Paul is in France

MAGICAL MOMENTS IN FRANCE- Reflections of a lost aussie in France

2008-10-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

Biggest Surprise - How friendly the french people are. How beautiful France really is
Biggest Problem - Learning the french language. The Paris Metro
Favourite Cities - Bordeaux, Chancelade, Grenoble, Rennes, Paris.

A city I could Live In - Bordeaux or Rennes or Paris
Magical Moment - Music Day in Aix En Provence, Flying in the cesna
Favourite Food - Frommage, Fondue, Baguettes,flemnkuche

Favourite Drink - Red Wine and more red wine
Embarrassing Moment Breaking Steffs Toilet, Flooding Jean-Pierres bathroom
Favourite Dogs - Tattoon, Oxo, Kelly and Nina.... all great dogs

I wish I could - Speak french properly i destroyed the french language
Biggest Mistake - Exploring Paris without a map - excuse emoi je suis perdu
Likes - The french people, french food and french wine

Dislikes - seeing street people without homes, spitting
Funniest person met - Jean Luc, he is such a great man
Most beautiful cities - Bordeaux, Rennes, Lille, Carcasonne,

Paris people are - so friendly
Next time I wont visit - Nice as the people were unfriendly, great beaches though
French girls are - so gorgeous

Most dangerous moment - the drunk guy who approached un Bordeaux and was a bit crazy
I was scared when - I got lost in the metro in Paris
Most annoying moment - Losing my train ticket

Most outgoing people stayed with - Anne, Jeremy,
Happiest Person - Francsoise
French or Australian food - french but i do miss vegemite and tim tams

Biggest Surprise - making so many new french friends
Favourite french words - merci beaucoup, Ja na com pon pa, hou la la,
Best discovery - french cheese, french wine, french music

Magical moment - teaching high school students english with Virginie
Favourite photo me in a laneway taken by Martine
Something broken - Steffs toilet seat in Toulouse....sorry Steff

Something new bought - french movies and music
I didnt like - steak tartae, snails and frogs.
Greatest scenic view - Chammonix

French people are - so helpful
My biggest problem - getting lost, always having to look for toilets, losing my phone
Typically french - baguettes, crossaints, scarves, cheese,

I was scared when - William took me around Paris in a cesna...my heart was pounding
Funniest Moment Number 1 - Jean-Luc putting the nets over his tree
Funniest moment number 2- Michel not seeing the flying fish in his pond

Favourite french sport - football
Something I couldnt do - speak french properly, climb the eiffel tower
Favourite monument - The Eiffel tower

Someone I would love to see in Melbourne - Jerome, Jeremy, Eric, Gael, Bruno
The worst thing about france - sometimes its crowded and it can be expensive
The best thing about France - the people, the wine and the food

Favourite small town Chancelade, La Marillais,
I should have brought more - vegemite, warm clothes and tim tams
A place I want to visit again - Paris, La Marillais, Bordeaux, Claudines house.

Best advise given to me - Dont worry if you get the french wrong when you are speaking
Something french I will take back home - music, posters, movies
Best party - Claudines beach party

Best Festival - The music festival that Jean-Luc and Gaby took me to
best Concert - Perpinnan in the old cstle
Charming Towns, Chancelade, St Emilion, Carcassonne, Chammonix

Guardian angels - Martine, Michel, Jean Luc, Gaby, Christine, Menez family and William
Jerome, Laura, Anne, Melinda, Gildas, Eric, and many more
A city I would like to revisit - Lyon as I was sick while I was there

Best weather in France - Nice, Marsielle
Coldest Cities - Periguex, Boulogne- I swear there were icebergs in the water at Boulogne as it was freezing cold

Most rain seen - Boulogne, Bordeaux
I got lost in - oh please...too many places...mostly in Paris and Perpignan
My hero - All the hosts and french people who took care of me.
I am proud of - The perfect french that I can now speak - oh please well I try.

Biggest heart - Martine, Christine, Jean Luc, Jeremy, I learned to - Love France
Wealthy people live in Aix En Province, Nice, Monaco, Arcachion
I felt sorry for - the homeless people and the people who listened to me speak french

I had trouble with - the euro, the metro, the french language
New friends made - so many - Steph and James and heaps more
Old friends revisited - Virginie and Gildas, Melinda, Laura, Eric and Jerome, William, Romain and Christelle

Nicest Children - Claudines family Vincent and Carolines baby Clement
Supermarket mistakes - Not weighing the fruit, getting soup and soap mixed up
It was special when - I taught english in a french school- great students

Most scenic drives - Both Christine and Martine took me for some lovely drives
Best Bike Ride - Gaby and Jean Luc took me riding beside a river and through towns
Will I come back to France -yes of course, next time to live

Biggest Regret - Not staying longer in France
Best present given to me- French Calendar of french towns from Thierry
Something that amused me - The water really does turn in the toilet bowl in a different direction;

I missed- my dogs, my family and my friends.....in that order.
I didnt know- that the french are such proud people
Best building seen- The Eiffel Tower

Advice given to aussies travelling to France- Learn a bit of french before leaving
Favourite french celebrity - Bernard Menez....hahaha he is the only celebrity met
Favourite french movie - Amélie

Thankyou to all my friends not only in France but also in Switzerland, Morocco, Portugal and Spain who took such great care of me throughout my journey. Its been the most amazing trip. Thanks heaps and please come and visit me in Melbourne

Back to Paris and Houilles

2008-10-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

It was sad saying goodbye to Gildas and Virginie who have become two of my really close friends in France. They are both really special people and they took such good care of me. I loved teaching english to the French high school students.

Anyhow Jeremy greeted me with his usual positive and vibrant personality and straight away I met his new housemate Nicola and a whole heap of couchsurfers. Its always great to get back to Paris and knowing that I only have a weeks travel left makes it all the more special.

We sat around drinking some red wine and talking about our travel experiences and I met a couple of couchsurfers from mexico and also a german and french couchsurfer. I spent my first day walking around Paris and I agaian visited the Eiffel Tower and I walked beside the Sienne River which is beautiful. Paris is such a great city and a guy in the metro let me use it for free as he couldnt be bothered helping me to use the ticket machine. hahaha what a great guy.

I made my way by train to Houilles where Vincent, a mate collected me from the train station. He is such a great guy; I really appreciated him and Caroline hosting me as they were in the middle of moving into their new apartment. Anyhow my first day I spent looking around Houilles and I met their friends Julian and Emmaline who are such
great people. I also met Carolines father Thierry who is the most lovely person. It seems like a great city and it was so great to finally meet Clement. Wow what an amazing baby. So happy and playful and always giggling and smiling. Caroline and Vincent are so good with him. Those of you who know me well know I am not a baby person, but you look at Clement and he makes you want to have children as he is so adoreable. Yes I even held him for half an hour when I was with Emmaline and he is such a cute kid. I tried to help a bit with the move and I packed some boxes and also carried some into the new apartment. As most of you would know I hate manual work and I spent most of my time making Vincent and Julian laugh. Thanks heaps for the three days of fun. Also Thierry bought me a book showing photographs of all the little villages in France. Wow its such a good pressent and Vincent gave me some more french music.

Now to spend my last dayw with Jeremy and Nicolas who are both choked up with colds at the moment. So I went out and bought some fruit juice and fruit for them.

Lille, Bethune, Calais, Arras and Boulogne

2008-10-06T02:04:00.000-07:00

Finally I got to travel to the north of France and Stefan met me at the Bethune train station. He is such a nice guy and so helpful. He took me to his house in a town ajoining Bethune and we had a surprise reunion for Virginie, Gildas and Virginie who I hadnt seen since Melbourne some time ago. It was so great to see them again and Stefan is such a good cook, we had the most delicious dinner.

Finally I got to travel to the north of France and Stefan met me at the Bethune train station. He is such a nice guy and so helpful. He took me to his house in a town ajoining Bethune and we had a surprise reunion for Virginie, Gildas and Virginie who I hadnt seen since Melbourne some time ago. It was so great to see them again and Stefan is such a good cook, we had the most delicious dinner.

The following day Stefan took me to Calais which is a coastal port and we went to Sangatte which is a beach where Gildas does his windsurfing. It was so so gusty and very cold. Then he showed me around Calais and later on him and Virginie took me out for lunch. They then showed me around Lille. What an amazing city with such old buildings and friendly people. I know that I loved Rennes and I think Lille is equal to it as far as beauty goes.

Later on we called in and saw Gildas at his fire station and I got to meet all of the firefighters. I sat in the truck and chatted with all the guys who were all so friendly. Gildas is such a nice guy and Stefan and Virginie were so great to me in showing me around everywhere.

The following day Gildas picked me up after having a sleepin and he took me to Arras which is also a scenic city. We had the best kebabs on earth and even though it was freezing cold I enjoyed seeing the town. Then we drove to Boulogne where I Gildas and Virginie live in a caravan. I stayed in an old farmhouse that belongs to Virginies parents. I love their old dog which looks 100 but is probably only 15. So gorgeous.
The rain and the bad weather has set in and I swear I am frozen solid. hahahaha

Virginie took me in to the school where she teaches and I gave somes english lesson to the students who are 16 and 17 year olds. I talked about Australia and also about my life there and I spoke about my travels within France. It was so cool and Virginie's supervising teacher was so lovely. A great experience all around, as the students were so attentive.

Ive just been amazed with how nice the french people have been towards me and I have really loved my time here. Its going to be sad for me next year when I return back to Australia.

Rennes-Mont St Michel-Saint Malo

2008-09-27T05:36:00.000-07:00

It was really sad for me to leave Portugal as the people were so warm and friendly. But going to France is always a delight for me and I just love Paris. My headcold is getting worse. I think maybe I caught it from Jakub, who I travelled with. hahahaha Also I have the added problem that the bed bug bites seem to getting worse and I feel like the elephant man as they are so itchy. Melinda gave me some oil to put on them but I just feel bad about them and I may have to go to see a doctor. Hopefully one who can speak english.

I caught a train to Rennes and my friend Melinda met me at the railway station. Wow what a beautiful city. Straight away she took me to see a special exhibition at Les Champs Libres. It had all of these old fashioned games which we played and also it had a special exhibition of the worlds spiders and also showed photographs from a famous french photographer of people around the world. It was great to arrive and to see this straight away.

We then walked the streets of Rennes, which I have to say is one of the most beautiful cities in France. We eventually ate at a creperie. I ate a galette with ham, cheese and egg as well. It was so tasty. I also had the local cola which I liked as well. The Rennes people seem to be so friendly as it is a university town and it has such good vibes about it.

The following morning Melinda took me to the local flower and food markets. They were so colorful and her brother, Maxime was working at the markets so I got to meet him. Melinda said my french has improved, but maybe I dont agree as I still have the aussie accent. Its great to see Melinda after first meeting her in Melbourne and then again in Wellington. Her apartment is brilliant and full of small tokens of her travels. I also bought some french movies today and Melinda will burn some music for me.

I cant stop thinking about how friendly the french people are in Rennes. They seem to be smiling all the time. Probably they are laughing at the way I use their language so poorly......hahahaha Anyhow I took a bus to Mont St Michel which was really stunning. I had a crepe with sugar there, which is traditional for this area...just delicious. I also took some great photographs along the way.

Then I travelled to Saint Malo which is where Melinda my friend was born. It is a really magnificent coastal town and I met some great German and British backpackers in the hostel. We cooked dinner together and we stayed up chatting. The following morning I walked along the beach into the old city which is so historical and really gorgeous. I think I could easily live in France. I caught the bus back to Rennes, which is now one of my favourite places in France...along with many others.

