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25 August
2010 | Next Flyer 8 September - submissions by 3 September please
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Aude & Ariege Flyer
Sent to 2900 recipients.
Please pass the Flyer on to others.
Seen something interesting? Share it with Flyer readers.
The Flyer is no substitute to making maximum effort in learning French
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"Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.
" John Fitzgerald Kennedy
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Bonjour!
I am very pleased to see so many new readers since the last Flyer. I hope you can continue to spread the word by sending me the email addresses of others who would like to receive it or those to whom you are currently sending it. And as it is now readable in any Google Translate language by clicking on the link above, why not send it all of your local Friends whatever their nationality?
Plans are progressing (slowly due to the deluge of new advertisers and readers) for the survey I will be conducting next month. As previously mentioned there will be a drawer with some useful prizes for those who receive the Flyer direct from me.
There appear to be five seasons in France, the four normal ones, spring, summer etc plus Rentree. And its quite ironic that two of the text books which won't be available to 15 year old students returning to French Lycees at the beginning of next month are on the subjects of Management and Economics.
The Syndicat National de l'Edition, which represents textbook printers, said its aim was for every student to have their textbooks by mid-October. "We've done as much as we can, but we don't have a magic wand," union representative Pascale Gélébart told the Journal du Dimanche.
Personally I think they could have worked harder to find a solution even if it meant having the books printed overseas, or cancelling printers holidays and working extended hours to have all the books ready for the beginning of term. I think its criminal that several weeks of the study year for 500,000 can be lost on such a simple issue.
I am becoming increasingly annoyed by the voiceovers on UK TV ads. One of my favourite actors is Timothy Spall, and his is the voice on the Wickes (a DIY store chain) ad currently running. He refers to "we at Wickes" during the commercial, now I am reasonably sure he is not shelf-stacking, working on a till or as a delivery driver for the company. In fact I am pretty sure he just popped in to a voiceover studio spoke his words and banked the cheque. Surely the idea of a familiar voice makes sense but not when the script tries to convince us that a well known actor works for the business the ad is promoting. Come on Timothy stop all this sillyness "it's got your name on it".
The repatriation of Romanies from France to Romania and Bulgaria has begun. It's a sort of modern version of the £10 pommes mixed with the deportation of criminals to Australia which Britain did in the 18th 19th and 20th centuries? It could be worse; it could be Devil's Island.
But are these people criminals? Maybe if they drive on the roads in August with a caravan they are. They are paid 300€ per adult and 100€ per child and it would appear can get straight in their vehicle and head back to France? And there is also something like 3000€ available for them to start a business in either Romania or Bulgaria.
The Pope has joined criticism of France's behaviour towards the Romanies, saying Jesus acted to bring together "men from every nation and every language". I am not sure the Catholic Church should at this point be criticising the actions of others as I feel "the plank is still in thine own eye".
The European Commission has said it is keeping an eye on events, saying France must respect fellow-Europeans' rights to free movement. Perhaps it is allowed because it's a paid movement not a free one.
Stuck for gift ideas? An anniversary, a birthday or even for Christmas (yes I know, but its only four months away, today!) Why not consider the gardening and cookery courses below?
And why not go first to the Gardener' Lunch at L'Espinet on Sunday week 5th September, eat well and listen to Anthea Guthrie sharing trade secrets for local gardeners, with some insights from behind the scenes at Chelsea. Since 2003, Guthrie has been awarded 13 Royal Horticultural Society medals, including one for best creative garden and best small garden.
Plant swap at Routier (rescheduled to Sunday October 10th)
This growing event will now feature John Price the Butcher, The Vinyl Solution, your way of disposing of your space-taking records via a long time friend and business associate who is coming over for the weekend. Can you mail me the approximate quantity, genre possibly mentioning a few artistes, and condition. He apologises that he is not interested in Classical. I am still working on the bringing over of a lot of daffodils and hopefully I will be able to let you know prices on the next Flyer.
