Bought French sunscreen. French sun didn’t care; got sunburned anyway.

This morning, we drove down to the Camargue region of southern France, Europe’s largest river delta. The brine ponds there are home to large flocks of native flamingos. When I was a kid, I collected flamingoes. Ken wouldn’t let me buy all the flamingo tchotchkes. Took pictures instead.

The only time this trip I’ve wished I had my “big” camera, but still got a few good shots with my iPhone 13 (this trip is my big experiment into travel photography with the iPhone).

Camargue is also home to the tiger mosquito, a large and ferocious asshole, who requires specialty bug spray to repel effectively.

Have a significant case of poppy envy, as these red beauties grow pretty much as weeds around here. They do not grow in Virginia. I’ve tried.

Ate a pile of oysters for lunch in Saintes Maries de la Mer, by the Mediterranean Sea. Went in search of the WC, and found the most unusual bathroom door handle I’ve ever seen.

Met a Weimereimer named Silver, who made us really miss Duckie.

Climbed to the top of the bell tower of the local church. As far as unreasonable European spiral stairs go, these weren’t too bad.

Camargue Horses

Made friends with the famous white Camargue horses, one of the oldest breeds of horse in the world. They are born a dark brown color, and turn white as they age. These beauties roam as a free herd in the area, and they were very curious and friendly. This one (see picture) thought my jacket was delicious.

Visited the village of Aigues Mortes, which dates to the 1st century. I got talked into climbing the town walls to walk the ramparts, which were used during the Crusades. Essentially, more stairs. Ken was fully engrossed with the military history up there. I mostly focused on not twisting my ankle in the ankle-sized drainage ditches that ran the length of the perimeter.

Did get to see the salt marshes/flats where they make the famous pink salts of Camargue.

Now, back at the apartment, watching our resident flock of pigeons entertain us.