Trip to France!
Chapter Two: Lille — A Tapestry of Charm
After the enchanting experiences in Paris, I embarked on the next leg of my French adventure: exploring the charming city of Lille. If you haven’t read about my Parisian journey, you can find it in Chapter One
Lille, once proclaimed as the ‘Capital of Flanders,’ is a city where French and Flemish influences intertwine, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. As Charles de Gaulle famously said, ‘Lille has the qualities of a great city: the people, the monuments, and the soul.’
As I bid farewell to the City of Light, I started my drive to Lille, my final destination in this French adventure. Lille, nestled in the north of France near the Belgian border, is a beautiful city renowned for its bustling markets, delectable cuisine, and world-class museums.
The journey from Paris to Lille was a pleasant one, offering glimpses of the picturesque French countryside. As the drive whisked me towards my destination, I found myself eagerly anticipating the new experiences and delights that awaited me in this charming Flemish-influenced city.
I stayed at the Crowne Plaza hotel which is near to the Gare De Fille Station. The station and the area around it is quiet beautiful.
After passing through the station, I made my way to the first stop on my Lille itinerary: the breathtaking Église Saint-Maurice church. As I stepped inside this magnificent Gothic edifice, I was immediately enveloped by an atmosphere of serenity and reverence. The towering stone columns, intricate stained-glass windows, and soft, ethereal light filtering through the interior created a truly divine and peaceful ambiance.
I had the privilege of exploring the church with a few colleagues, and we found ourselves alone in this vast, sacred space. The absence of crowds allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty and tranquility of the church, taking our time to appreciate the exquisite details of the architecture and the palpable sense of history that permeated the air.
As we wandered through the nave and side chapels, I couldn’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship and devotion that had gone into creating such a stunning place of worship. Each stone, each carving, and each brushstroke seemed to hold a story waiting to be discovered.
While I encourage you to delve into the rich history of Église Saint-Maurice on your own, I’d like to share a particularly striking moment from my visit. At the entrance of the church, I came across a beautifully inscribed quote that resonated deeply with me:
“Si tu vastu bout du monde tu trouves lestraces de Dieu,
Si tu vas au fond de toi tu trouves Dieu-même”“If you go to the end of the world you’ll find traces of God,
But if you see deep inside you, you’ll find God within you”
Well, next on the tour was a lovely dinner that left me so mesmerised, I couldn’t resist diving right in without capturing the customary food photos😋. The restaurant served traditional French cuisine with a modern twist, each dish a delightful combination of flavors and textures that showcased the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. Finished the meal with the famous Creme-brulee.
And then, one evening, I stumbled upon a charming little restaurant that seemed to beckon me with its warm, inviting atmosphere. As I settled in and perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to an intriguing dessert that promised a sweet and indulgent end to my meal.
The dish was a sweet crepe with flavoured alcohol, and the presentation was so enchanting that I couldn’t resist capturing the moment. The thin, golden-brown crepe was elegantly draped across the plate, serving as a canvas for the glistening, amber-colored liqueur pooled in the center.
Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, with the soft crepe contrasting the slight crispness of the toasted bread, and the liqueur adding depth to the overall flavour. This creative and indulgent treat was a testament to Lille’s culinary prowess and the delightful surprises the city had to offer.
From the classic snails in garlic to the succulent main course and the creamy crêpe with bacon and salad, every bite was a testament to the skill and passion of the chefs. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service only added to the enjoyment of the meal, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that encouraged lingering and savouring each moment.
Looking back at the photos of the delectable dishes I enjoyed, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia and a renewed appreciation for the culinary wonders that Lille has to offer. These images serve as a reminder of the many moments of pure gastronomic bliss I experienced during my visit, and they never fail to bring a smile to my face.
Throughout the week, the days were quiet busy with work and the only time I got to explore was in the evenings, One of the most memorable moments was stumbling upon a lively street market in the old town. The market was filled with vibrant colours, enticing aromas, and the cheerful chatter of locals and visitors alike. I sampled some delicious local cheeses, artisanal bread, and fresh produce, and even had the opportunity to practice my rusty French with some of the friendly vendors.
Another evening, I visited the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, a world-renowned art museum housing an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and antiquities. The museum’s extensive collection and the stunning architecture of the building itself made for a captivating and enriching experience.
As my time in Lille drew to a close, I reflected on how the city had surprised and charmed me in unexpected ways. The warm hospitality of the people, the rich history and culture, and the delightful culinary scene all contributed to an unforgettable experience. Lille may not be as well-known as Paris, but it certainly holds its own as a must-visit destination in France.
I hope that through my words and photos, I have been able to convey even a fraction of the magic and allure of this enchanting destination. Whether you’re a lover of art, history, gastronomy, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of exploring new places, Lille has something to offer to everyone.
Thank you for staying with me thus far and allowing me to share my adventures with you. I am truly grateful for your support and the opportunity to connect with fellow travellers and dreamers from around the world.
As I continue my journey, I promise to bring you more tales of wonder, more insights into the fascinating cultures and communities I encounter, and more inspiration to seek out your own adventures, both near and far.
So, until next time, keep dreaming, keep exploring, and keep following along as I chronicle my travels and share the beauty and diversity of our incredible world. À bientôt, my friends! 😊
