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From Moulin Rouge to Gaudi's City
When Elizabeth receives a diagnosis of breast cancer, she reassesses her life’s to-do list. Having always suppressed her travel longings, she opens her neglected 'someday' ledger and takes a much closer look at the contents. After an opportune invitation from a friend to meet in Paris, and her sister’s enthusiastic agreement to be part of the adventure, a plan begins to take shape. Join the Australian trio as they savour the sights of France and Spain, where no trip is complete without a morsel of local cuisine and a sip of something sparkling.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 11, 2017
24 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Bauer
3 books68 followersI was born in Queensland, Australia and lived my first twelve years in the country. My family moved to Brisbane before I started high school and I graduated from university with a degree in speech pathology. I accepted a position at large regional hospital in New South Wales and I still live in the area over 40 years later.
I am happily married, a mother of two, grandmother of five and devoted assistant to one very bossy tortoiseshell cat named Lucy. My career in speech pathology eventually morphed into the totally unrelated field of retail management in a university science centre and planetarium.
Travel has always been a focus and yes – there was always a bucket list. I had many things I intended to do “someday” but that was always in my hazy future. I never expected it would be brought into stark relief until I was diagnosed with cancer.
Following my treatment, a travel timetable began to take shape. Guam was first, followed quickly by European and North American adventures. My illness nudged another long-held interest to the fore and I began chronicling my trips with extensive photography, promising myself I would also write about my exploits - someday.
With much nudging and encouragement from friends and family, I discovered that I was able to write about my travels using my fairly extensive photo catalog as a timeline. An early 7,000 word essay about driving through France was accepted by my publisher Ant Press with the proviso that it would be extended to 80,000 words. My first book “From Moulin Rouge to Gaudi’s City”, the first of my Someday Travels, is the result.
I am happily married, a mother of two, grandmother of five and devoted assistant to one very bossy tortoiseshell cat named Lucy. My career in speech pathology eventually morphed into the totally unrelated field of retail management in a university science centre and planetarium.
Travel has always been a focus and yes – there was always a bucket list. I had many things I intended to do “someday” but that was always in my hazy future. I never expected it would be brought into stark relief until I was diagnosed with cancer.
Following my treatment, a travel timetable began to take shape. Guam was first, followed quickly by European and North American adventures. My illness nudged another long-held interest to the fore and I began chronicling my trips with extensive photography, promising myself I would also write about my exploits - someday.
With much nudging and encouragement from friends and family, I discovered that I was able to write about my travels using my fairly extensive photo catalog as a timeline. An early 7,000 word essay about driving through France was accepted by my publisher Ant Press with the proviso that it would be extended to 80,000 words. My first book “From Moulin Rouge to Gaudi’s City”, the first of my Someday Travels, is the result.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 16, 2017
In this, her debut memoir, Elizabeth Bauer takes the reader from her home in Australia where she has been undergoing treatment for cancer, on a trip to Europe. Her destination countries are France and Spain – France being a place she had fallen in love with years before.
Travelling with her sister, and later joining a family friend, the author details each day of their vacation, the first stopping point being Paris. For me, a particular highlight here is her story about their visit to Monet’s gardens. I was completely entranced by her delicate descriptive eloquence, and ability to paint a picture as vivid as the gardens themselves.
Their tour continues, taking them to a more rural part of France, and finally Barcelona. Her account of the Spanish city is so appealing it made me want to jump on a plane and immerse myself in the culture she so exquisitely describes.
Throughout, the author uses rich language to illustrate her experiences. These create a wonderful tapestry filled with intricate colours and imagery. I loved the book from start to finish and am already looking forward to reading accounts of her next trip.
Travelling with her sister, and later joining a family friend, the author details each day of their vacation, the first stopping point being Paris. For me, a particular highlight here is her story about their visit to Monet’s gardens. I was completely entranced by her delicate descriptive eloquence, and ability to paint a picture as vivid as the gardens themselves.
