The contrast between the heat and dryness of sunny Malta and the lush, green countryside of Ardèche was striking. Birds fluttered about, and insects buzzed everywhere. I longed for my macro lens to capture the intricate details of these tiny creatures, though the presence of our kids kept my hands full. One can't miss the cicadas in the South of France, their loud chorus filling the air as they emerged from underground. Observing their transformation from pupa to adult was fascinating.
Throughout the week, we visited several quaint villages that seemed frozen in time, reminiscent of medieval France. Walking through these cobblestone-paved streets, I couldn't help but imagine life in those times. Some villages, nestled by the river, evoked imagery of elvish settlements straight out of Tolkien's tales. While I was lost in these daydreams, our kids were more interested in swimming, tree climbing in adventure parks, canoeing, and shopping for souvenirs.
Nonetheless, I am confident that the beauty of Ardèche left a lasting impression on them. Highlights included the stunning Pont d’Arc and the charming town of Ruoms, where our accommodation was conveniently located.
After a week in Ardèche, we returned to Marseille to spend more time with my wife's family. My son Gabriel and I ventured out to the city centre, braving heavy rain to visit the harbour and then walking to Palais Longchamp. Despite the rain, we managed to capture some memorable shots and enjoyed our visit thoroughly.
After two weeks in France, we returned to Malta with a trove of beautiful memories and a sense of relaxation that we hadn't felt in weeks. The trip not only strengthened our family bonds but also allowed me to indulge in my passion for photography, capturing the essence of our experiences. This vacation was a reminder of the importance of taking time to unwind, explore new places, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
