TRAVELS

We have managed to get away for a short trip in August. The religious period of Ramadan ends with the celebration of El ul Fitr. Muslims have prayed and fasted for 30 days and they conclude with a celebration. This means a holiday for us government workers, So Wayne and I escaped to a town in southern France called Aix en Provence. For those who are geographically challenged it is near Marseilles France. The town is full of old buildings mostly 16th and 17th century, sidewalk cafes, street markets, fountains and good food. It was a refreshing change of pace even if we could not always communicate. We do not drive here in Algeria so street signs are not a problem but we rented a small car and drove the French countryside. To say the least is was challenging! "X" as it is commonly referred to is the home of the painter Paul Cezanne. He is noted for his paintings of the mountain Sainte Victoire. It is a stunning mountain that rises up and dominates the scene outside of town.
We also traveled to the coastal town of Cassis, an ancient fishing port famous for its cliffs (falaises) an its sheltered inlets known as the calanques. Both are beautiful. And what trip to France is complete without visiting a winery or two for a tasting. Mountains and vineyards and olive groves abound.
It was relaxing and refreshing.

Fountains abound in Aix. Many are quite old and stories of people using them for various reasons. The large fountain above is the center of town and it is the Cours Mirabeau. Shopping and sidewalk cafes abound

 

 

 

 

 

 

a view to the town hall and public
square

 

Vineyards abound, the area is famous
for their various blends.

 Need a toilet? For a Euro or two you have access to the street corner toilet. This is one of the main intersections in town. Handy huh!

Cassis France the sea is beautiful
and
crystal clear