Monaco/Monte Carlo

Since we arrived in Nice, Sian and I had long been awaiting a trip to Monaco/Monte Carlo...and when we found out it was 40 minutes away on the bus we were off! We just went for a few hours when my mum was here, but got to see plenty. We visited the Prince's Palace, where we saw the changing of the guards, the cathedral and some of the many stunning gardens. We also had a nice wander around Monaco Ville and the Port, where we ate lunch and couldn't believe our eyes at some of the boats! There are also boat and train tours which take you to the main attractions, which looked good... Don't forget your wallet to try your luck in the Grand Casino! 

I LOVED Monaco, definitely going back in the near future, don't see why I wouldn't at €1.50 each way on the bus! (The bus is the 100, and you can get it just off Garibaldi Square, here is the time table) 

Nice Carnival

Nice Carnival is one of the biggest Carnivals in the world, and I was lucky to be here whilst it took place. My mum came to visit during this time so we got to see what went on. The carnival consists of processions in which 18 floats parade through Place Massena. There is a different theme every year, and this year was based on food with the title 'King of Gastronomy' The carnival has a fantastic atmosphere with huge parades taking place day and night for 15 days. We also watched the 'batailles de fleurs,' (flower battles) in which floats are decorated with stunning floral compositions down the promenade and every one fights to collect as many flowers as possible from the extravagant characters on the floats. The opening and closing ceremonies are very grand with talented musicians, dancers and performers, as well as spectacular firework displays. To mark the end of the Carnival they burnt down the king float which marks the start of lent. Nice was buzzing with thousands of people coming from all over the place to experience this mayhem so it was great fun to get involved! Oh and watch out for all the silly string and confetti, you can't avoid it!

Skiing in Auron

Last week we had a few days off uni and some of our friends suggested that we went skiing for the day! Living in Nice we didn't think that it would be feasible seeing as we are on the south coast, but... as it happens, the southern Alps are only an hour and a half away. SO, we went to a resort called Auron- the bus was only €8 return, a days ski pass is €27 (with a student card) and the ski hire was around €20. The resort is perfect for all levels of skiing, there is 42 slopes with a good variety of runs for all levels. It is a beautiful environment- the snow was great and we had a lovely sunny day! Definitely recommend going- it's affordable, close by and a nice change from the beach! (you can turn up on the day without booking, but you can save some dollar and time by doing it in advance online)

Here are some useful links:

To book travel
To rent materials
About Auron