Put it in your diary!
Steve
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My article last month prompted a couple of people, who are over age 70, to contact me and ask if they were eligible for Assurance Vie. The simple answer is yes!
For those taking out such an investment after age 70, unfortunately, the inheritance planning advantages are reduced, since the total amount of tax-free benefit that can be paid to all of your combined beneficiaries is only €30,500 (plus the investment return made on this portion of the capital that has been invested). However, one of the principal advantages of investing in Assurance Vie is the tax efficiency for you, whether you are under or over age 70. This is even more advantageous for those who need to top up pension income, perhaps because their pension no longer meets their needs (sadly, this has become more of a reality in these times, due to poor exchange rates). Clearly any tax bills that you get will also reduce your net income and so this month, I am focusing upon how you can avoid paying unnecessary taxes.
Let's take a married couple (or with PACS) living in France (this example works whether the couple is under or over age 70). He is receiving a pension of €15,000 per annum and she is receiving pension of €10,110 per annum. They have an income need of €24,000. Between them, they have bank deposits of €150,000 earning 2% (i.e. €3,600). This would result them paying French income tax of €1,029 and social contributions of €561, i.e. a total tax bill of €1,590 for 2010.
If they were to shelter their bank deposits within an Assurance Vie investment, particularly as they do not need to take any income from their capital, their income tax bill would be reduced to €462 and the social contributions bill to €126, i.e. a total tax bill of €588 for 2010. Hence, in this case, the total tax saving is €1,128.
Understandably, every case will be different and factors such as investment return earned and whether or not you are eligible for age allowances, for example, will affect the results. Nevertheless, you will always avoid tax if you shelter your capital.
Even if you do need to draw an income from your capital, this is always more tax efficient from an Assurance Vie than say, drawing the interest from a bank deposit. This is because every time you take a withdrawal from an Assurance Vie, it is considered that part of what you are withdrawing is a withdrawal of capital and so it is not taxable. For example, if you had had the investment for say 10 years and it had doubled in value, only about half of the amount that you withdraw would be taxable. This is a very simple way of explaining the part that would be taxable since, in reality, the actual calculation is a little more complicated! Nevertheless, it demonstrates that an Assurance Vie investment is more tax-efficient for you, as a French resident - whatever your age - than bank deposits and other types of investments (for example, ISAs and dividend income).
If you would like more information about investing on a tax-efficient basis for France (whether for saving on a regular basis or for investing an amount of capital), or any other aspect of retirement and inheritance planning, please contact me for more information either by e-mail at daphne.foulkes@spectrum-ifa.com or by telephone on 04 68 20 30 17.
Forthcoming Seminar
After the success of our last seminar in June, we will be holding another seminar on 8th October. The full agenda will be published shortly, however, I can say now that, amongst other things (for example, Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes (QROPS) and secure investment possibilities), there will be a presentation from one of the product providers that we use for investing client monies in an Assurance Vie tax wrapper. Hence, if you would like to make an early reservation for the seminar, please contact me, by e-mail at daphne.foulkes@spectrum-ifa.com, providing your name, number of people wishing to attend and a contact telephone number.
