So we now come the last leg of our journey before returning home. We had planned to visit Bourges as a stopover en route to Paris, but have now decided to change plans and to head straight to Paris today and get an extra day there. That’s the beauty of a road trip – you own the schedule.
We will be leaving within an hour, and it’s around a 4 – 5 hour journey. We are excited to be finally getting to Paris, a place we have wanted to visit for some years now. Will update the blog as best we can, but for now, its’ time to hit the road.
Thursday, 26 August 2010
Day 19 : 25th August : Chateaux Neuf du Pape & Lyon
On leaving Nimes this morning, we took a visit to a little place called Chateaux Neuf du Pape. Would be rude not to really, and we stopped at the Musse du Vin. Its a free place to visit, and learn about the history and heritage of wine making. Learned some interesting points, like the fact that each vine plant only produces around 500 grams of grapes (between 1 and 3 bunches depending on size). It makes sense now why vineyards are so huge. The museum tour was concluded by complementary tasting of some Chateaux Neuf du Pape wines and this was followed by a small purchase of a selection to bring home! We also visited a second place that made chocolate and wine, also offering free tastings. The chocolates were very nice, and we wanted to buy some – however keeping them in the car would have only ended in disaster by the time we got back home.
We then headed to Lyon. It’s an odd town with a mix of historical buildings mixed with older places and student areas. It’s the 2nd biggest city after Paris and it feels it. The population is also very diverse with a mix of cultures and races all in one big city.
We then headed to Lyon. It’s an odd town with a mix of historical buildings mixed with older places and student areas. It’s the 2nd biggest city after Paris and it feels it. The population is also very diverse with a mix of cultures and races all in one big city.
Day 18 : 24th August : Nimes
Today we left the gorgeous beaches of the south of France and began our journey north to Paris. The first stop was the town of Nimes. Quite a nice place to visit if passing for a day. We arrived late afternoon, and headed straight for the Arena. It was a Roman settlement, and the arena in the heart of the town is an interesting visit. We toured the insides and got a feel for what gladiator fights etc were all about. Quite an impressive building that is now around 2000 years old.
We then headed for the hotel to shower and change before heading out for a meal. We decided on Japanese food tonight, wanted a change from the Med! Found a place called Shogun which does traditional Japanese food, and so we enjoyed a feast of the Orient. Sushi was quite tasty, as was the interesting desserts flavoured with green tea salts.
We then headed for the hotel to shower and change before heading out for a meal. We decided on Japanese food tonight, wanted a change from the Med! Found a place called Shogun which does traditional Japanese food, and so we enjoyed a feast of the Orient. Sushi was quite tasty, as was the interesting desserts flavoured with green tea salts.
Day 14 – 18 : 20th – 24th August : St Tropez & St Maxime
We had a nice drive down from Monaco to St Tropez. We passed via Cannes where we stopped for lunch. Lots of very expensive shops to be seen around the beach areas, and we are sure it would be a hectic place during the film festival. However, it lacked the sparkle of Monaco – and as it turned out, didn’t do the Riviera town thing as well as St Topez/St Maxime!
On our arrival in our stop at St Maxime, the weather was hot. In fact, for the whole 4 days it did not drop below around 32’C. We spent most of the time relaxing and enjoying the fantastic beach at Pampelonne. This really is one of the 10 best beaches. Sand is golden, and the sea is crystal clear. Easy to spend time (and money) here. We enjoyed the days relaxing at the beach and the evenings dining at some local restraints along the sea front. San Marco is one diamond find, was a superb place where we ended up eating twice.
Plenty more stories to tell about St Maxime etc, but will save them for when we see you.
We enjoyed the time here very much, loved the relaxed life. Definitely would return again.
St Tropez/Maxime - we will miss you.
On our arrival in our stop at St Maxime, the weather was hot. In fact, for the whole 4 days it did not drop below around 32’C. We spent most of the time relaxing and enjoying the fantastic beach at Pampelonne. This really is one of the 10 best beaches. Sand is golden, and the sea is crystal clear. Easy to spend time (and money) here. We enjoyed the days relaxing at the beach and the evenings dining at some local restraints along the sea front. San Marco is one diamond find, was a superb place where we ended up eating twice.
Plenty more stories to tell about St Maxime etc, but will save them for when we see you.
We enjoyed the time here very much, loved the relaxed life. Definitely would return again.
