Okay, so I know you all are probably sick of hearing about toilets but I have one more post for you. So have you ever been on a bus, train or plane and wondered…where does it go? I mean does it get flushed from the toilet to the ground? I mean you don’t see toilet paper in the streets or human poop falling from the sky, so most likely common sense tells you that it is like a porta potty; deposited in a basin and the sucked out (as seen on Dirty Jobs). Anyway, today I learned that the Italian trains do it differently.
After traveling for about 4 hours I decided to stretch my legs again and find the restroom. I found the male one first, turned around and found the female one. It was locked at first so I waited, and waited and waited. I left that area and was just looking out the window when another girl came and waited and waited and then left. Finally, I went back and knocked…nothing. Was the girl too shy? Nope, the door was just hard to open; why there was red by the lock, don’t know!
I look in the toilet as I prepare the paper to go on the seat and see the ground. Not the ground of the train, the ground of the tracks flying by. What happens in the winter? Poor Italians…Anyway, I go to leave and cannot unlock the door. Like the lock moves and it sounds like it opens, but it doesn’t. I am stuck in an Italian train, knowing not a lick of Italian, with the ground passing me by. I took more than my anticipated 60 seconds, took a deep breath and thought of how I would call for help (it being in between trains and all). I tried again, and again, and again. You know, this trip is really all about the practice makes perfect….
The door finally opens and an older lady is standing outside. She laughed and said something and I replied with “be careful!” She said yes and headed in. Perhaps I will cut back on the water intake until I get into Florence.
PS – I really really wanted to go back and take a picture of this hole in the train but figured I wanted to never go back there again….ever.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Late Trains
It is the idea of traveling and missing something or being late that freaks me out. Not to an extreme extent, but where I wake up really early and cannot sleep. When I travel alone, it helps me which is why I think it is easier for me to travel alone. The whole point of that was to tell you that I woke up really early. I went back to sleep. I woke up. I went back to sleep. I dreamt about a train crashing into the place I was sitting (I think due to the fact that the other two roommates came in, but I am not sure). My alarm went off, I covered it but hit the button so it stopped. I had five minutes…I decided to head to the bathroom so that when it went off again, I would be out of the room, let it go off for a minute and then be done with it.
I got up, went to the bathroom, looked at my watch….5:02. I checked my alarm: 6:30. Did it go off? Was I dreaming? Did someone else’s go off? I am confused. I changed my clothes and went back to bed. I woke up again, around 6 and changed my alarm so that it would not go off. I packed my bags and then went into the hall…where I repacked my bags. Why did I do this? Last night my towel was still wet so I could not pack it and it HAS to go on the bottom or I will feel everything through the bag. There was no light in the room for me to really see, since I had my stuff not near the window and so my bag did not close. Anyway 15 minutes later, I was good to go.
I even had time to check my map, put everything in order, and be satisfied with my timing. I got to the train station in less than 10 minutes, with not one problem. I saw a lot of people there and thought a train just got in. I went to go inside and couldn’t. There were people everywhere. I mean sprawled out, sleeping, luggage all over, a line out the door for information, it was nuts. I looked at the board and about 5 trains were delayed. Some for 5 minutes others for over an hour. Mine said “arret tout gare.” I thought it meant “all stopped at stations.” I was not so happy about this delay and waited.
One of the workers posted a sign and all I could get from it is that some dangerous event happened at the Cassis train station last night and they are either checking all trains, stopping them, or I don’t know what. Great, how will I catch my other three trains?! All of a sudden it said platform D for me….ah “stop at all stations,” it is a local train, sweet! I headed to my platform and boarded the train.
I had a funny feeling and asked someone if I was on the right train, they said no. I said okay and got off. I then decided I was and got back on. I found someone else and asked again, she said “no this train is going in the opposite direction.” I got off. What the heck? I looked at the board with the information, this is platform D and that is my train…ohhhhhh my train has not arrived yet. This is for the delayed train. Glad I got off that one!
I was able to catch the earlier train that pulled up right next to me and of course asked again. I was on the right train and overjoyed it was on time and running. I got into Monte Carlo and left the platform; found out there were only two platforms and returned. I caught my originally scheduled train and checked to make sure it was the right one before putting my bags down. It was and before I knew it I was at Ventimiglia.
It is funny to get off of a train and not hear the usual foreign language that you are used to. I have been in France for a month (wow) and wish I had more time to get to know the language. I will work on that when I return though. For now, it is Italian. I know no Italian. I heard “excussi” and smiled. It is like the fake accents we do in school. When I thought about what words I know, really I just know the accent and not the words. The guy in front of me was stopped by a cop and I walked around that. I have been very lucky not being stopped or questioned, but I guess I do not look like the type one would usually question (fools!). Anyway, I found my train (checked it was the right one with another body) and then found my seat.
The cars had seats of six that were a bit more upscale I guess than the French regional trains. I found my spot and took some pictures. Then a gross man walked by, came back, and said a bunch of stuff in Italian that I had no idea and sat down. I smiled and shrugged my shoulders and he basically said, oh you don’t speak my language. He sat, stood, walked, stood, picked his nose, ate it, picked it some more, ate it some more. Cleaned his teeth, tried to sleep, grossed me out, picked the nose again, inspecting it this time. When he decided to leave I was overjoyed to say the least. About ten minutes later a guy in his 30s, tall dark and handsome found his seat in my compartment. He was not so oblivious, so I could not stare the way I did with nose picker. He was reading a newspaper that was pink though. I couldn’t tell if it was that color on purpose or stained (although the whole thing was uniformly pink).
I got up, went to the bathroom, looked at my watch….5:02. I checked my alarm: 6:30. Did it go off? Was I dreaming? Did someone else’s go off? I am confused. I changed my clothes and went back to bed. I woke up again, around 6 and changed my alarm so that it would not go off. I packed my bags and then went into the hall…where I repacked my bags. Why did I do this? Last night my towel was still wet so I could not pack it and it HAS to go on the bottom or I will feel everything through the bag. There was no light in the room for me to really see, since I had my stuff not near the window and so my bag did not close. Anyway 15 minutes later, I was good to go.
I even had time to check my map, put everything in order, and be satisfied with my timing. I got to the train station in less than 10 minutes, with not one problem. I saw a lot of people there and thought a train just got in. I went to go inside and couldn’t. There were people everywhere. I mean sprawled out, sleeping, luggage all over, a line out the door for information, it was nuts. I looked at the board and about 5 trains were delayed. Some for 5 minutes others for over an hour. Mine said “arret tout gare.” I thought it meant “all stopped at stations.” I was not so happy about this delay and waited.
One of the workers posted a sign and all I could get from it is that some dangerous event happened at the Cassis train station last night and they are either checking all trains, stopping them, or I don’t know what. Great, how will I catch my other three trains?! All of a sudden it said platform D for me….ah “stop at all stations,” it is a local train, sweet! I headed to my platform and boarded the train.
I had a funny feeling and asked someone if I was on the right train, they said no. I said okay and got off. I then decided I was and got back on. I found someone else and asked again, she said “no this train is going in the opposite direction.” I got off. What the heck? I looked at the board with the information, this is platform D and that is my train…ohhhhhh my train has not arrived yet. This is for the delayed train. Glad I got off that one!
I was able to catch the earlier train that pulled up right next to me and of course asked again. I was on the right train and overjoyed it was on time and running. I got into Monte Carlo and left the platform; found out there were only two platforms and returned. I caught my originally scheduled train and checked to make sure it was the right one before putting my bags down. It was and before I knew it I was at Ventimiglia.
It is funny to get off of a train and not hear the usual foreign language that you are used to. I have been in France for a month (wow) and wish I had more time to get to know the language. I will work on that when I return though. For now, it is Italian. I know no Italian. I heard “excussi” and smiled. It is like the fake accents we do in school. When I thought about what words I know, really I just know the accent and not the words. The guy in front of me was stopped by a cop and I walked around that. I have been very lucky not being stopped or questioned, but I guess I do not look like the type one would usually question (fools!). Anyway, I found my train (checked it was the right one with another body) and then found my seat.
The cars had seats of six that were a bit more upscale I guess than the French regional trains. I found my spot and took some pictures. Then a gross man walked by, came back, and said a bunch of stuff in Italian that I had no idea and sat down. I smiled and shrugged my shoulders and he basically said, oh you don’t speak my language. He sat, stood, walked, stood, picked his nose, ate it, picked it some more, ate it some more. Cleaned his teeth, tried to sleep, grossed me out, picked the nose again, inspecting it this time. When he decided to leave I was overjoyed to say the least. About ten minutes later a guy in his 30s, tall dark and handsome found his seat in my compartment. He was not so oblivious, so I could not stare the way I did with nose picker. He was reading a newspaper that was pink though. I couldn’t tell if it was that color on purpose or stained (although the whole thing was uniformly pink).
French Service
I showered in the hot/cool water and changed in the barely room spot. Just my luck, my roommate came back and was up for some dinner. She did not want a sandwich to go and I was fine with that. We walked around the old city and found a spot we both liked.
We got there around 8, ate around 9:15 and left around 10. I was starving and happy to see the food finally come. I was tired and neither of us were too interested in going out so we skipped the place that backpackers go and dance on tables…even though it was Bingo Mondays and headed home.
Along the way home we decided to stop and take pictures of the merry go round.
We even tried to get a picture on it but the lady took so long to take it that the alarm sounded and it started to spin, we had not paid so we jumped off and this is what we got:
We then took pictures by the fountains at night.
We wanted to get pictures of us with the fountain lit up and decided to do silhouettes instead.
We had one more thing to do today, get some water for tomorrow. Most of the shops were closed, none of the grocery stores were open, we were harassed by a couple of guys and even ran into some Michael Jackson impersonator (see Facebook for video). We went into a restaurant, they don’t sell water to go, we went into another, nobody was in it, but some old lady asked what we needed. When we told her water she said she had some. She went to the kitchen, nothing. Looked in the other fridge, nothing. Asked her even older, hunch back friend who got a flashlight and looked in the fridge, nothing (I would like to note, that the lights were on and the fridges were smaller than the kind you buy for dorm rooms….). Anyway, lady #1 went into the basement and got us some. Way weird, way creepy, a little crazy we were sleeping next door one floor up. We got home and I repacked. I have enjoyed my time in Nice a lot. I think I could have used another day or two, but with tutoring in the south, perhaps I will have that opportunity. My roommate is headed to Florence after me, so we may meet up there or in a town nearby (yay!)
We got there around 8, ate around 9:15 and left around 10. I was starving and happy to see the food finally come. I was tired and neither of us were too interested in going out so we skipped the place that backpackers go and dance on tables…even though it was Bingo Mondays and headed home.
Along the way home we decided to stop and take pictures of the merry go round.
We even tried to get a picture on it but the lady took so long to take it that the alarm sounded and it started to spin, we had not paid so we jumped off and this is what we got:
We then took pictures by the fountains at night.
We wanted to get pictures of us with the fountain lit up and decided to do silhouettes instead.
We had one more thing to do today, get some water for tomorrow. Most of the shops were closed, none of the grocery stores were open, we were harassed by a couple of guys and even ran into some Michael Jackson impersonator (see Facebook for video). We went into a restaurant, they don’t sell water to go, we went into another, nobody was in it, but some old lady asked what we needed. When we told her water she said she had some. She went to the kitchen, nothing. Looked in the other fridge, nothing. Asked her even older, hunch back friend who got a flashlight and looked in the fridge, nothing (I would like to note, that the lights were on and the fridges were smaller than the kind you buy for dorm rooms….). Anyway, lady #1 went into the basement and got us some. Way weird, way creepy, a little crazy we were sleeping next door one floor up. We got home and I repacked. I have enjoyed my time in Nice a lot. I think I could have used another day or two, but with tutoring in the south, perhaps I will have that opportunity. My roommate is headed to Florence after me, so we may meet up there or in a town nearby (yay!)
