Paris

Left Chamonix on a snowy morning on a train headed for Paris.  The weather here is a bit cold and one day was rainy.  We celebrated Robert's birthday dining on the Avenue Des Champs Elysees with a view of the Arc de Triomphe.  We finally experienced our first pick-pocket attempt on the

Cafe where we celebrate Robert's birthday

metro. A nicely dressed older gentleman attempted to get in Johnny's pockets (fortunately they were zippered).  An American girl studying here saw what was happening and pushed the man's hand away.  He yelled at her and got off as the doors opened.  She then told us what had happened.  We have stayed busy and visited more sites and museums than any sane person would ever attempt! Having a ball.
 Sorry.  Don't know why the text splits sometimes, and have no time to find out.

The Alps

We head for the hills.  The big hills!  First night spent in Aosta and a drive to Breull-Cervinia to attemp a view of Mount Cervinia/Matterhorn.  Not good view, but nice alpine town and snowing.  Next day a bus, via the tunnel under Mount Bianca/Mount Blanc to Chamonix, France for a couple of days.  This is a very beautiful skiing village and it snowed off and on the entire visit.  Not great views of Mt. Blanc though.  We manage to have a great time anyway.

what we're not seeing...

Cinque Terre

After a long train ride, we arrive in Monterosso to meet up with Johnny and Angela who arrived the day before.  Our plan was to walk the scenic trails between the the little villages beginning at Riomaggiore.  Unfortunately we discover that recent storms have washed out parts of the trail and some sections are closed.  We have fun and enjoy the amazing scenery in Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and the seaside hillsides between.

olive trees