We stop at Pisa, to view it's only claim to fame....the leaning tower of Pisa, situated in the square of miracles.....because it is a miracle it hasn't fallen over. It was reinforced in the year 2000, with concrete into the base as it started to lean even further. Tourists have restricted entrance, because of stability concerns.
We arrive in Pisa, before the masses, but greeted by 6 african gypsies peddling their illegal prada bags and sunnies. They were virtually at our door as we descend the bus. Part of me feels sad for them, then Greg tells me to get over it - so practical !
The leaning tower, is just as you imagine, leaning, due to the swampy nature of the ground when first erected as a bell tower during a war between Florence and Pisa.(Pisa lost)
Heading now towards the French Riveria, we see the Apuan mountain ranges which are entirely made of marble, and also glimpses of the Swiss Alps.
We drive through 176 tunnels from Pisa to Cote d'Azur, passing from Italy into France. Finally resting at Menton, on the French riveria for our overnight stay.
Everyone on the bus is excited about being in France, and the usual quiet bus is abuzz with noise.
We settle into our room, and then head off to the pebble beach , only 5 mins away for a toe dip into the water.
Tonight is an optional tour and dinner in the principality of Monaco. It is the 2nd smallest independent state in the world- if you remember from previous blogs, Vatican City is the smallest. It is the most densely populated state in the world, with 125 different nationalities in this tiny area. To become a resident it costs 2 million Euro, plus no taxes. Monaco / Monte Carlo is famous for Grand Prix races.
Visiting Monaco has been a secret wish of mine for a long time, and it did not fail to deliver the WOW factor. Grandeur and wealth was everywhere, the privileged few were strutting around and driving expensive cars.
About twenty of us went out for a meal in a lovely French restaurant, situated in a quiet little square surrounded by the Nicola Cathedral where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer were married. The restaurant was high on top of "the rock" , a fortress built in the 14 century. After dinner we visited the royal palace of Prince Albert, checked out the superb views over the yacht club and walked through the amazing gardens.
We stopped for a drink at "Le Cafe de Paris" which was extremely elegant , and I think we all felt a little out of place, as we listened to some beautiful french singing and mingled with the jet set.
The casino was opulent, the cars parked outside it were all expensive and chauffeur driven. The women of course were gorgeous trim and wearing designer everything.
Monaco, surprisingly was not bustling with tourists or peddlers of wares. They have a policy of quietness, at night, and there are certainly enough police around to enforce it. Cars and motorbikes are also restricted at night.
The night was very special and we really enjoyed the beauty of the area as well as experiencing how the other half live!
Cheers Leanne xx
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Location:Pisa. French Riveria
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