Porto and Braga

2008-09-22T02:16:00.000-07:00

The bus ride to Porto was scenic but this young portuguese girl stole my seat when i got off to have a cafe and i knew why she had done it. There was a noisy baby behind her so she took my seat deliberately to get away from him. When i asked her to move she refused so I took her seat and luckily the baby slept the whole way.

Upon arrival in Porto I had hassels finding the hostel and I met a few not so friendly people and also a few very friendly people as well. Its all part of the journey. Finally upon arrival at the hostel I met a few backpackers who were really nice.

I met Jakub from Poland in the hostel and we had some dinner together and we spoke with Max from Austria. Anyhow Jakub was going to Braga the following day so I arranged to go there with him. It will be good to see another city in Portugal.

We set out the following day and Jakub showed me around Porto. Wow what an amazing city. We went up to the cathedral which had the most amazing views of the city. Then we went across this bridge which had stunning views of the city of Porto and also views of the river. It was very beautiful. He also showed me a really nice park where I took heaps of photographs.

Then we went back to the train station where Jakub bought our tickets for Braga. I let him do the talking as he speaks spanish which is similar to portuguese. He has been living in Madrid. The train ride to Braga was really scenic and we talked the whole way. He told me many things about Poland and also the second world war.

Upon arrival in Braga, we went through the city centre. It has beautiful fountains, gardens and cathedrals. It also has the nicest old buildings. We then caught a bus out to this cathetral called Bom de Jesus Monte. It had amazing views of the city and the gardens up there were just beautiful. We talked heaps up there. Jakubs cold seemed to be getting worse and I seemed to be catching it, as I was sneezing heaps by the end of the day. There was a storm brewing so we decided to catch a train back to Porto, which was a good decision as there was a lot of lightning and thunder.

The whole way back in the train wee watched the rain falling down and upon arrival we used the internet cafe and then caught a bus back to our hostel. On the bus we talked to some lovely italian people who were stayiing in our hoste. Once back at the hostel we had a drink with Max and the Italians and also a guy from Prague. It was a great day of travel. Jakub is such a nice guy and very thoughtful and I hope to see him in Melbourne some day soon. He is so organized and heaps of fun to travel with.

The following morning I saaid goodbye to Jakub and the two spanish guys who we shared breakfast with. It was a cold day and raining heavily. Last night I had a dormitory to myself. No snoring to keep me awake.

The following day I walked around the city with Max from Austria. A really great guy, and so easy going. It was great to spend the day with him and we had a few beers beside the river. Life is sweet. The old buildings and the beautiful bridges make this town so so gorgeous. Max is coming to Australia soon so it will be so much fun to host him in Australia.

Spent a restless night in the hostel in Porto where this british guy snored his head off. It was so so bad. The worst I have ever heard and it kept everyone awake. I had breakfast with three really nice spanish backpackers and then hit the road. I walked around the coastal area of Porto and then caught a bus into the city centre. Its jusr a stunning city and im lucky as my last day here and its so sunny and hot.

Lisbon, Portugal

2008-09-14T05:36:00.001-07:00

The night bus ride to Portugal was long and noisy as there were a couple od drunks on the bus and they were singing African songs. I met a nice guy named Pedro from Uruguay on the bus and he was great to talk with. The longer we were in the bus the drunker the african giy became but he was funny as he had everyone cracking up.

When we arrived in Lisbon we spoke with Daniella a girl from Argentina and we caught the metro into the city. The three of us ended up sharing a room in a hotel together. We went out to explore the city togther and we went up to this beautiful castle which had the most amazing views of the city. I liked Daniela and Pedro very much however i felt a bit out of it with them as they spoke spanish alot and I couldnt understand what they were saying. I liked the sound of their voices even if I didnt understand them.

Lisbon is a wonderful city and thee people were so so friendly while i was there. I then travelled to Oeiras. The people working in the hostel were so friendly. It wwas great to just hit the beaches and to meet other backpackers. I mett Benny and Huilya from Germany who are just lovely. We drank a bit of beer and had many funny talks as well as taking many photos of them having their surfing lessons. I also met a great Japanese guy and a chef named Lewis wh Portuguese.

How friendly are the portuguese people. The answer is extremely friendly and they are always smiling. I lovee tthem very much and yes you guessed it I will come back to Portugal for sure. I just love it here. The beaches are clean, the people are genuine and lovely and its been great to meett other travellers here.

Benny and Huliya are a big part of why i have liked it so much as they are gentle people and always laughing and smiling. As well I have met two nice turkish backpackers named Esra and Efie and a German girl named Annette.

I went to Marias house for dinner. To get there I had to catch a ferry from Lisbon across to the other side. Maria and Manuel made me so welcome. Straight away I knew they were lovely people. Maria cooked me a delicious meal, and it was fun to talk with them. Their daughters are so beautiful and it was really great to see a portuguese family in their home. Their apartment is gigantic and i asked Maria to come to Australia to decorate my house. I liked hearing the childrren talk in portuguese. I think both Maria and Manuel are the perffect parents as you see the love and fun that they have with their children and its so so nice. Maria and Manuel gave me a lift back to the hostel.

The next day it was so sad to say goodbye to Benny and Who as they have become good friends and we have spent many hours together. The time we shared was full of laughter. Even if you did let my book geet wet Benny when the tide came in at the beach, you are forgiven. I also liked meeting the turkish girls and Lewis the portuguese guy. I couldnt help but feel really sad as i left them.

The journey continues and for some reason I keep meeting the best people. I will never stop travelling as it is so much more fun than always staying home in Meelbourne. Sure I do miss my dogs, family and friends a lot but its also important to make the most of your life.

Ronda and Grenada Spain

2008-09-14T05:36:00.000-07:00

It was with great sadness that I left Morocco. I really didnt want to leave and I was reluctant to leave. I met Leah and Vince from Sydney at the wharf area and I spoke with Leah and a moroccan guy on the ferry over.
I just about cried when the ferry set sail as all i could think about were the many great friends that i had made in morocco.

We arrived in Spain and caught a train to Ronda. It was pouring with rain when we arrived and we took shelter for almost an hour. Then we went and found a pension to stay in. The guy in reception was really friendly and I enjoyed trying to learn some spanish from him.
I went out to explore the town which has a beautiful gorge and bridge with stunning views. I liked it very much. I met a nice new zealand girl who was travelling with her english boyfriend. The hotel room was really nice however later on i waas to find out that it was full of bed bugs. My first ever experience with them. I liked Ronda very much and would have liked to have spent longer there as the peeople were so friendly.

The next morning when I woke up I decided to head to Grenada. Grenada is a beautiful town and I liked it very much. Unfortunately I had been bitten by bed bugs and I had marks everywhere. The hostel I stayed in was a bit dodgy as it had these african hanging around outside offering me drugs all the time. But they trurned out to be really nice people: Because of all the bed bug bite marks I felt like I had the measles and I had an early night. I walked thee streets even at night exploring all the alleyways and also the various cathedrals as well. Grenada is a sttunning city and i liked it very much.

I decided the next day to head to Portugal. It was a split minute deecision and its one of the things i love about travel, that you can headd anywhere you like

Tangier

2008-09-08T05:29:00.000-07:00

Wow my time in Morocco has gone so quickly and I am so sad to be leaving this beautiful country. Along the way I have made so many good friends and its been a really exciting journey. I love the people, the food and the lifestyle of the Moroccan people.

The journey from Chefchaouen to Tangier was really scenic and I sat next to a nice Moroccan guy who couldnt speak much english, so I had to speak in arabic. Oh please, there is no way I can speak arabic. I found a cheap hotel and immediately went out to explore the town. I liked it straight away, except fot the Moroccan guy who tried to steal my camera out of my bag in the market area.

I really liked the beach area and also the market area. Because it is Ramadan the cafes and restaurants are closed for most of the day and the Moroccans sleep much later and stray out much later into the night. In the hotel I met Svanti from Sweden, Bruno from Brazil and Ziggy from Israel.

All really different in personality and all really great people. I also met Amine and another really nice guy also from Morocco. I spent a lot of time with Bruno who is studying law and also Svanti as well. It was so much fun to explore the city with them and to see the sights. Below is a picture of the ferry I will be taking to get to Spain but to be honest I dont want to leave Morocco.

Akchour

2008-08-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

I would have to say that my journey to Akchour would be one of the highlights of my Moroccan journey. The rif mountains are just beautiful and the drive there was just amazing. It was good to spend my time with three great Morrocan guys.

I met three really nice Moroccan guys named Anas, Youssef and Tariq in the hotel I was staying in, and they are all really easy going. Anyhow they suggested going to Akchour which is a beautiful place in the Rif mountains. Hamza, another friend had told us how beautiful the mountains are.

The scenery was stunning and so beautiful.Anas was the driver and he did a really good job as we often stopped to take photos.

Upon our arrival, we trekked up to the waterfalls seeing these big monkeys climbing the rock faces along the way. We followed the track beside the stream and it was gorgeous. We had a young guide who was a bit quiet as the guys argued with him about a fair price.

Then after this we trekked to this bridge, which I think they call the Bridge of God. It was a steep climb and a hard slog but we did well to keep stopping to take in the breathtaking scenery along the way. We joked about a lot as we walked through the mountains.

Chefchaouen

2008-08-25T05:53:00.000-07:00

The drive to Chefchaouen was so scenic with beautiful landscape. I met two really nice New Zealand girls on the bus who were both a bit sick and also a Moroccan family who kindly fed me and talked and smiled at me all the way there. I went to a hotel with the two new zealand girls but it was so crowded that I opted not to stay there.

The scenery we passed on the bus to Chefchaouen was really amazing. Morocco is a very beautiful country. What amazed me more was that all the passengers on the bus slept for the journey, and they missed the most brilliant scenery. It was mind blowing.

At first sight Chefchaoun looks very beautiful. Its a town in the North of Morocco that is surrounded by mountains. Very beautiful indeed. At first I had trouble finding a hotel and everyone came up offering me Marijuana. One guy gave ma a really hard time. Oh please, all I wanted to do was find a hotel to sleep in for the night.

Finally I found a cheap hotel, about ten aussie dollars a night and I went out to explore the city. Very beautiful indeed. I met Hamza, a young musician staying in the hotel and he is very friendly and also very talented on the guitar. He can play many spanish tunes and he is so talented. I promised him that I would send him some blues music from home.

All the streets and laneways are painted in blue and white. The Moroccan people here seem very chilled and everything is very relaxed. I met a lovely Italian couple named Silvia and Andreas who are travelling around Maroc on a motor bike. Very nice people.

In the hotel I also met a great Australian couple named Darren and Jessie. Very experienced young travellers who love surfing and love life. I so enjoyed listening to them and sharing travel stories. They are surfing their way around Moroc and it was so cool to meet them. They might visit me in Melbourne as they love the AFL football.

I also met Hamza, Youssef, Tariq and Anas in the hotel who are really very sincere and helpfull morocan guys. I also enjoyed climbing the hills with Tariq and Anne from France even if we did go the wrong way and also the hard way. The views of the city were amazing. Anne I still think those bees in the cafe were killer bees. Anne was amazed with how scared I was of the bees but I swear that they were as big as elephants.

Fes

2008-08-22T04:42:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Fes and the first thing that hit me was the heat, memories of Marrakech. It was so so hot. Anyhow I walked from the railway station in search of a hotel and after about seven tries I finally found a hotel to stay in.

The hotel staff are very friendly. The hotel owner is named Mahamed and he is always smiling. Khaled is the guy who works in reception. Ask him any geographical question and he will astound you with his knowledge. I have enjoyed watching the Olympics with them and also chatting to them about Morocco.

The people in Fes are very friendly and staying in this hotel I have met many Moroccan people. The more I learn about Moroccans the more I see the warmth and friendliness of the people. I like the way the people here say welcome to our country and they are so nice in the way they speak.

