tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79990053680251948502024-02-07T08:17:12.697-08:00LE SUD DE FRANCE - MAY/JUNE - 2013Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-12302922397548164582013-07-08T13:29:00.000-07:002013-07-08T13:42:29.712-07:00Last Days<p>During the last three days in Amsterdam, we have certainly done a lot of walking, had to buy new shoes! <br>
When we disembarked the barge this past Saturday morning, we dropped off our luggage at our hotel and Brenda and Molly went their own way together as did Robin and I. Decided we wanted to get some exercise (sounds funny after a week of cycling!), so we headed to Vondelpark, just a few blocks from our hotel. The park covers 47 acres and people everywhere enjoying the sunny day. Some boot camps going on, as well as yoga classes, people rollerblading, walking, cycling and dog walking. We love the fact that great Cities invest in green spaces like this. Hard to believe that this park has been here since 1865. <br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhXcM6AhVK9jWAFMRZ9X9KEWgi7nsBEFwnndjMHRoofBbfLy8QQA7_AgL7IamEdgkUdXW0txIIzcAcgcFLiWVJsSRBG_yUO_Ac6bZd7ppUr_lwVAitM6FjlApmtDkcVfhcyJ6CSF1Ha0e/s1024/Photo%2525202013-07-05%2525201%25253A36%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhXcM6AhVK9jWAFMRZ9X9KEWgi7nsBEFwnndjMHRoofBbfLy8QQA7_AgL7IamEdgkUdXW0txIIzcAcgcFLiWVJsSRBG_yUO_Ac6bZd7ppUr_lwVAitM6FjlApmtDkcVfhcyJ6CSF1Ha0e/s500/Photo%2525202013-07-05%2525201%25253A36%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373316095620.0312" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="392"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vondelpark</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
We went to the Van Gogh museum. A great retrospective of his work through the ten years he painted, very enjoyable. Unfortunately, could not take pictures at the museum. After leaving the museum, we got lost in the neighbouring streets, which is always a good thing. Ran into a Dutch gentleman who we spoke to for a while. He told us to go a few blocks to a local organic market...thank you. What a little gem. We bought Dutch waffles. Mine had fresh strawberries and Robin's had nutella and strawberries....yum. Sat at a picnic table with some locals and had a wonderful visit with a Dutch couple. Discussed the recent coronation of the king and he showed us pictures of his family and the locals celebrating the event, then onto the Dutch economy and life in general. Walked to the flower market, quite a walk, then back to the hotel via tram. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ukK10HVq1lg/Udsa0DEd57I/AAAAAAAAGmY/muYnzXLwqMU/s1024/Photo%2525202013-07-06%2525203%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ukK10HVq1lg/Udsa0DEd57I/AAAAAAAAGmY/muYnzXLwqMU/s500/Photo%2525202013-07-06%2525203%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373316095598.2139" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="333"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The canals in Haarlem</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>On Sunday, we headed off to Haarlem, a town some 20 kms. from Amsterdam. We took the tram, then a train from the Central train station. Very quiet on a Sunday morning. We went to the town centre and heard music from the local church. The service was just finishing, so we entered. Someone playing a beautiful pipe organ, so we sat down to listen. Off to sit by the canals to watch people enjoying the day on the water. Back to Amsterdam so I could meet Brenda and Molly at the Anne Frank Huis. Very interesting and very moving to see what these people went through. <br>
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<p> </p>
<p>Monday, our last day in Amsterdam. Headed off to the Rijksmuseum where we spent three hours. Lots of people here, but still able to enjoy the art. Then walked through some new undiscovered neighbourhoods to the Albert Cuyps market. Somewhat tacky, but able to taste proffertjes, a Dutch pastry, like pancake puffs served with icing sugar. Walked through a high end shopping area,the back to the hotel. </p>
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<p>During the vast three days, Brenda and Molly have had their time together as had we, but we have met each night for drinks and dinner. Lots of good meals and laughs each night.</p>
<p><br>
Well, two and a half months have passed since we left Calgary. In retrospect, Robin and I have so many good memories of places we have seen, people we have met and many wonderful adventures. It has also been great to have Brenda and Molly join us in our travels as we have had so much fun together experiencing new places. Thank you to both of you. </p>
<p>I have enjoyed writing this blog of our travels, as before, and hopefully these reading has experienced someof what we have, even if only vicariously!</p>
<p>Goodbye till the next time.</p>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s_D-VfmomvA/UdseCIr64ZI/AAAAAAAAGnI/DKTjgsHiIpk/s1600/IMAGE_4C3C61F1-FBEC-4031-B226-DF5533E43483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s_D-VfmomvA/UdseCIr64ZI/AAAAAAAAGnI/DKTjgsHiIpk/s1600/IMAGE_4C3C61F1-FBEC-4031-B226-DF5533E43483.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095653.128" class="" alt="" width="476" height="356"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire at Vondelpark, Amsterdam</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hto_ehxxPZ6JQQ7HnV6fvjaKuukXTKBu_I6ioNMp5bfo4DSCrMNNntbk0w8Y4DjUOS7rt9aX0bFvQ-phcaGo-WjXHx17bONd_7scKK5hlGE_QqZIlaxRDbyj266pkQk2FAHgoWUZrgJQ/s1600/IMAGE_255C3680-A8D4-402D-A30E-7028D880C7CE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hto_ehxxPZ6JQQ7HnV6fvjaKuukXTKBu_I6ioNMp5bfo4DSCrMNNntbk0w8Y4DjUOS7rt9aX0bFvQ-phcaGo-WjXHx17bONd_7scKK5hlGE_QqZIlaxRDbyj266pkQk2FAHgoWUZrgJQ/s1600/IMAGE_255C3680-A8D4-402D-A30E-7028D880C7CE.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095649.8076" class="" alt="" width="388" height="462"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vondelpark</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdWmN0cCCWQ/UdseYJLJENI/AAAAAAAAGnc/zxXxisZX92s/s1600/IMAGE_264CA3CF-744D-43DD-9B12-49C40BE7CE21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RdWmN0cCCWQ/UdseYJLJENI/AAAAAAAAGnc/zxXxisZX92s/s1600/IMAGE_264CA3CF-744D-43DD-9B12-49C40BE7CE21.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095606.1094" class="" alt="" width="492" height="369"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vondelpark </td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NhX8sauZCAk/Udseh3Wi_OI/AAAAAAAAGnk/1dSp4KuDQGk/s1600/IMAGE_87768371-91CB-478E-98EA-2220BA97B762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NhX8sauZCAk/Udseh3Wi_OI/AAAAAAAAGnk/1dSp4KuDQGk/s1600/IMAGE_87768371-91CB-478E-98EA-2220BA97B762.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095651.1" class="" alt="" width="364" height="495"></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZG21vR4--k/Udse6KYpZTI/AAAAAAAAGn0/q-WfUAXD3TE/s1600/IMAGE_0E7F2509-FA5E-464E-8890-FC4F910AADF8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZG21vR4--k/Udse6KYpZTI/AAAAAAAAGn0/q-WfUAXD3TE/s1600/IMAGE_0E7F2509-FA5E-464E-8890-FC4F910AADF8.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095592.6309" class="" alt="" width="469" height="351"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dutch crepes</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxYcCvdq9qA/UdsfD9dREfI/AAAAAAAAGoE/Mus_KBrjsk8/s1600/IMAGE_1ED4E0E3-4D20-4C85-8C56-04B55A92DC07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxYcCvdq9qA/UdsfD9dREfI/AAAAAAAAGoE/Mus_KBrjsk8/s1600/IMAGE_1ED4E0E3-4D20-4C85-8C56-04B55A92DC07.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095601.677" class="" alt="" width="393" height="298"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rijks</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkC6VFAsEMNWRyrR0i-zDiUD-Ry05ng7N-nLXNbgx32u9s2Haq_5aH5vpDUrqvpgB4R0GVE4N1kcTgCmGUOKR_ycSjOwjCxDwA8M8-28UV6X2AvtMWdutHApbJbzcy2JDwyC53td1yoGK/s1600/IMAGE_C560B233-B072-4488-BB62-5BF847C3BC8C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkC6VFAsEMNWRyrR0i-zDiUD-Ry05ng7N-nLXNbgx32u9s2Haq_5aH5vpDUrqvpgB4R0GVE4N1kcTgCmGUOKR_ycSjOwjCxDwA8M8-28UV6X2AvtMWdutHApbJbzcy2JDwyC53td1yoGK/s1600/IMAGE_C560B233-B072-4488-BB62-5BF847C3BC8C.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095636.7432" class="" alt="" width="493" height="370"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Flower Market</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-leakE4KFcgU/UdsfaoobdpI/AAAAAAAAGoU/RGd7lcQbhFk/s1600/IMAGE_6195DC5E-3D53-4753-954F-DB264E2436A7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-leakE4KFcgU/UdsfaoobdpI/AAAAAAAAGoU/RGd7lcQbhFk/s1600/IMAGE_6195DC5E-3D53-4753-954F-DB264E2436A7.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095652.266" class="" alt="" width="539" height="404"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CGUSrOo5b0/UdsfhOs7H_I/AAAAAAAAGoc/a4X-5Z4YUYM/s1600/IMAGE_E6C224D7-95E6-4A5F-9793-3A50984C5940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CGUSrOo5b0/UdsfhOs7H_I/AAAAAAAAGoc/a4X-5Z4YUYM/s1600/IMAGE_E6C224D7-95E6-4A5F-9793-3A50984C5940.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095666.112" class="" alt="" width="462" height="417"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haarlem</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fh6008ZtaNA7JyFBbYs24vWgbwTh1JKIc37x4_3e07zn9jbc7B0NdQ93ai-UiJiiqfV9XJlaQE46pYqVcwpI4v7cpx6tuR-y8U7zY8OwY7qoARVHQhoJi5O1orAUndxHQAdXBANBx-85/s1600/IMAGE_55524EE6-1725-438B-94CD-26258640941E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fh6008ZtaNA7JyFBbYs24vWgbwTh1JKIc37x4_3e07zn9jbc7B0NdQ93ai-UiJiiqfV9XJlaQE46pYqVcwpI4v7cpx6tuR-y8U7zY8OwY7qoARVHQhoJi5O1orAUndxHQAdXBANBx-85/s1600/IMAGE_55524EE6-1725-438B-94CD-26258640941E.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095617.839" class="" alt="" width="383" height="288"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pJ8oavpYkug/Udsfs2jM3cI/AAAAAAAAGos/ESBp3-G027k/s1600/IMAGE_37314B12-10BB-4C5A-B9A7-3CED9076625B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pJ8oavpYkug/Udsfs2jM3cI/AAAAAAAAGos/ESBp3-G027k/s1600/IMAGE_37314B12-10BB-4C5A-B9A7-3CED9076625B.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095591.2307" class="" alt="" width="472" height="296"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haarlem</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7aYTtwri9_I/Udsf5DyBQrI/AAAAAAAAGo8/REb7r5Yg4sw/s1600/IMAGE_20C90548-1EEC-4944-8F51-6DC561B70143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7aYTtwri9_I/Udsf5DyBQrI/AAAAAAAAGo8/REb7r5Yg4sw/s1600/IMAGE_20C90548-1EEC-4944-8F51-6DC561B70143.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095613.4473" class="" alt="" width="400" height="534"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pipe organ in Haarlem </td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciw-CRliJII/Udsf_xw67GI/AAAAAAAAGpE/ojmerv9aO0s/s1600/IMAGE_F4600E1E-4757-48F8-8FED-DC76C734749A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ciw-CRliJII/Udsf_xw67GI/AAAAAAAAGpE/ojmerv9aO0s/s1600/IMAGE_F4600E1E-4757-48F8-8FED-DC76C734749A.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095596.533" class="" alt="" width="489" height="367"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People cycling through the Rijks</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8NAnDSSEMfYfDCuLK4Z7GBAx9o9DwvDXvzxNQrZfK59_xvzAvtL5ED5W79RsdxlHpaEEBzmAJSuiQqhg6_ZRYkqfQmtkqMUJ9z9r9cYk_IHvtW2wSGnG_XQcSEuieZFvs4tKdXHXk6ok/s1600/IMAGE_AF3F1E94-4C82-4EB6-B965-2EA6E5354884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt8NAnDSSEMfYfDCuLK4Z7GBAx9o9DwvDXvzxNQrZfK59_xvzAvtL5ED5W79RsdxlHpaEEBzmAJSuiQqhg6_ZRYkqfQmtkqMUJ9z9r9cYk_IHvtW2wSGnG_XQcSEuieZFvs4tKdXHXk6ok/s1600/IMAGE_AF3F1E94-4C82-4EB6-B965-2EA6E5354884.JPG" id="blogsy-1373316095625.0227" class="" alt="" width="471" height="364"></a></div>
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<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-6918535487218359692013-07-06T03:53:00.001-07:002013-07-07T00:13:55.566-07:00Holland<p>Brenda, Robin and I left Mazamet on Friday, June 28th. A 1 1/2 hour drive to Toulouse and a 2 hour flight to Amsterdam where we met our niece Molly at our hotel. She will be joining us for the barge/bike tour and for our last three days in Amsterdam after the bike trip. Amsterdam definitely the busiest City we have been in. One must watch out for bikes everywhere, thousands of tourists, cars, buses and trams. Lights even control the bikes. Our hotel was located in this busy tourist area; but upon our return in a week, we will be in a quieter area. We took the train from the airport to the main train station and walked the four blocks to our hotel. The first thing we noticed when we left the train station was a three storey bike parkade. Bikes, bikes and more bikes. Nobody wears bike helmets. It is hard to describe the number of bikes here, just unbelievable!<br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZJo_-w_Z2Uk/Udf2L5xly_I/AAAAAAAAGcQ/XVQQKsBI_Qw/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-27%2525208%25253A50%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZJo_-w_Z2Uk/Udf2L5xly_I/AAAAAAAAGcQ/XVQQKsBI_Qw/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-27%2525208%25253A50%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186436.987" class="alignleft" alt="" width="500" height="419"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical street scene in Amsterdam</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Walked around Amsterdam in the afternoon to get our bearings, stopped for a pre dinner drink in a pub located in the Red Light District, then more walking and dinner at an Indonesian restaurant. Brenda commented that she has never seen so many groups of young testosteroned men and have to agree, very noticeable. <span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">On the way back to the hotel, we find ourselves in the midst of the back alleys of the Red Light District.</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> What you have heard about the Red Light District in true. The girls are wearing little clothing, some standing in the windows, others sitting, smoking, eating, while looking and smiling at prospective customers. Almost surreal, but that's real life in Amsterdam. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Then of course there are the "coffee shops" in the back alleys where marijuana is sold along with the coffee. It is legal to be sold to local Dutch people only, so we are told. We also came across many erotic shops, cheesy tourist shops and many cheese stores. It was Friday night and throngs of people everywhere. We haven't seen so many tourists in one place in all our touring in the last two months. We go for Indonesian food for dinner. Many Indonesian restaurants in Holland due to the occupation of Indonesia by the Dutch. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">The next morning we decide to take a cruise through the canals. This gave us a good sense of the layout of the City. The number of canals are amazing. The canals are also well used by the locals for a means of transportation. More walking, then Brenda, Molly and I decide to visit the Sex Museum. Robin won't have anything to do with it and waits till we finish our visit. Very tacky place, think it just made us laugh and glad that we did not pay more than 4 Euro.</span><br>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTUsmVwFBx0wrbDn3zAZT1X2a0CD1Ka4DaUIupNGM_9_GYsl5qygQ_IZllOOwTY6Lwl9IrFR4e8sLJg43Qrl081jVEv81DEKji8YHmXS7gMkuz8_k23lY4bji7pttvuX2iHC6TdcNLT2cQ/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-27%25252010%25253A14%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTUsmVwFBx0wrbDn3zAZT1X2a0CD1Ka4DaUIupNGM_9_GYsl5qygQ_IZllOOwTY6Lwl9IrFR4e8sLJg43Qrl081jVEv81DEKji8YHmXS7gMkuz8_k23lY4bji7pttvuX2iHC6TdcNLT2cQ/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-27%25252010%25253A14%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186398.0178" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canal in Amsterdam</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Around 3 p.m. we take a cab to our boat, the Angela Esmee, which will be our accommodation for the coming week. We get settled in our rooms, tiny but comfortable. Knock on Brenda and Molly's door and my....my....they have been given the Presidential suite. A room with 2 bunk beds and yes folks....two windows.</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> Our meals on board have been good and plentiful. Each day we leave the boat by 9:00 a.m. on our bikes for the day. Our routes will vary between 45 and 65 kms. each day. On our first evening, the boat leaves the Amsterdam harbour for Zaandam, just a few kms. away. Each evening the tour leader gives a briefing as to the next day's route and gives suggestions as to where to stop for coffee, lunch and more importantly....apple pie. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">There are 54 people on board of which there are 5 Brits, 1Italian, 2 Norwegians, 4 Canadians (that would be us) and the rest are "loud" Germans. Robin noticed that there wasn't a Canadian flag flying and mentioned it to the tour director, Wilhemina. That afternoon, they arranged to have one put up...yeah! </span></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> There is always one person who stands out on a trip. This person is a German male who appeared on the ship wearing leather pants with a belt that we think he bought at one of the many erotic shops in Amsterdam. Leather pants....just thinking, weren't they popular thirty years ago! O.K. We couldn't help ourselves and couldn't stop laughing about him....we now call him....Mr. Leather Pants. We thought to ourselves that his wardrobe would improve....wrong! He showed up the first morning for a 45 kms. bike ride wearing the same leather pants.....enough said.</span><br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LgJ-e3CHEM8/Udf2bJyxDKI/AAAAAAAAGcg/sRQa5OYhxkg/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-29%25252012%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LgJ-e3CHEM8/Udf2bJyxDKI/AAAAAAAAGcg/sRQa5OYhxkg/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-29%25252012%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186405.0366" class="" alt="" width="500" height="258"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many windmills in the countryside</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">In Zandaam, went out for a short walk to see if we can find the first markers for the bike route. Must say, they are so well organized when it comes to anything "bike" in Holland. Separate bike routes, separate lights, bike parking, bike height garbage bins and markers on the trails. Our first day of touring was through the "polder" part of Northern Holland. Polder relates to an </span></p>
<p style="display: inline !important;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">area of low-lying land, especially in the Netherlands, that has been reclaimed from a body of water and is protected by dikes.</span></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> This is the traditional part that we would all be familiar with. Many windmills, sheep, cattle and canals everywhere.</span><br>
</p>
<div caption="Coffee/Apple pie stop on our first day of cycling" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://httpshttps://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0GOMrv36MCI6VW6iLkkIi7LB6gFJ10puSJjrc1OsDYwCAXimYw-a3QoxwGsPPv8Y6VYZ2DqD1IQ3KqG9xabxxNy7K6VOVLuLEcYacXWqxG9yJEhsv4NC2cmi_uJnD_h4w0NdW9cQkMxe/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-29%2525202%25253A35%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0GOMrv36MCI6VW6iLkkIi7LB6gFJ10puSJjrc1OsDYwCAXimYw-a3QoxwGsPPv8Y6VYZ2DqD1IQ3KqG9xabxxNy7K6VOVLuLEcYacXWqxG9yJEhsv4NC2cmi_uJnD_h4w0NdW9cQkMxe/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-29%2525202%25253A35%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186414.16" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="371" height="438"></a></div>
<p>Our first bike stop was a museum type setting of a typical old Dutch town. Really more of a touristy place, but nice to see the typical houses and best of all, they had a children's play area, where we all tried walking on the stilts....who are the children? The next stop is for coffee and apple pie, prior to a small canal crossing by ferry. This part of Holland is known for it's apple pie, so therefore, we just had to try it....mmmmmm. Back on the bikes to visit two old windmills from the 16th century. You can climb up to the top and we also watched a video on how the windmills work, quite interesting. Off again cycling along the dikes and farmland. The small villages we pass have lovely houses and spectacular gardens; all very neat and tidy. Most of the dutch decorate their window sills with lovely flowers or works of art. Our final stop for lunch In a small cafe along the canal. A total of six hours on the road, prior to meeting the boat in Alkmaar. Very busy canals in the centre of the town with people on small boats enjoying the sunshine, drinking and Sunday afternoon boat rides with their families. Went for a guided walk of Alkmaar in the evening with our tour leader who described the history of the town and pointed out the important buildings. A total of 45 kms. today.</p>
<p>Up each morning around 7 a.m. and on the bikes by 8:30/ 9 a.m. at the latest. On our second day we bike about 55 kms. to Den Helder. Everyone in our party feels good with the exception of our "rear ends". The scenery today is totally different from our first day. Now cycling through a small forest, then along the dunes by the North Sea. A little grey outside, but quickly warms up and need to shed a layer of clothing. Some wind, but glad to be out in the open air, enjoying the views and getting some exercise. We stop at a small cafe along the route for coffee and apple pie.....just have to make sure we test the apple pie to ensure it meets the Dutch standards. We get to our next stop before the boat. Have a beer on the deck of a pub waiting for the boat. After dinner, the boat sails for Oudeschild, which is on the Island of Texel. ......very smooth sailing due to the protection of the five Islands off the coast of Northern Holland. <br>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYt1c-lbX_-qPBclE2UiGEQHIRjRz9gmF07LylaW3cF4bDjeHouy4hJ2247zYrTlswfgRlUE3SR98qbKFpBjvHfvZ0w6VTL1KjYgkfyi0SFHUv0g27rLna_qpmomL24-28PAw2sHS0KKw/s1024/Photo%2525202013-07-02%2525203%25253A31%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYt1c-lbX_-qPBclE2UiGEQHIRjRz9gmF07LylaW3cF4bDjeHouy4hJ2247zYrTlswfgRlUE3SR98qbKFpBjvHfvZ0w6VTL1KjYgkfyi0SFHUv0g27rLna_qpmomL24-28PAw2sHS0KKw/s500/Photo%2525202013-07-02%2525203%25253A31%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186421.483" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cycling path through a nature preserve </td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Our third day of cycling is quite random. We are on the Island and many options, as long as you are back on the boat by 5 p.m. for sailing back to the mainland. We cycle through the town of Den Burg, the largest town in the Island, then onto the small village of Den Hoorn, where we stop for coffee at a quaint shop. Further along the route, we stop at " Ecomare ", which is an aquarium. We stayed to watch the feeding off the seals. The seagulls are quite aggressive as the trainer is feeding the fish. The birds swoop down to try to catch the fish, before the seals. One of the seagulls, swoops right above our heads and manages to drop a "little gift" right on me. Thankfully it did not hit my head, but my cycling shirt and skirt. Oh well....it was time to change shirts anyhow! Further up the coast to De Koog where we have lunch. </p>
<p>We separate, Brenda and Molly go in one direction and Robin and I in another. We agree to meet back at the boat before 3 p.m. as we will be going on a tour of the local brewery. The brewery tour is a little disappointing; as everything is in German! One has to ask, why German and not Dutch? We are told that the island of Texel caters to Germans. <span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">So if a local sees that you are a tourist, they speak German first. All the menus are in Dutch, German and finally English if you are lucky. The locals raise a lot of sheep here, yet the Dutch people hardly eat lamb, it is mostly exported. They also do not eat Edam cheese, they export all of the Edam that they produce. They do not feel that this type of cheese has enough taste as it is a young cheese, not aged. </span><br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazQ3Jz-sVX7Rr70B451Ga9iC5M_tnhxjrD_8o8lTFsrzXLoQ6aYPSQNbIBB409yTsf7belZKuGEhni0gN7bfMB-oALphlTRwAETxDpuv-bn7wRd2xy0-C3jjG5ZwdvsRTzH806S2bb2My/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-30%2525205%25253A02%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazQ3Jz-sVX7Rr70B451Ga9iC5M_tnhxjrD_8o8lTFsrzXLoQ6aYPSQNbIBB409yTsf7belZKuGEhni0gN7bfMB-oALphlTRwAETxDpuv-bn7wRd2xy0-C3jjG5ZwdvsRTzH806S2bb2My/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-30%2525205%25253A02%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186373.3945" class="" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cycle path along the dunes</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Keep in mind that we are travelling with Brenda and Molly, therefore lots of accents are being practiced or mimicking people might be closer to the truth. Molly has the Dutch accent down to a tee, she just sounds mad when she pronounces a Dutch word or name of a village. Brenda on the other hand, sounds more like Colonel Klink from Hogan's Heroes or at other times like a Swede! </span></p>
<p>On Tuesday evening, we sailed back to the mainland and moored in Den Oever. No real big town here, so the ship provides entertainment. A one man band shows up for his gig. He starts to play and his repertoire is mainly 60's and 70's music, with some real oldies thrown in, all sung in English. He plays Que Sera Sera.....the Germans start to sing and sway side to side holding each others hands and get louder and louder. Brenda, Robin and I sing along, as we know most of this music. Molly on the other hand feels like she has somehow entered The Twilight Zone! </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3feRjxvCIRmSBECyvxebXFIIi_n5N1Y1PB2MZkng2PBdwC0MXbKGZhH6-5CxbIDD2DAWdHExF2fq2QybkOqcnTeClLxwkJygfvvHzX0bLoB_8PfQUrGDFshGYX2CKagEXsFleiehhzAy/s1024/Photo%2525202013-07-02%2525206%25253A55%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3feRjxvCIRmSBECyvxebXFIIi_n5N1Y1PB2MZkng2PBdwC0MXbKGZhH6-5CxbIDD2DAWdHExF2fq2QybkOqcnTeClLxwkJygfvvHzX0bLoB_8PfQUrGDFshGYX2CKagEXsFleiehhzAy/s500/Photo%2525202013-07-02%2525206%25253A55%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186351.8464" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="474"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire and Robin after 44 kms. arriving in Enkhuizen</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>The next morning a two hour sail to Medemblik then leave for our biking trip around 10 a.m and we do 44 kms. We ride through many small villages today and the village of Twisk was quite interesting. All the homes in this town are built on one street. Stopped for coffee at the "koffee shop", which was also the local hardware store. We also biked through Egboetswater a nature preserve, which was quite peaceful. I know those reading this blog are probably thinking, " Why does Claire bother with all these names? ". Well, I think it is just fun trying to enunciate them! <br>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://https//lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XZZPpssFJDM/Udf3G_vgjjI/AAAAAAAAGdI/ejvkebi2-iY/s1024/Photo%2525202013-07-02%2525205%25253A28%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XZZPpssFJDM/Udf3G_vgjjI/AAAAAAAAGdI/ejvkebi2-iY/s500/Photo%2525202013-07-02%2525205%25253A28%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186400.396" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="386"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire, Molly and Brenda taking a break at the tea garden</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
We have one final stop on this day at a small tea garden. Nice back garden with a small shed that serves as the kitchen. Outdoor seating amongst the plants and along side a small pond. What great spots we have found along the biking paths for short breaks. Another 45 minutes down the road and we arrive in Enkhuizen, where we meet our boat for the night. Robin and I go for a short walk through the town. Another quaint coastal village. </p>
<p><br>
It seems that we have numerous pictures of the four of us when we are "eten n drinken". This term is used on the outside of restaurants, and we have now made it our theme! We have tried the typical foods of the region ..<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">appeltaart</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">or appelgebak ( apple pie usually served with whipped cream), </span> tosti (basically a toasted sandwich), <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="vk_ans vk_bk" style="margin-bottom: 5px;">pannekoeke ( pancake, but larger and thinner than those in Canada and often times filled with ham and cheese or something savoury), </span></span>waffles and stroopwafel ( a waffle cookie filled with caramel).<br>
On Thursday we head off for a 50 kms. ride. We bike along the dikes for the majority of the day. Stop in Hoorn for lunch . We wait around for the local demonstration of what took place at the cheese market of old. O.K......very touristy, but the old back side needed a break! Another few kilometres down the road and we end up at the well known town of Edam. Remember what I said, the Dutch people don't eat Edam....they export it. Finally arrive in Volendam, our final stop of the day. Boy....is this ever a tourist town. Bus loads of tourists arrive every day from Amsterdam, to shop in the tacky tourist shops. Will say however that the marina was filled with many beautiful masted ships. Shooters are two for one on board the ship, and a couple of Edmontonians I happen to know take advantage of this sale......as they had on a previous evening.....not naming any names! <br>
Friday, our last day of biking. We are not that far from Amsterdam, but we bike 45 kms. First thing in the morning we ride to a local cheese farm and get a demonstration of the cheese process. Then off to the Island of Marken for coffee. Technically, Marken is no longer an Island, as they have built a dike joining it to the mainland. We decide to take the longer route back to Amsterdam through small villages. A stop in the village of Broek, then onto Amsterdam. We have to take a ferry from North Amsterdam to Amsterdam. It is Friday afternoon and very busy with weekend traffic, but we get back to the ship by 3 p.m. Up to the top deck to toast our accomplishment. <br>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O15bH3pmrck/UdiEQBbGLqI/AAAAAAAAGdY/KsFDkzC_LAg/s1024/Photo%2525202013-07-04%2525206%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O15bH3pmrck/UdiEQBbGLqI/AAAAAAAAGdY/KsFDkzC_LAg/s500/Photo%2525202013-07-04%2525206%25253A06%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1373181186367.7417" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="452"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin, Molly, Brenda and Claire enjoying a celebratory drink after our week long bike trip</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><br>
What a great week we had. It was so nice that Brenda and Molly joined us. We had so many laughs, really had a good time and great partners to have on the cycling trip. We certainly could not complain about the weather. During the first couple of days we had cooler weather, but great for cycling. Last few days the sun came out, but not too hot. All in all.......just a great week. This is a trip that anyone in decent physical condition could undertake, and a great way to see the country.</p>
<p>We are so taken with Holland, the diverse countryside we saw, the wild North Sea, the dunes, the dikes, the beautiful gardens, the cleanliness and order of the small villages, the bike trail system and the fact that we are able to bike for a week and enjoy it so much. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIv1UPYYj_Y/UdiIoFx2oLI/AAAAAAAAGd4/cYa78MMEYGE/s1600/IMAGE_F48F5518-41A3-45C6-B4EF-9EE8C4F8FF4A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIv1UPYYj_Y/UdiIoFx2oLI/AAAAAAAAGd4/cYa78MMEYGE/s1600/IMAGE_F48F5518-41A3-45C6-B4EF-9EE8C4F8FF4A.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186385.478" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="430" height="358"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amsterdam</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheuyn0mmQcv1NSZRawVAnyJOsSjK-dwqbLpksqc1Zqb0WqBPQpi_V8mVvadFNq2vv3pzyidoTcrlCapNnWrAhqVG_MEZRotpttlA-2dVU2nXhY6dN-9005kdEygiJONXyKNndxsDt8ndNE/s1600/IMAGE_0EA74DC9-DCA1-4C33-B7FA-96D2B66066B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheuyn0mmQcv1NSZRawVAnyJOsSjK-dwqbLpksqc1Zqb0WqBPQpi_V8mVvadFNq2vv3pzyidoTcrlCapNnWrAhqVG_MEZRotpttlA-2dVU2nXhY6dN-9005kdEygiJONXyKNndxsDt8ndNE/s320/IMAGE_0EA74DC9-DCA1-4C33-B7FA-96D2B66066B1.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186438.7422" class="" alt="" width="320" height="303"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy45_1TqoPQZKh973Kwmu0j72F2mYOnxpPI4DOA7XgQLqZB-Ik4MwIbRPH16u2hRSKcbBXbqX0Dh18gwsgRAap-EvAshDMtEawMcJ5zspJruAHp_ETfT5J3oPDufrVceetZZEDWxhZ9xEJ/s1600/IMAGE_AF46A79D-19FB-41CC-BCDA-6868C002B0A2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy45_1TqoPQZKh973Kwmu0j72F2mYOnxpPI4DOA7XgQLqZB-Ik4MwIbRPH16u2hRSKcbBXbqX0Dh18gwsgRAap-EvAshDMtEawMcJ5zspJruAHp_ETfT5J3oPDufrVceetZZEDWxhZ9xEJ/s320/IMAGE_AF46A79D-19FB-41CC-BCDA-6868C002B0A2.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186416.4475" class="" alt="" width="320" height="256"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_KyVu_TB5uI/UdiJqisSgSI/AAAAAAAAGeg/XMqw_c8s81I/s1600/IMAGE_89C29339-D24A-46D6-BED9-415F87247F05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_KyVu_TB5uI/UdiJqisSgSI/AAAAAAAAGeg/XMqw_c8s81I/s1600/IMAGE_89C29339-D24A-46D6-BED9-415F87247F05.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186395.3474" class="" alt="" width="422" height="316"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canal in Amsterdam</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYBG49Tmqvc/UdiKfn-_F3I/AAAAAAAAGe8/jlOQqX0KZ5A/s1600/IMAGE_EFF16B4A-B506-4506-8EBC-7F2936E002B8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYBG49Tmqvc/UdiKfn-_F3I/AAAAAAAAGe8/jlOQqX0KZ5A/s1600/IMAGE_EFF16B4A-B506-4506-8EBC-7F2936E002B8.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186393.0413" class="" alt="" width="434" height="325"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everywhere you look, bikes</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uC2EZYCloxPN2BJIejCc_JMmR7yYpCRPMDSG7a8b-E8P4EeggSuY68E8vU5jBc6PA9szL5_wnJ9xSMjVSPFrVhMkAYe23wp-B-VA6eFIzoQzO7cp7TmH2FOPIHEt6M54SmAzFPsalR3n/s1600/IMAGE_356473CC-887F-4976-ADA2-03862F4D9300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_uC2EZYCloxPN2BJIejCc_JMmR7yYpCRPMDSG7a8b-E8P4EeggSuY68E8vU5jBc6PA9szL5_wnJ9xSMjVSPFrVhMkAYe23wp-B-VA6eFIzoQzO7cp7TmH2FOPIHEt6M54SmAzFPsalR3n/s1600/IMAGE_356473CC-887F-4976-ADA2-03862F4D9300.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186448.9712" class="" alt="" width="424" height="318"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgK5tP5lrHeVO2cxNE-y71qRQN23a1_HysjcW6sd6C4FM51OFspe04_3roPmmb4oZz7qO2AtDfe7qV94tBRXUwxSGhuqGkWHmKCVS7A_2IqzZOTTSmShKGO-oWcqKmscAfHrCmseiTcGn7/s1600/IMAGE_89FDB3BD-3F78-4720-877C-9331BEAEE6E6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgK5tP5lrHeVO2cxNE-y71qRQN23a1_HysjcW6sd6C4FM51OFspe04_3roPmmb4oZz7qO2AtDfe7qV94tBRXUwxSGhuqGkWHmKCVS7A_2IqzZOTTSmShKGO-oWcqKmscAfHrCmseiTcGn7/s1600/IMAGE_89FDB3BD-3F78-4720-877C-9331BEAEE6E6.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186396.5137" class="" alt="" width="404" height="291"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Robin on our canal tour</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pXw15BA_ias/UdiLTTxX8_I/AAAAAAAAGfg/iP3mc40Az58/s1600/IMAGE_F84549F3-7534-4788-9BE1-D5D72E9C9578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pXw15BA_ias/UdiLTTxX8_I/AAAAAAAAGfg/iP3mc40Az58/s1600/IMAGE_F84549F3-7534-4788-9BE1-D5D72E9C9578.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186402.4045" class="" alt="" width="491" height="316"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The many bridges over the canals</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7QQLH9FCDEE_ZGNoMxP2Pg9LCCRNq9QcU8-BkeFSIyT8k2R8rYW4682USWbZ73kZH-9m8RgGhIkSn6Za9kR3nA4wZLeLR4pop9d2JprNvPnE4Mh2XwQVJIvRtayXchMSQVfwnFgt5oJx/s1600/IMAGE_6CF59A6B-08B5-43CE-BE14-1E6F2194E467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7QQLH9FCDEE_ZGNoMxP2Pg9LCCRNq9QcU8-BkeFSIyT8k2R8rYW4682USWbZ73kZH-9m8RgGhIkSn6Za9kR3nA4wZLeLR4pop9d2JprNvPnE4Mh2XwQVJIvRtayXchMSQVfwnFgt5oJx/s320/IMAGE_6CF59A6B-08B5-43CE-BE14-1E6F2194E467.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186375.1763" class="" alt="" width="216" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why are Brenda and Molly smiling!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvZKSRTF5FTVL776J7pIH_OIRF6hMqEw-x0bzOoz7tw1bKt9k0rDTPsQdqELL6XxW4wXeKjW8SZuFGV-Xi0MsIk5d8tlegx2deL2seawNFabYZesFNVLnYOgVwJ1_dwAhmrh67Jtzm_1M/s1600/IMAGE_37CF4C55-4066-4CB4-BBAA-1135B478515F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvZKSRTF5FTVL776J7pIH_OIRF6hMqEw-x0bzOoz7tw1bKt9k0rDTPsQdqELL6XxW4wXeKjW8SZuFGV-Xi0MsIk5d8tlegx2deL2seawNFabYZesFNVLnYOgVwJ1_dwAhmrh67Jtzm_1M/s1600/IMAGE_37CF4C55-4066-4CB4-BBAA-1135B478515F.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186412.4365" class="" alt="" width="585" height="439"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small village in the countryside</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sPCJYXiI4kg/UdiMrkE9u-I/AAAAAAAAGgM/DHh-owOEbto/s1600/IMAGE_30BF895A-BA9D-4D0D-AF8B-6E5AF808C80B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sPCJYXiI4kg/UdiMrkE9u-I/AAAAAAAAGgM/DHh-owOEbto/s320/IMAGE_30BF895A-BA9D-4D0D-AF8B-6E5AF808C80B.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186374.9216" class="" alt="" width="320" height="263"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first windmills we came across</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-397zEbVSUAg/UdiMx6zCF0I/AAAAAAAAGgc/vTNh__-_Acw/s1600/IMAGE_34F58F24-7203-4971-97A6-60B6EC9E5E17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-397zEbVSUAg/UdiMx6zCF0I/AAAAAAAAGgc/vTNh__-_Acw/s320/IMAGE_34F58F24-7203-4971-97A6-60B6EC9E5E17.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186377.428" class="" alt="" width="220" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty good for a seventy year old!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJ1suzFCdZQgcYWaNplZ2T_EGI4GdmL8n4xYZI9k4zmessEpn9KAnf2Ojbi6TdkT7U2VczsgPiwoXuX2uq0XKcpWfpBoTp0Jes6kGyS8uClIXtnNBnN6YoXUbBYOAotQKrJG3gIMofvQf/s1600/IMAGE_A0D971E2-672F-43D2-83F8-F3DFE22B25AF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJ1suzFCdZQgcYWaNplZ2T_EGI4GdmL8n4xYZI9k4zmessEpn9KAnf2Ojbi6TdkT7U2VczsgPiwoXuX2uq0XKcpWfpBoTp0Jes6kGyS8uClIXtnNBnN6YoXUbBYOAotQKrJG3gIMofvQf/s1600/IMAGE_A0D971E2-672F-43D2-83F8-F3DFE22B25AF.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186402.2515" class="" alt="" width="472" height="432"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire having her turn, Molly looks worried!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cwgoEU8OiNA/UdiM3GxMxWI/AAAAAAAAGgs/yDNBKDIwXDc/s1600/IMAGE_9B7BE0D7-B1FF-4096-A9DC-6B67BC37572B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cwgoEU8OiNA/UdiM3GxMxWI/AAAAAAAAGgs/yDNBKDIwXDc/s1600/IMAGE_9B7BE0D7-B1FF-4096-A9DC-6B67BC37572B.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186402.3154" class="" alt="" width="437" height="279"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small ferry we had to take to cross a canal</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0SG5t5nV4SE/UdiN14UPlrI/AAAAAAAAGhM/FoYF8oLC5ug/s1600/IMAGE_1B39B32F-03D6-45C6-9407-C3AD0DC01623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0SG5t5nV4SE/UdiN14UPlrI/AAAAAAAAGhM/FoYF8oLC5ug/s1600/IMAGE_1B39B32F-03D6-45C6-9407-C3AD0DC01623.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186376.9817" class="" alt="" width="476" height="447"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break to see where we are</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wUikroGd2H4/UdiOFB3QzrI/AAAAAAAAGhc/toszOiRMPXk/s1600/IMAGE_B4D0E5E9-D236-44F8-BA88-2CD6A227EA8F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wUikroGd2H4/UdiOFB3QzrI/AAAAAAAAGhc/toszOiRMPXk/s1600/IMAGE_B4D0E5E9-D236-44F8-BA88-2CD6A227EA8F.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186407.2349" class="" alt="" width="452" height="464"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda, Molly and Claire at the North Sea</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tTZuZx2p_bQ/UdiOcYi5rjI/AAAAAAAAGiE/ENY7IlUYoE4/s1600/IMAGE_1656B3E2-C9E0-4C5A-AF16-0073C817D8F8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tTZuZx2p_bQ/UdiOcYi5rjI/AAAAAAAAGiE/ENY7IlUYoE4/s1600/IMAGE_1656B3E2-C9E0-4C5A-AF16-0073C817D8F8.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186425.6519" class="" alt="" width="629" height="344"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our boat, the Angela Esmee</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zb__LKxEpd0/UdiO1z0fbqI/AAAAAAAAGik/f7QTlUkbyg4/s1600/IMAGE_0EEAAE05-3E04-4AA6-AA13-4A41E1812C92.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zb__LKxEpd0/UdiO1z0fbqI/AAAAAAAAGik/f7QTlUkbyg4/s1600/IMAGE_0EEAAE05-3E04-4AA6-AA13-4A41E1812C92.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186468.2314" class="" alt="" width="533" height="406"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many thatched houses in the countryside</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UQQlvekoaA/UdiPTi4WmrI/AAAAAAAAGjE/RZGcuErhIn0/s1600/IMAGE_1E4DFA4C-B518-4002-9F91-0DF4CF39F601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UQQlvekoaA/UdiPTi4WmrI/AAAAAAAAGjE/RZGcuErhIn0/s1600/IMAGE_1E4DFA4C-B518-4002-9F91-0DF4CF39F601.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186458.9019" class="" alt="" width="529" height="397"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Ecomare</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_SIeHmCQNGw/UdiPrkwWHeI/AAAAAAAAGjc/1ygF92XGwBI/s1600/IMAGE_5CFE8703-26FB-42C9-8961-B38D8CA51C2B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_SIeHmCQNGw/UdiPrkwWHeI/AAAAAAAAGjc/1ygF92XGwBI/s1600/IMAGE_5CFE8703-26FB-42C9-8961-B38D8CA51C2B.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186446.0544" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="447" height="483"></a></p>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KZm_BlqBhE8/UdiQJr3RiII/AAAAAAAAGkM/sDcPkq5pow8/s1600/IMAGE_EF172FC3-1628-4F1B-985F-A92C22EE9E44.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KZm_BlqBhE8/UdiQJr3RiII/AAAAAAAAGkM/sDcPkq5pow8/s1600/IMAGE_EF172FC3-1628-4F1B-985F-A92C22EE9E44.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186423.437" class="" alt="" width="444" height="395"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out for a walk in a small town after a day of bike riding </td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rO1e1rREzLc/UdiQr_tTEEI/AAAAAAAAGkk/9iMg_7d8Yxg/s1600/IMAGE_06174A40-4DBB-460A-B66A-D2BCF1059B98.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rO1e1rREzLc/UdiQr_tTEEI/AAAAAAAAGkk/9iMg_7d8Yxg/s1600/IMAGE_06174A40-4DBB-460A-B66A-D2BCF1059B98.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186437.9504" class="" alt="" width="427" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lounge of our boat</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6s9O9T7OFE2VRfMnIB0gotQ0pRfXDqgO4njqx2gUl_I15uYji-kLzSqEgdSz4NkJwY0uoRSyPxI-t65FKQ6Wsd8NdAyMW-Qwa2fH8dN6GzzW5X80u8GQVVI6B5WZGY2XVQagpv-GaFI6/s1600/IMAGE_40FD3472-1091-433A-BFD1-F1BCC4AD5FD8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC6s9O9T7OFE2VRfMnIB0gotQ0pRfXDqgO4njqx2gUl_I15uYji-kLzSqEgdSz4NkJwY0uoRSyPxI-t65FKQ6Wsd8NdAyMW-Qwa2fH8dN6GzzW5X80u8GQVVI6B5WZGY2XVQagpv-GaFI6/s1600/IMAGE_40FD3472-1091-433A-BFD1-F1BCC4AD5FD8.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186473.7124" class="" alt="" width="320" height="755"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoorn</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UexWnBEG5Ss/UdiQ3NcJrRI/AAAAAAAAGk0/9GbVd2faeDk/s1600/IMAGE_EA95C399-F984-4F22-BDB9-F93A88748E1A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UexWnBEG5Ss/UdiQ3NcJrRI/AAAAAAAAGk0/9GbVd2faeDk/s1600/IMAGE_EA95C399-F984-4F22-BDB9-F93A88748E1A.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186496.2168" class="" alt="" width="392" height="524"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many beautiful harbours</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VPc4Xh4nyZc/UdiRUMQa0LI/AAAAAAAAGlk/o_H4eUZsfaY/s1600/IMAGE_3DECD7DE-1A77-4450-BB69-A130C5B9743C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VPc4Xh4nyZc/UdiRUMQa0LI/AAAAAAAAGlk/o_H4eUZsfaY/s1600/IMAGE_3DECD7DE-1A77-4450-BB69-A130C5B9743C.JPG" id="blogsy-1373181186519.3882" class="" alt="" width="485" height="409"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese demonstration in Hoorn</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-49388338024189882652013-06-26T08:53:00.000-07:002013-06-26T09:18:28.428-07:00Barcelona <p>Left Mazamet at 7 a.m. on Sunday morning for our three day side trip to Barcelona. Arrived around 11:30 a.m., found a parkade and checked into our hotel. Greater Barcelona has a population of 4.5 million and Barcelona proper a little over 1.6 million. It is the second largest City in Spain, after Madrid. The City hosted the Olympics in 1992 and in preparation for the games, the port area, which had previously been run down and littered with abandoned factories, was totally transformed and is now a sought after neighbourhood. The City is also known for the artistic works of the architect, Gaudi. </p>