St Tropez/Maxime - we will miss you.
Sunday, 22 August 2010
Day 12 - 14 : 18th – 20th August : Monaco
The drive from Genoa to Monaco was superb. Despite fears that the coast road may prove to be another M25 (i.e. a huge carpark), it proved to be a great run. Superb sights, a nice stop by the beach for some lunch en route.
We arrived in Monaco to blue skies and lots of glitz and glam. After checking in, we decided to make plans for the night and got showered up etc. To our annoyance, the room we had at the Novotel was having issues with the drains – basically they stank something rotten! Not the greatest thing to have in Monaco, so a quick chat with the reception before dinner and we were offered an upgrade since they would not be able to have anyone look at the issue before the following day. We thought about, given that the alternative room would have no balcony, but decided that going from an executive room to a junior suite (billed at 500 Euros per night) would be worth the sacrifice. Was a great room, lots of space, lots of TVs and a great view.
We enjoyed dinner and then headed out for the glam of the marina at night. A few bars/clubs were in full swing. We tried a few out and relaxed for a few hours. Was a great night – though we did not see anyone famous. We then headed back to the suite for the night.
Next day was an early start to hit the beach in Monaco and chill out for the day. Was a hot day, blue skies and a really nice beach. After a long day chilling, we got showered and changed and headed back to the beach to eat at La Note Bleue. A great restaurant on the beach front, with a live jazz band and food that was out of this world. Portions were so huge that Amrit cancelled her main after just having eaten the starter. Great value for Monaco too – highly recommended.
After dinner, we ventured into the Casino – which to be honest was a bit of a let down. Outside the expensive exotic metal showed there was some serious money flowing, but the Casino, despite being grand and prestigious lacked any real atmosphere. We decided not to play, but watched a few others before a walk back to the hotel.
Our final morning in Monaco saw the heavens open – but we didn’t mind, it was an early start and a drive over to St Tropez where 30’c and lots of blue skies awaited our arrival.
We arrived in Monaco to blue skies and lots of glitz and glam. After checking in, we decided to make plans for the night and got showered up etc. To our annoyance, the room we had at the Novotel was having issues with the drains – basically they stank something rotten! Not the greatest thing to have in Monaco, so a quick chat with the reception before dinner and we were offered an upgrade since they would not be able to have anyone look at the issue before the following day. We thought about, given that the alternative room would have no balcony, but decided that going from an executive room to a junior suite (billed at 500 Euros per night) would be worth the sacrifice. Was a great room, lots of space, lots of TVs and a great view.
We enjoyed dinner and then headed out for the glam of the marina at night. A few bars/clubs were in full swing. We tried a few out and relaxed for a few hours. Was a great night – though we did not see anyone famous. We then headed back to the suite for the night.
Next day was an early start to hit the beach in Monaco and chill out for the day. Was a hot day, blue skies and a really nice beach. After a long day chilling, we got showered and changed and headed back to the beach to eat at La Note Bleue. A great restaurant on the beach front, with a live jazz band and food that was out of this world. Portions were so huge that Amrit cancelled her main after just having eaten the starter. Great value for Monaco too – highly recommended.
After dinner, we ventured into the Casino – which to be honest was a bit of a let down. Outside the expensive exotic metal showed there was some serious money flowing, but the Casino, despite being grand and prestigious lacked any real atmosphere. We decided not to play, but watched a few others before a walk back to the hotel.
Our final morning in Monaco saw the heavens open – but we didn’t mind, it was an early start and a drive over to St Tropez where 30’c and lots of blue skies awaited our arrival.
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
Day 11 : 17th August : Genoa (Genova, Italy)
Arrived in Genoa having taken the coast road (SP1) from Pisa. Was a really nice drive and we saw a few beach towns on the way. Italian Riviera is quite a nice place to hang out. Amrit got a little sick feeling again on mountain roads (as in Radicofani where a 10 minute journey ended up being 45 minutes). Altitude + Mountain bends + Jat’s driving = NOT GOOD FOR AMRIT! I however really enjoyed the drive, roads are great to stretch the legs on the car and get a feel for how well it holds the road!
Staying at the Bentley Hotel is downtown Genoa. This place is very grand, 5 stars and all the service you could ask for. We spent the afternoon enjoying the pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Great way to wind down after the drive.