I visited the medina and a local guy showed me around for a little while. The medina is cool as it is situated in tiny alley ways and it is great just walking up and down and getting lost in them. The people seem a little shy in Fes and havent got the aggression showed by the people in Marrakech. Below is a girl reading from the Keran and the King of Morocco, King Mahamed 6.

Meknes

2008-08-17T05:27:00.000-07:00

Once we arrived in Meknes I found out I was staying at Zeyneps with everyone. Zeynep is Saads grandfathers second wife and she is such a nice person and so funny. We sat around talking for ages and her house is very beautiful. We also met an elderly neighbour of Zeyneps.

What I loved was that Saad and Billal both listened and talked to her with respect and humour as she told them about her trip to Mecca. I like the way Moroccan people treat the elderly as they seem to enjoy being in their company. Its really beautiful to see.

Later on Zeynep made us couscous and it was so delicious. I have taken some photos of it as it looked and tasted so good. I like Zeyneps laugh very much and I like the way she gives Saad such a hard time in a fun way of course. I also love the way Billal and Saad give each other such a hard time in a friendly way and you can tell that they are very good friends.

Saad then took us for a guided tour around Meknes and he showed us the Royal Palace and we also watched a Moroccan wedding parade which was amazing to see. The city of Meknes is smaller than Rabat but is full of charm. The people are so friendly here and they smile when they talk with you. Its very beautiful.

I managed to buy Zeynep and Mina small gifts and I will buy Bilal and Saad an aussie present each when I get back to Australia.Later on we ate yet again. I cant believe I have met such amazing Moroccan people and my whole perception of the Moroccan way of mife has changed completely. Travel is all about meeting the locals and this is what I have managed to do in Morocco.
Posted by Paulistravelling at 5:01 AM 0 comments

Rabat to Meknes

2008-08-16T05:01:00.001-07:00

The following day Mina picked me up in her car with Bilal and Saad and they drove me to Meknes. The countryside we passed through in the 185 kilometre drive was very stunning and so so beautiful. Saad and Bilal were still giving Mina driving tips and still making me laugh.

As you can see the countryside is very beautiful. Its really stunning.

Rabat- the city of beauty.

2008-08-16T04:35:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Rabat and found that the bus station was way out of town but luckily some local moroccans told me that I could catch a local bus into the centre. I arrived safely and found a hotel to stay in. Rabat has a nice feel about it and straight away I could tell the locals were friendly.

I phoned Bilal a friend I had met in Marrakech and later that night he took me around Rabat. The top end of Rabat has very wide avenues with beautiful trees and a beautiful fountain. In some ways it reminded me of France. We had coffee in a cafe that was really nice. Later on still we sat in an avenue and we talked more.

The next day Billal took me through the Madina which was great as the Moroccans here dont try to sell you things then after this he took me for a walk beside the river and to the Oudaya which is an old fortress and it has beautiful gardens.

Then he took me to the Rabat beaches where at first we sat up near the walls and drank coke as it has magnificent views of the city of Sale and also of the coast as well. It was so good as we talked alot aboit life in Morocco and also the different customs. He is such a great guy. Later on we stolled along the pathway beside the beach where we passed cafes and a carnival as well.

We then went to a cafe where Bilal bought me lunch and I had tagine vegetables. His friend Saad arrived and he also is a really great guy and we went for a walk. We met up with Bilals mother Mina who is just lovely. She took us to the big mosque but because the king was arriving they got everyone out of the area. We also went to see some Romaan ruins but unfortunately that was closing as well. Later on we went to a beach and strolled aong a path in the fresh night air.

Afterwards we went to a restaurant where we ate brochette, which is a big plate made up of different meats. It was delicious and it was great to eat Moroccan food yet again. Afterwards we went for a walk in the area. I am so lucky to have met Bilal and Mina and Saad. I loved the way Mina drives her car and both of the guys would give her directions and she would ignore them both. It was so so funny and it made me laugh so much. Saads voice is funny and sounds so good. This family is very special and have been a great part of my journey.

I have really loved Rabat and that is because of Bilal, Mina and Saad as they were all fantastic towards me. Rabat is a very beautiful city and next time I come back to Morocco I will visit Rabat for sure. Parts of it have a french feel to it. The locals are just lovely and friendly as well.
Later that night Bilal told me that they would take me to Meknes the following day.

Casablanca

2008-08-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

Okay so I arrived safely in Casablanca. The first thing I expected to hear was the famous line from the movie Casablanca, Play it again Sam, but unfortunately I didnt. I found a hotel near the bus station and I quickly went out to explore the city. The staff in the hotel are so friendly and I have enjoyed very much chatting with the older Moroccan guys who run the hotel.

Casablanca is a really busy city with lots of hustle and bustle. I like the vibe of the city as it seems to be very trendy and very unlike the more traditional Moroccan towns I have visited so far. My stomach has been a bit dodgy with the Moroccan food so it has been good for me to have some western food for a change. I have enjoyed eating the moroccan soup very much. I love all the cafes and restaurants that line the wide boulavards and streets.

Casablanca also has nice parks and gardens and its great to have a place to retreat to when the fast pace of the city starts to get to you. The Moroccan people here dont harrass you like in Marrakech and I like this. They usually leave you alone. This is something I really like about this city.

Many of my fellow travellers have told me not to visit Casablanca as they said it is too industrial but in a way I am so glad I didnt listen to them as I like this city very much. The people seem to be much gentler here than in the other cities. Maybe its my imagination but Casablanca sends out a positive signal to me.

I visited the gigantic mosque which is amazing and I met some very friendly italian people there who are on a ten day tour of Morocco. I walked to the mosque without eating or drinking so by the time I got there I was hallucinating so maybe the mosque appeared bigger than it really was. I think that I was in such a state that I imagined I was back teaching at school.......hahaha what a nightmare - kidding folks.

The parks and gardens in Casablanca are really nice and not what I expected at all. Everyone told me that Casablanca is very industrial as I said before but I think it also has a beautiful side to it as well. Also it is so much cooler then Marrakech and its good to have some cooler weather for a change.

I met a really great American guy who told me all about the dangers of Morocco. He was very sincere as he is Moroccan born and he told me that a few weeks ago he was held up at knifepoint. Hard to believe but he said it was true. His Moroccan mate was driving this van and it was pretty colorful so I took this photo. Many people tend to tell you the negatives about Morocco but so far it has seemed pretty safe.

I came across many mosques and this one I really liked as it was surrounded by beautiful gardens. Here in Casablanca its possible to sit in the gardens without getting hassled at all. I like the way you can walk down the street without being harassed.

The Moroccan people have been really nice in Casablanca and thats why I decided to stay longer/ Last night I met another guy in the hotel names Amine; must be a common name and he showed me around a bit. It was great as we could hear the song......I live in a place down under...... Its also good as now I have met a few really honest and helpful Moroccan people.

Some of the Moroccans just see tourists as an easy way to make money.... and while I understand why they do this... I hate it. Some of them become quite aggressive when you wont buy from them and they will pretend to be your friend with a hidden agenda which in the end is to get your money.

If it sounds like I am being harsh then so be it... but when you get ripped off because they think you are a stupid tourist then it does hurt and you do become aa bit sick of it. Of course there are many exeptions to the rule as I have met Amine in Casablanca and Amine in Marrakesh and Hicham and Bilal who are all honest and lovely people. I also really like the guys who work in the hotel here in Casablanca as they are such great old guys and lots of fun.

Safi

2008-08-02T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Moroccan mint tea has been so great and I love sitting in the local cafes drinking the tea. It seems to be men only and you never see women alone drinking tea. I met Leah an aussie girl who told me that travelling by herself is really a hard thing to do in Morocco as the Moroccans cant understand why a western woman would do this.

This is a photograph I snapped on the way to Safi. The bus full of locals stopped and I snapped away. Its important not to take photos of the muslim women and I have a good zoom on my camera so its advantageous.

Okay here we go on the Moroccan keyboard again. I went back to Marrakech again and on the way back I sat next to this lovely french girl and we chatted all the way back. Later on we went out for dinner and we had a nice moroccan meal. Fabiana paid for me which was really nice of her. Then we walked around the square listening to music together. Marrakech put on its usual heat and energy and it was amazing to watch the snake charmers and also the local musicians.

I slept on the terrace as it is a lot cheaper and cooler to sleep under the stars. It costs about 4 aussie dollars a night, which is very cheap. In the morning I made my way to the bus station not knowing where I would travel too. How is that for spontaneous travel. Anyhow I decided on Safi as it is on the coast. The bus ride there was great and it was great to fuinally travel with all local people. I took many photographs along the way and I am hoping they turn out well.

I boked into a dodgy looking hotel and Im hoping all my belongings are safe. The hotel manager was friendly but the room isnt the best. Its cold showers for me for the next few days and its on a noisy street. Okay I am heading out now to see the sights so I will add more soon. A bientot my friends.

Essaouira

2008-07-30T03:54:00.000-07:00

I travelled from Marrakech to Essaouira on the coast. It was about a four hour bus ride. I said goodbye to my Belgium friends and this local guy took me to a hotel.

Essaouira is a really beautiful city with many friendly people. The weather here is so much cooler as it is on the coast and the people seem to be very friendly. I booked into a really good hotel and I have a big double bed to myself.

I walked through the Medina and I had soup in a little Moroccan cafe with only locals. Very tasty and I like the way people smile at you all the time. I then went back to my hotel where I slept for twelve hours straight. For those of you back home, yes I still love sleeping.

The following morning I had breakfast in another small moroccan cafe and I enjoy very much eating with the locals. Its also so much nicer not to have tourists everywhere. I looked through the madina. I like this city very much as there isnt the same hard sell as in Marrakech. I also walked along the beach, which is very nice as well.

Paris to Morocco- Marrakech

2008-07-25T03:51:00.000-07:00

This is my moroccan mate Amine from Casablanca who I first met when I arrived in Marrakech. He is a university student and is a really good person.

I always ate at a local cafe in Marrakech and I tried to get away from all the tourists. The guy in the middle is the chef and the older guy on the right was the waiter who could speak some english. He would always say welcome my friend how are you today.

Okay back to the beginning. My last two days in Paris were fantastic as William let me stay in his apartment again and I had these beautiful views of the eiffel tower. I always love France and I think apart from Melbourne and Buenos Aires, Paris is my favourite city. I have even started buying the local cheeses as I love these and even at Mehdis apartment he bought lots of cheese for me.

On the flight over to Morocco I sat next to a really lovely french family who were so friendly.
I found a cheap hotel in Marrakech and the first thing I noticed was the extreme heat. It is so so hot. It was 44c one day and it was just amazing. For some reason I have enjoyed the heat and the crowds.

I have found the people here to be really friendly and they are interested in finding out about me. Many people try to do tthis for money which is annoying but you also do get the genuine people. Already I have had a few offers of accomodation.

In the hotel I am staying in there has been a large group of french students and I have enjoyed talking to them. This guy Adrien does some excellent sketching and another student Benjamin is very musical. This guy Romain, is a really friendly guy who smiles all the time and he is interested in coming to Australia. So I hope my family is ready for another visitor in the coming years as he is such a good person. I like talking to him as he practises his english and he teaches me some french. The students are all really polite and its been great to meet them. I have been sleeping on the hotel roof or balcony as it is cheaper and the rooms get so so hot.

The ladies in the hotel always practise their english on me and I try out my french but even the french students dont understand my french so I am doing something wrong. A Moroccan guy named Bilal helped me to buy some more french music and his mother also offered me accomodation. Bilal is such a great guy. I also met Amine and Hasham who are locals and also university students.

