ClaireTartare

I found the city of Pompeii just as interesting as the archaeological site. We stayed in an Airbnb on Via Roma, and it was nice to walk around as a tourist. The architectural style is really beautiful, with the colorful house fronts and cobblestone streets. There was the De Vivo ice cream shop, the little playground for the kids, and plenty of restaurants with Italian specialties (a bit disappointed by the pizzas, but the tomato and mozzarella was the best I have ever eaten in my life!).

There is always a special aura in Italian places of worship. You can feel a lot of reverence, and it is nice to visit them. The Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary of Pompeii is no exception. It is very pretty and very big. I recommend going inside (if only to find a little bit of cool air!). Ladies, be careful to keep your shoulders covered, as it is very frowned upon to enter in a tank top. Just in case, the religious staff leaves shawls at the entrance.

I did the 12 km descent of the Ardèche, finishing at the Vallon Pont d'Arc, and it is one of my favorite memories from this region. The scenery is so beautiful, and we were lucky enough to pass through several microclimates during our trip. It was memorable! For kayaking, I recommend going in late spring or early autumn, just so you don't end up walking in the river with the kayak under your arm.

Before arriving in Clermont-Ferrand, I stopped at a lookout point to observe the city. It is quite surprising to see how the cathedral stands out darkly from the rest. It is built with volcanic stone from Volvic, and that is the main reason I stopped there. It is just as impressive, and still just as dark, when you get up close. I recommend it for those who like unusual, slightly mysterious places.

I have good memories of this park. It is always nice to walk among the trees when you are in a big city. What really stands out are the squirrels scampering around everywhere. If you go to Hyde Park, you are sure to run into a few during your walk!

A park lost in the middle of the Vendée that has really made a name for itself. Breathtaking shows, impressive actors and stunt performers, and well-crafted music and sound and light effects. You are bound to be enchanted by a visit to Puy du Fou, especially if you love history and the performing arts. I recommend planning your route in advance, especially if you are only going for one day, as the lines can be long in the summer!

When visiting the city of Nantes, it is impossible not to stop by the Passage Pommeraye. This place, which originally allowed workers to reach the banks of the Loire more quickly, is now a shopping arcade with breathtaking architecture. You will find iconic shops that have been there for years, like the chocolatier Maison Larnicol or Paul Marius, but also Pylone, Sostrene Grene, and Avril. It is an ideal spot to do some shopping, but also to visit a unique historic site. I recommend going in December, as the Passage Pommeraye is decked out in Christmas decorations that make the place even more enchanting.

Lisbon is all in all a capital like many others, but it has a Mediterranean charm all its own. The historic center is lined with winding alleys and typical houses, many of which are covered in authentic azulejos (those classic little tiles, often white and blue). Between the city life and the seaside, I highly recommend this city for its atmosphere, its architecture, and its culture!