Paris Crowns a New King of the Crusty Baguette in Its Annual Bread-Baking Prize

Baker Xavier Netry poses at his bakery named "Utopie" in Paris on April 26, 2024, after being awarded best baguette 2024 of the city of Paris (Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Francaise de la Ville De Paris). (AFP)
Baker Xavier Netry poses at his bakery named "Utopie" in Paris on April 26, 2024, after being awarded best baguette 2024 of the city of Paris (Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Francaise de la Ville De Paris). (AFP)
TT
20

Paris Crowns a New King of the Crusty Baguette in Its Annual Bread-Baking Prize

Baker Xavier Netry poses at his bakery named "Utopie" in Paris on April 26, 2024, after being awarded best baguette 2024 of the city of Paris (Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Francaise de la Ville De Paris). (AFP)
Baker Xavier Netry poses at his bakery named "Utopie" in Paris on April 26, 2024, after being awarded best baguette 2024 of the city of Paris (Grand Prix de la Baguette de Tradition Francaise de la Ville De Paris). (AFP)

Paris has a new king of the crusty baguette.

Baker Xavier Netry was chosen this week as the 31st winner of Paris' annual “Grand Prix de la baguette” prize.

His long loaf beat 172 others.

Competing baguettes were evaluated for taste, look, texture, airiness and the quality of the baking. The jury included a deputy mayor, industry representatives, journalists and six Parisians that City Hall said were drawn at random.

The Utopie bakery in Paris' 11th district that Netry works for wins 4,000 euros ($4,290) and becomes one of the suppliers of the presidential Elysee Palace for a year.

City Hall said uneaten baguettes from the competition were donated to a charity that feeds people who are homeless.

Netry, a baker for 25 years, said the secrets of his success are a good sourdough starter and “a good long fermentation,” careful cooking and "some love and some passion, of course.”



Tourists Explore Al-Ahsa's Rich Heritage During Eid Celebrations

Tourists explore Al-Ahsa's rich heritage during Eid celebrations. (SPA)
Tourists explore Al-Ahsa's rich heritage during Eid celebrations. (SPA)
TT
20

Tourists Explore Al-Ahsa's Rich Heritage During Eid Celebrations

Tourists explore Al-Ahsa's rich heritage during Eid celebrations. (SPA)
Tourists explore Al-Ahsa's rich heritage during Eid celebrations. (SPA)

During Eid al-Fitr, the archaeological and historical landmarks of Al-Ahsa Governorate emerge as popular destinations for citizens, residents, and visitors seeking enjoyable exploration of the region's rich heritage.
Dr. Sattam Al-Wahb, a faculty member at the King Faisal University, highlighted the diverse tourist, heritage, and historical assets of Al-Ahsa Governorate, including its historic palaces and abundant natural resources, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
The UNESCO-listed Al-Ahsa Oasis, with its blend of natural, historical, and archaeological landmarks, has become a popular destination during Eid al-Fitr, attracting visitors from across the Kingdom and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.