A whole day in the Louvre - and it wasn't nearly enough.
Whole wings of sculptures from Italy, Greece and other parts of Europe.
Amazing full wall mozaics.
Oil paintings from everywhere and every artist imaginable.
This view gives some perspective, showing the "U" shaped layout that extends for several city blocks along each side. Under the central plaza are rooms and rooms of artifacts and pieces - more than 650,000 sq ft of displays.
Just getting from one display area to another was an adventure.
Every little corner had some breathtaking intricate piece.
Wall sized murals that must have taken years to complete.
Everything was so open and close, we were surprised at how real it became when you were able to interact, walk right up and even touch.
We did find the Mona Lisa - one of the few pieces that was behind a rope barricade and bullet proof glass.
We were envious of the school tours that were there. Like our National Parks here in Canada, we wondered if the locals really comprehended and appreciated what was before them.
We could see why so many artists go to Paris to study, though. One could easily spend a four year degree studying the greatest artists ever in just this one museum.
After a long full day in the Louvre, we were definitely ready for a few days of just relaxation on the coast of Spain.
Marbella - beautiful sea.
You really lived up to your name.
(The Rock of Gibralter is just out of the frame to the left - Did you know St. Michaels cave inside Gibralter is a concert hall?! Apparently the acoustics are fantastic - no productions while we were there - bummer)
We fell in love with "old town".
There was a church in the central plaza with life in the community surrounding it.
A definite change to Mediterranean style
They have great family life down in Europe - at noon, all the businesses close, the kids get out of school and the family goes home for a few hours. They have their main meal of the day together and get to spend time together. Good planning.
We had lunch in the plaza de las naranjas
Something about the fragrance of orange blossoms that added to the ambiance of the wonderful food.
Then we explored the walking streets of Marbella. The narrow corridors lined with shops,
interesting architecture,
and spaces to just enjoy the day.
Every turn was a new adventure with very kind, gracious people to meet and talk to.
It must be a great town if they name streets after you!
For any contemplating an excursion across the pond - we highly recommend it.
The culture, the history, the architecture, the food and the lifestyle
will change you and become part of you forever.
Here are some additional random pictures from our phones and i pads that we missed on earlier posts.
Personalized service in London.
The days we took the train into Paris, this fellow would board and play traditional french songs on the accordion for all the travellers.
Euro Disney - we couldn't resist.
Blanche Neige et les Sept Nains (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs), and
the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House sound much more intriguing in French.
French onion soup - in France.
Best snacks ever.
Elevensies -
Relaxing on the Mediterranean coast.
