Escape from Paris

I had the opportunity to spend a week in Toulon, France, with a friend, Steve*, from Paris, that I actually didn't know too well. I am so glad that I took the opportunity. My time in Toulon is already one of my favorite experiences that I've had in France.

I took the TGV train from Paris to Toulon, arriving about 4 hours later, but the time passed by quickly. I love the TGV. It's like a giant, quiet airplane, with more space, a great view and a food bar--and less rules. 

In Toulon, I stayed at the home of my friend's mom and his stepdad for most of the trip--though later I was introduced to Steve's* real dad as well. Steve's stepdad and mom were some of the coolest people ever: world-travelers, open, kind, and physically fit. They definitely left an impact on me. I am more determined to become a world-traveller.

Each day we did something pleasant: one day a hike, the next a bike ride, a run, a stroll through an old medieval town...

Sweaters and beaches don't match.

For New Year's we went to a party in a friend of a friend's garage. There was a DJ and excellent music. The French kids were pretty friendly. At the countdown we set off some fireworks. We stayed at the party until 3am. 

French people start a meal with an appetizer like these (they're kind of gross sometimes).

The main course food.
 Foie Gras, aka, duck liver, is a French favorite. Apparently it's acceptable to eat 7-layer-chip dip straight-up by spoon.

Someone pranked the candy tray by putting garlic inside these banana marshmallow chews.
 I found out because I ate it.

 While staying with Steve's parents on both sides, got to experience some real home-cooking. From roasted sweet potatoes, to home-made panna cotta, to home-made fries (better than the restaurants!) I was a true guest. We had cheese, and maybe fruit at the end of every meal, then potentially topped off with a dessert. To some how thank Steve's parents, I prepared for them a traditional American breakfast. This was great because our breakfasts are very different from the french style: French people drink coffee for breakfast; the meal pretty much doesn't exist. Pancakes and waffles are considered a dessert here. 

Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Chocolate Chip Pancakes, OJ, and Bananas.
With Canadian syrup too! (Hard to find in France).

The last day Steve and I drove to Saint Tropez, the town, and then visited a beach nearby.

Almost ugly enough to buy.

French people don't show their teeth usually in photos. This is me being French.

I made him smile with his teeth.

The beach at St Tropez.

The best part of the experience was making friends with a genuine French family.

(No Teeth)