Porto Portugal

Astorga Spain

Stopped in Astorga as it was getting late and there was a free camp (behind the bulfighting ring}. Strolled into the village and found the most magnificent old Cathedral and a Gaudi Museum. The town was located on the "Pilgrims Way" and we met a couple of Australians who were doing the walk.

Biarritz area

Stayed in a very popular "Camping Aire" in Biarritz, a lovely town in southwest France, almost to Spain.

Mont St Michel

Headed south from Alain's, first stop the magnificent island village and cathedral of Mont St Michel. Motor homes are allowed to stay in the car park for 24 hours for no extra charge over the day parking fee. Must have been 100 motor homes there. Arrived late afternoon so had a good look with few tourists. Next morning there were thousands. 3 million tourists a year visit it.

Monet's gardens

On one of our day trips Alain took us along the "Impressionists Way" to Monet's home.

More of Paris

Mona is back there somewhere

Met Elise at her shop and the whole street heard her scream when we arrived. She took us to a great little street cafe for dinner before a view of the Eiffel Tower at night. Spent a whole day at the Louvre (including long entrance queue). Last trip we stood face to face with the Mona Lisa. This time there were barricades to queue (like at airport checkins) and hundreds of people lining up.

Paris

Spent a fantastic 2 weeks with Alain in his home at Mantes la Jollie, 50kms from Paris. Fast train to city does 120kms/hr. Alain arranged tickets for a ballet at the Royal Paris Opera in a private booth. Did most of the touristy things although queue to top of Eiffel Tower was 3 hrs so did not bother.

Palace Versailles, Paris

Arrived in Paris on Sunday 10th April and Alain was waiting to take us to a special day at Versaille, all the water features were turned on. Sun was turned on too.