The Train Tour
So I am not huge into doing tours and looking like a tourist. I really just want to see the secrets that the towns have to offer that only locals really know about. Despite me feeling this way, after my chocolate tour I have decided that tours are a crucial part of my trip, especially my day in Nice as I only have a day (20 hours to be exact)!
I had read about one of those tours that you ride around on a train and there are headphones and you pick the language to listen to it in. One guidebook said to skip it and one person said if you are there for a short time or not sure what the town has to offer, it is a great introduction so that you can decide what to cover when you are there. I walked up the train as it was about to leave and enjoyed my tour.
I took 176 pictures in my one day in Nice. I guess I was trying to capture everything it had to offer and crammed it all in. I took pictures of the beautiful buildings,
the spotless beaches
and the old parts of the town.
Back on track…the tour went around town, to many of the spots that I had already been to before but it gave me some background which was nice. We also went to the top of some hill to see the castle
Not that castle.
They are excavating parts of it.
Other parts just offer a spectacular view of the city. I learned that 7 statues in the center of the town were to represent the 7 continents and that every day at noon a cannon is fired. Apparently some lady was always late for lunch and so her husband got permission from the mayor to shoot off a cannon every day at exactly noon to let her know to head back home so that she would not be late to lunch. For whatever crazy reason, the city has kept this custom going. I was in Nice at noon but a) did not hear it or b) did not know what it was. The tour was over, my towel was dry, and I headed back to the hostel.
I had read about one of those tours that you ride around on a train and there are headphones and you pick the language to listen to it in. One guidebook said to skip it and one person said if you are there for a short time or not sure what the town has to offer, it is a great introduction so that you can decide what to cover when you are there. I walked up the train as it was about to leave and enjoyed my tour.
I took 176 pictures in my one day in Nice. I guess I was trying to capture everything it had to offer and crammed it all in. I took pictures of the beautiful buildings,
the spotless beaches
and the old parts of the town.
Back on track…the tour went around town, to many of the spots that I had already been to before but it gave me some background which was nice. We also went to the top of some hill to see the castle
Not that castle.
They are excavating parts of it.
Other parts just offer a spectacular view of the city. I learned that 7 statues in the center of the town were to represent the 7 continents and that every day at noon a cannon is fired. Apparently some lady was always late for lunch and so her husband got permission from the mayor to shoot off a cannon every day at exactly noon to let her know to head back home so that she would not be late to lunch. For whatever crazy reason, the city has kept this custom going. I was in Nice at noon but a) did not hear it or b) did not know what it was. The tour was over, my towel was dry, and I headed back to the hostel.
Cote d’Azur II
I got there in no time (I am a pro at this city!) and found a spot next to the “extreme sports.” They had para-sailing and raft rides pulled by a motor boat. I immediately got up and went into the water. So there is no sand on this beach, just pebbles; but these were more like smooth rocks. They hurt like heck and when the waves here hitting you as you were walking on them, it was like some sort of torture tactic.
I made it to the water and it was LOVELY. Warm, beautiful, perfect. The color was just so amazing and since there are pebbles, when the water hits the shore you hear crackling like bursts of fireworks. Honestly, it was an amazing sound. I stayed in the water for quite a while, constantly checking my bag. This beach was much more touristy than the other ones that I have gone to and I did not feel so safe with my stuff there, even though it had a lock on it. There was a woman with a girl and a man with a boy next to and behind me, and they knew I was alone so that was slightly comforting. Anyway, I should dry off before the sun went down and headed to my towel. Despite it being on rocks, it was pretty comfortable.
I enjoyed the sun and got humor from watching everyone try to get in and out of the water without killing themselves or just hurting their feet on the stones. The man that was behind me was showing his son how to crack the rocks using another rock and his hand; it was pretty interesting to watch. I did not want my towel to stay wet, as I would have to use it later that day to dry off, so I kept moving the towel and myself on the towel to let the sun hit it. There was one point that I was sitting on my flip flops and the towel was next to me. Finally, I was getting warm so I put the towel over my legs to protect myself.
I figured I would carry the towel for a bit to finish drying off and try to find a tour.
I made it to the water and it was LOVELY. Warm, beautiful, perfect. The color was just so amazing and since there are pebbles, when the water hits the shore you hear crackling like bursts of fireworks. Honestly, it was an amazing sound. I stayed in the water for quite a while, constantly checking my bag. This beach was much more touristy than the other ones that I have gone to and I did not feel so safe with my stuff there, even though it had a lock on it. There was a woman with a girl and a man with a boy next to and behind me, and they knew I was alone so that was slightly comforting. Anyway, I should dry off before the sun went down and headed to my towel. Despite it being on rocks, it was pretty comfortable.
I enjoyed the sun and got humor from watching everyone try to get in and out of the water without killing themselves or just hurting their feet on the stones. The man that was behind me was showing his son how to crack the rocks using another rock and his hand; it was pretty interesting to watch. I did not want my towel to stay wet, as I would have to use it later that day to dry off, so I kept moving the towel and myself on the towel to let the sun hit it. There was one point that I was sitting on my flip flops and the towel was next to me. Finally, I was getting warm so I put the towel over my legs to protect myself.
I figured I would carry the towel for a bit to finish drying off and try to find a tour.
Cote d’Azur Part I
I headed back to the hostel and checked out my digs. It was small, metal bunk beds and no bathroom in the room, fine with me! I met one of my roommates who was from Brazil and very nice. I changed clothes in the room with the toilet as my room had someone in it and the room with the shower was… well, a closet that they put a shower into. (Don’t get me wrong, it was a nice size shower and the water was an acceptable cool to hot, but once you got out of the shower you had no room to do anything….don’t even think of drying off!) I went back into the room, lathered me up with some spf on my shoulders and neck (not really planning to be out of the water) and was off.
Along the way I stopped off at a kind of department store place and saw a woman stealing. Like no joke, pulled something off of the hanger, had her friends and even 7ish year old daughter around her and stuffed it into her bag! I could not believe it. I felt that I had to say something, so I found a lady and said that the lady by the exit is trying to steal. She looked at me funny so I said in my best French, “she take without pay,” nothing, I go to charades and open my bag, stuff something in it and shut the bag. A side from feeling like a thief (a really dumb thief) I also felt ridiculously stupid. She said “ah oui oui bag” and smiled. I said no and forget it. She said that she would send over the English speaking person. Of course the lady was leaving the store at this time and the alarm went off and everyone left but her who came back into the store to look at something else. I guess she passed off her bag at that point and could leave home free.
The English speaking woman came up and asked what she could help me with. I told her that the lady was stealing but had left. She did not know steal. I said take without pay and she smiled and said yes yes. Then I said okay, thinking I should just take without pay! Nothing good though, so I left.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Hours 1-3 in Nice
The directions to the hostel were impeccable. Honestly, it is funny how having a good set of directions can give you a good start for a journey. I only had one day to spend here and not wasting time getting lost was fabulous.
I arrived at the hostel and checked in. They said the room would not be ready until 2 so I was off. I could not find my location on the map and so I asked a guy who told me to ask a girl who gave me explicit directions...in French. I just wanted to know the direction to walk and then after a while I would ask someone else for updated directions. She mentioned the tram and I decided to ignore her and ask someone else.
The next person was awesome and gave me perfect walking directions. I arrived at the beach (with no bathing suite, I thought about getting it on before I left the hostel but it was at the bottom of my bag...). I looked around in awe of the striking color of the water and then went in search of food (it was one o'clock).
I found a really large marche or market filled with people selling antiques and what looked like junk. I was totally unamused and found somewhere to eat and watch the buyers. I picked this place because the plate of the day was mussels and fish (some white fish, she could not think of the name). Anyway, I ordered it and saw it was one or the other and was satisfied with my meal.
Then, I headed back to the hostel to get my bathing suite...
I arrived at the hostel and checked in. They said the room would not be ready until 2 so I was off. I could not find my location on the map and so I asked a guy who told me to ask a girl who gave me explicit directions...in French. I just wanted to know the direction to walk and then after a while I would ask someone else for updated directions. She mentioned the tram and I decided to ignore her and ask someone else.
The next person was awesome and gave me perfect walking directions. I arrived at the beach (with no bathing suite, I thought about getting it on before I left the hostel but it was at the bottom of my bag...). I looked around in awe of the striking color of the water and then went in search of food (it was one o'clock).
I found a really large marche or market filled with people selling antiques and what looked like junk. I was totally unamused and found somewhere to eat and watch the buyers. I picked this place because the plate of the day was mussels and fish (some white fish, she could not think of the name). Anyway, I ordered it and saw it was one or the other and was satisfied with my meal.
Then, I headed back to the hostel to get my bathing suite...
The Commute to Nice
I work up on time and headed out with plenty of time. I got to the train station early enough to actually catch an earlier train into Marseille. I enjoyed my chocolate croissant on my way to Marseille and enjoyed some beautiful views from the window. There was a horse farm, some castle-like outlooks from a really high wall looking thing, and what do you know…a field of lavender!! I guess I got to see my lavender in Aix after all. Don’t ask for pictures, it came and went too quickly. Anyway, it was an enjoyable ride and I got into Marseille with about an hour before my train to Nice.
Since I was so early, I thought it a good time to get some more of my trains situated. Now, I was going to wait, but why wait? I will be in Nice for less than 24 hours and I am not sure how long the lines will be, plus I had the time now. I grabbed a brie sandwich that was really a turkey sandwich and headed to the ticket office. I was able to get a print out from Nice to Florence with a woman who spoke no English (props to me). It wound up costing me about 13,00 in seat reservations (I really do not get these, I thought all those trains were regional, but with my lack of French and her nonexistence of English it was not worth trying to figure out (especially since I did not really care)).
I caught the train that I had anticipated taking (the earliest non TGV train) and was on my way to Nice. It was pretty uneventful, although there was a guy playing music. It was annoying at first but then faded into the background. Two girls were watching episodes of House on their laptop and the ride was good. Our first stop wsa at Toulon; some people got off a bunch got on. Three backpackers picked my car to ride in…and the seats in front of mine to sit in. This may have been good and a possibility to meet people but they REAKED! I mean I don’t know if they use vinegar to clean the sheets and towels at the hotel or what but this guy smelled like he bathed in the vinegar detergent. It was bad enough he was sitting in front of me but then he decided he needed something from his bag, which he had put over me. I spent the next five minutes breathing into my hat praying the smell would dissipate or that I would get used to it. For the most part, this happened when he sat down, although every now and again….I would get a whiff. Oh what a whiff it was!!
So I thought that this was bad until the old man sat next to me and the woman who smelled like smoke and sprayed a bunch of perfume over it behind me. Let’s just say by the end of the trip, I was happy to get off and BREATHE some FRESH air!!
Since I was so early, I thought it a good time to get some more of my trains situated. Now, I was going to wait, but why wait? I will be in Nice for less than 24 hours and I am not sure how long the lines will be, plus I had the time now. I grabbed a brie sandwich that was really a turkey sandwich and headed to the ticket office. I was able to get a print out from Nice to Florence with a woman who spoke no English (props to me). It wound up costing me about 13,00 in seat reservations (I really do not get these, I thought all those trains were regional, but with my lack of French and her nonexistence of English it was not worth trying to figure out (especially since I did not really care)).
I caught the train that I had anticipated taking (the earliest non TGV train) and was on my way to Nice. It was pretty uneventful, although there was a guy playing music. It was annoying at first but then faded into the background. Two girls were watching episodes of House on their laptop and the ride was good. Our first stop wsa at Toulon; some people got off a bunch got on. Three backpackers picked my car to ride in…and the seats in front of mine to sit in. This may have been good and a possibility to meet people but they REAKED! I mean I don’t know if they use vinegar to clean the sheets and towels at the hotel or what but this guy smelled like he bathed in the vinegar detergent. It was bad enough he was sitting in front of me but then he decided he needed something from his bag, which he had put over me. I spent the next five minutes breathing into my hat praying the smell would dissipate or that I would get used to it. For the most part, this happened when he sat down, although every now and again….I would get a whiff. Oh what a whiff it was!!
