Again, I love the colours of this historic citys alleys. What you cannot appreciate is the smells of delicious foods.
I had to take the train back to Milans central train station to pick up my luggage. I thought I was heading into a new direction towards France but my train went through Pavia, where I started the morning. Milans central train station is a beast when you hit it the first time when you are uncertain of where to go. Few staff are helpful. Travel tips: the left luggage office is TWO levels below the train platforms, and it is expensive, nearly 30 Euros for two days for a medium size bag. Dont ask older police for directions, wait for the younger ones to spot check your passport, they speak better English. Platforms are listed late so dont hang under the departure signs any more than 15 minutes before train is scheduled to leave. Meanwhile, step into the stone foyer, there is a breeze there and a few benches that the crowds seem to miss. Also, first class on Italian trains can range from free drinks and snacks to vending machines, so pack water and your own snacks.
post photos near end of this blog. The building is built to survive and it could be a historical relic a thousand years from now. When you are not freaked out from finding your way, you have time to appreciate the mosaic floor tiles statues.
The trip to Nice was boring at first, but when the hills rose and the Mediterranean Sea became your the journey passed into this summer holiday theme. So many beaches with colourful umbrellas and lounge chairs, so many yachts parked in front of popular beaches.
How nice it is to be in France where the language is so much easier for me. And NiceWOW.quelle Jolie! This is the first time Ive been on the Mediterranean coast of France and it feels much different from Spains beaches. Nice is a beach town with a historic castle on top of a hill. The elevator is broken and I refuse to climb 400+ steps for an elevated view. Instead I walked along the beach and explored the historic city. I discovered many alleys with the most delicious restaurants! Oooh, la, la, the smells from the French, Italian, Indian and fusion restaurants were heavenly.
How to choose? I was looking for indoors with cool air, so that cut out half of them on the waters edge in the sun. I had three shortlisted and then I read on a menu ratatouille Nice. Wow! After watching the movie several times, how could I not order ratatouille from the first French town I am visiting? It was really tasty, and I tried to memorize the vegetables so I can make it at home.
Another change was picking a hostel for tonight. It was metres from the train station and helpful with laundry service. A free drink at happy hour on the back deck sets the tone that this is a place to meet fellow travellers from around the world and celebrate this resort city. Theres kitchen and I am tempted to stay another day here. I remember meeting so many interesting people in hostel kitchens around the world. And after being on the road for several days, it is really nice to buy groceries and make a meal.
