La Havre, France
Following our visit to the Enchanting English Channel Coast on our two-week Western Europe Transatlantic voyage on Celebrity Apex, we found ourselves on the coast of France for the first time to La Havre.
Ah, France! The ship has now docked in La Havre, a captivating port city nestled in the picturesque Normandy region of Northern France. As we disembark, we are greeted by the enticing allure of La Havre, aptly named "the harbour" or "the port."
While many passengers rush off to the romantic city of Paris, with its iconic landmarks and eternal charm, we decide to savour the tranquillity and charm of La Havre. After all, why spend five hours on a return trip when there is so much to explore right here?
Around lunchtime, we seize the opportunity to stretch our legs and increase our daily step count. A leisurely 15-minute walk takes us from the ship to the heart of the city centre. The journey itself is a delightful glimpse into the local life of this captivating town.
As we meander through the streets, we stumble upon a vibrant market, and who could resist the allure of a traditional French market? The stalls are laden with fresh meat and produce, and the flower shops entice us with their burst of colours. It's a feast for the senses, and we revel in the atmosphere.
The intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, drawing us irresistibly toward a Boulangerie. How could we resist indulging in a perfectly flaky croissant? It surpasses all expectations, and we are transported to a realm of culinary bliss. Attempting to order in French only adds to the charm, creating a warm rapport with the owner and sharing a few chuckles as we navigate the pronunciation.
Intermittent rain showers attempt to dampen our spirits, but we seek refuge in the shelter of the nearby shops, determined to make the most of our time in this enchanting city. Despite the occasional drizzle, we relish the experience of immersing ourselves in a new place, even if it appears a bit sleepy today. The harmonious tones of the French language resonate in our ears, reminding us of our love for this captivating country.
Rejuvenated by our explorations in La Havre, we eagerly anticipate our return to France in August. We look forward to embarking on new adventures as we explore the world-renowned Bordeaux wine region and indulge in the culinary delights of Paris, the epicentre of gastronomy.
France has welcomed us with open arms again, reminding us of the limitless joy of travelling and immersing ourselves in new cultures.