Castelnaudary, France, is more than just a picturesque town; it’s a treasure trove of unique experiences. In our second week here, we discovered a world of effortless car shopping, remarkable hairstyling, enriching teen programs, festive holiday events, and surprising culinary gems. Join us as we share these magical moments and uncover lessons that highlight the charm and practicality of life in France.
Buying a Car in Castelnaudary: A Stress-Free Experience
Buying a car in Castelnaudary was a dream. Franck and I chose a Peugeot travel van for our family, and the process was nothing like the pressure-cooker car sales we endured in the U.S. With no haggling and no marathon dealership stays, the experience was efficient and pleasant. The director of Lelong et Fils, Nicholas, even provided a free rental car during our wait. He went above and beyond, offering to introduce us to local networks and future social events.
Discovering a Celebrity Hairstylist in Castelnaudary
At Coiff&Crew, I followed my intuition to meet Xavier, a world-renowned hairstylist. From David Beckham to Johnny Depp, Xavier has styled them all. Franck’s haircut had him raving about his best look ever, and Xavier’s touch gave me a haircut that celebrated my natural beauty. Castelnaudary truly hides gems in plain sight!
The Teen Club: Building Community and Character
Our daughter joined the local teen club, a place designed to keep teens engaged in meaningful activities. Kids can enjoy supervision after school, evenings, and holidays and be guided to get a career and stay off drugs and risky behavior. With a membership fee of just 20 euros, she gets access to games, fun activities, and opportunities to serve the community, like helping at charity events. It’s a wonderful initiative fostering community spirit.
Christmas Magic at the Port of Castelnaudary
The UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi was the backdrop for a festive Christmas market, complete with live roasted chestnuts, artisan goods, and a spectacular musical light show. It felt like stepping into a Hallmark movie. We connected with local farmers and artisans, celebrating their passion for sustainable practices. In the video, I show you what I bought and the farmers I met like Jerome and Patricia at Alchi'Miel and Camille and Cecile at L'odeur de la pluie. A photographer for the local Castelnaudary newspaper caught a snapshot of me and Franck talking with Jerome and Patricia.
Culinary Convenience: Discovering Picard
Picard, a French staple for high-quality frozen meals, made dinnertime simple and delicious. This week’s hit? Saumon en croûte (salmon in pastry crust). It’s a taste of luxury with minimal effort, perfectly complementing our new French lifestyle.
Understanding America’s Price Gouging
Shopping here highlighted the stark difference in prices between France and the U.S. Goods that cost a fortune in America were significantly cheaper in France. This disparity sheds light on monopolistic practices and the lack of corporate governance in the U.S., which I’ll explore further in my upcoming book, Bad Laws: How America’s Legal History Reveals The American Character.
Pursuing an LLM in International Economic Law
I’m applying for an LLM program in International Economic Law at the University of Toulouse. This academic pursuit will deepen my understanding of EU and French economic law, expanding on my passion for corporate governance.
What aspect of French life intrigues you most?
Affordable living
Meeting remarkable locals
Culinary culture
Community programs
Talk To Me
What part of French culture do you wish existed in your hometown, and why?
Five Empowering Affirmations
I am open to discovering new experiences in life.
My intuition leads me to incredible opportunities.
I celebrate meaningful connections in my community.
I value balance, simplicity, and joy in my daily routines.
I embrace learning as a pathway to growth and success.
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Watch Episode 2 of Leslie In Castelnaudary
Life The Good Life with Leslie Juvin-Acker: Embracing Emotional Intelligence, Intuition, and Social Justice for Lasting Fulfillment
Leslie Juvin-Acker, J.D., is a renowned expert in emotional intelligence, celebrated author, and intuitive life and career coach to top executives and celebrities. With a unique foundation in law, sociology, social justice, and a deep connection to spirit and intuition, Leslie brings a holistic perspective to life coaching. Her approach is not only shaped by an understanding of systemic issues and individual empowerment but is also guided by her ability to tap into intuition, providing clients with insights that help them connect more authentically to their own inner wisdom.
Leslie’s books and videos go beyond typical coaching by integrating practical tools for emotional intelligence, intuition, and spiritual awareness, with a strong focus on achieving balance, fulfillment, and resilience. With years of experience helping individuals transform their lives, she guides her clients to recognize and harness their full potential while encouraging a deeper understanding of the social structures that influence their journeys. Whether examining the impacts of corporate governance on individual well-being or advocating for inclusive, accessible education, Leslie’s work illuminates the powerful intersections of personal growth, social justice, and spiritual awareness.
Through her books, videos, and transformative speaking engagements, Leslie inspires audiences to break free from limiting beliefs, overcome social and emotional barriers, and cultivate lives of joy, success, and personal empowerment. Her insights are particularly valuable for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to improve their emotional well-being within a context that honors both the social landscape and their spiritual journey.
Invite Leslie Juvin-Acker to speak at your next event, and discover how her expertise in spirit, intuition, emotional intelligence, law, sociology, and social justice can elevate every aspect of your life, inspiring you to live a more authentic, purposeful, and spiritually attuned “Good Life.”
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