One day vacation

Due to the difference in dates being written in several countries, there was a mix up. Several people thought it was my birthday and sent congratulations. However yesterday was a special day. I finally arrived in Europe (with all my baggage) on Saturday afternoon. Today (Monday) the captain is coming to meet me and I will join the boat and crew.

So yesterday was my one day vacation in Nice. And I made the best of it. If I carefully planned it, it could not have worked out better. I had a leisurely start - sleeping in a little after my lengthy travels the day before. A cappuccino at a street side cafe got me started as I set off to explore. I walked along the promenade and smelt the sea air and smiled at strangers. I felt a little nostalgic when walking past a violin player on the waterfront. It seemed an experience meant to be shared.




I people watched as I strolled. I love the poise and finish of the French. They could wear rags and still look stylish. I played a game of trying to identify the tourists and guess their nationalities.



I walked along random side streets and poked into all kinds of little stores. In between I played tourist and took pictures of the lovely old buildings. I found beautiful parks and stumbled on a flower market to my delight. I loved the bustle of the market and savored the fragrances and colors around me. Further on the fruit vendors loudly hawked their wares. Even the french fruit aims for perfection. Every one colorful, unblemished and beautifully displayed. The fishmonger had the most artistic display of fish and seafood. He probably carefully re arranges the composition if one is sold.

By now it was around one and I decided a one day vacation calls for a special meal. It was hard to choose between all the street side cafe's, but settled for a seafood restaurant. And who says the French are stingy with their portions? My starter was a mountain of mussels. Naturally I had to accompany this with a rose. Next my salmon arrived, and as in all French food the secret was in the delectable sauce. I took my time to savor everything, and finished it off with dark chocolate mousse. I felt thoroughly spoiled.

By the time I stepped out of the restaurant the market had all but disappeared. A few remaining rose leaves where being swept up. If I ventured here a different time I would have missed it all. I wondered off back in the direction of the park and discovered a carnival atmosphere. It seemed to be a celebration of the diverse cultures living in Nice. Young dancers and musicians represented Eastern, Brazilian and African cultures. I joined several people in climbing on a nearby statue to get a better view of the stage. The park itself had various displays and there was a festive atmosphere among the crowd. When the Brazilian drums died down, the orchestra in the center of the park started up. I stood enthralled at their pure artistry, and admired the youngster in the back row that expertly changed instruments.

From there I strolled off in a different direction and found the town squares filled with talented buskers. A piano player whose hands just flew over the keys, break dancers, musicians of every kind imaginable.

By the evening I just felt filled like a sponge with all the events of the day. It felt like the city held a celebration just for me. This day is my new start. And with a start like that it can only go well. I am excited about the unknown ahead of me. I might not have had someone holding my hand as I listened to the violin player. But I was never alone. And nor will I be in the future - for I know that no matter where I am in the world, God is with me. And He will guide me in the unknown ahead of me.