I’m not convinced of this title; I think it could use some work. But I like the alliteration with beer and bathrooms, though toilets would be a more appropriate word to use. I find it odd North Americans don’t generally use the word toilet unless they are referring to the actual device. But when there is no place to bathe (like in a public toilet), why use the words washroom or bathroom? Toilet is what it is, plain and simple, and Europeans don’t seem to be squeamish about using the word.
This is the potential title for an idea my friends and I have of creating a guide for cyclists in Provence for access to these three extremely important items. We thought of making it into a coffee table book, but that’s not practical. These three things, along with potable water, are key for all cyclists riding here, especially in the heat of the summer. And nothing is better than pizza and cold beer at the end of a long, steaming hot ride. The water is simply essential. As are the toilets… but these can be a challenge to find and are rather necessary for obvious reasons. So, I have been compiling a long list over the years, and it’s time to share.
But instead of a book, I am considering adding this resource to my website. Do you think it’s a good idea, a worthy endeavour? Every time I head out on the bike, I find more exciting information to share, like the pizza truck in Sault, after at least 10 years, is finally open at 11:30 instead of 15:00! This is a big deal for cyclists needing a quick snack at midday. And now it seems we have quite an improvement in the toilet situation. Just last year there was the addition of a perfectly good one at the tennis court parking in Villes-sur-Auzon, Sault now has three in their main parking, and I just found a very clean one in Savoillans. I know most must wonder what all the excitement is about, but just a few years ago, the state of toilets in France was bleak. Generally, it was not easy to find public ones, and the ones that existed were a fright. I won’t go into details, but it seems many towns have invested in clean, somewhat well-stocked toilets with soap and water. It’s such a treat.
Keep an eye out. I think I’m going to finally start this valuable—albeit quite specific—tourist guide to Provence!
