Hidden Gem in Southern France: Avignon & Beyond — Arles ✨

Just 20 minutes by train from Avignon, Arles greeted us with Easter festivities—lively streets, music, and crowds. It’s the most commercialized spot on our trip, packed with cafés, restaurants, and shops. Attractions 🏛️ Van Gogh Trail: The artist lived (and painted) here, including the asylum he stayed in. Search "Van Gogh Arles" for a DIY tour! Arles Amphitheatre & Roman Theatre: Built in the same era as Orange’s (we skipped them after visiting Orange). The arena also features in Van Gogh’s works. Food 🍽️ Le Criquet: Mains were decent, but starters? Oof. Missed the famed bouillabaisse (not on the menu). Overly salty octopus salad vs. surprisingly generous cod with shellfish. 🐟 Restaurant L’Oriel (4.9/5 on Google): Fine dining with tiny mains but larger starters. Highlights: Melt-in-your-mouth fish (needed extra sauce) and a quirky pork appetizer. Desserts were refreshing (kiwi + apple cream). Tasty but not mind-blowing. Parc Ornithologique 🦩 A birdwatcher’s paradise! Flamingos and waterbirds galore. 🚌 How to Get There: Take Bus 50 from Arles (€1.20 cash-only, ~40 mins). Tell the driver your stop (Pont du GAU)—we missed ours because the "stop" buttons are only near doors! Last return bus ~7:43 PM (check schedules—no Ubers here!). 🎟️ Park Tips: €8 entry (closes at 6 PM in summer, but you can stay till sunset). Grab a map and explore! Nearby Adventures 🌊 Ride the bus further to the seaside resort town. Rent bikes, horseback ride, or just stroll (if the wind behaves!). #Arles #Provence #VanGogh #TravelFrance #OffTheBeatenPath 🚂🌿