Phê Vé
May 2, 2026 • 3 min read
Join author Julia Langbein as she humorously explores the enchanting cathedral towns of France. Discover her research, travel tips, and delightful experiences.
About the Novel "Dear Monica Lewinsky" and Its Inspiration
Julia Langbein, an author with a background in comedy and the arts, ventured into the cathedral towns of France to seek inspiration for her latest novel, "Dear Monica Lewinsky." In this book, the character Jean Dornan recounts her study abroad experience in France during the summer of 1998, coinciding with her romantic involvement with a professor of classical art. Interestingly, this summer also marked the time when President Bill Clinton admitted to his affair with Monica Lewinsky.
The Cathedral Towns of Amiens and Bourges
Langbein chose Amiens and Bourges, two renowned cathedral towns in France, as the backdrop for her explorations. Amiens is famous for the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens, one of the largest and most beautiful cathedrals in Europe, while Bourges is known for the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Bourges, a Gothic architectural masterpiece. Traveling from Paris to these destinations is quite convenient, taking only about an hour by train.
Costs and Travel Information for Vietnamese Travelers
While planning her trip, Langbein not only aimed to conduct research but also wanted to bring her parents from the U.S. to visit Amiens. A meal at the restaurant Les Orfèvres in Amiens costs around 900,000 VND. If you're in Vietnam and planning a trip to France, keep in mind that you'll need to apply for a Schengen visa, which costs about 2 million VND and has a processing time of around 15 days. Currently, the Euro exchange rate hovers around 25,000 VND, an important detail to consider when budgeting.
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Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
A Memorable Trip to Bourges
Months later, Langbein decided to travel solo to Bourges, where a significant scene from her book takes place. Here, she not only visited the cathedral but also explored Tudor-style houses and enjoyed duck dishes at very reasonable prices. Interestingly, despite her knowledge of the cathedral's architecture and what to expect, she felt an odd excitement as she immersed herself in the local atmosphere.
Discovering the Unique Significance of Cathedral Towns
Langbein realized that these towns are not merely tourist spots; they are humorous spaces where everyday life and magnificent religious structures intriguingly contrast. "I took plenty of notes about my feelings here, from the locals to the tourists with their different nuances," she shared. These observations contributed to the fascinating stories within her novel.
Conclusion: Travel Doesn't Need a Reason
Ultimately, Langbein concluded that traveling and researching do not require a specific reason. Through her personal experiences and humorous notes, she found joy in exploring and documenting the life around her. If you have the chance, don't hesitate to visit the cathedral towns in France, where you'll discover many interesting and surprising things.
Article adapted and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler
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