<p>Barcelona is in the Catalan area of Spain and Catalan is their official language. All signposts, reading materials, menus, etc. are in Catalan first, then Spanish, then English. Robin speaks a bit of Spanish, and it came back to him very quickly. The Catalans understand Spanish, so not an issue. We could make out some of the Catalan words. For example "open" in Spanish is "abierto" and in Catalan is "abert". Catalan is a totally separate language and not a derivitave of Spanish. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>First thing, we bought tickets for the Hop on/off bus, which was in Plaza de Catalunya, only two blocks from our hotel. We took the Central line and toured the main part of the City for 1 1/2 hours. We have found that the hop on/off bus option works well when you only have a few days in a big City. It gives one a sense of the City, then you can decide where you want to visit. A great view of the wonderful mixed architecture and the many green spaces of the City. </p>
<p>After the bus route, we had a quick lunch. Brenda an I had a glass of sangria...very nice on a warm day. Walked to the Casa Batllo and La Pedrera, which are only a few blocks apart and very close to our hotel; both Gaudi architectural works. <br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AgLml2W9TcQ/Ucr76EXpydI/AAAAAAAAGUY/Hir6CGvm6fY/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-22%2525207%25253A58%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AgLml2W9TcQ/Ucr76EXpydI/AAAAAAAAGUY/Hir6CGvm6fY/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-22%2525207%25253A58%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1372263434912.9792" class="alignleft" alt="" width="297" height="604"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casa Batlo</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><br>
Casa Batllo is one of Gaudi's masterpiece and is a Unesco World Heritage Site. A striking facade and an ultra modern design inside the building. The colours are brilliant and designs are taken from nature. It is a remodel of a previously built home and was finished in 1904. Oval windows, sculptured stone work and wavy lines; not sure if there are any straight lines in the building. Much of the facade is decorated in broken ceramic tile. The roof is arched and is likened to the back of a dinosaur or dragon. The roof architecture is playful and colourful, a real delight. We were able to visit the complete building. <br>
Gaudi was born in 1852 and died in 1926. As a child he was ill and spent much time with his mother in the countryside. It is said that this time in the country was a great influence to his work. He also spent time in his Father's boiler- making shop and became familiar with volumes and shapes. He earned a degree in architecture at the University of Barcelona. </p>
<p> </p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-luTiw_QSCuc/Ucr79pOnjMI/AAAAAAAAGUg/TxBS8x4ZWIk/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-22%2525208%25253A05%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-luTiw_QSCuc/Ucr79pOnjMI/AAAAAAAAGUg/TxBS8x4ZWIk/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-22%2525208%25253A05%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1372263434952.915" class="alignright" alt="" width="376" height="351"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Pedrera</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Next we visited Casa Mila "La Pedrera", another Gaudi building. The building is comprised of two apartment blocks that are linked by an inner courtyard and common facade. In this building one is able to visit the attic, where you can see Gaudi's plans and scale models of his projects. Items that influenced his work are also on display. Then you go up to the Roof Terrace. As in his other building, the terrace is the area where Gaudi really exercised his playful and imaginative nature. Undulating forms of various shapes, sizes and colours dot the roofline, but all served a purpose as chimneys and ventilation shafts. Once again broken tile shards, stone, marble and glass are used. Finally a tour of the apartment which represents the bourgeois lifestyle of a family in the early 20th century. It is fitted out with furniture and household items of the time, as well as some of Gaudi's design elements. </p>
<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Had been hearng fireworks all day. Found out that the summer solstice is celebrated in Catalonia on the 23rd of June on the day of the Holy Saint Joan. They celebrate with campfires and fireworks and fire-crackers in all the streets. On this shortest night of the year, huge wood fires are built in all the squares and roads and young and old celebrate until the morning hours. Heard the firecrackers going all night and saw remnants of firecrackers everywhere the next day.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Went out to a Tapas bar near the hotel. Food was good and also an interesting way of eating your meal vs. only one entree. Glad to report that the wine in Spain is just as good as in France! A few sprinkles on our way to supper, but weather held out for us today (around 27 degrees) during our touring. </span></p>
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<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br>
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<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Monday, after the fireworks and we head out a little after 9 a.m. The streets are so quiet, it's as if you could make an apocalypse movie! Robin sees a security guard and asks if it is a holiday and we are told that it is a holiday for all of Catalonia today. So we figure we should be first in line at Sagrada Familia....wrong! Actually, not too bad, we only wait in line for one hour to get in and it was worth the wait. Took us about 15 minutes to walk from our hotel, which was in a very convenient location. </span></p>
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<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This basilica is hard to describe, another Gaudi gothic style treasure. It was started in 1892 and is still to this day under construction, although Gaudi died in 1926. He worked on the cathedral for 43 years, it was during the last 10 years of his life that he was totally dedicated to the building of the cathedral. It is a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is due to be completed in 2026, the centenary of Gaudi's death. They are still working off his original plans. The</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> completion of the cathedral is being financed by private donations and entry</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> fees. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Computer based technology has been used to accelerate construction of the building, which had previously been expected to last for several hundred years, based on building techniques available in the early 20th century.<span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span>Current technology allows stone to be shaped off-site by a milling machine, whereas in the 20th century, the stone was carved by hand.</span><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HZXiHqLuiWY/UcsBifvoDbI/AAAAAAAAGUw/TFWQbPaD1Fc/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-23%2525201%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HZXiHqLuiWY/UcsBifvoDbI/AAAAAAAAGUw/TFWQbPaD1Fc/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-23%2525201%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1372263434954.6907" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="514"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sagrada Familia</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">T</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">he outside of the basilica is in a gothic style mixed with art nouveau. The doors are made of bronze and are 5 meters high and sculpted with the entire text of the "Our Father" in Catalan and so has "Give us this day our daily bread" in fifty languages. Carved statues abound the outside of the building. The inside of the cathedral is filled with numerous columns in different shapes and made of different materials. Gaudi wanted one to think that they were in a forest when they were inside the church, so the columns represent trees. The ceiling is sculpted wherever one looks. The chandelier is spectacular and the crucifix with Christ is very moving. Stained glass windows abound, however some of the windows are plain. Not sure if this is to let in more natural light, or if they will be changed to stained glass in due course. The choir loft can hold up to one thousand people and of course detailed railings skirt the loft. </span></p>
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<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Gaudí's original design calls for a total of eighteen spires, representing in ascending order of height the Twelve Apostles, four Evangelists, the Virgin Mary and, tallest of all, Jesus Christ. Eight spires have been built as of 2010, corresponding to four apostles at the Nativity façade and four apostles at the Passion façade.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lD3KEZUNO-c/UcsBmI4FvaI/AAAAAAAAGU4/M5tJzbjGZa8/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-23%2525206%25253A12%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lD3KEZUNO-c/UcsBmI4FvaI/AAAAAAAAGU4/M5tJzbjGZa8/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-23%2525206%25253A12%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1372263434938.3394" class="alignright" alt="" width="500" height="426"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire at Tibidabo, the highest point of Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p>Got on to the hop on/off bus, but another route, which would bring us to the area known as Tibidabo the north part of the City. We then had to take a street car ( similar to the San Francisco street cars) , then transfer to a funicular to get to the top. There is a family amusement park there and a church, which overlook the City. The Temple de Sagrat Cor was interesting as it was a church built on top of another church. Beautiful views from here. Gave us a sense of the whole City, including the port. To get down, we took a local bus, another funicular, then the Metro to get back to our hotel. </p>
<p><br>
Brenda kindly asked the hotel for a dinner recommendation and we opted for seafood restaurant on the port. We all decided to have paella, and certainly this was the right choice. The waitress loved giving Robin a hard time. When he tasted the wine, he said "bueno" and she said..."what not muy bueno" ..from then on, the kidding continued. She brought bread with a tomato olive oil spread, salami and salted grilled peppers for a starter. We had our main course and desert, then the waitress brought some tradtional almond cake and finally a glass of grappa. Then went for a walk along the boardwalk of the port, a cab back to Catalunya square and a night cap while watching Nadal lose in the first round at Wimbledon.<br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YsV2i44ivdc/UcsBprtGukI/AAAAAAAAGVA/SZ6EWPcP1K0/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-24%2525202%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YsV2i44ivdc/UcsBprtGukI/AAAAAAAAGVA/SZ6EWPcP1K0/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-24%2525202%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1372263434997.436" class="alignleft" alt="" width="382" height="534"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in the Barri Gotic area of Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
Tuesday headed off to the Picasso museum. On our way there we walked through the narrow streets and alleys of the Barri Gotic before going to the museum. A lovely old area with many small artisan shops. At the museum, about a one hour wait. This museum has the most comprehensive collection of Picasso's work. A study of his early work, depicts many different mediums and a very classical style. A visit to Paris influenced his work (including Lautrec and many others) and he developed the "Picasso" style we know so well. Unfortunately unable to take picture inside the museum. </p>
<p>One last lunch in Barcelona, back to the hotel to pick up our luggage. Start walking the block and a half to the car park, then all of a sudden........oh! Oh! I know without a doubt that I threw out the parking stub for the car park. I had so many stubs from museums, trams, hop on bus, metro, etc. that I got rid of them that morning in our room. We go back to the hotel.....Marc ( the young man at the desk who had checked us in days earlier) Marc....I hope you can help. I proceed to tell him what I did, and he proceeds to call the cleaning staff. A maid shows up about five minutes later with a bag of garbage.....yes, I do go through the garbage. Fortunately, each room's garbage is in its own clear garbage bag. A few minutes into te process, I spot our garbage.....thank heavens we had wine in our room, much easier to spot your garbage when there is a wine bottle in it! I start going through the garbage, and YES, there s the parking stub. Meanwhile Brenda and Robin waiting patiently. We give Marc a tip for helping us out and thank him profusely. Back to the parkade....yikes...one hundred and five Euro to get out....talk about adding insult to injury! All part of the travel experience. Robin and Brenda still speaking to me after "the episode". </p>
<p>Robin and I have put Barcelona on our "come back" list, as we simply did not have enough time to fully discover it. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TX0FAt65Cp0/UcsGRxCnmkI/AAAAAAAAGVg/Fyc_AtGd2Ns/s1600/IMAGE_A6736D34-91B3-45F1-9988-F167B0F3CA36.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TX0FAt65Cp0/UcsGRxCnmkI/AAAAAAAAGVg/Fyc_AtGd2Ns/s320/IMAGE_A6736D34-91B3-45F1-9988-F167B0F3CA36.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434922.2605" class="" alt="" width="320" height="170"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The taxis of Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9sKjSd9Thw/UcsGTH0WCJI/AAAAAAAAGVo/1lQQWynQmk0/s1600/IMAGE_431ECDE2-0B63-41FE-AD31-02188D257E57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9sKjSd9Thw/UcsGTH0WCJI/AAAAAAAAGVo/1lQQWynQmk0/s320/IMAGE_431ECDE2-0B63-41FE-AD31-02188D257E57.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434982.7422" class="" alt="" width="245" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cauldron for the 1992 Olympics</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4Q7B6YFnr_5h-JEBIHK-wYTrn6tA-OAJWg5VNZIO3JdZoBf3v0FARaB4MFJ2qxkFIQN1issi948q4ddYNwgyuNoF9vssawMGPHJFAAHiseqW0GodMyNWmH9zFTdYByvpZ95kbRiF0Juh/s1600/IMAGE_47FB84D3-D7A8-45EC-9923-A9112114FCC9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4Q7B6YFnr_5h-JEBIHK-wYTrn6tA-OAJWg5VNZIO3JdZoBf3v0FARaB4MFJ2qxkFIQN1issi948q4ddYNwgyuNoF9vssawMGPHJFAAHiseqW0GodMyNWmH9zFTdYByvpZ95kbRiF0Juh/s320/IMAGE_47FB84D3-D7A8-45EC-9923-A9112114FCC9.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435011.6587" class="" alt="" width="205" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Joan Miro statue in a Barcelona park</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hirZLoSvgQ/UcsGWSQKhyI/AAAAAAAAGV4/yH4DL0LbeTY/s1600/IMAGE_504F51C7-31C2-4072-9810-AD21C4635DC4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hirZLoSvgQ/UcsGWSQKhyI/AAAAAAAAGV4/yH4DL0LbeTY/s1600/IMAGE_504F51C7-31C2-4072-9810-AD21C4635DC4.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434959.321" class="" alt="" width="475" height="249"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barcelona bike rental system</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5klp97pHpg/UcsGXgWx2RI/AAAAAAAAGWA/B8mV_dNlONI/s1600/IMAGE_ACA003B7-27F9-4CAD-BCD8-FEAD29E7AC7B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5klp97pHpg/UcsGXgWx2RI/AAAAAAAAGWA/B8mV_dNlONI/s1600/IMAGE_ACA003B7-27F9-4CAD-BCD8-FEAD29E7AC7B.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434971.0845" class="" alt="" width="408" height="318"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Barcelona covered market</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mdWbUXtrbTI/UcsGZguU3qI/AAAAAAAAGWI/0fUFwtHF0tQ/s1600/IMAGE_154E0871-D5DE-4F79-B3D4-B76FEDAE620C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mdWbUXtrbTI/UcsGZguU3qI/AAAAAAAAGWI/0fUFwtHF0tQ/s1600/IMAGE_154E0871-D5DE-4F79-B3D4-B76FEDAE620C.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434973.7988" class="" alt="" width="439" height="373"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many beautiful fountains in Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sEnFZLJ69bA/UcsGbtWhAtI/AAAAAAAAGWQ/XYLQYwFcAt8/s1600/IMAGE_F4A01663-5361-4973-A413-C1EFD5209EF4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sEnFZLJ69bA/UcsGbtWhAtI/AAAAAAAAGWQ/XYLQYwFcAt8/s1600/IMAGE_F4A01663-5361-4973-A413-C1EFD5209EF4.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434986.96" class="" alt="" width="401" height="430"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of many statues</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VbZZ6oYktR8/UcsGpENr4cI/AAAAAAAAGWg/_41I3XvxVMc/s1600/IMAGE_532B544D-6792-4F8F-BC6F-E3652E07A315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VbZZ6oYktR8/UcsGpENr4cI/AAAAAAAAGWg/_41I3XvxVMc/s1600/IMAGE_532B544D-6792-4F8F-BC6F-E3652E07A315.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434958.5947" class="" alt="" width="462" height="347"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casa Batllo</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ndsh6vY2eY/UcsGrRbix4I/AAAAAAAAGWo/RyZVwBiOiAc/s1600/IMAGE_D2E81F2A-81F5-44BE-A79A-480341329D77.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ndsh6vY2eY/UcsGrRbix4I/AAAAAAAAGWo/RyZVwBiOiAc/s1600/IMAGE_D2E81F2A-81F5-44BE-A79A-480341329D77.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435012.9854" class="" alt="" width="391" height="462"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking onto the street from the inside of Casa Batllo</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKHEWj2kmgk/UcsGtyMhbDI/AAAAAAAAGWw/CNPDw_fYSkI/s1600/IMAGE_07541004-FBE2-4D8B-A743-53AADCB96ACF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKHEWj2kmgk/UcsGtyMhbDI/AAAAAAAAGWw/CNPDw_fYSkI/s1600/IMAGE_07541004-FBE2-4D8B-A743-53AADCB96ACF.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434989.0396" class="" alt="" width="459" height="520"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful mosaics in Casa Batllo</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUlwepu89fc/UcsG8WvS7TI/AAAAAAAAGXI/blpAwDE0-XU/s1600/IMAGE_C6F8DB3D-7242-4D91-A219-0DE2B16BE3D5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUlwepu89fc/UcsG8WvS7TI/AAAAAAAAGXI/blpAwDE0-XU/s1600/IMAGE_C6F8DB3D-7242-4D91-A219-0DE2B16BE3D5.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435003.968" class="" alt="" width="399" height="451"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many rooftop sculptures at Casa Batllo</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on the Casa Batllo staircase</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hA97xvf5Pok/UcsHg3S5GfI/AAAAAAAAGYA/GTmlZoytuOQ/s1600/IMAGE_FE636034-E81B-4E3D-913C-4132151BC83D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hA97xvf5Pok/UcsHg3S5GfI/AAAAAAAAGYA/GTmlZoytuOQ/s1600/IMAGE_FE636034-E81B-4E3D-913C-4132151BC83D.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435002.3801" class="" alt="" width="462" height="424"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on the rooftop at La Pedrera</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uJ9CyxBa2BE/UcsHiiTuxJI/AAAAAAAAGYI/iKyhyb93eOM/s1600/IMAGE_0038BE02-EFFE-4623-9FA8-7C71C64515E2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uJ9CyxBa2BE/UcsHiiTuxJI/AAAAAAAAGYI/iKyhyb93eOM/s1600/IMAGE_0038BE02-EFFE-4623-9FA8-7C71C64515E2.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434949.5215" class="" alt="" width="481" height="364"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rooftop at La Pedrira</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMtCOOC0iUk/UcsHk2ziehI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/YtZJLLsbxxg/s1600/IMAGE_D61E9116-C356-480B-B3A9-E760EFD1FFF5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMtCOOC0iUk/UcsHk2ziehI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/YtZJLLsbxxg/s1600/IMAGE_D61E9116-C356-480B-B3A9-E760EFD1FFF5.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434993.049" class="" alt="" width="508" height="484"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Construction still going on at Sagrada Familia</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7SlqgbrYF4s/UcsHm0esMHI/AAAAAAAAGYY/cztDETCziYs/s1600/IMAGE_430230C7-251C-41A8-B353-2EFA036092D8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7SlqgbrYF4s/UcsHm0esMHI/AAAAAAAAGYY/cztDETCziYs/s1600/IMAGE_430230C7-251C-41A8-B353-2EFA036092D8.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434946.8408" class="" alt="" width="464" height="381"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The facade of Sagrada Familia</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CJonr_MhyZg/UcsHoyOOmfI/AAAAAAAAGYg/Ok7K0hmmyA8/s1600/IMAGE_27967005-6E64-4CDE-BC19-0B0A599FAEE6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CJonr_MhyZg/UcsHoyOOmfI/AAAAAAAAGYg/Ok7K0hmmyA8/s1600/IMAGE_27967005-6E64-4CDE-BC19-0B0A599FAEE6.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434936.5522" class="" alt="" width="405" height="509"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Claire waiting in line to get into Sagada Familia</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rlgj7DjqtAM/UcsHrHEZG8I/AAAAAAAAGYo/kSNgI-mjlps/s1600/IMAGE_1DFADF41-9B43-4F9B-AEC4-07E5230229C8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rlgj7DjqtAM/UcsHrHEZG8I/AAAAAAAAGYo/kSNgI-mjlps/s1600/IMAGE_1DFADF41-9B43-4F9B-AEC4-07E5230229C8.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434991.1094" class="" alt="" width="478" height="638"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful stained glass</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v6z6oPCHURg/UcsHtHL4S-I/AAAAAAAAGYw/LZjic8dO9Tk/s1600/IMAGE_A1F47E9E-67D1-4F76-8988-EB6D85414DE8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v6z6oPCHURg/UcsHtHL4S-I/AAAAAAAAGYw/LZjic8dO9Tk/s1600/IMAGE_A1F47E9E-67D1-4F76-8988-EB6D85414DE8.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434981.1514" class="" alt="" width="479" height="639"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cross</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj3sfZUuJcICzXuTmre6o-7GhaUg6u2unqZEm-Iu1uNSR4fotW1RI_46D6XVzd9PE2aia7BaWUp8x_hj5R1DzUeWz8PuLzBwVHRU1X_jjqs2SpIPvKXewXtKiMUW-5Hkth9GyP2NUOuazd/s1600/IMAGE_456FEBAF-68C0-4B58-9805-10E8E212B75D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj3sfZUuJcICzXuTmre6o-7GhaUg6u2unqZEm-Iu1uNSR4fotW1RI_46D6XVzd9PE2aia7BaWUp8x_hj5R1DzUeWz8PuLzBwVHRU1X_jjqs2SpIPvKXewXtKiMUW-5Hkth9GyP2NUOuazd/s1600/IMAGE_456FEBAF-68C0-4B58-9805-10E8E212B75D.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434951.0107" class="" alt="" width="355" height="474"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many staircases</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Na7YUPAE73Q/UcsH0RQKlII/AAAAAAAAGZQ/1PfJkWLyn1E/s1600/IMAGE_6F6BCB4C-C631-491F-B2D3-8E4349BB53BC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Na7YUPAE73Q/UcsH0RQKlII/AAAAAAAAGZQ/1PfJkWLyn1E/s1600/IMAGE_6F6BCB4C-C631-491F-B2D3-8E4349BB53BC.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434943.9226" class="" alt="" width="367" height="522"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Various pillars</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ9SeREGTV4/UcsIFFHq-5I/AAAAAAAAGZo/ChLVBBTzDlo/s1600/IMAGE_715B3C45-0BA5-43CD-ADED-03258896545C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQ9SeREGTV4/UcsIFFHq-5I/AAAAAAAAGZo/ChLVBBTzDlo/s1600/IMAGE_715B3C45-0BA5-43CD-ADED-03258896545C.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434983.466" class="" alt="" width="545" height="727"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The carvings on the exterior</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErYURgBsSk1OZ43EUhkICbrmzAAusYDbZIIHe_UA_y8ccCuhJdsLaOJ8p1WWdDJ5pLbzSHK2gjAaUpcWQf8qsEuEX1jlwdS7G4gxxuR7_BKKR34XYZkni_TtfOK5nwo9JVSkAnLHX2Myu/s1600/IMAGE_0648C69B-7E52-4E3B-93D3-0258B6196C59.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErYURgBsSk1OZ43EUhkICbrmzAAusYDbZIIHe_UA_y8ccCuhJdsLaOJ8p1WWdDJ5pLbzSHK2gjAaUpcWQf8qsEuEX1jlwdS7G4gxxuR7_BKKR34XYZkni_TtfOK5nwo9JVSkAnLHX2Myu/s1600/IMAGE_0648C69B-7E52-4E3B-93D3-0258B6196C59.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435014.2258" class="" alt="" width="368" height="365"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Church at Tibidabo </td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ScTdo_E7nmE/UcsIQxhpwGI/AAAAAAAAGaY/OrC0B_GVl7s/s1600/IMAGE_97F8E9D8-6B3C-4A77-9B15-565569A91848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ScTdo_E7nmE/UcsIQxhpwGI/AAAAAAAAGaY/OrC0B_GVl7s/s1600/IMAGE_97F8E9D8-6B3C-4A77-9B15-565569A91848.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434999.6711" class="" alt="" width="418" height="678"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great graffiti in the Barri Gotic</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5l2mikwKj-o/UcsITEX-4sI/AAAAAAAAGag/4GdsEpRUmHw/s1600/IMAGE_6C1DC0A1-D1C4-48C0-8FC9-218C68B23D6C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5l2mikwKj-o/UcsITEX-4sI/AAAAAAAAGag/4GdsEpRUmHw/s1600/IMAGE_6C1DC0A1-D1C4-48C0-8FC9-218C68B23D6C.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434966.996" class="" alt="" width="466" height="467"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVZPer4Jwbg/UcsLSPI7utI/AAAAAAAAGbU/Ms77GigvgVI/s1600/IMAGE_48AC0ED9-0358-4760-9DF8-B9AAC4C92623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FVZPer4Jwbg/UcsLSPI7utI/AAAAAAAAGbU/Ms77GigvgVI/s1600/IMAGE_48AC0ED9-0358-4760-9DF8-B9AAC4C92623.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263434968.9849" class="" alt="" width="530" height="621"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire and Robin on the port boardwalk</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZN5QIu8n1w/UcsLUhxdX2I/AAAAAAAAGbc/1R0z9aEq9pA/s1600/IMAGE_5A862A0F-D37F-4FAF-808D-058F90313363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZN5QIu8n1w/UcsLUhxdX2I/AAAAAAAAGbc/1R0z9aEq9pA/s1600/IMAGE_5A862A0F-D37F-4FAF-808D-058F90313363.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435002.8362" class="" alt="" width="400" height="448"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Claire on the boardwalk </td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6pewa5NRnDPR3byr6-eI0px0fm-2ZmpaTre14gUBlfxRkBuW2wKwwAsQpPvZXYAH07o70769AY3hfuAgpLP3cor9ArHF4ruR2G-nTV0QXnavpwOSa3N-xme6ZmSCTyxdPagiv5Nltm7A/s1600/IMAGE_85344579-BE44-4176-A38D-9D57990FCC72.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6pewa5NRnDPR3byr6-eI0px0fm-2ZmpaTre14gUBlfxRkBuW2wKwwAsQpPvZXYAH07o70769AY3hfuAgpLP3cor9ArHF4ruR2G-nTV0QXnavpwOSa3N-xme6ZmSCTyxdPagiv5Nltm7A/s1600/IMAGE_85344579-BE44-4176-A38D-9D57990FCC72.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435009.0696" class="" alt="" width="471" height="376"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a nightcap</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbECagS8fF8xfLkceXxTkMfy7wewYmbCDjEIxZ2x2UuSf_KQRHi-Yv75idWkyruQ4V1jaInmm2RR-71LoUgLCNLEmcBjU6y5HoBsQu5I7H10gtv0WTwtwJmT_2_K_6nUeQMzfEF4Rxd5J2/s1600/IMAGE_380584BB-5236-428E-AEC0-C03FD78525E4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbECagS8fF8xfLkceXxTkMfy7wewYmbCDjEIxZ2x2UuSf_KQRHi-Yv75idWkyruQ4V1jaInmm2RR-71LoUgLCNLEmcBjU6y5HoBsQu5I7H10gtv0WTwtwJmT_2_K_6nUeQMzfEF4Rxd5J2/s1600/IMAGE_380584BB-5236-428E-AEC0-C03FD78525E4.JPG" id="blogsy-1372263435008.7964" class="" alt="" width="545" height="425"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin and Claire at the Picasso museum</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-47143368562441168412013-06-22T13:12:00.001-07:002013-06-22T13:25:55.144-07:00Travels Continue<p>Wednesday the 19th and the clouds are sitting low in the Montages Noire and forecast of 20 degrees. Lazy morning reading, having tea, doing some grocery shopping and going to the boucherie (butcher) and poissonerie (fishmonger). In the afternoon, we headed off to visit the small town of Rabastens and two other towns about 1 1/2 hours from Mazamet. We arrive in Rabastens and walk around see the Ramparts, where the highlight was Brenda seeing a man walking 11 dogs. Then onto the Eglise Notre Dame Du Bourg, which is a Unesco World Heritage site. These churches are all very huge, and in some small towns, multiple churches. The three of us are Catholics, o.k. maybe not hardy practicing Catholics, but nonetheless ....enough already! The thing that blows our mind is the amount of real estate and the grandeur of these buildings and what people went through to build them. Maybe someone should start disposing of them; but who would buy them?......won't tell you what Brenda said when I asked that rhetorical question. </p>
<p>I decide to go into the tourist bureau to find out what else we can see. The woman says...have you seen the Ramparts...yes....have you seen the Cathedral....yes...there is a walk around the town centre that you can do....yes we have done that.....she says, I love your French accent...thank you....onto the next town.</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCZSBtxpYvGt1z3p4hg0zuApU7vgviWPavyUMxR9auTHPH5Gn11fvwEmq7RKiolqBq_ZhekOlS1V_G0vYLrr5kgZqROQhJ_VRcuJQBGPhigsS2Vwe9hcw1EwHYXxV59fA0pNPioMXlWak/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-18%2525208%25253A13%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCZSBtxpYvGt1z3p4hg0zuApU7vgviWPavyUMxR9auTHPH5Gn11fvwEmq7RKiolqBq_ZhekOlS1V_G0vYLrr5kgZqROQhJ_VRcuJQBGPhigsS2Vwe9hcw1EwHYXxV59fA0pNPioMXlWak/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-18%2525208%25253A13%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1371932329771.0254" class="alignright" alt="" width="500" height="400"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wine tasting in Gaillac</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>We decide to go to Gaillac, just because we notice a sign at the traffic circle that we are there ...really. This is a town that we were going to visit later in week, but heck, the sign says we are here, besides they are known for their wines. We park find the Caves de Vins and do some wine tasting.....oh my gosh, excellent wines. I am driving , so only a few sips of each. I know that some of my friends out there could not believe that I restrain myself, but I do, as I have an obligation to get Brenda and Robin back to Mazamet. Back home about 5:30 p.m. , where do the days go, we didn't even visit the other two towns on the list for today! </p>
<p> </p>
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<p>Pezenas was the chosen destination for Thursday the 20th. We had all heard of it as many friends and family have visited. Go to key in Pezenas into the GPS, doesn't accept. Try Beziers, a very large City nearby, doesn't even let us key it in. What's going on? It's overcast....do you think that could affect it? Try Montagnac...it works. Still questioning why it's not accepting the other two places that are larger in size. Aren't computers frustrating when they don't work. We even tried resetting and still no Pezenas. We agree that Robin has the best theory....they must have missed this little section of France in their mapping. Perhaps the mapping people had too much wine with their lunch! Gosh, we might have to use a map!</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--Sxv1GSPaTg/UcNeG388cWI/AAAAAAAAGQw/1e7RiPzUStM/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-19%2525207%25253A15%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--Sxv1GSPaTg/UcNeG388cWI/AAAAAAAAGQw/1e7RiPzUStM/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-19%2525207%25253A15%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1371932329717.7456" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="532"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Robin in Pezenas</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>As you can see by the picture above, we did make it to Pezenas. Had lunch at a small "salon de the" and the waitress was quite delightful. Robin noticed some gentlemen eating sausage and lentils next to him, so he said he would like to order that. I ask the waitress if it is possible to only have the entree of "Le plat du jour". In France, all restaurants offer a plat du jour and there are usually three prices listed. A little confusing the first time you see it, but it was explained to me by a restaurant owner in Albi. The highest price listed is for a soup or salad, with a main entree and desert. The second lower price is for the main entree with either the soup/salad or the desert. The last and lowest price is simply for the main entree. At this restaurant there was only two prices. So when I told the waitress that Robin only wanted the entree, she said the desert was included. I asked Robin if he wanted the desert, he said no. I relay this to the waitress, she says, then Madame will have the desert! We had the desert with three forks! Music in the background is Johnny Cash and Elvis. </p>
<p>Pezenas is a relatively small town , which is classified as "one of the most singularly beautiful towns in the French southwest". Beautiful ancient architecture and certainly a centre for arts and crafts. The narrow streets are filled with hand made goods of artisans such as leather goods, leaded glass, handmade toys, clothing, etc. The town was very busy with tourists and we spent an enjoyable few hours simply walking through the old streets looking into art galleries and shops.</p>
<p>Got home to see the news of the floods in and around Calgary, quite something. Mark and Susan, our kind friends and neighbours have been watching over our home and Mark went over to plug our drains in the basement. Our niece Nicole went over to take any important papers to safety. A big thank you to the three of you. Woke up Friday morning to find out our neighbourhood in Calgary had been evacuated. All of our friends in the neighbourhood are safe and bunking in with other friends or family in the City. Thinking of everyone back in Calgary and surrounding area. Flooding in southern France as well, but closer to St.Tropez, so not affecting us. </p>
<p>This weekend most towns and villages in the area are celebrating " vide greenier - empty the hay lofts". This is their summer celebration of bringing in the first crop. When driving around, we have noticed that the farmers are already planting a second crop. We are told that there will be bands playing at several street corners and in the town square.</p>
