biarritz, france orientation
Transcription
biarritz, france orientation
Biarritz, France BIARRITZ, FRANCE ORIENTATION 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France TABLE OF CONTENTS Living in France o o o o o o o o History French Culture Cultural Differences Religion Language: Français Map of France Conversions & Measures Shopping Sizes Biarritz – Your Host City o o o o o o History Food Beaches Language Orientation Nearby Sites School Info o o o BCFI Ecole de Français Classes Grading & Participation Excursion Guide o o o o Paris Bayonne San Sebastian, Spain St. Jean de Luz Important Contacts Sheet 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France LIVING IN FRANCE History The borders of modern France are approximately the same as those of ancient Gaul, which was inhabited by Celtic Gauls. Gaul was conquered for Rome by Julius Caesar in the 1st century BC, and the Gauls eventually adopted Latin speech and Roman culture. Christianity took root in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, and became so firmly established by the fourth and fifth centuries that St. Jerome wrote that Gaul was the only region “free from heresy”. In the 4th century AD, Gaul’s eastern frontier along the Rhine was overrun by Germanic tribes, principally the Franks. In 987, the first King of France was crowned. The monarchy reached its height during the 17th century and the reign of Louis XIV, when France possessed the largest population in Europe and had great influence over European politics, economy, and culture. French became, and remained for some time, the common language of diplomacy in International affairs. France began colonizing at the beginning of the 17th century, and gained possessions in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The monarchy ruled France until the French Revolution, in 1789. Louis XVI and his wife, Marie Antoinette, were executed, along with thousands of other French citizens. Napoleon Bonaparte seized control of the Republic in 1799, later naming himself Emperor (1804–1814). Through several wars, Napoleon conquered most of Europe, but he was finally defeated in 1815 at the Battle of Waterloo. The next 50 years were similarly tumultuous, rotating between a monarchy, an empire, and a republic, ending with a republic in 1870. During WWI, France was allied with Britain, Russia, and the U.S., and suffered heavy losses by the Germans. In the 1930s France was once again besieged by Germany, and the Nazis Germany established. France was liberated with the joint effort of the U. S., Britain, Canada, the Free French Forces, and the French resistance in 1944. Until the end of the war in 1945, France continued to fight alongside the Allies. The Republic was re-established after World War II and struggled to maintain its economic and political status as a dominant nation state, particularly after its colonial empire collapsed in the First Indochina War and the Algerian War. Recently, France has been at the front of the European Union push to create a more unified and capable European Union in politics, defense, and security. 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France French Culture France has much more to offer than its famed Eiffel tower, châteaux, wine, and beautiful southern beaches. It is, and has been for thousands of years, one of the cultural centers of Europe. France has an extraordinary artistic heritage. As founder of the Impressionist movement, artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir emerged. The most renowned French painter is arguably Monet, known for his nature scenes, such as Water Lilies. Foreign artists, such as Pablo Picasso, were drawn to France’s art scene. Paris is also home to the famous Louvre museum, which houses the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo statue. France's architecture ranges from Roman aqueducts of Nimes, the Arc de Triomphe (Arch of Triumph) in Paris, Gothic cathedrals, castles and châteaux, to the legendary Eiffel Tower. French food has a deservedly fantastic reputation, particularly for haute cuisine. Haute cuisine is mostly enjoyed in fancy hotels and restaurants and is defined more by the careful preparation, attention to detail, and elaborate service than by the style of food served. However, French cuisine goes well beyond haute cuisine, with emphasis on and fondness for cheese, fresh baguettes, and wine (like Bordeaux and champagne). Many French people are proud of the strong literary and philosophical heritage of their country. Rene Descartes has been called the “Father of Modern Philosophy,” while the writings of Voltaire and JeanJacques Rousseau influenced the French Revolution. The works of writers Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and Albert Camus are read around the globe and have been made into plays and movies. Cultural Differences As mentioned before, there are a number of cultural differences between France and the US. Here are a few culture tips to make your transition a little smoother: The French People Personal pride and individualism are highly valued. National pride is also highly valued; the French are easily hurt by insults to their country/origin/culture/language/food. Modesty is valued over assertiveness. Flaunting superiority, intelligence, or ability is not appreciated. Be patient. Nothing is done in a hurry. A French trademark is thoroughness over speedinessparticularly in matters that involve pride/possible criticism. 