Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery northern France ðŸ‡«ðŸ‡·

August  2017 Muriel and I were privileged to visit Villiers Bretenoux and the  Australian National Memorial.  On the walls  the battle honours awarded to the Australian Imperial Force for service on the Western Front between 1916 and 1918.  Beneath these inscriptions are the names of more than 10,700 Australians who died in France and have ‘no … Continue reading Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery northern France ðŸ‡«ðŸ‡·

Ardeche Steam Train

When I knew that we would be going on a Steam train I was beyond excited.  As a child I loved catching the steam train for family picnics and school outings.  Hanging the head out as you go along the tracks. The clickety clack of the wheels and the whistle as the train headed to … Continue reading Ardeche Steam Train

Viviers – Ardèche Region

  By the time everyone came back from the Truffle Farm and Grignon Castle I was bursting to get out and do some exploring.  Being sick is awful, double that when away on holidays.  Poor Muriel, as soon as she came back I was like "come on let's go exploring in Viviers. " A quick … Continue reading Viviers – Ardèche Region

Grignan Castle – Château de Grignan

              Grignan Castle Or as it is known – The Chateau de Grignan is built on a hilltop with the small village built around it. At present the number of people living here is just over 1,500. The village dates back to the 11th century with the walls being … Continue reading Grignan Castle – Château de Grignan

Ever had a Truffle – a black Truffle?

Ever had a truffle – or a black truffle. The area of France known as the Dordogne produces 80% of these truffles – called Tuber melanosporum or The Perigord Diamond. They have a subtle aroma and an earthy flavour and reminds every one of rich chocolate or so they say. Since the best times to … Continue reading Ever had a Truffle – a black Truffle?

Sick? On holidays – Oh No….

I woke up in the morning and I didn't feel right.  I couldn't put my finger on it.  We went to breakfast.  I only ate a little as I was starting to feel queasy.  We were heading to a Truffle Farm and then to the town of Grignan with a tour of the castle.  A … Continue reading Sick? On holidays – Oh No….

Be prepared to be amazed at the Pont du Gard!

After lunch and a few cold drinks - it was very hot down in the south of France last August.  There were two afternoon excursions a trip to the Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct bridge or Chateauneuf du Pape: Town and vineyard tour with wine tasting.  MMMH choices...an old bridge or wine.   The bridge … Continue reading Be prepared to be amazed at the Pont du Gard!

Palace of the Popes Avignon

Avignon, a city in southeastern France’s Provence region, is set on the Rhône River. From 1309 to 1377, it was the seat of the Catholic popes. It remained under papal rule until becoming part of France in 1791. This legacy can be seen in the massive Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace) in the city center, … Continue reading Palace of the Popes Avignon

Pont Saint Benezet – The Bridge of Avignon

As we were having breakfast our ship was sailing into Avignon.  We passed by the famous  Pont Saint Benezet - The bridge of Avignon.  This bridge was built in the 12 century and is made famous by the song - Sur le Pont d'Avignon.but it is better known as the Pont d'Avignon on which one … Continue reading Pont Saint Benezet – The Bridge of Avignon