France National Strike

On the road to Cognac today. There is a day of National strike across France. Apart from the difficulties with pre booked rail tickets we thought that we were free of other issues. However, as we drove along the freeway there was little vehicular traffic which we had considered unusual. After travelling for almost 100 kilometres we saw a blockade across the entire carriageway of the freeway but heading in the opposite direction. All traffic, trucks and cars were prevented by passing as people had erected a tent across the two lanes of the road. With no options for reversing or turning around there was a queue of many kilometres where trucks and cars just stopped and parked on the road. It was obvious that approaching motorists were as oblivious as were we to the situation. I felt sorry for young families stuck for who knows how long. Cognac is where we will be tonight as we will not tempt fate with other road blocks. What does one do when they cannot go anywhere? Thought that you'd never ask. Both Stephen and I had our hair cut. Never been to a place where we had joint haircuts before. To make the event a little more interesting the stylists didn't speak English. I asked for a short haircut and was not sure exactly what to expect. I like the end result. A change is as good as a holiday and that's what I'm on, so happy holiday to me. Tonight there was a gathering of flag waving people marching about the town. Church bells rang continuously, fireworks were discharged and some in the group blew whistles as they called and sang their protests to all who were in range. There was a police presence but we retreated hastily from the cobbled walk back into our hotel. After a quick wine it was again a pleasant place to stroll down the mall and take in the shops. I can highly recommend the Heritage Hotel in Cognac. Its decor is colourful and it is well appointed considering some of the gites that we have seen. The light fittings are themselves works of art. The restaurant's food was delicious and exceptionally cheap. Try the citron sorbet. Love the artworks and the lights of every description in every room. We chose a room with a bath and we were certainly not disappointed. Remember to see the chandelier in the dining room as it is exquisite!