France

Paris, France: City of Lights and Romance

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond Paris, the capital of France, stands as a timeless beacon of culture, history, and romance. From its majestic landmarks to its charming neighborhoods, Paris offers travelers an unparalleled journey through art, cuisine, and architectural splendor. Let's delve into the essence of this iconic city, from its rich history to its vibrant modern-day allure. Unveiling Parisian History Ancient Origins and Medieval Beginnings Paris traces its roots back over 2,000 years to a Gallic tribe known as the Parisii, who settled on the Île de la Cité along the Seine River. The Romans later ......

By |2025-06-03T11:30:52-04:00June 3rd, 2025|

Mediterranean Mosaics: Coastal Towns Where Time Stands Still

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond There’s a moment that happens somewhere between stepping off a cobbled dock and inhaling your first breath of salt air in an unfamiliar place. The breeze carries traces of olive wood and sea foam. The sun kisses stone buildings that haven’t changed in centuries. And suddenly, your pace slows. Your shoulders drop. You remember how it feels to be present. This is the Mediterranean that’s not in the headlines or the cruise brochures. This is the Mediterranean of whispered histories, hand-painted tiles, and windowsill geraniums. Where old fishermen still mend nets in ......

By |2025-05-17T13:03:38-04:00May 15th, 2025|

Paris for First-Timers: A Comprehensive Guide to the City of Light

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond (This article is part of our series on "Must See" destinations.) Paris, often referred to as the "City of Light," captivates travelers with its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture. For those embarking on their first journey to this iconic city, understanding its nuances can enhance the experience manifold. This guide aims to provide insights into what makes Paris enchanting, highlight must-see attractions, recommend delightful yet affordable eateries, and unveil some lesser-known gems that offer a unique perspective of the city. Understanding Paris: The City Layout and Culture Paris ......

By |2025-04-16T13:38:21-04:00April 18th, 2025|

St-Paul-de-Vence – A must see medieval village

One of the many highlights of our Azamara cruise was our stop in Nice. While I’ll cover Nice in a separate article, here I want to talk about our excursion to Saint Paul de Vence – a visit I’d highly recommend. Vence or St Paul or Saint Paul de Vence (it has been referred to by all three names) has been called the “second most beautiful village in France,” and for good reason. It is a few miles from the coast and about a 45-minute drive from Nice. But let’s start with some history. History Much of the ......

By |2024-02-02T13:40:41-05:00May 20th, 2022|

A Seine river cruise from Paris through the French countryside

A river cruise along the third-longest river in France, Seine, offers a fulfilling experience of history, art, food, and wine. Rising at Dijon, in the north-east of France, the river flows 775 km through the picturesque countryside, passing by many fascinating towns and cities until it finally empties into the English Channel. The highlight of the river cruise is Paris, the famed capital where you can experience wondrous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre as you enjoy the beautiful cafes and parks. The river’s stretch through the capital alone boasts 32 bridges – Pont Neuf being the ......

By |2024-02-02T13:41:34-05:00October 17th, 2020|
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