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France Meeting and Greeting Men may embrace each other when meeting (friends and family only). Men and women usually kiss each other on each cheek and embrace when meeting. Note: Some French speakers, such as Belgians, will kiss three times. Expect to be interrupted when speaking. Body Language Never touch, hug or pat a French person you do not know well, unless a friendly French person touches you first (other than the initial cheek kisses/embrace) upon meeting. The French speak a lot with their hands. Dining and Entertainment It is acceptable and common to be late by 15-30 minutes for social meetings. Lunches/dinners are vital to establishing a relationship. It is a time to see if the chemistry is correct and to develop trust. The French don't waste food. It is better to decline food rather than leave it on your plate. Dress Appearance is extremely important to the French. They dress elegantly, even for casual occasions. Wearing a t-shirt, jeans, and flip-flops is an immediate indicator of being a tourist. Gifts When invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift. Not doing so will result in your host thinking you to be rude. Something relating to the meal- quite often dessert- is usually the best choice. Give: pastries, cakes, chocolates, flowers (something casual- not roses). French Time Shops and businesses are usually opened from 9-10am to 12:30pm and from 3:00pm to 6-6:30pm though it has become more and more common for businesses to stay open through the traditional "lunch" hours. Business establishments are usually closed for a day and half per week, most often Saturday afternoon and all day Sunday, while many shops close only on Sunday. In tourist areas and during the summer, these hours are often expanded later into the night, with some shops being open every day. Restaurant hours are varied, with the norm being from 11:30 to 3:30pm for lunch and from 8:30 to 11:30pm for dinner. In summer, these hours are often expanded, with many establishments offering continuous service and still other serving food into the small hours of the night. 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France Religion Catholicism is the most common religion in France and is celebrated in the many churches and cathedrals you will see and visit, but France is also home to many Muslims, Protestants, and Jews. Regardless of your beliefs, experiencing a religious service in your country of study is an important part of understanding the culture. Due to France’s Christian past, its religious history is solidified by its beautiful cathedrals that coat the French countryside. Language French is one of the most widely dispersed languages with nearly 350 million speakers around the world. French is the official language in 31 countries, most of which lie in Africa. The largest number of French speakers is in France, but Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco have a combined French-speaking population of 70 million, which is greater than France’s population. 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France MAP OF FRANCE 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France CONVERSIONS, MEASURES & SHOPPING SIZES France, along with the rest of Europe, uses the metric system. Measurements of clothes and shoe sizes are also different. Weight multiply by 28.35 0.035 0.45 2.21 ounces to grams grams to ounces pounds to kilograms kilograms to pounds Length & Distance multiply by inches to centimeters centimeters to inches feet to meters meters to feet miles to kilometers kilometers to miles 2.54 0.39 0.30 3.28 1.61 0.62 Volume multiply by gallons to liters liters to gallons 3.79 26 Temperature o o o o C to F multiply by 1.8 and add 32 F to C subtract 32 and divide by 1.8 Fahrenheit: 0 Centigrade -17 14 -10 32 0 41 5 50 10 68 20 77 25 86 30 4 36 6 38 8 40 10 42 12 44 14 46 95 35 104 40 Clothes: Women’s Dresses US: 2 Europe: 34 Men’s Shirts 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France US: Europe: Men’s Pants US: Europe: 14 36 14.5 37 15 38 15.5 39 16 40 16.5 41 17 42 17.5 43 18 28 71 29 73 30 76 31 79 32 81 33 84 34 86 35 89 36 91 6.5 35.5 7 36 7.5 37 8 37.5 8.5 38 9 39 9.5 39.5 10 40 7.5 40.5 8 41 8.5 42 9 42.5 9.5 43 10 44 10.5 44.5 11 45 Shoes: Women’s Shoes US: 6 Europe: 35 Men’s Shoes US: 7 Europe: 40 BIARRITZ-YOUR HOST CITY Biarritz is one of the most popular beach resorts of the French west Coast. The town is located on the Bay of Biscay on the Atlantic Coast. Biarritz was originally established by the Vikings as a whaling village in the year 840. Since whaling was a profitable industry, Biarritz made its fortune as a whaling village for a thousand years. In the 18th century Biarritz became a destination for those of ill health. Doctors recommended Biarritz’s therapeutic ocean environment to cure ailments, resulting in many pilgrimages. Biarritz came to fame in the mid 19th Century, when Empress Eugenie (the wife of Napoleon III) fell in love with this part of the Basque country and built a Palace on the beach at Biarritz (which is now the world class Hotel du Palais) and a center with natural springs at Eugenie les Bains in the Landes. Eugenie invited foreign royalty to stay with their entourages and courtiers: Queen Victoria of Britain, who came regularly over a period of 30 years, Edward VII, Alfonso XIII of Spain, and various other European nobility were among the visitors. The principle architecture in Biarritz is not typically Basque, but rather a blend of 19th century city residences, large and expansive, made of local stone bricks. If you bought one of these 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France houses now, you would probably find titles such as the Prince, Duke, Baron, Marquee etc. on the title deeds. The Russian nobility even built their own magnificent Orthodox Church next to the Eugenie Palace for Russian visitors to use during their stays. Biarritz has a lot more than beautiful buildings to offer today. It's a vivacious cosmopolitan town with beautiful sights and magnificent beaches, which are said to be some of the best in Europe. Surfing started in France here in Biarritz and surfers come from all over the world to ride the waves. The Biarritz Surf Festival brings together surfers from Hawaii, California and Australia every year to celebrate the birth of surfing in Biarritz. BIARRITZ’S BEACHES A major Atlantic beach resort, the city is surrounded by many beaches, which makes it easy to find one that best suits your desires. La Grande Plage is one of the most beautiful and extensive beaches in Biarritz, stretching north to south from the bay between the Hôtel du Palais and the Bellevue. Located in the heart of the town, the Grande Plage is easily accessible by foot. La Cote des Basques was made famous in 1957 when an American film-maker was the first to surf here: thus, the first European surfing spot was born. Other beaches like the Milady beach and the Port Vieux are family-friendly and good for swimming. PORT VIEUX Since Biarritz was originally a whaling village, the Port Vieux (formerly called Vieux-port) was very important to the town. It was here that the whales were towed in from the ocean – but don’t worry, this hasn’t happened in quite a long time! The port is now a popular beach, with a beautiful horseshoe shaped stone building and staircases leading down to it. REGIONAL CUISINE The most famous local specialty is the 'Jambon de Bayonne', ham cured according to ancestral methods. Other Basque specialties include pibales or eel alevins, cod, hake, chipirones or squid, axoa (pronounce ash-oh-ah), a veal stew with red and green peppers. The famous piment d'Espelette (hot red pepper) adds spice to all these dishes. Duck is also a local delicacy with magrets (duck cutlets) and foie gras. The delicious ewe's cheese, Ardi Gasna, is served with black cherry jam. To finish on a sweet note, try one of Biarritz’s local chocolates, the traditional Gâteau Basque, touron (nougat) or muxus (pronounce mooshoo), delicate little macaroons whose name means 'kiss' in Basque. 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France NEARBY SITES ENJOY A WALK NEAR BIARRITZ Bayonne: Vauban ramparts, pedestrian centre, banks of the Nive, gothic Cathedral, cloister, Bonnat Museum, Basque Museum Anglet: La Barre (mouth of the Adour river), skating rink, pine forest, Chiberta lake, the beaches, the Chambre d'Amour cave Bidart: Chapelle de la Madeleine (scenic view), the church, the market square and the fronton (Pelote Basque front wall), the beaches and Parlementia chapel Guéthary: the port, the beach, the fronton square, Saraleguinéa museum Saint Jean de Luc: fishing port, Maison de l'Infante, Maison de Louis XIV, the beach and bay, the Pointe Ste Barbe, the church and pedestrian centre Le Phare de Biarritz (Lighthouse): Erected in 1834, 73 meters above the sea level and 248 steps to its summit, it dominates Cape Hainsart, which got its name from the oaks which used to surround it and have now been replaced by tamarisks. This cape marks the limit separating the sandy Landes coast from the rocky Basque coast. Hours: from 1 July