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With Care, You Prosper
Amsterdam Luxembourg Paris Cote d'Azur Barcelona Costa Blanca Costa del Sol Madrid Algarve
"The Spectrum IFA Group" is a registered trademark, exclusive rights to use in France granted to
TSG Insurance Services S.A.R.L. Siège Social: 34 Bd des Italiens, 75009
"Société de Courtage d'assurances "R.C.S. Paris B 447 609 108 (2003B04384)
Numéro d'immatriculation 07 025 332 - www.orias.fr
"Conseiller en investissements financiers, référencé sous le numéro F000184 par CIF-CGPC, association agréée par l'Autorité des Marchés Financiers"
www.spectrum-ifa.com
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Jon Oldham - Registered Builder
over 20yrs experience in UK and in France
based near Castelnaudary
all aspects of building work considered
free quotes given,
digger and dumper available
Tel 06 30 49 05 30 or 04 68 60 57 71
jon@oldhamassoc.com
SIRET No 521 775 882 00017
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Gardening Courses
La Petite Pépinière, 11160 Caunes-Minervois
Two day Introduction to Gardening in the Languedoc looking at the
problems of gardening in the Languedoc and how to cope with them - 30th
Sept and 7th Oct and 20th & 21st Oct
One day course on Propagation
growing your own plants from seeds,
cuttings etc - 21st September
Gill@lapetitepepiniere.com
www.lapetitepepiniere.com/
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 ? Name this vegetable? It was grown and bought recently in a market in the Aude. Click on the image to find out what it is
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 CHEZ JULIE
Produits Britanniques
ALL BRITISH FOOD
AND LOTS MORE
13 Route de Ventenac, CANET D'AUDE
Tel: 0468465773 or 0672806316
2 min from Canal du Midi and Ventenac,
5 min from Lezignan
10 min from Narbonne |
Open Tue, Wed and Fri 10.00 to 12.00 and 15.00 to 17.00 Sat and Sun morning 10.00 to 12.00 Easy parking
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YOUR ADVERT HERE mail@audeflyer.com
need help making your ad? design@audeflyer.com "So I can advertise in every Flyer for 6 months for only 275 euros and you will do my artwork - where do I sign?"
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Send the Flyer to a friend
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ITEMS FOR SALE
 FRIDGE/FREEZER
WHIRLPOOL A+ (white)
172cms h x 72cms w x 60cms d
Approx 290 cu lts + 80 cu lts
120 euros
 WATER SOFTENER
LEFF 2000
70cms h x 29cms w x 46cms d
150 euros
Nr Limoux
04 68 74 02 47
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The Interprofessional Melon Association appeals for more sales
"Charentais melons are sweet, juicy and an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C. And this summer, in their native France, there are just too many of them.
Faced with a surfeit of the yellow melons, the Interprofessional Melon Association appealed to consumers on Tuesday to go out and buy more of the popular fruit.
"We're in crisis because we've had very bad climatic conditions," the association's Bernard Miozzo told AFP.
Melons planted in May and June arrived two to three weeks late, coinciding with the on-time arrival of the June-July crop, he explained."
Expatica
Prices are falling and the fruit is delicious so please do your bit to support the IMA!
I have three in my fridge already.
Steve
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Vive la différence! Based on your initial search requirements, we offer a tailored service selecting only those properties that meet your needs.
We will assist you through the whole purchasing process, and offer a full range of after sales services to ensure you get the most out of your life and property in France.
Our experienced and professional multilingual team makes things as easy as possible for you and do not waste your time.
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THINKING OF SELLING? Call us on + 33 (0) 467 36 36 80 Free estimation
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We have an extensive choice of carefully selected buildings with everything ranging from quality homes up to luxury properties for sale in Languedoc-Roussillon - South of France
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Targeted property search upon request
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If you have been sent the Flyer from a friend and would like your own copy please subscribe it's free!
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The Property Page
The "Propery Page" continues to be one of the most viewed articles on the web site.
Property for sale
It is all too easy to get tired of reading superlatives in property details but when describing The Domaine de Loustalviel they are entirely necessary.

Let me explain - Domaine de Loustalviel is a hamlet which lies deep in beautiful rolling countryside with spectacular views of the Pyrenees; it consists of three gites with a 12 x 5 metre fenced and heated pool, plus a small caretaker's cottage. The gites have been restored to a high standard of luxury and convenience, but preserving many attractive original features.
The Domaine is just one and a half kilometres away (a fifteen minute walk) from Pech Luna a pretty hilltop village with a population of 87 people 1,000 ft up into the rolling foothills of the Pyrenees in the Languedoc region of South West France. Pech Luna is a local center with a church, a mairie, a school, and a serene air of calm and tranquillity. So, that much sort after location - in the heart of the countryside but with amenities close by.
