Join me on day two of exploring Avignon: visiting the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), Papal Gardens, and Pont d’Avignon (Bridge of Avignon). The Palais des Papes, the residence of the Popes during the 1300’s, is the largest gothic palace in the world.

View day one here, where I explored the village of Avignon, plus sunset images from outside of the city, highlighting Pont d’Avignon.

(above): I’ll never forget standing here, feeling so insignificant, like a drop of water in the ocean of influential people who’ve walked this earth. [alt caption: it’s giving Game of Thrones, no?]

Two prominent memories from this portion of the day: first, the stunning, French provincial beauty of the garden. Unreal.

Second, when I originally exited my tour of the palace, I was turned around and couldn’t locate the gardens. At this time, I’d only had about three months of French lessons under my belt, but I certainly knew how to ask, “Where is the garden?” in French …except after an obligatory exchange of bonjours, my frenzied mind could only form the question I’d asked countless times, “Parlez-vous anglais?”

I then proceeded to walk over to the garden, proverbially kicking myself for not asking in French. What I find both funny and helpful in these moments, is that “Où est le jardin?” is now so cemented in my brain, it may as well be English. I share this as a reminder to myself (and anyone learning a new language) to practice speaking; mistakes (and even silly internal exchanges) help us learn, too.

Soon, mid-afternoon came around and I was off to Pont d’Avignon before catching the train back to my beloved Lyon.

xx

Cass

Palais des Papes et Pont d’Avignon (FR)

Avignon, France