Before coming abroad, I intended to travel to as many different countries as possible because it’s so easy. Every weekend I planned out ideas of where I wanted to go and I didn’t intend to stay in Nice much on the weekends. However, after living here for almost 3 months, I’ve realized that I actually prefer to stay in Nice for the weekend rather than constantly traveling to a new country. Don’t get me wrong, I love to travel and explore new places, food, culture, etc. but there is just so much to do in Nice and around the neighboring villages. The day trips I’ve taken to places like Èze, Grasse, St. Paul de Vence, Villefranche-sur-mer, Antibes, Menton, and Monaco have been some of my favorites–and most of them are only a 20-30min train from Nice!
My program organizes multiple excursions throughout the semester where we visit different places along the Côte d’Azur. A few weeks ago I did an excursion called “Coeur de Riviera”, which translates to “ Heart of the Riviera”, where I was able to explore some of the most beautiful places along the French Riviera.
Our first stop was Mont Alban where we had a panoramic view of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Villefranche. It was absolutely breathtaking. I was even able to watch a soccer match from the top! Our tour guide, Silvian, is from Villefranche and we were able to learn some history about the region as well as the best beaches to go to during the summer. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, nicknamed “Billionaire’s Peninsula”, is located between Villefranche and Beaulieu. But, interestingly enough, before it was one of the most expensive places to live in the world, the land was used by shepherds as a grazing field for their sheep.
Our next stop was Éze, a small, medieval village on top of a hill, and it’s probably one of my favorite places along the Riviera. This was my second time in Éze and I was still in awe of all its beauty. The first time I visited it was the off-season, so the majority of the shops and restaurants were closed (it was pretty much a ghost town). However, this time the village came alive, with bustling cafes and restaurants and it was a completely different experience. We visited the gardens on the top of the hill which will forever be one of my favorite places.
Our last stop was a place called “La Tête de Chien”, which literally means “The Dog’s Head.” A strange name, right? But it was probably one of my favorite places I’ve ever been to with the best views of Monaco. C’était extraordinaire! (It was extraordinary!) Have you ever been to a place with an amazing view that just leaves you in awe to where you just stand there in amazement? That was me at La Tête de Chien. I kept asking myself if this was actually real. I probably stood in the same place for 15min just looking out into the distance watching the sailboats, the soccer matches, and even a go-kart race.
It’s moments like these like these where I realize how amazing of a home base Nice is. I look forward to returning after each trip. There’s just so much to do and explore in the South of France. That being said, I still love to travel to other countries. I’ve already been to five other countries–Italy, the Czech Republic, Morocco, Monaco, and Ireland. Each place has such unique and beautiful characteristics. From Italy’s food, the Czech Republic’s architecture, Morocco’s vast landscapes, and Ireland’s captivating coasts these places took my breath away and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to visit these places.
However, during the last few months I’ve realized that, even though it’s exciting to be able to travel to so many countries, it’s just as important to explore your home city and the surrounding areas. Some of my favorite memories and hidden gems have been in the South of France and there is still so much to explore! If you are thinking about, or are already planning, to study abroad I highly recommend that you dedicate a few weekends to explore your new home and all the amazing things it has to offer.
À bientôt!
Kadence
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