This evening we had a meal in the hotel, with full silver service – staff could not do enough for us. At one point, Amrit went to pick up the bottle of wine to top up our glasses. This did not go down well at all! I have never seen a waitress and a restaurant manager run over to a table so fast! They apologised sincerely for momentary lack of attention, and insisted they poured the wine for us. Amrit felt like a naughty child being caught doing something wrong – was very entertaining!
Tomorrow we head out of Italy :( and into Monaco :)
Can’t wait to live up the quiet life.... ;)
[Sorry, no pictures today - will have to tune in next time to see more...]
PS: We caught a little sun again today, tan is coming on nicely :)
Staying at the Bentley Hotel is downtown Genoa. This place is very grand, 5 stars and all the service you could ask for. We spent the afternoon enjoying the pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Great way to wind down after the drive.
This evening we had a meal in the hotel, with full silver service – staff could not do enough for us. At one point, Amrit went to pick up the bottle of wine to top up our glasses. This did not go down well at all! I have never seen a waitress and a restaurant manager run over to a table so fast! They apologised sincerely for momentary lack of attention, and insisted they poured the wine for us. Amrit felt like a naughty child being caught doing something wrong – was very entertaining!
Tomorrow we head out of Italy :( and into Monaco :)
Can’t wait to live up the quiet life.... ;)
[Sorry, no pictures today - will have to tune in next time to see more...]
PS: We caught a little sun again today, tan is coming on nicely :)
Day 9 - 10: 15th – 16th August : Pisa
Pisa....this place is a real tourist hotspot. From Chinese, to Indians to Nigerians to Singhs – they are all here! Not the most enticing place (but the Tower etc all have to be done) and would recommend a single day here. A bit too touristy for our tastes.
I (Amrit) was hounded by the Nigerians with the Louise Vution bags (spelled as it appeared on the bag), but did not give in. Man they did my head in. I have never been so close to knocking someone out as I was here! To make things worse I made the fatal mistake of asking the price! Never again – never heard the end of it from them. To my surprise, prices fell round 75% as I started to walk away, was just like India!
We hopped on Cycle/Rickshaw to do a 40 minute ride round the area, was not the best idea in 36’c and just after lunch – but you live and learn!
The hotel, San Ranieri was superb. Never seen such a futuristic hotel, all very modern etc. The gardens were also a great place to relax.
Downside of Pisa – the mosquitoes had a feast! We are covered (Jat has 7 bites, and I have 6). Had a second day here and just relaxed really, and took a serious afternoon nap!
I (Amrit) was hounded by the Nigerians with the Louise Vution bags (spelled as it appeared on the bag), but did not give in. Man they did my head in. I have never been so close to knocking someone out as I was here! To make things worse I made the fatal mistake of asking the price! Never again – never heard the end of it from them. To my surprise, prices fell round 75% as I started to walk away, was just like India!
We hopped on Cycle/Rickshaw to do a 40 minute ride round the area, was not the best idea in 36’c and just after lunch – but you live and learn!
The hotel, San Ranieri was superb. Never seen such a futuristic hotel, all very modern etc. The gardens were also a great place to relax.
Downside of Pisa – the mosquitoes had a feast! We are covered (Jat has 7 bites, and I have 6). Had a second day here and just relaxed really, and took a serious afternoon nap!
The tower is actually perfect, just a dodgy camera angle here :)
When in Rome and all that - so when in Pisa, be a tourist - has to be done!
Our wheels whilst in the city, notice the convertible roof and panoramic windows
PS: we ached after this one.
Day 8 : 14th August : Cortona (Tuscany)
We arrived in Cortona, in Tuscany today having spent a night in nearby Radicofani, close to Fonteverde spring spa.
We had a suite in the Relais Villa Petrischio, a country spa retreat set off the beaten path. Very nicely laid out, and very well run. The suite was superb, classic Tuscan decor and finish, all in all a great place to come to. Would consider coming back to a weekend break here.
We had a great time relaxing and enjoying the spa, whilst taking in the great views. We ended the day rejuvenated and ready for the trip to Pisa the following morning.
We had a suite in the Relais Villa Petrischio, a country spa retreat set off the beaten path. Very nicely laid out, and very well run. The suite was superb, classic Tuscan decor and finish, all in all a great place to come to. Would consider coming back to a weekend break here.
We had a great time relaxing and enjoying the spa, whilst taking in the great views. We ended the day rejuvenated and ready for the trip to Pisa the following morning.
