The French Connection: My Guide to Studying and Living in France | Art of Saudade

France has always been a popular destination for students looking to study abroad. With its world-renowned universities and cultural attractions, it’s no wonder why so many students choose to make this beautiful country their home. When it comes to education, France boasts some of the finest universities in the world, including the famous Sorbonne University in Paris and Sciences Po in Lyon. These institutions offer … Continue reading The French Connection: My Guide to Studying and Living in France | Art of Saudade

Best Things To Do In Montpellier, France | The Perfect 3-Day Trip | Art of Saudade

Montpellier is one of the cities you must see once you are in the south of France. This place has everything: whether you’re interested in culture, history, street art, local and international cuisine, nature, sports, or beaches, this vibrant city will find its way to attract and impress you! Check out why Montpellier’s street art is so special: Day 1 – The Culture Day Musée … Continue reading Best Things To Do In Montpellier, France | The Perfect 3-Day Trip | Art of Saudade

Discover The Medieval Mikveh of Montpellier, a Jewish Ritual Bath of Purification | Art of Saudade 

Architecture is the best storyteller. In Montpellier, there is an underground bath that was discovered by chance under the floor of a cellar by a private individual, in 1985. This takes us back to 1306 when the Jews living in Montpellier were expelled from the city by Philip IV of France and settled in nearby towns in the south of France, such as Avignon. In … Continue reading Discover The Medieval Mikveh of Montpellier, a Jewish Ritual Bath of Purification | Art of Saudade 

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas In Montpellier, France | Art of Saudade

It’s November and the most beautiful facades of Montpellier’s historical buildings are already highlighted by Christmas lights and music. Montpellier organized a dreamlike Christmas show, another way for you to discover the historical and cultural heritage of this wonderful city located in the south of France. In the meantime, Montpellier has something else to offer you: You can love or hate Christmas, but it’s hard … Continue reading It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas In Montpellier, France | Art of Saudade

Why Literature Matters | Roland Barthes On The Real Meaning Of Words | Art of Saudade

Who was Roland Barthes? Roland Barthes was born in the middle of World War 1, an event that marked him for life. Raised during the bloodshed that devastated Europe, Roland found refuge in literature. He dedicated his life to literary creation and criticism and, by the end of his 40s, he managed to publish his collection Mythologies, where he gathered myths of popular culture. He … Continue reading Why Literature Matters | Roland Barthes On The Real Meaning Of Words | Art of Saudade

German minimalist aesthetics versus French gothic architecture | Photo Gallery | Art of Saudade

French cathedrals are characterized by stained glass windows, lots of colors, and decorative elements. Contrastingly, I found German catholic churches to be incredibly minimalistic, so minimalistic that they almost look Protestant. Minimalism seems to be a common trait in German architecture, so it is no wonder that Protestantism with its minimalistic approach was founded in Germany.  French Gothic Cathedrals | Photo Gallery Could you spot … Continue reading German minimalist aesthetics versus French gothic architecture | Photo Gallery | Art of Saudade

Poetry as an Act of Freedom | Jim Morrison in Paris | Art of Saudade

The king is dead, long live the king!  Ben Franklin said that some people die at age 25 and aren’t buried until they are 75. Jim, on the contrary, was buried at age 27 yet his legend lives on. You may know Jim Morrison as the lead vocalist of The Doors, a historical figure, or a rock’n’roll icon. I know him as a poet. “Riders … Continue reading Poetry as an Act of Freedom | Jim Morrison in Paris | Art of Saudade

5 Reasons Why Visiting Marseille Is A Good Idea | Myths & Clichés Debunked | Art of Saudade

The mild Mediterranean climate, a complex fusion of cultural and historical heritage, and inspirational contemporary artists… These are some of the reasons why you should consider adding Marseille to your bucket list. Mediterranean Climate Marseille is one of the French cities with the most pleasant climate. If you want to enjoy the Mediterranean sun, Marseille is waiting for you in the summer. If you decide … Continue reading 5 Reasons Why Visiting Marseille Is A Good Idea | Myths & Clichés Debunked | Art of Saudade

7 Cities, 7 Sunsets | Art of Saudade

“Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson There is something special about sunsets. Observing the sun setting comforts me. No matter where I go, the sun melting on the horizon brings me one message of hope: you are home. One of my favorite hobbies is capturing these magical moments of the day. Here are my top 7 sunsets from … Continue reading 7 Cities, 7 Sunsets | Art of Saudade

Writing Poetry In A Minority Language: The Story Of The Occitan Poets | Art of Saudade

If life in the Middle Ages was rough, imagine being a speaker of a regional language in 20th century France, when the government banned the use of minority languages. For Occitan poets, the struggle to preserve their authentic language and culture only got harder. The Occitan language is a Romance language spoken in Southern France. However, it has no official status in France. In the … Continue reading Writing Poetry In A Minority Language: The Story Of The Occitan Poets | Art of Saudade