Carcassonne

This incredible walled town dates to the 12th century and before. It was recreated in the 1830's amid lots of controversy. "Was the architect true to the times". Probably the best money the town ever spent as now it's a huge tourist mecca. So photogenic that one understands well why all the people come. The double wall around the city and the Castle are amazing. The history involves Muslims and Christians. One thinks of France as so catholic and yet there was/is lots of protestant and other religious strife too.

The audio guide kept the kids and adults interested and informed but also lead to frustration as each mom had to find their own key as well as 2 kids. It was ok. Luckily the Castle is pretty wide-open and we got there early so there was no fear of us disturbing the true historians. We'll see, a month from now, what we all remember of the Carcas!

The streets were full of touristy stores both in keeping with the theme of medieval town and NOT. Candy stores abounded as did ice cream ones. So we spent our obligatory amounts and enjoyed the sensation. As well we did the train circuit of the town. A bit of a waste as the inside streets are so narrow, no train, let alone all the cars allow can pass through them.

So the ride was outside the city walls and through the Base Village. Thought it would be fun...wasn't. The Avignon town train is much better.

And Finally the swords, medieval armour, masks, guns, dragons and paraphernalia had this 6 year old mesmerised. How does a mom explain that no he cannot buy a 20" steel shafted sword without sounding like an ogre? Imagine the airlines reaction trying to explain that carry on item.

My dad used to have a letter opener in the shape of a sword so the concession was to advice that he could probably inherit that sword! But now I'm being bugged everyday whether Nana has sent the sword or not. Sam does have the largest sword collection that I know of. For all of technology though I'm kind of glad that a sword still thrills him.