Italy and France - Points and counterpoints
In Australia, we don't share land borders with another country. And while there is a degree of cultural shock when a Victorian crosses into New South Wales (coffee-like substances, a mobile-wrestling-like sport they call "rugby", etc...) it's all much the same. So you wouldn't expect crossing between France and Italy to make much of a difference...
Travel broadens the mind.
Coffee. In any restaurant, bar, cafe or Tabac, the coffee is always excellent in Italy. Why, then, can't the Franch make a decent coffee..? Anywhere..?? It's a mystery.
And as previously mentioned, while driving in France brings a few challenges and arresting moments, just over the border in Italy, all traffic rules are viewed as merely suggestions, indicators are entirely optional, and traffic generally behaves like a school of fish desperately scattering to avoid an ambush predator.
However, France has an elegance, structure and flair to it that is beguiling.
We spent almost a week in Annecy, another cycling mecca (apparently also to a demographic even more mature that us, riding e-bikes as if they had forgotten how to cycle), situated in a glorious, lake-side setting with the obligatory beautiful old town centre.
Another week celebrating a dear friend's milestone birthday, occasioning more dining excellence
And more epic cycling
passing by a bunch of friendly locals
The cycling included street art (this one celebrating a previous tour de france femmes start)
Interesting cycle pathways
More dining excellence
and really helpful and confidence building signage
A very special week with special friends (& new friends).
Another day of driving followed, south to the edge of the Mediterranean to Banyuls-Sur-Mer for a couple more weeks of cycling before we head to Taiwan.
Until next time
