Yesterday I think all the travel caught up with both Forrest and I. We were definitely tired and Forrest was pushing all my buttons while my patience bordered on nil. Thank goodness for Carla and thank goodness for a change in pace and location, because tired grumpyness is even worse in North Carolina. :) Both before and after naptime, we wandered the streets around the historic city center near the hotel, finding a picturesque park with a little playground, a to-die-for brunch on the famed Cours Mirabeau, a couple little cafes for snacks and coffee, and a million amazing looking boutiques and shops that were all closed tight because this is Sunday and like any typical Provincial town, Aix is apparently super sleepy the last day of the week.
But the incredible architecture still proudly invited our inquisitive gazes. They say the Baroque influence in French architecture is only greater in Paris and Versailles. Aix is also known for its fountains. Narrow, winding, cobblestone streets inevitably lead to some fascinating square and another unique water feature -- some no bigger than a large bird bath, others, like this one outside my hotel, are multi-layered and form their own impressive traffic roundabout. This one was built in 1860 as one of the premiere landmarks in the city. Notice the interesting juxtaposition of the Apple store in the background, though. I notice very few people even take a second look at the fountain, while true to every Apple store back in the states, this one is overflowing with people everytime I walk by. At least Forrest is still incredibly impressed by the city's fountains. He goes crazy for every one, shrieking "wawa, wawa!" and pointing like a maniac while attempting to catapult himself inside. Apparently, NC's selection of fountains is decidedly lacking in comparison.
Driving here is a test of maneuverability and quickness on both the part of the pedestrians and those behind the wheel. I swear I am walking on what should definitely constitute a sidewalk or maybe alleyway if I'm generous, when a tiny Peugeot comes carining around the corner on what is apparently a legitimately sized street. I never see one way signs, but there is no way a bicycle could pass an oncoming car on some of these streets much less another vehicle. I had thought about renting a car here. I think it best I don't. :)
We walked Carla to the bus station just a few blocks away this afternoon. Now Forrest and I are on our own. I've been speaking almost entirely in Spanish the last few days and now need to really buckle down on my French, which to judge by waiters' faces around here is decidedly lacking in even the most basic skills. Maybe if we hang out at the playground enough we can make a french friend....
A moment of glee.
I have actually never tried Coq Au Vin in the States, but I'd venture to guess the bar is now set pretty darn high... French cuisine has thus far not disappointed!
So sad to see Carla go today... gracias por pasar un tiempo tan dulce conmigo, amiguita mia, que te vaya super bien en la U en Barcelona!