My last few days in Belgium were spent weeding in the garden and going out for one last Belgian beer. As a joke, another volunteer and I randomly planted broccoli among rows of onions, potatoes, and fennel. You know life is slow when you get kicks out of broccoli plants. Then the time came to once again pack my bag and say goodbye. I left just in time as I was lucky enough to catch a ride to the outskirts of Paris where I excitedly took a train and attempted to manage public transportation in a foreign country. My fellow Wicklow Way hiker was nice enough to help arrange a few places for me to stay while I visit France!
I arrived in Paris, immediately dropped off my bag and headed out to start seeing the sights. As soon as I hit the streets I almost felt right at home with all the Americans roaming the city. I managed to see all the big sights: Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysee, Tuileries, and the Pompidore Museum. But after two days, I'd had enough more than enough of the city life and headed west to Normandy.
My second stop in France was Caen, where I visited my first European castle!! Finally! I spent my time meandering the streets, visiting museums, and drinking espresso at outdoor cafes - aka living the dream. Then I headed to the small village of Bayeux, home of the Bayeux tapestry and the Battle of Normandy War Museum. I vaguely knew of the tapestry but it's quite impressive at 230 feet and consists of 58 panels showing the events leading up to the Norman invasion in 1066. Following my historical education day, I was lucky enough to be welcomed into the home of Manon's parents where fresh food and hot showers are the norm.
Another few days in France then further south to Barcelona!
Take me on a trip upon your magic swirlin' ship,
My senses have been stripped, my hands can't feel to grip,
My toes too numb to step, wait only for my boot heels
To be wanderin'.
I'm ready to go anywhere, I'm ready for to fade
Into my own parade, cast your dancing spell my way,
I promise to go under it. - R. Zimmerman
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