<p>Headed to the small town of Rennes-Le- Chateau, about 1 1/2 hours south of Mazamet for the day on Thursday. On the the way there, we stopped in Limoux for tea. Market day in Limoux and the cherries are in season, so we bought some, very tasty. Then onto Rennes-Le-Chateau an ancient abbey town, which is classified as the Languedoc's most intriguing site. In 1885, Father Berenger Sauniere, the new parish priest arrives in the town. Within the space of a few years he renovates several buildings and begins many construction projects. He had also started buying large tracts of land, placing the titles under the name of Marie Denardaud, the daughter of his housekeeper, sixteen years his junior. He built a luxurious home and beautiful gardens next to the church. He also renovated the church in a very garish style.</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSk3T70UfWYbiLIjkqkIy6t3te-aSdQjjERZaScOULRthxgr7zrED1QE7hA6QgRtBx3r_Q2UMWa8che-S1XsjcILT85XWNQGd0RVx5KGZYBzch4N5IkHX_KQJ5eFiI1xMGyErRepW_Io5/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-20%2525207%25253A13%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSk3T70UfWYbiLIjkqkIy6t3te-aSdQjjERZaScOULRthxgr7zrED1QE7hA6QgRtBx3r_Q2UMWa8che-S1XsjcILT85XWNQGd0RVx5KGZYBzch4N5IkHX_KQJ5eFiI1xMGyErRepW_Io5/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-20%2525207%25253A13%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1371932329746.1553" class="alignleft" alt="" width="288" height="541"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue from the church in Rennes Le Chateau</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>It is said that Father Sauniere and his consort, Marie gave generously to the local people and threw many parties, but kept a firm grip on the area. The church questioned where the money has come from. A rumour spread that the priest had discovered some sort of treasure. He was defrocked , but he continued the work on his villa and he continued to perform the sacraments in a chapel he built. He died in 1917 and she died in 1953. She refused to divulge where the money came from. It is believed that the priest found some ancient coins in digging up some graves. Due to these stories, the town attracted a steady string of treasure hunters. Also, due to the bizarre decor of the church it was thought to have symbolism and thought to have possible links to secret societies , the Templars, the Cathars and the Holy Grail. They say this was also an inspiration for Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code". Visited the church and museum. Believe it or not, the statue pictured here was inside the church. In all my years I have never seem something like this inside a church. </p>
<p>Stopped at "Le Jardin de Marie" for lunch. A beautiful garden setting, just beside the museum. Brenda and I had a glass of "blanquette de Limoux" a sparkling white wine that the area is known for. The production of this sparkling wine goes back to 1531. Blanquette means white in the Occitan language. </p>
<p>Off to Castres for the afternoon on Saturday. A walk around the various narrow streets, a peak at the gardens, we had seen them before, but Brenda had not, then off to find he Jean Jaures museum. He was born on Castres in 1859, was a writer, journalist and a member of parliament at 36 years of age. He was very concerned by social and economic issues of his day and participated in a local miners' strike, to defend workers rights. From then on, he became a spokesperson for the entire working class, trying to improve their rights . He founded a newspaper which allowed him to write about various socialist views he held. He was also a pacifist and supported Alfred Dreyfus (papillon), a young French soldier of Jewish descent who was wrongly accused of treason. Interesting to visit the Jaures museum.</p>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KEj1I9qenMs/UcYGnLwvHRI/AAAAAAAAGUM/DUL2LqnG2Ok/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-21%2525207%25253A26%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: left; float: left; "><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KEj1I9qenMs/UcYGnLwvHRI/AAAAAAAAGUM/DUL2LqnG2Ok/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-21%2525207%25253A26%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1371932329784.5632" class="alignleft" alt="" width="500" height="426"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying an afternoon sip of wine in Castres</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p>Turned out to be a beautiful day, so sat out in the Castres town square and enjoyed some wine and enjoyed seeing all the young French people enjoying each others company. Anther lovely relaxing day. Out for a lovely dinner tonight and off to Barcelona in the morning.</p>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FZGkiogLBzk/UcYCaCJAS6I/AAAAAAAAGRw/td5hq5ag5FQ/s1600/IMAGE_1E746FBB-0374-410E-B828-D8878C538E3C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FZGkiogLBzk/UcYCaCJAS6I/AAAAAAAAGRw/td5hq5ag5FQ/s320/IMAGE_1E746FBB-0374-410E-B828-D8878C538E3C.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329736.3213" class="" alt="" width="320" height="308"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pezenas</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7CfGNZUxcvccGGDmYFF62EOJG4P-v6pMz6KO8n-7TJdXWd7RQ2ksBi2paXTRtqDy635e2kkBDeLIHvECT13SnMSYXlmCubWdE16diXS1PT1tWDowZixz9JC8Vb9AlGbtBLwXOZ0YglEY/s1600/IMAGE_F16592B4-DEC1-4F36-BA25-E4D00AD8DCFA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7CfGNZUxcvccGGDmYFF62EOJG4P-v6pMz6KO8n-7TJdXWd7RQ2ksBi2paXTRtqDy635e2kkBDeLIHvECT13SnMSYXlmCubWdE16diXS1PT1tWDowZixz9JC8Vb9AlGbtBLwXOZ0YglEY/s320/IMAGE_F16592B4-DEC1-4F36-BA25-E4D00AD8DCFA.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329714.0288" class="" alt="" width="320" height="301"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gargoyle in Pezenas</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-92f0FZxM05U/UcYC9Nv0zbI/AAAAAAAAGSc/6CpcIDnZXt4/s1600/IMAGE_D470EA99-A8D0-4CA9-955F-FFE6D25A38E9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-92f0FZxM05U/UcYC9Nv0zbI/AAAAAAAAGSc/6CpcIDnZXt4/s320/IMAGE_D470EA99-A8D0-4CA9-955F-FFE6D25A38E9.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329729.782" class="" alt="" width="224" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire in Pezenas</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K6t0_I9EWnA/UcYC_GlXSII/AAAAAAAAGSk/gDCjtth0_3Y/s1600/IMAGE_7C900070-1B1A-451B-B54B-913CA64DE549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K6t0_I9EWnA/UcYC_GlXSII/AAAAAAAAGSk/gDCjtth0_3Y/s320/IMAGE_7C900070-1B1A-451B-B54B-913CA64DE549.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329755.3633" class="" alt="" width="320" height="310"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many artisan shops in Pezenas</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hBAxOXtHSkA/UcYDBWlPJ4I/AAAAAAAAGSs/TtOMDFIDeNA/s1600/IMAGE_7E94DAE8-93C6-4115-9EA4-019B13D27845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hBAxOXtHSkA/UcYDBWlPJ4I/AAAAAAAAGSs/TtOMDFIDeNA/s320/IMAGE_7E94DAE8-93C6-4115-9EA4-019B13D27845.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329774.773" class="" alt="" width="196" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda with a Pinocchio in Pezenas...don't ask!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYVIsKuKQF0/UcYDRpPDz8I/AAAAAAAAGS0/_Z4144MI5gw/s1600/IMAGE_044F9E24-F953-41FC-8A85-4CCEF1C1F9EB.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SYVIsKuKQF0/UcYDRpPDz8I/AAAAAAAAGS0/_Z4144MI5gw/s320/IMAGE_044F9E24-F953-41FC-8A85-4CCEF1C1F9EB.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329796.383" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The countryside in Rennes Le Chateau</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNPwl4HC039Bf6f9FOmg-iuA2QYFhNc2rQqD0zTWil-aAMd9C-Ay3jgmavE98R1hGbtYvkOsS93h5BJdolZxqHmiYcbUalFxrFXVu0r47iGl5ezW_IoO83FnfDUP9rxeQU3Ab287uTihX/s1600/IMAGE_5479F2B2-493C-49D0-B249-3B9C22F52FD0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNPwl4HC039Bf6f9FOmg-iuA2QYFhNc2rQqD0zTWil-aAMd9C-Ay3jgmavE98R1hGbtYvkOsS93h5BJdolZxqHmiYcbUalFxrFXVu0r47iGl5ezW_IoO83FnfDUP9rxeQU3Ab287uTihX/s320/IMAGE_5479F2B2-493C-49D0-B249-3B9C22F52FD0.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329751.255" class="" alt="" width="269" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rennes Le Chateau</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSpNCpZkJXVk7ZisaU75RSMXfnDsy7vxAsXaEX9Pt135ij2sAk7QU5nqXQc_6j3bLPAPUVhwbGvmsDYKT0Y1nBunP7tVTQKy_QeAgJuBqPzC5OEbkSl5iD-iBBgkALQUpCtnqjOYkia9-/s1600/IMAGE_E881A0EA-A8DA-4548-9FAA-ABDD673D0345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSpNCpZkJXVk7ZisaU75RSMXfnDsy7vxAsXaEX9Pt135ij2sAk7QU5nqXQc_6j3bLPAPUVhwbGvmsDYKT0Y1nBunP7tVTQKy_QeAgJuBqPzC5OEbkSl5iD-iBBgkALQUpCtnqjOYkia9-/s320/IMAGE_E881A0EA-A8DA-4548-9FAA-ABDD673D0345.JPG" id="blogsy-1371932329726.3484" class="" alt="" width="320" height="227"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire and Brenda having lunch in Rennes Le Chateau</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-43651459778591351802013-06-18T23:30:00.000-07:002013-06-18T23:40:02.983-07:00Next Chapter -Around Mazamet and Further AfieldFriday the 15th we drove to Toulouse, 1 1/2 hours away , to pick up our Sister -in-Law, Brenda. She will be spending the next two weeks with us in Mazamet, discovering more of the sites and we will be revisiting some that Robin and I think are worth seeing again. So glad she finally made it. The French air traffic controllers went on strike earlier this week for three days, causing Brenda to rebook her flight from Amsterdam to Toulouse. Fortunately Brenda had rebooked this leg prior to leaving Canada, so only one day delay in Amsterdam. <br />
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After welcoming Brenda to France, we drove into Toulouse for a quick visit. Lots of construction on the roads, as they are expanding their rapid transit system. There was an article in an airport magazine that stated that Toulouse was in crisis. In total opposite of what is happening in the rest of Europe, Toulouse is actually experiencing extreme growth and having trouble keeping up with housing and infrastructure. It has a population of 1.2 million in the metropolitan area and the population has grown at an average of close to 2% per year for the last ten years. The City is a centre of technology and the home of Airbus. They were just celebrating the success of the first Airbus A350 flight with banners in the main square. That flight affected Brenda's flight by about one hour. The city has the third largest University in France and this was very evident by the large numbers of young people in the City Centre. Also, one of Europe's largest cancer research hospitals is located here. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Claire in Le Capitole square in Toulouse</td></tr>
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We found Place du Capitole (the square at the centre of Toulouse) and wandered around some of the streets, through Place Wilson to Cathedral St.Etienne (yes, there are a lot of churches). Although we didn't get a chance to explore Toulouse as much as we would have wanted, still able to get a sense of the vibrancy of this City.<br />
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On Saturday, headed off once again to our local market. Just great to buy local food which is fresh and very reasonably priced. A quick coffee/tea break then off to visit Albi and Cordes sur Ciel. We did spend more time visiting the choir area of the Cathedral in Albi and amazed at the carved stone statues and beautiful woodwork. The whole Cathedral, walls and ceilings are painted. While having lunch in Albi a parade of vintage cars drove by. We have seen this several times on weekends while visiting various towns. Then off to Cordes sur Ciel, which is simply a delightful medieval village set on top of a steep hill. This town is now full of various artisans plying their wares in the old buildings. This fortified town was built in 1222 at the height of the war against the Cathars. <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ETeWSFiDkzs/Ub1i3EZOgWI/AAAAAAAAGLI/Ey1I_U93p14/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-15%25252012%25253A44%252520AM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignright" height="375" id="blogsy-1371623295124.8413" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ETeWSFiDkzs/Ub1i3EZOgWI/AAAAAAAAGLI/Ey1I_U93p14/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-15%25252012%25253A44%252520AM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin, Claire and Brenda at Domaine de Bonnery</td></tr>
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Treated ourselves to an absolutely wonderful meal at a restaurant situated on a farm about 10 kms. from Mazamet called Domaine de Bonnery. Great weather, sat in an outdoor dining room and experienced a wonderful meal. Only a choice of three entrees as they are a family run restaurant and they only serve fresh local food. Prior to receiving our main meal, we were served appetizers which included greek bruschetta, madagascar mussels, prosciutto with fresh melon and mushroom risotto. Then three of us chose lamb as our entree, then followed by desert. Thanks to a good friend, wine was paid for....thanks Patti. The farm also has an equestrian operation run by the owners' son and then to top things off their are peacocks roaming all over the property. Not sure why the peacocks are there, but they did provide entertainment as the various males were trying to impress the females.....Saturday night as Brenda says! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-goNtlgdgg3M/UcDBGVLoZkI/AAAAAAAAGLc/pJuxV8ETiWc/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-15%2525205%25253A47%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="351" id="blogsy-1371623295164.7483" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-goNtlgdgg3M/UcDBGVLoZkI/AAAAAAAAGLc/pJuxV8ETiWc/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-15%2525205%25253A47%252520PM.jpg" width="388" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Robin having lunch in Carcassone...yes we eat a lot!</td></tr>
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A one hour hike/walk this morning, then off to Carcassonne. We had simply toured the outside of the castle on our last visit, so nice to revisit. The view of the citadel with its turrets and walls is quite something from a distance. The chateau itself is from the 12th century, however the City was settled as far back as the 6th century. We toured the castle which afforded us great views of the countryside. There are three kms. of walls, including 31 towers. From the walls of the castle, we could see the snow peaked Pyrenees. It is said that the castle was the setting for the children's book "Puss and Boots". The walled fortress and castle had fallen into disrepair and in 1835 a historian and architect, Viollet-Le-Duc set about to restore the town. He had restored Paris's Notre-Dame. Great weather in Carcassonne, about 31 degrees with strong warm winds, which they call the Cers. They also have a more humid wind which is called the Marin. <br />
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Set out early Monday morning for Marseilles. Although this has never been a must see for Robin and I, Brenda had asked us if we would consider going as she wanted to visit an uncle's gravesite. He was a tailgunner during the Second World War and was shot down while delivering supplies to the resistance. We agreed to make this 4 hour trip from Mazamet and made plans to stay overnight. I think in the back of our minds we think of Marseilles as a seedy port town and shades of the movie, "The French Connection" come to mind. What a lovely surprise to find a bustling lively city full of tourists. Marseilles is the second largest City in France, after Paris and has a population of 835,000 in the City itself and 1.6 million including the nearby urban area. It is said to be the oldest City in France and one of the most visited; several cruise boats in the harbour. I think this City has been a total surprise for us. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yrIgU-7QAXE/UcDBJ7YihQI/AAAAAAAAGLk/i6vgcwFzarc/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-16%2525206%25253A17%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="446" id="blogsy-1371623295116.7495" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-yrIgU-7QAXE/UcDBJ7YihQI/AAAAAAAAGLk/i6vgcwFzarc/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-16%2525206%25253A17%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notre Dame de a Gard, Marseilles and the port in the foreground</td></tr>
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Driving in, we could see Notre Dame de la Garde, a church which towers on a hill above the City. On the top of the church steeple is a Madonna and Child which is 30 feet high and is covered in real gold leaf. Quite a striking site. The City is undergoing new road works, but we finally found our hotel, right on the port in the Canabiere area and checked in. We walked a bit around the port then to the west side of the port to Fort St.Jean and Fort St. Nicholas. It is said that the forts were built by Louis the XIV and that he had the forts built with the guns facing the City to keep the rebellious Marsellais under his thumb! These forts have been re-born and now house the National Museum of European Civilization and a Museum of Arts which was holding a film festival this week, so we didn't visit. The buildings in this port area are being refurbished and a few are quite modern, but they certainly complement the old. Walked across to the Cathedral de la Nouvelle Major. This cathedral is a basilica, but I can't find out why it is called major. There are only four major basilicas in the world, all of which are located in Rome. The cathedral is undergoing a cleaning of its exterior and unfortunately is closed on Mondays. As our time is very short here, we decided to do a bus tour, which lasted one and a half hours and took us to all the major sites of the City. The beach was packed, it was 375 degrees here....very hot but fortunately a breeze as we are by the ocean. By the way, I'm not complaining, just stating a fact!<br />
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A great dinner out at a seafood restaurant called La Daurade. We were entertained by a trio of musicians who made the evening enjoyable. <br />
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The next morning we headed off to find the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseilles to find where Brenda's uncle, Francis Coady was buried. He was only 19 years of age, a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force when he was shot down. When we found the cemetery the main gates were locked. This is a Commonwealth cemetery and is attached to a City of Marseilles cemetery, but separated by a high wall. We walked around the back to enter the local cemetery, but could not find any entry into the war cemetery, we even checked to see if we could climb the wall, but simply too high. We had noticed a grave stone maker's/ caretaker stall as we entered the gravesite, so we went back to look for help. A note indicated that he was out in the graveyard....this place is huge, how do we find him? Walked back into the cemetery to try to find him. We see a lady in a van in the cemetery, I ask her if she knows how to get into the war cemetery. Desole (sorry), she can't help us, but she tells us to check with the florist whose shop is just outside the cemetery. Go into the florist and we find two older sisters who own the shop. I ask them if they can help us....French of course.....conversation...<br />
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Claire: Mesdames , I hope you can help us. We are trying to get into the war cemetery, but all the gates are locked. <br />
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Mesdames : What, the doors are supposed to be open. Have you tried the caretaker?<br />
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C: yes, but the sign says he is in the graveyard, but we can't find him.<br />
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M: let us call the people who are in charge of the cemetery, why is the door locked ( door between the local and war cemetery). They try several phone numbers but can't find anyone to help. By the way, both sisters on two separate phones trying to reach someone. <br />
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M: let us try to call the caretaker...they get on the phone....talk to him. He is on a day off and having lunch with friends. If you want, he can come but can't get here till 2 p.m. (It is now around 11:30 a.m and 37 degrees outside). We contemplate.<br />
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C: We might try climbing over the wall, we saw a shorter wall on the west side.<br />
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M: We have a small step ladder, could you make it over the wall?<br />
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C: That would be helpful. <br />
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M: The other sister volunteers. I think you might need another ladder...once you get over the other side!<br />
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The three of us head off in the car with the small step ladders, as we need to get to the west wall. We put up one of the small step ladders and Brenda figures we can drop the other step ladder on the other side...quite a drop. We agree that Robin and I will stay on the other side. Brenda hikes herself over, hangs on to the stone wall, and finds the rung of the step ladder with her toes and climbs down...success. She takes out her map of the cemetery, which she got from the Canadian War Commissions, orients herself and finds her uncles grave. What a special moment as Robin and I watch from the ladder.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-IJAWLeD52RM/UcDBNZh8gSI/AAAAAAAAGLs/q78E_AvZBEA/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-17%2525204%25253A07%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="339" id="blogsy-1371623295118.0254" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-IJAWLeD52RM/UcDBNZh8gSI/AAAAAAAAGLs/q78E_AvZBEA/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-17%2525204%25253A07%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Commonwealth War Cemetery in Marseilles</td></tr>
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All of a sudden, we see the door that separates the two cemeteries open and a man walks through. He is looking around. We wave from the ladder and point to Brenda. He goes over ad he offers to take a picture of Brenda by her uncle's grave. He comes over to see Robin and I. I speak to him and we agree that he will take the step ladders back to florist and Brenda will go with him. We will meet them back at the florist. <br />
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We all congregate at the florist shop. The two sisters are so happy that we have been successful in our quest. The caretaker has taken the time away from a holiday and from eating a meal with friends to come and help us. They want us to write a letter to the head of the Marseilles cemeteries. They don't think it is right that relatives should come across the world to visit their loved ones and not get into the cemetery, after all they are the ones who have died to save France. What a wonderful yet unexpected adventure to find three French people who have been so helpful in our quest. I can't describe the feeling we had to come across these helpful souls. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZIgghM0E0q8/UcDBQ1qlb-I/AAAAAAAAGL0/bQwmwaHHlp8/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-18%2525206%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="375" id="blogsy-1371623295110.1985" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZIgghM0E0q8/UcDBQ1qlb-I/AAAAAAAAGL0/bQwmwaHHlp8/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-18%2525206%25253A42%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture a little blurry, but Brenda with the two sister florist and the caretaker</td></tr>
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We drive back to Mazamet, which took about 5 hours and are grateful for the safe drive, a whirlwind visit of Marseilles and the wondrous experience at the cemetery.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sf5cIdxINcA/UcDB-SjgmKI/AAAAAAAAGMM/YA21mOU4dtE/s1600/IMAGE_3954D1E8-93D0-41EC-B750-44C0F840B654.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="240" id="blogsy-1371623295108.9653" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sf5cIdxINcA/UcDB-SjgmKI/AAAAAAAAGMM/YA21mOU4dtE/s320/IMAGE_3954D1E8-93D0-41EC-B750-44C0F840B654.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Albi Cathedral</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nKRslUhUvE/UcDB_6B7ImI/AAAAAAAAGMU/HnsbbLusp5Y/s1600/IMAGE_8C283B3A-716D-495A-8E9C-F274A8E063B5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1371623295179.967" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nKRslUhUvE/UcDB_6B7ImI/AAAAAAAAGMU/HnsbbLusp5Y/s320/IMAGE_8C283B3A-716D-495A-8E9C-F274A8E063B5.JPG" width="219" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intricate carvings and painted walls of Albi Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6z_Ml5h4Dno/UcDCEVttnHI/AAAAAAAAGMo/h5fr8An-EOs/s1600/IMAGE_16871601-27C9-40BC-B405-6312988F3248.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="240" id="blogsy-1371623295200.771" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6z_Ml5h4Dno/UcDCEVttnHI/AAAAAAAAGMo/h5fr8An-EOs/s320/IMAGE_16871601-27C9-40BC-B405-6312988F3248.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage cars in Albi</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dFwwDlXSIA/UcDCF6qEy0I/AAAAAAAAGMw/GBNMXHM2Hpk/s1600/IMAGE_544E508D-76C5-4239-854F-649503899F36.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="181" id="blogsy-1371623295185.31" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dFwwDlXSIA/UcDCF6qEy0I/AAAAAAAAGMw/GBNMXHM2Hpk/s320/IMAGE_544E508D-76C5-4239-854F-649503899F36.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LPwJwra5XtE/UcDCJQ36BNI/AAAAAAAAGNE/ZlkcdLAxwyA/s1600/IMAGE_14C742D1-731A-4D88-A84F-16019A062F2F.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="300" id="blogsy-1371623295139.6902" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LPwJwra5XtE/UcDCJQ36BNI/AAAAAAAAGNE/ZlkcdLAxwyA/s320/IMAGE_14C742D1-731A-4D88-A84F-16019A062F2F.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bBTZbK12NQ/UcDCLi2sZVI/AAAAAAAAGNM/UP8JPrEyDMk/s1600/IMAGE_069565EA-E478-4BB8-81C9-912A7D046A1C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1371623295190.89" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bBTZbK12NQ/UcDCLi2sZVI/AAAAAAAAGNM/UP8JPrEyDMk/s320/IMAGE_069565EA-E478-4BB8-81C9-912A7D046A1C.JPG" width="192" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda and Claire huffing it up the hill in Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mroFVx_BPi8/UcDCYsppp5I/AAAAAAAAGNg/X8lDsu5Ys2A/s1600/IMAGE_7E324336-10F8-4E50-A4AD-982756FD8C2E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="240" id="blogsy-1371623295152.8276" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mroFVx_BPi8/UcDCYsppp5I/AAAAAAAAGNg/X8lDsu5Ys2A/s320/IMAGE_7E324336-10F8-4E50-A4AD-982756FD8C2E.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice picture of the countryside from Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carcassone fortress</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marseilles port</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HPkuYFnt0To/UcDDBWILR3I/AAAAAAAAGOQ/SYloVmgJbK8/s1600/IMAGE_72EAF269-A7FF-4712-AE10-B6ED2C0E8929.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1371623295147.948" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HPkuYFnt0To/UcDDBWILR3I/AAAAAAAAGOQ/SYloVmgJbK8/s320/IMAGE_72EAF269-A7FF-4712-AE10-B6ED2C0E8929.JPG" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue in the centre of Marseilles</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A church right on the port</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A museum in Marseilles. A modern building which complements the old</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire and Brenda walking in the port area</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cathedral de Nouvelle Major, Marseilles</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the port</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beach in Marseilles - 37 degrees</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coastline road in Marseilles </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral of Notre Dame de la Gard</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XhL9X1-BbfI/UcDDeb4pheI/AAAAAAAAGPo/uFh72MNrzO0/s1600/IMAGE_B8EDFA7D-F61B-4726-8CE2-5273CEDB09E3.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1371623295139.3516" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XhL9X1-BbfI/UcDDeb4pheI/AAAAAAAAGPo/uFh72MNrzO0/s320/IMAGE_B8EDFA7D-F61B-4726-8CE2-5273CEDB09E3.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda after having successfully climbed over the cemetery wall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVb2Fi5owEB0iGgZSkVYlN5n6bCfBfoKYfIcWfisy4nRK2HyDit0dHnbOwFQXOsFACiqA1vJKZrPISpZBvON8pW5tV18FAgJ4X4zdEkvBxkDHPI98tUT-n_jdIzsk8IpUI2sRjD_LNuyxJ/s1600/IMAGE_4BCCF53A-EF57-442E-B474-922F61DB857C.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="216" id="blogsy-1371623295159.0713" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVb2Fi5owEB0iGgZSkVYlN5n6bCfBfoKYfIcWfisy4nRK2HyDit0dHnbOwFQXOsFACiqA1vJKZrPISpZBvON8pW5tV18FAgJ4X4zdEkvBxkDHPI98tUT-n_jdIzsk8IpUI2sRjD_LNuyxJ/s320/IMAGE_4BCCF53A-EF57-442E-B474-922F61DB857C.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Commonwealth Cemetery in Marseilles </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KqZa1f5WlRk/UcDDuq1mqRI/AAAAAAAAGQI/cWEDcyPeUq0/s1600/IMAGE_3D5EAFF9-4C5C-416B-8C91-11654976D464.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="242" id="blogsy-1371623295191.5159" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KqZa1f5WlRk/UcDDuq1mqRI/AAAAAAAAGQI/cWEDcyPeUq0/s320/IMAGE_3D5EAFF9-4C5C-416B-8C91-11654976D464.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brenda at her Uncle's grave</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on a ladder with a watchful eye over Brenda</td></tr>
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Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-74307111460577482492013-06-11T08:55:00.001-07:002013-06-13T11:13:17.053-07:00Small treasuresOn Tuesday the 11th, we headed off to the the local market in Mazamet to buy a few things for the next few days. Then the four of us (Suzanne, Colin, Robin and I) headed off to Albi. We visited the Toulouse Lautrec museum and were very impressed with the collection. The museum is housed in the Palais de la Berbie which was built during the XIIIth century and is next to the Sainte Cecile Cathedral. The Toulouse-Lautrec museum houses the biggest collection of his works. It chronicles his work from his early paintings to the portraits of brothels and night life in Paris, which he is most known for, especially posters. He was a great portraitist and a painter of nature. Henri de Toulouse-Letrec was from a very wealthy family, however his parents were first cousins. He suffered from congenital heart condition and bone disease which are attributed to inbreeding. He broke both his legs at an early age and they never healed properly and this was the cause of his short stature. He developed an adult torso while retaining his child size legs. He died at 36 years of age.<br />
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Next a stop at the Sainte Cecile Cathedral, which I referred to in a previous post. A short walk along the Tarn river, lunch and then went to view the gardens of the Berbie Palace. Also dropped in to see the Saint-Salvi cloister and chapel. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gardens at the Berbie Palace in Albi</td></tr>
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Then drove to Cordes sur Ciel, said to be the most well preserved of Bastides towns in the Albi region. It is situated on a steep hill and one can appreciate why the surname of the town is "sur-Ciel"...in the sky. We only gave ourselves one hour here, which was definitely not enough. Robin found a knife shop, but fortunately we didn't have time to stop...took his picture though! This town was founded in 1222. Always amazed at the history of Europe, considering Canada is such a young country. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in front of the Laguoile knife shop in Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suzanne and Colin taking a break in Cordes sur ciel</td></tr>
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Wednesday the 12th and Suzanne and Colin left this morning. Their visit was simply too short, but still very happy that we could spend a couple of days with them. Robin and I went for a one hour hike up the local hill to a cross, then off to the Haut Languedoc for the afternoon, about an hours drive from Mazamet. The wildflowers are in full bloom in the hills.<br />
The first town we visited was Olargues, which is classified as " one of the prettiest villages in the area". It is perched above the River Jaur, on a rocky outcrop with a mountain ridge as its backdrop. There is a medieval bell tower which remains in the town, from the 11th century. I think we were the only visitors in the town, even the cats thought we were an intrusion. We then took some steep narrow mountainous switchback roads to the lake area. Stopped in the small village of Fraisses sur Agout to quench our thirst. It was 31 degrees at one point in the day. This town got its name from the tall ash trees ( Fraisses is the Occitan word for ash) and here I thought they were talking about strawberries....although fraise (strawberries) only has one "s". Nearby a memorial to the Second World War resistance fighters. We have come across a few of these in our travels. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olargues</td></tr>
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Continuing down the road to Villelongue located on Lac du Laouzas. You would almost think you were in Swizerland, a small area of cottages along the lake. Back to Mazamet along windy roads...another enjoyable day, and finally some warm weather. <br />
The conversations with locals always continue to amuse and surprise us. <br />
.........Stop for tea a local shop where we have been before. The owner says, as do all shopkeepers when you enter their establishments...."Bonjour Monsieur/Dame" ...literally meaning , good morning Mister/Madam....just sounds better in French. Think I mentioned in a previous posting that people walking into shops and restaurants will also say "good day" to all those already there. O.K. Off my original train of thought.....the tea shop owner recognizes us and says in French....well at least the weather has improved, did you know it was 30 degrees in Moscow? We said, we didn't want to go to Moscow and the weather was nice today...he says... This has been the worst spring...we say..it's o.k. , we are on holidays. It's as if all the locals are apologizing for the cooler than normal rainy weather! <br />
........go to the butcher...he says..where are you from.....Canada, we say....he says, you don't have an accent...Robin says in a nasal tone...wein...something Quebecers would say. I have to tell him that I am from Western Canada and don't have the nasal twang like the Easterners. He then proceeds to tell us of various places we should visit in and around Mazamet. The people here have been very friendly. Like anywhere else we have travelled, you simply have to engage people to be well rewarded. <br />
....stop in a small town today for a "refreshment". I say to the owner...what a lovely day, summer is here. His reply...let's hope! People all over the area cannot believe the wet spring. <br />
In our travels in the countryside, you see lots of small signs, all with different names. It is a custom that one names ones home, especially in the countryside. This is how people find your location. It is also nice to see the hundreds of small villages. In North America small villages like these would be deserted. Our favourite small town is one we drive through quite often. It is called "Le Cun". As with all towns in France, it has a sign when you enter the town and another with a slash through it to advise you are leaving the town. In Le Cun, the two signs are five seconds apart! Last week in the local paper a mention was made of a reunion of residents of Le Cun...it was held in a barn.....really...that's true! <br />
As I am reading up on some more history of the Cathars, I keep coming across the name of Simon de Montfort as a leader in battles against the Cathars. Think I already spoke about him. The Albigensian Crusade ( named after Albi ) started in 1209 through 1244, the object being to stamp out Catharism. It took 80 more years to obliterate Catharism, mainly due to the Inquisition and burning at the stake. Considering the Cathars did not believe in procreation, wouldn't they just have died off....just asking?<br />
My sister in law Brenda was supposed to have arrived in France on Thursday the 13th. Robin noticed an article on the Internet on Monday indicating that the French air traffic controllers were going on strike for three days, so we contacted Brenda. This type of work stoppage is quite common in Europe....unions always going on strike for one reason or another. Her plans are to delay her flight to Toulouse from Amsterdam till Friday morning, hopefully all will be running smoothly by then! <br />
On Thursday the 13th, we headed off to Narbonne for the afternoon. As you approach the city, you see the Cathedral looming in the distance. Wineries in abundance in the countryside around Narbonne. It has a well preserved central town with a pedestrian zone. The centre is bisected by the Canal du Robine, so a very nice setting; boats were lined along the canal in the centre of town. The market was also happening, so lots of vendors selling everything from clothes, home goods, hardware, cosmetics, etc. This town has quite a history. It was once the capital of a Roman province into the Middle Ages, and home to an important Jewish University. In the mid 1300's everything went awry. The Jews were expelled, the plague struck, the Black Prince burnt down the town, the dykes of the Aude River burst and the port silted up which all led to the decline of commerce in the area. Prosperity did not return till the 1800's with the birth of the modern wine industry, which today is still the major industry in the area. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YnK9xE6j8fs/Ubn9YI_OjPI/AAAAAAAAGGM/akCLOhgt72I/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-12%2525205%25253A55%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignright" height="487" id="blogsy-1371146991337.213" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YnK9xE6j8fs/Ubn9YI_OjPI/AAAAAAAAGGM/akCLOhgt72I/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-12%2525205%25253A55%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cathedral in Narbonne</td></tr>
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The Cathedral de St. Just et St. Pasteur is said to be the tallest in France, and construction was started in 1272. Beautiful stained glass windows and great buttresses adorn the church. The original plans were never finished as the extension would have meant destroying the original town walls, so it has an odd footprint. A wall that was built for the expansion, still stands today attached to the cathedral. A nice cloister is also attached to the cathedral. <br />
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A pedestrian walking area in the centre with very narrow winding streets. The centre Cours Mirabeau, is being totally repaved and upgraded with fountains which I am sure will add to the beauty of the centre. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chez Bebelle in Les Halle's, Narbonne</td></tr>
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We poked our noses into the permanent market, Le Halle. It reminded us of the St.Lawrence Street market in Toronto or the Granville Island market in Vancouver. We decided to go in, most of the vendors were already closing up, but there was an area where people were milling about and lunch was being served. We decided to have lunch there. Oh my gosh, it was so much fun just watching the goings on. The owner is a former rugby player and he is the maestro of the whole operation. You have to see him to tell him you would like a spot. When he seats you, he eventually returns and quickly recites what is available to anyone who has just sat down. Set menu, but they specialize in tartare, including horse tartare, which seemed very popular. Once you tell him what you want, he gets out a bullhorn and yells over to either the meat counter or the chicken counter (these are separate vendors in the market) for either an order of tartare, chicken or beef. The meat vendor wraps up a section of meat, enough for one order of tartare, then flings it over everyone's head to the Maestro. He has a group of workers who then put the various orders together. So for instance, if you order tartare, they spread out the meat, add spices and top it off with a raw egg yolk. We did not opt for the tartare. He also has his own wine with personalized labels! What a pleasant and fun find!<br />
