Arles, France

Arles, possibly best known as the city where Vincent Van Gogh had his most prolific period, and where he cut off an ear, is full of ancient Roman architecture and history as well as mediaeval lanes and buildings. Throw in an open air market, as this was Wednesday, and, of course, as you already know, we are in heaven.



It is hard to comprehend history as old as what is represented here. There are dates from before the birth of Christ. The Amphitheatre in Arles has been built, ruined, rebuilt, fallen into disuse, remodeled, and now is going through another phase of renewal with workmen slaving away in the hot sun regenerating this awe inspiring monument.






Today was our last day in Provence. We are sadly saying so long to lavender, sunflowers, towns perched precariously on rocky hilltops, and people that we have come to know and like over the last 5 days.

The owners of the Chambre d'Hotes that we stayed at in Saint Siffret, were gracious, generous, and truly friendly. I think Jodi and I would like to consider them as friends, and not just hosts. Pascale went out of her way to accommodate our needs. We have stayed in many places and never have sat in the garden by the pool until 10:30 in the evening talking with the people that run the place.

Our time was shared with Simon and Pauline, a couple from Cheshire, England, who, as it turned out, have been in education as well. We had a great time solving the education and social ills of the UK and the US.

We have truly loved being here and will miss the friends we have made here in the south of France.

And, I hope we can say, À bientôt. See you soon.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Arles, France