TRAVEL

I Remember France

Ramblings of a Traveler

France may not remember me or my subtle meandering through mountain paths and city streets or my light and steady feet where greater feet have trod

But I remember France.

I recall the moment where I truly felt the authenticity of the tourist experience. I rested my head upon the velvety blanket of grass beneath the towering Eiffel. I was surrounded by a rich mélange of travelers. That same evening I took in the beauty of the River Seine from the crown of the Eiffel as it reddened beneath the setting sun.

Upon my departure I took a moment to dream beneath the twinkling tower.

It wasn’t all spectacular views and lavender but every moment was a moment well spent. slipping in and out of alleyways in search of new discoveries soaking up the sights along the Seine

Next I curiously delved into the villages of Provence, from the tiny fishing villages to the rolling countryside bordered by fields of lavender. I ventured into the country markets brimming with fresh flowers, freshly picked fruits, vegetables, and olive oil. I combed the colorful streets strung with local art, lined with baskets of linen and lace, regional soaps, textiles and handcrafts.

I regarded with wonder and splendor the artistic imaginings of Cezanne, which he so eloquently and delicately sketched upon his canvas.

I sifted the streets of Arles, stepping with tiny toes where the great feet of Van Gogh had trod.

I drifted through the town of Grasse inhaling its perfume factories, the sweet aromas of Fragonard’s Etoile and the intoxicating fragrance of Ile d’amour. I toured the inner workings of the area’s finest candy factory and tasted of its divine confections.

I explored the incredible vistas of Gourdon, its Feudal castle and stoned walls suspended high in the hills.

I trailed row after row of vineyards in Bordeaux while sipping the region’s finest Sauvignon Blanc. I roamed the streets of Napoleon’s homeland of Antibes by the sea.

Then I set my sights on the alluring mountain town of Menton, a wall of lavender and roses, a hidden gem among a citrus grove.

I rested a while in the commune of Avignon. I was whisked back in time by a 12th century cathedral and a 14th century papal palace that served as home of the popes in an era gone-by.

I cascaded down the stone steps of the medieval walled city of Saint-Paul de Vence, captivated by its art infused passageways steeped high above the Mediterranean Sea.

I climbed the medieval steps and traversed the cobblestone streets of the fourth century village of Eze, nestled in the mountains high above the glimmering Cote d’Azur. I strolled along the beautiful shores of the Riviera sampling inviting cafes and their fine delicacies along the way, from France to Italy.

I took the time to explore the Riviera life from the beach of Nice to the sun and sail lined ports of Cannes and Saint Tropez, and beyond.

I sauntered through the tiny neighboring country of Monaco exploring its royal palace and dainty gardens suspended along the steep sea cliff overlooking its magnificent harbor.

I look back adoringly at my travels to France. Deep within my heart, its purple hills ramble. Its seaside cliffs tower. Its medieval stone structures stand. Its history lives on, and its artistry colors my soul.

France may not remember me, but I remember France.

Thank you for reading my travel ramblings and sharing a bit of my journey with me. I hope you take a piece of France with you after reading this.

Thank you Thomas Plummer for your literary works that inspired this journal. You helped expand my vision to a new style of writing. I look forward to new growth and possibilities in the creative world of writing.

Mia Verita is a nurse of 24 years. She loved nursing and traveling so she found a way to do both! Her passion is writing and sharing her journey with others. Thank you Blue Insights for giving this travel journal a home!