Aix en Provence and Cassis

We had a fantastic day visiting Aix en Provence and Cassis. Lots of walking and taking in the local culture.

Our first stop in Aix en Provence gave the opportunity to have a bev in a little cafe after walking through several markets and stores. Such beautiful vegetables. Artichokes and asparagus, and tomatoes of all colors. I picked up some goods at a stand with lavender products, and some nougats at a shop where the owners were so friendly, and gave us samples from huge slabs of nougat. After our drinks, we walked through the garment market - so tempting, but I already brought too many clothes, despite many attempts to cull down the packing. We met at the Hotel Saint Christophe, whose managers were kind to let us visit the facilities.

Driving through the countryside, we stopped for some pictures, and we're treated to France's version of the Blue Angels practicing, including red, white, and blue smoke.

We then went to Cassis where we had lunch. Wayne had moules & frites, while I had mozzarella and tomato buckwheat crepe. I also had a glass of their local wine which was quite tasty.

On the way back to the ship, we drove around Marseille, stopping at Notre Dame de les Gardes. Outside is a Pieta that was even more moving to me than Michaelangelo's.

Back at the ship we had dinner at Los Lobos. Nick appeared, having tracked us down. He scolded me for not calling him to say goodbye - he showed me a picture of his knitting- quite impressive. I felt like a proud mama. I described how he could make a cowl out of the piece, and told him I'd send some instructional downloads.

And then... Packing.Read more