Late one night, while I was in the south of France, I was speaking to Mr. Décor via Skype. He was telling me that soon after I was to return home he would be leaving to work as a contractor on the island of Oahu for a month. “Oh that’s a tough gig.” I teased him. He replied, “I want you and Sweet Guy to come out while I’m there.” My first reaction was to look down at the chocolate croissant I had been munching on, which had been one of many, and think “How on earth will I fit into a swimsuit?” ... View the Post
Chapelle Des Penitents
The Penitents' Chapel, Chapelle Des Penitents, can be found in the picturesque village of Les Baux-de-Provence. Chapelle Des Penitents The chapel is located in the church square near the edge of the cliff which overlooks the Fontaine Valley. The original chapel was built in the mid 17th century by the Brotherhood of White Penitents who were Roman Catholics and wore white habits. The word penitent means a person who repents their sins or wrongdoings and in the Christian Church, seeks ... View the Post
The Benefits and Safety Factors When Sightseeing in Paris Alone
Paris is a prime destination on the travel wish lists for many people. While writing about Paris these past two weeks several readers shared their fears with me that they may never visit the City of Light because they have no one to go with. My advice is “Go Alone.” I can almost hear the shocked responses already. Most will probably fall along the lines of “Easy for you to say….” I’ll let you in on a little secret, all of the Parisian experiences that I have written about these past few weeks I ... View the Post
The Apollo Gallery and the Crown Jewels of France
The Apollo Gallery and the Crown Jewels of France. The Apollo Gallery (Galerie d'Apollon) is truly one of my favorite galleries within the Louvre. It was originally created for Henri IV (the fourth) but much of it was destroyed by fire on February 6, 1661. The reconstruction was done under architect Louis Le Vau between 1661 and 1663 by order of young King Louis XIV (the fourteenth). It is easy to see how it served as a model for the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles Palace. The Apollo ... View the Post
Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre
In the Richelieu wing of the Louvre, you will find Escalier du Ministre (the Minister’s Staircase) that leads to the first floor containing Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre. Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre Don’t be in a rush, walk slowly up the stairs, look around and up. The ceremonial staircase was built for the Minister of State to impress distinguished visitors attending parties and affairs of state. Napoleon III (Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, nephew of Napoleon ... View the Post
The Louvre’s Magical Sculpture Garden
My first encounter with ancient sculpture came while I was living on Crete. I took a ship to Athens and went to the Parthenon. It was lovely and memorable and I feel so blessed to have had that experience. But it wasn’t a magical experience. I know that may sound strange but I indeed had a magical experience when I found myself alone, on the ground floor of the Richelieu wing, looking at the Cour Marly sculptures. Somehow, as the late afternoon sun streamed through the glass ceiling, I could ... View the Post
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