So I just returned from one of the most amazing trips I've ever been on. Spent the weekend in Nice on the French Riviera and the tiny nation of Monaco. Though the weather in Nice was hardly beautiful, nothing could have taken the beauty away from the gorgeous city. In fact, the dark, ominous clouds compounded with the elegant blue water of the Med made for quite a sight. One of the most interesting part about Nice is the beach. Instead of sand, it is covered with polished smooth rocks. While it gave the beach quite an alluring look, it made wading into the water quite treacherous  Every time a wave would roll in, it would pummel your legs with the stones. Climbing to the top of the hill overlooking the city was well worth stairs. Later, I treated myself to some palatable French pastries. Once we left Nice, we headed to the hostel that we stayed at located on the side of a hill overlooking the Med. We put on our best and headed to the Principality of Monaco. There we went to one of the many casinos. Gambling for the first time, I got 21 on my first game of blackjack. Winning 10 Euros, I decided my luck had run its course and backed out. Back at the Hostel that night, Roecker and I tore it up on the dance floor of the Discotheque. The next day, we returned to Monaco to visit the palace of the royal family of Monaco. We were able to witness the changing of the guard which was impressive. I also finally purchased an authentic French hat. The view from the palace was unbelievable. The pictures don't do it any justice. On our way back to Aix, we stopped at a village that dates back to the medieval times. From atop the bombed out castle, I saw one of the most beautiful views I have ever seen in my life. Truly breathtaking. Even the most professional picture pales in comparison to the artwork of God that I saw. Now I am back in Aix and looking forward to the skiing trip in the Alps this weekend.