"Gargoyles & Graffiti"chronicles architectural elements that I find interesting or unique in my travels. Gargoyles are my passion, but today graffiti (which I hate but am learning to love as it is everywhere) is as much a part of architecture as the gargoyles and decorative railings that thrill me.

Monday, December 29, 2014

Memories of Nice #2

Flowers in window at Nice
Looking back, I really enjoyed our walking tour of Nice. It was just such a whirlwind of new experiences that I was slightly taken aback. For instance, when I visited Portofino, it was incredible. Not only was it gorgeous, but the best part for me was that it is small. I only had to take in a little bit to drink up its beauty. But a place like Nice, with its traffic, grime and smells - takes a bit more getting used to. I do hope I get to go back one day and stay awhile.


Woman beggar on steps of a Church at Nice

Within one block, we saw a woman begging for money on the steps of a Church. Walk a bit and there is an amazing upscale art gallery. Nice is like that!


Art gallery at Nice
A shot of Pascal's hand as we were leaving Nice
Back on the bus leaving Nice, I tried to capture a shot of a beautiful building with sky blue shutters. Instead I got Pascal's hand. Thought it came out great, as if to say "Bye, bye Nice!"

Sunday, December 28, 2014

Memories of Nice #1

Wall at Nice, France
I did a walking tour on my last cruise of Nice, France. Like a lot of places, while I was there, I focused on the dirt and decay. But once I am back and can take some perspective and look at the memories of my trip, Nice took on a whole new light. Our guide, Pascal, was fabulous - warm, funny, charming and oh so French. It was a delight just watching her work. Her accent was beautiful and I was amazed at what she could do with a scarf. Just throwing it over her shoulder, she appeared like a queen.


Walking tour of Nice
Pascal is the one carrying the sign, number 2, but you can't see her in this photo.


Trompe-l'oeil wall at Nice




Woman in window listening to our tour guide 

We wandered through the streets. At one point, Pascal stopped to speak and a woman above in a window listened to our every word.


Pascal, our guide, on the left
This is a photo of Pascal taken on the steps of the Cathedral in Monaco where Princess Grace is buried.