France: William Spitz (Daily Life in Tours)

Daily Life in Tours (La vie Quotidienne à Tours)

In the heart of the France one can find the city of Tours, a place that perfectly encapsulates the rich history of France. As a student studying at the Insitut de Touraine, I find myself enmeshed in the French culture each day that I walk to the institute as I take a path provided by the Boulevard Béranger. The boulevard serves as more than just a route to school every day, but as a glimpse into the daily life of the Tourangeau.

Boulevard Béranger, which runs through the center of Tours, offers a perfect snapshot of daily life in the city. As I walked along the boulevard each morning I was amazed by the beautiful architecture that reflected Tours’ long history, with buildings ranging from the middle age to the 21st century. Of which the one of the most notable buildings the grand Hôtel de Ville or city hall and as well as Place Jean Jaurès, a lively square where locals gather to relax, socialize, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

One aspect of Boulevard Béranger that enabled me to interact more closely with the locals as to improve my French was the weekly market that took place every Wednesday. This market was a completely new experience to me with vendors selling everything from clothes and watches to fresh fish and local cheeses. Experiences such as they underscore the amazing opportunities that come with studying abroad.

For students studying in Tours, Boulevard Béranger is not just a street but a quintessential part of the French experience, offering a mélange of culture, history, and daily life that is uniquely French. Whether you’re shopping for your next meal, practicing your French with locals, or simply walking to class, Boulevard Béranger is a must-see on your study abroad adventure in Tours.

 

William Spitz

Major: Pharmacology & Toxicology, Neurobiology, French

Hometown: New Berlin, Wisconsin

Program: UW Obesity & Health in Austria, Institut de Touraine French Language Program

Being the recipient of the Global Gateway Fellowship enables me to participate in these experiences without the worry that I cannot afford traveling abroad. Specifically, I can enjoy going abroad for longer and gaining more experience in a different country with the knowledge that the financial aspect is taken care of.

During my time abroad I would like to gain a better handle of the French language. The type of French that is spoken in the classroom is often not what conversational French sounds like. For this reason, I am most excited to talk with the locals and with my host family. I am most looking forward to learning about the history of Tours, France. My limited knowledge of the area tells me that there is much to explore in terms of Renaissance chateaus, history, and architecture.