We based ourselves in Arles for the last three days with the intention of visiting the surrounding area by car. Because of this, we did not actually see much of Arles at all, unfortunately.  This is one of the reasons we return to the same places when we vacation…it is not possible to see everything in one trip. Not if we actually want to learn anything or have any meaningful experiences, that is.

That said, what I can tell you about Arles is that it is the city in which Vincent Van Gogh lived for a short period and painted some of his most famous works, such as “Starry Night”. Walking around this city, looking at the colourful window shutters, clay-tiled roofs, narrow winding streets, and clear skies filled with bright stars at night, it is not difficult to imagine how Van Gogh found his inspiration.

Whenever D and I travel, a strange affliction comes over me in which I decide that I would like to live in whatever city we happen to be visiting regardless of practicalities such as money, feasibility and oh yes, reality. Usually it’s because I’m so charmed by the rhythm and feel of a certain city that I want it to be a semi-permanent part of my life. I used to deal with this sense of longing by bringing home practical objects as souvenirs, such as tablecloths and kitchen wares specific to that area and manufactured locally, and also by learning to cook some of the specialties of that city or region. But I have found that regional cuisine eaten in situ never really translates when I’m home. It’s probably a good thing that this happens…it strengthens my fond memories of that place, and makes subsequent visits even more exciting.

Tomorrow, we are taking the TGV to Paris, where we will spend the last couple of days of our holiday before flying home to return to our normal lives.