OMG

I am going to borrow Mary G.'s title because it so aptly described today.  Our drive from Vence to Monaco began after we spent a few hours wandering around old Vence, a historical town built around the springs that occur in the area.  There are many founts (taps)  around town, if you get thirsty.
The route from Vence to Monaco involved many kilometers of switchbacks on  unbelievably narrow roads which we shared with Francophone drivers who never slow down!  Miraculously,we made it without incident,but I swear we came close many times.  In order to catch our breath we made stops at two hilltop towns.  These are (breath-taking) medieval shopping centres,selling high end art and clothes (not to us).  I have taken a surfeit of photographs of amazing flowers against ancient walls and laundrey hanging out of interesting windows.  I need a new theme!
Finally we arrived at Monaco, the second smallest nation state in the world.  Monaco is packed with tourists, many Americans, who have been noticably absent on this trip.  To add to the traffic chaos, the city is setting up stadiums and fences for the Grand Prix which will happen next week.  We walked about 5k to the Palace and old city- mostly  uphill.  The old town is a welcome relief from the crowded newer city.  Every square inch of Monaco is built up.  It is over the top.  There is no top..  In spite of all the seediness of gambling etc. it is a fascinating locale in a dramatic landscape filled with very large yachts and extremely expensive cars.  Doug was in heaven.  Bentleys were in abundance.