to 31 August, daily from 10 to 12.30 and from 2.30 to 7 p.m. YOUR SCHOOL – BCFI BCFI BIARRITZ is a language school with the status of a French private school of higher education. BCFI Biarritz specializes in teaching French as a foreign language and its teachers are qualified teachers who are specialists in their field and are fully committed to helping you learn. It also boasts low staff/student ratios. You will have access to computers and a self-study room throughout class hours. Classes will be held with other participants from the program. Depending on student’s levels, some students may be placed in classes with other foreign students from around the world. FRENCH CLASSES Classes will be held Monday-Friday in the mornings for four hours a day including breaks. Directors will inform you of exact class schedules upon arrival. It is important to come prepared for class 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France each morning and to take advantage of each intensive, yet fun, class. The teaching method is unlike what is used at your school at home. All classes – grammar, culture, conversation – are focused on improving your speaking and understanding of the language. A placement test will be administered on the first day of classes to place students in the appropriate class levels. GRADING AND PARTICIPATION Once classes have started it is your responsibility to attend regularly and to take advantage of all learning opportunities by participating actively. No matter how much you already know, you will learn exponentially more French in your classes. These are college level classes and you are expected to behave in an appropriate manner. You will be evaluated on your participation and grades on exams. Grades will not be reflected on your diploma but you must not miss more than one day of class to receive full credit. IMPORTANT: It is important to save all of your coursework, including exams. Most colleges and universities require students to show the work they did while attending a foreign school. Directions to School Your host family will help guide you to school on your first day. BCFI Address: 4, rue Darritchon 64250 Biarritz (France) Tel. +33 (0)5 56 51 00 76 Emergencies: +33 (0)6 15 58 83 45 EXCURSION GUIDE *IMPORTANT* Not all excursions are included in each program. Sites are subject to change. PARIS Located in the north of the country on the river Seine, Paris has the reputation of being the most beautiful and romantic of all cities, brimming with historic associations and remaining vastly influential in the realms of culture, art, fashion, food and design. Dubbed the City of Lights, it is the most popular tourist destination in the world. Like any large city, please be observant of your surroundings when touring Paris. Paris is a relatively safe city, but pickpockets are active near busy tourist sights. 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France EIFFEL TOWER The Eiffel Tower was built for the International Exhibition of Paris of 1889 commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution. Gustave Eiffel's design was unanimously chosen in an architectural contest. However it was not accepted by all at first, and a petition of 300 names protested its construction. At 300 metres (320.75m including antenna), and 7000 tons, it was the world's tallest building until 1930.It was almost torn down in 1909, but was saved because of its antenna - used for telegraphy at that time. During its lifetime, the Eiffel Tower has also witnessed a few strange scenes, including being scaled by a mountaineer in 1954, and parachuted off of in 1984 by two Englishmen. The Eiffel Tower is now one of the symbols of Paris itself. INTERESTING FACTS: The Eiffel Tower is made of 15,000 iron pieces, plus 2.5 million rivets and 40 tons of paint. It took 300 steel workers two years to construct the tower. There are 1652 steps to the top, and the height varies up to 15 cm depending on the temperature. The tower can also sway as much as 12 cm in strong winds. THE LOUVRE MUSEUM The Louvre is one of the most famous and most visited art museums in the world. It contains one of the most comprehensive collections, including nearly 35,000 pieces displayed over the structure's 650,000 sq ft.The structure originated as the palace during the Capetian dynasty under the reign of Philip II, and now holds some of the world's most famous works of art, such as Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa; Delacroix's Liberty Leading the People; and Alexandros of Antioch's Venus de Milo. INTERESTING FACTS: The Louvre Pyramid was created because of a series of problems with the Louvre's original main entrance, which could no longer handle an enormous number of visitors on an everyday basis. The structure, which was constructed entirely with glass segments, reaches a height of about 70 feet; its square base