Monday, September 17, 2012…..we were off to Nice, France! We decided to use Nice as our ‘home base’ as we explored the shores of southern France…known to many as the French Riviera!!
However, before I share some pics of our stops on this leg of the journey…YES….that is Bud looking over the fish market and making more friends along the way!!! So right along the alleyways of the city….there you suddenly are ‘gill to gill’ with the catch of the day:)!
Now, there were a few other delightful food options, too:
However, nothing will ever beat those beloved freighter BBQ’s:
Well, except possibly….a French ‘candy market’……this was a fun find!
By the way, we have also seen some beautiful spots! To capture just a glimpse of France’s charm…here are some favorite highlights along the way…
Cannes….
Yes…..those are the actual steps to the Cannes Film Festival but minus the red carpet! Of course being the typical tourist that I am…..I could not resist snapping a pic of Meg Ryan’s hand print ( just watched Sleepless in Seattle for entertainment on the freighter!)
St-Tropez lies between it’s famous port and the hilltop Citadelle with magnificent views:
Today we journeyed to the fairy tale city of Monaco. Of course, this is the spot where Grace Kelly became beloved, married her Prince, and then tragically was killed in an auto accident on one of the beautiful roads majestically lining the mountainside. Known for its Monte Carlo Casino and Grand Prix race through the streets…..it is truly matched by its breathtaking harbor. Take a peak …..
Of course, it was the kids that really stole our hearts!! They were adorable as they were being prepped for their first ‘sail’! We were almost positive that we could see a flashback to ‘Carebear Days’ (our daughter) and there she was in her pigtails getting ready to ‘man’ one of the sails….. Perhaps you can spot her:)!
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Off for some shut eye… as VERY early tomorrow morning we catch a train for Lyon and then on to Annecy, France, and a glimpse of the French Alps!
As you can see, Bud has already beat me to it….oh, my..if he knew I posted this:)! Shhhh….let’s just make this our secret!!
Oxleys' Adventures 
Karel/Bud – Lyon will offer some of the most wonderful food in all of France! If your stay there allows try one of the small French bistros. It is also the home of one of the most famous chefs in the world – Paul Boucse. The French Alps are wonderful – will you take the TVG from Lyon to Paris? Wish we were with you……we are enjoying and savoring each minute of your wonderful adventure.
Love,
Gail and Gene
We are now headed on our first overnight ‘compartment’ train to Padua!!
Beautiful trip you are having. I enjoy seeing your pics and your narration is fantastic. Miss you guys – have a fantastic time. Laurie
Thanks, Laurie!!
On our way to Padua, Italy on an overnight ‘compartment’ train!!
All our best!
Bud and Karel
Karel & Bud,
I’ve followed your journey all the way. Until now I’ve not sent a comment….can you imagine- VERY DIFFICULT for me to do!!!!!
I’ve really enjoyed seeing so many sights (that I’ve seen….and some I’ve not) through your eyes! I love the South of France all along the Mediterranean. But what really intrigued me was your mention of Annecy. Oh my gosh, my favorite place in France. I fell in love with Annecy….It’s quaint, charming and enchanting!!! The canal, iron bridges with beautiful flowers, the arcades with cobblestone walkways,.all with the backdrop of the Alps is indescribably scenic. Magnifique!!! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did….take lots of pictures! Also it was a great place to practice my French, the people were so accepting & understanding of my efforts to make myself known.
Au Revoir…….Joan Bowden
JB –
So GREAT to hear from you!!! You were so RIGHT…Annecy was a delightful charmer!! I now understand fully why you enjoyed it so much!!!
Thanks for following along Bud’s #1 Bucket List fantasy..freighter life:)!!
Sure hope that your health is holding!!
All our best!!
Bud and Karel
These pictures bring back wonderful memories. What a perfect spot for your home base.
Bud and I were just discussing all of your travels!!
Thanks for following along!!
Hope the Breakfast Club group is doing well…
Miss all of you!
So enjoying your photos and travel descriptions. Glad the seas haven’t been too rough. Know you are enjoying being on land and seeing all the sights of France for a few weeks. Thanks for your note. Hugs to both of you!
I enjoyed ALL of your photos. Looks like your “great adventure” is moving right along without a hitch. Thanks for the update and enjoy every minute!
Sure do enjoy your pictures and narrations. What a well deserved vacation for you both. I can’t believe you would miss the cabbage roll dinner tonight. lol
Have a safe journey.
So great to hear from you!! You have brought a huge smile, as we think about the delicious cabbage rolls!!
Miss you!
Bud and Karel
Karel & Bud…I am SO enjoying your blog and pictures! I always look forward to it being updated! Have a wonderful time in Europe!
Elaine… So kind of you to follow along!! Hope all of the fall BASa work is going well….
Give my LOVE to all and hope Kirk is ‘behaving’:)!!
We’ll miss you at the Fall Conference next week!
Hope all goes well!! Give my love to all!
WOW What an adventure!!
Thanks for following the journey!!
Love the pictures and comments… so happy for you guys….You are many nautical miles away from the Soggy Dollar Bar…loved the Tshirt Bud has been wearing! So glad to hear you have been having smooth sailing most of the time…Au Revoir,,, Madame Bettina and Monsieur Mark