Dorothy Carrington is most famous for her book Granite Island first published in 1971 chronicling the almost half of her life spent in Corsica - a must read for visitors. A recent article in the Financial Times reminded me that she'd also written about the more mysterious side to the island, The Dream Hunters of Corsica. It is an excellent article for anyone thinking of visiting Corsica although you need to pay £1 access it - good value for money!

In recent weeks Le Figaro carried a story about the origins of Coca-Cola which suggests the original recipe may well have originated in Corsica. This of course is hotly disputed by the Coca-Cola company. However, it's an intriguing story and well worth a read. I won't try to regurgitate it here but go take a look for yourself at the Coca Mariani website. Vin Tonique Mariani is still on sale so if you see it maybe give it a go and you decide - is it the real thing?