We both didn't sleep too well last night and, as we had an early start today, we were not happy peeps for a little while. The receptionist made the mistake of asking us how we were when checking out, so she copped a bit of a serve about the room in Annecy not quite being what we had booked. A slight disagreement there, but we packed up our troubles and headed to the station for our 8am train to Valence Ville. Our packs seem to be getting heavier even though we haven't that much to them yet.
The three hour train ride to Valance Ville was fun, as Rod had booked first-class seats and we ended up right behind the driver at the head of the train. We were in a bright yellow and white compartment almost all to ourselves. It was great and we also got a good appreciation of the countryside as we whirled through all the stations - Albens, Chambery, Grenoble to name a few. Finally we arrived at Valence Ville at around lunchtime. We decided to go for a walk and stretch our legs (avec backpacks on our shoulders). Moved away from the train station (and the weirdos that train stations invariably attract) and bought a sandwich/baguette in one of the city streets. Walking back to catch our train, Kym found a very nice top in a store for only 5 euros - what a bargain!
A fair bit of train travel today, but it has resulted in us now being positioned right in the south of France. Once in Arles, we walked from the train station to our hotel in the heat of the day. The hotel was on the opposite side of the town, so we were greatly relieved to finally arrive and learn that it also had a swimming pool! We checked in and showered and then went for a bit of a walk in the old town (primarily to find some bottled water). We happened across a giant pink rhinoceros drinking from the water fountain in the main town piazza - had the heat really gotten to us?? Finally, after much searching and walking through the labyrinth of streets that make up Arles, we eventually found a small supermarket - right next door to two others! Stocked up on food and bottled water and took them back to the hotel.
Nightfall was setting in, so we squeezed in another quick walk through the town, including a stroll along the banks of the Rhone. Sure looks nice at night - and we can see why Vincent Van Gogh enjoyed painting this river. Starry, starry night indeed. Lights glistening off the river gave a twinkling effect. It was also nice to enjoy a substantial summer breeze for the first time on our holiday - a great relief from the incessant heat. And so, for now, it is goodnight from our Bedroom in Arles (a play on words for those not familiar with Van Gogh painting) ;)
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