Visitors ..... please....

Absolutely NO recreational drugs of any kind are allowed, even if not used.

And there's No Smoking anywhere inside the house.

and please do NOT to bring these things!!!

Derek is both sensitized to and allergic to a base chemical that is used in most British (and other...) perfumes, anti-perspirants and fabric conditioners, etc. It is not so much the smell that troubles him but the taste; he finds it very unpleasant. It lingers for a long time and ruins his meals. He often has to leave any room where it is present.
Our solution is to stop it being present.

Please don't think that just because you can't smell or taste something it is OK. It probably won't be. The chemical is persistent and stays on clothes for days or even months, even after washing; anti-perspirants, after-shaves and fabric conditioners, etc., do not wash off easily...

So if you are visiting us please help by not bringing any of the following (or, if you do bring them, please do not use them):

• Pre-shave

• After shave

• After sun

• Anti-perspirants

• Deodorants

• Fragrances

• Scents (but natural fragrances such as Eau de Cologne and Lavender Water are OK)

• Hair sprays

• Men's hair creams, etc.

• Fabric conditioners

• Nothing that has ever been treated with fabric conditioners!!!!

• Shower gels

However, don't bring Lavender Water - they make it here, where it's better and cheaper.

You can use our materials or buy the items in France (so long as they don't offend).

The 'Simple' range of toiletries and non-perfumed hair sprays (from Boots) are OK.

Things to bring to Saint Alexandre

• Our area is great for hiking so bring suitable footwear. Lightweight boots are best. Strong shoes (suitable for walking on rough, stony ground and rocks) and "Trainers" are OK.

• A small, very lightweight rucksack. A 'Camelback' is best.

• A cagoule (lightweight is OK)

• A baseball-type cap (especially with a long peak).

• Sunglasses

• If you bring a musical instrument you can play it but not in the main living room because it might irritate others.

• If you want to eat Tesco muesli please bring your own. That's because we use them every breakfast and have to carry them from Chester in our 10lb RyanAir allowances.

Other information:

• We are very 'green' and ecological. We waste nothing, especially water - ours is the most expensive in all France! We hope that you an do as we do...

• If you don't speak any French please try to learn the essential basics, especially the niceties of meeting and leaving people, and saying "please", "sorry", "pardon" and "excuse me".

We apologise for all the above but thank you for your understanding,

Derek & Jean

Version 29 Nov 2008