So I thought that this was bad until the old man sat next to me and the woman who smelled like smoke and sprayed a bunch of perfume over it behind me. Let’s just say by the end of the trip, I was happy to get off and BREATHE some FRESH air!!
Grouping of Foods
So last night I was thinking about all of the steak that I had been eating in Aix. It was only three times in seven days and twenty-one meals and numerous snacks, but still. Anyway, I realized that Aix was my steak place. While I had been in Marseille, I had a large amount of seafood (mussels and shrimp delight). Thinking back to St. Sulpice, I got all my veggies in. Paris was my cheese over dose and that leads me to here and now. Later today is Nice, so that is not enough time to get a dose of anything but energy in, but Florence is next; you know that that means – PASTA! Yum yum to my taste buds!!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Steak and Figs
I got into town around 1:00 and needed to figure out where to eat. I walked up and down the main street and then through some side streets. I wound up off of the main street at a nice little spot. I sat for about ten minutes and then someone asked me if I was ready, I told them I had not received a menu yet and they apologized and brought me one.
I decided to have the steak. Now, I am not a huge red meat person (I have cut back dramatically from my younger days) but they make some good steak here. A man asked me what I would have and I ordered. He said something that I did not understand so I said that I would also have a salad. He said "how do you want it cooked?" I said oh medium and he left. Now, this conversation may seen to have gone well to you, but really it made me feel like a moron. The way that the guy was talking to me was a bit ridiculing and when he started to speak English he raised his voice so everyone was looking at me. You may not think this is a big deal, but it kinda was.
I got my meal and it looked small. I cut a piece and it was DELICIOUS! There was some brown dressing on the side, I assumed mustard and tried the lettuce. It was okay. I went to taste the dressing, surprise! It was gravy. I am really glad I did not just pour it over my salad. The next slice of meat that I had was really rare and rare and rare. I am okay with medium rare but this was like pan seared, only the outside had cooked and it was immediately taken off. I am not putting pictures as I am sure my vegetarian friends would be quite disgusted. With the bread it was good and I finished my plate clean.
I read for a while at the table and then decided to walk around. I wandered the streets that I have become so familiar with and then took a seat in front of the merry go round. I listened to the music while reading a bit more and then headed to the market. The main street that usually has some venders lining the street had twice as many today. At the very end was a lady selling some fruit. I tried the figs and they were amazing! I got four and headed to the bus.
It was about 3:20 and I was glad that I was a couple of minutes early. I sat and waited and then realized that my bus was to leave the hotel at 3:30...not this stop. I couldn't even look for the time that the bus would leave this stop because it did not have my bus schedule up. I sat and waited. I caught the 4:15 bus and was happy that I had a bus to take me home.
I decided to have the steak. Now, I am not a huge red meat person (I have cut back dramatically from my younger days) but they make some good steak here. A man asked me what I would have and I ordered. He said something that I did not understand so I said that I would also have a salad. He said "how do you want it cooked?" I said oh medium and he left. Now, this conversation may seen to have gone well to you, but really it made me feel like a moron. The way that the guy was talking to me was a bit ridiculing and when he started to speak English he raised his voice so everyone was looking at me. You may not think this is a big deal, but it kinda was.
I got my meal and it looked small. I cut a piece and it was DELICIOUS! There was some brown dressing on the side, I assumed mustard and tried the lettuce. It was okay. I went to taste the dressing, surprise! It was gravy. I am really glad I did not just pour it over my salad. The next slice of meat that I had was really rare and rare and rare. I am okay with medium rare but this was like pan seared, only the outside had cooked and it was immediately taken off. I am not putting pictures as I am sure my vegetarian friends would be quite disgusted. With the bread it was good and I finished my plate clean.
I read for a while at the table and then decided to walk around. I wandered the streets that I have become so familiar with and then took a seat in front of the merry go round. I listened to the music while reading a bit more and then headed to the market. The main street that usually has some venders lining the street had twice as many today. At the very end was a lady selling some fruit. I tried the figs and they were amazing! I got four and headed to the bus.
It was about 3:20 and I was glad that I was a couple of minutes early. I sat and waited and then realized that my bus was to leave the hotel at 3:30...not this stop. I couldn't even look for the time that the bus would leave this stop because it did not have my bus schedule up. I sat and waited. I caught the 4:15 bus and was happy that I had a bus to take me home.
Walking into Town
In between my wash and dry I headed up the street to get some breakfast. I ordered a croissant and a chocolate croissant. Let me tell you about this "croissant" is was amazing. It was warm and flaky, had a bit of crunch and every now and again you would get a hint of sweet. I loved every bite of it. Since it was late and I was planning to have lunch soon, I saved the chocolate one for either a snack or tomorrow's breakfast as I would be leaving early in the morning.
I headed back to the room, got my clothes in order, got everything that I needed and then was off to walk into town. Now you might be asking, "Stacey, why would you walk into town this time and not all the other times?" I will tell you why, because the buses have evil schedules on Sunday (note why I always choose Monday as my travel day). Basically there was a bus at 10:30, 11:30 and then starting at 2:30. I arrived back from the laundromat at 11:35 and wanted to have lunch in town so I set off on my walk.
Now that I had my bearings straight I headed in the direction of the center. Remember the first day that I got here and how lost I got? Well, it turns out I was about 15 minutes from the hotel. I was on the right street!! If only my directions said turn left at fork, I would have been set. Along the way I came across a HUGE grocery store. Now, it may not really be that big, but it is by far the largest I have seen in all of France. I grabbed a bottle of water for a record low and some laundry detergent that wound up being fabric softener.
I headed back to the room, got my clothes in order, got everything that I needed and then was off to walk into town. Now you might be asking, "Stacey, why would you walk into town this time and not all the other times?" I will tell you why, because the buses have evil schedules on Sunday (note why I always choose Monday as my travel day). Basically there was a bus at 10:30, 11:30 and then starting at 2:30. I arrived back from the laundromat at 11:35 and wanted to have lunch in town so I set off on my walk.
Now that I had my bearings straight I headed in the direction of the center. Remember the first day that I got here and how lost I got? Well, it turns out I was about 15 minutes from the hotel. I was on the right street!! If only my directions said turn left at fork, I would have been set. Along the way I came across a HUGE grocery store. Now, it may not really be that big, but it is by far the largest I have seen in all of France. I grabbed a bottle of water for a record low and some laundry detergent that wound up being fabric softener.
Clean Start
So up until this point, I have been extremely lucky with washing my clothes. You all remember my experience in Paris with the old man who did everything for me, then there was Fanny and Christian who took care of everything for me and in Marseille the washer and drier in the hostel that were just like the ones at my dorm. I have done pretty well.
This morning I set out to do one thing: laundry. I walked for twenty minutes and found the laundromat that I had been eying on my many bus rides to the hotel. It was a little whole in the wall place with three washing machines and one drier. One machine had 11 minutes left, one was being loaded by a woman and one was empty. I was excited by this and started to put my stuff in and then realized it was the large washer…I only had 7 days worth of clothes and did not need that one.
I waited for the second one to be done and waited and waited. After ten minutes I started to take the clothes out to put them on the table but then put them back. Is that bad manners? I have no read anything about laundry manners in France…The woman had left a bag on hers, at least if she was late someone could put her clothes in the bag. I stuffed all the clothes back into the washer and waited some more.
About twenty minutes from when the wash ended I decided this was crazy and started to take the clothes out again; of course the guy pulls up at that moment. I stuff all the clothes back in and he gives me a very dirty look as he walks in. He takes his stuff and we say goodbye. I put my clothes in, they are about 2/3 of a load. The washers are very small here and the people over stuff them to no end. According to the French standards, I had 1/5 of a load. They basically stuff it so that when the clothes are done at the end, there is no room to stick your hand in to pull the clothes out.
Anyway, with the twenty minute wait I had plenty of time to read the signs and try to figure out what the heck I was supposed to do. The lady who was putting her clothes in when I got there had already done the money part so I was out of luck. The washers had no place to put money and I was clueless. I finally figured out that all the money went in the machine that said “central de paiement” obviously…you put the money in, pushed the number of machine you wanted (this included the washer, drier, and soap dispenser) and then pushed start on the machine.
I returned in time to watch the last two minutes of my wash and then put it in the drier. It was only 1,00 for the drier and I was excited. Here is the fool that I am…it is 1,00 per ten minutes. I have jeans in there and only two euros on me. I guess we will see where I am in twenty minutes; surprisingly everything but my shorts were dry.
This morning I set out to do one thing: laundry. I walked for twenty minutes and found the laundromat that I had been eying on my many bus rides to the hotel. It was a little whole in the wall place with three washing machines and one drier. One machine had 11 minutes left, one was being loaded by a woman and one was empty. I was excited by this and started to put my stuff in and then realized it was the large washer…I only had 7 days worth of clothes and did not need that one.
I waited for the second one to be done and waited and waited. After ten minutes I started to take the clothes out to put them on the table but then put them back. Is that bad manners? I have no read anything about laundry manners in France…The woman had left a bag on hers, at least if she was late someone could put her clothes in the bag. I stuffed all the clothes back into the washer and waited some more.
About twenty minutes from when the wash ended I decided this was crazy and started to take the clothes out again; of course the guy pulls up at that moment. I stuff all the clothes back in and he gives me a very dirty look as he walks in. He takes his stuff and we say goodbye. I put my clothes in, they are about 2/3 of a load. The washers are very small here and the people over stuff them to no end. According to the French standards, I had 1/5 of a load. They basically stuff it so that when the clothes are done at the end, there is no room to stick your hand in to pull the clothes out.
Anyway, with the twenty minute wait I had plenty of time to read the signs and try to figure out what the heck I was supposed to do. The lady who was putting her clothes in when I got there had already done the money part so I was out of luck. The washers had no place to put money and I was clueless. I finally figured out that all the money went in the machine that said “central de paiement” obviously…you put the money in, pushed the number of machine you wanted (this included the washer, drier, and soap dispenser) and then pushed start on the machine.
I returned in time to watch the last two minutes of my wash and then put it in the drier. It was only 1,00 for the drier and I was excited. Here is the fool that I am…it is 1,00 per ten minutes. I have jeans in there and only two euros on me. I guess we will see where I am in twenty minutes; surprisingly everything but my shorts were dry.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Thermes Sextius
After lunch I headed back to Thermes Sextius. Let me give you some background: they guy who founded Aix was called Sextius. The whole name for the city is crazy ridiculous long but they were not sure if they would shorten the name to Sex or Aix, looking back, they are glad Aix was chosen.
I found the spa and headed in thinking that since there will be little to do on Sunday, the spa would be nice. The lady informed me that their prices had gone up and it was $55 just to get in. This is good for the sauna, turkish bath, sports section and a couple of other things. Massages started at $38. Not really feeling it, I found out they are not even open Sundays, which made my dilemma disappear.
I headed back into the center of town with no problems. There were two weddings that were about to happen or just happened outside of the courthouse. Watching all the fuss made me not want any of the fuss. I kept walking and found a homeless guy, who I saw the other day and watched for a bit. He seemed nice and so I gave my wrapped up sausage to him; he was very appreciative. I waited for the bus and then headed back for a quiet night.
I found the spa and headed in thinking that since there will be little to do on Sunday, the spa would be nice. The lady informed me that their prices had gone up and it was $55 just to get in. This is good for the sauna, turkish bath, sports section and a couple of other things. Massages started at $38. Not really feeling it, I found out they are not even open Sundays, which made my dilemma disappear.
I headed back into the center of town with no problems. There were two weddings that were about to happen or just happened outside of the courthouse. Watching all the fuss made me not want any of the fuss. I kept walking and found a homeless guy, who I saw the other day and watched for a bit. He seemed nice and so I gave my wrapped up sausage to him; he was very appreciative. I waited for the bus and then headed back for a quiet night.
