The holiday maker

Sandy lives in New York City and has a fantasy about being able to speak French before she dies. She just spent three weeks on holiday here in Roquefort. Her business and personal travel has taken her to nearly 50 countries and her next trip is to Washington, DC where she will be attending the Obama Presidential Inauguration. Dawn Howard caught up with her to find out more...

DH: As an American here on holiday, what do you think of our little town?

Sandy: First, as a visitor, Roquefort les Pins is super convenient to reach from the Nice airport and well situated in a region that offers so much. It is very tranquil; the homes and yards are really lovely. The quality of life seems high. One can easily relax here and use Roquefort as a jumping point. 

DH: Is it your first time in Roquefort?

Sandy: Yes.

DH: Do you think you’ll come back, and if so why?

Sandy: I definitely plan to return, mainly because a good friend of mine has purchased a home here and he has extended a gorgeous open invite to visit again!

DH: Where’s your hometown?

Sandy: I was born 80 miles from the nearest McDonald’s, in a little town in the state of North Dakota called Wishek. The population is probably smaller than Roquefort.

DH: What is your favourite gadget, object or thing?

Sandy: In the winter, my heated mattress pad that ‘toasts’ my bed. Because it has been rather cold during the past month here I’ve been missing it!

DH: What’s your guilty food pleasure?

Sandy: Pommes frites – thin and very crispy are best.

DH: Would you choose the mountains or the beach for a day out?

Sandy: The mountains. To be honest, I appreciate a lake more than the ocean. That said, I’ve grown fond of the ocean walk at Cagnes-sur-Mer and the Promenade des Anglais in Nice near old town is stunning.

DH: What’s your favourite holiday destination?

Sandy: I rarely go to the same place twice, but cities in Europe that I’m always excited to re-visit are Paris, Rome, and Florence. My favourite vacations have been to Kenya and Alaska.

DH: What in your opinion does Roquefort lack?

Sandy: Some additional strolling, eating or shopping possibilities. Perhaps outdoor seating at the bakery and good coffee there too. And maybe a bike lane and bike rack near the shops.

DH: Did you make any New Year’s resolutions for 2009?

Sandy: None, zilch, zero. Since you ask, I almost feel guilty enough to make one up. But, honesty really is a good principle.