show, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps Annie continue to bring you stories and insights from across France.
Links to Places Mentioned
More episodes about the southwest of France
Table of Contents for this Episode
Table of Contents for this Episode
#JoinUsInFrance, #FrancePodcast, #TravelFrance, #FrenchCulture, #ExploreFrance, #DiscoverFrance, #FranceTravelTips, #RealFrance, #Francophile, #FranceAdventures,
#GersFrance, #GasconyTravel, #HiddenFrance, #MoveToFrance, #FrenchExpat, #RuralFrance, #SouthwestFrance, #FoodieFrance, #ArmagnacLovers, #BastideVillages,
#FrenchCountryLife, #OffTheBeatenPath, #TravelLikeALocal, #FranceBeyondParis, #SlowTravelFrance, #FrenchFoodTours, #LifeInFrance, #TravelInspiration, #FranceUnfiltered
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TranscriptCategories: Occitanie, Toulouse Area