Their tour continues, taking them to a more rural part of France, and finally Barcelona. Her account of the Spanish city is so appealing it made me want to jump on a plane and immerse myself in the culture she so exquisitely describes.
Throughout, the author uses rich language to illustrate her experiences. These create a wonderful tapestry filled with intricate colours and imagery. I loved the book from start to finish and am already looking forward to reading accounts of her next trip.
January 26, 2020
A delightful memoir about the author's trip through France and Spain. Bauer provides a detailed account of the hotels, monuments, museums, and towns she and her friends visit, as well as the food they sampled along the way. I particularly enjoyed her descriptions of the smaller, less-known areas of France - she's given me several ideas of places to visit!
This is a great book for armchair travelers interested in France or Spain, or those who are thinking of exploring the French countryside.
This is a great book for armchair travelers interested in France or Spain, or those who are thinking of exploring the French countryside.
December 9, 2017
A delight! An exciting new voice in the travel memoir genre.
I really enjoyed reading this richly descriptive travel journal and found the information fascinating. Having never visited Paris, I feel I've learned a lot. Lovely, gentle reading.
Elizabeth had vowed at school that one day she'd visit Paris. Fast forward to when she is 58, married, two grown up kids, they’ve flown the nest, married. Still she's intending to travel 'one day'. Events will later push the one day to the right now. Her breast cancer fight is only mentioned briefly, this book is not really concerned with that, it just provides the reason for her making trips of a lifetime, she's got that behind her and she's really starting to live again.
This was one of those books you want to take your time with and savour every moment. I loved all the travel and historical details-I read it hungrily and soaked in the knowledge avidly. She so perfectly describes every nuance of her trip. It's evident that a lot of thought and care has gone into this and it's beautifully presented. I like the little sketches at the chapter beginnings, and I love the cover-it's got one of those covers that speaks out to you!
A lovely relaxing day by day tour through Paris and Barcelona-and the author is a wonderful guide. Looking forward to more! A simply delicious book.
I really enjoyed reading this richly descriptive travel journal and found the information fascinating. Having never visited Paris, I feel I've learned a lot. Lovely, gentle reading.
Elizabeth had vowed at school that one day she'd visit Paris. Fast forward to when she is 58, married, two grown up kids, they’ve flown the nest, married. Still she's intending to travel 'one day'. Events will later push the one day to the right now. Her breast cancer fight is only mentioned briefly, this book is not really concerned with that, it just provides the reason for her making trips of a lifetime, she's got that behind her and she's really starting to live again.
This was one of those books you want to take your time with and savour every moment. I loved all the travel and historical details-I read it hungrily and soaked in the knowledge avidly. She so perfectly describes every nuance of her trip. It's evident that a lot of thought and care has gone into this and it's beautifully presented. I like the little sketches at the chapter beginnings, and I love the cover-it's got one of those covers that speaks out to you!
A lovely relaxing day by day tour through Paris and Barcelona-and the author is a wonderful guide. Looking forward to more! A simply delicious book.
December 24, 2018
After a bout of illness and treatment, E.J. Bauer decided to fulfil a long-held dream: to visit France. This well-written and absorbing memoir recounts her first visit, accompanied by her sister and a friend.
I’ve lived in France for more than 20 years. Nonetheless, I learned a lot from Ms Bauer’s book that I didn’t already know. The adventure starts in Paris, where every day brings new discoveries and excitements as the three women negotiate public transport, dine up the Eiffel Tower, visit the Moulin Rouge cabaret, take day trips to the Loire and Monet’s house in Giverny and indulge in champagne and retail therapy.
A quite different experience awaits them in the Hérault in southern France, a TGV-ride away, where they rent a village house and navigate in their hire car through narrow streets that weren’t built for modern traffic. Here, the pace of life is slower, but their itinerary is almost as hectic as in Paris.
