Nice is Nice!!!!

 One would think that I'd take a million pictures from this resort area along the French Riviera, but alas, it was not meant to be.   Today I conclude my last adventures in France back in 2005.  I really had a lovely time here.  The people were a bit um....what's the word I'm looking for while I'm trying to be polite....uppity?, but I think that's generally true of all people in touristy areas.  I think I'd get fed up with tourists after awhile as well:)  The food is delicious and the times were fun.  Here we are on the Mediterranean enjoying a boat ride.  This fascinating port town has a lot to offer.  But like Las Vegas, it charges double during high tourist season. France is an expensive country to visit.

 Thousands of people flock to this town during the summer and enjoy the rocky beaches of the Mediterranian sea.  It was strange for me because I had never seen people enjoying a shoreline on a rocky beach, but they all brought mats with them to protect their almost nude bodies.  Well some were completely nude.  Again a mix of cultures and attitudes.   My only regrets about this trip were not taking more pictures of the lovely homes and gardens around the area.  There are a lot of latin influences here and this town is really something special when it comes to design.  There were times I felt like I had been walking around places in Mexico or Chile. The food is way tastier here as well.

But mostly, beyond being traumatized by men wearing banana hammocks on the beach(some things men should never wear!), I think I was in love with the charm of Nice's gardens.  Overlooking the city on top, you'll find this waterfall cascading near a lush and exotic garden.  It's a beautiful walk to the top of the hill.  And it was here that I fell in love with Nice.

 And when you turn around, this is what you'll see from on top of that hill.  Bring some cash as it can be pricey, but be ready to see one of France's premiere destinations.  I'm still a smalltown boy though and much prefer the quieter and more country like Avignon anyday. However, this was a fun visit.

Overview of Nice France