June 15th: Bonjour, Marseille!

Buenos Noches!

Waking up in Barcelona one last time was bittersweet since we’d so enjoyed the adventures and big laughs we’d had there, but also we were so excited to travel to our next country; FRANCE!

First Eurail Journey

The train ride there was very easy since we’d definitely learned our lesson from rushing to the airport in Lisbon and left plenty of time this morning to get to the train. Jill sat next to a man having a wonderfully hilarious conversation next to her, which didn’t help her getting some shuteye on the journey. I caught up on blog writing which I hadn’t had much time to dedicate to since we’ve obviously been living it up here. Viv got into some journaling and scrap booking, which we have Jill to thank since she gifted us personalized booklets fro the trip (nicest human alive! Shout out Bob & Jennifer)

“ ...French people get a bad rep.... "

Bonjour, Marseille!

Getting to our airbnb around 3pm, we were in awe of France’s surprisingly warm welcome. In fact, we only had the most friendly interactions with the Marseille locals (which I honestly wasn’t expecting). French people get a bad rep. The three of us feel like French people have this stereotype of being snubs but this opinion is most likely perpetrated by generalized situations with those that may not have approached the locals with respect for their language and/or it could be that the pandemic and lack of tourism has changed things OR this just could be how the south of France always is and Paris is very different…just our experience and should be taken with a grain of salt just as those negative stereotypes should be.

Anyway, we walked up the airbnb from the train station and immediately feel in love with our home for the next few days, complete with a French balcony perfect for wine and coffee chats. In addition, after having lived in (wonderful) hostels for the last few days we were excited to have our own space free from the fear of potential robberies. Our airbnb host, **, walked us through the apartment and after asking about restaurants recommendation reveled that he’s a chef and loves to cook, so doesn’t eat out much. This inspired us to stay in and cook together for dinner. So, we headed out to explore and find a local market for ingredients.

“ ...Viv created the most delicious cucumber, tomato salad; Jill was in charge of the rice; And I made chickpea curry..... ”

Audition and Condition

While Jill stayed back to film a self tape, Viv and I headed to the mall to pick up hair fixing materials. I am

beyond lucky that Viv is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the field of at home hair dying since she knew exactly what my vision is and how to execute it, and spoiler alert…she saved the day. She gave me my dream hair and I am so excited to watch it lighter and get more settled on my head as the trip continues. Shout out Annie & Henry for raising such a wonderful person, she is the best.

(us watching Jill film a self-tape)

A Home Cooked Meal

After days of eating out incredible meals and discovering exciting and new flavors we were ready to chill and spend time doing what we love the most—talking and giggling for hours.

Viv created the most delicious cucumber, tomato salad; Jill was in charge of the rice; And I made chickpea curry. Over a bottle of natural wine from a local vineyard, we felt so lucky to be together on this adventure and loving every moment together; even those that were difficult like the hair fiasco.

All and all, today was perfect because we weren’t rushing to any activity or plans but rather just spending dedicated time together and enjoying being on this trip with lifelong friends.