Their third and final stop is over the border in exuberant Barcelona, Gaudi’s city. They savour tapas, Spanish Cava (instead of champagne), the flamboyant architecture and the joie de vivre that characterises Spanish culture.
I was struck by the contagious enthusiasm with which Ms Bauer describes her experiences – even the downsides, like the Little Yellow Train in the Pyrénées breaking down and foiling her travel plans, while struggling with some persistent health issues. The book is positive but realistic about foreign travel. There are glimpses of the underbelly of tourism, such as narrow escapes from tourist scams or the Paris concierge who becomes indifferent to the women’s urgent need for a taxi once they are officially off his hands.
The ingredients for a successful long-distance trip like this are obviously good planning and organisation skills, a thirst for new experiences and a healthy sense of humour. Ms Bauer clearly has all three in large supply. I look forward to reading more about her travels.
I’ve lived in France for more than 20 years. Nonetheless, I learned a lot from Ms Bauer’s book that I didn’t already know. The adventure starts in Paris, where every day brings new discoveries and excitements as the three women negotiate public transport, dine up the Eiffel Tower, visit the Moulin Rouge cabaret, take day trips to the Loire and Monet’s house in Giverny and indulge in champagne and retail therapy.
A quite different experience awaits them in the Hérault in southern France, a TGV-ride away, where they rent a village house and navigate in their hire car through narrow streets that weren’t built for modern traffic. Here, the pace of life is slower, but their itinerary is almost as hectic as in Paris.
Their third and final stop is over the border in exuberant Barcelona, Gaudi’s city. They savour tapas, Spanish Cava (instead of champagne), the flamboyant architecture and the joie de vivre that characterises Spanish culture.
I was struck by the contagious enthusiasm with which Ms Bauer describes her experiences – even the downsides, like the Little Yellow Train in the Pyrénées breaking down and foiling her travel plans, while struggling with some persistent health issues. The book is positive but realistic about foreign travel. There are glimpses of the underbelly of tourism, such as narrow escapes from tourist scams or the Paris concierge who becomes indifferent to the women’s urgent need for a taxi once they are officially off his hands.
The ingredients for a successful long-distance trip like this are obviously good planning and organisation skills, a thirst for new experiences and a healthy sense of humour. Ms Bauer clearly has all three in large supply. I look forward to reading more about her travels.
February 18, 2019
This uniquely engaging and well-written travel memoir is a feast for the senses. EJ Bauer’s research shines through in her portrayal of the sights, smells, and tastes of Paris, the South of France, and Barcelona, which become their own characters in EJ Bauer’s journey. This is not your run-of the-mill travel log of: “I saw this, I smelled that.” EJ’s creative writing style transports the reader along for the ride, so the reader “sees” what EJ sees and “tastes” what EJ tastes. If you cannot experience Barcelona’s architecture and mosaics first hand, then EJ’s book is the next best thing to being there, ditto Paris and the South of France. If you already have had the good fortune to visit these sites, EJ’s insights are bound to conjure your own favorite memories. EJ would be THE perfect travel companion. Her easy, positive attitude is notable when “travel snags” threaten to interfere.
September 7, 2017
I beta read this wonderful memoir and loved every word of it. Well written and wonderful. You don't have to 'know' Paris to enjoy it - I am lucky enough to have visited Paris and this book brought back some wonderful memories.
October 2, 2017
I was a Beta reader for this memoir and I have to say I loved every word of it. A serious illness makes her rethink her future plans. No more putting things off till the future! It’s the time to make dreams come true. Her friend Bron is planning a trip to France and asks Elizabeth to join her there. She agrees and invites her sister to join her. After a flurry of travel arrangements they are on their way, planning a stay in Paris, the south of France and time in Barcelona.
I loved the author’s enthusiasm and delight in all she sees and experiences in her travels. Beautiful descriptive writing made me see afresh places I have visited myself like Saint-Chappelle and the Champs Elysees. I loved their search for the perfect Crème Brulee and their enjoyment of a Kir. It’s brimming with historical information and vivid descriptions which make it a joy to read. Their arrangements don’t always go to plan but the intrepid trio manage to make their way to Barcelona. All too soon the trip is over. For me the book was over too soon. I do hope to read more from Elizabeth very soon.
