Exploring Europe 2013: South France

Avignon is a fortress town. It drew our attention as soon as we pulled into the station. It used to be a castle/cathedral where many popes were elected and ruled. The placed we were staying is just inside the old walls of the castle. We are staying with mom and dad so we have a two bedroom apartment with a great living room and kitchen. The building is 600 years old but is in way better shape than most places 50 years old in Vancouver. It had 14 feet ceilings and a gorgeous view of Palais de Pape.

Once we were settled in, we walked to find food and got a quick introduction to Avignon. Its pretty small and had a ton of smaller store to buy groceries. We stocked up for the next few days, especially beer and incredible fresh French bread since is was so inexpensive. We spent the evening at our place, we all loved the feel of our 3 day home.

Day two we took the train to Arles for a day trip. It was only 15 minutes by train, and even smaller than Avignon. The layout of Arles is really unique. The center of town has a coliseum that was built by the Roman Empire and they still use it to this day! Although now it is for bull fights and they have added bleachers inside. There are any other ancient ruins, including an old amphitheater that they still use today! They have a stage and lights set up in it, but the old seats and structure. I really loved how they have used and preserved the ancient runs at the same time. We had 8 hours between our trains and probably could have finished in 6. The town is really small. Fortunately it gave us the opportunity to take out slow with coffee and gelato breaks. Another thing that brings (especially artsy) tourists, is that this is the hometown of Van Gogh. They have a ton of painting replicas and exhibits for people to visit, including the old hospital in which he spent time. It was a sunny but windy day so we were constantly back and forth between sweater and no sweater. I'm so glad wee took this day trip.

Originally we had planned to rent a car and drive around France the next day, but it really didn't work out. I can't complain through, we spent the whole day actually seeing Avignon. We got to sleep in and make French toast in our apartment. Then we walked to the Pont d'Avignon and Palais de Pape to explore the castle grounds. Jordan faced his fear of heights on the highest ledge on the castle wall and still lived the tell the tale. We found the perfect French Cafe to eat lunch and sat enjoying the sun (which we would loose in Paris). To end our exploring we walked through the castle gardens and cathedral. After dinner we started packing up our things as we were leaving early on the train the next day. We loved how relaxing our days in south France were and got ready for the fast pace of Paris. It was really good to see my patents and be around some family. We were all excited for Paris, the train rides was gorgeous and riding first class didn't hurt either.