Monthly Archives: May 2016

The French Riviera

Posted on May 12, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

Funny how this region sees on average 300 days of sunshine per year, because we saw plenty of clouds and rain during our visit.  But even with the less than stellar weather, even with my California-spoiled eyes, and even with … Continue reading →

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Les Calanques

Posted on May 10, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

Just before reaching the notorious French Riviera, we spent time hiking in one of France’s relatively new national parks, Les Calanques.  According to Wikipedia, a calanque is a narrow, steep-walled inlet found along the Meditteranean coast.  Five calanques make up … Continue reading →

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Nimes

Posted on May 9, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

Nimes and its surrounding area has some of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, including an arena, a temple, and a spectacular aqueduct. Due to its convenient location between Spain and The French Riviera, we made the detour to view … Continue reading →

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Carcassonne

Posted on May 8, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

The medieval, walled city of Carcassonne is exactly what comes to mind when you think of classic fairytales.  With its crenellations, cone-shaped roof tops, and spiky turrets, Carcassonne poses dramatically for the classic panoramic shot from a distance.  Films have … Continue reading →

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Montserrat

Posted on May 6, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

Less than an hour’s drive, the monastery retreat to mountaintop Montserrat is perhaps the most popular day trip from Barcelona. With all the options of transportation (train, cable car, funicular, private car hire, and bus tours) it’s no wonder that … Continue reading →

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Barcelona

Posted on May 5, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

We fell in love with Barcelona. I mean, how could we not? Beaches. City life. Perfect spring weather. Fantastic eats. Dance music and parties. Hospitable and laid back Spanish culture. And finally, Antonio Gaudi’s psychedelic architecture. Several motorhome parking lots … Continue reading →

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Benidorm (Serra Gelada)

Posted on May 3, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

Breaking up the lengthy drive between Granada and Barcelona meant random short stops along the Spanish coast, which meant seeing more of tourist-free Spain.  Upon looking at the map, the coastal park of Serra Gelada caught my eye and we … Continue reading →

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Alhambra de Granada

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Jean Nguyen

Remnants of Islamic rule can be seen throughout Andalusia, and nothing says it more than the defining piece of the grand Alhambra. Originally the structure was a small fortress built on top of Roman ruins in the 9th century, and then later … Continue reading →

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