We then decided to drive to the "plage" -oceanside, as Narbonne a bit inland, but not very far. The Gruissan Plage is full of bland condos and seems overbuilt, lots of for sale signs. Besides the beach and marina, not much else to do here. Struck us as very tacky..<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful roses everywhere in the country</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The countryside around Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin on Olargues</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olargues</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0uy89io0-Jg/UboDiz0KWFI/AAAAAAAAGIE/iUaamGgcQPs/s1600/IMAGE_7AC43CE4-380D-4A61-A02B-381200945DFC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="250" id="blogsy-1371146991347.4597" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0uy89io0-Jg/UboDiz0KWFI/AAAAAAAAGIE/iUaamGgcQPs/s320/IMAGE_7AC43CE4-380D-4A61-A02B-381200945DFC.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A back alley in Olargues, think we were the only two people there!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac du Laouzas</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcuIKpkW5nmZ7Z-AZTun8dZdPEvSqGLy1dRUTrgzIIIFuBKw20JyR0J0SytKcBFfje9Nvsl7Rs0JS1QDu-rEXfn6f6L4Dpx0VOW4CGuA9jP4gbnfJpCmiQqdmWTQHvQ1UIIFu6DCAfjWw/s1600/IMAGE_D66EF618-2A3B-4FA0-8924-E801E8EDB4BC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="240" id="blogsy-1371146991354.2908" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcuIKpkW5nmZ7Z-AZTun8dZdPEvSqGLy1dRUTrgzIIIFuBKw20JyR0J0SytKcBFfje9Nvsl7Rs0JS1QDu-rEXfn6f6L4Dpx0VOW4CGuA9jP4gbnfJpCmiQqdmWTQHvQ1UIIFu6DCAfjWw/s320/IMAGE_D66EF618-2A3B-4FA0-8924-E801E8EDB4BC.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narbonne. The Robine canal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Les Halle's, Narbonne</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire waiting for lunch in Narbonne</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheval tartare, yes horse meat-it was very popular</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sun dial at the Cathedral in Narbonne</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Narbonne Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPTj8cSZoHg/UboEET2B7pI/AAAAAAAAGJs/SgKB1CKJDSw/s1600/IMAGE_4C07305E-0DB9-4D1A-9CCF-6E9C734B65D8.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="608" id="blogsy-1371146991431.263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPTj8cSZoHg/UboEET2B7pI/AAAAAAAAGJs/SgKB1CKJDSw/s1600/IMAGE_4C07305E-0DB9-4D1A-9CCF-6E9C734B65D8.JPG" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The interior of the Narbonne Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--XRPwnuaP9Q/UboEGF4QZPI/AAAAAAAAGJ0/YwgZfxRa_nE/s1600/IMAGE_643D4F0C-CBF4-4800-93BC-5CB81DF4F90B.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="396" id="blogsy-1371146991432.6592" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--XRPwnuaP9Q/UboEGF4QZPI/AAAAAAAAGJ0/YwgZfxRa_nE/s1600/IMAGE_643D4F0C-CBF4-4800-93BC-5CB81DF4F90B.JPG" width="485" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A striking building on the pedestrian zone f Narbonne</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0MHU0YOxAZbHlUsJ6Af3P-DmvKn3mZAxtgy0gEBvFv2hR0Wx6EdGAZmS_gy0kD1wF2dSsmnslOrWyYfIALsJHh8Gq_yuht_qIHGMJBOPVqhQVV9uXwxNqj-OCcJOlCFtkyT7XtR3dsWy/s1600/IMAGE_5892F387-1BE4-4DA2-BBC2-CADA919AB0A8.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="352" id="blogsy-1371146991382.9075" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0MHU0YOxAZbHlUsJ6Af3P-DmvKn3mZAxtgy0gEBvFv2hR0Wx6EdGAZmS_gy0kD1wF2dSsmnslOrWyYfIALsJHh8Gq_yuht_qIHGMJBOPVqhQVV9uXwxNqj-OCcJOlCFtkyT7XtR3dsWy/s1600/IMAGE_5892F387-1BE4-4DA2-BBC2-CADA919AB0A8.JPG" width="505" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The marina in Gruissan </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XpT9ux7tDYF01b-0NGUbGPcoDAZhe-Uuy_zDOPBYDVB8wbTGPpxscQa4m3TUoA_Jv5WNGccAMYVVJFNQy8LLM3r5l7kKrrsjHVqAVlcrX2lZZaOvjxiIOaMbBk-yaUfpriyEcgUdyI5U/s1600/IMAGE_1677E88D-C37D-4264-9BAD-9E975F214795.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="240" id="blogsy-1371146991410.509" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XpT9ux7tDYF01b-0NGUbGPcoDAZhe-Uuy_zDOPBYDVB8wbTGPpxscQa4m3TUoA_Jv5WNGccAMYVVJFNQy8LLM3r5l7kKrrsjHVqAVlcrX2lZZaOvjxiIOaMbBk-yaUfpriyEcgUdyI5U/s320/IMAGE_1677E88D-C37D-4264-9BAD-9E975F214795.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beach at Gruissan </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2vnYnQYAe74/UboGurk_xfI/AAAAAAAAGKg/TfqB-NBnES4/s1600/IMAGE_EF62D237-C73C-4A8E-951B-964B896FE35E.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="400" id="blogsy-1371146991415.2593" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2vnYnQYAe74/UboGurk_xfI/AAAAAAAAGKg/TfqB-NBnES4/s1600/IMAGE_EF62D237-C73C-4A8E-951B-964B896FE35E.JPG" width="439" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire and on the left Suzanne and Colin climbing up a very steep lane in Cordes sur Ciel...a little out of order</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lb3xiJmketg/UboHcuAjJ5I/AAAAAAAAGKs/rBp17T15z20/s1600/IMAGE_8AAB5B1B-6DAF-4F4C-B900-5ECE04D46E98.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="333" id="blogsy-1371146991463.353" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lb3xiJmketg/UboHcuAjJ5I/AAAAAAAAGKs/rBp17T15z20/s1600/IMAGE_8AAB5B1B-6DAF-4F4C-B900-5ECE04D46E98.JPG" width="444" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cordes sur Ciel</td></tr>
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Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-81701773626090024182013-06-10T09:52:00.000-07:002013-06-10T09:59:27.583-07:00Around Mazamet<p>Well, we have finally got some great sunny skies in Mazamet, the locals are ecstatic. On Wednesday the 5th, we headed out for a hike on the highest mountain around here, Pic de Noire at 1,211 metres (3,970 ft.). This area has had a lot of log cutting/clearing over the years; but replanting is taking place. The trails up here are not as well marked as previous trails, but didn't stop us; just great to be out hiking. Then drove to the top of the mountain and had our lunch. We could see the Pyrenees in the distance, which still had some snow. Stopped at a small roadside inn for a dessert after our walk, not sure if we walked sufficient to warrant the dessert, but what the heck, wanted to check out this place for dinner later in the month.<br>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DZk131Ox_YORAai72c-4NY91lLR2ScAGIEwrIAfcPaZdayhXmnst1mTA3IyOtHAfBrMoZge4lT4-C7Kob50nO1_dXefm5LCjzEIsqxjrUhTEwnMueW4aoW0pTqfMHf2jlf1qWUQWDzVC/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-04%2525204%25253A09%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DZk131Ox_YORAai72c-4NY91lLR2ScAGIEwrIAfcPaZdayhXmnst1mTA3IyOtHAfBrMoZge4lT4-C7Kob50nO1_dXefm5LCjzEIsqxjrUhTEwnMueW4aoW0pTqfMHf2jlf1qWUQWDzVC/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-04%2525204%25253A09%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561705.267" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="429"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Pic de Noire</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
A hike from the back gate of our gite up to Hautpoul on Thursday. The first part of the trail is an old Roman Road made of stones and logs. Due to the amount of rain in this area in the last week, lots of water running down the trail so quite slippery, also very steep. A total of about 2 1/2 hours with a stop in the medieval village to visit a young apprentice practising the art of "marqueterie" - inlaid work of variously coloured woods or other materials. The owner of the shop, a Monsieur Robert Hautpoul, was not in the shop. When asking the young apprentice about the various woods that he was working with, he mentioned one was from "Guyane"....as most of you know, Robin is from British Guyana, so we mentioned this. Well he goes on to tell us that the Patron (owner) spent thirty years logging in French Guyana...yikes, what a small world. We will definitely go back in the weekend to meet the owner. <br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kOFry7IK0Ss/UbX4sTadK4I/AAAAAAAAGCI/pKlqoczzScs/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-05%2525207%25253A30%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kOFry7IK0Ss/UbX4sTadK4I/AAAAAAAAGCI/pKlqoczzScs/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-05%2525207%25253A30%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561735.647" class="alignright" alt="" width="334" height="543"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marqueterie </td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Drove to Revel , a Bastide, which is a medieval town built from scratch in the 14th century. A typical Bastide consists of a grid of perpendicular streets converging on a central town square, lined with arched galleries. The town also has beautiful corbelled houses, which are typical in medieval villages. in the Middle Ages housing tax was based on ground floor surface area and on the number of windows. As most homeowners wanted more floor space without having to pay extra taxes, they exploited the loophole in the tax system by projecting their first and second floors over the ground floor, creating an overhang effect. Revel is also the centre of marqueterie and the start of the Canal du Midi. We visited the marqueterie museum which was very informative and had beautiful works of art. <br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dBX3J8WHqug/UbGJ_DaeEaI/AAAAAAAAGBc/TvNHPlwzfcQ/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-05%2525206%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dBX3J8WHqug/UbGJ_DaeEaI/AAAAAAAAGBc/TvNHPlwzfcQ/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-05%2525206%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561698.5635" class="alignleft" alt="" width="500" height="331"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The centre of Revel</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>Then a drive just out of town to Lac de Saint-Ferreol, which is the principal reservoir of the Canal du Midi and is a Unesco World Heritage site. The lake was built in the 17th century by Pierre-Paul Riquet, the genius behind the Canal. The canal runs for 240 kms. from the River Garonne at Toulouse to the Mediterranean at Agde or Sete. Riquet was a minor nobleman and the holder of the lucrative salt-tax concession for Languedoc. He influenced King Louis XIV that this was a good idea and the project started in1667, took 14 years to build using tens of thousands of workers. The biggest problem was how to feed the canal when the Meditterenean is obviously at sea level, the Garonne at 132 metres (433 feet) and in the middle the Col de Naurouze at 201 metres (659 feet). Riquet's solution was to build a system of dams and reservoirs. </p>
<p>I have to make a correction in facts to a previous post concerning "pastel". We visited an artisan in Revel who specializes in the art of pastel. I was led to believe that the colour of the dye came from the yellow flower....wrong, it comes from the leaf. It takes 1 ton of leaves to produce 2 pounds of dye. The art dates back to the 13th century and the blue colours are absolutely beautiful. The seeds of the flowers are used in perfumes, face and hand creams. </p>
<p>On Friday the 7th off for a 1 1/2 hour hike in the area of our gite. We are fortunate to have these at our doorstep. Then off for lunch to the town of Castelnaudry. I previously mentioned that cassoulet is a dish of the region, well Castelnaudry is the birthplace of cassoulet, so what better place to try it. So much history in France even around this humble dish. It is said that when Black Prince Edward besieged the town during the 100 year war, the defenders gathered the last of their provisions, which amounted to some beans and scraps of meat. Not only did they manage to concoct a culinary delight under extreme duress , the dish fortified their efforts against the English. It is said that the English fled as they did not have the strength considering their diet was only watery baked beans! Today the cassoulet is still basically the same...white beans, garlic with bits of pork and sausage. </p>
<p>Actually, the biggest draw of Castelnaudry is not the cassoulet; it is the section of the Canal du Midi that runs through the town as there is a large basin in the canal. Funny enough one of the boat charter companies that runs out of here is "Le Boat", the company we have used on two separate occasions in other canals. Nice walk along the canals to walk off our cassoulet!<br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AalRAosSQLE/UbIWr2JutcI/AAAAAAAAGBs/9m3J__wWh8k/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-06%2525205%25253A01%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AalRAosSQLE/UbIWr2JutcI/AAAAAAAAGBs/9m3J__wWh8k/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-06%2525205%25253A01%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561750.6296" class="alignleft" alt="" width="373" height="378"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plane trees along a countryside road</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
One remarkable thing about the canals in the south, are the plane trees that usually line each bank. They provide shade as well as stability to the banks of the canals. These plane trees are also seen all along the country roads. Unfortunately for the last ten years, the trees have been attacked by a fungal infection and are dying and there is a program underway to cut down these beautiful trees in the hope that the fungal infection can be stopped. Sounds reminiscent of our pine beetle problem in Canada. These types of diseases really change a landscape. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><br>
A few observations regarding small towns in France. <br>
In most small villages you will find numerous pharmacies, banks, insurance companies, hairdressers and parfumeries. You might say, yeah, so what. Well it is simply the number of them, just not something you would see in North America.<br>
Lots of cyclists in this area, some much older gentleman as well. It is odd however to see any women cyclists. Lots of marked routes for cyclists and they are well respected by vehicles.<br>
A nice custom we have noticed is when locals enter a restaurant/bar, they look around and say "bonjour/bonsoir" to all the patrons. </p>
<p>Sometimes I wonder if it's just my quirky sense of looking at things. Recently at a restaurant, I was sitting opposite the main door and couldn't help but notice the various stickers on the windows and door. For example "rated in Michelin in 2009"......o.k. what has happened since then.....has the restaurant not achieved a rating since then? Has it gone downhill? Should I be eating here? If you were the owner, wouldn't you remove the sticker not to cause questions from people like me? Just thought I would share my inner thoughts! <br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-I4HpdgL8WRA/UbIWu5mOJsI/AAAAAAAAGB0/aK3x6eP7eek/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-06%2525204%25253A49%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-I4HpdgL8WRA/UbIWu5mOJsI/AAAAAAAAGB0/aK3x6eP7eek/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-06%2525204%25253A49%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561720.8066" class="alignright" alt="" width="319" height="361"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dove Côte</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>In the countryside, we have noticed ancient dove cotes. They are quite elaborate and have been constructed in farmers fields since the Middle Ages. They housed the pigeons which provided food and fertilizer, which helped the rural economy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><br>
O.K. Saturday night and just got back from dinner, another great meal. However this time drove 15 kms. into the countryside on a very windy mountainous road. Had just skyped our daughter Chris, son in law Gav and the girls before leaving for dinner and told them we would only have a 1/2 pichet of wine for dinner considering the roads.....good call as there was a serious thunder storm and lots of rain. Don't think the French are capable of a bad meal....definitely a diet upon our return. Fois gras as an appetizer...yum! Poor ducks and geese. I know there is a lot of controversy about fois gras, but it is a specialty of France. They are the largest producer in the world by far and last year made over 18 tonnes. I won't detail the process! </p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9i958LYDl8k/UbX4u6Q6WTI/AAAAAAAAGCQ/PtCK0IW5sh0/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-09%2525201%25253A02%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9i958LYDl8k/UbX4u6Q6WTI/AAAAAAAAGCQ/PtCK0IW5sh0/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-09%2525201%25253A02%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561715.8545" class="alignleft" alt="" width="380" height="292"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lastours Cathar ruins</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
More rain on Sunday, so decided to take a drive to Lastours, a site of Cathar ruins. Will say these ruins were more impressive than those we had seen in Saissac, and the setting here is much more dramatic with wonderful tall cedars throughout the site. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Back to our gite to await the arrival of Robin's sister, Suzanne and her husband Colin. They arrived from Barcelona after spending five days there with Billie and Terry (Robin's brother). Our first day in the rain, we headed to Carcassonne, and walked around the old town. Both Suzanne and Colin have visited the City before, so we did not enter the castle itself. Robin and I will be returning here later in the month. Then drove through the countryside to the town of Limoux. This town is known for "blanquette", a sparkling white wine. The town itself has nothing of interest, so just had lunch in a restaurant in the town square. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://https//lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BmRvOCW-pRU/UbX4x6ZCbuI/AAAAAAAAGCY/h8HuYA0FO1U/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-09%2525201%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BmRvOCW-pRU/UbX4x6ZCbuI/AAAAAAAAGCY/h8HuYA0FO1U/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-09%2525201%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1370883561772.3022" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carcassone</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVhdOVEAZVM/UbX80r8aqGI/AAAAAAAAGC4/DmW6nxViynQ/s1600/IMAGE_EE687604-7B25-4FCB-90CF-C9980E26FD70.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dVhdOVEAZVM/UbX80r8aqGI/AAAAAAAAGC4/DmW6nxViynQ/s320/IMAGE_EE687604-7B25-4FCB-90CF-C9980E26FD70.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561739.663" class="" alt="" width="320" height="298"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac Ferreol</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UBkXZXf5mSM/UbX9EtFNlfI/AAAAAAAAGDA/bLRs_wuak3M/s1600/IMAGE_DC369FE3-306F-4D7E-9F04-21E9427259E6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UBkXZXf5mSM/UbX9EtFNlfI/AAAAAAAAGDA/bLRs_wuak3M/s320/IMAGE_DC369FE3-306F-4D7E-9F04-21E9427259E6.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561715.8416" class="" alt="" width="320" height="263"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cassoulet</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-meiKe7SHjE8/UbX9QH0whBI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/O8cq8tazya0/s1600/IMAGE_CFE688D7-D764-4A97-BC40-009255000F9D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-meiKe7SHjE8/UbX9QH0whBI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/O8cq8tazya0/s320/IMAGE_CFE688D7-D764-4A97-BC40-009255000F9D.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561699.627" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Castelnaudry, the Canal du Midi</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g9lG1dU9tkc/UbX9XLta7wI/AAAAAAAAGDY/Xwp8pf8VTeQ/s1600/IMAGE_A4F76925-C70A-4A25-B201-4BB30266177E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g9lG1dU9tkc/UbX9XLta7wI/AAAAAAAAGDY/Xwp8pf8VTeQ/s320/IMAGE_A4F76925-C70A-4A25-B201-4BB30266177E.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561730.9607" class="" alt="" width="275" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire in the rain in Carcassonne</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7OMLhi_1qfn4NLGPyJkTX7YM90CxI5K5-imx6OV1Kp4ALQApFc8p-gouLeD_3P075h3bgZ-kSYleU4icCamvmYQJZdYY30s4jJCxLV9W5DjD1Zz8OUbxd_qpeFIBcF8946adbv49WvkA7/s1600/IMAGE_27BE7E21-7BC6-4198-B591-13C2284FAD1B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7OMLhi_1qfn4NLGPyJkTX7YM90CxI5K5-imx6OV1Kp4ALQApFc8p-gouLeD_3P075h3bgZ-kSYleU4icCamvmYQJZdYY30s4jJCxLV9W5DjD1Zz8OUbxd_qpeFIBcF8946adbv49WvkA7/s320/IMAGE_27BE7E21-7BC6-4198-B591-13C2284FAD1B.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561722.942" class="" alt="" width="320" height="264"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carcassonne</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-caOIGSFt-Gk/UbX9aYFxsTI/AAAAAAAAGDs/Zc4v77NSzLw/s1600/IMAGE_BC7D7D08-0BB2-4461-8C4B-643C0A127A2C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-caOIGSFt-Gk/UbX9aYFxsTI/AAAAAAAAGDs/Zc4v77NSzLw/s320/IMAGE_BC7D7D08-0BB2-4461-8C4B-643C0A127A2C.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561706.4736" class="" alt="" width="320" height="268"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the foreground with their backs to us, Suzanne & Colin in Carcassonne</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JRVgKAkldSc/UbX9cJekt2I/AAAAAAAAGD0/RrFZaDEoV6g/s1600/IMAGE_FAE42355-A732-45F2-8E11-940A2BF25643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JRVgKAkldSc/UbX9cJekt2I/AAAAAAAAGD0/RrFZaDEoV6g/s320/IMAGE_FAE42355-A732-45F2-8E11-940A2BF25643.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561782.773" class="" alt="" width="320" height="282"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Te walls of Carcassonne</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKgBWm2FER0/UbX9feTnBAI/AAAAAAAAGEE/0-qp0eS0gEI/s1600/IMAGE_F2AC3109-CFF4-4946-A3D8-DC9BD6DCE6BF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKgBWm2FER0/UbX9feTnBAI/AAAAAAAAGEE/0-qp0eS0gEI/s320/IMAGE_F2AC3109-CFF4-4946-A3D8-DC9BD6DCE6BF.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561788.751" class="" alt="" width="318" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suzanne & Colin</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfuar7mGmu0D3WGjh1RfZT6vkuSUB5ZovxdC9C-nQJK7mbq1Y_fxQSrWAvwORF2lT_giDY-LomMa96dPP82FoYgmJSXl303dGKcHPxhWX1RGlS-cV_fDbIuOjC3YOzZcaOGwbneyK-0RQ/s1600/IMAGE_DB9EA555-37D1-469A-8D97-96F62C988AEC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfuar7mGmu0D3WGjh1RfZT6vkuSUB5ZovxdC9C-nQJK7mbq1Y_fxQSrWAvwORF2lT_giDY-LomMa96dPP82FoYgmJSXl303dGKcHPxhWX1RGlS-cV_fDbIuOjC3YOzZcaOGwbneyK-0RQ/s320/IMAGE_DB9EA555-37D1-469A-8D97-96F62C988AEC.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561711.676" class="" alt="" width="320" height="299"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The giraffe made of marble dust and resin that Suzanne so badly wanted, it was so cute!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0QvBafh61E/UbX9i0jV6yI/AAAAAAAAGEU/TVzTpOUdBfM/s1600/IMAGE_593808C7-5C07-40BC-8A6D-A6E5E3FA3C82.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0QvBafh61E/UbX9i0jV6yI/AAAAAAAAGEU/TVzTpOUdBfM/s320/IMAGE_593808C7-5C07-40BC-8A6D-A6E5E3FA3C82.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561717.378" class="" alt="" width="320" height="285"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire, Suzanne & Colin in Carcassonne</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmPc3eXk6OXuTNG2KbrPy5fs2Ru1BtsofQcFzm2G7JYpKQZygzbLh8i8pl8rmlUBv_LVoDTZSqI36Q81glGw3teP4P9qUBlcuXvTnn6OCSL7vXJq9_ZKEMIWbino9EhskXWvEeRS78RX-/s1600/IMAGE_ABDC27C4-0507-48B2-9FB8-F567EDD2F144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmPc3eXk6OXuTNG2KbrPy5fs2Ru1BtsofQcFzm2G7JYpKQZygzbLh8i8pl8rmlUBv_LVoDTZSqI36Q81glGw3teP4P9qUBlcuXvTnn6OCSL7vXJq9_ZKEMIWbino9EhskXWvEeRS78RX-/s320/IMAGE_ABDC27C4-0507-48B2-9FB8-F567EDD2F144.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561732.7573" class="" alt="" width="320" height="220"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An interesting fountain in Limoux</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YbkVw8xwjJ0/UbX9nkMbMzI/AAAAAAAAGEs/JM1uTdJ2CHY/s1600/IMAGE_2CA14535-22FF-41DD-8016-9CC762AB9DD6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YbkVw8xwjJ0/UbX9nkMbMzI/AAAAAAAAGEs/JM1uTdJ2CHY/s320/IMAGE_2CA14535-22FF-41DD-8016-9CC762AB9DD6.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561741.2947" class="" alt="" width="320" height="244"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lastours Cathar ruins....a little out of order!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb252SsZsU4/UbX9p1Z6_gI/AAAAAAAAGE0/U9_Pqr2Y3rc/s1600/IMAGE_D09DFD60-6C45-4A62-8709-C6D824A34ACD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tb252SsZsU4/UbX9p1Z6_gI/AAAAAAAAGE0/U9_Pqr2Y3rc/s320/IMAGE_D09DFD60-6C45-4A62-8709-C6D824A34ACD.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561744.827" class="" alt="" width="270" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in the rain in Lastours</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kg8RMrUUZPw/UbX9rwPce6I/AAAAAAAAGFI/Vnnp_h0hgT8/s1600/IMAGE_48E5AFDA-D42A-4956-814B-253E6BF046C7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kg8RMrUUZPw/UbX9rwPce6I/AAAAAAAAGFI/Vnnp_h0hgT8/s320/IMAGE_48E5AFDA-D42A-4956-814B-253E6BF046C7.JPG" id="blogsy-1370883561804.2869" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lastours</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-6595311949899554452013-05-31T22:25:00.002-07:002013-06-04T12:37:55.702-07:00MazametOn May 31st, 2013, we left Nice after our month there, and drove to Mazamet, a 6 hour drive. The drive went by quickly as we were on an autoroute and I had downloaded an audio book on my IPad, that we played through the car radio. Most people will not have heard of this town, as it is not a tourist destination. We chose Mazamet for a few reasons. It is a working town, set in Les Montagnes Noir (hopefully hiking), in the Western part of France (an area we want to discover) and relatively close to Barcelona, which we will be visiting later in the month. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tarn</td></tr>
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Mazamet is located in the Department of the Tarn along the River Thore and is one hour north of Carcassone, a fortified village which most people visit if they are in this area. In the late 1800's Mazamet was one of the largest tanning and textile centres. It happened quite by accident. The story goes that some imported sheepskins went mouldy and this made the wool fall off the hide after washing the wool in the local river...no need to shear the sheep.....wow, what a discovery! Another word for those of you who play "Words with Friends"......"fellmongery" - wool removal without shearing. They were able to process the wool and the hide after the animals had died. The bonus was that the sheep had already been butchered for meat, therefore they were able to save even more money. This brought prosperity to this area and there are several grand mansions dotting the hillsides. Today, there are still some tanning and textile factories. They also say that the water from the Arnette river is very soft and helps with the tanning of skins. We have been told that the leather manufactured in this area is used in high end purses....guess I won't be seeing any of that, since I only carry a small purse under duress! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qwO6222e62U/Ua2L8S9xq0I/AAAAAAAAFxU/3ig-Dwcuol4/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-02%25252011%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignright" height="299" id="blogsy-1370374562427.349" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qwO6222e62U/Ua2L8S9xq0I/AAAAAAAAFxU/3ig-Dwcuol4/s403/Photo%2525202013-06-02%25252011%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" width="403" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Gite</td></tr>
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Our gite is located on the property of the owner on the edge of the old town, walking distance. They think that this building used to be a summer cottage for a mansion at the end of the block; the gite faces south. Six sets of French doors that look onto the owners' garden. Very comfortable and well stocked. We even had a welcome basket of bread, homemade jam, butter, milk, cookies and oh yes, a bottle of wine. Had tea with the owners, who are an English couple who have moved here from Wales. They are both professors of art, but with cutbacks happening in the academic world, they decided to make the move. I had to laugh, a guidebook I read said that Mazamet is lacklustre. That may be the case, but we chose it due to its location near the mountains. Quiet and lacklustre is nice!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mWflT4JllU8/UaooihDGSrI/AAAAAAAAFw0/cBF6DcVtxHM/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-01%25252010%25253A02%252520AM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="419" id="blogsy-1370374562499.5464" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mWflT4JllU8/UaooihDGSrI/AAAAAAAAFw0/cBF6DcVtxHM/s441/Photo%2525202013-06-01%25252010%25253A02%252520AM.jpg" width="441" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vendor selling his local made wine...check the containers</td></tr>
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Weather here is very cool and rainy, however supposed to get better on Sunday. The sun actually came out on Saturday afternoon! On our first full day in Mazamet, we went to the local market which takes place in the central square on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Only a two minute walk from our gite. Every type of food vendor, so no need to go to a grocery store...several Bouchers (butcher) , poissonerie (fishmongers), Boulanger (bakers) and other fruit and vegetable vendors. We will definitely be supporting the locals. One of the vendors was selling prepared meals such as paella, cassoulet (a local dish with porc and white beans), and various other dishes. The picture above shows a farmer selling his local wine (lots of vineyards a little south of this area). The containers look like plastic gas Jerry cans. People bring their own containers, mainly empty 2 litre pop bottles. <br />
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Then decided to drive to the town of Castres so I could buy a pair of longer slacks....summer definitely still not here in the mountains! When we arrived in town, we came across a huge screen set up in one of the local squares. We soon found out that the Castres rugby team is playing tonight against Toulon for the French championship in Paris. We were told by a waiter that the population of Castres was about forty thousand and that half had gone to Paris for the match. Very clear that this town is rugby crazy. The teams colours are blue and white. Most buildings had blue and white balloons, banners, team flags and even the City Hall was decorated in blue and white. All the mannequins in the shop windows were also dressed up in blue and white. We happened to walk by a chocolate shop that had chocolate in the shape of rugby balls and shoes. Also, the teams shop was so crowded, not another person could have fit in. Found out that Castres won in an upset for the first time in 20 yrs. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8TMuL22BpB4/UaoomE-NdUI/AAAAAAAAFw8/HpDcVU5JxZY/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-01%25252012%25253A33%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" title=""><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="374" id="blogsy-1370374562472.6902" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8TMuL22BpB4/UaoomE-NdUI/AAAAAAAAFw8/HpDcVU5JxZY/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-01%25252012%25253A33%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate rugby balls and cleats</td></tr>
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Lunch at a small tea shop and the two couples next to us and the waiter were talking about the rugby game. I asked the gentleman next to me if the game was being televised and if so, at what time. Well, once again a wonderful half hour conversation with this couple, probably about our age. When they found out that we were renting a gite from an English couple, they told us they had a gite on their property in a small town nearby. The woman asked " Why would we rent from English people,they don't know anything about the country". She may be right, but certainly won't be sharing that with our current landlords! They gave us their business card for the next time we want to rent in France. <br />
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Visited the Goya Museum which was in a lovely old building, but the museum only had three Goya's, so not sure why it carries his name. Then drove to the small village of Brassac, which had a 12th century stone bridge. Wonderful rolling wooded countryside, with farms dotting the hills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NVkhe-tgcEo/UaoopADe_bI/AAAAAAAAFxE/WkVSXJu55dk/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-01%2525203%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="389" id="blogsy-1370374562419.2283" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-NVkhe-tgcEo/UaoopADe_bI/AAAAAAAAFxE/WkVSXJu55dk/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-01%2525203%25253A59%252520PM.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 12th century bridge in Brassac</td></tr>
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So, it's Saturday, we go out for dinner to the local pizzeria/brasserie. I speak French....owner....where are you from....Canada....omg....our new best friends are the owners of the restaurant, they spent 3 years living in Trois Rivieres in Quebec. They gave us a list of must visits, confirming the list with other patrons in the restaurant....love it when this happens! Walking home, all the pubs are showing the rugby match. Get home, no rugby match on Sky TV...yes Robin is upset, so he has to watch the French Open instead...o.k. smile back on his face.<br />
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Is it my red hair? As we were walking to dinner on Saturday night, we heard a car beeping it's horn...look around, they are behind us and waving. We stop, a woman runs out and asks us the location of a certain restaurant. I tell her we are tourists, but I just happen to know where this restaurant is, as we plan on going there later in the month. Being asked for directions is something that has happened to us on several occasions since being in France. Is it my hair colour (a lot of French woman do have red hair) or is it that we just blend in and don't look like tourist's. Interesting in either case. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://https//lh6.googleusercontent.com/-be_F5dAYiXE/Ua2MB94hozI/AAAAAAAAFxc/S2sII_7CZFI/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-01%2525205%25253A18%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank" title=""><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="455" id="blogsy-1370374562497.0967" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-be_F5dAYiXE/Ua2MB94hozI/AAAAAAAAFxc/S2sII_7CZFI/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-01%2525205%25253A18%252520PM.jpg" width="427" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first hike in the Mazamet area</td></tr>
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Sunday, the 2nd, decided we need to find a hiking trail and we do. The trails are not what we would call hiking trails, but more like walks in the countryside including through farmers fields. Very reminiscent of some of the hikes we did in Ireland. Walked for close to two hours, then back to where we started to visit the 13th century Cathar village of Hautpour, perched on the hillside giving wonderful views of Mazamet. Made the most fabulous discovery of a wonderful little restaurant in this ancient village, so we decided to have lunch. As we were walking back to the car I commented how inexpensive lunch had been. Robin said, they must have forgotten the cost of the wine. I ran back and spoke to the waiter and the owner and indicated that we probably owed them more. They laughed and said "no, it was their gift to us". I told them we would be back. It is possible to walk to this ancient town from Mazamet, which we will do the next time.<br />
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Monday the 3rd we find another trail to hike in the Montagnes Noir, just about one km. from our gite. Finally some blue sky. Great two hours of hiking in different terrain from yesterday, hiking through chestnut tree forests. Then a drive to the small village of Saissac, a Cathar site. I am quite taken by the Cathar history. A recent book ( The Templar Legacy) was based on the Cathar's. A little history lesson..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hu8RQQwb3kA/Ua2MFvfceVI/AAAAAAAAFxk/_xZb2EqOCno/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-02%2525206%25253A35%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignright" height="432" id="blogsy-1370374562493.8723" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hu8RQQwb3kA/Ua2MFvfceVI/AAAAAAAAFxk/_xZb2EqOCno/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-02%2525206%25253A35%252520PM.jpg" width="324" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The remains of a Cathar castle in Saissac</td></tr>
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"The Cathar condemned the Roman Catholic Church, arguing that it did not respect the teachings of Christ. The "bons hommes" believed themselves to be the only true disciples of the Apostles. They practiced the art of extreme poverty and worked with their hands to earn a living, like weaving. They <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: justify;">were strict about biblical laws, notably those about living in poverty, not telling lies, not killing and not swearing oaths. </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="text-align: justify;"> Cathars believed in reincarnation </span><span style="text-align: justify;">and refused to eat meat </span><span style="text-align: justify;">or other animal products. The Catholic Church looked upon the Cathar's as heretics".</span></span></div>
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The walls of the castle are crumbling due to the fact that a treasure seeking group bought the property in 1862 and dynamited parts of the castle, hoping to find a supposed Cathar treasure. Taken over by the French Historical society, the site is now protected. <br />
The market on Tuesday's in Mazamet (also Saturday) has a few different vendors, along with more clothes vendors. We bought our fish, meat, cheese, bread and vegetables....set for the rest of the week. Then off to Albi, which is the largest City in the Tarn area and is about 60 kms. from Mazamet. The hallmark is Sainte Cecile cathedral which was built in the XIII century and is a Unesco World Heritage site. It is said to be the largest brick cathedral in the world. It is in the Gothic style, but also said to be a militant style of architecture, meant to underline the strength of the Catholic Church against the Cathar heresy, which I wrote about earlier. The interior is entirely painted and the organ, from the 18th century, is a masterpiece. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hSaVn6PNB8A/Ua45brQWECI/AAAAAAAAGA4/l14m_goMfWo/s1024/Photo%2525202013-06-03%2525206%25253A41%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="498" id="blogsy-1370374562430.4304" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hSaVn6PNB8A/Ua45brQWECI/AAAAAAAAGA4/l14m_goMfWo/s500/Photo%2525202013-06-03%2525206%25253A41%252520PM.jpg" width="373" /></a> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sainte Cecile Cathedral, Albi</td></tr>
