The French turned out, en masse, to say that they did not want to see the Le Pen gang take possession of their regions. That is the most important lesson from Sunday's vote, and it is a reassuring one. But what caused the nation to right itself?

The embalmed heart of a French knight showed signs of atherosclerosis.

For the discriminating traveler looking for something different that combines an international flair with rich history and natural beauty, the territory is a "hidden gem" among North American tourist destinations.