We always get a kick out of setting up an apartment when travelling, especially when the dealing with a foreign language. Basic appliances are mystifying – dishwasher, microwave (seems so easy, ha!), clothes washer (another easy one, ha!), and the all-important coffee maker. Mary has resorted to using each manufacturer’s web site for English instruction manuals. Brilliant!
I did early recon and gathering this morning: 1st shot at groceries (which of the 200 varieties of yogurt should we buy?); hardware (extension cord & another converter – try explaining that to a French clerk using hand signals); and the all-important wine & beer run. Marie found a great craft beer outlet a short walk from our pad – whew.
The weather is perfect and we are a short walk from a wide choice of al-fresco dining options. This could work out well.
D.
Yes, it’s settle-in day. We’ve run the gamut in our many travels with appliances. The best place was in Fremantle, Western Australia; the hostess had the instruction manual for every single appliance and remote in the house available. Others, not so much. The basic run down yesterday was, push this button to start the washer. Hmm, a little more complicated than that. But, I got it figured out. Before this trip is over, I will learn where the actual ‘start’ button is on the microwave, but for now the ‘+minute’ button works just fine. I’ll let you know when I try to tackle the cooktop and oven.
Nice breakfast with fresh baguette, yogurt, orange juice and coffee. After Dick’s many foraging trips, we snack on some great ham, cheese and bread for lunch on the terrace.
One of the restaurants recommended by our hostess; ‘Le Cintra’, was our stop for this evening. We shared the fresh oysters, then Dick had a wonderful Tagliatelle Pasta with a fresh Morel sauce. I stayed with the Salad Nicoise, very refreshing. A quick stop at La Nova for a nightcap and back to the ranch.
The weather is perfect, high of mid 80’s during the day and low 60’s at night. No rain in sight for the next few days.
M.