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Albi is also the home of the Toulouse-Lautrec museum which we will see on another visit. When we have been hiking and driving through the countryside, we have noticed a bush with yellow flowers. We learnt today that it is called "pastel" and produces a blue dye. You can find all sorts of cloth products, cosmetics and pottery items which are blue in colour and referred to as "pastel". Albi flourished in the fifteenth century based on the trade of pastel and a type of saffron. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGP5lU8MwPc/Ua2ce2U1_0I/AAAAAAAAF5k/wKKbpCavR_s/s1600/IMAGE_2D691283-62BE-4F72-9412-55857BF8C721.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1370374562480.1396" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SGP5lU8MwPc/Ua2ce2U1_0I/AAAAAAAAF5k/wKKbpCavR_s/s320/IMAGE_2D691283-62BE-4F72-9412-55857BF8C721.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The blue and white colours of the Castres rugby team on the City hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHnaJLwouRc/Ua2cjd42DQI/AAAAAAAAFys/TvsrzbI6UHQ/s1600/IMAGE_AF6E1F0E-680A-4771-9043-6BF0E73A74BA.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="255" id="blogsy-1370374562454.6208" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHnaJLwouRc/Ua2cjd42DQI/AAAAAAAAFys/TvsrzbI6UHQ/s320/IMAGE_AF6E1F0E-680A-4771-9043-6BF0E73A74BA.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gardens at the Goya museum in Catres</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aB1X-2F82-M/Ua2clw_YKVI/AAAAAAAAF7s/qarKDthRD70/s1600/IMAGE_8FC1B7D9-9ED2-40B8-ABA1-D4E7B4794A7F.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="239" id="blogsy-1370374562424.0747" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aB1X-2F82-M/Ua2clw_YKVI/AAAAAAAAF7s/qarKDthRD70/s320/IMAGE_8FC1B7D9-9ED2-40B8-ABA1-D4E7B4794A7F.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ancient homes along the Agout river in Castres</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBDMru3rDiA/Ua2cnbKppYI/AAAAAAAAF8E/0xIW4tLEW28/s1600/IMAGE_1FBBF8A6-BB5A-4DF0-AF99-138F8AF9236C.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="248" id="blogsy-1370374562519.5889" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBDMru3rDiA/Ua2cnbKppYI/AAAAAAAAF8E/0xIW4tLEW28/s320/IMAGE_1FBBF8A6-BB5A-4DF0-AF99-138F8AF9236C.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The medieval bridge is Brassac</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVzWOv6XJCki7Kh_By_Jh8HdQXaIdOwY-DXtH2UJbpwO5-8mAgDFRSn7XtRgogE_-Is60yUM0yGhK_SdzgP5lQa9DeotveHQzQqRJXoj1wHNDSIdnuxjshzzeYN_86w0V6znH0Mb0tBgUs/s1600/IMAGE_283C1B27-FA80-4665-BB09-7B9D775A84CE.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="343" id="blogsy-1370374562498.0308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVzWOv6XJCki7Kh_By_Jh8HdQXaIdOwY-DXtH2UJbpwO5-8mAgDFRSn7XtRgogE_-Is60yUM0yGhK_SdzgP5lQa9DeotveHQzQqRJXoj1wHNDSIdnuxjshzzeYN_86w0V6znH0Mb0tBgUs/s1600/IMAGE_283C1B27-FA80-4665-BB09-7B9D775A84CE.JPG" width="376" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brassac</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LXbRPlYdXcA/Ua2cvoA5GMI/AAAAAAAAF8M/zgo24kS_MM8/s1600/IMAGE_30E3F1B9-9AAC-4C51-9960-48C0E87F09B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="251" id="blogsy-1370374562456.8225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LXbRPlYdXcA/Ua2cvoA5GMI/AAAAAAAAF8M/zgo24kS_MM8/s320/IMAGE_30E3F1B9-9AAC-4C51-9960-48C0E87F09B3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in Brassac</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx0p3_SiMKY/Ua2dNIpH0gI/AAAAAAAAFz0/5_v4_J6KR_M/s1600/IMAGE_994AC10C-63F2-4FF1-AB35-BE36A14F7211.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="481" id="blogsy-1370374562439.0967" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx0p3_SiMKY/Ua2dNIpH0gI/AAAAAAAAFz0/5_v4_J6KR_M/s1600/IMAGE_994AC10C-63F2-4FF1-AB35-BE36A14F7211.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ancient cross at the start of our first hike</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiBmnhp9H_AyqznqRGGNhbxlZ6gAPOIF9pRKV7RzltHxmZCN0yDOe-5TKAt7YQT8PmJkLuW61hf-ZEfGNG4yHF9GmD5_pDcAckA9NaYCYQyMFpf-4zhIJz5frkOJwOkrp-V16uNiLxYspx/s1600/IMAGE_DAC5518B-7843-4EC4-AA8B-E755063C25FA.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="231" id="blogsy-1370374562434.4482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiBmnhp9H_AyqznqRGGNhbxlZ6gAPOIF9pRKV7RzltHxmZCN0yDOe-5TKAt7YQT8PmJkLuW61hf-ZEfGNG4yHF9GmD5_pDcAckA9NaYCYQyMFpf-4zhIJz5frkOJwOkrp-V16uNiLxYspx/s320/IMAGE_DAC5518B-7843-4EC4-AA8B-E755063C25FA.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The countryside on our first hike</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vAhuLKqIqYI/Ua4O8LEH7dI/AAAAAAAAF0M/QzW_c2U1gIE/s1600/IMAGE_42224C87-4C5D-476D-BD10-619A093EF129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" class="" height="257" id="blogsy-1370374562525.8882" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vAhuLKqIqYI/Ua4O8LEH7dI/AAAAAAAAF0M/QzW_c2U1gIE/s320/IMAGE_42224C87-4C5D-476D-BD10-619A093EF129.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxuGDH8did80lIKoK1lNj3kKrZO4j4Twts8weWgUQeQkDSaWpqFqNyro8E8-EbWE7btXT-ykhLRPOuLrxCWdmaZeQkVqVyNxf1cxMnxwQRAERnl7yV0TXMfNqW-5N8rTPIc69uCSu5L4T/s1600/IMAGE_78C9AAD0-436D-4817-85FC-5BEF58768D6A.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="350" id="blogsy-1370374562503.8376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxuGDH8did80lIKoK1lNj3kKrZO4j4Twts8weWgUQeQkDSaWpqFqNyro8E8-EbWE7btXT-ykhLRPOuLrxCWdmaZeQkVqVyNxf1cxMnxwQRAERnl7yV0TXMfNqW-5N8rTPIc69uCSu5L4T/s1600/IMAGE_78C9AAD0-436D-4817-85FC-5BEF58768D6A.JPG" width="367" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin on our first hike. He looks worried...are we going the right way. Actually trail well marked, the "x's" mean, don't go into the farmers field</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJNsfTKnGNlDC6ClP79J6XkZlq4UnMy1hUBkARPYMfcAm_Rj4lm8sia4ylMqF8LrweQOsrgv1CZTZ1iTe5F6uUWTKTyej9wcy6mFGABDU4Qa0olgyL6bdciK_4kNXyq9CB96fnduMT61_z/s1600/IMAGE_26C7C705-35EF-4A9C-906C-7D83E79B761A.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="391" id="blogsy-1370374562435.8848" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJNsfTKnGNlDC6ClP79J6XkZlq4UnMy1hUBkARPYMfcAm_Rj4lm8sia4ylMqF8LrweQOsrgv1CZTZ1iTe5F6uUWTKTyej9wcy6mFGABDU4Qa0olgyL6bdciK_4kNXyq9CB96fnduMT61_z/s1600/IMAGE_26C7C705-35EF-4A9C-906C-7D83E79B761A.JPG" width="415" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking down onto small town from Hautpaul</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPDA4aHlx-4/Ua4PGzbqruI/AAAAAAAAF9E/Q0bvI8YH_QU/s1600/IMAGE_D6DD9C07-ED0A-4A26-9003-5A167B019DB1.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1370374562443.6978" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPDA4aHlx-4/Ua4PGzbqruI/AAAAAAAAF9E/Q0bvI8YH_QU/s320/IMAGE_D6DD9C07-ED0A-4A26-9003-5A167B019DB1.JPG" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire, after our first hike in Hautpoul</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ5Ld4FTAOo/Ua4PwCNf5II/AAAAAAAAF9c/bYPxKY6IqT0/s1600/IMAGE_BBCAA1E1-3600-457D-9560-1142271086CF.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="443" id="blogsy-1370374562511.3508" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ5Ld4FTAOo/Ua4PwCNf5II/AAAAAAAAF9c/bYPxKY6IqT0/s1600/IMAGE_BBCAA1E1-3600-457D-9560-1142271086CF.JPG" width="332" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The medieval village of Hautpoul, hardly anyone there.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2jBiCCGR8hU/Ua4PzHzafiI/AAAAAAAAF9k/h7GFj0laUKc/s1600/IMAGE_AAD787B9-5EF5-4416-B928-B0D55B1CFE03.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="277" id="blogsy-1370374562476.379" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2jBiCCGR8hU/Ua4PzHzafiI/AAAAAAAAF9k/h7GFj0laUKc/s1600/IMAGE_AAD787B9-5EF5-4416-B928-B0D55B1CFE03.JPG" width="344" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The town of Ausillon, the start of our second hike</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkmWmrrOtaibvyErvF9vM4DlexTdHN6zC2crieKFWVDPGMNpz7jTiwrfQsv-BpWU_Mp_7B02uoXkOhX729e-Rmju-ml_R9fgQ8Nto-v1AkQPs1lplgyXbILxU0vufRkht0Fdkqbeb3-uK/s1600/IMAGE_79B1A0EF-93CA-48BE-9F2B-AF038A1B0A3E.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="470" id="blogsy-1370374562453.9504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkmWmrrOtaibvyErvF9vM4DlexTdHN6zC2crieKFWVDPGMNpz7jTiwrfQsv-BpWU_Mp_7B02uoXkOhX729e-Rmju-ml_R9fgQ8Nto-v1AkQPs1lplgyXbILxU0vufRkht0Fdkqbeb3-uK/s1600/IMAGE_79B1A0EF-93CA-48BE-9F2B-AF038A1B0A3E.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire at the start of our second hike. Walked through a chestnut tree forest.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-pEKHRpfXU/Ua4QF4oo4aI/AAAAAAAAF18/1mromFNwILg/s1600/IMAGE_60B7BF2C-2C7C-4A68-8EB4-CB98F3245478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="394" id="blogsy-1370374562537.6628" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-pEKHRpfXU/Ua4QF4oo4aI/AAAAAAAAF18/1mromFNwILg/s1600/IMAGE_60B7BF2C-2C7C-4A68-8EB4-CB98F3245478.JPG" width="437" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_s5Tb7iAfgMBMtikmaIiFnixKew1mjN8OIYWvgFIS28QozsT5qqWDJFUwlTcii0c4nWcM5lvsS93ALvfEFwT_q-Bmtbs-ucjzHpSsiRQG15fIdcYs6vbtDYLWYQm5pS0P0mhZCjDwxKKs/s1600/IMAGE_A25299BF-1F0F-4280-81A1-74C6F55F291F.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="375" id="blogsy-1370374562489.3936" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_s5Tb7iAfgMBMtikmaIiFnixKew1mjN8OIYWvgFIS28QozsT5qqWDJFUwlTcii0c4nWcM5lvsS93ALvfEFwT_q-Bmtbs-ucjzHpSsiRQG15fIdcYs6vbtDYLWYQm5pS0P0mhZCjDwxKKs/s1600/IMAGE_A25299BF-1F0F-4280-81A1-74C6F55F291F.JPG" width="457" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chestnuts</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tb83fnFS3TU/Ua4Qy3aV6HI/AAAAAAAAF20/j-1EJnTeOyU/s1600/IMAGE_9564C4F5-A115-400B-8FB3-0062D5ACFFCA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="326" id="blogsy-1370374562527.0618" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tb83fnFS3TU/Ua4Qy3aV6HI/AAAAAAAAF20/j-1EJnTeOyU/s1600/IMAGE_9564C4F5-A115-400B-8FB3-0062D5ACFFCA.JPG" width="435" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin on our second hike</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This cross depicts the trail of St.Jean de Compostelle, one of the great pilgrimages</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Cathar castle in Saissac</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hautpoul</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mazamet from a local viewpoint</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fountain in Albi</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sainte Cecile Cathedral in Albi</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire having lunch in Albi on the town square</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Albi</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ancient bridges of Albi</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A weir and lock in Albi on the river Tarn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cloister in Albi</td></tr>
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Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-31713509482246285252013-05-30T10:13:00.001-07:002013-05-30T10:28:18.275-07:00Nice continues<p>Weather has been cooler than normal for this time of year in Nice, but still getting out making sure we have sweaters and our umbrellas, as a few showers in the past week. The papers indicated it had been the coolest spring in 26 years.<br>
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<p>On Friday the 24th, we took in the Nice Tennis Open, which is classified as an ATP 250 event for our tennis family and friends. We watched the two semi finals. Montanes from Spain vs. Roger-Vasselin from France.....Montanes won. The following match was Monfils from France who won against Andujar from Spain. The second match was more exciting than the first. It was a windy day, but didn't seem to bother the players. The finals were on Saturday, Montanes from Spain won in a tie breaker. Might have to look into attending the French open one of these years. </p>
<p>Love some of the expressions of the French. Waiters will often come to your table and say "Je vous entends" which translates to "I am listening", but sounds better in French ! When you thank a waiter or store clerk a lot of times they say "de rien" which means "it was nothing, my pleasure". </p>
<p>In a previous blog, I spoke about the huge numbers of people who still smoke here. The one trend seems to be a rise in the amount of people who smoke electronic cigarettes. Not sure why these have become so popular. One of the articles I read indicted they were once marketed as a smoking cessation tool, however a lot of them now have the same amount of nicotine as a conventional cigarette. They also contain propylene <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: medium;">glycol </span>which creates the smoke....really! They don't even look like cigarettes. <br>
In the news this week in France, is the first gay marriage which is to take place in Montpellier. There were riots in Paris over the weekend, when the new law was passed. I think they have far worse problems in France then to riot over gay marriage!<br>
Haven't talked too much about style in France. As everyone knows, French women have always been looked upon as very stlylish, and for the most part, that is still the truth. There is however one horrible sight these days. Women of all ages are wearing horrible baggy bum pants. If you recall the MC Hammer harem pants, these are somewhat similar. Very baggy in the bum, where the material almost goes down to the knees of the wearer, but with tighter material in the legs. Sorry, these simply do not show off a woman's figure, they look more like a baby wearing a very dirty, saggy diaper. Who comes up with these "fads". You can be well assured that I for one, will not be buying a pair of these! </p>
<p>We certainly get a kick out of the inventive parking in Nice as it is at a premium to find a space on the street. Cars constantly double park, park partly frontward on the sidewalk with the back end protruding on the street, or oftentimes, just cram into a spot between two cars which is usually a little too small and all cars get somewhat dented. They will also park on a corner of a curb, if no other space, then they put on their four way flashers, as if this makes it o.k.! Most cars and trucks/vans, have mirrors missing, huge dents scratches along the sides and some held together by duck tape! Glad we didn't have a car while we here. In reality, with the great bus and train system, we really had no need for one. Also, the walking down to the Old Town most days has been great exercise. </p>
<p>Well yet another great restaurant. On Saturday ate at "Le Comptoir du Marche". Another little jewel of a restaurant that we found via Trip Advisor. A "Lapin terrine -rabbit" shared as an appetizer, Robin had joues de porc (pork cheeks) served on polenta with a sauce and I chose magret de canard (duck breast). Saved room for desert of chocolate mousse (guess who had that!) and millefeuille. The food was well presented, reasonable portions and very tasty. Once again, great conversations with those around us. A norm in these small restaurants as the tables are so close together. An English couple on one side celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and a single American man who was attending the Formula One race in Monaco, which is taking place on Sunday. A delightful evening and a walk home on a moonlit night. <br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lWWIyCoYOIA/UaY0N4ITOTI/AAAAAAAAFro/w_JG0awWIs0/s600/Photo%2525202013-05-22%2525208%25253A20%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lWWIyCoYOIA/UaY0N4ITOTI/AAAAAAAAFro/w_JG0awWIs0/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-22%2525208%25253A20%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369934883460.6296" class="alignleft" alt="" width="221" height="295"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Xavier, our guide in Corsica</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>We received a nice e-mail this week from Xavier, our guide while in Corsica. He thanked us for the review we wrote on Trip Advisor. Guiding is his livelihood and he excels at it and we gave him a glowing review. As we use Trip Advisor quite a bit, we think it is only right that we write reviews whether the ratings that we give are good, mediocre or improvement required. He was outstanding. </p>
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<p>This past Sunday, a beautiful sunny day, so we treated ourselves and spent the afternoon at one of the beachside restaurants that rent out sunbeds and provide food and drink. A lovely leisurely afternoon. Normally, when we have been to the beach, we have our small beach chairs and one mat which has little cushioning when to lying on the rocks. </p>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5RJjqOM_FKwPrc8E0evdC_c5J4w2X1KpwnjA2aJ8iKOcuv4mRE9hzIygvZcHb8fM_c77_lWAAcqMdHXLmQFhR2pPDLxNQrLLGPKDu-tq0GMiXlpFL72BUuX07iTevFXWJfetqycGM1jH/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-26%2525204%25253A16%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5RJjqOM_FKwPrc8E0evdC_c5J4w2X1KpwnjA2aJ8iKOcuv4mRE9hzIygvZcHb8fM_c77_lWAAcqMdHXLmQFhR2pPDLxNQrLLGPKDu-tq0GMiXlpFL72BUuX07iTevFXWJfetqycGM1jH/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-26%2525204%25253A16%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369934883511.9949" class="alignleft" alt="" width="431" height="287"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The seaside at Menton</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Monday, the 27th a day trip, by train, to Menton, the last town before you cross over into Italy. It almost reminded us of a smaller Nice and is known as the "Pearl of France". Not as big and not as touristy; which makes it quite alluring. Someplace we might look at staying in the future. Picturesque harbour and houses set into the hills. Had our first taste of paella here and walked through the old town and down the Oceanside walkway. The town is known for its lemon and orange trees. A shop in town sells everything flavoured with lemons ie: olives, vodka, cookies, cakes, soaps, etc. The town is also famous for its numerous gardens. As usual along the promenade, many restaurants flourish. The only thing which is a little different here is that the majority of the tables are on the oceanside, wherein the kitchens are across a road. Therefore the waiters run back and forth across the road with their trays. Most drivers are very indulgent and let the waiters cross the road! While having lunch in one of the squares of the old town, we were fortunate to have a young man playing a twelve string guitar who was at times accompanied by a young woman doing a local dance. Very lovely and entertaining. Afternoon train back to Nice and Velo blu bikes back to the apartment.</p>
<p><br>
Wednesday, the 29th, we took the bus to Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, 10 kms. from Nice to visit Villa Kereylos which is a stunning reconstruction of a luxurious Greek palace but built in 1902 by Theodore Reinach during the Belle Époque. The home is completely furnished and decorated in the Greek style. The mosaic tile work on the floors and walls is simply stunning. <span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Can't imagine the time it must have taken to tile this home. </span>Columns made of Carrera marble thoughout the home. The shower was particularly interesting as it had several sets of vertical jets, not unlike a high end shower of today, well ahead of its' time. This was the dream home of the amateur archeologist, who came from a wealthy family and had helped the Greeks with the excavations in Delphi, Greece. It has stunning views of the Meditterenean. </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w2iYKFx7L5c/UaZEtNkwYrI/AAAAAAAAFsc/jh0h6_ygurE/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-28%2525204%25253A46%252520PM.jpg" style=" " target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w2iYKFx7L5c/UaZEtNkwYrI/AAAAAAAAFsc/jh0h6_ygurE/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-28%2525204%25253A46%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369934883427.7568" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="388" height="518"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Villa Kereylos</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://https//lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3eCL26euFaQ/UaY0f-ifrVI/AAAAAAAAFsI/EBJe-pC77Jo/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-28%2525205%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3eCL26euFaQ/UaY0f-ifrVI/AAAAAAAAFsI/EBJe-pC77Jo/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-28%2525205%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369934883480.2349" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="383" height="287"></a></div>
<p><br>
Then we walked along the Promenade Maurice Rouvier, into St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and went to visit Villa and Gardens of Ephrussi de Rothschild. The villa and gardens sit on 17 acres of prime land on the Cap and once again, spectacular views. It took five years to build the villa, which is in a neo-Venetian style and was completed in 1905. The home is furnished and has art work and tapestries and china collections displayed. The garden has seven theme gardens and we were fortunate enough to see the water show in the various water fountains in the garden, which was set to music. Both the Kereylos and Rothschild villas are now owned and operated by the Academie de Beaux-Arts Institute of France. So glad we took the time to see both these wondrous villas, while wondering what the poor people are doing.....oh right, we are here paying to see the villas! </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_z1pdHnnrdA/UaY0kQ5LTII/AAAAAAAAFsQ/o-PDXA7uKts/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-28%2525207%25253A20%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_z1pdHnnrdA/UaY0kQ5LTII/AAAAAAAAFsQ/o-PDXA7uKts/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-28%2525207%25253A20%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369934883459.8994" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the several gardens at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">Our last week in Nice and we found that we ran out of time for some of the areas, towns and museums that we wanted to visit. Where has the time gone?</span></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Thursday was our last day in Nice, picked up a rental car and drove to Juan des Pins for lunch. Back to apartment to pack and leaving Friday morning the 31st for Mazamet, which s about a 5 1/2 hour drive. </span><br>
</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwnhiVw9jrk/UaeDdo8gfvI/AAAAAAAAFs4/s7S25xZ_N-8/s1600/IMAGE_A4B3043F-E9A9-4154-9803-1C1DC87369D4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwnhiVw9jrk/UaeDdo8gfvI/AAAAAAAAFs4/s7S25xZ_N-8/s1600/IMAGE_A4B3043F-E9A9-4154-9803-1C1DC87369D4.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883471.3716" class="" alt="" width="345" height="460"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Menton</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZ7zXFUqNaw/UaeDf38Jr-I/AAAAAAAAFtA/5BPOwiz7uio/s1600/IMAGE_7F93DB4B-586F-482F-8A57-2699B73C6488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZ7zXFUqNaw/UaeDf38Jr-I/AAAAAAAAFtA/5BPOwiz7uio/s1600/IMAGE_7F93DB4B-586F-482F-8A57-2699B73C6488.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883488.0754" class="" alt="" width="357" height="368"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire having lunch in Menton</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5SNCNpwi1yI/UaeDhk4NKeI/AAAAAAAAFtI/iVOO3BxZf9Y/s1600/IMAGE_15E6C4D2-FB3D-4A88-A2FD-ABC77FCF2D80.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5SNCNpwi1yI/UaeDhk4NKeI/AAAAAAAAFtI/iVOO3BxZf9Y/s1600/IMAGE_15E6C4D2-FB3D-4A88-A2FD-ABC77FCF2D80.JPGi" id="blogsy-1369934883516.624" class="" alt="" width="396" height="379"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guitarist in Menton</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtcvN3Eqe0wrslSift7-xDllXES5_qji_O-IJLcZxvYPgKE8bHqtLLQ8cQ1ypr36KA66uWsSJIZ2rK31Mv8QM5Wf2qlxz-I1otEHaU49sw7SUm4IS2yXkykYEerSw1itmlA9zL_rFj3hsD/s1600/IMAGE_ADBDE825-2A5D-40BB-B39D-FA2EC907AB90.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtcvN3Eqe0wrslSift7-xDllXES5_qji_O-IJLcZxvYPgKE8bHqtLLQ8cQ1ypr36KA66uWsSJIZ2rK31Mv8QM5Wf2qlxz-I1otEHaU49sw7SUm4IS2yXkykYEerSw1itmlA9zL_rFj3hsD/s320/IMAGE_ADBDE825-2A5D-40BB-B39D-FA2EC907AB90.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883440.4263" class="" alt="" width="315" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in Menton</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RbWwzGe__pw/UaeGGX0WG2I/AAAAAAAAFtc/GjV8nkvWkQY/s1600/IMAGE_B1DFB3A2-2DD9-4E47-A87E-E7B94A4C80F4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RbWwzGe__pw/UaeGGX0WG2I/AAAAAAAAFtc/GjV8nkvWkQY/s1600/IMAGE_B1DFB3A2-2DD9-4E47-A87E-E7B94A4C80F4.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883429.051" class="" alt="" width="432" height="489"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cathedral in Menton</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5GPt8qFn6c/UaeGIaWsx4I/AAAAAAAAFtk/7hNeHU6duyk/s1600/IMAGE_152D48EA-6B10-438D-BEF4-222A6F8C75EF.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5GPt8qFn6c/UaeGIaWsx4I/AAAAAAAAFtk/7hNeHU6duyk/s320/IMAGE_152D48EA-6B10-438D-BEF4-222A6F8C75EF.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883468.7554" class="" alt="" width="217" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Villa Kereylos</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TwkJ75bpb6U/UaeGUCV9RXI/AAAAAAAAFts/iSUy1A6tGJw/s1600/IMAGE_9C163047-2A20-485E-8B77-58630225E3E4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TwkJ75bpb6U/UaeGUCV9RXI/AAAAAAAAFts/iSUy1A6tGJw/s1600/IMAGE_9C163047-2A20-485E-8B77-58630225E3E4.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883446.6401" class="" alt="" width="424" height="318"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful tile work in Villa Kereylos</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUNArFo8WxEJ_IdVcmQD9KN4Pien4WgXukfvEjzIBoVjcflCac63rzs6nkF3VQQDN2b1dq0uzIjdKfWMjvmfKLBJeJyACsDFiHuCjKKbVLNaH9KldyZILE0jAmnHVQdIs4ar50Pm5fDGV/s1600/IMAGE_0986A54B-3B6B-4DF1-A86A-B7C4CCBEA771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUNArFo8WxEJ_IdVcmQD9KN4Pien4WgXukfvEjzIBoVjcflCac63rzs6nkF3VQQDN2b1dq0uzIjdKfWMjvmfKLBJeJyACsDFiHuCjKKbVLNaH9KldyZILE0jAmnHVQdIs4ar50Pm5fDGV/s1600/IMAGE_0986A54B-3B6B-4DF1-A86A-B7C4CCBEA771.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883489.6174" class="" alt="" width="344" height="525"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art work in the gardens f Villa Kereylos</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6wB7yxtKE6M1dlvjDg7_Ge5tzVzHUg3Ry7YfuImov_oBUfHxR9_dyUqjBf_gg5_kxe6CMs_3N0In6RVvBKd0cnwgT7hgCymRlgV5dwMUMDzJqOAqvpRy7RgEH4SPd5nYhbU55LUBBUCv/s1600/IMAGE_49FBE661-F000-4138-830C-FA882B01CE2C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6wB7yxtKE6M1dlvjDg7_Ge5tzVzHUg3Ry7YfuImov_oBUfHxR9_dyUqjBf_gg5_kxe6CMs_3N0In6RVvBKd0cnwgT7hgCymRlgV5dwMUMDzJqOAqvpRy7RgEH4SPd5nYhbU55LUBBUCv/s1600/IMAGE_49FBE661-F000-4138-830C-FA882B01CE2C.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883433.0923" class="" alt="" width="523" height="392"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inside of the Villa Ephrussi</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JCQMlHydGN0/UaeGyLrFk8I/AAAAAAAAFuU/M32elqM8mOE/s1600/IMAGE_93828945-5CC6-485A-A859-9EE062D27ECA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JCQMlHydGN0/UaeGyLrFk8I/AAAAAAAAFuU/M32elqM8mOE/s1600/IMAGE_93828945-5CC6-485A-A859-9EE062D27ECA.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883465.987" class="" alt="" width="523" height="392"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from the Rothschild villa</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-huf7L3ULlIw/UaeG0ejQayI/AAAAAAAAFuc/wkBLoweueig/s1600/IMAGE_26C4FE7B-6A7D-46A8-AC5D-B4364CA1DB4C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-huf7L3ULlIw/UaeG0ejQayI/AAAAAAAAFuc/wkBLoweueig/s320/IMAGE_26C4FE7B-6A7D-46A8-AC5D-B4364CA1DB4C.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883462.0815" class="" alt="" width="320" height="201"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wclfItwD94/UaeG2t2zxFI/AAAAAAAAFuk/yeAXML-JELw/s1600/IMAGE_8EB50C75-0B65-4BE9-B765-6D0D37A5A5B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wclfItwD94/UaeG2t2zxFI/AAAAAAAAFuk/yeAXML-JELw/s1600/IMAGE_8EB50C75-0B65-4BE9-B765-6D0D37A5A5B2.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883504.795" class="" alt="" width="496" height="426"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful pond at Villa Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FteprogxjF4/UaeG4eBNb1I/AAAAAAAAFus/H-cn_T7CGHE/s1600/IMAGE_A9821570-5162-4317-8AAC-D21E8A4BB099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FteprogxjF4/UaeG4eBNb1I/AAAAAAAAFus/H-cn_T7CGHE/s1600/IMAGE_A9821570-5162-4317-8AAC-D21E8A4BB099.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883462.0544" class="" alt="" width="562" height="462"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond at Villa Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M62I7coiSC8/UaeG6JnUQII/AAAAAAAAFu0/-_8idTJWq3Y/s1600/IMAGE_904DD09E-BF64-4F81-B403-43992D514FB8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M62I7coiSC8/UaeG6JnUQII/AAAAAAAAFu0/-_8idTJWq3Y/s320/IMAGE_904DD09E-BF64-4F81-B403-43992D514FB8.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883507.655" class="" alt="" width="277" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin and Claire at Villa Kereylos</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVGrSaFU35RiIGsHDQjE84y0Xq08tQMwlim9RSceunV0TB0ur_Svs1MC5UZ54bMcJRKQYs49w_ITL4YxHdd3pBzb1p7cVgco2q2LGNFb-xBlRXDYIVKq8RbuUJ7xG1jhv6YTmB-UkWp4R/s1600/IMAGE_617B9899-B5ED-495F-B192-C5B822DDF229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVGrSaFU35RiIGsHDQjE84y0Xq08tQMwlim9RSceunV0TB0ur_Svs1MC5UZ54bMcJRKQYs49w_ITL4YxHdd3pBzb1p7cVgco2q2LGNFb-xBlRXDYIVKq8RbuUJ7xG1jhv6YTmB-UkWp4R/s1600/IMAGE_617B9899-B5ED-495F-B192-C5B822DDF229.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883532.9504" class="" alt="" width="536" height="516"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stonework at Villa Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPDhlzWnFLw/UaeG9bDoRvI/AAAAAAAAFvE/I6CC4vplX6I/s1600/IMAGE_BFC5F724-3CD5-4D13-9011-B22A4EFAF70A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPDhlzWnFLw/UaeG9bDoRvI/AAAAAAAAFvE/I6CC4vplX6I/s1600/IMAGE_BFC5F724-3CD5-4D13-9011-B22A4EFAF70A.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883521.5232" class="" alt="" width="455" height="453"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire in the gardens at Villa Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ssZMHP46Onc/UaeHFB0yAPI/AAAAAAAAFvM/kG7cot5VUzw/s1600/IMAGE_0A904528-A02C-4C17-ADA6-D7703A31027F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ssZMHP46Onc/UaeHFB0yAPI/AAAAAAAAFvM/kG7cot5VUzw/s1600/IMAGE_0A904528-A02C-4C17-ADA6-D7703A31027F.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883470.9841" class="" alt="" width="346" height="462"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese garden at Villa Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFaDzn6Nqcr_as3Pl4yhFy6W4hYnEwGDXvS8B7k59gvo2PM963YecwMSOazJ-Lpcl2aUHkXwU2qER2rcYh2KegI74-Vw5Ymryd64XLOXQ_PaDPdSsyYG5XxSNM6ZE4U3r47mGsDFNbzaVr/s1600/IMAGE_9DA09249-5D1B-4D9C-B04D-BB0FB79820ED.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFaDzn6Nqcr_as3Pl4yhFy6W4hYnEwGDXvS8B7k59gvo2PM963YecwMSOazJ-Lpcl2aUHkXwU2qER2rcYh2KegI74-Vw5Ymryd64XLOXQ_PaDPdSsyYG5XxSNM6ZE4U3r47mGsDFNbzaVr/s320/IMAGE_9DA09249-5D1B-4D9C-B04D-BB0FB79820ED.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883497.1208" class="" alt="" width="320" height="290"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1T1KRPO0wcg/UaeHImodSpI/AAAAAAAAFvc/b4XtRdKKPc0/s1600/IMAGE_3F80EDE6-1E2C-4D97-93F0-D10EA935CC67.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1T1KRPO0wcg/UaeHImodSpI/AAAAAAAAFvc/b4XtRdKKPc0/s1600/IMAGE_3F80EDE6-1E2C-4D97-93F0-D10EA935CC67.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883504.436" class="" alt="" width="313" height="457"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artwork in the gardens at Villa Ephrussi Rothschild</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFsqV1Nk0Go/UaeHMlwAl1I/AAAAAAAAFvs/T7uHjzQ7xj8/s1600/IMAGE_C812EAD4-132B-443F-AF27-C2A060E965B7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFsqV1Nk0Go/UaeHMlwAl1I/AAAAAAAAFvs/T7uHjzQ7xj8/s1600/IMAGE_C812EAD4-132B-443F-AF27-C2A060E965B7.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883448.9355" class="" alt="" width="510" height="439"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin at Villa Rothschild </td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JfjX26OSm3I/UaeHOYTsVsI/AAAAAAAAFv0/4ssmloI9rfs/s1600/IMAGE_858C0BE4-DF08-4B90-85BF-74359DEBCFC9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JfjX26OSm3I/UaeHOYTsVsI/AAAAAAAAFv0/4ssmloI9rfs/s320/IMAGE_858C0BE4-DF08-4B90-85BF-74359DEBCFC9.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883498.1765" class="" alt="" width="320" height="175"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7pd7LJaR6ss/UaeHQHtbarI/AAAAAAAAFv8/tqlG45ws4g4/s1600/IMAGE_569F4F68-1C16-43BE-AE5B-3F997EF9EA70.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7pd7LJaR6ss/UaeHQHtbarI/AAAAAAAAFv8/tqlG45ws4g4/s1600/IMAGE_569F4F68-1C16-43BE-AE5B-3F997EF9EA70.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883477.15" class="" alt="" width="345" height="488"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vila Rothschild gardens</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vMER6Ul12XsBp6oxxZHzw_3kkrei1U-qKB-zDHHMDCHSxu7RZubt8_rzKgZG641k4mbNFzGD4rB1mKVwxnuveG0UYaWKCfLrXdfeE4y0O6h5yF0Qt-kpfwZ1bX1Uq08RSR4jtSW_MqJY/s1600/IMAGE_49B3533A-787B-4153-879E-99173BC6AFFC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vMER6Ul12XsBp6oxxZHzw_3kkrei1U-qKB-zDHHMDCHSxu7RZubt8_rzKgZG641k4mbNFzGD4rB1mKVwxnuveG0UYaWKCfLrXdfeE4y0O6h5yF0Qt-kpfwZ1bX1Uq08RSR4jtSW_MqJY/s1600/IMAGE_49B3533A-787B-4153-879E-99173BC6AFFC.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883466.6348" class="" alt="" width="471" height="510"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing waters</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYXFdyvlom0/UaeIMoYD9uI/AAAAAAAAFwU/OoFK-7Fb_nc/s1600/IMAGE_E155A5FE-57E4-4C3B-8B78-AEEF49F2A959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYXFdyvlom0/UaeIMoYD9uI/AAAAAAAAFwU/OoFK-7Fb_nc/s1600/IMAGE_E155A5FE-57E4-4C3B-8B78-AEEF49F2A959.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883534.6704" class="" alt="" width="442" height="331"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of Villa Kereylos</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t40EIalsXn0/UaeIWG9L_jI/AAAAAAAAFwc/isvuc64mDnE/s1600/IMAGE_674F05ED-9351-40F5-BBC0-3F812C55F939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t40EIalsXn0/UaeIWG9L_jI/AAAAAAAAFwc/isvuc64mDnE/s1600/IMAGE_674F05ED-9351-40F5-BBC0-3F812C55F939.JPG" id="blogsy-1369934883526.657" class="" alt="" width="426" height="319"></a></div>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-64261671379216454282013-05-23T01:31:00.000-07:002013-05-23T01:40:27.241-07:00Corsica<p>We decided that if we were in this part of France, we should really take the opportunity to go to Corsica. The choices were a 5 hour ferry ride from Nice or a 45 minute flight. O.K. a lot more expensive to fly, but gee whiz, I did not want to be talking to the "big white telephone" for 5 hours ! Arrived on Monday morning and landed in Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte....first clue...the airport is called "Napoleon Bonaparte". He left the island at 9 yrs. of age. The northern town of Calvi was the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.</p>
<p><br>
In 1755 the Corsicans achieved independence from Genoa under the guidance of Pasquale Paoli. He used the symbol below to reflect the struggle the the Corsicans have gone through for independence over the centuries. In reality, the symbol has a long explanation and history, but I don't want to bore the readers, notwithstanding this, I love the graphic and it is pictured everywhere. <br>
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAyhLEhY_EtmRyYMwBxAggkip4L1v-Gtb2taLqJErkyohWuVvZ0SDKPztJFDnq0I0ieqFm_T2UYQa5Lihag2RDLJ5Gs2KD8UjMsIgJmKDfIRQ_U2O5TljNanTD7BfMtc-x6bWLBMHPtnv/s94/Photo%2525202013-05-22%2525209%25253A08%252520AM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAyhLEhY_EtmRyYMwBxAggkip4L1v-Gtb2taLqJErkyohWuVvZ0SDKPztJFDnq0I0ieqFm_T2UYQa5Lihag2RDLJ5Gs2KD8UjMsIgJmKDfIRQ_U2O5TljNanTD7BfMtc-x6bWLBMHPtnv/s94/Photo%2525202013-05-22%2525209%25253A08%252520AM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369298400739.7136" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="80" height="94"></a></div>
<p>In 1769 Corsica was conquered by France and incorporated in 1770. The island is 183 kilometres long at longest, 83 kilometres wide at widest, has 1,000 kilometres of coastline, more than 200 beaches, and is very mountainous, with Monte Cinto as the highest peak at 2,706 metres (8,878 ft) and 20 other summits of more than 2,000 metres. Mountains comprise two-thirds of the island, forming a single chain. Forest comprises 20% of the island. Tourism is the major economic driver, so needless to say, it has suffered in the past few years. Population is around 300,000 and we are told that their are about one million Corsicans around the world. Our guide, Xavier told us that most young people have to move to the mainland to get work. </p>
<p>There is still a sector of the Corsicans who continue to wish for independence from France, but they do realize that realistically and economically, that this is not possible. All of the street and road signs are in French first then in Corsican below. You will often see the French name has been spray painted so that only the Corsican name appears. A lot of the names of towns and streets seem to be more Italian than French, which is probably due to the fact that Corsica was once ruled by Genoa. </p>
<p>During WWII, Corsica was occupied firstly by the Italians, then the Germans took over and in 1943, the Americans were able to oust the Germans. The Americans used Corsica as a staging area and they established 17 air fields across the island to help with air strikes on the continent. </p>
<p>On our first day, we rented a car, drove into Ajaccio and oh my gosh it was busy. We think there is a Princess cruise boat following us! There were too many tourists in Ajaccio that were spending the day there. We did outsmart them though, we went to a tiny bar for lunch called " Le Trou dans Le Mur" ...." Hole in the Wall" and we know that the tourists wouldn't come here as it was filled with locals. Had charcuterie which included all local Corsican meats, cheese and of course a glass of wine, all very good. Monday the 20th, is a holiday in France, as well as Canada! When we parked our car on the street, I went to pay at a parking machine, but was told by two separate gentleman, that today was a holiday and I didn't have to pay....lucky.<br>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GRVAGRyYh-4/UZ3N8ot96AI/AAAAAAAAFmk/NcBTWG4KKzs/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-19%2525206%25253A21%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; " target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GRVAGRyYh-4/UZ3N8ot96AI/AAAAAAAAFmk/NcBTWG4KKzs/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-19%2525206%25253A21%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369298400659.9512" class="alignright" alt="" width="500" height="330"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coastline view from our hotel room, Ajaccio in the background</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p>Then decided to drive inland to scope out the island. Our first impressions is that it is much lusher than one would imagine, very mountainous ( which we sort of knew) and very old stone buildings in the countryside. Very, very windy roads....Lisa...do not come here, you would not do well. The beaches we have seen so far are lovely. We decided to spend more of our kids inheritance and are staying at a lovely resort just outside of Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica set on a spectacular beach.<br>
We organized a one day tour of part of the island with a local tour guide. We were joined by a couple from Belgium. The tour guide, Xavier, spoke French most of the day, with some English. Robin was able to grasp most of what he said when speaking in French and I did some translating. I am always amazed by Europeans as they understand the gift of being able to speak more than one language. Our guide spoke French, English and Spanish. The Belge couple spoke Dutch, Flemish, English, French and some German. Very humbling. <br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-a-6MkNYqSV4/UZ3OAAbY7fI/AAAAAAAAFms/XiqkioLIXfc/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525203%25253A47%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-a-6MkNYqSV4/UZ3OAAbY7fI/AAAAAAAAFms/XiqkioLIXfc/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525203%25253A47%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369298400706.0305" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="358"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The small town of Ota</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p><br>