I have enjoyed visiting the Souk and seeing the snake charmers and the Morokkan dancing. I love the orange juices they make in the big square and I have visited many little cafes outside of the tourist area where I have eaten with the moroccan people. The Moroccan food is beautiful and I love the tanger poullet and vegetable.

Marrakech is too touristic for me but it has a charm to it and I am chilling out a bit in the heat of the day. I have visited the gardens a few times and I love walking around the old town and through all the little lane ways. The drivers are maniacs and I have already nearly been knocked down sixteen times.

My last few days in Marrakech were fantastic and I met many great moroccan people as well as other travellers in the hotel I was staying in. My last night there a group of us went out for dinner and we walked around the square together listening to music.

Bulle, Switzerland

2008-07-17T05:15:00.000-07:00

Katrina gave me a lift to Bulle which is a great little town about 30kilometres from Lausanne.
Its funny but its always exciting when you travel to a new place that you dont know much about.
I walked around the town a bit and then went back to the train station.

My mate Jonas who lives in the town met me in the train station and straight away took me to a Belgium beer bar where we drank a few beers with his mates. It was nice beer and great to sit outside in the sun. Then we had a barbeque with his mates by a lake and we drank some aussie wine. It was a really nice place to have a barbeque and his friends are all great people. Also we kicked a football around for a while.

Later that night we went back to the Belgium bar where we had many different types of drinks. There was one drink where you set fire to it and then you can hold your glass upsidedown and it sticks to your hand. This is a photo of his house mate Alex with a glass.

The next day Jaqueline, Jonas' mother took me for a walk beside the river. I was really hungover and wearing sunglasses but it was very good fun the night before. The walk was great and so scenic and it cleared my head for me.

Later on she took me to a swiss restaurant to taste some Swiss food and it was really delicious. Since being in Switzerland and France I have enjoyed tasting all of the local foods.

I met Matthew, Laure and Alex, Jonas' housemates and theay all made me welcome. Alex has the best laugh ever and he is so easy going. Matt is a musician and he is really nice and friendly. Alex made a great rocolette and it was one of the best things I have tasted in my travels.

Jonas was so good to me while I was there and he really looked after me. It was great because I got to see Flurin my last night in Bulle as he had broken his thumb in Japan and has returned for an operation so it was cool to catch up with him before leaving.

Lausanne, Chexbres

2008-07-12T23:24:00.000-07:00

I travelled to Lausanne with Stefan and Liah and the train journey was very scenic. I always have to sit facing the way the train is travelling so I dont get travel sick. I have enjoyed watching the people on the trains as they often bring their dogs along for the journey. In Suisse the trains are so clean, maybe thats why they are so expensive. The train ride wasnt so long and before I knew it, I was in Lausanne.

When I arrived in Lausanne I looked around a little and then Mehdi and Chicco met up with me. They are really nice guys who stayed with me in Melbourne, Anyhow they took me on a local train up to where Mehdi lives in Chexbres. It was a stunning ride as you feel yourself going higher. I couldnt believe my eyes as the views were really amazing.

The views of Lake Lausanne are great and it is just so beautiful here. I think I might choose this as a place to live...From Mehdi's loungeroom the views are fantastic and it is just mind blowing. You can see the lake and all the Alps as well. They took me out to a small cafe where we had some coffee and a storm blew in and it was really mystic. I also met Katrina, Mehdis girlfriend who comes from Portugal and she is just lovely.

Later on Mehdi and Chicco took me into Lausanne and we walked around the old part of the city, which is very beautiful. The town has an old cathedral and many old buildings as well. It was very quiet for a Saturday night and we grabbed some pizza to eat. Then they took me to a concert and we saw William White playing. The band was great and we got back home to Mehdis quite late. We had a few cocktails and Im not sure what Medhi put into the drinks but they were great. We stayed up chatting until 3am in the morning.

Chicco and Mehdi were just the same as in Melbourne and Chicco was always clowning around. When I went to bed it was pouring with rain and it was nice to go to bed listening to the sound of rain. Mehdi is really good as you can have really interesting conversations with him. Chicco mucks around alot but you can tell he is a really sincere guy and also sensitive. Katrina has taken good care of me with meals andletting me stay and although she doesnt speak much english, you can tell that she is a really kind and friendly person.

I woke up quite early and its still hard to believe that the views of the lake and the alps are so stunning. We had an easy relaxing morning and then Mehdi drove us all in to buy some cheese for some fondue for tonights dinner. The town we visited was beautiful and also the views were very stunning.

Then we drove back into Lausanne and we met up with Christian, a friend I had met in Darwin and lives in Zurich. He is a really great guy and we went for beers in a pub. We walked around town for a while and later on Christian came back to Mehdis for dinner, We had fondue. Before we had dinner we walked around the town of Chexbres and even though it was a small town it was breathe taking. The views from the loungeroom are of the mountains, lake and also the vineyards that sorround Mehdi and Katrinas apartment.

Medhi, Katrina, Chicco and myself all went to the Olympic museum as it was a cloudy and rainy day. It was really good as it has a history of sport and its a great place to walk around. Also we took the road along the lake which was very scenic.

This is us all outside the museum. It actually had some information about the 1956 Olympic games in Melbourne which was great. It was a cool museum as usually I am the first to get bored in museums but this museum told you lots of information about the Olympic Games and the different types of sports. Later on we went to a restaurant and had icecreams. The best in the world...

Mehdi and Kat took me for a beautiful drive to Montreux, which was having a big Jazz festival. It had such old biuildings and I was lucky enough to see a young Australian band playing. It was a really nice day as we walked around eating icecream and whats even better is that the sun has appeared again. Below is a photo of the Aussie band playing.

In Montreux they had pictures up of all the rock and jazz stars who have visited the festival.
Below are photos of Bob Dylan, B.B. King and also Queen as well. Also there is a photo of me with a statue of Freddy Mercury from Queen. We had a really nice day in Montreux and it is a very beautiful town.

My last day in Chexbres and Chicco showed me around. He took me to meet his lovely family and to also meet his girlfriend. Audrey is so friendly and a really warm person. She made me feel very comfortable and I enjoyed meeting her. This is Chicco with his mother.

I also liked the villages that we drove through as it nice to see a bit more of Switzerland. The photo of me is taken in the fields near Chicco's family house. He just clicked at the right time.

This is Chiccos car. Nice car and it was great to drive along in this except for when he was speeding around the bends. It was good fun though and I loved all the scenic views from the car.

Chicco also took me to the place where he is a tattoo artist and you just need to ask and you only
have to ask to see the tattoo he designed for me.

Basel, Switzerland

2008-07-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

It was so good to be back in Switzerland and it was like returning home to see old friends. Tamara and Stefan I travelled with in Argentina in 2003 and Kevin I travelled with in Turkey in 2000. They hae all visited me in Melbourne and now it was catch up time in Basel. When I saw them it was with great happiness as I know that they are all warm and sincere friends.

Basel is an amazing city and I loved every moment of it. We had many laughs together and they were all so cool how they took time to show me about. We talked about our travels together and our first meetings. Swiss people seem to have thie gentleness about them and they are so so polite. I like this very much. Stefan was really good to me and he spent so much time with me as he is on holidays. Thanks so much for this Stefan.

This is Tamara and myself having fun in a fountain after getting a bit soaked. We had just seen Kevin off as he was travelling to Austria. I felt like a little child in the water as it was such a hot day and it was so nice to cool down. I also liked the way that Tamara is such a caring person. She is really sensitive and I could talk to her for hours and also talk about many things.

We shared some good moments together drinking beers and this is where Kevin dashed off leaving me to pay the bill.....only kidding Kevin as it was Stefan who paid. It was so good of Kevin to travel to Basel to see me and to meet Stefan and Tamara. Its amazing as now I have met Kevin in Turkey, Switzerland and Australia and we have kept in touch for eight years. He makes me laugh a lot as he is travelling through Europe and his plans kept changing. I think maybe he changed his itinerary more than me.

Kevin's backpack weighed a tonne and Im not kidding I think he has a kangaroo stored away in it. I am travelling for six months and he is only travelling for three weeks and his backpack weighs heaps more than mine.

The trams in Basel are great and make me feel a little homesick for Melbourne. Not really but I liked travelling on them heaps. They are everywhere and you have to watch where you are walking. I caught many trams with Stefan and Tamara during my visit to Basel.

My first day in Basel and Kevin came in to see us. He drove all the way from Schmitten and it was so cool to see him again. Tamara's apartment is so colourful and of course Stefans apartment is like a second home to me now. Here we are on one of the many bridges in Basel. Stefan really made me welcome and it was great to talk to him about his music. I liked the way Stefan and Tamara just met Kevin for the first time and they all chatted as though they wer long lost friends.

Kevin loves his football team. I cant understand why as european football is nowhere as good as aussie rules football in Melbourne. I did like his car though, and it was great that he drove us up to a look out to see the night lights of the city. It was cold and windy at the lookout and myself and Tamara laughed as we were both freezing. I was also a bit scared of the heights but Kevin forced me to go up.....hahahaha only kidding.

The trams are amazing but I have to be so careful as in europe I am always looking in the wrong direction. Back in Grenoble I was almost hit by a tram. The tram driver gave me a big smile as she passed by as she knew I was taking photographs.

I walked around the city of Basel with Kevin, Tamara and Stefan and they showed me many interesting places. Its such a beautiful city and I would say it has to be one of my favourite cities in the world. It seems to be a really yound city although the area I stayed in, outside of the city centre had many older residents.

The buildings are so old and some are really colourful. I walked around with Stefan on my second day in Basel and I saw many great places in the old part of town. Then we met up with Tamara and we went back to her apartment and we had a beautiful Thai Green Curry. It was so great. Later on Stefan and myself caught the late bus and tram back to his apartment.

Tamara and Stefan you have to promise me that you will come back to melbourne as my family loved you when you were there last. The same applies to you Kevin as I think you spent much longer with me in Melbourne last time.

Tamara and myself on the steps in the old part of the city. It was fun to catch up and I'm sure we will catch up again, maybe in Paris. Pokwa pa (why not) We had many good talks while I was in Basel and she has promised to visit me in Melbourne. I'm holdinf you to that promise Tamara.

How great do the old buildings look. I loved the style of buildings that I have seen in both Basel Basel and Strasbourg as well. This used to be a part of the old city wall of Basel. Its close to the entrance of St. Alban. I loved this building and it was right near the Rhine river.

This is my favourite photo as it shows my three good swiss friends meetings. It would have been even better if I had been in the photo, only joking. The photo below shows Stefan, Tamara and Kevin with the Swiss cow in the city. I myself think a kangaroo would look much better but the cow is okay I guess.

Strasbourg

2008-07-08T00:56:00.000-07:00

Wow Strasbourg is such an amazing city. "Merci beaucoup chèrs amis pour votre aide et votre hospitalité! Vous etes tous des champions et bienvenue chez moi à ma Maison à Melbourne!!! Oui, c'était moi qui a écrit ces phrases!..."

From the moment of my arrival I have to say I was taken care of in Strasbourg. Eric collected me from the train station and then Jerome came around. I havent seen them since Darwin and it felt so great to see them again. We sataround talking and Eric cooked a nice dinner for us.

The next day Jerome showed me around the city and later in the day. We drank some beer in cafes and it was so nice to see the city with a friend. Jerome is such a great guy and really so so considerate and also a lot of fun to be with. Later on we met up with Thomas and his girlfriend Benedict who is very beautiful. We had some beers together and we talked about Australia as Thomas has just returned.

Jerome then drove me back to Erics where I met Frederique, Erics girlfriend. Wow what is it with french women as they are so beautiful. Frederique is so so friendly and I loved talking to her about travel. Eric is verz easy going andwe all had pizzas together.

