Submitted by Fatima Rizzo on March 16, 2021, at 15:30
Great question! When we hear someone is "going to the cottage" our minds are immediately filled with idyllic images of children playing in lakes, casual outdoor attire, crackling fire pits and exciting water sports. In that sense, "going to the cottage" would certainly reflect the experience rather than the destination. Folks heading to the chalet would enjoy the same experience, as "cottage" (English term) and "chalet" (French term) are equivalent concepts.
The expression can, however, also reflect the destination. Some bilingual people living in Quebec may refer to their seasonal or country home as their "chalet," and chances are the chalet is located in Quebec, evoking that idea of destination. A person living in another province will typically use the term "cottage."
"Chalet" is also used in certain parts of Europe, often referring to Alpen ski chalets. These chalets tend to be built in a specific style, usually with wide sloping roofs. English-speaking tourists will generally use the French term "chalet," as this term, in this location, represents a distinct structure. In this case, the term refers to both the experience and the destination.
How words make us travel!
The expression can, however, also reflect the destination. Some bilingual people living in Quebec may refer to their seasonal or country home as their "chalet," and chances are the chalet is located in Quebec, evoking that idea of destination. A person living in another province will typically use the term "cottage."
"Chalet" is also used in certain parts of Europe, often referring to Alpen ski chalets. These chalets tend to be built in a specific style, usually with wide sloping roofs. English-speaking tourists will generally use the French term "chalet," as this term, in this location, represents a distinct structure. In this case, the term refers to both the experience and the destination.
How words make us travel!