The place we came to stay at in Cortona - highly recommended
The pool and the views in the background
Saturday, 14 August 2010
Day 6 : 12th August : Bologna
Nice hotel. Nice town. Not much else to say. Had a nice meal at Trattoria Biassanot - highly recommended and superb value.
Had a change of plans due to the weather, so now heading out of Bologna in the morning (a day early) to Radicofani, Tuscany to enjoy some relaxation in a country retreat. Will update more when we arrive, as they too have Wi-Fi!
Oh, and we spotted something close to home...
Had a change of plans due to the weather, so now heading out of Bologna in the morning (a day early) to Radicofani, Tuscany to enjoy some relaxation in a country retreat. Will update more when we arrive, as they too have Wi-Fi!
Oh, and we spotted something close to home...
...KONE. Amrit, the die hard fan
Day 6 : 12th August : Milan – what a wash out
So we left Como nice and early about 10am, saying farewell to a light shower that started overnight. We headed south to Milan, around 40 miles away and the weather seemed to get hotter and brighter. That was however short lived, as we arrived in Milan to be greeted by explosions from the sky, no not fireworks but a torrential downpour!
Was a shame, since we were looking forward to the (window) shopping and a coffee in the square. Ended up not stopping, and instead headed for the Ferrari museum and factory in Maranello.
Maranello showed us 32’c, and we nearly melted. Thanks to the cool bag, we chilled and refreshed before a visit to the Ferrari museum. Some nice old cars, not many new ones, but good to see all the same. Could have spent a lot of money in the shop, but decided against it since they were not willing to give a discount on a new car.
We then headed out of Maranello onto our stop in Bologna.
Was a shame, since we were looking forward to the (window) shopping and a coffee in the square. Ended up not stopping, and instead headed for the Ferrari museum and factory in Maranello.
Maranello showed us 32’c, and we nearly melted. Thanks to the cool bag, we chilled and refreshed before a visit to the Ferrari museum. Some nice old cars, not many new ones, but good to see all the same. Could have spent a lot of money in the shop, but decided against it since they were not willing to give a discount on a new car.
We then headed out of Maranello onto our stop in Bologna.
Entrace to Galleria Ferrari
We put down a deposit...watch this space :)
Check out the size of that tyre ;)
Thursday, 12 August 2010
Day 3-6 : 8th August – 12th August : Lake Como (Argegno)
So we left Geneva after the fireworks and celebrations, and some rest, to head round Lake Geneva to Martigny to drive over the Alps and Mont Blanc via the Gt. St. Bernard Pass. It was a good trip, nice views, and only hampered by some slower drivers not making the most of the mountain pass roads. All in all, I love the drive, and would do it again on a clear day [Jat].
After a nights sleep in Geneva, I had another little snooze in the car on the way to Martigny. I also enjoyed the mountain pass, and felt as though I was taking part in a movie like James Bond or the Italian Job. Great views, not driven yet, but will do (Jat, stop hogging the wheels!).
Lake Como, wow! Its a nice place, great scenery. It is easy to see how it can be used as a movie set for things like Casino Royale etc, very very scenic and dramatic. On the 10th we hired a boat, and took to the lake. Mingling with the high society now you know! ;) Was great to relax on the lake with the sound of the water and the rays of the sun. We are now “tanned” if you catch my drift.
Enjoyed a picnic on the boat, as well as a spot of home cooking in the form of chicken and rice in the apartment. It will never smell Italian again! We enjoyed the 4 days (apart from the very steep walks up the hill) and left for Milan/Bologna this morning.
After a nights sleep in Geneva, I had another little snooze in the car on the way to Martigny. I also enjoyed the mountain pass, and felt as though I was taking part in a movie like James Bond or the Italian Job. Great views, not driven yet, but will do (Jat, stop hogging the wheels!).
Lake Como, wow! Its a nice place, great scenery. It is easy to see how it can be used as a movie set for things like Casino Royale etc, very very scenic and dramatic. On the 10th we hired a boat, and took to the lake. Mingling with the high society now you know! ;) Was great to relax on the lake with the sound of the water and the rays of the sun. We are now “tanned” if you catch my drift.
Enjoyed a picnic on the boat, as well as a spot of home cooking in the form of chicken and rice in the apartment. It will never smell Italian again! We enjoyed the 4 days (apart from the very steep walks up the hill) and left for Milan/Bologna this morning.
