Dr. Julie Tromme helps keep residents of the Haute Valley functioning from the health center in Axat. During the recent coronavirus pandemic, she was forced to “reorganize thought” on dealing with the crisis.

Summer months are usually a vibrant time here. Tourists descend from around the EU and beyond, the terraces of the bars and cafes overflow, reservations are essential at restaurants, and day markets are jammed.

Julie and I have been under lockdown in two different countries; no one has been left unaffected by the coronavirus.

So often travel articles focus on the spectacular elements, the commercial activities to pursue or the trite offerings of an area. My vision is to provide a different look at life as an ex-patriot.