A new Dawn around Europe Then the UK.

[drron]

The next morning we were steaming in to Menton France.

 

[drron]

It was another tender port and then we were off to the Villa Ephrussi De Rotschild. Many went to Monaco but it holds no interest for me. Beside on this excursion we drove around it anyway so can say we have seen it. So from the bus on a lengthy ride. They call this a beach?
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A distant view of Monaco.




And then we wizz around it. Many of the new buildings are built with Russian money.

 

[drron]

And then we were there. Some good views then a walk up to the villa.

 

[drron]

We were off inside to start with morning tea. A bit sad as when you book with a Virtuoso agent you usually have a Virtuoso agent as a host. Ie getting a freebie. This time it was a pair of sisters and they were useless. We had to announce our presence to them after they came to our table to say hello to a NZ couple who were Virtuoso clients. Unfortunately they were on a few of our excursions and they were the ones who were always last back to the bus. Thank goodness we took the OBC instead of a Virtuoso excursion.

 

[drron]

It was then time for a walk around the gardens.

 

[drron]

Very extensive gardens and often nice shade. Altough the severe heat of summer had gone temperatures were still 28-30C.









The Goldfinger house.

 

[drron]

S









good views from various places around the garden.

 

[drron]

Then into the Japanese section.

 

[drron]

 

[drron]

Still more of the gardens.

 

[drron]

The last of the garden.

 

[drron]

Now some free time to explore the villa.

 

[drron]

the Baroness was a ruthless collector. A really extensive porcelain collection. as well as paintings sculptures and religious art. As well according to our guide being very good at entertaining her friends.

 

[drron]

Truly an amazing place.

 

[drron]

 

[drron]

Nearly at the end.

 

[drron]

Now walking back to the bus.

 

[drron]

Now back on the bus.








Now a couple to keep the geologist interested.

 

[drron]

Back into town then on to the tender.

 

[drron]

When back on board it was up to the pool deck for a light lunch. Mrsdrron had a toasted sandwich And I think it was chicken and avo and mine was a simple burger.



And then a few more shots of Menton.







And another small way that costs are being cut. Below is the pad of paper I got on a previous cruise and above is the 2 bits of paper you get now.