Our hangout in Argegno, Lake Como
Argegno shore line on Lake Como
Captin Amrit navigating the lake
Typical of some of the villas on the lakeside
Top down, open road, big smiles - just the way to do it!
Tuesday, 10 August 2010
Days 3, 4 and 5 : Lake Como Italy
Hi all. Limited Internet access here so this is a quick post from the iPhone. All going well. Cracking journey over Mont Blanc, will add pics and videos here soon. Arrived in Como. It's just like a movie set. Seen the houses used in Casino Royale. Hired a boat today for a cruise on the lake. Great tanning and relaxing. All else is well, will be heading off on Thursday fir Bologna via Milan. Hope to update more then since will have a web connection.
Saturday, 7 August 2010
Day 2 : Geneva, a big lake, a hugh meal and massive fireworks
It seems that the folks in Geneva heard that The Hanspals were arriving in town, so decided to put on a little show for us. After arriving from Epernay, checking in and getting refeshed, we headed out to Lake Geneva for some sightseeing and relaxation.
Much to our surprise, the Geneva committee decided to put on a little exhibition with thousands of people, lots of music and amazing fireworks to welcome us to town! How nice of them, despite all our requests to remain anonymous, they pushed the boat out - litteraly into the lake filled with fireworks.
Plenty to see, lots of nice shops with top watches, clothing and the like, and some super food.
Today we also took a drive around Epernay before we left, and saw some of the vineyards up close. Amazing how they are planted so in-line and all maintained so well. Very impressive skills.
Tomorrow sees us make a move for first main stop, Lake Como in Italy. We will be taking in the route over the Alps, past Mont Blanc, called the Grt St Bernad Pass - looking forward to the drive.
PS: We can pack efficiently......
Catch you guys soon...
Amrit & Jat
Much to our surprise, the Geneva committee decided to put on a little exhibition with thousands of people, lots of music and amazing fireworks to welcome us to town! How nice of them, despite all our requests to remain anonymous, they pushed the boat out - litteraly into the lake filled with fireworks.
Plenty to see, lots of nice shops with top watches, clothing and the like, and some super food.
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| Dinner on the lake - never seen this pose before?! ;) |
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| A view of the lake in Geneva |
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| Fireworks to welcome us as we ate our dinner. |
Today we also took a drive around Epernay before we left, and saw some of the vineyards up close. Amazing how they are planted so in-line and all maintained so well. Very impressive skills.
Tomorrow sees us make a move for first main stop, Lake Como in Italy. We will be taking in the route over the Alps, past Mont Blanc, called the Grt St Bernad Pass - looking forward to the drive.
PS: We can pack efficiently......
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| From this... |
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| ..to this, notice the intrigued bystander on the left |
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| Jobs a good'un! Years at the cash and carry packing the van finally paid off! |
Amrit & Jat
Friday, 6 August 2010
Day 1 : Home to Epernay, France
What a day - great start to the holiday is all I can say. Today is 6th August, which is not only the first day of the roadtrip, but also our 4th Anniversary. Thanks to all who sent wishes etc, all much appreciated.
As for today, after and early start, we had a clear run on the auto-routes over to Epernay from Calais. Once we arrived at the hotel, we took some rest following 3 hours of sleep last night and a 3am wake-up this morning.
Off to bed now, 9.30 pm is late enough, early start tomorrow when we leave for Geneva, via Dijon. Catch up soon!
As for today, after and early start, we had a clear run on the auto-routes over to Epernay from Calais. Once we arrived at the hotel, we took some rest following 3 hours of sleep last night and a 3am wake-up this morning.
After some rest, a shower etc, we heading out to Moet & Chandon on the Avenue de Champagne for a cellar tour. Very interesting, and some nice sampling of vintage Moet champage. Will tell you the stories about champagne when we are back. We topped it off with a superb meal at a local eatery. Great food!
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| "The Street" to be on |
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| Sampling some vintage bubbles |
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| Amrit found her match - in size as well as choice of tipple! |
All in all a great start, and helped along with a kind gift from Mum and Dad, which covered the cellar visit and most of the evening meal!
Journey has started!
Well it's all go. We set off at around 4.30am and are now at the channel tunnel terminal grabbing a much needed bacon roll. Crossing is at 6.20. Next stop: Epernay and a visit to Mr Moet and Mr Chandon...
Thursday, 5 August 2010
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