Today was one of those days that started early and just kept getting better.
I woke up before the alarm—finally fully adjusted to France time, just in time to start packing for home. The dining room was quiet this morning, and I lingered a little longer over my breakfast: fruit salad (the kiwis were especially good today), my usual Eggs Benedict, and two full pots of English Breakfast tea. That morning routine has become such a comforting way to start my days.
After breakfast, I joined the optional excursion to the Pont du Gard—and it was absolutely worth it. This ancient Roman aqueduct is one of the best-preserved in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the first century AD, it was part of a 30-mile system designed to bring fresh water to the Roman colony of Nîmes. What’s astonishing is that it was constructed without mortar—the Romans engineered the massive stone blocks to stay together using sheer precision and gravity. And after all these centuries, it’s still standing proudly.
We crossed the 18th-century bridge just below the aqueduct to get the best view. I climbed down to the river on both sides—Remy came along, of course—and we took in the beauty of this architectural marvel from every angle.
I had thought about climbing to the top, but after just a few of those steep steps, I knew better. I’m still a bit sore from my fall the other day, and I didn’t need to repeat that adventure!
Instead, I found the perfect spot: a sun-warmed ancient stone wall with a view of the arches. I sat there and completed my 205th day in a row of French lessons. Not a bad classroom, if you ask me.
By then, I was ready for a little snack break. I went with my go-to Orangina and a doughnut (and yes—they actually call it a “doughnut” here too). It was light, airy, and dusted in just the right amount of sugar—sweet but not overpowering. Think Krispy Kreme but French, and somehow better.
Before leaving, I popped into the small museum, which was really well done. I especially enjoyed seeing the art and interpretations of the Pont du Gard through the eyes of painters and photographers over the years. It’s one thing to stand beneath those arches and feel the weight of history—but seeing how others have captured it gave me an entirely new appreciation.
Back on board the ship, it was time for lunch. I sampled the pasta of the day but ultimately went with a classic hamburger—sometimes simple is just right. Remy was absolutely delighted to find a dish of ratatouille, and insisted I try it too. He’s right—it’s always better when someone shares something they love. I finished with a chocolate éclair that I still wish I’d gotten two of.
In the afternoon, I decided to skip the included guided tour of Avignon and go exploring on my own. Sometimes, it’s just nice to move at your own pace. I wandered through the charming streets, did a little shopping, and made sure to see two of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Palais des Papes and the Pont d’Avignon.
A bit of background: in the 14th century, Avignon was the center of the Catholic world. The Papacy moved here from Rome, and the Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace) was built as their grand residence. It’s one of the largest Gothic buildings in all of Europe—and standing in front of it, you can feel the gravity of what this city once represented.
Nearby is the Pont Saint-Bénézet, more commonly known as the Pont d’Avignon. Only a few arches of the medieval bridge remain, but it’s famous for both its history and the children’s song that made it beloved across generations. “Sur le pont d’Avignon, on y danse…” You can’t help but hum it.
After my little solo adventure, I made my way back to the ship and took the best kind of nap—the kind you didn’t know you needed until you wake up totally refreshed. It turns out skipping the tour was the right decision.
As we sailed away from Avignon, our captain gave us a parting gift: we cruised past the Pont d’Avignon and the Palais des Papes, offering an absolutely stunning view from the water. Golden hour sunlight, ancient stone, the gentle motion of the river—pure magic.
Tonight, Avalon hosted a Farewell Gala Dinner, and although we still have one more day on board, it made sense to celebrate now—before the suitcases come out and everyone starts saying goodbye.
Dinner was incredible:
A mixed green salad (which one of my new Kiwi friends hilariously called “alternative lettuce”) Rich, flavorful French onion soup, Lobster, Filet mignon, And Avalon’s signature dessert: a delicate cream puff filled with mixed berries and topped with a silky hazelnut mousse.
The food was delicious, but the company was even better. We shared stories, laughed easily, and clinked glasses with people who just a few days ago were strangers, and now feel like part of this shared experience.
Most of the group headed to the lounge afterward to listen (and dance!) to the onboard band. I slipped away to my room instead—it’s been a full, beautiful day, and I wanted to make sure I got everything written down while it was fresh.
Tomorrow, I’ll spend my final full day in France exploring Arles, where I’ve signed up for something really special: a painting class inspired by Van Gogh. I can’t wait to put brush to canvas and see this place through the eyes of an artist.
Until then… bonne nuit.
Cleared For Take-Off! 