Sandi Toksvig Delights in France's Literary Legacy on Riviera Rail Trip
In her charming new travelogue, Great Riviera Rail Trip, comedian and writer Sandi Toksvig embarks on a four-episode journey along the French south coast, capturing the essence of the region with infectious enthusiasm. As she travels from Sanary-sur-Mer to Hyères, Saint-Tropez, and beyond, Toksvig weaves a narrative that is as much about the Riviera's literary history as it is about its stunning landscapes.
Toksvig's passion for words and writers shines through in her interactions with locals, who regale her with stories of famous artists and intellectuals who once called the region home. Her conversation with the man maintaining les pointus, wooden boats so-called because they are pointy, may falter due to language barriers, but the beauty of the azure waters ensures that all is forgiven.
The author's love affair with the Riviera is evident as she visits the chateau and gardens established by Edith Wharton in Hyères. Toksvig's excitement is palpable as she delves into the American writer's life, likening it to her own writing process: "This is one of the best days of my life! Let's take our ice-creams with us!" The bookish traveller will delight in Toksvig's recitation of a Wharton poem, which rounds off what looks like a perfect day.
While Toksvig's narration occasionally relies on repetition and clichés, her genuine enthusiasm for the region and its literary history prevails. Her encounters with locals, from fishermen to artists, offer a glimpse into the Riviera's rich cultural heritage, even if they don't always yield profound insights.
A highlight of the series comes when Toksvig meets a couple from Bradford who are QI fans. Her engaging story about Saint-Tropez being named after a headless knight wins them over, and their conversation is a welcome respite from the more mundane scenes that punctuate the journey.
As the first leg of her trip concludes at a hilltop vineyard, Toksvig sips on an organic rosé infused with the warm scent of salt breeze. It's a moment to write home about, indeed – one that embodies the essence of this delightful travelogue and its author's irrepressible charm.
Ultimately, Great Riviera Rail Trip is a bibliophile's fantasy come true: a joyous celebration of France's rich literary history, paired with stunning scenery and the infectious enthusiasm of Sandi Toksvig. Whether you're a book lover or simply looking for a feel-good travelogue, this series has something to offer – and that's no small miracle.
In her charming new travelogue, Great Riviera Rail Trip, comedian and writer Sandi Toksvig embarks on a four-episode journey along the French south coast, capturing the essence of the region with infectious enthusiasm. As she travels from Sanary-sur-Mer to Hyères, Saint-Tropez, and beyond, Toksvig weaves a narrative that is as much about the Riviera's literary history as it is about its stunning landscapes.
Toksvig's passion for words and writers shines through in her interactions with locals, who regale her with stories of famous artists and intellectuals who once called the region home. Her conversation with the man maintaining les pointus, wooden boats so-called because they are pointy, may falter due to language barriers, but the beauty of the azure waters ensures that all is forgiven.
The author's love affair with the Riviera is evident as she visits the chateau and gardens established by Edith Wharton in Hyères. Toksvig's excitement is palpable as she delves into the American writer's life, likening it to her own writing process: "This is one of the best days of my life! Let's take our ice-creams with us!" The bookish traveller will delight in Toksvig's recitation of a Wharton poem, which rounds off what looks like a perfect day.
While Toksvig's narration occasionally relies on repetition and clichés, her genuine enthusiasm for the region and its literary history prevails. Her encounters with locals, from fishermen to artists, offer a glimpse into the Riviera's rich cultural heritage, even if they don't always yield profound insights.
A highlight of the series comes when Toksvig meets a couple from Bradford who are QI fans. Her engaging story about Saint-Tropez being named after a headless knight wins them over, and their conversation is a welcome respite from the more mundane scenes that punctuate the journey.
As the first leg of her trip concludes at a hilltop vineyard, Toksvig sips on an organic rosé infused with the warm scent of salt breeze. It's a moment to write home about, indeed – one that embodies the essence of this delightful travelogue and its author's irrepressible charm.
Ultimately, Great Riviera Rail Trip is a bibliophile's fantasy come true: a joyous celebration of France's rich literary history, paired with stunning scenery and the infectious enthusiasm of Sandi Toksvig. Whether you're a book lover or simply looking for a feel-good travelogue, this series has something to offer – and that's no small miracle.
You'll fall in love with this charming travelogue - it's all about embracing new experiences and discovering the beauty in everyday moments. The author's infectious enthusiasm is contagious, making you want to hop on a train and explore the French Riviera yourself! 
she really does have this infectious enthusiasm that makes you wanna hop on the train too! and i love how she weaves in the literary history of the region - it's like a treasure hunt for book lovers 
. the way she interacts with locals is so charming, even when there are language barriers 
. what i'd say is that her writing could be a bit more concise, but overall it's just such a joyful read 
.
! Her passion for words and literature is so infectious, it's like she's got this magic spark that brings the Riviera to life. I loved how she geeked out over Edith Wharton's chateau in Hyères - girl knows her stuff! 
And can we talk about her enthusiasm? It's like she's sipping rosé on a hilltop vineyard and it's just the most delightful thing ever 
. The way she meets the QI fans from Bradford is also hilarious 
, I was dying laughing over that part! But what really gets me is how much joy she finds in the little things - like ice-creams on a boat ride or reciting Wharton poems under the sun. It's just so... Sandi Toksvig 
. If you're a bookworm or just looking for a feel-good travelogue, this is the perfect pick!
A whole rail trip just for the Riviera? Sounds like Sandi Toksvig had the time of her life, and who can blame her? The French south coast is literally stunning 
I mean, I'd trade my keyboard for a lifetime supply of organic rosé any day 
Give me all the literary history vibes! 
! As someone who's always down for a good bookish adventure, I can already imagine myself sipping rosé at a vineyard in Hyères, feeling like I'm living vicariously through her. The fact that she gets to meet locals and share their stories about famous artists and intellectuals makes me super excited! 
However, I do think it's worth noting that the narration could get a bit formulaic at times – repetition and clichés can be distracting 
. Still, Toksvig's genuine enthusiasm and infectious energy make up for it. The story about Saint-Tropez being named after a headless knight is also a total winner 
she really makes u feel like ur part of the story, even wen she's talkin to locals who dont speak english 
. overall tho, i def gonna read this series ASAP - can't wait 2 b swept away by her love 4 france & its literary legacy 
. I mean, the Riviera is definitely pretty, but is it really worth traveling half way around the world for? And what's with all the emphasis on literary history? Don't get me wrong, I love a good book as much as the next person, but I'm not sure how many of us would be like "ooh, did you know Edith Wharton had a chateau in Hyères?" 
. The part about her meeting those QI fans from Bradford is so funny 
Such a cute story! I'm totally buying this book ASAP 
. But honestly, who wouldn't want to read about the rich literary history of France and its stunning landscapes? I'm definitely adding this one to my wishlist 
.