Walking kilometers today, we have visited the Monastere St Paul de Mausole where Vincent van Gogh was taken in, after the episode where he cut off his ear. We enjoyed the walking tour through the village and countryside that inspired Vincent, following the 19 panels displaying reproductions painted by the artist during his stay in St Remy. It was very sad reading how patients such as Vincent were treated for ailments such as depression and bipolar in the 1800’s. After leaving the hospital, we made our way back to St Remy for lunch before visiting St Martin’s church built in the 11th century.         ( Note song  : Don McLean….Starry Starry Night )

Our second visit to St Remy de Provence is certainly not disappointing us. The charming town of St Remy, while quite touristy, is full of restaurants and beautiful French inspired shops with loads of character. Plenty of laneways to explore during our week long stay here. Our accommodation at Mas Des Tourterelles is perfect and within walking distance to the centre of town. St Remy de Provence is overlooked by the Chaine des Alpilles, a range of the Pyrenees mountains in southern France . St Remy is one of the oldest towns in France and has been home to many artists including Vincent van Gogh who painted 150 canvases when he spent time here at the St Paul de Mousole hospital, which we hope to visit later in the week.

Such a beautiful tiny village

While wandering the streets of France, the many different doors leave me to wander what lies behind. Some stand proud and beautiful, while others look sad and neglected, most are probably hundreds of years old. So much character. What stories these doors could tell.

We are spending a couple of days in the beautiful village of Tournon Sur Rhone. Nestled between the mountains the village is on the River Rhone. We have found a gorgeous boutique hotel named Hotel Ayalees.

Our accommodation in Dijon was a stunning 15th century three storied home with wonderful gardens .

Rising just above Dijon, the River Soane descends towards Lyon passing through several gorgeous little towns just before it flows into the Rhone. We have found many friendly easy going french people, certainly far from the arrogance that they are known for. It is so much fun picking restaurants to sample the local cuisine and wine. Tonight I hope to find frogs legs.

For us floating along the River Soane is peaceful and relaxing. Lucky, because the boat is slow. Calling into ports and villages. Eating, drinking coffee and wine in tiny bars, restaurants and self catering on the boat with local produce.

We are into our second day of walking the streets of Paris. What a beautiful city. Went up to Montmartre today finishing with lunch in a typical local French restaurant. Have taken too many photos, but here are some of our favourites.

We arrived last night into Paris via Finland. A good trip and felt surprisingly fresh on arrival, enjoying a meal out at a restaurant next door to our hotel. Our photos of Paris are taken from outside the hotel. So close to the Eiffel Tower.

We are having a relaxing time in Hua Hin, about three hours from Bangkok.  Swimming, eating yummy Thai food , enjoying cocktails , night markets, the must have two hour daily massages, all in beautiful tropical gardens.