From Chicago to Paris to Narbonne
An airplane, a long walk, two hotels and a train ride
We started out Thursday evening with an uneventful flight from Chicago to Paris. Landing early Friday morning we hopped on a bus to Gare de Lyon, our hotel was within walking distance from the station. After three miles hauling luggage over cobblestone we had sufficiently worn our feet to nubs and our muscles ached. A light drizzle started at dinner and turned into a sort of deluge throughout the night and into Saturday morning giving Paris an overcast. Perhaps a leftover mood from the tragedy of Notre Dame.
Click on images to enlarge. A note; since last posting the site has been upgraded so forgive me while I try out new features.
Our train pulled out on time and we were soon on a winged bullet flying through the countryside. Capturing views from the window of a high speed train is nigh impossible but I gave it a try.
Nothing better than entering your room 
and seeing french doors and a fireplace.
We selected Narbonne as the meeting point for our group of seven to start our barge trip through the Canal du Midi. We anticipated a simple sleep over and nothings special. What a surprise! Who knew we landed upon such a charming town.
To the ladies of France 
A palm, it is after all, the SOUTH of
France
Roses line the canal
We met a new friend while walking along the canal. If you ever met our dear Isadore the smile and personality will seem familiar.
In the city center is Narbonne Cathedral. Normally we just pop into a cathedral for a quick tour but the history of this church dates back to 331, the gargoyles staring at you from every crook and bend dared us to go inside.
We just happened to be touring the interior while a choir was rehearsing for their concert that night.
The vaulting was extremely high and seemed out of proportion but made sense when you understand that only the “choir” section of the church was built. The rest of the cathedral was left unfinished due to poor planning requiring the demolition of the city wall abutting the site.
Later in the evening we strolled out for dinner.
Bonsoir
