Today was another gorgeous day in the French countryside.
We started off a bit late today after sleeping in and talking all morning.
We arrived at our first stop just in time to witness everything close up for the three hour lunch break.
Crap.
Katie and I made the best of the pause by wandering the streets of Évron and photographing the famous Basilica of Nortre-Dame-de-l’Epine.
The Basilica was built between the 11th and 16th centuries.
The architecture of the building is both Romanesque and Gothic.
The Basilica was very quiet. Peaceful and quiet.
At 1:30, the tourist information office re-opened and a very friendly English speaking French girl was happy to help us find things to do.
Just not in Évron.
We still had another half hour to wait before the bank that supposedly exchanged traveler’s checks was reopened.
When we asked what else there was to see in Évron, the girl just laughed and said, “only the Basilica.”
Long story short, we were sent from place to place regarding the traveler’s checks. Emotions were high. Katie and I both lost our patience, then miraculously, the post office exchanged a small amount of Katie’s infuriating fake currency.
A note to any and all travelers, regardless of what your parents, guide books or bank tellers say, NEVER rely on traveler’s checks for your European vacation.
Just use your debit card. The fees are minimal and ATMs are everywhere.
Simple. Done.
After that, we moved on- figuratively and literally.
We moved on to visit the Medieval city of Saint Suzanne.
Like any tourist trap, Saint Suzanne was beautifully maintained and provided plenty of photo opportunities.
From the tower of the old castle, I was able to enjoy spectacular views of the land below.
I wish Katie wasn’t afraid of man-made heights, because the climbing structure that was in place in the tower was really cool.
I can’t image defending a castle.
Before leaving Saint Suzanne, Katie and I popped into a little shop that sells soap and perfume.
Although the welcoming party was a bit creepy, everything smelled fantastic.
We had an easy drive back then kicked up our feet for a bit.
Back at the gite, I made a simple dinner while Katie posted pictures on facebook.
We had baked camembert cheese with jam and warm baguette along with an arugula salad with carrots and tomatoes.
I love the look in the lady’s eyes on the cover of the cheese. That’s the same look I have when a dinner of cheese is involved.
Right now it’s sprinkling rain outside. The fresh smell coming through the windows is working wonders to settle my soul. I have a feeling tonight will be a very restful sleep.
Eating Abroad
The small towns of France have such a simple beauty and you have captured that in your photos.
Thank you! I’ve always wanted to travel around New England, your blog makes that desire even stronger!
Looks like a wonderful, relaxing vacation. Hope you and Katie were able to catch up with one another. Miss you, Mom
Made me think of story books…^^