What a great day we had. Xavier was the perfect guide, very knowledgeable, courteous, well known and a sense of humour. He also knew the special places to stop and could find parking wherever we went. We left at 8:30 in the morning and not back till 7:30 in the evening. We got a real sense of the topography of Corsica, it's history and that of it's people. We drove to some of the mountainous areas where there is a total of three ski hills, visited the highest possible point that a vehicle can reach, Col de Vergio, which also divides the north and south of Corsica. Went to the small town of Ota, then down to Porto and took a boat ride which took us to a preserve where we were shown incredible sights in the Reserve Naturelle de Scandola and stopped in the town of Girolata, which one can only reach by foot or boat. This is all part of the reserve and is a Unesco World Heritage Site. The vegetation here is classified as scrubland, the French refer to it as "maquis", a term I had never heard before. We referred to the countryside as "rugged", a term that our guide had never heard, so when we stopped for lunch, he looked it up on his IPhone translator app.....gotta love technology! <br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vYzeQxHloHw/UZ3OChCXTKI/AAAAAAAAFm0/umleiHuMXGc/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525206%25253A15%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vYzeQxHloHw/UZ3OChCXTKI/AAAAAAAAFm0/umleiHuMXGc/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525206%25253A15%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369298400748.608" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="293"></a></div>
<p>When we stopped in the small town of Girolata, we were told by the captain of the boat, that we would be departing in 30 minutes and we weren't to be late. As we disembarked the following sign was displayed....<br>
</p>
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<p><br>
The sign says...." We depart at 4:50 p.m. and for those of you who are late, enjoy the end of your holiday". I love the smile on this guy's face! Remember the only way you can reach this tiny town is by foot....a long way...or by boat.</p>
<p>Then by car again to see Les Calanques de Piana, a Unesco World Heritage site. Giant red <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">granite cliffs and spiky outcrops, carved into bizarre shapes by the forces of wind and water.</span><br>
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<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Then on</span>to the town of Cargese. The history of this town is interesting. There was a Greek population in the north of Corsica and years ago, the Greeks would not support the local Corsicans in an uprising, so they were banished from the north and settled in Cargese. There was only a Catholic church in Cargese and the Greeks wanted to share it which was not to happen. The church was burnt down and today a Greek Orthodox Church stands opposite of a Catholic Church. Over the past 11 summers, art students from Europe have to come to the Greek church and painted religious scenes all over the walls and ceiling. Quite wonderful.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N2LNzxMteHk/UZ3OI3JamVI/AAAAAAAAFnE/6yHhIHWn7m8/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525209%25253A32%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N2LNzxMteHk/UZ3OI3JamVI/AAAAAAAAFnE/6yHhIHWn7m8/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525209%25253A32%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369298400760.6702" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://https//lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xFerVTRVt-8/UZ3OLzfSF_I/AAAAAAAAFnM/H9nkZ8tHarU/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525209%25253A40%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank" title=""><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xFerVTRVt-8/UZ3OLzfSF_I/AAAAAAAAFnM/H9nkZ8tHarU/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-20%2525209%25253A40%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1369298400755.0417" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">The countryside is full of eucalyptus trees which were brought in from Australia. Eucalyptus trees need lots water. Corsica had a problem with too much water, lots of swampy areas, and they felt that the trees would soak up the water and get rid of the mosquitoes. Now there is an over abundance of eucalyptus, albeit no mosquitoes! The other tree you see a lot are chestnut trees (chataigne in french). The local Corsicans use the chestnut fruit in a lot of their cooking. We had a chestnut mousse, which was very good. The rocky outcroppings are either a gray granite or a rose quartz which vary throughout the island. Therefore the houses are either gray or pink. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Of course, olive trees everywhere. A lot of people think that green, brown and black olives come from different trees. I think I was one of those long ago. Anyhow, hope I don't bore anyone, but I will just explain. The olives right now are classified as overripe. They are black and simply falling off the trees. Nets are put below the canopies to catch the olives. In Oct/Nov. time frame, the olives are green. Most of these are used for olive oil, but also a great deal are eaten. Come Jan/Feb. the olives ripen to a brown colour and these are eaten and used for cooking. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">All over you see pigs, cattle and goats simply roaming around the countryside. No penned animals here....just think, in North America, we charge extra for "free range"! </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">The two nights we spent in Corsica, we ate at a restaurant next to the hotel...o.k. couldn't spend all the kid's inheritance, the hotel restaurant simply too expensive. The restaurant 's specialty was moules (mussels) and they had two pages of different mussel recipes and all very good; not that we tried them all. They also served everyone a complimentary "Mirto" liqueur after dinner. This is a specialty of Corsica and Sardenia. The myrtle berry is very similar to our blueberry and many families make homemade Mirto. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">We always laugh at the fact that you see lots of restaurants that begin with "Chez".... our guide said he did most of the cooking at home, so he called himself, Chez Xavier. Remember the old car game where your parents tried to keep you occupied on long trips, ie: spot how many white cars, spot how many cows. etc. etc. In France you could say...spot how many restaurants start with "Chez" ! That would definitely keep one busy. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">I know I keep talking about food, but after all, we are in France. Another dish they serve often is vegetable beignets, vegetables deep fried in batter, similar to a corn fritter. The most popular at this time is beignets de courgettes....deep fried zucchini, as they are in season...very good to eat, but probably not for the cholesterol check! </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br>
</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Corsica is welcoming three stages of the "Tour de France" this year and you can see the signs everywhere. The locals are very excited about this as they hope this will heighten the awareness of Corsica and hopefully encourage more people to visit. Our tour guide told us, he had never seen so many cyclists here, and yes, they are everywhere, you need to be careful driving. The roads are so windy here and no shoulders. We have not seen a straight stretch of road anywhere. </span></p>
<p>On our last morning in Corsica, we drove towards the south of the Island along the coastal road. Stopped in the small port town of Porto Polo, then returned to Ajaccio to catch our flight home. Although distances not that great, it takes time due to the windy roads. <br>
Corsica was definitely a wonderful experience, and one we are so glad we took; we would encourage anyone who is in southern France or Italy to visit Corsica. A rugged, mountainous country with beaches! <br>
In closing this post, I will share our guide's final words to us......" Be very careful, be very careful. If you spend too much time in France, you won't want to leave"!</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fsc2J6BWORw/UZ3PkgGaDVI/AAAAAAAAFno/_lhvBuwItcs/s1600/IMAGE_06DFA626-600C-4266-AACD-0564CD2A17A6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fsc2J6BWORw/UZ3PkgGaDVI/AAAAAAAAFno/_lhvBuwItcs/s320/IMAGE_06DFA626-600C-4266-AACD-0564CD2A17A6.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400744.4614" class="" alt="" width="314" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Market in Ajaccio. Man cutting off pieces of smoked porc</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--X3yGKt4ZHo/UZ3Pm02S71I/AAAAAAAAFnw/ePFephH1lpM/s1600/IMAGE_457B973A-FC21-4420-B69C-3A19D1934580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--X3yGKt4ZHo/UZ3Pm02S71I/AAAAAAAAFnw/ePFephH1lpM/s320/IMAGE_457B973A-FC21-4420-B69C-3A19D1934580.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400703.5315" class="" alt="" width="320" height="191"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bay of Ajaccio</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZ6bbcyuE5jW6LQ4ynnP6B-Kmludp5SYLaF8H18WpcBqikfo3iGjlImewSEo2vx5bu-lzGHStjVxKVjOJw-oV9KV8skH2HqsCMLw4lHrCtVSj413v8cpyapgoBnBiULhAtMq7Qh5o5YnX/s1600/IMAGE_C2981AC0-05D6-4039-8848-15D814004FBD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZ6bbcyuE5jW6LQ4ynnP6B-Kmludp5SYLaF8H18WpcBqikfo3iGjlImewSEo2vx5bu-lzGHStjVxKVjOJw-oV9KV8skH2HqsCMLw4lHrCtVSj413v8cpyapgoBnBiULhAtMq7Qh5o5YnX/s320/IMAGE_C2981AC0-05D6-4039-8848-15D814004FBD.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400689.3286" class="" alt="" width="320" height="291"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The countryside</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsZqT6dyvuo/UZ3P2d429NI/AAAAAAAAFoA/DDN-U8kwtCE/s1600/IMAGE_B8CA9130-BBC1-42AF-8DA2-69E78C193831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsZqT6dyvuo/UZ3P2d429NI/AAAAAAAAFoA/DDN-U8kwtCE/s320/IMAGE_B8CA9130-BBC1-42AF-8DA2-69E78C193831.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400674.84" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qm8ml0hkkk8/UZ3P4uwOzbI/AAAAAAAAFoI/O3TqpQ9Gie4/s1600/IMAGE_11838907-7D1F-4897-9809-28F9AB8F9705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qm8ml0hkkk8/UZ3P4uwOzbI/AAAAAAAAFoI/O3TqpQ9Gie4/s320/IMAGE_11838907-7D1F-4897-9809-28F9AB8F9705.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400734.7717" class="" alt="" width="320" height="176"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You see these small villages throughout the countryside</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd47WaqFGgdh_ddyI12denXq9vFgtZdTqpvWsl256T5sfSYbZXNAo32oIGjgHaUo6qtQHYFyRTSPfnpfYWPfKH8pjT9Pk_MfCuyxe9xYwdd293Vr9VhJGNwpZDcM3KFOdUJk3bgg-QCD-u/s1600/IMAGE_D4F354E0-EF9C-427F-ACD2-F0A8D9388EE5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd47WaqFGgdh_ddyI12denXq9vFgtZdTqpvWsl256T5sfSYbZXNAo32oIGjgHaUo6qtQHYFyRTSPfnpfYWPfKH8pjT9Pk_MfCuyxe9xYwdd293Vr9VhJGNwpZDcM3KFOdUJk3bgg-QCD-u/s320/IMAGE_D4F354E0-EF9C-427F-ACD2-F0A8D9388EE5.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400701.4436" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QE2URTo2us/UZ3QAROqwjI/AAAAAAAAFog/bN2g2coEUQQ/s1600/IMAGE_9BB6ACE0-B8C3-402C-8333-A3F338A60A70.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QE2URTo2us/UZ3QAROqwjI/AAAAAAAAFog/bN2g2coEUQQ/s320/IMAGE_9BB6ACE0-B8C3-402C-8333-A3F338A60A70.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400707.1045" class="" alt="" width="320" height="284"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin relaxing at our hotel</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ewJ_QBn3xCA/UZ3QCN1AZZI/AAAAAAAAFoo/MbWYzGQvf98/s1600/IMAGE_227AD013-D856-4958-984F-D241D32EA83F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ewJ_QBn3xCA/UZ3QCN1AZZI/AAAAAAAAFoo/MbWYzGQvf98/s320/IMAGE_227AD013-D856-4958-984F-D241D32EA83F.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400698.3838" class="" alt="" width="320" height="181"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pool</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vfvT-pmJ6qs/UZ3QD0BT0PI/AAAAAAAAFow/6BiXXGzs5FY/s1600/IMAGE_D71D8422-0724-4D5A-8282-4EF54FFAE0AA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vfvT-pmJ6qs/UZ3QD0BT0PI/AAAAAAAAFow/6BiXXGzs5FY/s320/IMAGE_D71D8422-0724-4D5A-8282-4EF54FFAE0AA.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400674.108" class="" alt="" width="300" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from our balcony</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-01NTbartZU8/UZ3QFe0nn9I/AAAAAAAAFo4/ejuJqYgrshU/s1600/IMAGE_1FE07726-17FE-4173-A095-109B60651E68.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-01NTbartZU8/UZ3QFe0nn9I/AAAAAAAAFo4/ejuJqYgrshU/s320/IMAGE_1FE07726-17FE-4173-A095-109B60651E68.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400755.5132" class="" alt="" width="320" height="251"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijI_7eHoq4jFur9pALXUTGAUnyHAuhNPasshAZwEDaxO1S_UdY7WZkzmEAmRTDU050Y3jhXCVpis2DU1Yward-ONI5Gyu-i3D0wbgTyTCdqYcMMwXS09IxtZaakdCc1_PDJSt6scBRU99j/s1600/IMAGE_C9F16B47-7ECA-4824-BF2D-D0937598F437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijI_7eHoq4jFur9pALXUTGAUnyHAuhNPasshAZwEDaxO1S_UdY7WZkzmEAmRTDU050Y3jhXCVpis2DU1Yward-ONI5Gyu-i3D0wbgTyTCdqYcMMwXS09IxtZaakdCc1_PDJSt6scBRU99j/s320/IMAGE_C9F16B47-7ECA-4824-BF2D-D0937598F437.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400681.069" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow peak in the background</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LXZaSADhPqPgWTNksZyAscaU5TkXJ914doXA5RFIEWhZkX7vQXga2inRb6Hcg-KekyCmXb4ZBS7r3KKGV6l2rTDFn9p_n3aIZy53h8K3PK2hFbvfhZrbnj0oPO-SviZgRl2RH_OTsjAm/s1600/IMAGE_325172D6-093D-4C98-A05B-6ABBD2FFD046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LXZaSADhPqPgWTNksZyAscaU5TkXJ914doXA5RFIEWhZkX7vQXga2inRb6Hcg-KekyCmXb4ZBS7r3KKGV6l2rTDFn9p_n3aIZy53h8K3PK2hFbvfhZrbnj0oPO-SviZgRl2RH_OTsjAm/s320/IMAGE_325172D6-093D-4C98-A05B-6ABBD2FFD046.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400682.9019" class="" alt="" width="320" height="300"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Les "Cochons" -the pigs</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sK-eqw028Ig/UZ3QRUY3kqI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/Z7HgWzfSHGo/s1600/IMAGE_970E1106-560B-4138-9814-243F56E45B27.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sK-eqw028Ig/UZ3QRUY3kqI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/Z7HgWzfSHGo/s320/IMAGE_970E1106-560B-4138-9814-243F56E45B27.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400722.4827" class="" alt="" width="320" height="275"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rugged mountains</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dP0lIqjVot-9TahpOX7sgqa6BXLcGkVJvgZcdDVp7CXajrfOdKT5e4DxXU-Q0AxREPgt4urDGzZ3nWhxH6fIUdpJGEPeGWpJ64h1_E4nUvGi3_qaZtHkv-gto90Hdpo3YIvSj6d3_xm-/s1600/IMAGE_B1877A96-6C8B-4D4F-AB92-B2F62FCBFAA5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dP0lIqjVot-9TahpOX7sgqa6BXLcGkVJvgZcdDVp7CXajrfOdKT5e4DxXU-Q0AxREPgt4urDGzZ3nWhxH6fIUdpJGEPeGWpJ64h1_E4nUvGi3_qaZtHkv-gto90Hdpo3YIvSj6d3_xm-/s320/IMAGE_B1877A96-6C8B-4D4F-AB92-B2F62FCBFAA5.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400710.6006" class="" alt="" width="320" height="265"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful ancient foot bridge used by the sheppards</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lBUSnDd8yQ/UZ3QW26cZQI/AAAAAAAAFpg/iRcgCmUNNAA/s1600/IMAGE_A8CA60EC-70AE-4B37-9D74-A36DF1DEEB47.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lBUSnDd8yQ/UZ3QW26cZQI/AAAAAAAAFpg/iRcgCmUNNAA/s320/IMAGE_A8CA60EC-70AE-4B37-9D74-A36DF1DEEB47.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400765.2185" class="" alt="" width="320" height="220"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful rock formations</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_NmGrPKw_k/UZ3QY3ZyB5I/AAAAAAAAFpo/UpJB9gd0vUM/s1600/IMAGE_CC35DCB5-45A5-4F4C-8447-D8B2A2FD4851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_NmGrPKw_k/UZ3QY3ZyB5I/AAAAAAAAFpo/UpJB9gd0vUM/s320/IMAGE_CC35DCB5-45A5-4F4C-8447-D8B2A2FD4851.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400745.0112" class="" alt="" width="320" height="296"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire prior to our boat ride</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-On6gLI1Q9hg/UZ3QauuopKI/AAAAAAAAFpw/BKG6OPRN4wI/s1600/IMAGE_310CEE24-702F-4E5A-8B76-81661079BC9B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-On6gLI1Q9hg/UZ3QauuopKI/AAAAAAAAFpw/BKG6OPRN4wI/s320/IMAGE_310CEE24-702F-4E5A-8B76-81661079BC9B.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400767.6677" class="" alt="" width="320" height="292"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ancient look out tower</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RTNLvPfbDAk/UZ3Qf6o3l4I/AAAAAAAAFp4/AF2Hz98XWSE/s1600/IMAGE_1F75A03D-423F-47F6-9523-931CB25ED7A1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RTNLvPfbDAk/UZ3Qf6o3l4I/AAAAAAAAFp4/AF2Hz98XWSE/s320/IMAGE_1F75A03D-423F-47F6-9523-931CB25ED7A1.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400693.8008" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see the faces? And perhaps a pig?</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYcEPPyjxXWB0zoYKzy_1qjRMaVSNCpJZfdcTWPAryflnFJWhzi9jPo_yTnxhPcNLdXNhaokahqD0zgNM0eSHZVZ1LkMehNAiZdtS1uxLxp-TaPtMRbe0AUTneNX3sngCPJ3dnJFuIZFVu/s1600/IMAGE_91712311-578B-412C-A9D3-21788193D0FC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYcEPPyjxXWB0zoYKzy_1qjRMaVSNCpJZfdcTWPAryflnFJWhzi9jPo_yTnxhPcNLdXNhaokahqD0zgNM0eSHZVZ1LkMehNAiZdtS1uxLxp-TaPtMRbe0AUTneNX3sngCPJ3dnJFuIZFVu/s320/IMAGE_91712311-578B-412C-A9D3-21788193D0FC.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400701.3179" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEHX10MCWl673dis2l82bMomu73tnVYkdMQ7h4QP302ai2F8mMPd2V0-pHnrs7ylrr6JXwnQpIInA3Pmc3bZCJ0rAyk785rHRK-6a7HUG8rdyjZqz9Tgu6-KZcDO7oVSEQBbNRdJfI0D4/s1600/IMAGE_FBFDD256-3915-4720-BCCB-19C643F068C3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEHX10MCWl673dis2l82bMomu73tnVYkdMQ7h4QP302ai2F8mMPd2V0-pHnrs7ylrr6JXwnQpIInA3Pmc3bZCJ0rAyk785rHRK-6a7HUG8rdyjZqz9Tgu6-KZcDO7oVSEQBbNRdJfI0D4/s320/IMAGE_FBFDD256-3915-4720-BCCB-19C643F068C3.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400730.6992" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Les Calanques, a Unesco World Heritage Site</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOWVS1ii9RT0X658O6ekZqJx_eWtFdGtKLBWhBURaRJwaC7L1hQ3ZQdkPdZI-vMCGH6-BDV6b-vnJAZHROtu-rph0UOSBnEcF0splGgDmClIXFLEtEmlFPMHc6aTsiv7QXO9Xx2qGjlmE/s1600/IMAGE_DF45DB0A-74A5-4F59-806B-CC266AF416D4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOWVS1ii9RT0X658O6ekZqJx_eWtFdGtKLBWhBURaRJwaC7L1hQ3ZQdkPdZI-vMCGH6-BDV6b-vnJAZHROtu-rph0UOSBnEcF0splGgDmClIXFLEtEmlFPMHc6aTsiv7QXO9Xx2qGjlmE/s320/IMAGE_DF45DB0A-74A5-4F59-806B-CC266AF416D4.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400721.201" class="" alt="" width="320" height="256"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire and Robin viewing The Calanques</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erJCM7sqkd4/UZ3RVwP21yI/AAAAAAAAFq4/LEhnX_daarI/s1600/IMAGE_AFA07AC3-2A8B-430C-9926-8221F5F282F9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erJCM7sqkd4/UZ3RVwP21yI/AAAAAAAAFq4/LEhnX_daarI/s320/IMAGE_AFA07AC3-2A8B-430C-9926-8221F5F282F9.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400791.1643" class="" alt="" width="320" height="294"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Lover's Heart</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p3R4xJC7pBg/UZ3RZUAh17I/AAAAAAAAFrI/eE5s-Frtenk/s1600/IMAGE_F578CAE3-655A-45A0-9F85-EA65F667F3FD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p3R4xJC7pBg/UZ3RZUAh17I/AAAAAAAAFrI/eE5s-Frtenk/s320/IMAGE_F578CAE3-655A-45A0-9F85-EA65F667F3FD.JPG" id="blogsy-1369298400754.5063" class="" alt="" width="320" height="255"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The French and below Corsican names of the towns</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-14440262446592052232013-05-19T01:07:00.000-07:002013-05-19T01:28:06.017-07:00Gadgets, Museums and Food<p>Our weather here in Nice has been exceptional since we arrived, low to mid 20's. We were scheduled for some showers on Wednesday the 15th, but none transpired, although very windy. Finally got rain on the 16th, but didn't stop us from getting out, temperature still around 20 C. Rain is expected for the next few days, after all it is spring here. On Saturday, the 18th, steady rain all day. We made a point of getting out for coffee, lunch and a visit to a local museum. Thank goodness for umbrellas and rain jackets! </p>
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<p><br>
"GADGETS"<br>
Just a few notes about some of the "gadgets" we use when travelling. About a year ago, I read about an iPhone/Pad application called OffMaps. Robin and I used it when we were in New York last fall, and we can't say enough about how helpful it is. You down load a map when you are connected to the internet, before heading off somewhere (ie: Alpes/Maritimes for this area of France). I always ensure our IPhone has the phone and roaming turned off, and it has been since leaving Canada. The map application works off the GPS that is built into the phone. So for example, when we went to San Remo, I had looked up the address of the local market and bookmarked it. The application also has a guide which has some museums, banks, restaurants, transportation and several other choices of services, which helps in guiding you along. The built in GPS locates where you are in relation to where you want to go and you walk towards your destination as the GPS guides you along. No need for phone feature or Internet to be on (no roaming).</p>
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<p><br>
Also can't be without our tablets. Robin has his IPad and I have a mini IPad. Some of the programs we use are KOBO and the Public Library Overdrive service, which both allow us to download and read on our tablets.<br>
Also found a BBC IPlayer app, which for $9 a month allows you access to watch English shows (love the dramas and mystery genres). We are both watching a series called "Silks" about lawyers in London. to all my gal pals who watched Adam in MI5, he is in this series and as good looking as EVER! </p>
<p><br>
Robin of course, plays Words with Friends through Facebook. I don't do Facebook, but do publish this blog through Robin's page. </p>
<p><br>
Crib board always accompanies us, and have also packed a card game called Phase 10 to play when we are joined by my Sister in Law, Brenda in mid June in Mazamet, France and when her daughter Molly joins us in Holland in late June. <br>
</p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">MORE FOOD STUFF, etc !</p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">Aioli - a garlic flavoured mayonnaise with a little olive oil made in Provence, served with fish and seafood and often with vegetables. O.K., we have all tried this back home, but the aioli here is to die for.....who comes up with these recipes? Did someone just drop a whole bunch of garlic in some mayo and decide to pawn it off on someone, then realize it really was good! Who cares.....we can tell you it is also very good with "frites", chicken and whatever suits your fancy!</p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">On the subject of food, we shared a "tartine de fois gras" for lunch one day. Oh my gosh, was it ever good. The tartine was a thin bread/ galette, spread with caramelized onions, fig jam, nuts, roquette (similar to arugula) then topped with fois gras. The glass of red wine certainly complemented this dish. Good thing we walk into town! </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">Also love the warm Chèvre Salad. Something I make at home, but they have the knack of making a simple recipe into something with more presentation and varied flavours. </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">The French certainly know how to make pastries. Have had way too many Pain au Chocolat and other assorted pastries with our afternoon tea. Don't think a cholesterol check will be the best thing to do as soon as we we get back to Canada! </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">On most mornings, if we aren't travelling out of Nice, we walk into the old town for tea/coffee. Most small brasserie's offer wifi, but Robin gets a kick how the French refer to wifi.....phonetically ...."wee fee". The French also use a lot of English words....le weekend, parking lot and many others. </p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">Also need to get used to the fact that the French use the 24 hour clock. Therefore 1 p.m.in the afternoon becomes hour 13, so one really has to pay attention when asking for timing of events, buses, etc. Live and learn the customs. At a grocery store the other day, I went up to one of the clerks and asked where the eggs where located. She looked at me and said "Bonjour Madame"..... Well now I know to start with a greeting, then ask my question!</p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">MUSEUMS</p>
<p>Went to the Marc Chagall Museum, which is located in the Cimiez quarter of town. Although a small gallery, had some nice gardens and enjoyed seeing the art, along with the story of Chagall's life. Although may not be our favourite artist, still nice to expand one's horizons. I also learnt something new today.....gouache.......a technique of painting with opaque watercolours, which is prepared with a binding agent, usually Arabic gum. Now wasn't that worth getting up for! </p>
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<p><br>
On a rainy day, we walked to the Musee des Beaux Arts Jules Cheret, which is located in a beautiful 19th century Italinate mansion in the Belle Époque style. It was built for a Russian Princess. Unfortunately the second floor of the museum was closed for repairs, so the art, albeit beautiful, was limited in scope. Having said this, the most wonderful surprise....as we were looking at some of the art pieces in a salon, all of a sudden two beautiful operatic voices started singing, accompanied by a pianist. They were practicing for a concert that is taking place this coming Friday night. The singing didn't last long, but oh my gosh, made the hair rise in the back of your neck. </p>
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<p>Took the bus on Friday to the fortified medieval mountain village of Eze. What a wonderful location up in the hills and the bus ride there gave up spectacular views of the towns along the coast- St.Jean Cap Ferrat, Villefranche and of course Nice. Quite a few tourists here today, as two cruise boats in the area and many tour buses. Remains of a 12th century fortified castle and the village is referred to an eagle's nest as it sits above the whole area. </p>
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<p>Saturday the 18th, our first day of constant rain. Headed out to visit the Palais Massena, a beautiful Belle Époque building. The building itself has been restored to its previous glory and holds the history of the Massena family during the 1800 and 1900's in the area of Nice. One of the early pictures of the Promenade was quite interesting. The storyboard indicated " certain Hivernies (winter People) came back every year. They were referred to "L'Hirondelle d'Hiver" which strict translation means Winter Swalllows. Isn't it funny that my eye should catch this phrase, considering we and many of our Canadian family and friends are Snow Birds! Pictures of the Promenade dated back to its early beginnings in 1860, love these old pictures. This one is for our nephew, Sean. A notice from the town of Nice dating back to 1884, stating that citizens could no longer raise chickens or rabbits within the town boundaries due to health risks. Sean would like nothing better than to raise chickens in his backyard in Calgary!</p>
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<p><br>
Saturday afternoon of the big rain, had to come home and put on dry pants, socks before going out again. Went to the port pub, Ma Nolan's to meet Ken to watch the Heiniken Rugby Cup. The place was packed which was not surprising as the two teams playing were both French. Had to leave before the game ended, as we had dinner reservations. Must say, even I enjoyed the game.<br>
Sorry to keep talking about food, but once again a "spectacular" meal at a very tiny restaurant, Oliviera. What a pleasant evening we had. We had a reservation here for last Saturday, but the owner cancelled due to a family emergency. We decided to rebook and certainly glad we did. The owner Nadin (host/waiter) and his wife Regine (cook) along with just one other assistant, prepare the most wonderful dishes using all local foods. They bought us a glass of wine as they had cancelled the previous week. Nadin thoroughly explained every dish on the menu, which are limited in scope, but all simply amazing. The menu shows from what region each ingredient/dish comes from. Can't help but get your mouth watering as he explains all the dishes. I had "Lapin sur pâtés" and Robin had "Saucisses, Lentilles du Puy". The restaurant also sells different oils and they feature oils throughout the meal and Nadin explains in detail where the various oils come from and what they should be served with, and the undertones of all the flavours. For desert, yes we indulged, we each had tiramisu, which was the only desert being served. When Nadin brought the desert, he poured some oil along the edge of the plate, which had been sprinkled with chocolate powder. I know that sounds different, but once again, the olive oil complemented this dish.<br>
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<p><br>
What also made this night entertaining, was the conversation we had throughout the meal with the people at the tables next to us. A table of four Canadians from Victoria (lots of laughs, they even shared their wine with us) and a young English couple who had flown to Nice for the weekend to celebrate a birthday. All in all a very enjoyable evening, capped off by a walk home....yes, it was still pouring rain! Forecast for the coming week is for further showers, but not pouring rain, we can deal with that! </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5nLbTheLtvU/UZiEU2pcvBI/AAAAAAAAFi8/6NtUSvgo360/s1600/IMAGE_2C909B19-CE07-4E0E-8291-7BDE21D92624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5nLbTheLtvU/UZiEU2pcvBI/AAAAAAAAFi8/6NtUSvgo360/s320/IMAGE_2C909B19-CE07-4E0E-8291-7BDE21D92624.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066099.7393" class="" alt="" width="320" height="315"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Marc Chagall painting</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVSz4QbU6KIXteMMDYeRr2S9yGR809baIfy2uiCVkTvIgkpxy8Rn3FcVZr-kzhOeGJk94vkRHQsH2f_1ZqbIxIrdogK6hc27UWvl_MzGr7JPjOgrqpSCDo4o50XMIbPSE9MUCcG5ZWEFrh/s1600/IMAGE_51B914D0-1C4E-480E-A916-C100B35633CD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVSz4QbU6KIXteMMDYeRr2S9yGR809baIfy2uiCVkTvIgkpxy8Rn3FcVZr-kzhOeGJk94vkRHQsH2f_1ZqbIxIrdogK6hc27UWvl_MzGr7JPjOgrqpSCDo4o50XMIbPSE9MUCcG5ZWEFrh/s320/IMAGE_51B914D0-1C4E-480E-A916-C100B35633CD.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066153.465" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture of the artist Chagall</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj976EZXuNYlzjU5APuw43gOAgQsH3phwetCUqcuh8_NVV5F-gigaLMtiZsHc3BwZwidJVUBm5vdMRx64w30JnU5ZMhNtvBZMP3XB-49w1H1HcVq_y8k_gik_L3VkVMOwbGWG50jZOMApr8/s1600/IMAGE_C9B18698-C01D-4560-AFEE-F903322AB4B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj976EZXuNYlzjU5APuw43gOAgQsH3phwetCUqcuh8_NVV5F-gigaLMtiZsHc3BwZwidJVUBm5vdMRx64w30JnU5ZMhNtvBZMP3XB-49w1H1HcVq_y8k_gik_L3VkVMOwbGWG50jZOMApr8/s1600/IMAGE_C9B18698-C01D-4560-AFEE-F903322AB4B4.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066109.253" class="" alt="" width="564" height="752"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An outdoor mosaic by Marc Chagall</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf-LVd7zARM/UZiFD9APrrI/AAAAAAAAFjc/EpO8ULCLN6Y/s1600/IMAGE_4C680AC8-B5F1-48F6-93FA-1ABCFA138EA0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf-LVd7zARM/UZiFD9APrrI/AAAAAAAAFjc/EpO8ULCLN6Y/s320/IMAGE_4C680AC8-B5F1-48F6-93FA-1ABCFA138EA0.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066196.0754" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Musee Massena</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUh-RzpUVF00SqRdjIdgTS9JMMwCUQQAO8Gu8KTq4TEzo9bOp-6RvlcDfjzoZhOqDNXuVCnciegIoniBPGyi2ov2b860eg4uZgqpzHuy2KaBywiF94c71IlxPybvXsP9BLbiZKoV5KqOdl/s1600/IMAGE_55921337-289D-4BE4-A594-2E00D1619679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUh-RzpUVF00SqRdjIdgTS9JMMwCUQQAO8Gu8KTq4TEzo9bOp-6RvlcDfjzoZhOqDNXuVCnciegIoniBPGyi2ov2b860eg4uZgqpzHuy2KaBywiF94c71IlxPybvXsP9BLbiZKoV5KqOdl/s320/IMAGE_55921337-289D-4BE4-A594-2E00D1619679.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066148.3547" class="" alt="" width="210" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C3U4BN5osWk/UZiFQqqDGzI/AAAAAAAAFjs/iCuZ0a9T1i4/s1600/IMAGE_6921B87C-046D-4F9A-9E44-645180B0AF16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C3U4BN5osWk/UZiFQqqDGzI/AAAAAAAAFjs/iCuZ0a9T1i4/s1600/IMAGE_6921B87C-046D-4F9A-9E44-645180B0AF16.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066140.1475" class="" alt="" width="592" height="444"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The medieval town of Eze</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUSUBwDT8iE98W0IfqtE-6ikelYr9YovBPgE_kod4TnCuaAOG_yS9hxC4JGyAlY7KOoWvopilgqnqXkAKs6RJZcW_ekEu5AgE8UBm6YoVXfnsb2ibOdASSKvmvV2VXIqqlPCK6_pUZpup/s1600/IMAGE_9F5B7C27-6FA4-4B11-ABC3-52ECC6421ED4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUSUBwDT8iE98W0IfqtE-6ikelYr9YovBPgE_kod4TnCuaAOG_yS9hxC4JGyAlY7KOoWvopilgqnqXkAKs6RJZcW_ekEu5AgE8UBm6YoVXfnsb2ibOdASSKvmvV2VXIqqlPCK6_pUZpup/s1600/IMAGE_9F5B7C27-6FA4-4B11-ABC3-52ECC6421ED4.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066129.6306" class="" alt="" width="668" height="390"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3C9cm5sc-Y/UZiFVkNSnVI/AAAAAAAAFj8/Gs4wsRND6wg/s1600/IMAGE_0670C062-B78F-46FA-BF25-5885B07CEA89.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g3C9cm5sc-Y/UZiFVkNSnVI/AAAAAAAAFj8/Gs4wsRND6wg/s1600/IMAGE_0670C062-B78F-46FA-BF25-5885B07CEA89.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066198.445" class="" alt="" width="498" height="475"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in one of the tiny lanes in Eze</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yq1YBNB_oZU/UZiFiqckNnI/AAAAAAAAFkE/Ph8O1BGzXKI/s1600/IMAGE_230C5CDE-8964-475F-A139-DD917BAF1C44.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yq1YBNB_oZU/UZiFiqckNnI/AAAAAAAAFkE/Ph8O1BGzXKI/s1600/IMAGE_230C5CDE-8964-475F-A139-DD917BAF1C44.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066176.9497" class="" alt="" width="577" height="769"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cnGD9JYCELo/UZiFzIk_M1I/AAAAAAAAFkM/02e9JgLpBho/s1600/IMAGE_475A9DAD-7333-4FCB-A156-7BF6FAA7AE0F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cnGD9JYCELo/UZiFzIk_M1I/AAAAAAAAFkM/02e9JgLpBho/s1600/IMAGE_475A9DAD-7333-4FCB-A156-7BF6FAA7AE0F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066198.3484" class="" alt="" width="540" height="720"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intriguing spot to rest in Eze</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TBlgNQLKj24/UZiGA1WQfpI/AAAAAAAAFkU/_zHmiH2okYs/s1600/IMAGE_8392707E-81E7-4405-9F87-8DF124B6EFEE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TBlgNQLKj24/UZiGA1WQfpI/AAAAAAAAFkU/_zHmiH2okYs/s1600/IMAGE_8392707E-81E7-4405-9F87-8DF124B6EFEE.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066197.2864" class="" alt="" width="460" height="613"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at the site dot in the pictures for 30 seconds, then close you're eyes and see what there is to see</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-39raGMfu0As/UZiGRM4X0aI/AAAAAAAAFkc/5cEixpNICMI/s1600/IMAGE_CFD2D729-6D96-40F8-B45C-F40D3F2E3B4A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-39raGMfu0As/UZiGRM4X0aI/AAAAAAAAFkc/5cEixpNICMI/s1600/IMAGE_CFD2D729-6D96-40F8-B45C-F40D3F2E3B4A.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066144.644" class="" alt="" width="576" height="432"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eze, the winding lanes</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbnE_Um93dU/UZiGWBzvx6I/AAAAAAAAFks/rRnoZQT_Lmg/s1600/IMAGE_02A5CB8C-60B9-4555-8697-576EB1AFC82B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbnE_Um93dU/UZiGWBzvx6I/AAAAAAAAFks/rRnoZQT_Lmg/s1600/IMAGE_02A5CB8C-60B9-4555-8697-576EB1AFC82B.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066176.9685" class="" alt="" width="517" height="482"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the sea from a lane in Eze</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4F6jK0dIwEA/UZiGjuPXCuI/AAAAAAAAFk0/G8XMNoxAZGY/s1600/IMAGE_A3B5C08E-567D-42D7-A0DF-C57DC66E272A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4F6jK0dIwEA/UZiGjuPXCuI/AAAAAAAAFk0/G8XMNoxAZGY/s1600/IMAGE_A3B5C08E-567D-42D7-A0DF-C57DC66E272A.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066183.7205" class="" alt="" width="693" height="519"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The uppermost point in Eze</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDNGHlXj7QQ/UZiGmZZSQYI/AAAAAAAAFk8/f5UZvN7bvf8/s1600/IMAGE_E1C9F9FA-2E41-46E2-892D-22AFE62B0626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BDNGHlXj7QQ/UZiGmZZSQYI/AAAAAAAAFk8/f5UZvN7bvf8/s1600/IMAGE_E1C9F9FA-2E41-46E2-892D-22AFE62B0626.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066121.975" class="" alt="" width="709" height="668"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the coastline from Eze</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgjAV-a8E9Q/UZiGoSUPH3I/AAAAAAAAFlE/krCU2ml3ZBk/s1600/IMAGE_0D97C44A-C54D-4CA3-9BA0-61593CA6B1BC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jgjAV-a8E9Q/UZiGoSUPH3I/AAAAAAAAFlE/krCU2ml3ZBk/s320/IMAGE_0D97C44A-C54D-4CA3-9BA0-61593CA6B1BC.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066141.444" class="" alt="" width="320" height="278"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLlX6MFRbNQ/UZiGslaVChI/AAAAAAAAFlU/Hoi7mUZk9pg/s1600/IMAGE_D1A6D20D-8F09-47E8-B741-DB1DD0B59E7F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLlX6MFRbNQ/UZiGslaVChI/AAAAAAAAFlU/Hoi7mUZk9pg/s320/IMAGE_D1A6D20D-8F09-47E8-B741-DB1DD0B59E7F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066120.3801" class="" alt="" width="210" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1MPxTbiE03A/UZiGvx8ABHI/AAAAAAAAFlc/m2Ltc3eVmSs/s1600/IMAGE_371AEF02-4571-4372-BCB2-36AC516EC071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1MPxTbiE03A/UZiGvx8ABHI/AAAAAAAAFlc/m2Ltc3eVmSs/s1600/IMAGE_371AEF02-4571-4372-BCB2-36AC516EC071.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066207.9575" class="" alt="" width="523" height="700"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful old poster at Musee Massena</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRXY2d6uQ7JjO3qjH_sVrz5jv_htD7SrGVbBJMK9X1SQK_ewgDYkxy78nqkLOl2Pv9vMTZso-XXCHS165yISAd9801QMJr7demAwo68ULkLNCQXfHFXDHFBY7iD93JKBndBEduLj5GIAX/s1600/IMAGE_4C11AE0E-DD5C-4428-A658-736E889EE7D8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRXY2d6uQ7JjO3qjH_sVrz5jv_htD7SrGVbBJMK9X1SQK_ewgDYkxy78nqkLOl2Pv9vMTZso-XXCHS165yISAd9801QMJr7demAwo68ULkLNCQXfHFXDHFBY7iD93JKBndBEduLj5GIAX/s1600/IMAGE_4C11AE0E-DD5C-4428-A658-736E889EE7D8.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066126.7793" class="" alt="" width="1033" height="399"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another poster of Nice during La Belle Époque</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQI3APSMqdStaqcqN3X9iUM3UhpPNO6-bd6OgOOshLHMfF1lq5T_-8kexUDIcMxCI6x_KhFHo97fbBWvwOF82RNT5YrarSAQDWzYu1VxE1K-NZJAWz_9tCo2s9tsSpR_AakTfsGRsdWT_j/s1600/IMAGE_3947D160-17F5-4405-9711-F4560DC84D01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQI3APSMqdStaqcqN3X9iUM3UhpPNO6-bd6OgOOshLHMfF1lq5T_-8kexUDIcMxCI6x_KhFHo97fbBWvwOF82RNT5YrarSAQDWzYu1VxE1K-NZJAWz_9tCo2s9tsSpR_AakTfsGRsdWT_j/s1600/IMAGE_3947D160-17F5-4405-9711-F4560DC84D01.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066202.9238" class="" alt="" width="542" height="727"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rainy night in a quiet lane in the old quarter of Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B3enL24KERw/UZiG3RHPLAI/AAAAAAAAFl0/GlgoB0Zmq4E/s1600/IMAGE_2D7FEFCF-C70E-4C49-8841-E079D9AC56C7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B3enL24KERw/UZiG3RHPLAI/AAAAAAAAFl0/GlgoB0Zmq4E/s320/IMAGE_2D7FEFCF-C70E-4C49-8841-E079D9AC56C7.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066155.8271" class="" alt="" width="239" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coloured statues in Place Massena</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4epICC8sgfI/UZiG5zYUIRI/AAAAAAAAFl8/0NDsMXtirbU/s1600/IMAGE_ABD86B67-17E7-4F28-8326-64BAD4BEB6E4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4epICC8sgfI/UZiG5zYUIRI/AAAAAAAAFl8/0NDsMXtirbU/s1600/IMAGE_ABD86B67-17E7-4F28-8326-64BAD4BEB6E4.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066185.9329" class="" alt="" width="527" height="738"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on our walk home on Saturday, rainy night</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3RWc1kivYc/UZiG-h9bRYI/AAAAAAAAFmE/gIiR21GPsVs/s1600/IMAGE_EBBB1419-AB56-49BC-9C22-0314F33B381E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3RWc1kivYc/UZiG-h9bRYI/AAAAAAAAFmE/gIiR21GPsVs/s1600/IMAGE_EBBB1419-AB56-49BC-9C22-0314F33B381E.JPG" id="blogsy-1368952066218.183" class="" alt="" width="570" height="763"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quiet street of Nice on a rainy night</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-69173328409719552192013-05-15T01:11:00.000-07:002013-05-15T01:25:13.464-07:00People, culture and Italy!We seem to keep running into older women at bus stops who start chatting us up, all very delightful. We have been cooking in most nights, but Saturday, we normally treat ourselves and go out for dinner. This past Saturday, as we got to the bus stop, an older woman was waiting there and we both said "bonsoir" to her. She then asked us which bus we were waiting for, and the conversation ( in french of course) started. She wanted to know how long we were in Nice, where we had been and where we were from. When we told her that we had visited St-Paul-de-Vence, she said......" Non, non...sait appeler seulement St-Paul" ( No, it is called St-Paul). She took offence that it was now referred to "de Vence" simply because it was a few kilometres from Vence. She felt that it was an insult. She had gone to school in St-Paul and said it was very wrong that the medieval town be part of another town. As the bus arrived, the conversation continued. She was on her way to the Opera house for a concert and told us she we would get off the bus at her stop, but in all honesty, we wanted to get off at the next stop! We simply couldn't insult her, and got off with her, and simply walked a bit further to the restaurant. On the way to the old town, she pointed out museums we should visit, famous monuments and the history of Nice. She even told us about local events taking place that we should attend. Who needs a tourist bureau, way better to hear it from locals! She then pointed out the large rusted iron pillar sculpture that must rise some 50 feet above the street near Promenade des Anglais. It was built for one of the city's anniversaries and she said she simply hated it, it was ugly and had no place there. She was certainly opiniated, but what a wonderful encounter! <br />
