Sept 30 Marseille

Sunday, many businesses are closed, but there are many markets on the street. As well there are outdoor concerts and street performances. 

Much of the day was spent watching the entertainment and strolling through the markets.

Ice cream maker..cream is poured on the ice-cold surface along with fruit. The content hardens up and is chopped up and mixed, and then served in a cone or cup.

Sept 29 Saturday Marseille

"Run Mario run!"

Marseille is an amazing town - lots to do and see and all close to the Old Port. Today we decided to visit the beach about a two hour walk. The way to the beach followed the port and shoreline, and being Saturday, there were many enjoying the sand and water, and there were two volleyball courts. Many of the players older, but very skilled playing 3-on-3.  

A park along the way, overlooking the harbour.

Arc de Triump for the WWI

We saw a sign for an amphitheater and went in the direction but could not find it. Instead we entered a private area and were locked in. A car had exited, but we took little notice about the gate that was about to shut. Julie yelled, "run Mario" thinking I could get to the gate before it closed. No one else was around and we searched for the gate switch. After about 15 minutes people came out and opened the gate. What a relief! There was fear we would be trapped for a few hours.

Today we encountered two weddings. One wedding was arabic and there was lots of music and singing. There were five policeman around who we chatted with. I asked why so many police and they advised it was because of this arabic wedding. "It can sometimes be crazy", one policeman said. He was serious. We told them we were from Canada, and they cheered. We gave each a Canada pin, and they were so appreciative.

Across the street from the cathedral a wedding was in progress.

A beautiful location for wedding picures

A second wedding party close by.

This little guy caught Julie's attention, with a Charlie Chaplin moustache. 

There are many side-streets with unique shops and restaurants 

Sept 28, Marseille Day 2

There is nothing better than sunshine to make the day. We went for our morning coffee to give us the needed start and then made our way to the Notre Dame Cathedral perched on the hilltop overlooking the harbour. The streets offered a gradual ascent, but soon we had to switch to a rocky path up. Julie's foot is still hurting and she was uneasy making the ascent, which followed a gravel path and rocky steps. Lots of hand-holding required most of the way up. Just like a couple of teenagers! And what an amazing view and beautiful cathedral.

This cathedral has a draw-bridge

In the evening the harbour is filled with tourists looking for a restaurant or enjoying the entertainment, and tonight the entertainment was spectacular- like watching Cirque Du Soleil.

A beautiful ending to the day!