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Former French President François Hollande drops another comeback hint at private party

mingooland
3 min read
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PARIS — If time is indeed a flat circle, François Hollande may yet have a chance of returning to power in France next year.

The 71-year-old, who served as French president from 2012 to 2017, told dozens of influential supporters, including elected officials and public servants, at a garden party at the French Senate that he thinks he “could be useful” in next year’s presidential election.

“I’ve been president before; I know what the job entails, and I’ve held that position,” Hollande said, according to an attendee who was granted anonymity to relay details about the private gathering. Hollande said he believes French voters will in 2027 focus on “what matters,” which means: “Who can lead France? Who can help France find its place?”

“Many people started campaigning in June. What matters is what will happen at the end of this year and early next year,” he said.

Hollande had previously said he is “getting ready” ahead of the election but is postponing a decision until closer to the end of the year. He hopes favorable opinion polls and turmoil within his own center-left Socialist Party could offer him a path back to power.

But a comeback remains a long shot. Hollande left office in 2017 after having registered the lowest-ever approval rating — four percent — of any French president in recent history. He was loathed by both his opponents on the right and erstwhile allies on the left, who accused him of failing to pursue the ambitious progressive agenda he had promised during his campaign.

His image has improved over the past decade. A recent survey from French pollster Ifop placed him second in a ranking of 50 public figures, with 49 percent of respondents saying they held a positive view of the former president.

But likeability and electability are two different things. Three separate pollsters have tested Hollande as a Socialist Party candidate over the past month, and he was consistently shown receiving less than 10 percent of the projected vote and missing the runoff by a significant margin.

In French presidential elections, the two best-placed candidates advance to a second round if none receives more than 50 percent of the vote in the first round. Polling currently shows the far-right candidate Marine Le Pen well-placed to reach the runoff, with the race for second place much more open.

Radical left candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon, whose rivalry with Hollande dates back several decades to when the two men fought internally within the Socialist Party, appears to be the best-placed figure on the left to qualify for the runoff.

Even on the center-left, Hollande is polling behind presidential hopeful and member of the European Parliament Raphaël Glucksmann, who has said he will announce near the end of the summer whether he is running for president.

The Socialists are expected to hold a closed primary in October, where members of the party and of allied forces, including Glucksmann’s own micro-party Place Publique, will be invited to pick their champion.

Hollande, however, does not wish to take part in the process. He is instead betting that whoever emerges as the Socialist candidate may look weak as the campaign unfolds, fueling calls for a seasoned politician like himself to return to the game.

Sarah Paillou contributed to this report.

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This cozy small town near Montreal is a wintry hideaway that’ll transport you to Scotland

<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-stone-building-with-green-and-red-accents-stands-on-a-snowy-street-right-a-snow-covered-red-bridge-crosses-a-partially-froze.jpg?id=54843185&width=1200&height=800&coordinates=96%2C0%2C96%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>If you've ever dreamed of spending the holidays among the <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/german-christmas-market-near-montreal">quaint cobblestone streets of Edinburgh or Glasgow</a>, you don't need to book a plane ticket from Quebec!</p><p>Just three hours from Montreal, the small Ontario town of Perth will make you feel like you've been whisked away to the cozy, wintry streets of Scotland.</p><p>Thanks to its <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/things-to-do-fall-old-montreal">cobblestone streets, historic architecture</a> and hospitable charm, this spot has all the appeal of Europe, especially during the holiday season. </p><p>Founded in 1816 by Scottish immigrants, Perth was designed to feel like a slice of Scotland in Ontario, right down to its name, which was borrowed from its namesake, Perth in Scotland. The town's heritage runs deep, and to this day, it's full of Scottish charm.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJfAEGnl0Kj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"> <div style="padding:8px;"> <div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"> </div> </div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJfAEGnl0Kj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a> </p> </div> </blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Downtown is lined with historic stone buildings crafted by masons that look straight out of the 19th century. The architecture and detailed stonework only add to the "mini Scotland" vibes.</p><p>The town's river—the Tay River—is named similarly to Scotland's River Tay, adding another touch of Celtic influence. The river winds through Perth, and in winter, it's often frozen or frosted with snow, making it an ideal setting for a cozy walk or wintry photos. </p><p>The river, together with Perth's stone bridges and classic lampposts, creates an atmosphere perfect for a winter daydream.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CI8Sk57L0jm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"> <div style="padding:8px;"> <div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"> </div> </div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CI8Sk57L0jm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a> </p> </div> </blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>However, Perth really comes to life during the holiday season with events and decorations that transform it into a festive wonderland.</p><p>In late November, the town's <a href="https://www.perth.ca/visit-us/festivals-and-events/christmas-and-holiday-events/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Festival of Lights</a> kicks off, with dozens of Christmas trees strung with lights and ornaments spread out around town. </p><p>At Crystal Palace, a glass-walled pavilion by the river, you can view the trees up close or take in the lights from outside as they reflect off the glass, turning the entire space into a glowing beacon of glittering lights. </p><p>The annual <a href="https://perthsantaclausparade.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Santa Claus Parade</a>, on December 7, is another unmissable event, with decorated floats and singers marching right through town.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNe9-2CFkE1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"> <div style="padding:8px;"> <div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"> </div> </div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNe9-2CFkE1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a> </p> </div> </blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Perth is also known for its shopping, with small boutiques, vintage and antique stores, and markets that make holiday gift hunting a breeze. You'll find unique, hand-crafted items, artisanal foods, and beautiful second-hand finds all around town.</p><p>And if you're sticking around after Christmas, there's even more to enjoy. On New Year's Day, the town hosts its <a href="https://www.perth.ca/visit-us/festivals-and-events/christmas-and-holiday-events/#PolarBearPlunge(January1,2025)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">annual Polar Bear Plunge</a> in the icy Tay River.</p><p>A full list of Perth's November and December upcoming holiday events can be found <a href="https://www.perth.ca/visit-us/festivals-and-events/christmas-and-holiday-events/#PolarBearPlunge(January1,2025)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a></p><h3>Christmas in Perth, Ontario</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIx_GHQr7g5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"> <div style="padding:8px;"> <div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"> </div> </div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIx_GHQr7g5/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a> </p> </div> </blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Price: Free to visit</p><p>When: Visit from mid-November onwards for ultimate winter magic<br/></p><p>Address: Perth, ON</p><p>Why You Need To Go: Whether you're there for the twinkling lights, the charming old buildings, or the chance to feel like you've stepped into a Scottish village, Perth is definitely worth the trip.</p><p><a href="https://www.perth.ca/en/visit/tourism.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Perth Tourism website</a></p><p><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em></p>

mingooland · · 3 min read