A sleep in at last

Didn’t have to leave the hotel until 9.30am, so we were able to have a leisurely breakfast, before being taken to the markets, which were full of beautiful fruit and vegies, breads, cheeses, as well as craft items. It was beautifully clean and very vibrant. Then we were free for the rest of the day.

We took off on a jaunt up a hill, where the view over the Mediterranean stretched out for miles in both directions - it was gorgeous. There is certainly plenty of money here if the yachts we saw are anything to go by. There are a lot of ruins here also, dating back to the 15th century - some were at the top of our hill, and there was a lovely waterfall. It was very restful and peaceful as we ambled around, chatting with another couple from our tour party.

It was a luxury to be able to go back to the hotel for a battery recharge, and then hit the shops again. Everything is very expensive, as it has been all over Europe, but I did manage to negotiate buying some shampoo in French!

Our evening meal was in Monte Carlo, where they were setting up for the Grand Prix next week. The roads are treacherously narrow and windy when you are in an enormous coach (we’re not allowed to call it a bus!), but our driver is absolutely amazing. Thought of Toby (and Michael!) as we saw all the seating set up for the race - not many cars around yet, but certainly plenty of evidence that the race is coming. I can see that when we get home and watch TV, we’ll be saying ‘been there’ whenever we see something we recognise.

Then we were off to the casino. Not our cup of tea, but interesting to see how the other half lives. The grandness and elegance of the buildings there was amazing - again, eye-opening to see how much money is invested to encourage others to part with theirs!