Got ripped off today in Toulouse, I think; just as an Indian restaurant run by Bangladeshis (who else) was about to close for the arvo, I rock up asking for an Indian Chai; they must have seen me coming, they were kind enough to make it for me and the usual decaf for Ursi at a cost of 11.30euro, all be it they served 4 cups, (2 more than I asked for) That’s serious money, but I took it in my stride, didn’t complain as I hadn’t had any for more than a week and it was the best I’ve had on this tour. Ces’t le vie.
The drive from San Sebastian was through lovely countryside; the French are not shy about charging the road tolls, mon Dieu. Drove into Toulouse on yet another public holiday (it seems like there has been one public holiday per week for the past 4 weeks in Spain and Portugal). After parking the car, checking into our studio etc., took the tram into the city on a warm sort of day. Walked alongside River Garonne into the old town with a customary town square, narrow lanes with charming French apartment buildings, scattering of monuments and an adjacent park full of families enjoying the day by now mostly bathed in sunshine. First bit of sun, we have seen in 3 days.
Came across a mother with a child on the tram into the city triggered my emotions to reflect on my mum for a large part of the arvo; not in a sad way but just wishing we could be together again. Spoke at length with Ursi about it, who is a good listener on such occasions. Back to the arvo, after we had ticked off all the things we wanted to see and do, took the tram back to our studio; even gave up my seat to an elderly gentlemen who was most appreciative. Couldn’t believe that not one of the younger people sitting down offered theirs. Never mind, closer to our studio, we went in search of a supermarket nearby and what a supermarket; it was enormous, the biggest we have experienced. Got what we came for and made it back to our studio where we spent the rest of the evening. Called my sister, to confirm tomorrows pick up arrangements from Marseille airport. Just as well, because we would have been a day early. We got our dates mixed up somewhere along the way. That gives us an extra day to explore other towns, which we wouldn’t have had otherwise; we will now pick her up on Saturday arvo to spend a week with her in Le Lavandou.
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