John Laurenson

Latest Stories (71)

France weighs the cost of preserving its churches

Sep 3, 2012
France has more churches than any country in Europe, but some believe the cost of preserving these ancient structures is getting too high.

Monks feed the rich, so they can give to the poor

Aug 2, 2012
Monks on the island of St. Honorat, near Cannes, France, run an upscale restaurant and grow wine so they can make money to give to the poor.

Tour guide connects Paris and black America

Jul 10, 2012
Tour groups like the Black Paris Tour highlight the shared history of Paris and black America, which stretches back to the 18th century when freed slaves and persecuted blacks sought refuge, art and culture in France.

French candidates face 'Young & Poor' voters

Apr 20, 2012
A ratings agency in France evaluates how presidential candidates plan to tackle the country's dire youth employment problem.

Dutch winemaker saves old French vineyard

Apr 6, 2012
In France, land for development is at a premium, and vineyards are threatened, but Dutch winemaker Cornelius Kamerbeek saved one in the city of Nice.

France accused of fostering market in hostages

Mar 12, 2012
Despite official denials, France is accused of being too ready to pay ransoms for hostages -- and so encouraging kidnappers to abduct its citizens.

Plans for Napoleon Bonaparte theme park move forward

Feb 28, 2012
New government funding means the next big theme park in Europe may be "Napoleonland." A commercial tribute to the 19th century French emperor could open in a small town outside Paris.

'Pimp My Ride' has its fans in Morocco

Jan 24, 2012
Customizing cars is becoming a major craze in Morocco after the American television show “Pimp My Ride” wins many fans.

In noise-averse Paris, 'silent discos' spread

Jan 13, 2012
Many young Parisians want to listen to loud music, but don’t want to annoy their neighbors -- so they’re using headphones at their parties.

Baguettes straight from the vending machine

Nov 7, 2011
In Paris, a baker has invented a vending machine that will satisfy your midnight snack attack for fresh bread.