An early start to my day for a “Taste of Normandy” tour in northwest France. This part of the French countryside is very green with rolling hills and is sprinkled with quaint little villages, horse farms, flaxseed farms (some of the first in France) and apple orchards (to produce the local “brandy” calvados). Normandy also produces millions of pounds of Camembert cheese annually.

A stop at a local calvados distillery was interesting. Produced from a mixture of many varietals of tart apples, this “brandy” it is a local favorite. I can say, that after a small taste, I am not a fan!

The traditional style of architecture in Normandy is half timber construction. Sometimes edged with brick and/or in interesting zigzag patterns, it is somewhat unique to this part of France.

My tour ended with a short visit to Trouville, a fairly large city on the “sea” (English Channel). Parisians have been visiting this beachside resort area for centuries. A huge casino sits across from a long wooden boardwalk that features carnival rides, food stalls and many hotels.

Back near the port is the little city of Honfleur. It was walking distance to the ship and had a huge Saturday market… rugs, clothing, shoes, household items and beautiful local farm raised fruits and vegetables were offered. Many sidewalk cafes and bars offered the shoppers and tourists (like me) a chance to taste some fresh mussels and oysters.