I decided to take a leap and sign up for the immersion course in Ile de Ré.  I have been to France many times and love the people and the country.  I came here with the goal of understanding and speaking better French.

 

I was a bit anxious on arrival as my French was not advanced and I was not sure what to expect.  When I met Clarisse, I immediately felt at ease and taken care of.  I stayed in a nice apartment complex very close to the sea with a pool and steam room.  

 

We spent the morning with breakfast and coffee discussing a wide range of subjects.  As the hours progressed, I felt a bit more relaxed and was surprised by the words I understood.  Clarisse was very patient with me and corrected my mistakes gently.  

 

Some days we would have an outdoor excursion/tour and lunch.  There was homework to do in the afternoon which was interesting and much needed to get the full experience. One evening was a great conversation over drinks with Clarisse’s friends.  Another evening, we went to

Clarisse’s house for a lovely meal with her husband, Claude and her friends. It was great to be included in a French home dinner and I felt so welcome and at home.  

 

I was surprised myself by how I understood and became a bit more comfortable in speaking French. I am so thankful for Clarisse’s generosity, hospitality and patience.  I realized that I will probably make a lot of mistakes but I just have to TRY.

 

I highly recommend this immersion and I will never forget the experience in Ile de Ré.  Merci Clarisse!