Playing Along the French Riviera

"That's not nearly enough time!" 

That was our AirBnB host's comment when we told her how long we would be in the region. At this point, hindsight and all that, I would say she was not stating her opinion, but a fact. And that was in Eze, at the very beginning of our 12-day visit to the Côte d'Azur.

It is, of course, BEAUTIFUL! Again, please! But when I can walk longer, have more time, and the weather's a little warmer. I want to walk, shop, eat, drink, swim, hike, boat...any order will do! 

After Eze and Monaco, we continued along the coast, spending one full day each in Nice, St. Tropez, Ste. Maxime, and Cassis, and two days in Marseille. To be sure, we didn't change accommodations every day. So, there were extra evenings and mornings spent in a few spots. Marseille will have its own post because we stayed there the longest--four nights-- and our time there was comical. But you will note that there are some major towns missing. Next time, Cannes! We'll be back, Antibes! Menton, next time we'll do more than just wave as we drive by!

What we did do:
Promenade along Nice's Promenade des Anglais--spectacular 
Eat bouillabaisse--yum
See the Calanques by boat--magnificent
Watch a boule tournament in St. Tropez--fun and so picturesque
Enjoy the cheerful, familial ambiance of Ste. Maxime--loved it

Obviously, we were rushed. Only, given the location, who wants to (rush)? Moreover, I physically couldn't (rush). You could say we rushed in slo-mo. 

I must admit, due to the one city/town per day, the harbors, ports, and certain architectural features began to fade into one another. Joseph and I had to remind ourselves and each other that "This is the French Riviera. It's not an 'if you've seen one port, you've seen them all' destination." Even if they have a few things in common (like perfect beaches along the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea), each town has its own distinct personality. That's why I won't say I would do things differently given the same amount of time. It was worth the experience and knowledge. But would I do it again? No. I would spend more time in one place and absorb everything it has to offer.

Still, we saw and experienced plenty, and with my sweetheart, it was all so much fun.