L'Atelier des Arts
It took me about two days to get used to the buses and about four days to get used to the streets but I think that I am good now. I had passed a square with three cafes a bunch these last couple of days and decided to try it out. I wanted the one that had a good looking plat du jour but sat at the wrong table (had no idea where that restaurant was actually located).
The place I sat down at was called L'Atelier des Arts. Their plate of the day was "caille rotie sauce forestiere et farfalles." I asked the waitress what it was and she described it as a small chicken. I assumed that the farfalles was a type of pasta and decided to order it. While waiting I looked up the direct translation in my dictionary that Christian got me. It translates to "quail eggs sauce (unknown word) small bread." I am not going to lie, I was really worried about getting these quail eggs and not being able to down them...
My plate came out and it was a whole quail, salad, and bow tie pasta, I was delighted. The salad was just lettuce with a mustard dressing on it, the pasta had a mushroom cream sauce that was perfect after I added some salt and the quail was cooked to perfection with onions and tid bits of some other meat. I thoroughly enjoyed every single bite.
I decided to continue my lunch with the desert of the day "tarte pomme marron," I was expecting an apple tart. I got, an apple tart, but it had almost an apple sauce layer and it was just delectable. I think I have found my favorite restaurant...ever. I sat around and read my book for a bit and then was amused by the British family who sat nearby. They had a little girl who was blonde as can be and was talking up a storm, I couldn't help but to laugh at her accent.
Lunch was fabulous.
The place I sat down at was called L'Atelier des Arts. Their plate of the day was "caille rotie sauce forestiere et farfalles." I asked the waitress what it was and she described it as a small chicken. I assumed that the farfalles was a type of pasta and decided to order it. While waiting I looked up the direct translation in my dictionary that Christian got me. It translates to "quail eggs sauce (unknown word) small bread." I am not going to lie, I was really worried about getting these quail eggs and not being able to down them...
My plate came out and it was a whole quail, salad, and bow tie pasta, I was delighted. The salad was just lettuce with a mustard dressing on it, the pasta had a mushroom cream sauce that was perfect after I added some salt and the quail was cooked to perfection with onions and tid bits of some other meat. I thoroughly enjoyed every single bite.
I decided to continue my lunch with the desert of the day "tarte pomme marron," I was expecting an apple tart. I got, an apple tart, but it had almost an apple sauce layer and it was just delectable. I think I have found my favorite restaurant...ever. I sat around and read my book for a bit and then was amused by the British family who sat nearby. They had a little girl who was blonde as can be and was talking up a storm, I couldn't help but to laugh at her accent.
Lunch was fabulous.
Eat Sleep Eat Sleep
Today is like autumn just showed up this morning. It is warm but there is a crazy strong breeze, you know the one that says fall is here? There are some spots of the streets that are completely covered in leaves, it was wonderful to sit in the sun with the breeze-okay with the wind.
After I sat in the park people watching and reading I decided I should get one of those Greek pastries for dinner again. I headed off and got one before the market closed. Then I headed for lunch.
I know there are some of you out there that say that all I do is eat and sleep, well I feel that these last couple of days are just that. At first it was annoying to me to be here and that was all that I was doing, but I really feel lucky that this is all that I have to do. Also, I think that the travels are wearing me out (even though I have been staying in places for about a week at a time). I am finding Aix to be a lovely spot to just refresh myself for the next couple of weeks.
On that note, I continued to search for lunch.
After I sat in the park people watching and reading I decided I should get one of those Greek pastries for dinner again. I headed off and got one before the market closed. Then I headed for lunch.
I know there are some of you out there that say that all I do is eat and sleep, well I feel that these last couple of days are just that. At first it was annoying to me to be here and that was all that I was doing, but I really feel lucky that this is all that I have to do. Also, I think that the travels are wearing me out (even though I have been staying in places for about a week at a time). I am finding Aix to be a lovely spot to just refresh myself for the next couple of weeks.
On that note, I continued to search for lunch.
Tues, Thursday, Saturday Market
I just got back from the most wonderful market ever. I wish that I had these types of markets near me in America (Dekalb is close but no cigar). I guess we are getting closer to that with our farmer’s markets, but it is still nothing to compare. I am not quite sure how I missed this market, twice, this week. It is HUGE. I got near the square and there were trucks everywhere, I knew I was there. People were setting up their stands and had everything from cloth to clothes and shoes to pottery, there was even one vender with kitchen accessories (nothing I did not already have). They had some amazing mugs and plates, but they were a bit expensive and how am I going to get them to the US?
I continued on, surprised this was the big market of the town; then I saw it, the grocery section. It took up the whole square and venders were everywhere. There was honey, lavender, vanilla beans, tomatoes, veggies, fruits, rotisserie chicken, sausages, cheeses, olives, breads, everything you can think of. I set off for my “tour of the market.” This is basically my first go around of the market, looking at what there is to offer and the prices. I already had chicken so I crossed the delicious smelling food off of my list, I passed by a hummus/olive/greek place and crossed that off due to my pastry yesterday. There was a vender frying up chicken and (maybe) Indian food, it smelled god but I wanted to avoid the fried section.
I picked up some bread and melon to start. The vender for the melon was very nice, although I think he was saying that he would pick me out a melon, but I was not sure and picked one out myself. I am still not sure what produce you can get and they get for you, they are all laid out so why not melon? He cut it in two for me and I was off to look for more goodies.
At the daily market, I had tried some black olive puree, or something like it. It was on a small piece of bread and was very good. I decided to get some today but had no idea how to order it. I walked by one olive stand and they did not have the kind I wanted. I went to another and slowly strolled past trying to think of what to say. Nobody was there so it did not matter too much. I walked back when I saw a man talking to the vender, I was going to listen to him, but they were just chatting. I was up. I order a very small amount of it and got a heaping tablespoon. Now, this may not sound like a lot, but it is. Think of eating that much caviar at once or something, it is just not meant to be. It was less than a tenth of a pound and I got it, hoping I had enough bread.
The main dish, near the hummus guy there was someone selling breads and pizza like items that looked good and was pretty affordable. The guy was on the phone and I was not sure if I could handle a pastry dish cheese filled and topped with something meal. I saw one was tomatoes and one was supposed to be spinach, but it looked more like fish. I forget what the third one was and decided to keep walking. I got to the meat stand and decided I should try some sausage. Now, let me preface this with, I am not a sausage person. I never ate it until this past year when I would get the crappy sausage that comes with breakfast, that I was okay with. Anyway, I ordered a piece and hoped it would be just as good. I made my way to the park at the American Center and sat down on a bench.
It was time to try the sausage…I got out my knife and fork from the other day and sliced a piece, or tried to. There were chunks of meat in it. I closed my eyes and went for it – I had to force it down and yell at myself not to throw it up; so much for my main course. I have to say, I am quite impressed with all of the food and my likings up until this point. I wrapped the sausage back up and decided to give it to some homeless person later on. I enjoyed a relaxing and breezy breakfast (earliest yet!) in the park and then spent my time reading in the sun.
I continued on, surprised this was the big market of the town; then I saw it, the grocery section. It took up the whole square and venders were everywhere. There was honey, lavender, vanilla beans, tomatoes, veggies, fruits, rotisserie chicken, sausages, cheeses, olives, breads, everything you can think of. I set off for my “tour of the market.” This is basically my first go around of the market, looking at what there is to offer and the prices. I already had chicken so I crossed the delicious smelling food off of my list, I passed by a hummus/olive/greek place and crossed that off due to my pastry yesterday. There was a vender frying up chicken and (maybe) Indian food, it smelled god but I wanted to avoid the fried section.
I picked up some bread and melon to start. The vender for the melon was very nice, although I think he was saying that he would pick me out a melon, but I was not sure and picked one out myself. I am still not sure what produce you can get and they get for you, they are all laid out so why not melon? He cut it in two for me and I was off to look for more goodies.
At the daily market, I had tried some black olive puree, or something like it. It was on a small piece of bread and was very good. I decided to get some today but had no idea how to order it. I walked by one olive stand and they did not have the kind I wanted. I went to another and slowly strolled past trying to think of what to say. Nobody was there so it did not matter too much. I walked back when I saw a man talking to the vender, I was going to listen to him, but they were just chatting. I was up. I order a very small amount of it and got a heaping tablespoon. Now, this may not sound like a lot, but it is. Think of eating that much caviar at once or something, it is just not meant to be. It was less than a tenth of a pound and I got it, hoping I had enough bread.
The main dish, near the hummus guy there was someone selling breads and pizza like items that looked good and was pretty affordable. The guy was on the phone and I was not sure if I could handle a pastry dish cheese filled and topped with something meal. I saw one was tomatoes and one was supposed to be spinach, but it looked more like fish. I forget what the third one was and decided to keep walking. I got to the meat stand and decided I should try some sausage. Now, let me preface this with, I am not a sausage person. I never ate it until this past year when I would get the crappy sausage that comes with breakfast, that I was okay with. Anyway, I ordered a piece and hoped it would be just as good. I made my way to the park at the American Center and sat down on a bench.
It was time to try the sausage…I got out my knife and fork from the other day and sliced a piece, or tried to. There were chunks of meat in it. I closed my eyes and went for it – I had to force it down and yell at myself not to throw it up; so much for my main course. I have to say, I am quite impressed with all of the food and my likings up until this point. I wrapped the sausage back up and decided to give it to some homeless person later on. I enjoyed a relaxing and breezy breakfast (earliest yet!) in the park and then spent my time reading in the sun.
Friday, August 27, 2010
So that's why there are so many toilets on the streets...
On my way back to the center, I found the Hot Springs. I could have asked to see them but I decided against it. I found my way back to the center of town and was determine to find a real bathroom and not just one on the street. I sat down to get a drink, that I really did not want, I saw it was 3,50 and decided it would be better to spend the 2,00 on the bus to the hotel and back when an idea hit me. There is a department store nearby, I shall go there.
I found it pretty easily and went off looking for signs for the restroom…none! I decided if I bought something, they would be more likely to tell me where the restrooms were. I was running low on deodorant and bought a small one for about 4,50. I then asked where the restrooms were and was told, there are none (three floors and no restroom…) I do not get where the French go to use the restroom when they are out and about, really I have NO idea!!
Anyway, I headed back to the bus stop and waited. The bus arrived and I went to get on. I was asked to move so a guy could get on and I did. He was the new bus driver. They said something so I got off of the bus, they repeated it with hand movements, so I got on the bus and went to a seat without paying. At the end of my ride I went to pay and the bus driver was like just go - FREE RIDE wahoo! (I know, really not that exciting, I guess it is the college kid in me though)
Pavillion de Vendome
So when I woke up this morning, it looked like it was about to rain. I bummed around for a couple of hours, hoping I would miss the rain but it did not rain. I decided to head out anyways, with my trusty umbrella, and hope for the best. I got to the bus stop just as the bus was arriving. Someone got off and someone stayed on talking to the driver. Now, my stop is the last stop, so the bus usually sits for 5 minutes before they take off. When they are ready, they open the doors, change the destination on the sign, take people and head off. Well, when this lady bus driver got done talking to her friend, who stayed on the bus, she took off. Left me there, like a fool! Never opened the doors, or looked to see if someone was waiting…ridiculous! I stayed at the stop and about 10 minutes later a new bus came. The doors opened, people got off, he sat for a while, the sign changed, doors opened, I got on.
I read last night that there is a little French garden near the Thermes Sexius hot springs. I went to the daily market and got a spinach and feta Greek pastry thing with no problem. I walked around and decided to get a nectarine, while looking for one that was ripe and not dirty (some had sand and dirt on them, I got in trouble for “squeezing” the fruit. I went back to the cheese stand from the other day and I picked a cheese that looked similar to the Comte (it was some summer cheese, but I cannot remember the name of it). I ordered a small piece of it and the guy showed how big, I said no smaller, and he cut that size…figures. It wound up being 4,00! I was happy he did not show me a piece bigger! Turns out this cheese was about 30,00/kg. As I paid, all I could think was, please do not be strong and let me be able to eat it…. Even though I had a nectarine, I could not resist getting another melon and then I was on my way.
