Le monde de Lewis (Lewis' world): The Kingdom of Avignon

Good Morning Avignon!

Greetings from the latest King of France. You've heard of Louis XIV (the Sun King) and Louis XVI (who faced the guillotine with wife Marie Antoinette)? Well this is Louis XIX, supreme ruler of France, already taller than its President, and winning over the populace one city at a time.

I have followed up my conquest of Paris with a visit to Avignon, enjoying a pleasant train ride from the capital (in first class, of course). Apparently, there's been some competition in the past, with seven Popes once calling Avignon home. To overthrow this town would require some careful planning.

Unfortunately, my advisors have not been much help, lacking the necessary diplomatic skills. First Dad wanted to call my blog 'Le monde du Lewis' ('The world of the Lewis' - had a nice ring to it, but I'll save the third person references for my professional sporting career), then he ordered a pastiche macaron. Luckily he received the macaron with pistachios that he wanted and not an allsort. Mum also cracks under pressure, reverting to a mix of English and Italian whenever asked a question in the French language ('Si, dinner was bellissimo').

I wanted to learn more, so I consulted the guide book. I was a little distracted, however...

Might I add, Father, that you're looking more Rubenesque by the day. (Note from Mum: He actually is wearing underwear.)

Now fully versed in the lore of the town, I got in the wheels and hit the town.

That was meant to be a photo of the ancient city walls. Dad really should not be allowed near cameras.

You can see that they have put me in a hat and sunglasses (to protect me from the hot sun - 32 degrees today!). They lasted about 2 minutes. Mum and Dad may look good in sunnies, but I just look like a bogan. Not very King-like.

First stop, the Palace of Popes and neighbouring church. Mum often complains to Dad that she feels like a '50s housewife, and with those latest French fashions, she now looks like one. What time can we expect dinner, Mama?

Here's a look at my new courtyard. Amazing - no dog poo!

The scenery from the stained glass windows is also dazzling.

Not sure which was lopsided - the window or Mum's head.

I knew brute force alone wouldn't win me the people, so I mounted a campaign in the park. Dad went home to study (not very supportive today) but Lozzie, Geoff and my mate Noah were in.