Aix-ellent.. Good luck with your burgers

It's amazing how quickly a new place can feel like home. Even though I've only been in Angers for a little over a month, when I'm away, I find myself missing the routine and comfort of what has become my life. However, that is not to say that I did not love my week traveling around the South of France!

le Vieux-Port

Marseille, oh Marseille. I have always had a general dislike for this city... too big, reputation of being dirty and violent, etc. After spending a couple days here with an awesome tour guide, I suppose my opinions have changed a bit. While I wouldn't rush and pack my bags and move there, I can admit that the Vieux Port de Marseille is a sight not to be missed.





The color of the water is absolutely stunning with its various shades of blue and green. Mix that with the pale beige rocks and the historical monuments and you can get some incredible pictures. A dash of sunshine never hurt anyone either... So, I was a complete tourist--taking pictures of anything and everything. My friend, Jérémy took me to the best places in Marseille such as le Palais Longchamp, le Panier, et plus. He was so hospitable and awesome. Gros bisous xx.

Place d'Albertas 

It was so weird being back in Aix. I spent the first couple hours walking around the city and thinking about all of the glorious memories. Instead of typing everything out, I'll highlight some of the best moments with some fun bullet points..

Amy et moi

• Putting fake blood all over my face for a fun Zombie Night Halloween party
• "Breaking in" to the American Center (the gate wasn't actually locked, so it's okay) and taking pictures in the back garden
• My good deed of the day-- translating for an English speaker who couldn't communicate with the Frenchies. He just didn't understand that his burger had too many extras and couldn't fit in the to-go box. (BURGER BAR)
• Partying with some Aixois and seeing how excited they got when Nickelback came on over the speakers (no joke...)
• Seeing my friends and how much they have changed & how much they also haven't changed
• Being reunited with Maman Nanda, my mère d'accueil and having a conversation about the need to buy and use a fanny pack and being asked if I have a French boyfriend yet... love her.
• Comparing jokes in French and English and using the verb "to staple" as much as possible

What a beautiful, wonderful, fantastic city. I was surprised by how many places I hadn't explored though. I was constantly seeing new things while walking around. It was actually a little unnerving.

BUT, I'm back in Angers now. Home sweet home. So happy to no longer be on the train. Especially because there was an old man whose feet kept touching mine. Disgusting. Work started back up today. Woo.

Last update- apparently, my stolen purse was found. I went to go pick it up, body shaking while reliving the horrible moment. As the police gave it back to me, they just kept repeating: "pas propre, pas propre" (not clean). When I unzipped the purse, there was a horrible stench and a couple of slugs. I almost puked. However, all of my stuff was in there (except my cash and my iPhone). Good thing I spent so much time canceling cards, getting a new bus pass, a new train pass, etc. All in all, I guess I'm pretty lucky.