Day 30 17 August

Tonight was the Captain's dinner.  Yes, the cruise part of our trip is rapidly coming to a close.  We are berthed in Avignon, a beautiful city, surrounded by an ancient wall, fascinating history centred around the Pope's Palace.  There were nine Popes in residence here before the papacy shifted to Rome.  We walked around the city and climbed to have an amazing view. Great fun and another learning experience for us both.

We spent this afternoon up on deck reading and enjoying the warm day.  There are many cruise ships in port so lots to see.  This is quite a tourist city so lots of people.

We are following the news about another earthquake in Seddon/Wellington area.  Hope things settle soon.

Tomorrow we leave for Arles, the last leg of our journey and time to think about packing!  For some reason we bus to Arles so there will be no more cruising time on the river, just one more night for sleeping.  We are really thinking about the train trip to Lyon and then to St Charmond.  Hope we make the connections as planned.

Thanks for emails and comments.  Always good to hear your news.  Have a great weekend.  Think of you often.  Love to all.