April 5
Today finds us on another tour, first to Nice, France. We are introduced to the old section of Nice known as "Vieux-Nice" in contrast to the sophisticated modern city. Once part of Italy, there is still an Italian ambiance in the maze of narrow and interesting streets lined with small shops, bistros, baroque churches and mansions once inhabited by the nobility prior to the French revolution. It continues to be difficult to stop 'sumo' from sampling all the local cuisine!
Having fun at the beach - Nice, France
Old town Nice
Next is St. Paul de Vence, a perfectly preserved medieval hilltop town, easily one of the most beautiful places on the trip. After chasing Greg through all the little shops, we relax on a terrace that overlooks the lush valley below. Also clearly seen inland are the snow-capped Alps. The evening is the crowning gala event at the Salle Empire in the Hotel de Paris. The lads opt to stay in the room as Sam and Sarah doll up for the black tie event. After dinner we check out the famous casino. Judging by the mini-bar bill, it seems the lads had a little gala event themselves!
Hilltop village of St. Paul de Vence
Site of the evening festivities