has sides of 115 feet. It consists of 603 rhombus-shaped and 70 triangular glass segments. Visitors entering through the pyramid descend into the spacious lobby then re-ascend into the main Louvre buildings. NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL The Notre Dame is widely considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The name Notre Dame means "Our Lady" in French. Notre Dame de Paris was one of the first Gothic cathedrals, and its construction spanned the Gothic period. Its sculptures and stained glass show the heavy influence of naturalism, giving them a more secular look that was lacking from earlier Romanesque architecture. Notre Dame de Paris was among the first buildings in the world to use the flying buttress. The cathedral suffered desecration during the radical phase of the French 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France Revolution in the 1790s, when much of its religious imagery was damaged or destroyed. During the 19th century, an extensive restoration project was completed, returning the cathedral to its previous state ARC DE TRIOMPHE (TRIUMPHAL ARCH) The Arc de Triomphe is a monument that stands in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The arch honors those who fought for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. On the inside and the top of the arc there are all of the names of generals and wars fought. The monument stands 165 ft in height, 148 ft wide and 72 ft deep. It is the largest triumphal arch in existence. INTERESTING FACTS: The Arc de Triomphe is so colossal that three weeks after the Paris victory parade in 1919, marking the end of hostilities in World War I, Charles Godefroy flew his Nieuport biplane through it, with the event captured in a newsreel. BAYONNE In the 3rd century AD, the area of Bayonne was the site of a Roman military camp. In the 840s, Vikings appeared and settled outside the city on the river bank. By the 12th century the city was an important port, with a mixed Basque and Gascon population. Bayonne was ruled by England from 1151 to 1452 and was a key commercial centre at the southern end of the English kingdom. After the 100 Years War, Bayonne became a part of France. Bayonne endured numerous sieges until the end of the First French Empire in 1814. In the 17th century, large fortifications and the Citadel were built, proving crucial in 1813 and 1814, when an army besieged the city in the Napoleonic Wars. CATHÉDRALE STE-MARIE The twin towers of Bayonne's Gothic Cathédrale Ste-Marie soar above the city. Construction began in the 13th century, when Bayonne was ruled by the Britain, and was completed well after France assumed control in 1451. The nave's vaulted ceiling reflects these political changes: both the English coat of arms (three lions) and that most French of emblems, the fleur-de-lys are displayed. Above the north aisle are three lovely stained-glass windows, mainly Renaissance with 19th-century neo-Gothic additions. INTERESTING FACTS: The site was previously occupied by a Romanesque cathedral that was destroyed by two fires in 1258 and 1310. Construction of the present cathedral began in the 13th century and was completed at the beginning of the 17th, except for the two spires which were not finished until the 19th century. LES REMPARTS (TOWN FORTIFICATIONS) Of the three systems of fortification successively built during the fifteen centuries, the oldest form today is the large and double belt of old stones around the old high city. The royal engineers of the 17th century surrounded this continuous enclosure with another series of works. One can thus see a whole system of fortifications of various times: Roman wall, medieval wall, the wall of 16th century (known as 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France that of François I), and works of the 17th century. In Petit Bayonne, the ramparts repeat and preserved the beautiful Door of Mousserolles with its bridge levies. INTERESTING FACTS: The size and shape of each bastion is very different, and there are varying lengths between them, which makes the fortifications seem less regular than some. This is probably due to the way Bayonne was fortified in several stages, with improvements added gradually. The citadel is intact, though it is still in the hands of the French Army, and therefore not open to the public. SAN SEBASTIÁN, SPAIN Located on the beach in the rolling hills of northern Spain, San Sebastian presents itself as an inviting, enchanting city where old and new meet. For years European families have traveled here to relax or surf on the city's pristine beaches. San Sebastian was founded in 1524, and the old town, "el casco antiguo," is built on a sandy isthmus connecting the mainland with the steep peninsular point of Monte Urgull Park. The park is encompassed by the 16th-century fortress of La Mota and makes for peaceful