Background Reading Prior to a Trip to Normandy, France
Normandy is an area of France situated on its northern coast, located on the English Channel. The site of many famous historic events and a popular vacation destination for both French and international tourists, Normandy welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Before setting out a trip to Normandy, consider reading one or more of the many background sources about the region.
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Considerations
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For the best variety of background reading before a trip to Normandy, try reading general travel guides; they will give you basic overview information about history, lodging, food, culture, sights, and events. For travelers on a budget, "Lonely Planet Normandy" by Jeanne Oliver is a must-read; it lists options for transportation, sightseeing, lodging and food at budget prices. For family travelers, "Frommer's Normandy with Your Family: The Best of Normandy from Charming Villages to Best Beaches" provides valuable background information about the region.
History
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Normandy is perhaps best known as the site of the historic D-Day invasion during World War II. On June 6, 1944, troops from America, Britain and Canada landed on the shores of Normandy to break the Nazi grip on Europe. The shoreline is home to several markers and monuments. For background reading on D-Day and its effects on Normandy, read one of many historic accounts of the battle. One of the most popular is "D Day: June 6, 1944: The Climactic Battle of World War II" by Stephen E. Ambrose. Another good historical book is "The Longest Day" by Cornelius Ryan.
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Features
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One of the most popular features in Normandy is Mont Saint Michel, a small island off of the coast. The village that covers the island is picturesque and hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. For historical background reading about the area, pick up Henry Adams' "Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres." For travel background reading, try the "Lightfoot Guide To The Three Saints Way--Winchester To Mont Saint Michel" by Babette Gallard, which describes routes for walkers, riders and cyclists in the area.
Geography
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Normandy's extensive coastline features many popular beaches and stunning limestone and granite cliffs. The Seine River flows through Normandy, and it meanders to form a memorable part of the landscape. For background reading on Normandy's geographic formations, try "The Discovery of France: A Historical Geography, from the Revolution to the First World War" by Graham Robb.
Types
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For general travel and background information, head to the Internet for quick reference reading. Wikipedia's Normandy section offers historical, cultural and other information about the region. The Western France Tourist Board's Normandy section provides an overview of attractions. For discussions about Normandy, head to Lonely Planet's Western Europe message boards.
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