I had good directions and just needed to make two more quick stops. I found a place for a large bottle of water for 0,30 and a bakery for a baguette. I found the park easily. It is located at 32 Rue Celony behind a fence and is called Pavillon de Vendome. It was very pretty and well taken care of. The French are not into letting things go naturally, they like everything to be well manicured. I sat and enjoyed my food, deciding to save the nectarine and spinach thing for lunch. The cheese was delicious (although I am still trying to get used to warm cheese) and I had left over melon and bread. The melon did not taste up to par, but I could not tell if it was not as good as the others, or since it was not as hot, it was not as delicious to me. I wrapped up my leftovers and headed out happy it did not rain and that my tummy was full.
An Italian Dinner in France
These trips back into town really add up, I hope I did not make the mistake of booking any other places outside of the main town… I caught the bus just as I arrived to the station and began to wander. I found that the venders from last night were setting up again and enjoyed my leisurely stroll to the end of Cours Mirabeau. During my stroll I found out that I was correct earlier and that there was a fruit and veggie market other than the daily one further away and I had not messed that up. I will investigate that on Saturday.
All of the restaurants in Aix are really expensive and I did not feel like spending that kind of money on dinner. The Italian places were cheaper but even to sit down it was a bit much for what I was feeling. I found a pizza place that was insanely busy and people were getting slices and pies to go…I decided to get into line. The girl got to me and asked if I had ordered and I said yes (oops). After everyone else left she asked me what I would like and I ordered two cheese slices and a sprite. I found a bench across the street, near the street vendors and enjoyed people watching with my dinner.
I really did not want the second slice, but they were small and I got two because I needed to eat two! So I forced the second one down and decided to head back to the hotel. The bus was now only running three times an hour and when I got to the bus station, of course there was no schedule of the times. I asked an old man what time it was…and two minutes later, a bus! It was perfect timing and my day ended with a full tummy.
All of the restaurants in Aix are really expensive and I did not feel like spending that kind of money on dinner. The Italian places were cheaper but even to sit down it was a bit much for what I was feeling. I found a pizza place that was insanely busy and people were getting slices and pies to go…I decided to get into line. The girl got to me and asked if I had ordered and I said yes (oops). After everyone else left she asked me what I would like and I ordered two cheese slices and a sprite. I found a bench across the street, near the street vendors and enjoyed people watching with my dinner.
I really did not want the second slice, but they were small and I got two because I needed to eat two! So I forced the second one down and decided to head back to the hotel. The bus was now only running three times an hour and when I got to the bus station, of course there was no schedule of the times. I asked an old man what time it was…and two minutes later, a bus! It was perfect timing and my day ended with a full tummy.
Cooling Off
Okay, I stayed out as long as I could but decided to head back to the hotel, it was hot. I got back and decided to check the weather since I just know it is hot…well today at 4pm it is 88*. Usually you think 88* and you are all, oh that is so nice, yay summer, wish I was by the beach… but when you are traveling, not near the water and wearing a book bag, and doing lots of walking, it is not so great. Anyway, I after thinking about it, I realized that it was a whole lot cooler though than it was in St. Sulpice sur Leze, so I decided to check the temperature there…oh yea 102*. These things help me make sense of my inability to stop sweating. I am glad that I had a month in New Mexico to get used to 100+ degree heat and no air conditioning…
I got back to the hotel and played around on the computer for a bit. I know, I know, I am in France what am I doing?! It is really hard though having the hotel so far away and it being so hot and getting all sweaty. I spent a really really really long time looking up how to get from Aix to Sault to explore for the day. The trains were out (14 hours!) and the buses…I could not navigate the website in French. I tried Avignon and had the same issues. I found that there are some good hiking trails a 30 minute walk from the center of town, but of course I could not find any directions more clear than that. Plus, with some more research it seemed that the hikes were a bit intense for my flip flops.
I decided to stop being smelly and take a shower … it was the most wonderful shower I can remember (other than the fact that the bathroom floor was filled with water when I was done – really, why no door or curtain? I used the new shampoo I bought (instead of the hotel’s) and moisturized my arms and legs, which badly needed it (I was getting ashy). I decided now that I am cooled off and smell delicious, I will go back into town.
I got back to the hotel and played around on the computer for a bit. I know, I know, I am in France what am I doing?! It is really hard though having the hotel so far away and it being so hot and getting all sweaty. I spent a really really really long time looking up how to get from Aix to Sault to explore for the day. The trains were out (14 hours!) and the buses…I could not navigate the website in French. I tried Avignon and had the same issues. I found that there are some good hiking trails a 30 minute walk from the center of town, but of course I could not find any directions more clear than that. Plus, with some more research it seemed that the hikes were a bit intense for my flip flops.
I decided to stop being smelly and take a shower … it was the most wonderful shower I can remember (other than the fact that the bathroom floor was filled with water when I was done – really, why no door or curtain? I used the new shampoo I bought (instead of the hotel’s) and moisturized my arms and legs, which badly needed it (I was getting ashy). I decided now that I am cooled off and smell delicious, I will go back into town.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Early Morning in Aix
So I woke up early and headed to town. Today there is supposed to be a fruit and veggie market and so I went to find it. Right away I came across a clothing market and strolled down it leisurely. Dresses for 15euro, shoes for 30euro, underwear for 10euro a piece, table clothes 20euro. It was nice, pretty long too, but not what I wanted. I decided that I must have misread something and this was the market, so I headed to the daily market by the town hall to get my meal for the day.
Today I picked up half of a chicken (with fork and knife) and a melon. When I asked for the melon to be cut, my melon was put back and they chose one for me. The lady cut it for me and was surprised that I did not want it cut in fourths or eights or that I did not want her to take the pulp out. I figure the more it is cut, the more juices, the more likely it will leak. I kept the pulp so that the inside stayed moist.
I headed to two “grocery stores” to find water and then was off to get some bread. I bought it at my trusty “Paul,” although I have decided they are overpriced for the basics. I then headed to find a park. I walked on the right street, in the right direction and should have passed two parks, but I saw none. I wound up somewhere far off the map and decided to turn around.
I picked a new park and finally found “the park.” It was just a bench on some cement with a fountain in the middle, I was bummed but found a bench and took out my chicken. After one bite, I put my chicken back in the bag and decided to look for another park. I found a nearby spot that was so pretty, walked in a circle to get to the one entrance and then saw the sign saying for people who use the building only. I had no idea what the building was and I saw two normal looking people with a baby inside. I decided not to take any chances; there were nuns everywhere on the block, so I walked away in search of yesterday’s park.
Two and a half hours from when I started this morning, I found an acceptable park and sat down. My breakfast/lunch was good and I decided to cool off for a while. Read my book. Maybe later I would look for another park or the Thermes Sextius Hot Springs Spa. For now, I would just let the sweat dry from my back.
Today I picked up half of a chicken (with fork and knife) and a melon. When I asked for the melon to be cut, my melon was put back and they chose one for me. The lady cut it for me and was surprised that I did not want it cut in fourths or eights or that I did not want her to take the pulp out. I figure the more it is cut, the more juices, the more likely it will leak. I kept the pulp so that the inside stayed moist.
I headed to two “grocery stores” to find water and then was off to get some bread. I bought it at my trusty “Paul,” although I have decided they are overpriced for the basics. I then headed to find a park. I walked on the right street, in the right direction and should have passed two parks, but I saw none. I wound up somewhere far off the map and decided to turn around.
I picked a new park and finally found “the park.” It was just a bench on some cement with a fountain in the middle, I was bummed but found a bench and took out my chicken. After one bite, I put my chicken back in the bag and decided to look for another park. I found a nearby spot that was so pretty, walked in a circle to get to the one entrance and then saw the sign saying for people who use the building only. I had no idea what the building was and I saw two normal looking people with a baby inside. I decided not to take any chances; there were nuns everywhere on the block, so I walked away in search of yesterday’s park.
Two and a half hours from when I started this morning, I found an acceptable park and sat down. My breakfast/lunch was good and I decided to cool off for a while. Read my book. Maybe later I would look for another park or the Thermes Sextius Hot Springs Spa. For now, I would just let the sweat dry from my back.
Dinner at the Hotel
After my phone interview, I decided to stay in the hotel for the night. I ate at La Table Restaurant on the terrace. There were 5 men sitting alone, 5 couples, and 2 women sitting alone (me being one of them). There were four large trees covering the sky and lights strung all around. It really was quite pretty and I was not expecting it.
I did well with the French for a while but then the waiter needed to know my room number. I knew how to say one hundred but was stuck on the fifty part so I just said “one fifty-nine” he laughed and repeated it; then showed me what he wrote to make sure he got it correct. Then he asked for my name and spelled it “Ste…” and he stopped. Apparently it is not a common name here. Then he asked for my phone number, said no, laughed and walked off. He was the main guy taking care of me although in the restaurants all of the waiters serve and help all of the tables (sine they do not work for tips). He told me the plat of the day and I got that (chicken with veggies in a curry sauce). It was okay, forced myself to eat the whole thing as I knew I needed the food.
Another guy came by to ask if I was done. I said yes; no coffee not dessert and he took my ticket and left. Was I supposed to pay? Was it put on my room tab? I had heard the female serving speaking English to someone earlier and grabbed her and asked if I could leave. She smiled and said yes, I would pay when I checked out of the hotel. C’est bon.
I did well with the French for a while but then the waiter needed to know my room number. I knew how to say one hundred but was stuck on the fifty part so I just said “one fifty-nine” he laughed and repeated it; then showed me what he wrote to make sure he got it correct. Then he asked for my name and spelled it “Ste…” and he stopped. Apparently it is not a common name here. Then he asked for my phone number, said no, laughed and walked off. He was the main guy taking care of me although in the restaurants all of the waiters serve and help all of the tables (sine they do not work for tips). He told me the plat of the day and I got that (chicken with veggies in a curry sauce). It was okay, forced myself to eat the whole thing as I knew I needed the food.
Another guy came by to ask if I was done. I said yes; no coffee not dessert and he took my ticket and left. Was I supposed to pay? Was it put on my room tab? I had heard the female serving speaking English to someone earlier and grabbed her and asked if I could leave. She smiled and said yes, I would pay when I checked out of the hotel. C’est bon.
Upcoming Plans
I went back to the train station to get my tickets for the next couple of trips and the lady was a bit shocked and irritated. I understood it that I did not have to pay for the regional trains, but that I still needed a ticket to stamp – WRONG! I just needed my Eurail pass and I was good to go. She then explained this to me about three more ways, just to be sure I got it. Then she printed out the itinerary for Nice for me. That was actually great and I wanted one for Florence too, but I figured I would not try my luck with her any more. I will try to get that in Nice, reassurance for me…
My interview for the kibbutz went well and we are just waiting for an okay from the farmer. It is a small farm near the beach and there are no more than 4 volunteers at one time. They are also the only place around that will have volunteers for less than 2 ½ months, so it works out perfectly. I am a bit intimidated about the work that I will be doing, but it being October, I am sure the sun will not be too much for me.
I am making some plans to meet up with a friend from school. She will be in Italy for a while working and we thought it a perfect opportunity. We are working on four situations 1) meet in Italy 2) meet in Germany 3) meet in France 4) meet halfway between her in Italy and me in France – I know those are pretty much all of our options, but we are taking our time and waiting for me to find out about the tutoring program.
My interview for the kibbutz went well and we are just waiting for an okay from the farmer. It is a small farm near the beach and there are no more than 4 volunteers at one time. They are also the only place around that will have volunteers for less than 2 ½ months, so it works out perfectly. I am a bit intimidated about the work that I will be doing, but it being October, I am sure the sun will not be too much for me.
