Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Day #8: Thursday, March 16 (France)


Our day started in Caen. It was a very foggy morning with the changing temperatures which made the first Canadian cemetery, Beny-Sur-Mer, that we visited quite solemn. We had the chance to locate a specific soldier from Hamilton, Ontario. Many were just 17 years old. Then we drove to Bernieres-Sur-Mer to visit the Canada House which was the first residence the Canadian soldiers liberated during the Normandy invasion, June 6, 1944. This was something to celebrate so we enjoyed a bit of time by the ocean and even collected some shells. From here we drove to Juno Beach to tour a German bunker and tunnel. We learned a lot about D day along the coast of France with the five beach landing attacks. Juno beach was a devastating attack but pivotal for the Allied forces. Even with the losses, the Canadian + other Allied forces were successful which assisted in the final outcome of the war. The museum was very informative and an important learning experience. From here we drove to the next village for lunch. We saw the floating roads, sunken bunkers and military equipment along the coast of this town. Plus enjoyed various treats from an amazing French patisserie! This was followed by 4 hour bus ride into Paris!! The metro ride to dinner was exciting and brought us closer to the restaurant where we had dinner; the basement was actually a medieval dungeon! This construction was remarkable and added quite the atmosphere for our meal. The acoustics were something else which enhanced the volume of our group! What an amazing place to have dinner. The French flams were amazing. We then walked to the River Seine to enjoy a boat cruise; this was beautiful at night! Tim's birthday was our main focus all day and was topped off with French cake, candles and birthday cheer at the hotel. Hip!


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