The entire Domaine, including 3 hectares of grounds, is priced for sale at 625,000€. More, or less, land is available (up to 7 hectares) and there is also the possibility to negotiate to buy the houses separately with as much land as you require.
If this is your dream property and you are calculationg how you can afford this not so little piece of heaven you might like to take into account potential rental income - over the last 6 years gross rental income has averaged over 40,000€ per year.
For further details or to arrange a viewing of this beautiful and unique property, contact the owners Alison and Richard Samuel by email lepatron@pechluna.com
Long term rental October to May
If you are searching for a large family property to rent Kate and Kingsley have a beautiful 5 double bedroom home in Bellgarde available for long term rental October to May.
The property sits in 2 acres of grounds with stunning views of the pyrenees, just 2 minutes from the local village with all amenities - Grocers, bank, bakery, cafe, post office, butchers, primary school, hairdressers, doctors and dentist, and only 25 mins from Carcassonne, with its world heritage chateau, and international airport. 20 mins from Limoux with its blanquette wines both with full range of shops, restaurants, museums and entertainment. Midway between the mountains and the coast, 1 hours drive will get you to a ski resort or the beach!
The house would make a ideal base for house hunting and Kate and Kingsley would be happy to advise and introduce you to the area. Contact them by email kingsleyhodgkins@aol.com
House/Pet Sitter wanted
Simon got in touch because he would like to offer accomodation to a responsible able bodied couple from mid December 2010 to Mid January 2011 in his charming village house overlooking the Canal du Midi, cared for by friendly Cavalier King Charles and 3 resident cats, in exchange for keeping them warm and contributing Euros 125.- p.w.towards heating. It's a non smoking house, and a basic ability in French would be an advantage and character references are needed. So if you are an animal lover on the look out for a unique holiday experience or an opportunity to test drive life in France at a very reasonable cost please make contact with Simon on 0033 (0) 467934934 or e.mail wollens@orange.fr
Appartment for rental in Limoux
Neil and Lorna have a loft apartment in the riverside market town of Limoux (11300) available for rental. WiFi and TV hook-ups available. Within close walking distance of railroad station and Place de la Republique (the historic town square with covered archades, cafes and shops). Parking spaces available close by. Furnished with queen-sized bed, armoir, settee and side table, and dining room table and chairs. The kitchenette has small refrigerator and stove-top for cooking. The Bedroom overlooks the large living/dining room and kitchenette with views to the river. There is a shared entryway into apartment. Rental fee is 450 Euros/month includes utilities. The apartment would suit a couple or a single person - a great opportunity to experience life in a French market town ot to use as a base for house hunting (immobiliers close by) or just for a long winter holiday.
Contact Neil and Lorna neil-lorna@sbcglobal.net
Winter let in Caunes-Minervois
Gareth has a large village house available to rent between November and March.
Ensuite in most bedrooms, and several bathrooms, electric heating throughout, large kitchen with all amenities and terrasse . Situated in Caunes-Minervois, just 20 km from Carcassonne.
Available for a sensible rent for tenants with appropriate references. Contact Gareth on 0468780132
Looking for Somewhere to stay in return for work?
Vanilla has a tiny house in esperaza, 4 floors, just off the square - very charming and in perfect nick. No attached garden. She is hoping to find someone (or a couple) who will live there rent free for a few months after August, in return for work on her land which is a ten min walk up the mountain. She needs paths laying and fencing done, plus some steps - her husband is disabled and they need usuable routes creating.
If you would like more information please contact Vanilla vanillabeer@hotmail.com
Renting in france
A couple of people have asked me questions about leases in France - I have a little knowledge because my daughter now has a flat in Toulouse but I am not an expert so I was interested to see this article on AngloINFO about all things rental www.languedoc.angloinfo.com/
If you are an agent or property finder and would like to advertise please contact me on this link
 If you are looking for a property to buy or rent tell me what you are looking for and I will ask 2700+ people if they have or know of someone with a proprty that might be just what you are looking for. This is free of charge service but donations are always welcome.
