It’s that time of year most Niçois long for, when the beach beckons at all times of day, beachwear becomes common on the Promenade and masses of tourists infuse the local economy. Art exhibitions and jazz festivals incite locals and vacationers alike. For us, however, it’s time to go.
A friend said she’d heard this summer in Europe would be horrifically hot (it is 87F/30.5C in Helsinki, a record, as I write). A stifling humidity and a strange hot wind have visited Nice the past two days. Perhaps we’re getting out in time.
Tomorrow we jet off to Brittany, the region that so impressed us last year, where despite the occasional daytime heat the nights are cool and the Atlantic too cold to attract partygoers. We’ll explore the western coast, notably the Crozon peninsula, and then settle into Fréhel for the August languor.
This isn’t to say I won’t miss Nice. I’ve gotten accustomed to its pace, and my daily rituals involving the sea, the lively markets and picturesque “quartiers” have enriched my life, especially photographically. So has the gratifying presence of so many fine new friends. I will be glad to return.
So, for the next few months, I’ll be posting on my extended summer vacation. Where will you be?
kmazz 
We will all miss you too Kathleen here in Nice for the morning coffees and teas, and the evening apero, the delight of a new discovery, a film together,comradry and conversation. Hope you all have a fabulous summer and enrich us, as always w news of your travels…
John and I look forward to seeing you when you are in Brittany/Rennes. It will be great to hang out with you again !
Well said. We wish you both a joyful and restful time together in Brittany. Looking forward to to more blogs and your thoughtful insights of you journey. I certainly have been remise about my blog but inspiration may come in Ireland.
Safe travels tomorrow and bon voyage. Until October. À bientôt. Cicely
Cicely Hand Sent from my iPhone 07 67 40 09 24
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What a great summer you have planned…you both deserve it! Can’t wait to see pix.
Sent from my iPad
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Looking forward to insights from and about Brittany. We will be chilling by the Salish Sea and hoping for a timely conclusion to our house remodel!
🙂 nice stormy beach photo!
Sent from my iPhone so please excuse the brevity
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Kathleen,
Thanks for the new post. I remember traveling along the coast in Brittany in 1979. Very un-touristy at that time as well. One day we went into a restaurant and the whole room turned to see two young tourists come through the door!
Your pictures are beautiful. Have a wonderful summer.
Jane Baars (from Portland friend of Kay Irwin and Nancy Murray)
Hi, Jane. Thank you for reading. Let me know if you come this way.
And please say “hi” to Kay and Nancy.