The next morning Eric, Frederique, Jaja and I drove to a water hole and they went swimming. Then we drove to Eric and Jeromes home town of Schwindratzem, which I could say perfectly. I met Erics mama briefly and then we went on to Jeromes house which is really beautiful. We had a great dinner party at Jeromes and he cooked fondue for us. I think Thomas and Benedict helped him during the day.

Jerome is a special guy and so helpful. I really hope some day he stazs with me in Melbourne. It was good to see Pasquale and Jeremy and of course Thomas again as we shared many laughs in Darwin. The dinner party was sensational and Frederique got stuck talking to me in english all night....hahaha sorry Frederique. Later on I talked with Jerome for hours. He is so easy to chat with.

The next morning I helped Jerome to clean up a bit and later on Thomas and Benedict took me for a long drive through many beautiful villages and up to an old castle, which was amazing. I loved this and it was nice to see how beautiful this region really is. Thanks heaps Thomas.

Later on we went to a winery and sampled some wine. Jerome knew the owners and they were very friendly people. It had rained at the castle so I was still quite wet. Then later still we drove back to jeromes before heading out to a restaurant.

At the restaurant I tried some typical french food for this region. I got a bit upset when the guys paid for my meal as they really are such great guys and they are not in any position to do this financially. Thomas is just back from overseas and is broke and I was just a bit emotional about how great they have been to me. I sort of felt bad later on as I have really appreciated all of their help and company and they are all really all very special guys.

My whole Strasbourg experience has been brilliant and I have met so many french people here. It has to be one of my favourite places in France and I owe it all to Eric, Jerome and Thomas who are just unbelievably such great people.

Sorry that my french wasn't so good and Jerome and Eric thanks heaps for the accomodation. My house isnt as nice so when you come to Melbourne dont expect the same conditions. Jerome , thanks man for showing me around Strasbourg as it was an amazing experience and one I will always remember. Also Thomas, Benedict and Jerome thanks heaps for the nice meal and drive. Frederique thanks heaps for being so sensitive and caring ad also for helping me plan my Moroccan journey. Eric I look forward to seeing you again.

Jerome and Eric the beer and wine was so so good. Mz staz was perfect and will live on in mz memories for many years to come. Now its off to Switzerland. Eric took me to the railway station and I caught the train to Basel.

Lyon

2008-07-01T11:13:00.001-07:00

The train ride towards Lyon was long but very scenic, particularly in the early stages of the journey upon leaving Chamonix. I wished that I had stayed longer in Chamonix as it is a great place to chill and I met some nice people in the hostel where I stayed.

I arrived in Lyon and Romain and Christelle met me at the railway station. It was good to see them again as I hadnt seen them since their visit in Melbourne last year. The train ride had made me tired and it was nice to be around friends.

They took me back to their apartment which is on the fourth floor. It always seems to be that the apartments I stay on are on the top floor. Great fun when you are carrying your backpack. Christelle had dinner for us and it was nice to sit down and chat with them.

The following day I went out exploring Lyon and it is a beautiful city. I walked beside the river and then went to the information centre. They told me that I should see the Bastillica on the hillside and also the Roman ruins. So this is what I did. The ruinbs were good and the views of the city from the Bastillica were sensational although it was a decent hike and later in the day I felt sick. I think I walked too far in the heat of the day. Later I layed down in a park and went to sleep. I had a really bad headache which wouldnt go away.

Later on in the evening Romain, Christelle and myself went for dinner beside the river and then we walked around the town. It was really nice and very scenic. I love the old buildings of Lyon. It is a very beautiful city. The walk did me the world of good.

My last day in Lyon was really nice as I walked beside the river and I explored all the side streets as well. One thing that did happen and I guess its something I will never forget. I was sitting beside the river when a man leapt over the bridge. I was upset by this and as there were many people and ambulance there. I didnt hang around to see if he lived or died. I just hoped he was okay.

Annecy and Chamonix

2008-07-01T11:12:00.001-07:00

I arrived in Annecy and I was lost as soon as I got off the train hahahaha. Nothing ever changes. I walked along with my backpack on and I finally made it to the old part of town which looked very touristic but also very beautiful. These really friendly guys drew a map for me showing me where the hostel was located. I had to climb a big hill to get there which almost broke my back? I left my bags there and proceeded to explore the town.

I walked part way around the lake which is very beautiful but also very touristic. I sat down for a while just watching the lake and then walked back through the old part of town. The buildings are so old and so beautiful that it really makes you think that it must be one of the most beautiful towns in the world.

I met Carissa in the hostel and the following day we went out exploring the town together and we went up to see the old castle and church together as well as walking through the markets area of town. It has nice views of Annecy lake from where we stayed and it is a really lovely city to visit. Carissa is a really positive person and its good to talk with another traveller about her experiences. Also I met Dan and Natasha, two travellers from Canada who were really easy going and we had dinner and drank some wine together.

The next day I arrived in Chamonix. I arrived quite late and as it was a sunday the public transport had stopped running. Not knowing this, a drunk guy had told me to wait and that there was a late bus but after waiting for thirty minutes, I decided to walk up to the hostel. It was agonizing to climb the mountain with my bag back on. I swear I think I must be crazy sometimes to have even attempted this. This lovely swiss lady saw me struggling up the highway with my bags and she pulled over and gave me a lift. How nice is that? I wondered if French people would do the same. I would like to think so!

What a beautiful town as I walked towards the hostel I noticed the beauty of the area. So stunning and I love seeing snow as i havent seen it often in my life. Once in switzerland and ince in Berlin. The following morning I awoke early and over breakfast I chatted with a mother and daughter from Norway. The girl had had an accident and fallen down a hill resulting in stitches and cuts to her head. The mother told me that when she saw her daughter rolling down the hill she thought that the girl would be dead.

I then did a bit of a trek by myself and also walked around the town of Chamonix. This is my type of town and I loved it there very much. It was a shame that I couldnt stay longer as it is beautiful to see a town surrounded by mountains. I met a lovely Australian couple at the railway station and we talked about travel for quite a while. They had just travelled to South America so we talked about our travels there.

Grenoble

2008-06-26T01:10:00.000-07:00

What a surprise when I arrived in Grenoble. I wasnt prepared for the friendliness of the Grenoble people and I guess I would have to say this city has been one of the highlights of my journey through France.

The train trip to Grenoble was long but scenic as it took me back around the coast and there were some stunning sights along the way. This old lady sat next to me and she attempted to teach me french. hahaha I didnt realize but I had to change from the train to a bus and I didnt have a clue where to go. Just when I was starting to panic, the little old lady appeared and gestured for me to follow her. She took me to the bus and she sat next to me. She is my hero. What a beautiful thing to do.

Grenoble seems like a great city and I stayed in a park for a few hours before Anne returned home. Her apartment is beautiful and Anne loves to travel so we talked and talked and she taught me some more french. What a cool girl and so lovely. She cooked me a nice dinner and we sat out on the balcony and ate. We talked about France and Australia and also about Africa.

I met an american girl named Susan when I went up in the cable car to explore the Bastille and she was so so great. We chatted all about travel which was fantastic and Susan was eversmiling. We walked around exploring the town and we encountered many smiling french people.

Later on in the night we went past Chambery and to a little village called Chignin. I met Aurelia and Olivier who are heading to Australia next week. They were lovely and we went for a quick walk to see the surrounding area of the town which is surrounded by the french alps. It was a late night as we chatted so much and I loved listening to their french. Aurelia cooked a delicious meal and its so nice to experience so much french food. Olivier was funny and he has the best laugh ever.

The following day I arranged for Aurelia and Olivier to stay with my sister in their house in Melbourne. They live in a National Park so it will be a sweet experience for them. Aurelia came and collected me and we went to Villard de Lans. It was very beautiful. Wow what a great time I have had in Grenoble and the surrounding area. I cant thank Anne enough for the time and care she took in showing me around, and eventhough she was busy with work she spent so much of her time with me. Thanks heaps Anne and I hope to see you and Nicholas in Australia.

Aix En Provence to Cannes and Nice

2008-06-23T05:35:00.000-07:00

On the bus I sat next to a beautiful french girl named Julie who is studing to become a french teacher. She was lovely and she taught me more french with another student names Liza. Both very beautiful women. They wrote down some french musicians for me and also listed some french movies to watch.

I arrived in Nice and it was extremely hot. Finally found a backpackers and it overlooked the city of Nice as it is very high up in a mountain. Lovely views and great people staying here. I met Jennes from Berlin, Penny from the UK and Manos from France. Menos will represent France in the Olympic Games later this year in Athletics and he is such a nice guy.

We sat up talking about our experiences in France and we had some wine together. Jennes loaned me his book on Morocco so that I could write down some information as I will head there soon. Penny is on a world trip and I will meet up with her later in the year in Melbourne.

The following day I went swimming at the beach for most of the day. Beautiful clear water and it was so nice to just have a relaxing day at the beach. It wasnt the main beach so it wasnt so crowded. In France something that amazes me is the way french people on the beach will come and put their towels right beside you. hahaha they dont seem to like their space like aussies do. The people in Nice havent been the friendliest. They seem to be sick of tourists and they dont seem to smile very much. Not sure why this is as they live in a beautiful city, have lots of sun and amazing beaches. I even had a guy mimick my poor french in an internet cafe. At least I do try to speak french, even if it is poor.

In the hostel I met many great French people including Jean-Pierre who is a great guy and we talked a lot and drank some wine together as well. He was staying in the same dorm as me. I was telling him all about couchsurfing. The following morning I caught a train towards Grenoble.

Aix En Provence

2008-06-23T05:30:00.000-07:00

I caught a bus to Aix en Provence, which was very beautiful. I stayed in a hostel that was hosting spanish secondary school students and I got to play table tennis against them and I also got to know the teachers as well. I walked around exploring the streets and met two nice German guys named Henning and Tobias and also a girl from the USA named Grace.

We went out to see lots of live music and it was a relaxing time as we also listened to music while relaxing in the parks. I also got to visit casis which is just gorgeous and I loved this area very much. I had the dormitory to myself for two nights which was just great as it wasnt so expensive. Aix En Provence is a beautiful town with many trees and many old buildings. I loved it very much.

Marseille

2008-06-18T12:13:00.000-07:00

The train ride from Perpignan was eventful and as usuaul I met many good people. I met two guys and a girl and their dog. Their names were Matthew, Porpoise and Lulu. Anyhow they were the most friendly people. They offered me some wine, which I gladly exepted and they told me that all three of them live in tents.

They were heading to Marseille for a holiday but they didnt buy train tickets. Anyhow I sat with them and they were just so nice and you could tell that they were very special people. Unfortunately the ticket inspector came on board and he fined them 60 euros each and 15 euros for the dog as well. They were so nice I felt so bad for them but they all laughed and said they wouldnt pay the fine anyway.

My fist impression of Marseille was that the people werent so friendly however I couldnt have been more wrong. I made my way to Jess and Rafs apartment and I think my backpack may have lnocked a french woman as she was glaring at me. The people on the tram could have moved down a bit for me to make room but unfortunately I was stuck in the doorway blocking peoples paths.

Finally I got to meet Jess and Raf, who are such great people. Their apartment is really nice and they made me feel very welcome. I sat up talking to them and jess made me some dinner.

The next day I set out very early to explore Marsielle. I had the best day possible as there was a special photography exhibition on showing different people from different countries and I loved it very much. It was in the wharf area which is just beautiful. Later on I watched the beach volleyball, wow the french are good at this. Later on still I explored the streets of Marseille taking many photographs along the way. I met a couple of french tourists who lived in the next town to Gildas parents so I told them all about my travels and they seemed impressed. They were very nice people.