walks and provides breath taking views of the Cantabrian Sea. "La parte nueva," the new part, spreads inland along the banks of the river and is a hub for high end shopping and art galleries. The Palacio de Miramar, the Spanish royalty’s former summer residence, has been used for some years by the University of Basque Country as a small campus site in San Sebastian. The city serves as the capital of the Guipuzkoa province and has evolved into a culturally rich cosmopolitan destination PLAYA DE LA CONCHA Playa de la Concha is San Sebastián's most popular beach and the largest for summertime swimming and sunbathing. Playa de la Concha looks out onto a sparkling bay and is surrounded by a lush, rolling countryside. As evening strikes, the beach is bejeweled with white lights, including along the path that lines the beach and the statue of Jesus that stands high above the city, overlooking everything. Reflecting off the water, the beach has an enchanting mood at night. During the day, water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and sail boating, are the popular activity. La Concha also has a lovely promenade where you can take relaxing strolls after a hearty meal. MIRAMAR PALACE Miramar Palace, also known as the Royal Country House of Miramar, is another attraction in San Sebastián. It is located above the "Pico del Loro," marking the strategic junction of La Concha Beach and Ondarreta Beach, and 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France also the dividing point in the long promenade between two city districts: "El Antiguo" and "Miraconcha". The Palace marks the city's historical origin, because it is based on the plan of the old church of San Sebastián, the original urban center of the town. The magnificent palace complex, with its park, gardens, several buildings and outbuildings, is a perfect place to visit in summer. ST. JEAN DE LUZ, FRANCE A beautiful seaside resort and active fishing port not far from the Spanish border, Saint Jean de Luz is a lively and cosmopolitan town. The town center of St Jean de Luz has a medieval background, with no doubt, a great deal of influence in the past from Spain and the Moors, and with this mixture of architecture, old World charm, old buildings, fishing port and narrow lanes, there is an atmosphere even if the town is full of tourists of all nationalities, everyone gets along, especially at the time of the jazz fete in the streets. ST. JEAN-BAPTISTE CHURCH The oldest part of the church of Saint Jean-Baptiste dates from the 15th century, and is where the marriage of Louis XIV and Marie Thérèse of Spain was celebrated. The building still retains traces of this event: the doorway through which the royal couple passed is now walled up. In the interior, the church is made up of a single nave topped by three floors of magnificent wooden galleries. The church of Saint Jean-Baptiste has remarkable acoustics and is the setting for concerts and events during which one can admire the excellence of its fine organ case dating from the 17th century. Important Contacts: On-Site Director Cell Phone Numbers: (Will be provided upon arrival) SPI Head Director: _______________________ Assistant Director:_______________________ Assistant Director:_______________________ SPI Main Office: (Please EMAIL for all non-emergencies) From US: 1-866-502-7505 From Spain: 001-512-502-7505 SPI Email: [email protected] BCFI Biarritz: Director: Phillipe Lacoste & Isabelle Charbonneau From US: 011+33+667 939 534 Mobile From France: 667 939 534 Mobile 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected] Biarritz, France Emergency Numbers: General Emergency: DIAL 15 112 cell phone (Similar to our 911) Police 05-59-012222 Police (emergency) 17 Ambulance 15 Fire 18 Tourist Info Center Biarritz Tourisme 1, Square d’lxelles Tel: +33 05-59 22 3710 Open every day 9am-6pm in June Open every day 9am-7pm in July (Sundays 10am-2pm) Biarritz Lost & Found Tel.: 05 59 41 59 70 Post Office Main Station: 17, rue de la Poste 05 59 224112 Train Stations Tickets for all across Europe go to: http://www.raileurope.com/us/rail/tgv/index.h tm Regional Trains: http://www.sncf.f Hospitals & Health Clinics Hospital de la Cote Basque 13 av Interne Jacques Loëb 64100 Bayonne Tel. Main 05-59443535 For Doctors: 05-59-240101 Emergency Doctors: 05-59-033000 24 Hour Pharmacy: 05-59-012222 U.S. Embassy Paris 4, avenue Gabriel 75008 Paris (Métro Concorde) Tel: 01.43.12.22.22 Website: http://france.usembassy.gov Email: [email protected] Fax: 01.42.96.28.39 (Passport Unit) Public Transportation STAB Bus Transportation Visit www.bus-stab.com for schedules and routes. Cost is around €1.20 per ride. Taxis Look for a taxi stand before trying to hail one down. To call a cab: 05.59.23.18.18 11149 Research Blvd. Suite 100 Austin, TX 78759 USA www.spiabroad.com I 512-502-7505 phone I 512-532-0803 fax I [email protected]