I am making some plans to meet up with a friend from school. She will be in Italy for a while working and we thought it a perfect opportunity. We are working on four situations 1) meet in Italy 2) meet in Germany 3) meet in France 4) meet halfway between her in Italy and me in France – I know those are pretty much all of our options, but we are taking our time and waiting for me to find out about the tutoring program.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
The Beautiful Aix
Okay, so I had a pretty crappy first and second day in Aix, according to the standards that I had set but today is a new day and it is wonderful. I woke up and caught the bus into town. I found my way to the daily market (which is the one that I caught yesterday). It was early though so there were a lot more things to see and enjoy. I decided that I would get my breakfast here and enjoy it in the park that I was determined to find today.
I found a cheese vendor, who also sold ham and bread. I watched as the man in front of me showed the woman with his hands, how much of the bread he wanted. When it was my turn, I did the same with the cheese. I got cheese that looked like Swiss and some Camot (I think that is right). The second cheese I first tried with Christian and Fanny and enjoyed greatly. It is a mild cheese that reminds me of something that I am used to, but cannot put my finger on.
I then found a man selling the melons that I also enjoyed at Christian and Fanny’s. I picked one out and paid the man. I stood for a minute and then asked him to cut it, it was the most vibrant shade of orange that I have seen in a melon. He was pleased to show it to me and I was pleased I no longer had to crack it on a rock to open it (okay maybe not a good idea with a melon but I had no other ideas).
I found my way to the streets that I was looking for and kept an eye open for a bakery. I passed a few but none that sold salads or items to go, so I did not think that I could get plastic ware, so I kept going. I made my way to the college and found the American center…I am an American, what have they got for me? I kept walking and saw that there was a park attached to the center and decided that is where I shall enjoy my breakfast.
I backtracked a bit to get the bakery and ordered some bread. Then I asked for plastic utensils (which puzzled her as all I got was bread) and voila, I was ready for breakfast. I found a shady bench and laid everything out (picture to be uploaded in the future). It may not have been a feast, but it was a feat for me and my feast. I wound up starting my breakfast at 10 and finishing at 11, which was perfect for me. I wrapped up the leftover melon, cheese and bread and found a partially shaded partially sunny spot to lay my towel down.
Every time that I come across a park and sit for a while, I really do just fall in love with life and nature. I have been able to visit many parks during this trip and each time I have thought to myself “what a most perfect day”. The number of times that I have said this on my trip is more than I think I have said my entire life combined. The perfect temperature, sunny spots, warm breeze, it is unmatchable. I told my friend that I was going to the park today and they said “and then what?” It made me smile because that was it.
I am so glad that I was able to take this trip in August and enjoy the weather and nature around me. It was brought to my attention that WWOOFing in the winter, although possible, might not be that great (staying with the same people 24-7 and it being too cold to see or do anything else). I thought about my original plan of WWOOFing the whole time or maybe in the summer/spring and leaving winter to wander; if this had happened none of my wonderful days in the park would have been possible. Someone mentioned that the best time to go to the beach (in this area) is September, I may have to check that out again in the future…
I found a cheese vendor, who also sold ham and bread. I watched as the man in front of me showed the woman with his hands, how much of the bread he wanted. When it was my turn, I did the same with the cheese. I got cheese that looked like Swiss and some Camot (I think that is right). The second cheese I first tried with Christian and Fanny and enjoyed greatly. It is a mild cheese that reminds me of something that I am used to, but cannot put my finger on.
I then found a man selling the melons that I also enjoyed at Christian and Fanny’s. I picked one out and paid the man. I stood for a minute and then asked him to cut it, it was the most vibrant shade of orange that I have seen in a melon. He was pleased to show it to me and I was pleased I no longer had to crack it on a rock to open it (okay maybe not a good idea with a melon but I had no other ideas).
I found my way to the streets that I was looking for and kept an eye open for a bakery. I passed a few but none that sold salads or items to go, so I did not think that I could get plastic ware, so I kept going. I made my way to the college and found the American center…I am an American, what have they got for me? I kept walking and saw that there was a park attached to the center and decided that is where I shall enjoy my breakfast.
I backtracked a bit to get the bakery and ordered some bread. Then I asked for plastic utensils (which puzzled her as all I got was bread) and voila, I was ready for breakfast. I found a shady bench and laid everything out (picture to be uploaded in the future). It may not have been a feast, but it was a feat for me and my feast. I wound up starting my breakfast at 10 and finishing at 11, which was perfect for me. I wrapped up the leftover melon, cheese and bread and found a partially shaded partially sunny spot to lay my towel down.
Every time that I come across a park and sit for a while, I really do just fall in love with life and nature. I have been able to visit many parks during this trip and each time I have thought to myself “what a most perfect day”. The number of times that I have said this on my trip is more than I think I have said my entire life combined. The perfect temperature, sunny spots, warm breeze, it is unmatchable. I told my friend that I was going to the park today and they said “and then what?” It made me smile because that was it.
I am so glad that I was able to take this trip in August and enjoy the weather and nature around me. It was brought to my attention that WWOOFing in the winter, although possible, might not be that great (staying with the same people 24-7 and it being too cold to see or do anything else). I thought about my original plan of WWOOFing the whole time or maybe in the summer/spring and leaving winter to wander; if this had happened none of my wonderful days in the park would have been possible. Someone mentioned that the best time to go to the beach (in this area) is September, I may have to check that out again in the future…
Marseille (Late Post...Ooops)
Reflections on Marseille
Apparently I was the only one to visit Chateau d’If yesterday, I was glad that I did. I think that I spent more money in Marseille than Paris, but I cannot be sure. In Paris I got the rail pass which really was wonderful for me, allowing me to get lost and feel that I could always get back. In Marseille, I did not get the tourist pass, which allowed all free public access, free trips to the museums, etc. It was about 26,00 and I did not think that I would use it enough to make it worth it (I think I spent 12,00 on public transport and then 15,00 for Chateau d’If, which was not included in the tourist pass). I did not visit any museums and I am really happy with how my visit went. It was three days and that was perfect. I enjoyed checking out the beaches, Chateau d’If and the streets. I did not find any of the “dungy” markets that I read about or that Kylie ran into. At first I was interested in that, but when I got there I decided not to go searching and I am good with not having seen it. Being a sea town, I did enjoy some seafood that I may not have tried elsewhere.
It was really nice to be with such a nice group of people in Marseille and I am a little sad that I will be in Aix alone. It is nice to travel alone, but always be able to meet back with people; Aix did not have any hostels and I am sure I will enjoy wandering the streets and finding my favorite bakery. I will be looking out for some lavender fields, I hope that they have not all be cut down.
Yesterday, when walking back from the spot I swam in for a bit, the street that has fish and flower venders in the morning was filled with venders selling magnets, knickknacks, doodads, etc. They had lots of lavender, lavender sashays, hand towels with pictures of lavender, lavender soaps, etc. I decided against buying any and am still in hopes of finding some fresh lavender on my own :)
Apparently I was the only one to visit Chateau d’If yesterday, I was glad that I did. I think that I spent more money in Marseille than Paris, but I cannot be sure. In Paris I got the rail pass which really was wonderful for me, allowing me to get lost and feel that I could always get back. In Marseille, I did not get the tourist pass, which allowed all free public access, free trips to the museums, etc. It was about 26,00 and I did not think that I would use it enough to make it worth it (I think I spent 12,00 on public transport and then 15,00 for Chateau d’If, which was not included in the tourist pass). I did not visit any museums and I am really happy with how my visit went. It was three days and that was perfect. I enjoyed checking out the beaches, Chateau d’If and the streets. I did not find any of the “dungy” markets that I read about or that Kylie ran into. At first I was interested in that, but when I got there I decided not to go searching and I am good with not having seen it. Being a sea town, I did enjoy some seafood that I may not have tried elsewhere.
It was really nice to be with such a nice group of people in Marseille and I am a little sad that I will be in Aix alone. It is nice to travel alone, but always be able to meet back with people; Aix did not have any hostels and I am sure I will enjoy wandering the streets and finding my favorite bakery. I will be looking out for some lavender fields, I hope that they have not all be cut down.
Yesterday, when walking back from the spot I swam in for a bit, the street that has fish and flower venders in the morning was filled with venders selling magnets, knickknacks, doodads, etc. They had lots of lavender, lavender sashays, hand towels with pictures of lavender, lavender soaps, etc. I decided against buying any and am still in hopes of finding some fresh lavender on my own :)
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Trapped in Aix
I basically spent the rest of my time being trapped in the center of town. Now, I don't mind people watching but I mean I was sick of these streets, I saw everything they had to offer and I had to wait to get food to take back to the hotel as I did not want to spend 20,00 on dinner at the hotel. Some homeless guy was talking to the pizza man (I saw this yesterday) and then the bum was crossing the street when a car was coming and he knelt down, then held his arm out...kind of like, run me over please. Finally he got up and the guy drove away irritated. I found it amusing as the pizza guy seemed to think the guy was cool so I assumed he was as well. That was my mistake, the guy sat down next to me, let me say he was about 70 years old and sat really really close to me (not near my bag, which has a combo lock on it anyways). He started to talk to me and after I said I was American I waited about 30 seconds and said I had to go, blatantly obvious it was not the case. He was just too close for comfort though.
I decided to scope out where to get my dinner. I found a spot and was just waiting for the time to pass. When the time was right, I went to order and...they were out. I went to my second choice, they were no longer serving food. I don't know what it is with this place, but nobody seems to have the food they say they have. I mean I should be happy, this means they are into fresh items (I hope) but it is just frusterating. 30 minutes later I found a place that seemed acceptable and had take away and I got my "chwarma" to go. It was made like the fat sandwiches at Rutgers; lettuce, tomato, meat, and fries all in one. It just so happened to be in a tortilla and Forman grilled though. I took it and went to take the bus, which arrived on time, stopped where it should, and took me to the hotel...all with no problems.
I decided to scope out where to get my dinner. I found a spot and was just waiting for the time to pass. When the time was right, I went to order and...they were out. I went to my second choice, they were no longer serving food. I don't know what it is with this place, but nobody seems to have the food they say they have. I mean I should be happy, this means they are into fresh items (I hope) but it is just frusterating. 30 minutes later I found a place that seemed acceptable and had take away and I got my "chwarma" to go. It was made like the fat sandwiches at Rutgers; lettuce, tomato, meat, and fries all in one. It just so happened to be in a tortilla and Forman grilled though. I took it and went to take the bus, which arrived on time, stopped where it should, and took me to the hotel...all with no problems.
Strawberries and a Funeral
Wasting Time
I really just wanted to find a park after lunch, but all of the parks are far away. There is one "park" nearby and I walked by it yesterday but it was just gravel and benches. Yesterday the park was closed so just bums were inside of the gates. I decided it was not worth trying to get to and found a spot on the street to enjoy some more of my book.
After a while I bought a super delicious looking strawberry custard pastry to make up for last night's lame birthday cookie. I put it in my bag and headed to the train station. I wanted to make sure that I had the times of the train right and see how much a reservation would be (well I did not think there would be a reservation needed, but after I was tricked in Toulouse, I wanted to be sure). I got there and could not find my Eurail pass, I knew I put it aside this morning, but I must have forgotten to pack it. I spoke to the woman and she confirmed the times that I had and that it would be free to get from Nice to Florence with the trains that I picked out (wahoo Eurail!).
While looking for my Eurail pass, I realized my strawberry tart was leaking and so after I dealt with my tickets I headed outside to eat it. A nice lady was sitting outside and said "bon appetite" to me and told me she only had a soda for her lunch. Then she told me to watch my bag (or her cheek hurt). I was in the corner and nobody was around but I thanked her and kept my bag close (I have been to much worse spots, but a reminder is always nice). This is the point when I say how much I have been eating and how fat I feel, but my stomach and legs and body ache from walking so much, so I am guessing I am not really gaining too much weight at all!
I really just wanted to go back to the hotel, but having to pay to get back and forth, I forced myself to stay in the city. At least there are places to sit, even if they are not parks. I found where bus #6 will pick me up and waited to make sure it came, then I asked the tourist information booth about seeing lavender and possibly taking a trip to Sault, as they are higher up and may still have some that has not been cut. They were of no help, but that is okay.
