Start point - Decathlon Careful you'll spend far more than you expect too. It's normally slightly out of town but just ask the guys at work to point you in the right direction. At Decathlon you will find all the clothes you need - it might not be the brand names but trust me it's good stuff. Got the best winter gloves for 3euros in the summer sale. There you may also cast your eyes on a deal or two in the bike section. If not - next stop - Go Sport. My colleague just bought a full carbon Go Sport branded bike with 105 components for 800euros. If no bike takes your fancy then start looking for a bike shop. You may just find one that does rentals. And, yes, make sure you introduce yourself, something along the lines of Bonjour Monsieur Je vien d'Afrique du Sud. Parlez vous anglais? Trust me, it's true, tell them you're anything but english and they'll be the friendliest people. Next step - get a map. Actually you should get that at Decathlon. There are SO many roads here in France you won't know where to begin. But it is cycling heaven. You will see so much more than just the town centre. And even Mercure hotels can handle strange people in lycra walking through reception with a bike - speaking from experience. If all else fails. Just sit back relax - La Vie est Belle. Figure out the meaning of that and you're made for life!!!