I loved the author’s enthusiasm and delight in all she sees and experiences in her travels. Beautiful descriptive writing made me see afresh places I have visited myself like Saint-Chappelle and the Champs Elysees. I loved their search for the perfect Crème Brulee and their enjoyment of a Kir. It’s brimming with historical information and vivid descriptions which make it a joy to read. Their arrangements don’t always go to plan but the intrepid trio manage to make their way to Barcelona. All too soon the trip is over. For me the book was over too soon. I do hope to read more from Elizabeth very soon.
March 26, 2020
What an uplifting read, and what better way to celebrate the end of your cancer treatment than to go exploring and enjoying the wonderful sights and tastes of France and Spain with two other ladies.
This is such a merry tale of adventure and indulgence, as Aussie Elizabeth, her sister and a mutual friend hunt down the very best crème brûlée, sample the local wines and champagnes, and get into in some serious retail therapy all the way from Paris to Barcelona.
The author writes vividly, involving the reader in the delights (and occasional blips) she and her companions encounter on their travels. If you are currently locked down due to the Coronavirus, and even if you are not, do buy this book and allow yourself to be gently swept along on this heart-warming journey.
This is such a merry tale of adventure and indulgence, as Aussie Elizabeth, her sister and a mutual friend hunt down the very best crème brûlée, sample the local wines and champagnes, and get into in some serious retail therapy all the way from Paris to Barcelona.
The author writes vividly, involving the reader in the delights (and occasional blips) she and her companions encounter on their travels. If you are currently locked down due to the Coronavirus, and even if you are not, do buy this book and allow yourself to be gently swept along on this heart-warming journey.
September 12, 2017
I was fortunate enough to Beta read this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
After a diagnosis of breast cancer, the author, along with her sister, travels from Australia to Paris to meet up with a friend. Between them all, the ladies of a certain age decide to go on a road trip through France and Spain. EJ Bauer is also suffering from a painful attack of Shingles, so despite this and an assorted collection of aches and pains between them all it doesn't stop the ladies from enjoying each day to the full.
The book is a Francophile foodies dream because there are a lot of sumptuous sounding meals sampled along the way in various eateries and restaurants, along with a very enthusiastic sampling of local wines and of course a glass of champagne to wash it all down! (And why not!) Some calamities happen along the way that they all take in their stride.
Full of descriptions of the places they visited, much Aussie humour and camaraderie. I was sorry when the book finished it was such a good fun read.
After a diagnosis of breast cancer, the author, along with her sister, travels from Australia to Paris to meet up with a friend. Between them all, the ladies of a certain age decide to go on a road trip through France and Spain. EJ Bauer is also suffering from a painful attack of Shingles, so despite this and an assorted collection of aches and pains between them all it doesn't stop the ladies from enjoying each day to the full.
The book is a Francophile foodies dream because there are a lot of sumptuous sounding meals sampled along the way in various eateries and restaurants, along with a very enthusiastic sampling of local wines and of course a glass of champagne to wash it all down! (And why not!) Some calamities happen along the way that they all take in their stride.
Full of descriptions of the places they visited, much Aussie humour and camaraderie. I was sorry when the book finished it was such a good fun read.
March 15, 2021
I thought to title my review of this happy and joyful book, bubbles and baubles, for all the champagne drunk and retail therapy carried out in its pages. And why not? When a dream of a lifetime finally becomes reality you have to seize it with both hands (or at least the one not holding a champagne glass), especially when that dream may never have happened.
The author has lived in Australia all her life but Europe, and specifically Paris, was a dream she had held on to since childhood. It takes a life-threatening illness to make her put that dream into action.