It was getting hot and I had no place to really go but then I found one of the churches, that was closed yesterday, open today. I meandered in and it was wonderfully cool. I sat in an inconspicuous place, took the view in, and then pulled out my map to investigate some parks that had to be closer. The preist guy who was wearing a robe like a monk was talking to some guy who was playing with a music type thing. Three people came in and then so did the coffin. I stood and sat when they did and did my best to stay silent. It was a big church and only three people, the priest and me, it is sad to think about who was in there and how those were the only ones to attend. Nobody, but me, cried and then we all followed the priest out (I was hinted to, which is a good thing as the doors were locked behind me).
I really just wanted to find a park after lunch, but all of the parks are far away. There is one "park" nearby and I walked by it yesterday but it was just gravel and benches. Yesterday the park was closed so just bums were inside of the gates. I decided it was not worth trying to get to and found a spot on the street to enjoy some more of my book.
After a while I bought a super delicious looking strawberry custard pastry to make up for last night's lame birthday cookie. I put it in my bag and headed to the train station. I wanted to make sure that I had the times of the train right and see how much a reservation would be (well I did not think there would be a reservation needed, but after I was tricked in Toulouse, I wanted to be sure). I got there and could not find my Eurail pass, I knew I put it aside this morning, but I must have forgotten to pack it. I spoke to the woman and she confirmed the times that I had and that it would be free to get from Nice to Florence with the trains that I picked out (wahoo Eurail!).
While looking for my Eurail pass, I realized my strawberry tart was leaking and so after I dealt with my tickets I headed outside to eat it. A nice lady was sitting outside and said "bon appetite" to me and told me she only had a soda for her lunch. Then she told me to watch my bag (or her cheek hurt). I was in the corner and nobody was around but I thanked her and kept my bag close (I have been to much worse spots, but a reminder is always nice). This is the point when I say how much I have been eating and how fat I feel, but my stomach and legs and body ache from walking so much, so I am guessing I am not really gaining too much weight at all!
I really just wanted to go back to the hotel, but having to pay to get back and forth, I forced myself to stay in the city. At least there are places to sit, even if they are not parks. I found where bus #6 will pick me up and waited to make sure it came, then I asked the tourist information booth about seeing lavender and possibly taking a trip to Sault, as they are higher up and may still have some that has not been cut. They were of no help, but that is okay.
It was getting hot and I had no place to really go but then I found one of the churches, that was closed yesterday, open today. I meandered in and it was wonderfully cool. I sat in an inconspicuous place, took the view in, and then pulled out my map to investigate some parks that had to be closer. The preist guy who was wearing a robe like a monk was talking to some guy who was playing with a music type thing. Three people came in and then so did the coffin. I stood and sat when they did and did my best to stay silent. It was a big church and only three people, the priest and me, it is sad to think about who was in there and how those were the only ones to attend. Nobody, but me, cried and then we all followed the priest out (I was hinted to, which is a good thing as the doors were locked behind me).
Tour of Aix and Market
I decided to take today slow after yesterday. I woke up late, chatted online for a bit and then headed off. I caught the bus with no problem and was going to get something to eat but remembered that there was an English Tour for Old City Aix at 10. I headed straight there (it was 9:52). After I bought my ticket (thank you student age for the cheap price) I caught my tour just as they were off.
The lady was very nice and there were about 20 of us. The tour took me to most of the places I got lost in yesterday, although there were some new places. Also, I learned about the "rules of Aix" and how no building can have more than three floors, all of the buildings have to have aligned balconies, etc. I thought that it was an hour, but it was two. It was an okay tour if I only had a day or two in Aix, but I have a week! I grabbed only a couple of photos and then headed to get some food.
We had past a market during the tour and I immediately returned to it. It was just fruits and veggies so I got myself a nectarine before the vendors packed up and then headed to the phone store. Now, I bought a phone number and minutes on my computer through Skype, but for whatever reason last night it did not work. I called Justin and my sister and both called me back and when we connected nobody could hear anything. Since I have my "interview" with the kibbutz tomorrow, I decided I needed a more reliable source and so I bought a phone (so much for saving money with the Skype number!). I need to try it tonight as during the day I was having issues getting the calls to go through.
After all of that, I was starving and headed to a cafe. Now, I know that I mentioned Marseille had a lot of cultures intertwined and there were a lot of Italian places to eat, but in Aix, it is French and Italian. I wanted to stick with French, but it was too expensive so I went with the Italian. I got lasagna and salad, which was really good but it was so hot (I really did not want hot food but I had few options). I soaked up the sauce and read a bit of my book.
The lady was very nice and there were about 20 of us. The tour took me to most of the places I got lost in yesterday, although there were some new places. Also, I learned about the "rules of Aix" and how no building can have more than three floors, all of the buildings have to have aligned balconies, etc. I thought that it was an hour, but it was two. It was an okay tour if I only had a day or two in Aix, but I have a week! I grabbed only a couple of photos and then headed to get some food.
We had past a market during the tour and I immediately returned to it. It was just fruits and veggies so I got myself a nectarine before the vendors packed up and then headed to the phone store. Now, I bought a phone number and minutes on my computer through Skype, but for whatever reason last night it did not work. I called Justin and my sister and both called me back and when we connected nobody could hear anything. Since I have my "interview" with the kibbutz tomorrow, I decided I needed a more reliable source and so I bought a phone (so much for saving money with the Skype number!). I need to try it tonight as during the day I was having issues getting the calls to go through.
After all of that, I was starving and headed to a cafe. Now, I know that I mentioned Marseille had a lot of cultures intertwined and there were a lot of Italian places to eat, but in Aix, it is French and Italian. I wanted to stick with French, but it was too expensive so I went with the Italian. I got lasagna and salad, which was really good but it was so hot (I really did not want hot food but I had few options). I soaked up the sauce and read a bit of my book.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Hitchin' A Ride
It was only 8:00 but I decided I should head back to the hotel in case I had any problems. I was told that the last bus arrives at the hotel at 10:30; with a 7 minute ride I figured I would not have a problem catching a bus. After walking the way I went to the hotel, I realized that was not the route of the bus and had to turn around. I found a bus stop and waited. Three minutes before the bus came, a family drove up and rolled down their window. They said something but all I could really assume and make out is that the bus was not stopping here today. I got that idea from a poster that was hanging up and what sounded like “no autobus ici” (no bus here). I thanked them and began to walk to where I figured the next stop would be. About one minute later, my bus drove past me. To say I was upset, is not even close to correct. I now had 15 minutes to find the next stop and wait.
I found the next stop and some delivery guy on a motorcycle came up to me and said something. He repeated it for me and I still had no idea. He waved his arm and drove off. I figured it was not that important. Five minutes before my new bus should come another car stopped to tell me something. I mean what else am I to assume other than the buses will not stop here, but where? The center of town did NOT have a #6 bus stop, I know because I walked around twice and looked at the bus route map thrice. I gathered that he was offering me a ride and I took him up on it, now that it was about 9:45 at night and getting dark. I got into the car and we began to drive, I realized in the wrong direction and told him where I was going. He had no idea and I pulled out my map. His name was Michel, I am guessing around 40. Nice guy, passed some gas during the trip but he rolled down the window. I told him that I was on vacation in France until December and that I wanted to stay in the center of Aix, but my hotel is far away (okay I did not say all of that, but I wanted to and may have in small bits and pieces). I told him I just ate but did not know the name of the place. He kept talking about eating at Magdaline’s and I had no idea. I got to the hotel, thanked him profusely as now it was very dark and left. (Michel, if you ever happen to come across this and read it, and you understand any of it...merci merci merci beaucoup!!)
I got to the room and was no longer pissed, but happy to be back in the room to end the day. I got an email about having the phone interview for my kibbutz stay and decided to put my Skype phone number that I just bought to work. I called Justin, my sister, Justin…Justin picked up…nothing. I called my sister again but Justin called me back! I picked up…nothing. My sister called me back…nothing! A waste of time. Justin went online and we tried to figure out how to make it work but to no avail. I am worried about Wednesday’s interview and not being able to hear/talk to her. I may need to get a phone – waste of money this Skype thing!
I put on my flip flops, which the bottoms are stained with chicken poop and got some of my items in order for tonight. As I was trying to make sense of the day, I realized that Michel was not saying Magdaline’s (a place I thought was in the center of town) he was saying McDonald’s. I am not sure why, but I just can never make that out when people with accents say it!! Although I was getting nervous about missing the bus, I felt completely safe in the city. Not once did I feel that I was in the wrong part of town, everyone was nice (nobody could speak English, which is good) but the safety thing is awesome. I saw no lavender or places where I could imagine lavender to be, so I will have to look into that in the future. It has been a ridiculously long say and I am so happy for it to be over!!
I found the next stop and some delivery guy on a motorcycle came up to me and said something. He repeated it for me and I still had no idea. He waved his arm and drove off. I figured it was not that important. Five minutes before my new bus should come another car stopped to tell me something. I mean what else am I to assume other than the buses will not stop here, but where? The center of town did NOT have a #6 bus stop, I know because I walked around twice and looked at the bus route map thrice. I gathered that he was offering me a ride and I took him up on it, now that it was about 9:45 at night and getting dark. I got into the car and we began to drive, I realized in the wrong direction and told him where I was going. He had no idea and I pulled out my map. His name was Michel, I am guessing around 40. Nice guy, passed some gas during the trip but he rolled down the window. I told him that I was on vacation in France until December and that I wanted to stay in the center of Aix, but my hotel is far away (okay I did not say all of that, but I wanted to and may have in small bits and pieces). I told him I just ate but did not know the name of the place. He kept talking about eating at Magdaline’s and I had no idea. I got to the hotel, thanked him profusely as now it was very dark and left. (Michel, if you ever happen to come across this and read it, and you understand any of it...merci merci merci beaucoup!!)
I got to the room and was no longer pissed, but happy to be back in the room to end the day. I got an email about having the phone interview for my kibbutz stay and decided to put my Skype phone number that I just bought to work. I called Justin, my sister, Justin…Justin picked up…nothing. I called my sister again but Justin called me back! I picked up…nothing. My sister called me back…nothing! A waste of time. Justin went online and we tried to figure out how to make it work but to no avail. I am worried about Wednesday’s interview and not being able to hear/talk to her. I may need to get a phone – waste of money this Skype thing!
I put on my flip flops, which the bottoms are stained with chicken poop and got some of my items in order for tonight. As I was trying to make sense of the day, I realized that Michel was not saying Magdaline’s (a place I thought was in the center of town) he was saying McDonald’s. I am not sure why, but I just can never make that out when people with accents say it!! Although I was getting nervous about missing the bus, I felt completely safe in the city. Not once did I feel that I was in the wrong part of town, everyone was nice (nobody could speak English, which is good) but the safety thing is awesome. I saw no lavender or places where I could imagine lavender to be, so I will have to look into that in the future. It has been a ridiculously long say and I am so happy for it to be over!!
Hotel Ibis and Dinner
Okay, so not just is the hotel not on my map, a 30 minute walk (if you know where you are going) but the internet is only good for 200 something of information. Once I have used that amount of data I need a new code, which I have to get from the front desk, ridiculous. (don’t expect pictures this week)
Anyway, I wanted to stay and sleep more but I figured I needed to go out and have a real birthday celebration. I literally forced myself up and out of bed and caught the bus into town (super easy). I thought it was 100% worth the 1euro.
I walked around the town and enjoyed finding some of the many water fountains. I went into a book store and a sales person helped me purchase two books to read that I am hoping will help my French. They are meant for 10 year olds. One says something about Jesus, I think it is set around that time and is a normal kids book, I could not put it back the guy was so nice helping me find something. The other book is about some kid’s really good idea. I read the first chapter and I got that they were eating, she needed to wash her hair, she was embarrassed and she had a really good idea that her father thought was dumb.