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Every weekend seems to be an event along the Promenade. Last weekend was a 24 hour foot race to raise money for the physically handicapped, and this past weekend, a display of older rally cars that had travelled from Holland. <br />
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We also went to the Le Marche de la Liberation, which is the largest food market in Nice and where the locals shop. It is further into the newer part of the city. Must have been over 200 vendors, all selling locally grown fruit and vegetables. Also fish, hardware, household goods and furniture sections in this market. Nice to get out of the touristy areas. <br />
The lady on the bus told us about La Fete de Mai (spring festival) that was taking place every Sunday in May in the Cimiez quarter so we decided to go. The festival featured Nicios foods and traditional dancers, very interesting to see. Also had the opportunity to try pastis, an anise based liqueur (45% alcohol), which is diluted with water on a 1 to 5 ratio. Wouldn't run out and buy a bottle, but glad we tried it. Kept meaning to try it on previous trips to France, but didn't seem to manage. <br />
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Then visited the Matisse Museum, but unfortunately could only take pictures of the outside. Then back to "La Vielle Ville" for lunch, some wandering around, then off to the pub for a few drinks where we met Ken and watched part of a Formula One race. Velo Bleu back to the apartment; had to be very careful as so many people on the Promenade, the most we have seen. Great weather this past week, mainly sunny skies and nice breezes, so it doesn't get too hot.<br />
While stopping for lunch the other day, someone had left the Nice Matin and Sunday magazine on one of the nearby tables so browsed through them. Carla Bruni (former First Lady of France) was on the cover, as she just released another album. Was wondering how long she would stay attached to Sarcozy now that he is "infamous" (under investigation for taking advantage of one of France's wealthiest older woman) and no longer famous! Does this make him any better than Berlosconi from Italy taking advantages of young women vs. old? What does Carla think?<br />
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Took the local bus to Villefranche sur Mer, a fishing port which is only 10 kms. from Nice. Had a lovely afternoon, walking through the old town and had lovely lunch (fresh fish) along the sea side. I finally tried grilled sardines, and they were very good; they are known for their sardines in the south of France. The one thing that was noticeable in this town, unlike the others we have visited, is that the houses in the old town were more colourfully painted. Some alleyways, said to be 13th century, are named "rue obscure" (dark street), which relates to the fact that you cannot see the end of the laneway as it winds down to the port; first time we have encountered this. The alleys were covered by vaulted arcades that are to this day inhabited. Another aspect of buildings in this part of France is that a lot of the side walls of the buildings are faux painted with pictures of windows, shutters and vines. Adds character to an otherwise blank wall. The waiter at the seaside restaurant was a very charming young 20 year old. When he brought my cappuccino, he showed me the heart he had made in the coffee foam. I said " Monsieur, je suis mariee"(I am married), to which he replied, " perhaps Monsieur would also like to be involved" ! Love the humour of the waiters. When you make the effort to engage them in a conversation, they definitely respond with humour. The waiter threw some left over bread in the ocean and the fish came up to nibble at it, and We were able to get a picture. <br />
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While having lunch, a 50ish old Senegalese black man came along the tables selling purses, belts, lighters, sunglasses, etc. Now, he had a sense of humour. Told me that I was quite tanned, but I had aways to go to catch up with him, and he started laughing. Sounds like a brother of mine who laughs at his own jokes! He had a little drum with two castanets attached to it, that he would flick to get people's attention.....he said it was his IPhone 5! A real salesman....he saw some French people behind us smoking, so he showed them how powerful his lighters were. Ripped some paper with his teeth (hands full of purses, etc) , then proceeded to light the paper on fire. Tells them the lighter will work in the strongest of winds! Not sure if they bought one. <br />
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On Tuesday, the 14th, we headed off early to go to San Remo, Italy to attend their local market. San Remo is 54 kms. From Nice. T<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">ook the train to Ventimiglia, Italy, which took about 45 minutes, then transferred to another train to San Remo, which took about 20 minutes. Had about an hour wait in Ventimiglia, so had a coffe/tea standing up at a coffe bar (now we know we are in Italy) and walked into the town to have a look around. Could see the Alps in the distance. The market in San Remo is </span>the type of market where locals do their shopping for clothes, footwear, household goods, etc. quite a few tourists here as well. Lisa, our Daughter in Law, would have loved all the colourful purses. In addition to the stands at the market, lots of Senegalese walking around selling belts, sunglasses, purses, umbrellas.....oh, and yes, needle threaders! O.K. what's with that, doesn't strike me as a big seller, but they were everywhere. I sew and even I didn't buy one! Had great pasta for lunch. Had to have as we were in Italy. Another great day, and back home by 4 p.m.<br />
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News this morning that France is officially in a soft recession with President Francois Hollande celebrating his first year in office tomorrow....ouch! Wouldn't want to be in his shoes. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Liberation market in the Cimiez quarter of Nice</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tram which runs through parts of Nice, we have taken this mode of transport as well as buses, trains, etc</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traditionally dressed Nicoise women</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Matisse museum in Nice</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire in Villefranche sur Mer</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cove in Villefranche</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the fountains in the old town of Villefranche</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaRZ1wmnXZStxGqHnfco1AfERiLKAahZ_QTAoLGCq006fpR4wtDlTJ_zMxn25TgT8npuJ7w6EtdbpP63mITsZ6w20ab_JwncxqD2yTEFiEFqlHh0Z48dBb-sFv588qlS8lbLdT0oIRuQk/s1600/IMAGE_6DF3A6F4-508A-4A2A-870F-EE217EEDEE65.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1368606254569.5266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaRZ1wmnXZStxGqHnfco1AfERiLKAahZ_QTAoLGCq006fpR4wtDlTJ_zMxn25TgT8npuJ7w6EtdbpP63mITsZ6w20ab_JwncxqD2yTEFiEFqlHh0Z48dBb-sFv588qlS8lbLdT0oIRuQk/s320/IMAGE_6DF3A6F4-508A-4A2A-870F-EE217EEDEE65.JPG" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rue obscure in Villefranche</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkK-Wh0JQP1EibY0wWozHM-fv2hrVkTfjhQxb5mnDdB8WN746TzN2RqqrnvM3NjEmeaKiMlVGF2jdNB3tZDMPJZSOYUiXRaQMcWVDtyD8kUeSGHysoOxEcfS3KSsxOtnxP6enKHms7eSV/s1600/IMAGE_1936B708-DD38-4C09-A5BE-3EB2AE71C330.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="240" id="blogsy-1368606254511.9543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkK-Wh0JQP1EibY0wWozHM-fv2hrVkTfjhQxb5mnDdB8WN746TzN2RqqrnvM3NjEmeaKiMlVGF2jdNB3tZDMPJZSOYUiXRaQMcWVDtyD8kUeSGHysoOxEcfS3KSsxOtnxP6enKHms7eSV/s320/IMAGE_1936B708-DD38-4C09-A5BE-3EB2AE71C330.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fish eating bread...after all they are French fish!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rX6PSJGFvog/UZM82mqchAI/AAAAAAAAFfw/4hveXLQYaQ4/s1600/IMAGE_6BB3040F-026B-477D-BE48-D4F52D804D43.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img alt="" class="" height="320" id="blogsy-1368606254527.9028" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rX6PSJGFvog/UZM82mqchAI/AAAAAAAAFfw/4hveXLQYaQ4/s320/IMAGE_6BB3040F-026B-477D-BE48-D4F52D804D43.JPG" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Senagalese salesman</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A funky Westfallia in Villefranche</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The colourful homes in Villefranche</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ventimiglia, Italy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Remo, Italy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Market in San Remo</td></tr>
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Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-10748204023113136712013-05-11T04:53:00.000-07:002013-05-11T05:12:26.954-07:00Castle Hill, Nice and St-Paul-de-Vence<p> </p>
<p>One of the most popular sites in Nice is Castle Hill, which is located just above the Old Town. There was a fortress here at one time, but it was destroyed by Napoleon as he was concerned that it would fall into enemy hands. There are old foundations of a church, but today it has been refurbished into gardens, play areas for children and a rocky cascade with water flowing down the hill. Great panorama of the City of Nice. We also took the time to visit the cemetery. One section of the cemetery is the Jewish area which has a memorial to the Jewish people that were killed in Auschwitz, very moving. As we were starting our walk back down the hill, the noon cannon went off.....sure scared us being so close!</p>
<p>We have been delighted when talking to locals and tourists alike. The majority of people have been so friendly and it is always nice to get their opinion or suggestions on what to visit, where to eat, etc. At the pub one of the British ex-pats told us we must visit the market in Venti Miglia, Italy ( just across the border) which takes place on Fridays. Conversely on the train last week, we met a couple from England who told us not to bother with that market as the goods were very cheaply made. They told us to go to San Remo, which we may decide to do instead. </p>
<p>Standing at the bus stop waiting to go to St-Paul, an older French lady told me she liked my hair and did I have it cut locally? (This is taking place in French, of course; and although Robin can understand somewhat, I stop to translate occasionally). When I said "no", I asked her if she knew of a good hairdresser. She waved her arms up as she told me she had tried hundreds of hairdressers here in Nice and close by, but has never been satisfied! Lots of hand waving and facial expressions such as raised eyebrows, moues....they are so full of expression, love it! Robin said I would look like this woman when I grew older, as I had her same colouring and body shape...not bad! She still had lots of life in her and a good sense of humour and in good shape. She was well dressed and still wearing high heels, think she was about 80. When we told her where we were going, she told us St-Paul was a beautiful town, full of artists and to be careful on the cobbled streets...must be a mother. </p>
<p><br>
Although St-Paul-de-Vence is only 11 kms. from Nice, took about an hour as the bus stops in several towns along the way. As the bus winds it's way up the hill, the town can be seen against the skyline with its fortified walls. It is known as an artist community. </p>
<p><br>
Got off the bus just out of the town to visit the Foundation Maeght, which is a unique site set on a wooded cliff above the medieval town. It is a small modern art museum and in addition to the art in the building itself, there are numerous pieces throughout the gardens. The entire back garden has sculptures of Miro, who we really like. Also works by Marc Chagall (a Chagall museum here in Nice which we have yet to visit), Calder, Braque, Giacometti and many more. Such an interesting place for this gallery. <br>
Then a 10 minute walk to the town of St-Paul and what a beautiful little town. Sat in the local square for lunch and watched some of the older gentlemen playing pétanque next door. Strolled through the "medieval section" which has very narrow lanes and many shops filled with art and goods from the area. A real magical little place. Back to Nice around 4 p.m.; can't believe how quickly the days pass by.<br>
In one of the small shops we spoke to a young lady there who said my French was very good. She said she just knew a little English, but she managed well. She said most tourists tried a little French, with exception of the Germans. She would tell them, in French and English, that she couldn't speak or understand German. They in turn would continue to speak German, make no effort to try even a simple, "bonjour or merci", but just speak louder!</p>
<p><br>
Ran across our first "rude" waiter in St -Paul de Vence. I think at one time it was thought that a lot of the french were rude, simply not the case, with the exception of this one guy. When I told the waiter we wanted to share a salad, he said " non" ....not big enough, wouldn't bring another plate, but he would bring me an extra fork; which was said with sarcasm. Then ordered a "pressions brune" (dark draft beer) for Robin, said "non"... they don't have, only bottles. Think he was in a bad mood......lot's of German tourists in town (did I say that out loud?). Not sure if that was the reason! </p>
<p><br>
It has been interesting when we come across some shopkeepers. I always speak French, but at times, they insist on speaking English, as they want to practice. So half the conversation is In English and I respond in French. <br>
</p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BdaW1iUiQXA/UY1BnCgBqcI/AAAAAAAAFcU/Wr_ndyuxXQQ/s1600/IMAGE_313B2C59-25C5-4ACA-805A-D54FBC52382B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="" target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BdaW1iUiQXA/UY1BnCgBqcI/AAAAAAAAFcU/Wr_ndyuxXQQ/s1600/IMAGE_313B2C59-25C5-4ACA-805A-D54FBC52382B.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321550.6892" class="alignnone" alt="" width="603" height="452"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marina on the east side of Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYrsjtRE0gY/UY1BplAoZNI/AAAAAAAAFcc/4x7mGmhiFd4/s1600/IMAGE_22997BBC-07F6-44D2-B657-6C9CB8B87B8F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYrsjtRE0gY/UY1BplAoZNI/AAAAAAAAFcc/4x7mGmhiFd4/s320/IMAGE_22997BBC-07F6-44D2-B657-6C9CB8B87B8F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321575.2256" class="" alt="" width="320" height="281"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first picture of us together</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUPNlgFpTLCDmq5UcGsnMk06FbbrqUsm1a2iWDUO73lV1W2XSSAr7Pb0nvbfRfsWjtdAKJ1J29QbTvck3YVg7A95kU2DQuX0objJoz4CZ9uQ6RIjffpIOLkVtsYFp57TGmYSGKaD3OMWJ/s1600/IMAGE_91839ADA-668D-421D-99CE-D1ADA42E4D02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUPNlgFpTLCDmq5UcGsnMk06FbbrqUsm1a2iWDUO73lV1W2XSSAr7Pb0nvbfRfsWjtdAKJ1J29QbTvck3YVg7A95kU2DQuX0objJoz4CZ9uQ6RIjffpIOLkVtsYFp57TGmYSGKaD3OMWJ/s1600/IMAGE_91839ADA-668D-421D-99CE-D1ADA42E4D02.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321562.477" class="" alt="" width="259" height="345"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The path to the cemetery on Castle Hill in Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nHo76sFAqis/UY1CCfiGYgI/AAAAAAAAFVg/StNqHEDfqzs/s1600/IMAGE_FA8E5456-89B7-4767-8FB6-AD253B1179CD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nHo76sFAqis/UY1CCfiGYgI/AAAAAAAAFVg/StNqHEDfqzs/s320/IMAGE_FA8E5456-89B7-4767-8FB6-AD253B1179CD.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321488.0232" class="" alt="" width="281" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cemetery in Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKwIenkp4uw/UY1B-V2qnkI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/3A4ZLY6p-QI/s1600/IMAGE_52F98271-A4C0-48BA-B510-C62C0C32BB14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKwIenkp4uw/UY1B-V2qnkI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/3A4ZLY6p-QI/s320/IMAGE_52F98271-A4C0-48BA-B510-C62C0C32BB14.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321540.8972" class="" alt="" width="230" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQtcMDynjhYyBiLzLEPtQHXi-wy1Ab9vIwYXVtH-PvkKh4-LYCz7usLyrm5pXQzpyMMviPJFzqSbxlKdX6uqr1EW9ewjetEbEJ-YbwxKULtHxePm4R-NoQTnk61HgN-pnVcf3T3r_crcY/s1600/IMAGE_A7FF1E36-066C-4DAE-8CA3-70EF0F174A59.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQtcMDynjhYyBiLzLEPtQHXi-wy1Ab9vIwYXVtH-PvkKh4-LYCz7usLyrm5pXQzpyMMviPJFzqSbxlKdX6uqr1EW9ewjetEbEJ-YbwxKULtHxePm4R-NoQTnk61HgN-pnVcf3T3r_crcY/s320/IMAGE_A7FF1E36-066C-4DAE-8CA3-70EF0F174A59.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321529.796" class="" alt="" width="161" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire pointing to Place Sainte Claire</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCGFS3xoOv4/UY1CNZNPyOI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/ie2yWm7-X0Y/s1600/IMAGE_FCB1CBFB-485C-420E-8DC1-9703FF725DA5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCGFS3xoOv4/UY1CNZNPyOI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/ie2yWm7-X0Y/s320/IMAGE_FCB1CBFB-485C-420E-8DC1-9703FF725DA5.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321558.9192" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The local buses, always very clean</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7c1ZHQl1YGagEqNAcwE5p0pKJw-LhehyphenhyphenDHKi1qPbxZPLCMpgH_Hmtjm4JGcp4FewJef3scok8Xci4tvKar8n90bj1ejbhQ7pQMxCFmopjO8r7t3QUocVcBS4jRGfmVhM58AV9uFgqTmqn/s1600/IMAGE_BDC43632-B024-4068-8B49-769B16550FBC.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7c1ZHQl1YGagEqNAcwE5p0pKJw-LhehyphenhyphenDHKi1qPbxZPLCMpgH_Hmtjm4JGcp4FewJef3scok8Xci4tvKar8n90bj1ejbhQ7pQMxCFmopjO8r7t3QUocVcBS4jRGfmVhM58AV9uFgqTmqn/s320/IMAGE_BDC43632-B024-4068-8B49-769B16550FBC.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321532.5195" class="" alt="" width="221" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Miro sculpture at Foundation Maeght in St-Paul -de-Vence</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CfhE56dUFU4/UY1CR76DTxI/AAAAAAAAFaI/AEkKSSdQXO0/s1600/IMAGE_055BBB2F-CD11-4C1A-B9D5-6E814AA85836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CfhE56dUFU4/UY1CR76DTxI/AAAAAAAAFaI/AEkKSSdQXO0/s320/IMAGE_055BBB2F-CD11-4C1A-B9D5-6E814AA85836.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321517.6248" class="" alt="" width="248" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Andrew Calder sculpture </td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylEVyBj-Ky0/UY1CTjP5ocI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/VVCiKhf0se4/s1600/IMAGE_978A1E9C-A481-467E-B2B7-C518909CB4F9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylEVyBj-Ky0/UY1CTjP5ocI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/VVCiKhf0se4/s320/IMAGE_978A1E9C-A481-467E-B2B7-C518909CB4F9.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321568.8977" class="" alt="" width="152" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miro</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U3snQ0T8OXI/UY1CVcyXAmI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/DMKQHaslWBI/s1600/IMAGE_97D2FC4E-9D29-4E43-91B1-2CCD8BAE437D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U3snQ0T8OXI/UY1CVcyXAmI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/DMKQHaslWBI/s320/IMAGE_97D2FC4E-9D29-4E43-91B1-2CCD8BAE437D.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321497.598" class="" alt="" width="212" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BDeJKOyrEF8/UY1Ck0Nb-cI/AAAAAAAAFaY/vBQwNSzO9Mk/s1600/IMAGE_2F9B182A-659D-42EC-8BE9-1D6D5D887C11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BDeJKOyrEF8/UY1Ck0Nb-cI/AAAAAAAAFaY/vBQwNSzO9Mk/s1600/IMAGE_2F9B182A-659D-42EC-8BE9-1D6D5D887C11.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321565.9668" class="" alt="" width="345" height="259"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gardens at the art gallery</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NmwgPkzF-Qg/UY1CnumPjTI/AAAAAAAAFWg/HoRCWd4mcVc/s1600/IMAGE_C91B067E-7C50-4AC5-A4B2-085BF052C15F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NmwgPkzF-Qg/UY1CnumPjTI/AAAAAAAAFWg/HoRCWd4mcVc/s320/IMAGE_C91B067E-7C50-4AC5-A4B2-085BF052C15F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321545.9048" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uph3EjBzaZk/UY1CpbUT6fI/AAAAAAAAFag/0rsJGPfVlpM/s1600/IMAGE_B28C3FE0-04C7-41BB-863D-38064C26C252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uph3EjBzaZk/UY1CpbUT6fI/AAAAAAAAFag/0rsJGPfVlpM/s320/IMAGE_B28C3FE0-04C7-41BB-863D-38064C26C252.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321527.4194" class="" alt="" width="283" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who is the monkey?</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9DSjiv7JQoQ/UY1Cr1rA1lI/AAAAAAAAFao/acyei4Cok8U/s1600/IMAGE_47EA964C-9136-4542-9991-C2614EDC26B7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9DSjiv7JQoQ/UY1Cr1rA1lI/AAAAAAAAFao/acyei4Cok8U/s1600/IMAGE_47EA964C-9136-4542-9991-C2614EDC26B7.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321523.6274" class="" alt="" width="385" height="290"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in the gardens</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOp_-xF2mb01WMgqL7x6PAlKpf42K8IHFNc_KXak0zECBYLPTSVeCscX2e8tTOERK-fLC_TJ9_ljg9EqacaRfdCr5nv0eTvuVlHz0NpWvE3Ym75qiGjex-STAdQAGjgis1yHtfsTSJ8L9/s1600/IMAGE_EE4D92F2-06E2-484C-A5D8-9EFAC45BCDFD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtOp_-xF2mb01WMgqL7x6PAlKpf42K8IHFNc_KXak0zECBYLPTSVeCscX2e8tTOERK-fLC_TJ9_ljg9EqacaRfdCr5nv0eTvuVlHz0NpWvE3Ym75qiGjex-STAdQAGjgis1yHtfsTSJ8L9/s1600/IMAGE_EE4D92F2-06E2-484C-A5D8-9EFAC45BCDFD.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321590.4097" class="" alt="" width="312" height="368"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sculpture was always moving due to the water going through it...fascinating</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2sMvkJlRaWTk8BezqK7NN-Kv5xtsbFfsjlwPaFy2hLWQZfK5ny2a3krfuACjg0NajSfrx6CgmlZGvJ46IkTNJCEdwxSsi86korLVNUW5OCT_2nQN8SU0_ADcvGvzvQjbfFmwEM7yxEqs/s1600/IMAGE_F9E27FB0-6A12-4748-9FF4-9A0F860A6F79.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2sMvkJlRaWTk8BezqK7NN-Kv5xtsbFfsjlwPaFy2hLWQZfK5ny2a3krfuACjg0NajSfrx6CgmlZGvJ46IkTNJCEdwxSsi86korLVNUW5OCT_2nQN8SU0_ADcvGvzvQjbfFmwEM7yxEqs/s1600/IMAGE_F9E27FB0-6A12-4748-9FF4-9A0F860A6F79.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321582.8235" class="" alt="" width="454" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break at the art gallery</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u8AeN3wHbgI/UY1C80JagFI/AAAAAAAAFbA/WbQ5NcGDsPA/s1600/IMAGE_DC3B4D79-044F-4FBE-9A40-74F04A722557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u8AeN3wHbgI/UY1C80JagFI/AAAAAAAAFbA/WbQ5NcGDsPA/s1600/IMAGE_DC3B4D79-044F-4FBE-9A40-74F04A722557.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321537.2275" class="" alt="" width="576" height="432"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pétanque balls</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sQu5XHKyxms/UY1C_FTHKrI/AAAAAAAAFcg/oyEUZ6gelLY/s1600/IMAGE_B86E44CA-F6A1-4322-904C-DBA1DDBFCFC0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sQu5XHKyxms/UY1C_FTHKrI/AAAAAAAAFcg/oyEUZ6gelLY/s1600/IMAGE_B86E44CA-F6A1-4322-904C-DBA1DDBFCFC0.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321544.2456" class="" alt="" width="446" height="336"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pétanque paying area just below the ancient walls of the medieval town</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lRrfQCycNeo/UY1DAtuhELI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/91xpvf6_ggI/s1600/IMAGE_A5E2240E-7E7B-4E30-B62F-6E48DDEA7D0D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lRrfQCycNeo/UY1DAtuhELI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/91xpvf6_ggI/s320/IMAGE_A5E2240E-7E7B-4E30-B62F-6E48DDEA7D0D.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321595.0657" class="" alt="" width="176" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire in St-Paul-de-Vence</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hOxFREDsf1o/UY1DMF5wIRI/AAAAAAAAFbY/EOLbjKyXtvU/s1600/IMAGE_5D419A45-CB21-4D3E-9D83-CE68AAE95A6D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hOxFREDsf1o/UY1DMF5wIRI/AAAAAAAAFbY/EOLbjKyXtvU/s1600/IMAGE_5D419A45-CB21-4D3E-9D83-CE68AAE95A6D.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321556.8948" class="" alt="" width="479" height="359"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many colourful art galleries in St Paul</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IWedM-g1l5E/UY1DaYJBpgI/AAAAAAAAFbg/DJvvM-U6GH4/s1600/IMAGE_368595FD-AB04-46EE-AE79-7582F5C4B71F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IWedM-g1l5E/UY1DaYJBpgI/AAAAAAAAFbg/DJvvM-U6GH4/s1600/IMAGE_368595FD-AB04-46EE-AE79-7582F5C4B71F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321596.1165" class="" alt="" width="432" height="576"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful narrow lanes of St-Paul</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-58OMu9p6_gs/UY1DdOOi9DI/AAAAAAAAFXw/lspu1UehXcw/s1600/IMAGE_ED72F6F8-C72F-42CC-8838-F3B6E674390E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-58OMu9p6_gs/UY1DdOOi9DI/AAAAAAAAFXw/lspu1UehXcw/s1600/IMAGE_ED72F6F8-C72F-42CC-8838-F3B6E674390E.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321575.897" class="" alt="" width="449" height="614"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzY7zhIerhWHV8yAM-pREKzveQbGsSYZ3XiV29a-9FlbQezmlahUIGpEZdNNLB8t2c0bRcVJGBxXqWOfbO4xA8__iGU1x_734Uk4bIm2152vGcEZRiQVx_d1d2wPJNBlktpOw0zYbRNGCK/s1600/IMAGE_38035E18-3526-43EB-A17F-4113DA7B37B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzY7zhIerhWHV8yAM-pREKzveQbGsSYZ3XiV29a-9FlbQezmlahUIGpEZdNNLB8t2c0bRcVJGBxXqWOfbO4xA8__iGU1x_734Uk4bIm2152vGcEZRiQVx_d1d2wPJNBlktpOw0zYbRNGCK/s1600/IMAGE_38035E18-3526-43EB-A17F-4113DA7B37B2.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321605.5134" class="" alt="" width="444" height="614"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this one!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYwS4HlMbho/UY1DsTza2iI/AAAAAAAAFYA/HSTYROUGiRE/s1600/IMAGE_93C058AA-3B8A-4233-8911-4A27F03AB758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYwS4HlMbho/UY1DsTza2iI/AAAAAAAAFYA/HSTYROUGiRE/s1600/IMAGE_93C058AA-3B8A-4233-8911-4A27F03AB758.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321565.0244" class="" alt="" width="576" height="432"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bYxKGh_y0OBIKWTJHcSXpcEgPXCa3Ei-GUHIfW6IBdmlh6m-kS0HPcuJ2LSR3J1s7uYKb5FwU6lNcE5RQEhuUNPBreJdi1ZnfEoIN35HI-Y8bpOJSZ1I5birvHazmptahkBQgwZf8oOP/s1600/IMAGE_D3372F98-CC0B-4F24-AAD8-E034D09FB775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bYxKGh_y0OBIKWTJHcSXpcEgPXCa3Ei-GUHIfW6IBdmlh6m-kS0HPcuJ2LSR3J1s7uYKb5FwU6lNcE5RQEhuUNPBreJdi1ZnfEoIN35HI-Y8bpOJSZ1I5birvHazmptahkBQgwZf8oOP/s1600/IMAGE_D3372F98-CC0B-4F24-AAD8-E034D09FB775.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321597.8801" class="" alt="" width="576" height="432"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm clouds moving in over the mountains, but it just rained for a few minutes</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-azBVGztj0t4/UY1EGPPuPWI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/4BpfvDWLKlQ/s1600/IMAGE_3E6EB19A-1A6D-43A2-BD23-9E821F14210F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-azBVGztj0t4/UY1EGPPuPWI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/4BpfvDWLKlQ/s1600/IMAGE_3E6EB19A-1A6D-43A2-BD23-9E821F14210F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321574.3188" class="" alt="" width="432" height="576"></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VkInVll1PmA/UY1Ei_mcRqI/AAAAAAAAFYg/Ykd3Owz7zd4/s1600/IMAGE_7AB6E4BB-1AA2-4BFF-B401-EF88A0107086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VkInVll1PmA/UY1Ei_mcRqI/AAAAAAAAFYg/Ykd3Owz7zd4/s1600/IMAGE_7AB6E4BB-1AA2-4BFF-B401-EF88A0107086.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321529.7012" class="" alt="" width="432" height="576"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kMdIMGyl0Bw/UY1EyT0sCPI/AAAAAAAAFb4/WKPgamljYpQ/s1600/IMAGE_BF625DA9-EEB1-41CD-9BAB-F73C13806BA4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kMdIMGyl0Bw/UY1EyT0sCPI/AAAAAAAAFb4/WKPgamljYpQ/s1600/IMAGE_BF625DA9-EEB1-41CD-9BAB-F73C13806BA4.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321603.7517" class="" alt="" width="432" height="576"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfrGpp5xwRy0EH0yeIhsRQpqWH9laY3h3gLD2yONK-zsXpSfhvQaBbR6GyOq0lzvZvZDBnKh6U6ZJ7E_QcKaUKWIJq43BCZjPYM-crBS3smK5AvNic_fnwP0c3BqsV42YS9wwq1fvUYKHx/s1600/IMAGE_36AF16EC-26E4-481D-9526-963CFEFAF733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfrGpp5xwRy0EH0yeIhsRQpqWH9laY3h3gLD2yONK-zsXpSfhvQaBbR6GyOq0lzvZvZDBnKh6U6ZJ7E_QcKaUKWIJq43BCZjPYM-crBS3smK5AvNic_fnwP0c3BqsV42YS9wwq1fvUYKHx/s1600/IMAGE_36AF16EC-26E4-481D-9526-963CFEFAF733.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321533.0286" class="" alt="" width="373" height="614"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cemetery in Nice...a little out of order</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEaXyGutNwdbL57J2HDWCE4DAOdTNYXV465WD5uZrpCA2C1zrjT4thXiHi7Q4rgmLDbzIODPrFatmbaaZw09duYnZ0bVPXSqjpoL9ap9as9lVAOgrpcVHVsy0yOHmHnTP24dhNECZFQDp/s1600/IMAGE_F155D520-D21F-42E6-9B50-D18023ECA523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEaXyGutNwdbL57J2HDWCE4DAOdTNYXV465WD5uZrpCA2C1zrjT4thXiHi7Q4rgmLDbzIODPrFatmbaaZw09duYnZ0bVPXSqjpoL9ap9as9lVAOgrpcVHVsy0yOHmHnTP24dhNECZFQDp/s1600/IMAGE_F155D520-D21F-42E6-9B50-D18023ECA523.JPG" id="blogsy-1368274321569.5513" class="" alt="" width="614" height="479"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up to the medieval town of St-Paul-de-Vence</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-30137381861641191242013-05-08T11:53:00.000-07:002013-05-08T12:01:50.352-07:00Travels in and around Nice<p>Whenever we travel, we always like to find out what foods are typical of the region. Of course, moules and frites are served everywhere along the coast, but a couple of very different recipes especially from the Nice region follow:<br>
1) Socca - a chickpea crepe , a <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="text-align: left;">specialty of the region and you’re not likely to find them being made anywhere else. And it’s not something one makes at home: to be authentic, <em> socca </em></span><span style="text-align: left;"> should be baked over a fire. Once served, it should be eaten while hot and one usually drinks it with a glass of rosé. Something you eat as a snack. Had some yesterday and we enjoyed it as a mid day snack, with the wine .....of course! It is said that this dish was born of sheer poverty at a time when wheat flour was scarce. Picture below. </span></span><br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDgKSukicT8tVmvtswzhbBpvmsgP0dJ86OnM7dz9kKVPzY4uRJZjLuLRHrNWJv99GQG0pPf5EM9_Qry6riv0Oz7Vz-I61v09iBOncXiJvqMXkT_bBq3eJyQ6ye6H74TAIXXNzvKK82hED/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-05%2525203%25253A24%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDgKSukicT8tVmvtswzhbBpvmsgP0dJ86OnM7dz9kKVPzY4uRJZjLuLRHrNWJv99GQG0pPf5EM9_Qry6riv0Oz7Vz-I61v09iBOncXiJvqMXkT_bBq3eJyQ6ye6H74TAIXXNzvKK82hED/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-05%2525203%25253A24%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1368039701010.9346" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="422" height="370"></a></div>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">2) Pissaladiere - A very thin pizza made with onions, olives, garlic and anchovies. No cheese. We ordered Pissaladiere for lunch and really enjoyed it, the onions are carmelized and the crust is very thin. Will definitely order again.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">3) Panisse - also made with chick pea flour, but is a smaller round of dough and thicker than socca. Also different as it is cooked in oil. We bought some freshly made from a pasta store and will fry it up, will let you know the outcome. Gluten free Nicole !</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">4) Les Petits Farcis - also served as an appetizer, Farsi are minis vegetables stuffed with minced veal, pork, egg, bread crumbs. The vegetables are normally mini courgettes (zucchini), aubergines (eggplant), cherry tomatoes and poivrons (sweet peppers). Then topped with olive oil, cheese and baked. Will try these as well. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: -webkit-auto;">We have a very small bar type fridge in our apartment, which is the norm for Europe. Part of the charm and daily activity is to go to the fresh food market, boucherie, poissonerie, etc. to buy your provisions for only a few days at a time.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: left;">On Sunday the 5th, Ken ( the handyman in our building) invited us to "his pub", to watch a football (soccer) match. We spent an hour or so there and met a few of fhis friends. Nice to meet locals and Robin was very happy to watch a football match. </p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As part of this day out, we visited the Musee D'Art Moderne et D'Art Contemporain. Very interesting modern art and the building has a roof top garden with more art incorporated throughout this outdoor area. Even the windows of the building are art pieces. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6MI-DcEFmlI/UYkBICTxOCI/AAAAAAAAFRE/XOD9teJLEuo/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-04%2525205%25253A36%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6MI-DcEFmlI/UYkBICTxOCI/AAAAAAAAFRE/XOD9teJLEuo/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-04%2525205%25253A36%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1368039701041.006" class="alignleft" alt="" width="425" height="319"></a></div>
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<p style="text-align: left;">Seems that the city of Nice is undergoing a major restoration of their green spaces. Great to see a city spending money to enhance their surroundings.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">We have bought tickets for the Nice Tennis Open at the end of the month, which is a warm up for the French Open in Paris. Looking forward to that as we really enjoyed seeing the tennis in Indian Wells, California this past March. We are looking into tickets for the last Nice football (soccer) match, but we are told they might be sold out. Ken the handyman warned us not to go as too many Arabs there! A young French woman we met at the pub sai that Ken didn't know what he was talking about as she is an avid fan and goes to all the matches...so we will try.</p>
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<p style="text-align: left;">On Monday, the 6th, we took the local bus down to the train station and decided to go to Monaco for the day. Only had to wait about 20 minutes, then the train,which was very clean and comfortable only took 17 minutes to get to Monaco...yes, I did time it. While visiting Monaco, we walked about 10 kms. - so not too concerned that we haven't joined the gym. We went to visit "Les Jardins Exotiques" which is built on a cliffside above the city with great views of Monaco. The garden is mainly cacti and succulents native to North and South America and parts of Africa. It has been in existence since 1933. We then walked back into town, stopped for lunch, then onto the Palais Princier, where we were able to visit 17 apartments of the castle. Prince Albert says "Hi ! ". Monaco has an area of 2.2 square kms. and is a principality, bordered by France on three sides,the sea on the other and a population of 36,000. Monte Carlo is one of the quarters of Monaco, however we didn't have time to walk there, maybe on another day. It is the world's second smallest City, after the Vatican. Monaco has the world's highest life expectancy at 90 years of age and the world's most expensive real estate at $58,300 U.S. per square meter...yikes...who can afford to live here up to 90 years of age? Robin says, crooks, ex-dictators, Wall Street hedge fund vultures and Russian Oligarch's ! Although a lot of the town is built up on the hillside, they have a great system of stairs and elevators to get you up to where you want to go.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueYE52WwwbUmltWtambVIySJYtmBo77842-GeX_3UPjTTLO2qcTZOMsrg5QbTspZY6_psTf_Bc4g43pR0qTqR5867v6FSn4cMCASwTipBjlPvs9Do-doDNxz8vYfhZRG8q0HiCRD4E09L/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-05%2525203%25253A48%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueYE52WwwbUmltWtambVIySJYtmBo77842-GeX_3UPjTTLO2qcTZOMsrg5QbTspZY6_psTf_Bc4g43pR0qTqR5867v6FSn4cMCASwTipBjlPvs9Do-doDNxz8vYfhZRG8q0HiCRD4E09L/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-05%2525203%25253A48%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1368039701023.584" class="alignright" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<p>Monaco is extremely clean, no litter or graffiti in sight. Their main source of income is from tourism. It also has a bike system, but unlike other cities with these systems, their bikes are all electric. Makes sense when the City rises on the hills above the various marinas. Another thing we have noticed is that outside of every drug store there is a coin operated condom dispensing machine. Frenchmen make love every day....we don't really see the women smiling though....maybe doesn't happen at home, therefore the machines.<br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSgTdgCyXRoDoS_ifaZuv9c7RLKlTyrMAin-m3ocBd2d-nbD5bfGe1bwwU45YzFzKJ2JeP0BLJk3tHrp7nx47uyRQ7MOtftBSl7JfyfBdbSIQJGsz4H0k5CWXOkzUgQ-nn8d8ZuArGQ89/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-07%2525204%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSgTdgCyXRoDoS_ifaZuv9c7RLKlTyrMAin-m3ocBd2d-nbD5bfGe1bwwU45YzFzKJ2JeP0BLJk3tHrp7nx47uyRQ7MOtftBSl7JfyfBdbSIQJGsz4H0k5CWXOkzUgQ-nn8d8ZuArGQ89/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-07%2525204%25253A37%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1368039701009.8267" class="alignleft" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<p>On Wednesday, the 8th we decided to rent bikes from a local bike shop, to ride to Antibes. We did want better quality bikes than the Velo Bleu, which are really only good for shorts jaunts around town. We biked a total of 40 kms. to and from Antibes. Explored the old town, bought a few things at the market, which was already closing down, and had lunch before heading back home. Most markets start very early and close around 1 p.m. We missed buying fish the other day at the Nice market, as the fresh fish sells out very early. After returning the bikes, we were so thirsty, had to stop at one of the bars along the beach and have a cold one! Nicoise - When in the old town the other day, I noticed that the street sign was in two languages. When I asked the owner of the restaurant why the signs where also in Italian, I was soon corrected and told they were in French and Nicard ( the ancient dialect of Nice), although very few speak it. The word nicoise, relates to anything from Nice.<br>
