France-iversary part 1 Marseille

Rather than exchanging gifts for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, etc., travel is our gift to each other. Our most recent adventure had us riding the rails up the northeast coast of Spain and across southern France in early December.

Our first destination was Marseille, where we filled our days wandering street art-laden alleyways, hiking to the city's best overlook, Notre-Dame de la Garde, dodging raindrops, searching the Christmas market for the perfect bar of lavendar soap, and indulging in way more than our fair share of croissants, macarons, and pastries.

A highlight was discovering the Santon Fair (Foire aux Santons) where artisans sell hand-painted clay figurines used to decorate nativity scenes.

Before our train departed, we explored the Cours Julien neighborhood made up of colorful murals, graffiti, and edgy street art reflecting the city’s diverse culture and energy. 

Marseille was a fabulous starting point. Next up is Nice...and it's nice. 😉 Sending love and hugs! 🇫🇷  🚄 🥐 🍰 🖌️👼