I then decided to walk around and find where I would enjoy my dinner. There were a bunch of venders setting up shop along the main strip and they had lavender and cookies and all sorts of stuff. I found a restaurant that had mussels and figured I already had it, but it was good. I sat down and – they were out. What does not make sense is that it was the dish of the day and it was not even 8:00. I asked for another minute and three waiters later I ordered the steak. It was okay, came with salad with a dill dressing, ratatouille with lots of peppers (Fanny’s was 110% better than this stuff) and French fries. I ate everything except for the pepper veggies.
Anyway, I wanted to stay and sleep more but I figured I needed to go out and have a real birthday celebration. I literally forced myself up and out of bed and caught the bus into town (super easy). I thought it was 100% worth the 1euro.
I walked around the town and enjoyed finding some of the many water fountains. I went into a book store and a sales person helped me purchase two books to read that I am hoping will help my French. They are meant for 10 year olds. One says something about Jesus, I think it is set around that time and is a normal kids book, I could not put it back the guy was so nice helping me find something. The other book is about some kid’s really good idea. I read the first chapter and I got that they were eating, she needed to wash her hair, she was embarrassed and she had a really good idea that her father thought was dumb.
I then decided to walk around and find where I would enjoy my dinner. There were a bunch of venders setting up shop along the main strip and they had lavender and cookies and all sorts of stuff. I found a restaurant that had mussels and figured I already had it, but it was good. I sat down and – they were out. What does not make sense is that it was the dish of the day and it was not even 8:00. I asked for another minute and three waiters later I ordered the steak. It was okay, came with salad with a dill dressing, ratatouille with lots of peppers (Fanny’s was 110% better than this stuff) and French fries. I ate everything except for the pepper veggies.
Aix En Provence
I got off of the train and went to the ticket booth. I thought that I should buy my ticket today as it is not near the hotel, but the line was long(ish) and I thought if I change the length of time I stay, my ticket would be no good. I could not find a city map and so I was off using my written directions to get to the hotel.
Step 1: Walk on Cours Gambetta (so that Blvd Carnot is on Left) – this sounds easy, but it is not. I was only on one street, so one would figure it was Cours Gambetta and I need to pass Blvd Carnot, well the idea is good but I was wrong. I walked for a while, turned around and walked for a while. In neither direction was the first or second or third street Blvd Carnot. I wound up in the center of town and picked up some stamps to mail my growing stack of postcards (0,78 per stamp!) I found some fountains and Greek statues and snapped a couple of shots. I even found the tourist information office and took advantage of my luck. I got a map and took a seat outside.
Immediately, I was asked something in French and when I said I did not understand the man said something about me speaking English and being an American. He seemed nice enough and then was on his way. I found Cours Gambetta on my map and spent about 10 minutes walking to it. I know my bag is small but it is heavy and I am not used to having such a load. My feet began to hurt with the wait but I pushed on.
Now, I should mention that the map showed me where Cours Gambetta began, but then the map ended. This means that my hotel, is off of the map that I got and I will have to rely on the directions that already tricked me. I was up for the challenge and kept going. I made it to Cours Gambetta.
Step 2: Right on Rue Paul Bettcaguy. As I was taking my street I passed Blvd Carnot on my left and felt a ray of light (metaphorically speaking). I even saw a sign for my hotel and kept going. After about 15 minutes I needed to sit. I found a bench on the road and enjoyed a 5 minute rest. I continued on looking for Paul Bettcaguy. Where the current road ended, it split in two and I followed my second sign for the hotel (I am getting close!). I walked and walked…and walked…and walked. I thought that this should have only taken about 15 minutes from the train but I guess I was wrong. About thirty minutes later I found a little café and looked inside. I could not just ask if they knew where Hotel Ibis is without buying something, so I bought something and had a seat. Throughout the entire purchase, eating of tomato, cheese, and basil on bread and Fanta, and the leaving of the café I could not bring myself to ask where Hotel Ibis was (ordering was difficult today. I went into the café and looked around. The girl asked me something and I said I was looking (en francais) she had no idea so I played my oh so perfected version of charades and said I was looking. I decided what I wanted and saw the sandwich name was Paul. It was the name of the café too, so that meant specialty, it must be good! When I ordered a Paul she pointed to the wrong item, I corrected her and then realized, Paul was not the name, it was the café and written on all of the descriptions of the sandwiches…)
I left the café and continued in the direction that I was going. I stopped at a traffic circle and realized none of the signs said Hotel Ibis anymore, I must turn around. Walking uphill, I retraced my steps. I asked a woman on the street if she knew my hotel and she said no. I realized I still had not turned off of Cours Gambetta and was upset I must have missed my turn. Then I saw a sign that said the street randomly changed names and I was walking on the other street for a while before. I was glad to be walking back to find the hotel. I found a little park and decided I needed to sit after my 20 minute walk. I did not make it very far into the park before I grabbed a bench, I wish I did not have my stuff with me!
Basically, it took me three hours of walking and an hour of resting/eating to find the hotel. It is nowhere near the center of the city. I had walking and bus directions but figured I would walk. The route I took was for a road that they closed and I am guessing are getting ready to demolish. I found my way though and took a nap in the AC.
Step 1: Walk on Cours Gambetta (so that Blvd Carnot is on Left) – this sounds easy, but it is not. I was only on one street, so one would figure it was Cours Gambetta and I need to pass Blvd Carnot, well the idea is good but I was wrong. I walked for a while, turned around and walked for a while. In neither direction was the first or second or third street Blvd Carnot. I wound up in the center of town and picked up some stamps to mail my growing stack of postcards (0,78 per stamp!) I found some fountains and Greek statues and snapped a couple of shots. I even found the tourist information office and took advantage of my luck. I got a map and took a seat outside.
Immediately, I was asked something in French and when I said I did not understand the man said something about me speaking English and being an American. He seemed nice enough and then was on his way. I found Cours Gambetta on my map and spent about 10 minutes walking to it. I know my bag is small but it is heavy and I am not used to having such a load. My feet began to hurt with the wait but I pushed on.
Now, I should mention that the map showed me where Cours Gambetta began, but then the map ended. This means that my hotel, is off of the map that I got and I will have to rely on the directions that already tricked me. I was up for the challenge and kept going. I made it to Cours Gambetta.
Step 2: Right on Rue Paul Bettcaguy. As I was taking my street I passed Blvd Carnot on my left and felt a ray of light (metaphorically speaking). I even saw a sign for my hotel and kept going. After about 15 minutes I needed to sit. I found a bench on the road and enjoyed a 5 minute rest. I continued on looking for Paul Bettcaguy. Where the current road ended, it split in two and I followed my second sign for the hotel (I am getting close!). I walked and walked…and walked…and walked. I thought that this should have only taken about 15 minutes from the train but I guess I was wrong. About thirty minutes later I found a little café and looked inside. I could not just ask if they knew where Hotel Ibis is without buying something, so I bought something and had a seat. Throughout the entire purchase, eating of tomato, cheese, and basil on bread and Fanta, and the leaving of the café I could not bring myself to ask where Hotel Ibis was (ordering was difficult today. I went into the café and looked around. The girl asked me something and I said I was looking (en francais) she had no idea so I played my oh so perfected version of charades and said I was looking. I decided what I wanted and saw the sandwich name was Paul. It was the name of the café too, so that meant specialty, it must be good! When I ordered a Paul she pointed to the wrong item, I corrected her and then realized, Paul was not the name, it was the café and written on all of the descriptions of the sandwiches…)
I left the café and continued in the direction that I was going. I stopped at a traffic circle and realized none of the signs said Hotel Ibis anymore, I must turn around. Walking uphill, I retraced my steps. I asked a woman on the street if she knew my hotel and she said no. I realized I still had not turned off of Cours Gambetta and was upset I must have missed my turn. Then I saw a sign that said the street randomly changed names and I was walking on the other street for a while before. I was glad to be walking back to find the hotel. I found a little park and decided I needed to sit after my 20 minute walk. I did not make it very far into the park before I grabbed a bench, I wish I did not have my stuff with me!
Basically, it took me three hours of walking and an hour of resting/eating to find the hotel. It is nowhere near the center of the city. I had walking and bus directions but figured I would walk. The route I took was for a road that they closed and I am guessing are getting ready to demolish. I found my way though and took a nap in the AC.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Lunch and Dinner
I was headed back to the hostel to put on suntan lotion and my bathing suit when I decided I should get some real food. I found a restaurant that had mussels as the plat of the day and decided to go for it.
The host, location and food was amazing. I wish that I could have bottled the smell for you. It took me a while, but I finished all of it, even took advantage of the free dessert.
I spent sometime cooling off at the hostel(it really gets hot here) and then decided to go for a dip. I really did not want to go back to the beach, plus it was far away and I would have to take a bus (no more money please). So I went in search for the spot I saw on the ferry, by the harbor where locals were swimming. I made my way there easily and was only hit on twice.
I found a little spot and and brought my bag onto the rocks. I slowly entered the water since it was a bit cool. I realized that there were little crabs crawling around on the rocks that were filled with seaweed/moss and mussels. I got real nervous that I would step on one and get pinched. Fortunately, this did not happen. I made it to the water slowly and enjoyed the cool water in the heat. There were some boys with nets trying to catch something. I saw a couple of cute fish when I first entered the water and was not sure if the nets were for the fish or crabs.
I stayed out for a bit and then headed back to the rocks to dry off. I had a beautiful view and enjoyed the warm. I headed back to the hostel and met up with Kylie and Gabor for dinner. Despite being told about the fish, we got a salad, steak and gnocchi. After all of my seafood and the fact that the mussels had not greens I was the one who got the salad. It was okay, but the company was great.
The host, location and food was amazing. I wish that I could have bottled the smell for you. It took me a while, but I finished all of it, even took advantage of the free dessert.
I spent sometime cooling off at the hostel(it really gets hot here) and then decided to go for a dip. I really did not want to go back to the beach, plus it was far away and I would have to take a bus (no more money please). So I went in search for the spot I saw on the ferry, by the harbor where locals were swimming. I made my way there easily and was only hit on twice.
I found a little spot and and brought my bag onto the rocks. I slowly entered the water since it was a bit cool. I realized that there were little crabs crawling around on the rocks that were filled with seaweed/moss and mussels. I got real nervous that I would step on one and get pinched. Fortunately, this did not happen. I made it to the water slowly and enjoyed the cool water in the heat. There were some boys with nets trying to catch something. I saw a couple of cute fish when I first entered the water and was not sure if the nets were for the fish or crabs.
I stayed out for a bit and then headed back to the rocks to dry off. I had a beautiful view and enjoyed the warm. I headed back to the hostel and met up with Kylie and Gabor for dinner. Despite being told about the fish, we got a salad, steak and gnocchi. After all of my seafood and the fact that the mussels had not greens I was the one who got the salad. It was okay, but the company was great.
d'If
I got off and took as many good shots as I could manage. There were some nice pictures, but a lot were ruined with the crowds of people that were entering. I made my way up the building with the spiral staircases and snapped some more photos. I got an information pamphlet in English and fully enjoyed learning a bit about the prison.
Some people who were sent here were able to pay for a nicer room with a fireplace and window.
Of course, not everyone was so lucky and many were in the dungeon with no windows or light.
I decided to spend a bit more time here and pulled out my extra baguette and honey from breakfast. There were some tables for a cafe and then some more further away and I took a seat. I was told that these too were only for the cafe, which was quite ridiculous as other than three seats by the toilets, there were not benches or places to sit (plus these tables did not look like they were part of the cafe's tables...). I still obliged and found a shaded spot from a wall for a minute or two. I decided it was not worth staying if I could not sit and enjoy myself.
I headed to the ferry pickup and sat with my feet hanging over the edge. It was a nice shady spot but I only had about two minutes until the ferry arrived (it was early...or actually, it was really late).
The ferry was very crowded and only had room for five people. A family of four got one and so did I. We then went to the next island and all but six of us got off. I was worried that we would stop off at d'If again and pick up more people before heading back to Marseille, but we did not. The ride back was AWESOME. I found a shady spot and had a bird's eye view. I even found a nice place that people were swimming off of the docks and rocks. I decided that I would make the long walk there later tonight.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)