Perpignan

2008-06-15T01:19:00.000-07:00

Romain's mother Fransoise met me at the railway station and although she doesnt speak English and my french is still bad we were able to communicate. The town looks amazing and as I had met some locals on the train I thought that the french people in this town would be friendly.

Fransoise is such a lovely lady and she drove me to her house in town. She has two cats and a gorgeous little dog named Kelly who reminds me of Monty. Her house is so so nice.

I spoke with Romain and Christelle on the telephone and then Fransoise took me to a music talent concert in an old castle. Wow it was amazing as the young french singers had such amazing talent and the music and singing was beautiful. Clement, the son of a friend of Fransoise was in the competition and I sat watching with the whole family. They cheered and clapped when he went onto the stage. They also had a Cabaret act on and it was such a brlliant night. We got back at about 1 am in the morning and I loved every minute of the night. I forgot to mention Fransoise showed me around the Castle which was beautiful.

The following day I walked around Perpignan and walked up all the alley ways exploring the city. I found a Moroccan market which was very colourful. Then I continued on and finally managed to walk back to Franoise's house. She took me to the beach about 10kms away and we went down to where the boats were anchored and also to see the foreshore. Also we walked out onto the pier as well and spoke to a fisherman. Kelly, Fransoises dog came with us and was really active in running around. Not like Montie and Mollie who are getting old.

It was sad to leave Perpignan as I liked Romain and Norbert's mum very much and although she couldnt speak english and I couldnt speak french we managed to understand each other and have a laugh. She was so so good to me.

Carcassonne

2008-06-15T01:07:00.000-07:00

I travelled to Carcassonne by train. I met this great french guy Alec, at the Toulouse Railway station and he is a musician. As it turns out he was sitting near me on the train and we chatted the whole way. He grew up in Nepal and now lives in Carcassonne. Anyhow he showed me all around town when we arrived and he was such a down to earth guy. I finally walked to the youth hostel which is inside an old castle. Wow it looked so amazing and is a highlight of my journey. I walked around the castle and some of my photographs should be amazing.

The people in the hostel were so friendly and I shared a dorm with two canadian guys. I also met a couple of other really nice Canadians there as well. Anyhow I had dinner with many travellers before taking a night walk around the town.

The next day Alec met me and we went to the local makets to buy fruit and vegetables for his grandparents. He is such a great person. Then went back to the hostel where I spoke to a Japanese guy and he walked with me to the alway station.

Unfortunately my train was cancelled but I couldnt understand the french, so I had to exchange my ticket which caused a few anxious moments but eventually I caught the train to Perpîgnan in the south of France. I sat next to the most beautiful girl I have ever met in my whole life and she spoke some english. hahaha Im in love in France. Just kidding, she was really nice and very helpful.

The train pulled into Perpignan and I wondered what adventures lay ahead.

Toulouse

2008-06-11T03:42:00.000-07:00

I left Nantes by train and made my way back to Bordeaux. I had such a great time up North with Gildas family taking good care of me. The highlights being many but staying with his parents in a small country french village was brilliant, cycling beside the river and heading to a music festival was another highlight, staying with Claudine and her family annd seeing a french family in their day to day life was another highlight and of course the beach party was great fun as well. It was with sadness that I left the North.

Finally I arrived back in Bordeaux and I mer up with Steph and James who were just the same happy and friendly. I walked around the city a little lore to have one last look at it and I had a great talk with Steph. She really is a special person.

The following afternoon I boardered a train heading south to the city of Toulouse. I had heard many good things about Toulouse from friends so I was feeling quite excited. I arrived at the train station and I walked to Steff's apartment. Her apartment is very beautiful and set out really nicely. She sleeps in a sort of loft and I love the layout of her apartment.

Later that night Steff showed me around Toulousse. Wow she really knows her city and it is so so beautiful. She knows a lot about the history of the city and also she took me to see some beautiful places. We walked beside the river and down all these narrow streets. Toulousse is a university town so it has a good vibe to it. Later on we had these beautiful pizzas in a little cafe and Steff talks a lot about french people and the french culture which is good for me.

Plaine sur mer to Nantes to Ancenis to Le Marillais

2008-06-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

I walked around Nantes looking at all the sites before catching the train to Ancenis. A nice lady on the train told me where to get off so that I wouldnt get lost. Jean Luc was there at le gare to meet me and he drove me to his maison in le Marillais. I met Gaby, Gildas mama and they both made me feel so welcome.

Their maison is very beautiful and straight away I felt very at home in their house. Their cat "puss" took an instant liking to me. They have a beautiful big garden in the back yard and many vegetables growing in it.

That night Gaby cooked me a beautiful french dinner and I drank wine which was so beautiful. The french hospitality has been so great and te people seem always to be excited to meet an australian. It was nice to meet Gildas parents as I got on so well with him in Australia. As it turns out I am sleeping in Gildas old bedroom. I didnt realise he was such an athelete and also rode motorbikes as well when he was younger.

The next day Gaby and Jean Luc took me bicycle riding. First we rode through their little village of Le Marillais. I saw a little church and it is such a sleepy little village. It is great. Then we cycled to Nicole and Pierrot maison which is also beautiful. Nicole speaks some english. We then rode our bikes along side the riviere la loire which is one of the biggest rivers in France.

The bicycle ride was scenic and we passed churches and an abby on a hill. It looked fantastic. We crossed over two big bridges and we went to Varades where we saw a festival which was all about the conservation of the river la loire.

Later that night we went to a musical festival which was brilliant. It had people flying through the air playing violins and was unreal. It also had a great deal of street music with a parade and it was so much fun.

Nantes to la Plaine Sur Mer

2008-06-05T10:49:00.000-07:00

I arranged to meet Gildas sister Claudine in Nantes and as I couldnt understand her when we spoke on the telephone I wasnt really sure if I was catching the tram in the right direction. hahaha yes I am always lost.

Finally I found the swimming pool where she works and I met up with her. Claudine is so so nice and she has a smile as big as Gildas. She drove me 50 kms to her home near the ocean where her and her husband and three children live. They were all so friendly and welcoming and straight away I liked all of them. Her husbands name is Jacki and her children are Carmela, Niels and Phillipine. They all made me feel at home and Jacki cooked me a beautiful dinner.

Then we went bicycle riding through the little town and along the coast. I played a bicycle racing game with Niels where I pretended it was Australia racing against France. Me against him, but I lost!

Its such an amazing area. I felt a bit guilty as Niels gave up his bedroom so I could sleep in it.
The following day Claudine took me to see the area and along the coast. It is so beautiful but unfortunately her car broke down with a flat tyre and this french guy pulled up and helped us. So nice and so friendly.

Claudine then took me into Nantes where we saw this museum which displayed artistic and creative designs that were so amazing. The huge walking elephant made from wood and wires was incredible and I took some good photographs.

I had lunch at the swimming pool with Claudine and the children. A couple of the swimming instructors came out to talk to me in english. Its funny but I miss speaking english with my friends back home and it is difficult to learn french.

Then walked around the town of Nantes seeing the sites. Lots of statues and lots of art. It looks so amazing. It is so so beautiful and old.

Back to Bordeaux and onto Nantes

2008-06-05T10:30:00.000-07:00

Martine and Alice took me back to Bordeaux where James cooked us a beautiful meal. It was so delicious and spicy as well. Then we took a walk around Bordeaux together where we encountered this drunk guy who was really quite aggressive towards James. It was good that I couldnt understand what the man was saying in french. James handled the situation well.

We went to a cafe for drinks and it was nice sitting out in the sunshine. I met Kirk a friend of James who worked in the cafe. Then we walked down to the river and it was so beautiful.

It was sad to say goodbye to Martine as she has been so nice to me. She has taken me to so many places and really taken care of me. Also Oxo is just the best dog and I felt really emotional to say goodbye to him. I felt like crying. He must be the most intelligent and beautiful dog in the world as he has such a great nature. I waved goodbye in the street to Martine, Alice and Oxo.

James and Steph took great care of me and I felt at home in their apartment. They have so much energy and I like them heaps. James is so bubbly and Steph is so beautiful, she just has warmth oozing out of her. I loved seeing their photos of India. I also caught up with Pia, a german friend of theirs who is teaching in France. She has the most amazing smile which is really beautiful.

I bumped into Ane Sophie, a friend of Lauras the following day and she invited me to her friend Gaels apartment. It was great to sit and drink cafe and then I said goodbye to Ane Sophie and I stayed at Gael's for lunch and he cooked garlic chicken. He would have to be one of the nicest guys I have ever met as he was so interesting to talk to. It would be great if he came to visit me in Melbourne as I liked him so much. I liked the way he is so open and for such a young guy he is so honest about his feelings. Ane Sophie is also lovely as well and I hope to catch up with her also.

The following day I caught the train to Nantes, which was a task in itself as I couldnt understand the french announcments on the train and I was worried that I was heading in the wrong direction hahahaha. It all worked out well as this young guy started to chat to me about Australia and a girl sitting opposite joined us as well.

Leaving Perigueux

2008-06-01T00:36:00.000-07:00

I have really enjoyed meeting and staying with Martine et Michel in their house in Chancelade. They have given me the opportunity to meet many friendly french people and shared their home, food and wine with me. Martine has taken me to many fanstastic areas around the Perigueux region including Les Eyzies, Beynac and Domme. So many beautiful castles, churches and amazing old buildings.

The highlights for me have been many. I loved playing football with Remi and Mathies the two sons of Stephan and Anne who are friends of Martine et Michel. I played football twice with Remi, until we kicked the ball into the pond and it was lost forever. Michel was worried we would destroy his tomato plants, but to be honest I couldn't see any tomatoes growing on the plants anyway. Mathies did a great job teaching me how to count in French. Also meeting Sebastian, Stephanie and Lola and Viviane has been so great.

I love Martine et Michels dog Oxo. He is so so gorgeous and he has the nicest nature you would ever see. I loved the way he follows me everywhere and he is so cute. I think I could easily take him back to Australia as he has become a highlight of my french adventure.

Seeing the big fish jump out of the pond has also been a highlight. Its so funny as I saw the fish jump out of the pond four times, high into the air. Every time Michel looked he missed seeing the fish. This was so funny as he has lived here for three years and never seen the fish jump and I have been here only a week and I have seen them jump a lot. It was funny to see Michel's reaction as all the time he missed seeing the fish.

Martine speaks such good english and I have relied on her alot to help me and she has been so great. She is a wonderful person. It has been fun trying to communicate with Michel who thinks my french is improving. Hahahaha I'm not so sure but I have enjoyed trying to learn french. In France a smile goes such a long way and all the french people are so helpful when you attempt to speak the language.

My time in Chancelade has been wonderful and the experience of being in the countryside with such warm people has been so amazing. I have many great photographs to remember my time here. Thankyou Martine and Michel for being such good friends.

Perigueux to Beauronne to Chateau-L'eveque to Brantome to Bourdeille

2008-05-29T04:16:00.000-07:00

Martine took me out to see the sights around her town and our first stop was Perigueux. It was a shame as my camera battery died. It was "sais dommage" Perigueux is a very beautiful town and it had markets open, so it was so cool to visit them. They had clothes and food for sale. Its great that Martine gets me to buy things in french as I lack confidence in speaking with the locals.
We then returned home and I recharged my batteries, which was cool.

Later on Martine drove me out to Beauronne, which is such a cool little village. It has very old buildings and is a sleepy little country town. I loved this village very much and we walked through the town with Oxo, the family dog who I just adore. "Jem Oxo" The village has a little village running through it and it was so quiet and peaceful.

