Lille

 Lille

Lille is the 10th largest city in France, where Paris dominates, but the first impression on the descent into Paris and the train to Lille is that the country is largely rural. Large fields in rotation with the yellow canola prominent and small villages featuring a church spire are the dominant feature of Picardy.

Lille centre is cobbled, pretty and ancient spoiled only by occasional piles of rubbish and the aroma of ancient sewage systems. We have enjoyed walking from our little very-French hotel close by the main square. Eating out involves walking from one restaurant to another checking out menus. This game can occupy several hours as there are literally hundreds nearby.

The highlight on a cold, drizzly Friday was a visit to the large art gallery where a special exhibition on Monet was in residence, before sharing a platter and a pichet of rose for lunch. We have acquired French sims for our phones now. An attempt will be made to get to Bruges and Ghent over the weekend.