As well as people looking for property the Property Page is also a place to advertise your property for sale. So if you have a small village house or a castle that you would like to sell just get in touch
Here are the properties currently featured.
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YOUR PROPERTY ADVERT HERE 50 EUROS
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Medieval fortified castle - Bordeaux 650,000€ |
Flat for sale in Sandwich, Kent £160,000 |
Residence with 21 ha of vines - Limoux 650,000€ |
Building land St Girons 89,000€ |
5 bedroom house near to Limoux 195,000€ |
Village house in Villepinte offers over 40,000€ |
3 bedroom Property Carcassonne 245,000€ |
Bordebasse du Lac long term rental |
Holiday property on the Atlantic coast |
Large village house & Gite in Routier 325,000€ |
3 bedroom Property Carcassonne 245,000€ |
Land for sale near Limoux 4,750 € p/acre |
House near Castelnaudary 160,000€ |
Building plot near to Esperaza 78,000€ |
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Restaurant LA MAISON DE LA BLANQUETTE
New Menu and New Chef |
Open for lunch and dinner every day except Sunday evening. Roof terrace & Caveau de dégustation 46 bis Promenade du Tivoli
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Tel: 04 68 31 01 63 |
11300 Limoux |
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PLUMBING & HEATING |
PLOMBERIE & CHAUFFAGE |
SARL apollo  |
Mark Hoskins - 7 years experience working in France (25 years in the UK) with local network of allied trades if required.
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ITEMS FOR SALE
Granny Grandad kit! One sturdy high chair, one equally sturdy baby bed and changing mat. All used a couple of times and no longer needed.
Price total €60
Citroen C2, 2005 manual gearbox only 24,000km full service history at Citroen garage. Diesel, parking sensor, rain sensor state of the art little car just ideal for driving round narrow lanes and super easy to park. I'd say one careful lady driver - but the cliché is bugging me! Price €6,500
Pakistani rosewood chest 62 x 61 x 47 cm . Pretty inlay design. €60 ono
Carcassonne
0468718740 or 00447732403611 normafinnes@yahoo.co.uk
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Train Crèche SNCF and the CAF have opened their first Railway Crèche at Roanne. It has been created in the former left luggage office, does it remind you of anyone?
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On A Lighter Note!
The other day I needed to pay a visit to A & E at the local hospital.
Not wanting to sit there for 4 hours, I put on a dark suit and stuck a badge that I had downloaded off the Internet onto the front of my jacket.
When I went in, I noticed that 3/4 of the people immediately got up and left. I guess they decided that they weren't that sick after all. I cut at least 3 hours off my waiting time!
Here's the badge. Feel free to use it the next time you're in need of quicker emergency service.
Click here to view the badge
It also works at the DSS. It saved me 5 hours.
At the Post Office, three minutes after entering, I had my choice of every cashier in the place.
Don't try it at McDonald's though..... at one branch the whole crew disappeared out the door so l never got my breakfast!
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Shutters
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Interior doors
Garage doors
Floors
Stairs
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James Gordon Roe General Builder & Carpenter Established for 10 years in the Aude |
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2001 Chrysler Sebring Convertible (LHD)
 full four seater, automatic, AC, electric everything, 71,000 miles, very good condition, UK registered, long MOT and tax. Surplus to requirements. Offers around €6200 (near Carcassonne) Viewing 0044 7802 613300
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missed an email or round at a friends see the latest Flyer at www.audeflyer.com
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English Butcher Welsh Lamb, Irish Beef, Gold and Silver Award winning sausages (1986) etc now available by post door to door.
www.johnpricethebutcher.com Prices may vary. Pre order and collect at Routier 12 September.
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