Next Martine took me to Chateau-L'eveque which was so so beautiful. I cant explain in words how stunning this village is and I loved it very much. It has an old castle and Martine, Oxo and myself walked through the town. It had a really old bakery and it was beautiful to walk beside the river. The laneways and the sstreets were so gorgeous and I would be surprised if my photographs can capture the true beauty of this town.

Then we went to Brantome which had also a beautiful old monastry. We tasted some of the local cheese, five different types and they were all delicious however, Martine told me they were far too expensive so we didnt buy any. We walked beside the river and it was nice to explore the town. I must admit I feel so much more secure having Martine with me.

Finally Martine took me to Bourdeille, which is yet another old village with two beautiful castles. It was very stunning and it seems to be a haven for young inspiring artists. The streets are cobble-stoned and very very beautiful.

We returned home and briefly saw Alice, Sandra's younger sister. Michel had returned from work and was mowing the lawns. We all went over to Sebastian and Stephanie's house for drinks and dinner as Stephanie's mama Viviane had cooked us a morocan dinner. Sebastian kept filling my glass with red

wine. They are such great people and so so lovely. Friends of theirs also called in and I met Bruno 'La prune and Nathalie and Jeantout and Tonio. They were so great to meand Sebastian was so funny as all he could say in english was "Sit down and shut up!" hahaha The moroccan dinner that Viviane made was so beautiful and wow I can't wait to visit Morocco. Viviane was so lovely as she sat down later and told me where to visit in Morocco.

I forgot to mention that Sebastian and Stephanies daughter is named Lola. She is the most gorgeous little girl and so so intelligent. You can tell that everybody around around here loves her so much. I gave her a kangaroo as a present and in french she said she would take the kangaroo to bed with her. You could tell she loved the kangaroo very much.

Chancelade and Perigueux

2008-05-27T06:57:00.000-07:00

Chancelade and Perigueux.

Martine and Alice, Sandra's mama and sister collected me from Bordeaux and took me in their four wheel drive to Chancelade where they live. It was a very beautiful drive and it is so cool to see so much of the countryside. Everything is so green and also so clean. It was really interesting for me to pass through french villages. This region of France as many historical buildings and its so old.

When we arrived I met Michel and him and Martine welcomed me into their house. They are such friendly people and Martine has promised to teach me some french. She doesn't know how bad I am at speaking french...hahahaha. I briefly met Sebastian their neighbour. Oxo their dog is so so beautiful and I think he has warmed to me straight away as almost immediately he starts to follow me. Martine et Michel et myself sat outside beside the big pond and I drank red wine. I bought Michel a bottle of whisky as a present and I bought Martine a book about Australia as I know they want to visit Australia next year. Michel doesn't speak english but its cool as I have to try to communicate in french which is fun as I have a limited vocabulary.

What is amazing is to think I hosted Sandra last year and now her parents are hosting me. For those of you who dont know Sandra she is a french couchsurfer who I hosted in Melbourne with Laura last year. They are both really lovely girls who are very different in personality but both verymy first night in Chancelade as the bed is very comfortable. I love being out in the countryside very much. Martine took me into Perigueux and it was pouring with rain which for some strange reason made it all the more beautiful. First we went to La Post, where I sent a ca nice people.

I slept really well rd home and also a cd that containing all my photos from Paris and Bordeaux on it. Martine told me I have to practice french so I went into the lady and said , " Bonjour, je voudrais un timbre s'il vous plait" The biggest surprise of all was that the lady understood me. Martine encourages me all the time.

Then we walked around Perigueux. Wow what a city. The buildings are so ancient and I love it very much. We walked down laneways in the rain and we got drenched but no worries. It was well worth it. I took many amazing photos of the Cathedral which looks brilliant. You guys must be so tired of me saying how beautiful France is, but trust me it is. When we were well and truly soaked I asked martine could we go and get some cafe and we went to a friend of hers cafe. Once again Martine sent me in to order the cafe and tea in french. "Je voudrais un cafe et tea s'il vous plait" Okay so a little wrong but I am trying really hard.

Afterwards we drove back into Chancelade and I went into the boulengerie to buy some bread and i said, "Bonjour , je voudrais deux baguettes s'il vous plait." The young girl serving me had a nice smile and I think that the french really have a respect that you try to use their language. "Merci beaucoup." is my favourite saying and it sounds better than "Thanks heaps" which is what I am used to saying in Australia. The baguettes in France are my favourite, and I hate to say it but the bread, pastries and cheese that is made in france is far superior to that made in Australia.

We then drove back to Chancelade where Oxo met us with a wagging tail at the front door. He is such a gorgeous dog and I want to take him back to Australia as I think he and Monty would be great mates.

Martine made lunch for me and we had a vegetable dish, baguette, cheese and of course vegemite. I think perhaps the vegemite detroys the taste of the baguettes. The lunch went down so well with a glass of red wine. French wine is also really good. I still love aussie wine but I must admit I love french wine. Martine and myself watched some of the French Open tennis on television in the afternoon as it was still raining outside.

The Lifestyle and People of Bordeaux

2008-05-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

The Lifestyle and People of Bordeaux

Reflecting upon my time in Bordeaux brings me great happiness as the people here have been so nice to me.

Christine who is Laura's mother is just the most lovely lady. She tries hard to teach me french and she doesn't get frustrated when I keep getting things wrong, and she enjoys speaking english as well.

Christine has made me feel so so welcome in her house. She has also driven me around, taken me to the vineyards and the big sand dune and always been so positive and so smiling. I owe her a great deal and hopefully when she comes to Melbourne I can show her around.

Laura has also been wonderful. We have become good friends and I'm sure when I return to Australia we will remain good friends as well. Her friend Emily is just lovely and she cooked a really nice dinner for me as well as introducing me to friends of hers. She is a down to earth fun person.

Steph and James, Sandra's cousins are so cool and introduced me to many couchsurfing friends. They are a really genuine couple and I love their positive outlook on life. They seem to be ever smiling and so easy going. I like their zest for life.

The people of Bordeaux are super friendly. It seems to be a very young city and the people seem happy to meet travellers. I love the little smiles they give when a silly australian guy destroys their language completely. They seem bemused when you attempt to speak french and go out of their way to help you.

I have loved the food and wine of Bordeaux, thanks to Christine and Laura. I have also loved hearing music in the streets and watching street performances as well.

My Cup Runneth Over With Wine....Beautiful Wine!!!

2008-05-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

The following day Christine took us out to a little town North-East of Bordeaux. The town was called Saint Emilion. Its a very old little town with beautiful old towers with a type of fort and also a cathedral. The town has vineyards all around it and they are really beautiful.

The buildings are so old and so so beautiful. I can't wait to view the photographs I took. We tried some of the local wine, well I did at least and we walked around the town. It was well worth seeing and I guess you can't come to Bordeaux and not try the wines.

Later on Christine brought us back to Bordeaux and as laura was meeting up with friends I decided to walfk into the town of Bordeaux and look around again. The streets and laneways still fasinate me as they are so old and so beautiful.

Bordeaux to Arcachon and Dune de Pilat

2008-05-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

The following day Christine was kind enough to take Laura, Emily and myself to Arcachon which is a small coastal town on the Atlantic coast. The drive there was quite scenic and it was great to sit in the car and practise my french. Laura and Christine do a lot for my self-confidence as they keep praising me even though I know I am still really bad. I guess the main thing is I do try.

Arcachon is a beautiful little town and although it was a warm sunny day there weren't really many tourists there. We walked along the beach and also out along the pier. It was nice to take some photographs of all of us and it was also good to see the ocean again.

We didnt really stay long as we wanted to get to Dune de Pilat. The dune was so much bigger than what we expected. Wow it was gigantic. Laura, Emily and myself decided to climb it and it was hard work. We had a laugh while" we climbed up it. The views from the top were just so beautiful. You can see the ocean and also see right along the coast. The dune leads toa narrow strip of sand and it was really like walking in the desert. It was so amazingly beautiful even if my shoes did fill with sand. The sand was very white and looked so beautiful. It was quite windy up there but it didnt deter us from walking along the top of the dune with the ocean on one side and a dense forrest on the other.

When we got back to Bordeaux, I headed off into town to meet up with Stephanie and James, Sandra's cousins. Bandra is a couchsurfing friend who stayed with me in Melbourne. They are the most amazing people. Very warm and straight away I felt as though I had been friends with them for a very long time. First we had some beers in the main square of Bordeaux and then they took me to a bistro where we had a meal and also some wine. Of course the conversation was mainly about travel and it was so exciting to talk to them and to meet others who share my passion with travel and also to meet two great people like them.

Vive la Magnifique Bordeaux!!!

2008-05-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

Vive la Magnifique Bordeaux!!!

I felt a little nervous upon arriving in Bordeaux and when I hopped off the train I waited for Laura to meet me. It wasn't long before I met Laura and her mother Christine. Laura was at my house in Melbourne when I left for France so she could tell me how Monty and Mollie my dogs were going. Christine is Laura's mother ans she is just lovely. So friendly and so so charming. They took me by car to their beautiful house in Bordeaux where I had lunch. The bedroom I will sleep in is so amazlingly big and the house has a beautiful outside garden with many trees and flowers. Its like staying in a palace. The house was built in the 18th century so it is really old.

I enjoyed practising my really poor french and every word I seem to trip over. Even when Laura tries to teach me new words I seem to mess it all up. I have also lost the sheet that William gave me that had all the french verbs on it so I will have to ask him if he can write them out for me again.

Christine made me a beautiful lunch. It seems that the french eat bigger lunches and not so much for dinner. I like this very much. It was chicken a la franaise and it was delicieux and strawberry pie et wine. Sais mangnifique!

They then took me into Bordeaux which was just amazing. It is such a beautiful city. The building are all extremely old and I loved all of the laneways. The city used to be surrounded by walls and it still has these massive entrance gates everywhere. I took so so many photographs of the buildings and the beautiful fountains. We walked also down to the river and we walked and up towards this massive bridge which was built by Napoleon in the 18th century. Christine watched in amazement as Laura and myself posed for different photos. She must have thought that I was a lunatic, but I guess she doesnt realise we haven't got buildings this old in Australia.

Later on we caught the tram back to the house and they showed me how to use the public transport system. Yes they do have trams in Bordeaux, like Melbourne only much newer. We had dinner and ate many different types of cheeses and we drank some more wine. I love Bordeaux very much and Laura and Christine have been so good to me. It's so much fun catching up with Laura again and we have some laughs. I think that she thinks that I am always lost!!! Ha not so far from the truth!!!!

The following day I explored Bordeaux by myself and I enjoyed laying in the sunshine and practising my french. Laura said it is improving but I'm not so sure. I think perhaps she is being polite. Bordeaux is so amazing and I bought some beautiful postcards. Later in the night Bernard, Laura's father came for dinner and we drank more wine, and no I am not becoming an alcoholic. He taught me some more french and then after dinner he drove all of us around VBordeaux to see the city lights by night. Wow! What an amazing city! So chaarming, so old and so amazingly beautiful.

France has just blown me away with its incredible beauty!

Going to Borrdeaux!!!!!!!

2008-05-19T07:49:00.000-07:00

It was a bit sad meaving Paris as Id been there for two weeks and had the time of my life. The people I had met were awsome and all the time good things seemed to happen. Anyhow it was time to leave Paris at least for the moment.

The one thing I had failed to write about was that there was a big thunderstorm on my last night there. Also my friend Laura had told me that all the museums had free entry just for this one special night of the year so I decided to have a look at the Louvre, and i loved all the sculptures and of course the Mona Lisa which really wasnt all that special. For those of you who know me I have a very short attention span and after about two hours in the louvre I was ready to see a different museum. Next, I went to The Centre National d Art et de Culture Georges Pompidou. This museum houses a lot of modern art and some of the art work was fascinating. It was free which for me was great as usually the museum prices in Paris are quite expensive.