French products - one thing we have certainly noticed, is that French shops definitely highlight products that are made in France. What a great way of promoting yourself and helping your own economy...we must really learn from this in Canada, notwithstanding the possible higher cost...buy local. <br>
Although a lot of the towns in the Côte d'Azur are similar (especially when you see the old street and marina pictures), they all have their own character and ambience and each town is a little different in it's own right. We are enjoying our travels to these small towns by bike, bus and train.<br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_IoNhhKYxXPF2xvgqGFMUyclM36xy5bAwyG1e43Akt4xKlQj5yfHPRl2BAnRa14Z4crerVz24LqsRWg_Rm9YSZz6Lky7cHc2Al0-49sfypRbiwnYsgiOInK-rO_Ch-YDEQWw9CY2AWGA/s1600/IMAGE_1434D90C-4423-4B0A-8E9D-0698A4A9B294.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_IoNhhKYxXPF2xvgqGFMUyclM36xy5bAwyG1e43Akt4xKlQj5yfHPRl2BAnRa14Z4crerVz24LqsRWg_Rm9YSZz6Lky7cHc2Al0-49sfypRbiwnYsgiOInK-rO_Ch-YDEQWw9CY2AWGA/s320/IMAGE_1434D90C-4423-4B0A-8E9D-0698A4A9B294.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701089.4756" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Musee d'Art Moderne</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGmiFs0UEO0/UYj8p5RR9oI/AAAAAAAAFOc/Y__yhTUMFLM/s1600/IMAGE_57D6108B-E26C-42D0-A190-434CB29E40EB.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NGmiFs0UEO0/UYj8p5RR9oI/AAAAAAAAFOc/Y__yhTUMFLM/s320/IMAGE_57D6108B-E26C-42D0-A190-434CB29E40EB.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701018.2634" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IKE9GOxK8zw/UYj8uOy2S2I/AAAAAAAAFOk/hC7QZi6Yh28/s1600/IMAGE_9B76A721-D6C1-4B7C-A1B1-41EC6740DB4D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IKE9GOxK8zw/UYj8uOy2S2I/AAAAAAAAFOk/hC7QZi6Yh28/s320/IMAGE_9B76A721-D6C1-4B7C-A1B1-41EC6740DB4D.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701000.5527" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMxnalPEvtaPRPHLB0CX5MH6-4fnYeP6FjBYGnoaEaBAjAcKogyBoJ69M3llG9Zgy8iXGd9x6d-Oo2TKaLi5BZeMSmZVliLZtcmJdLI9lL-tSsMsoP7MjdWcW_RJ4ibuW3_q3dZqfqPZ_/s1600/IMAGE_C0634E9E-0616-4067-B406-90E2810B3285.JPG" imageanchor="1" target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMxnalPEvtaPRPHLB0CX5MH6-4fnYeP6FjBYGnoaEaBAjAcKogyBoJ69M3llG9Zgy8iXGd9x6d-Oo2TKaLi5BZeMSmZVliLZtcmJdLI9lL-tSsMsoP7MjdWcW_RJ4ibuW3_q3dZqfqPZ_/s320/IMAGE_C0634E9E-0616-4067-B406-90E2810B3285.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701074.2988" class="" alt="" width="320" height="192"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Nice cemetery from the art gallery</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VsPrNExN4U/UYj-vKfnYfI/AAAAAAAAFO4/2uJZ1Qo37Zc/s1600/IMAGE_02745E4D-0B75-4259-AFF6-F71EF00BB9DB.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VsPrNExN4U/UYj-vKfnYfI/AAAAAAAAFO4/2uJZ1Qo37Zc/s320/IMAGE_02745E4D-0B75-4259-AFF6-F71EF00BB9DB.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701048.488" class="" alt="" width="310" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaE6g_5wbb0bAiA-K2bOdbSvmtEzrhT0cNHgb0OLR8kftMCDntTWoK7MWAYIdjgGTRHKoQTjQBq1WCGgUARV3_dn6Ut0HFBHrP5_xbbc5jhY850Eg5_Ys2Owcz7vRLLSO631w2jrGPQFMQ/s1600/IMAGE_0E7B6BAF-A204-426B-9665-31AA95BB821B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaE6g_5wbb0bAiA-K2bOdbSvmtEzrhT0cNHgb0OLR8kftMCDntTWoK7MWAYIdjgGTRHKoQTjQBq1WCGgUARV3_dn6Ut0HFBHrP5_xbbc5jhY850Eg5_Ys2Owcz7vRLLSO631w2jrGPQFMQ/s320/IMAGE_0E7B6BAF-A204-426B-9665-31AA95BB821B.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701084.2107" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on the rooftop gardens at the art gallery</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dFtzYVkaLvg/UYj-24WWlHI/AAAAAAAAFPI/M3u9gEPb_I4/s1600/IMAGE_16A8E57A-66EA-4021-B126-C0BA8F34FC77.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dFtzYVkaLvg/UYj-24WWlHI/AAAAAAAAFPI/M3u9gEPb_I4/s320/IMAGE_16A8E57A-66EA-4021-B126-C0BA8F34FC77.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701043.3347" class="" alt="" width="320" height="267"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Alexander Calder sculpture outside the art gallery</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuG0UNCQhCvW80nnw21I4kKf8no77PPguOX3tEr601coNkIcjB2itRpz9e-b_ATy-pgVEjf2OuEuS4L6c6MFcaEAFjHMt6ghCQo6r9b6rQLntfBtz-QoSsHUH7jIuj-NU24mEOJxd7DeR/s1600/IMAGE_B279FBE9-2139-41F3-9801-63F48639D50D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuG0UNCQhCvW80nnw21I4kKf8no77PPguOX3tEr601coNkIcjB2itRpz9e-b_ATy-pgVEjf2OuEuS4L6c6MFcaEAFjHMt6ghCQo6r9b6rQLntfBtz-QoSsHUH7jIuj-NU24mEOJxd7DeR/s320/IMAGE_B279FBE9-2139-41F3-9801-63F48639D50D.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701101.0266" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin at the Jardin Exotiques in Monaco with the marina in the background</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Sc-vzyM5z4baIc86nMCk24mbgfvX5VxK7-LvllgtXvIGp2CuIvjP6Q9dmIdMYeioV2k-LmYMAQq9ngYR8l3a1AC4l7F1WOHOnuTDmQeo7xI67pJSNy_RzXWcDDdvA_Hj1GdmPDDMwv2s/s1600/IMAGE_902D7F15-8836-49FE-BBFF-BA69DBEFC7B6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Sc-vzyM5z4baIc86nMCk24mbgfvX5VxK7-LvllgtXvIGp2CuIvjP6Q9dmIdMYeioV2k-LmYMAQq9ngYR8l3a1AC4l7F1WOHOnuTDmQeo7xI67pJSNy_RzXWcDDdvA_Hj1GdmPDDMwv2s/s320/IMAGE_902D7F15-8836-49FE-BBFF-BA69DBEFC7B6.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701058.1736" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cemetery in Monaco</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9Bb0b3reyA/UYj_TOEHGvI/AAAAAAAAFPo/mhRs9A3qfi4/s1600/IMAGE_B8928148-0727-49EF-A554-E2549C22F035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9Bb0b3reyA/UYj_TOEHGvI/AAAAAAAAFPo/mhRs9A3qfi4/s320/IMAGE_B8928148-0727-49EF-A554-E2549C22F035.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701028.1516" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMhzj5DTV6s/UYj_V7ikzKI/AAAAAAAAFPw/n-p4TVqTCA0/s1600/IMAGE_464217D1-AB3E-4E4F-92F9-E0708C449150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PMhzj5DTV6s/UYj_V7ikzKI/AAAAAAAAFPw/n-p4TVqTCA0/s320/IMAGE_464217D1-AB3E-4E4F-92F9-E0708C449150.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701084.3684" class="" alt="" width="320" height="292"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pathways at the Jardin Exotique in Monaco</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT_vXmMYkalcuJ_G84Ujf86sIZrMxIldr-pzi5LUVTu6J094voyZ-aon3dPM3GuZTjYKMNej0alnf21Yn8a3C790c1TLEWLBzOgW8wZ_MJN60swO8z1vZx7EoY2EL0PUJI8IWkevnf706x/s1600/IMAGE_5C18C8C5-A3F3-4E13-8F9F-725A3B471256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT_vXmMYkalcuJ_G84Ujf86sIZrMxIldr-pzi5LUVTu6J094voyZ-aon3dPM3GuZTjYKMNej0alnf21Yn8a3C790c1TLEWLBzOgW8wZ_MJN60swO8z1vZx7EoY2EL0PUJI8IWkevnf706x/s320/IMAGE_5C18C8C5-A3F3-4E13-8F9F-725A3B471256.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701090.5771" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ch8FbpABzHY/UYkAPQITD8I/AAAAAAAAFQg/Yn9isswC7V0/s1600/IMAGE_21DAABB1-7982-4C4C-9064-B3E3A61C0FB9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ch8FbpABzHY/UYkAPQITD8I/AAAAAAAAFQg/Yn9isswC7V0/s320/IMAGE_21DAABB1-7982-4C4C-9064-B3E3A61C0FB9.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701043.5776" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many marinas in Monaco</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6prfl2Vdzj8/UYkAA1zyuhI/AAAAAAAAFQY/T2YP-QY65Ds/s1600/IMAGE_9F62BF53-DDB4-4037-A675-E6027226039F.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6prfl2Vdzj8/UYkAA1zyuhI/AAAAAAAAFQY/T2YP-QY65Ds/s320/IMAGE_9F62BF53-DDB4-4037-A675-E6027226039F.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701081.1462" class="" alt="" width="320" height="282"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the guards at the Palais Princier</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooBihybyhblyT3-bWxUyTycvIh9VvhDb_j2Q-nDDqpURUws0-uh48AqRVXgOjzpK7AcYU7ItNHonm2EHAReJr_si7Wb2ITreeNmluQCKF_DkMpNyDhLKH1gkrOTHSo8ibrz8vtNCH1kzR/s1600/IMAGE_78F2297B-7F43-4675-8104-756D4A41FCC3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooBihybyhblyT3-bWxUyTycvIh9VvhDb_j2Q-nDDqpURUws0-uh48AqRVXgOjzpK7AcYU7ItNHonm2EHAReJr_si7Wb2ITreeNmluQCKF_DkMpNyDhLKH1gkrOTHSo8ibrz8vtNCH1kzR/s320/IMAGE_78F2297B-7F43-4675-8104-756D4A41FCC3.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701027.0427" class="" alt="" width="192" height="320"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hvhgKOB9AHs/UYqTE1SRS7I/AAAAAAAAFRs/I1BvEoboTtQ/s1600/IMAGE_5C090A6F-301F-4A57-AB3F-15056F94F064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hvhgKOB9AHs/UYqTE1SRS7I/AAAAAAAAFRs/I1BvEoboTtQ/s320/IMAGE_5C090A6F-301F-4A57-AB3F-15056F94F064.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701117.6602" class="" alt="" width="320" height="276"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin in old town Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ApcXs4HPKE4/UYqTR_CIaoI/AAAAAAAAFR0/FnX8BjppfyA/s1600/IMAGE_F2642CDC-F393-4388-A1D7-E2378A80AD88.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ApcXs4HPKE4/UYqTR_CIaoI/AAAAAAAAFR0/FnX8BjppfyA/s320/IMAGE_F2642CDC-F393-4388-A1D7-E2378A80AD88.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701058.1318" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ancient stone used for crushing olives to make oil, Antibes</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGAN4RgScHI/UYqTeKTS6wI/AAAAAAAAFR8/Nzc3pimdmUc/s1600/IMAGE_B28A72CF-D30D-4F51-8F99-66A54D58273C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGAN4RgScHI/UYqTeKTS6wI/AAAAAAAAFR8/Nzc3pimdmUc/s320/IMAGE_B28A72CF-D30D-4F51-8F99-66A54D58273C.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701107.7236" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The market in Antibes</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GOMslV1iNoY/UYqavyzWdNI/AAAAAAAAFSg/3BtgbdS4vu4/s1600/IMAGE_70F3F3F6-6037-4159-A590-815925652F9E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GOMslV1iNoY/UYqavyzWdNI/AAAAAAAAFSg/3BtgbdS4vu4/s320/IMAGE_70F3F3F6-6037-4159-A590-815925652F9E.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701064.1147" class="" alt="" width="320" height="266"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A socca wood fired oven in Antibes</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4-I-_IwMyY4mn5xjdRYzuI1WNnkNBAlN7WTuPs5JNr6d0DPkFi-L8uWbxqgCpM7QB9_UjD0lNGS_PNLXqF4OAPW_Cxmu4jiTXb0UorBJa_DJlydEjQSZIva8cfweXH6g0xWhcyUOf7z7/s1600/IMAGE_BDF05BFB-EEC4-4D8F-8EE8-086B20CB9938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4-I-_IwMyY4mn5xjdRYzuI1WNnkNBAlN7WTuPs5JNr6d0DPkFi-L8uWbxqgCpM7QB9_UjD0lNGS_PNLXqF4OAPW_Cxmu4jiTXb0UorBJa_DJlydEjQSZIva8cfweXH6g0xWhcyUOf7z7/s320/IMAGE_BDF05BFB-EEC4-4D8F-8EE8-086B20CB9938.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701109.919" class="" alt="" width="300" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beach in Antibes, not as rocky as Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SLyfctSW9Pc/UYqa4yQTxSI/AAAAAAAAFTI/0GdUAe_xwDg/s1600/IMAGE_4C342997-FD10-4DFB-8E3F-2B21016F513A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SLyfctSW9Pc/UYqa4yQTxSI/AAAAAAAAFTI/0GdUAe_xwDg/s320/IMAGE_4C342997-FD10-4DFB-8E3F-2B21016F513A.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701066.3347" class="" alt="" width="305" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on the return trip from Antibes. The old fort in the background.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QCjMyjxd6oI/UYqa6ok6JjI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/KxwUaNGTCYI/s1600/IMAGE_AFCBF000-DCBE-4D6A-984B-1708FA186DD0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QCjMyjxd6oI/UYqa6ok6JjI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/KxwUaNGTCYI/s320/IMAGE_AFCBF000-DCBE-4D6A-984B-1708FA186DD0.JPG" id="blogsy-1368039701087.3713" class="" alt="" width="320" height="276"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old gentlemen playing pétanque along the boardwalk in Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-1689739486549461622013-05-05T12:39:00.001-07:002013-05-05T12:47:32.364-07:00Nice - first impressions & activities<p>Arrived at our apartment in Nice on May 1st, after a 5 hour trip on the TGV (train de grand vitesse - high speed train). We were met at the apartment by a local Frenchman, Christophe to show us around the apartment and how things work. Those who have rented homes in Europe will know that appliances here are very different from those in North America; so one has to pay special attention when getting instructions. For example, this clothes washing machine takes 1 1/2 hours to do one load, and it doesn't even dry the clothes. We have a drying rack on the balcony. Our apartment is very comfortable, modern, clean, freshly painted, bright and well appointed, with everything that we need. A small balcony that we have enjoyed throughout the day. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyM9jjYuo7TVGNEov8cqg6eoICOxJ2Y2-M4t7V5QZAap1-7IazFy9utb2gl-1CWRuGrP35jrfwXpIiMLNuZacMid5pcqy5O2dx86pUIar-r_VueqaczQb3anh12z-O6r7sSHUk5DcczQb/s960/Photo%2525202013-05-03%2525207%25253A15%252520AM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyM9jjYuo7TVGNEov8cqg6eoICOxJ2Y2-M4t7V5QZAap1-7IazFy9utb2gl-1CWRuGrP35jrfwXpIiMLNuZacMid5pcqy5O2dx86pUIar-r_VueqaczQb3anh12z-O6r7sSHUk5DcczQb/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-03%2525207%25253A15%252520AM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238909.83" class="alignleft" alt="" width="436" height="581"></a></div>
<p>As in most of Europe there are electric shutters on the windows, which most people put down when they are leaving their apartments for security and to keep the sunlight out. We went grocery shopping right after looking around to see what supplies were in the apartment. Only one small store opened as it was May 1st, France's labour day.</p>
<p>Got back and decided to take a walk along the boardwalk, which is called Promenade des Anglais. Went to close the shutters and the bedroom shutter closed, but not the main shutter. The conversation goes... "Weren't we paying attention when Christophe told us what to do? OMG, hope we haven't broken the thing after only one hour here. Let's go outside and see if we can manually bring it down...nothing! Oh well, let's not force it? Can't believe this.....we are smart people, aren't we? Let's leave it, not force it and call Christophe tomorrow morning." So next morning we call and he says....oh, forgot to tell you, the front room shutter is not working. What a relief, we aren't dumb after all!</p>
<p>The Promenade des Angais is a paved pathway that runs all along the City of Nice, probably 5 to 7 kms. Lots of people walking, rollerblading and cycling. A separate pathway for the bikes and blades. It takes us 40 minutes to walk into the old town, " la vielle ville". It is so wonderful to be back in Europe and to enjoy the laid back lifestyle. Walk, stop for coffee/tea and a pain au chocolate and simply watch life going on around you.</p>
<p>While on the Promenade, we noticed some markings on the cement, with the wording Stade de Pilou. So curious about it, but no one around to ask. Good old YouTube. An ancient game played in France for centuries. They have an old coin which had a hole in the centre, then they attach feathers to it. A game played by two teams of two people, but not sure how the scoring system works. Basically hacky sack. </p>
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<p>During our first full day here in Nice, we walked to the city centre, then found the locations for both La Ligne D'Azur, the local bus line and Velo Bleu, the bicycle rental system. Bought 10 bus passes each for 10 Euro p.p. and bicycle rental privileges for the month for 10 Euro each as well. The way the bike system works is that the first 30 minutes are free and each hour beyond that costs 1 Euro per hour. There are 175 stations around town and 1,750 bikes. When we went to buy the velo pass, I asked the lady if she spoke english, so Robin could understnd, quite curtly, she said no. I then reverted to french, complimented her on her beautiful nails, which were laquered gold, then all of a sudden, dealing with a very friendly woman, who gave us a demonstration of the use of the bikes and a few secrets. Don't use the bike locks as the thieves have now figured put how to manage overiding the lock system and they are stealing the bikes. Also, if we are riding the bikes around town more than 30 minutes, check them in prior to the 30 minutes at one of the many stations, then check out another bike; then you are taking advantage of the 30 free minutes policy. nice to know, but we really can't be bothered. We have been avid users. Walk into the old town, spend a few hours there, then head back on bikes, which takes 20 minutes and costs nothing as is within the free time frame, although we have been on longer bike rides.</p>
<p>We get such a kick out of the rules of the restaurants. Having commented on the laid back lifestyle, when it comes to bars, restaurants and coffee bars, but they all seem to have some rules. You can only sit on a certain side if orderings drinks/coffee. If you are having a meal, then you are entitled to a better seat. Cannot order something to eat before noon....so, you just go with the flow. If we can't order lunch at 11:45a.m., guess we will have to order a glass of wine! </p>
<p>On our second morning here, I noticed some water on the kitchen floor, the water tank had a slow leak. We are told that the water in France is very hard and has lots of calcium in it and that water tanks are usually replaced after 5 years. Called our contact and he came over and had called the local handy man who lives in our same building and is a semi retired Welshman. They tightened the bottom of the tank which sits on a pedestal, then arranged to replace the tank the next day, which they did. One of the many things that can happen when you rent an apartment vs. renting a hotel room, but so much better having you own "home". Ken has a wonderful sense of humour and we have arranged to go to his local pub in the port on Sunday to watch a football (soccer) match. He is divorced twice over and says he has no intentions of getting re-married. He says he has lots of young girls here to date....he is 63. Left his last wife as she wouldn't retire here in Nice. Wanted to stay with her family in Wales.....go figure! </p>
<p>Seems every second day the street cleaning machines are out in front of our apartment, cleaning/ washing the streets. Nice is very clean. Another thing we have noticed, which will be of interest to our dog loving friends and family, is that the Jack Russell breed seems to be the most popular here in Nice....all very cute.</p>
<p>The day the hot water tank was being replaced, seemed to be a good time to visit one of the surrounding towns and disappear for most of the day. We caught an early bus, transferred at the port and visited Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. Only 10 km. from Nice, but on a very windy road along the coast with great views of the various harbours. Did a walk along the Chemin de Lido and the Chemin de la Carriere, about 9 km. in total. Walked around the town, then stopped for our first feast of "moules et frites" ( mussels and fries). Yummers! What more can you ask for, fresh mussels and lots of them along with sitting on a deck watching the going-ones in the harbour. Great day! Back to Nice and then bikes back to apartment. We will go back as we still want to visit the Rothschild villa.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SpyVogD73PU/UYaewRV3i4I/AAAAAAAAFNc/lJCVHOe1KPI/s1024/Photo%2525202013-05-02%2525202%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SpyVogD73PU/UYaewRV3i4I/AAAAAAAAFNc/lJCVHOe1KPI/s500/Photo%2525202013-05-02%2525202%25253A03%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238887.3154" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="375"></a></div>
<p><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">Went to the local market in Nice, which takes place every morning. Food vendors are there till around noon, but several of the flower markets stay open all day. The flowers are absolutely beautiful. We have bought fresh vegetables, meat and herbs here. Also bought some fresh olives and tapenade. Would like to buy some fresh fish one morning, just have to get over the fact that they still have their heads on.....think if I ask politely, they will take the head off for me.</span> </p>
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<p>On Saturday night we took the bus into town and ate at La Tapenade, a small restaurant tucked into one of the very small side streets of the old town. Started off with a salad, which had 3 small phyllo pastry bundles filled with chèvre (goat cheese) and apple and the salad also had bacon strips. We shared this appetizer and very thankful that we did. This restaurant's portions were very large, which came as a surprise, considering portions here in France usually tend to be on the smaller size. Robin had Magret de Canard (duck breast) in a cranberry sauce and I had Lapin (rabbit) in a onion/olive sauce. Everything was delicious, hope the readers aren't salivating too much! Thanks to our son Rich and daughter in law, Lisa for a great recommendation. Decided to take the bus back home due to the late hour. Fewer buses at night and ours was packed, took a circuitous route and was accompanied by a car in front of the bus, which had two security police in it. Needless to say, kept my purse close at hand. We have been warned several times of pick pockets in the busy areas, train station and buses. </p>
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<p>Spent the afternoon on the beach. Not sure how much reading Robin did; as there was a young woman going topless nearby! Great weather so far, low 20's. Petrol is about $2.50 per litre Canadian and constant line ups at the gas stations. Would not want to have a car here as lots of traffic and hard to find parking spots; and in any event not necessary with the great bus/train system.</p>
<p>At the restaurant last night, a Japanese couple arrived shortly after us and sat at a table, just a few steps from ours. The lady got up to get them menus, not sure why she didn't wait for service. Robin comments...." She isn't wearing a ring, and considering she went to get the menus, must be his Geisha....I wonder if she has an "obi" ( a sash worn by geishas, love the fact that he is using the words he has learnt while doing crosswords). O.K, <span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">my husband has been hanging around our Sister in Law, Brenda too much, something she would comment on! I couldn't stop laughing.</span></p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmE6DSGlRsweSw4ghPQy4RtNsSaICEh456lC2-xcLRbeuchRW5JkcVB7bur1P7jx1852ybMDdLjjxv0C22bra7TifyOKE5PbBAQPhRMgX8zOiOylwBrDX_qlK8BD3j5nSUl2t5OaSFs9N/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMmE6DSGlRsweSw4ghPQy4RtNsSaICEh456lC2-xcLRbeuchRW5JkcVB7bur1P7jx1852ybMDdLjjxv0C22bra7TifyOKE5PbBAQPhRMgX8zOiOylwBrDX_qlK8BD3j5nSUl2t5OaSFs9N/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238918.8728" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Belle Époque building in Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kL579_SQ0pk/UYaTaCWGESI/AAAAAAAAFI4/ylcT2oi-AIk/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kL579_SQ0pk/UYaTaCWGESI/AAAAAAAAFI4/ylcT2oi-AIk/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238929.4912" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F3jXrTioqKY/UYaTgpS8c7I/AAAAAAAAFJQ/UHhBZsmdq2A/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F3jXrTioqKY/UYaTgpS8c7I/AAAAAAAAFJQ/UHhBZsmdq2A/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238868.297" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Promenade des Anglais, Mice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z92_KyWStbA/UYaTgAGanZI/AAAAAAAAFJI/nY2kcmCQ4Ak/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z92_KyWStbA/UYaTgAGanZI/AAAAAAAAFJI/nY2kcmCQ4Ak/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238943.314" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking into old town, Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ldx2FlcoFE/UYaTgLCA6WI/AAAAAAAAFJM/k-iAzs4_ES8/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ldx2FlcoFE/UYaTgLCA6WI/AAAAAAAAFJM/k-iAzs4_ES8/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238871.2566" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Place Messana, Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5tSnQfMahNIKzhUF8dnOGoO1ila9bqOnK787zfqS1yePrwy44M2I0NXL5f7mVmju0b-vBtDYSu5cfprUq11LKch-KdDpDwASPZt_eUVHiAsgGIQIpXFjxBZfwlWwCJEvPwoei7WHsX8Z/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5tSnQfMahNIKzhUF8dnOGoO1ila9bqOnK787zfqS1yePrwy44M2I0NXL5f7mVmju0b-vBtDYSu5cfprUq11LKch-KdDpDwASPZt_eUVHiAsgGIQIpXFjxBZfwlWwCJEvPwoei7WHsX8Z/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238895.9792" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neptune's fountain, Plave Messana, Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7VHXOkOfVaU/UYaTnkYgaOI/AAAAAAAAFJo/8J1vVVXk6qU/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7VHXOkOfVaU/UYaTnkYgaOI/AAAAAAAAFJo/8J1vVVXk6qU/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238898.818" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lovely pedestrian street in Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QAiSYdGaF4/UYaTm38ouiI/AAAAAAAAFJk/qw8eLg1FjIU/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QAiSYdGaF4/UYaTm38ouiI/AAAAAAAAFJk/qw8eLg1FjIU/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238858.1343" class="" alt="" width="240" height="320"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An alleyway in old town, Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_kDatmIWN0/UYaTt2rD0YI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/Ge3hzdVAM_M/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_kDatmIWN0/UYaTt2rD0YI/AAAAAAAAFJ4/Ge3hzdVAM_M/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238869.382" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way back to our apartment in Nice, along the Promenade</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmRLM6Hqpwyx1MQsTL8TBJ7yspkgpqEczip_kytmNH0pingV_lCbcDm3VlNxvLGT-BZUdGN9FCMuXvrPLP3iSovsIgNyb9DXSECa35sv0uFv_39EwQlZWqbO8Ri7zHxA5UO5cbXd4AhHb/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmRLM6Hqpwyx1MQsTL8TBJ7yspkgpqEczip_kytmNH0pingV_lCbcDm3VlNxvLGT-BZUdGN9FCMuXvrPLP3iSovsIgNyb9DXSECa35sv0uFv_39EwQlZWqbO8Ri7zHxA5UO5cbXd4AhHb/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238951.4688" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Promenade</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8UUuQg2vPJUtFZGsiIcgxwDNpiT6DAtsdQguX4YBg1c5cKEI_dXP_wI9KHOwWeciZl8gUtx7Mbg91in7M03oWCU0xS1KDzguA0qdx10nnCc5gFZn29SOxtIXmuhdcSavdvwKfqeLpVych/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8UUuQg2vPJUtFZGsiIcgxwDNpiT6DAtsdQguX4YBg1c5cKEI_dXP_wI9KHOwWeciZl8gUtx7Mbg91in7M03oWCU0xS1KDzguA0qdx10nnCc5gFZn29SOxtIXmuhdcSavdvwKfqeLpVych/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238934.2778" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful wooden boats in the Old Port, Nice</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_J6YxlIJInU47bNVxh-1yZKGErlPzRRkhnblAhOzeqzd6Up1pw1R2lXuCpD-QWOxfKB4p30CPLo2bGMxr_pviDwSjQ9NQGTQCDnxa3b1xgNzbH1ST1wTY-Oeyy9zGb__FudiFtENzAHP/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_J6YxlIJInU47bNVxh-1yZKGErlPzRRkhnblAhOzeqzd6Up1pw1R2lXuCpD-QWOxfKB4p30CPLo2bGMxr_pviDwSjQ9NQGTQCDnxa3b1xgNzbH1ST1wTY-Oeyy9zGb__FudiFtENzAHP/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238959.074" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking into the hills from Saint Jean Cap Ferrat</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibanCLIwRdHVLLI8KdSq5Na6FTXy0YzXB756hSlPhM2e0dTUwqKr-E5jt72UCr2khGFJKSsNZPZVQ3mvX2Txk-sPWDMVRsY0rtEyxYa-4hJeqMxSw0QgUGYxbiJRM8-rkIS1wP5x2_bW2W/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibanCLIwRdHVLLI8KdSq5Na6FTXy0YzXB756hSlPhM2e0dTUwqKr-E5jt72UCr2khGFJKSsNZPZVQ3mvX2Txk-sPWDMVRsY0rtEyxYa-4hJeqMxSw0QgUGYxbiJRM8-rkIS1wP5x2_bW2W/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238957.9084" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chemin de la Carrieres, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwmHaJVTQRg/UYaT5qtI5OI/AAAAAAAAFKY/l09A3Nd8HXM/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwmHaJVTQRg/UYaT5qtI5OI/AAAAAAAAFKY/l09A3Nd8HXM/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238892.3228" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chemin</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asX4dDs2W34/UYaUFcpx_jI/AAAAAAAAFK4/TsJyPe7Rh9o/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-asX4dDs2W34/UYaUFcpx_jI/AAAAAAAAFK4/TsJyPe7Rh9o/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238912.0684" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Phare (lighthouse) Saint Jean Cap Ferrat</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--psxu7F0hR8/UYaUD9U0lZI/AAAAAAAAFKo/BbIMTClzg-w/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--psxu7F0hR8/UYaUD9U0lZI/AAAAAAAAFKo/BbIMTClzg-w/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238868.456" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire on the Chemin</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5GoNCJaGws/UYaUHxgob9I/AAAAAAAAFLA/Wo9ZEYL6u8Y/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=" " target=""><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5GoNCJaGws/UYaUHxgob9I/AAAAAAAAFLA/Wo9ZEYL6u8Y/s320/image.jpg" id="blogsy-1367783238913.3906" class="" alt="" width="320" height="240"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robin's dream boat</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-86080056719294204312013-05-01T10:50:00.001-07:002013-05-01T22:28:44.328-07:00First few daysHad a wonderful flight from Calgary to Amsterdam with KLM, which is an airline that still provides good service! Thanks to the wonderful herbal supplement "No Jet Lag", we functioned quite well on our first day. <br />
Of course needed a cup of green tea for Robin and a latte for Claire to get us going once we landed in Schipol airport in Amsterdam. We sat with a couple from Amsterdam while having our tea, and found out about local events and the economy in Holland. Of course their economy is suffering as is the remainder of most of Europe, but not as badly. The young gentleman indicated that some unrest in regards to the large number of immigrants in Holland, as they are taking jobs from the locals, or sometimes just living off government welfare. He indicated that some firms are also eliminating jobs or transferring the jobs to say Poland where rents and labour are cheaper. <br />
Having said this, people in Amsterdam were getting ready to party as Tuesday was the crowning of their new King, Wilhem-Alexander who was crowned after the abdication of Queen Beatrix. She will now be known as Princess Beatrix.....kinda sucks losing a title and being demoted!<br />
After a 3 hour layover at Schipol, we boarded the Thalys high speed train and travelled for 3 hours to Paris. Nice luscious countryside with fruit trees and flowers all in bloom. Arrived at Gare du Nord and the onto our hotel. Quickly freshened up, then hit the walks of Paris. Walked down to the Seine, over Pont des Arts and back through side streets to our hotel, walked about 9 kilometres. <br />
The Pont des Arts bridge railings are filled with thousands of "love locks". This a the phenomena of couples buying a lock, inscribing it with their names and a message, then throwing the key into the river, which signifies their everlasting love, as no one can then remove the lock. Kind of makes you wonder what happens in cases of acrimonious split ups? Does one go in the middle of the night and cut off the lock, or use white out/paint and put the name of your new conquest on the lock? <br />
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Stopped for tea at a restaurant along Saint Germaine des Pres.....gotta love Europe.....5 Euro for a cup of tea, which seems to be the standard price, yikes! Out for an early dinner by French standards, about 7:30 p.m. On Tuesday night out at 8:30 p.m., a little more civilized. After looking at our bill our second night in Paris, understand the total cost of eating/drinking out. Total tax on our bill was 26.60%, which is included in the price of the food and the service tip is on top of this! <br />
Tuesday saw us walking about a total of 16 kms. Left the hotel and walked about 6 km. to the Musee d'Orsay. We had bought tickets prior to coming to Paris, but still had to wait about 15 minutes to get in. This was nothing like the line for those without pre-purchase; they must have waited for at least an hour to get in. <br />
Claire's family will remember the beggars on the streets of Paris from a few years ago; always a young Gypsy woman with little children. Guess times have changed.....now seeing single men with puppies. Does this mean that the general public has more empathy towards dogs than children? And one asks why I have a hard time sleeping at night with all these questions!<br />
Today, Robin rented a Velib bike. Very easy to rent with the exception that you can't seem to rent two at a time from the same credit card. None the less, just an experience. Will try again in Nice, as they have a similar bike rental system. <br />
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Some of our observations to date. A lof people still smoke here in Europe. We were wondering, if there is a higher percentage of pulmonary disease and lung cancer in France as compared to Canada? See, another question to keep me up nights?<br />
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Also, they don't seem to adhere to rules here; maybe we are wrong, maybe they are just suggestions. At the Musee d'Orsay today, couldn't help but notice the big signs that indicate no backpacks and no cameras. As good little adherent Canadians, we checked in our backpack and put our camera away in the galleries. We did take pictures with the I phone(does that count?) of the wonderful clock in this refurbished train station now museum, as well through some of the windows.....o.k....maybe not adhering strictly to the rules, but a lot better than most people. They were taking picures in all the galleries and the guards didn't say anything till some crazy person used their flash and gave everyone away! My nieces and nephews will get a kick out of this....maybe I just should have said "shame on you" !. Sorry everybody, a family joke. <br />
The Musee d'Orsay continues to be one of our favourite museums as we both love impressionist art. So much to see here it is overwhelming. We were here over 20 years ago and it was nice to return. <br />
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Today we enjoyed crepes for lunch after the museum, then crossed over the Seine with a walk through the Tullieries Gardens, then onto the Champs Élysées where we stopped for a late afternoon aperitif. The weather here in Paris has been cool. The locals say that normally would be 20 C and we had 14-17 C these past two days, with a few showers on our second day. Trees and flowers are in bloom. <br />
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Trying to sort out the link to pictures, please be patient.<br />
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Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7999005368025194850.post-61707926563338905962013-04-26T17:04:00.001-07:002013-04-26T18:34:10.792-07:00PrologueOn April 28th, 2013, we are leaving Calgary to spend two months in the south of France (Le Sud de France). <br />
Although we just got home after spending three months (Jan, Feb & March) in Palm Desert, California, one would understand why we are once again "hitting the road" after seeing the following picture of Robin back in Calgary on April14th, 2013. <br />
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<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">We are flying into Amsterdam, then catching the Thalys (high speed train) from Schipol Airport into Paris, which takes three hours. A couple of days in Paris, then the TGV to Nice which takes about 5 1/2 hours. If a</span>nyone has travelled by high speed train you will know that this is a very comfortable way to travel. Very efficient, quick, smooth and comfortable. It is only when another train passes, that you realize how fast you are really going. The average speed of theTGV is up to 320 km/h (200 mph).<br />
We will be spending the month of May in Nice, where we have rented a 1 bedroom apartment in West Nice, just a block from the beach and Les Promenades des Anglais (a walkway all along the Nice beachfront). <br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kLxTsLOnNgE/UXW7DeCazXI/AAAAAAAAFDE/CBgCH_n5zqQ/s1024/Photo%2525202013-04-18%2525203%25253A17%252520PM.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="312" id="blogsy-1367020560602.299" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kLxTsLOnNgE/UXW7DeCazXI/AAAAAAAAFDE/CBgCH_n5zqQ/s500/Photo%2525202013-04-18%2525203%25253A17%252520PM.jpg" width="419" /></a></div>
Then in June, we will travel 6 hours further west and spend the month in a two bedroom gite in the town of Mazamet, one hour north of Carcassone, an ancient walled city.<br />
While in Mazamet we are expecting Robin's sister, Suzanne and her husband Colin, who live in England, to visit for a few days. Also Claire's sister-in-law, Brenda will be spending the last couple of weeks with us. Then the three of us will fly back to Amsterdam where we will be doing a bike/barge trip of Northern Holland for a week. We will be joined by Brenda's youngest daughter/our niece Molly for the bike tour. After the bike trip we will all spend 3 final days in Amsterdam, then back home on July 9th.<br />
We are looking forward to this latest adventure and hope that some of our friends and family will join along vicariously, by following this blog !<br />
If you wish to get automatic notifications of our updates, <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> subscribe to our blog by using the Follow by Email option at the bottom of this posting. Enter your email address and click the corresponding "Submit" button. Alternatively, simply check back on the link in our original email notification of our new blog. </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Robin will also be posting a link on his Facebook page when we update the blog.</span><br />
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Have also placed a link on the bottom of this blog for our India/Nepal blog in case you are interested.<br />
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Robin and Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10382160431423240276noreply@blogger.com0