La Une in English

Welcome to Toulouse ! Students on the Dickinson program in Toulouse, France started the 2006-2007 year off well. The month of September was full of changes for us as expatriates: we learned—and are continuing to learn—how to live with French families and find our way around the city communicating only in French. Although we are well situated in some of the aspects of our new life in Toulouse, every day presents us with new challengers, whether it is a political discussion, a grammar lesson, or a class in a French university. The goal of this issue of La Une is to welcome the students, to share reflections and initial reactions, and, of course, to share aspects of “la ville rose” that haven’t yet been discovered by the Dickinsonians. Special thanks to the writers and photographers that contributed to La Une and to Stephanie Roberts for providing the English translation. Good luck to everyone! --Anna Cumbie, editor Le Capitole Le Capitole is a majestic building dating back to the 19th century that stands at the base of the Place du Capitole. Today, it serves as the office of the mayor of Toulouse, and as a theatre. Le Capitole also hosts the “Salle des Illustres” which reunites a collection of paintings from the 19th century. The work of Henri Martin, an artist from Toulouse, fills the building with a magnificent array of colors. “La place du Capitole” is, without question, the real center of Toulouse. This large plaza is bordered by lively cafés and stores. On Tuesdays and Saturdays there is an organic market, and a bazaar on Wednesdays. These markets offer a variety of goods such as bags, clothes, bread, and fresh vegetables. “La Place du Capitole” is also a cultural center; it’s a place where the population of Toulouse can come together for free concerts and other cultural events. So, when you come to Toulouse, don’t miss the Capitole. --Meredith Ship Birthdays in September 13 : Karen Birthdays in October 16 : Jane 27 : Kelly 31 : Yee

A weekend in Conques and Cordes-sur-Ciel Délices de Tunis From outside, passing by the shop window, you can simply fix your eyes on the incredible display of delicious desserts, all varied in color, and all arranged in organized piles. Upon opening the glass door to this small patisserie, Arabic love songs fill the atmosphere. You are surrounded by Middle-Eastern paintings that portray the 1001 Arabian Nights, and by beautiful brass and copper flasks. The assortment of copious desserts make the choice impossible. For example, there are almond Makrouads, spongy thick rolls coated in sugar and honey; there are small Istanbul cakes sprinkled lightly with cocoa and hazelnuts, there are Besboussas made in thin layers similar to Baklava with almonds and with cashew nuts. Hot mint tea is served in tea cups that resemble miniature genie lamps. If you have a sweet tooth, go visit this true diamond in the rough, either with a friend or alone. For something new, taste the gazelle horns with mint tea. You won’t regret it. Délices de Tunis is located at the Place Esquirol, just across the street from Midica next to the Brasserie. 22bis; rue des Tourneurs, Toulouse, 31000. --Heidi Kim Cliquez ici pour retourner à la version française.