Like Bordeaux, Montpellier was supposed to be a rest stop along the way to another destination. And also like Bordeaux, we ended up loving Montpellier and wishing we could have stayed another day. That said, we managed to relax and explore in perfect balance in this young southern city. Our Airbnb flat was located near the historical center, a cute area lined with enchanting buildings, plazas and restaurants. (And most importantly, there was a grocery store just next door our apartment complex.) |
For those of you who know me well, good food is a big priority for me and is often a major focus of my day. So Jo and I started off our morning on a hunt for breakfast. This hunt for breakfast was especially difficult because by the time we found directions to a cluster of cafes it was already 12:30, and by the time we found one we could actually afford it was 1:00. Nonetheless, we managed to find toast with coffee and orange juice for 5 euros a person at Ma Perque.
With food and caffeine in my system I was suddenly able to enjoy the beautiful sights around me in the historical center.
However, we decided we needed a break from sightseeing, what with cities like Florence, Venice, Vienna, Prague, and Berlin ahead of us. We headed out and took the tram to the beach.
Montpellier seems to be less of a touristy city, and even if there are some tourists in the summer most of them are from other parts of France. So we were so excited to finally meet another English-speaking tourist, Baharak, who lives in London. She and her CouchSurfing host Mohammed led us to what they had heard was the best beach out of the three near Montpellier. When we arrived at the beach our new group of four met Naomi, who was visiting from Strasbourg. We all had a blast at what I would call one of my top three favorite beaches I've been to (although I get the feeling the beaches near Nice will come close!).
Montpellier seems to be less of a touristy city, and even if there are some tourists in the summer most of them are from other parts of France. So we were so excited to finally meet another English-speaking tourist, Baharak, who lives in London. She and her CouchSurfing host Mohammed led us to what they had heard was the best beach out of the three near Montpellier. When we arrived at the beach our new group of four met Naomi, who was visiting from Strasbourg. We all had a blast at what I would call one of my top three favorite beaches I've been to (although I get the feeling the beaches near Nice will come close!).
After Jo and I got back from the beach I tried my foot at running again and went a tiny 1.3 miles. But even in such a short distance I was able to enjoy new views along the streets!
That evening we met up again with Baharak and Mohammed for dinner near Place de la Comedie. Even though the food was pricey and the service was subpar at Le 5, we waited and ate in good company.
*Sorry for not posting as timely as usual; Weebly (my blogging platform) has been giving me technical difficulties. Crossing my fingers that it all stays up and running from now on.