It was a good way to spend my last night in Paris and I was home just before midnight as I had an early train to catch for Bordeaux the following morning.

I arose very early and Bernard took me into the train station. The train journey took about three hours and it was great to sit and gaze out of the window watching the french countryside roll by. it's a really beautiful country. Some of the villages that i passed through were so beautiful but the train was tralling so quickly that it was impossible to take any photographs. After a three hour journey I made it to Bordeaux. Beautiful Bordeaux!!!!

Excusez- moi, je suis perdu!!!!

2008-05-15T22:36:00.000-07:00

Excusez- moi, je suis perdu!!!!

Okay so I am an expert at getting lost and I have to admit I have been lost on the metro in Paris quite a few times since arriving. I love the energy of the metro, the way that the french people go about their daily lives. Its amazing as to how good the metro really is in Paris, as you can really get anywhere you want to go to, quite easily. I try not to be in the metro at peak hour as the trains get really packed and I guess its annoying for the french people to see travellers taking up room with their backpacks during the mad rush to get to and from work. I love reading all the posters at the metro stations and half the time I walk around in a daze. I was on the metro yesterday and there was a young guy doing some rapp dancing with music blaring. It was great to watch although I'm not sure that the french people would agree. I spend far too much time people watching instead of working out how I can connect metro trains to get to where I want to go and as a result I get so so lost. It's part of my french experience and I am loving it. The other night I had to leave a friends apartment to get the metro back to where I was staying and I got drenched in a sudden downpour. As I ran to the station I realized that I hadn't been looking where I was running and I ended up lost in the streets of Paris. Finally I made it to a metro station, and with the help of some locals I made my way back to the metro La Motte-Picquet Grenelle station close to where I am staying. I have been practising saying "Ou est station de metro la plus proche?", in the worst french accent you can imagine. The speed with which people move within the metro is sometimes hectic and this sometimes leaves me a little bewilded and feeling a bit lost.

I love the french people and they have been so great towards me in all ways. They are helpful and charming people. I think maybe it has helped to wear my Australian badge as for some crazy reason they seem to really like Australian people lots. I'm not sure why this is,but when trying to converse with the french I always throw in a "je suis australie" The french peoples faces usually light up and they are so nice towards me. A friend of mine, Christelle thinks its because the french see Australia as an exotic country with beautiful wildlife and beaches but maybe they think to themselves, 'This aussie guy is a complete loser and looks like he has got no idea of where he is going and is completely lost.' I guess its the same in Australia as australians love meeting up with french speaking people when they are travelling around Australia. The people in Paris are such proud people. I have loved listening to the french language and although I can't really speak the language I can usually understand part of what they are talking about. I have been really fortunate because I have met many locals and they have helped me out, taking me to see different places and to see famous french sights.

My friend William has let me stay in his apartment which has the most amazing views of the Eiffel Tower. It is just stunning and as I lay in bed of a night I can see the Eiffel Tower all lit up, sometmes sparkling but always there reminding me that I am really here in France and having the best time. William is working in Spain so I have had the apartment to myself. His mother Mirabel and his father Bernard have made me so welcome and they have had me in for dinner a couple of times. Last night I watched a french movie in their apartment that Bernard had appeared in. Their dog Tatoon is so amazing. He is just gorgeous ans so intelligent and he has taken a liking to me so I am feeling less home-sick when I am around him.

I have loved going into the supermarkets and practising my french and I have started to learn the french verbs that William kindly copied out for me. The people serving in the supermarkets are really friendly and always greet me with a "Bonjour" and when leaving I reply "merci beaucoup." I have also loved walking the streets, visiting little markets and parks and walking up little lane ways. Exploring Paris has definately been a highlight and I have taken many many photographs.
Besides William's family who, are the most warm and delightful people you could ever wish to meet, I have made a few friends in Paris. Jeremy and his brother Kevin have taken good care of me since being here. Jeremy was my first host upon arriving in Paris and we have kept in contact. I often go over to his apartment to have baguettes with him and Kevin and they make the best cafe. Also I have met some really nice couchsurfers in Paris, some of whom are staying at Jeremy's. Carlos, Iggy and Anna to name a few. Carlos is such a nice guy, he is from the Dominican Rebuplic and if I dont catch up with him in Spain then I will for sure in Australia Jeremy's juggling skills are incredible and he is quite the entertainer. He can do so many magical tricks and I think the children back at the school where I teach would be impressed. I've been to a big couchsurfing picnic with them. Norbert has become a good friend and we have been out for biers a couple of times with him during my stay in Paris. I will host his brother Romain and his girlfriend Christelle when they come to Melbourne in January. I also met up with Rodrigo and Claudia from Chile who are both lovely and such vibrant people. I want to catch up with them again for sure. We talked about travel for hours.

I also was fortunate to have dinner with Christophe and Valerie who are couchsurfers and so lovely. They made me a french dinner of duck and potatoes which was so delicious and it was nice to meet two of their children Pierre and Leana who are fantastic teenagers. It was so much fun telling them about Australia and the australian way of life and they said that I was the first australian they had ever met. I hope they don't think all aussies are like me. I also learned alot from them about France and the french people. Christophe walked me to the station after we had consumed a few red wines, so I wouldnt get lost!!!

I guess one of the things that is different in France is that the french kiss all the time. The women greet everybody with two kisses on the cheeks. At first I wasnt sure what to do (well which side to start on) and I'm really still not sure if there is a correct side to start on, but i think it is a really nice custom and very different to how we greet each other in Australia.

On Sunday I leave for Bordeaux and my train ticket is all booked. I know I will be back in Paris so its not so sad to leave. Also I want to catch up with Vincent, Caroline and Clement as I have had a bit of a head cold and I didn't want to spread my germs to the baby. I'm looking frward to exploring the Bordeaux area of France very much. Hopefully soon I will be able to download some amazing photos for you to view. A bientot!

PARIS FROM ABOVE 12-5-2008

2008-05-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

So I left you when I was staying in La Defense. The french people in this area were so nice. In the local internet cafe I would use the people would chat to me and it seems they all love Australia very much. Norbert's apartment was so cool to stay in although it was a shame he wasnt there to talk to and to learn more about France. He has been so great to allow me to stay.

I caught the metro back to Paris and you would think that it would become easier for me to use but I guess I'm an expert at getting lost and the people you meet when you are lost are just amazing. Anyhow William, a friend who I met while travelling through Brazil in 2003 invited me to stay at his apartment in the heart of Paris. He met me at the La Motte Piquet Grenelle Metro station and he took me to his parents apartment. They are the most amazing family. So lovely and friendly. I had a luncheon with his parents, his brother and sister and of course his lovely girlfriend Emanuelle who is gorgeous friendly french girl and also some actors who work with William's father Bernard. The Menez family are so warm and friendly and they invited me into their home and they were so good to me. The lunch was beautiful and the wine went down well in the afternoon sun. I loved Tatoon their little dog, he reminds me of Monty and he is such a beautiful little dog.

Then William showed me the apartment I would be staying in. He has been so good to me while I have been in Paris and I really hope someday I can pay back the way in which he has taken care of me. William is just a brilliant guy. His apartment is on the eighth floor and its just gorgeous. It has the best views of Paris and it overlooks the Eiffel Tower. I have the most amazing views of the eiffel tower when I go to bed. It's amazing to look at of a night time when it is all lit up and sparkling. Its something that I will remember all of my life.

I walked around the district with William ane Emanuelle. She has the most beautiful smile and you can tell when you meet her she is just the most lovely person. Later on that night when I was alone in the apartment looking at the Eiffel Tower I had to pinch myself to make sure this is all real. It's like a dream come true for me.

Early the next morning William ane Emanuelle picked me up and we drove across Paris and out to a local airstrip. We picked Romain, Williams instructor and friend up along the way. First we had cafe and then William went up for his flying lesson with Romain. Emanuelle taught me some more french while we were waiting ane we sat around enjoying the french sunshine. A lovely french family spoke with me while we sat there and a little boy named Alexander gave me a drawing to keep. He was quite a talented little boy and his sketches were amazing. Sometimes its the simple things I love best like watching a french family interact and observing the beauty of the french culture.

Then Emanuelle went for her flying lesson and William started to teach me French verbs and I liked the way that his teaching seems to make learning french a bit easier. I'll give it a go anyhow. The french family seemed to be listening to everything that William was teaching me and I received lots of smiles from them.

We all had lunch at the cafe and it was here that William and Emanuelle had Steak Tartare which
is French steak which is raw with a raw egg on top. It looked so so bad and I was happy that I had ordered a different dish. I tasted it but it was so so bad I cant really express to you how bad it was.

After lunch it was my turn to take to the skies in the small cesna which can carry four people. For those of you who know me well. You would know about my fear of heights. The take off was amazing although I was nervous as all hell. I could only think of what would happen if the single engine stalled or if it went spiralling out of control when it was turning. I have a vivid imagination and sometimes it just runs out of control and I cant stop it. William was pointing things out and I could see the Eiffel tower and Paris in the distance but I was very very nervous. It was beautiful to see the coloured fields, the lakes and the forests from above but I also wanted very much to be safely back on the ground. We flew around for about one and a half hours and William practised his take offs and landings a few times on an airstrip. It was aan amazing experience although I am very embarrassed that I was so nervous. Its something I thought I could never do and I am s happy that I did it. Romain is very experienced and very confident as too is William.

How can I ever repay William for the sights he has shown me, the friendship and also the accomodation. My french journey is off to an amazing start and my family and friends in Melbourne will have to help me in showing William and Emanuellhe the best time when they visit Melbourne in a couple of years time. Hopefully his whole Menez family will visit someday as they are really special people.

You can visit my travel website on http://paul-is-in-france.blogspot.com/

Arriving In Paris 4-5-2008

2008-05-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

Bonjour all, Ca va?

Okay so I arrived in Paris after a very long flight. I had a nice stop over in Singapore, but then the flight was delayed for four hours and they gave us a free meal at the airport. I sat near a really nice french guy on the plane and he was telling me alotabout France. I may meet up with him in Lyon sometime in June.

A ll those things you hear about the people in Paris are not true as they have been so nice to me over here and very helpful as well. I arrived at Jeremys apartment at 3am in the morning and I met his brother and Carlos a really nice guy from the Dominican Republic. The next day I went out exploring Paris. Wow what a city and straight away I was greeted with smiles and happy cheerful people. It has been sunny the whole time I have been here in Paris so I guess I am quite lucky. I have been to all the tourist sights and Ive seen Notre Dame, The Eiffel Tower, the Lourve and Arc De Triomphe. Also I have been visiting local markets and also practising my french which is slowly improving.

I moved out of Jeremys apartment and Im staying in Norberts apartment in La Defense. He is a really nice guy to let me stay there as he is currently in Lyon visiting his brother. I know his brother Romain as he couchsurfed with me in Melbourne. I will move back to Paris tomorrow where William a friend I met in South America is letting me stay in his apartment for a week before I head to Bordeaux and then onto Nantes. Its so good of him.

Well so far I have loved France and yes I am slowly learning some french. But I really love it here and I cant speak highly enough of the people. Having a picnic with a group of friends under the Eiffel Tower, walking along the Sienne and just exploring the little market places have been the highlights so far. I cant wait to see Bordeaux and Nante as well. It should be heaps of fun. I have also been lost on the metro a few times and the french people have been great in helping m out. I think they take pity on this aussie guy who seems so lost.
I will keep you informed on my adventures.
A bientot Regards Paul