France is understandably proud of its cultural heritage, its wealth of historic buildings, galleries and museums, but few can be as irresistible as the idea of a Museum of Chocolate! Located in Biarritz (64 Pyrenees-Atlantique, Aquitaine - 14 Avenue Beau Rivage close to the seafront) it looks a serious venture (rather than some marketing ploy). You can see and learn about the history and cultivation of the cacao bean, the production of chocolate, its various forms from sweet to chili-peppery, chocolate sculpture and the advertising slogans used throughout the world over the years, Most importantly you do get the chance to taste as well! See www.lemuseeduchocolat.com
Coincidentally the film "Chocolat" starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp was shown on TV again recently, which provides its own very seductive story of the magical product - including some Hot Chocolate which was more the consistency of custard!! The film was shot in the picturesque village of Flavigny-sur-Ozerain (21 Cote d'Or, Burgundy) between Dijon and Chablis. The village prefers to be known for its "Bonbon a l'Anis" a small round hard sweet flavoured with Aniseed, rather than for its connection with Hollywood.
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