Bonjour tout le monde!

Today I am posting some of my pictures of Arles, where Vincent van Gogh painted.  Arles is located in the region where there are a lot of Roman ruins, including the wonderful arena that is in this town.  Also in Arles is an amphitheatre, and the café where van Gogh painted the Yellow Room, and Starry Night Over the Rhône.  What I like about Arles is that it is an intimate area, and if you are traveling with students, you can feel free letting them roam for a couple of minutes.
During our trip this summer, we will be in the Arles region, and might get the opportunity to visit this beautiful town.  If we are lucky, there will be time to visit the arena, and take some awesome photos.  Want to come with me on this great summer trip?  Check out http://jackiwilliams-jones.grouptoursite.com/ and enroll before all the spaces are gone!

The old hospital where van Gogh went twice when  his mental issues got to be too much for him.  Current belief is that the lead in his oil paints affected an already fragile psyche.

Here is the Roman arena in Arles.  There is an equally impressive one in the town of Nimes, where bullfights are still held.










The corridor of the arena in Arles. Just imagine how many people have gone through these archways, which date from Roman times.

The magical City of Lights

Bonjour tout le monde!

I spent several days in Paris just before New Year's Day.  It was cold, sometimes damp, the days were short, and I loved every minute.  The town was dressed up with lights, trees, ribbons, and bows.  Walking through the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter, we chanced upon a very small square that had three Christmas trees decorated with gold and red bows.  Just a random square made even more wonderful with the holiday spirit.  I understand that many Parisians leave town during this time, but of course the void is filled with tourists (like me).

The evenings were just as magical.  The Champs Elysées was lined with light fill trees, and the lower part was one long festival.  The streets were filled with families strolling, looking at all the items for sale, and enjoying all the rides for the children.  Besides that, almost every 20 feet there was a kiosk that sold crêpes, gaufres, barbe à papa (cotton candy) and other sweet treats.  I managed to pass them all!

If you have only done the major touristy things like the Champs Elysées, the Louvre, major museums and Montmartre, then it is time to get "off the beaten path".  Our hotel was in the 12th, very near Bercy Village, a little section of Paris that consists of small restaurants and shops that remind you of a small village. Walk down the cobbled street (oh, my ankles!), through one of the arch ways, and you are at the Parc Bercy, a green spot for parents, children, and lovers of open spaces.  (for more information on this area: http://europeforvisitors.com/paris/articles/bercy-village.htm )  We had such fun visiting the little shops, and enjoying all the food options available.  More on that later.
Remember, you can make your own memories of Paris, the Riviera and Italy this summer with me (http://jackiwilliams-jones.grouptoursite.com/)  I am so excited about sharing my love for travel with you.  Check it out, and put down your deposit!  Space is limited, so don't wait...

Village Bercy

Wee-fee in Paree! (wifi in Paris)

Bonjour tout le monde!
I have lots to talk about, especially since I did spend New Year's eve in Paris.  But I came across this blog post, which I find so interesting and very helpful.  So, while I am still basking in the glow of Paris, read this, and take advantage next time you're in Paris!
Merci, David Lebovitz!
http://www.davidlebovitz.com/2010/08/how-to-find-and-use-free-wifi-in/

Bonne Annee de Paris!

Happy New Year to everyone!
Michael and I were blessed to spend a few days in Paris, including New Year's Eve, or le Saint Sylvestre as it is known in France.  We had a magical time, and I have so much to talk about.  However, here is just an "amuse bouche" photo to get you thinking about this magical city.