Day 10 Toulon, France

Arrived in the dark to the vast natural port of Toulon, where the French have their Mediterranean fleet. As Ventura is a large ship it has to berth on the western side of the harbour at La Seyne-sur-Mer. So we had a 15 minute boat tide across the harbour to the main town of Toulon.

So as usual we were on the first shuttle and arrived in Toulon as the brilliant market was just getting going.

We walked up the long street with fresh food on display: the sights and smells were fantastic. The fruit and vegetables were all the right colour, shape and especially smell!

Then we explored further seeing the Place de Liberte with its fountain and the impressive Grand Hotel.

Then on to the railway station which so successfully blends old with new: just like St. Pancras but on a less grand scale! We passed through this station on our way to Nice a few years ago and did not realise what a nice place it was.

So back again into the old town and to the shuttle pick up for our journey back to Ventura.

An afternoon in the sun with this being the hottest day of the cruise with it nudging 30C!

Last night we enjoyed Tom O'Connor(note from Jack – Alan put Ted Rogers but I think he's dead!), he started slowly but seemed to get going as the show progressed. He must be in his mid 70's and is showing signs that he could be past his best! However he still has some of his old charm and sparkle. Tonight is another Headliners show which we are looking forward to.

So we now have and day at sea tomorrow before visiting Barcelona on Sunday. Five ports in a row is a bit tiring so we can relax tomorrow. We hope this sunny and hot weather continues as sea days are much better in the sun!