In ‘From Moulin Rouge to Gaudi’s City’, Elizabeth and her sister travel to Paris, the south of France and Barcelona over a glorious three weeks. In Paris they meet up with a friend from home and together they tour the sights including the Moulin Rouge. Elizabeth’s talent is in describing her experiences so the reader is involved in the trip rather than being a spectator. I drank bubbly whenever they did, viewed Paris from the Seine, enjoyed exquisite French meals. I then sat back and enjoyed the ride to the south of France in Fifi, the newly named hire car, enjoyed more champagne, at a tasting no less, and more shopping (glad it wasn’t my purse), and the sights. From France we headed to Barcelona and a change of diet to cava and tapas, and a change of scenery to Gaudi’s incredible architecture.
I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the follow on and more Spanish adventures.
The author has lived in Australia all her life but Europe, and specifically Paris, was a dream she had held on to since childhood. It takes a life-threatening illness to make her put that dream into action.
In ‘From Moulin Rouge to Gaudi’s City’, Elizabeth and her sister travel to Paris, the south of France and Barcelona over a glorious three weeks. In Paris they meet up with a friend from home and together they tour the sights including the Moulin Rouge. Elizabeth’s talent is in describing her experiences so the reader is involved in the trip rather than being a spectator. I drank bubbly whenever they did, viewed Paris from the Seine, enjoyed exquisite French meals. I then sat back and enjoyed the ride to the south of France in Fifi, the newly named hire car, enjoyed more champagne, at a tasting no less, and more shopping (glad it wasn’t my purse), and the sights. From France we headed to Barcelona and a change of diet to cava and tapas, and a change of scenery to Gaudi’s incredible architecture.
I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the follow on and more Spanish adventures.
September 15, 2017
A story about three ladies from Australia fulfilling a passion to visit France and then Spain. Unfortunately a case of SHINGLES flared up just before the trip (I had them and I am amazed she made it). Paris first and lots of tours and explanations--if you have been to Paris you will recognize so much and probably learn more. Next, rent a car and toddle around France without damaging said car-- Fifi. Car returned and train trip to Spain with a little help. Barcelona, again a lot of information--as I haven't been it will be helpful for a future trip. Lots of food amd wine and a lot of information packed into this book. How amazing that three ladies got along in such close quarters!! Hey, pack light next time. I would definitely recommend this book.
October 5, 2017
A brush with breast cancer pushes the author into contemplating her bucket list. A long life dream, since studying French in secondary school, was to travel to France. A trip was planned and along with her friend and sister, the adventure begins. You are taken along with them, exploring Paris, driving and staying in rural France, a train ride to Spain, time in Catalonia and Barcelona in this wonderful travel memoir. Beautifully written in an easy to read style, I was captivated reading the history of places visited, the description of the architecture along with the lighthearted and humorous hiccups along the way. The author's attention to detail was well researched and woven gently into the story, making it such an interesting and entertaining read. I highly recommend this book and am now inspired to visit and explore places mentioned myself.
January 28, 2021
Paris and Barcelona are two of my favourite cities, so I was very keen to read
From Moulin Rouge To Gaudi's City. It didn't let me down!
I was surprised by the author's eye for detail. The book is written very clear,
structured and easy to read.
This was not just a story about Paris and Barcelona. It even gave me
some new travel ideas, which I hope to complete as soon
as it is possible to travel again.
I recommend this book to all people who like to read memoirs about Paris
and Barcelona. I really enjoyed reading. Therefore I would like to give this
book a 5 star rating. Can I give more?!
From Moulin Rouge To Gaudi's City. It didn't let me down!
I was surprised by the author's eye for detail. The book is written very clear,
structured and easy to read.
This was not just a story about Paris and Barcelona. It even gave me
some new travel ideas, which I hope to complete as soon
as it is possible to travel again.
I recommend this book to all people who like to read memoirs about Paris
and Barcelona. I really enjoyed reading. Therefore I would like to give this
book a 5 star rating. Can I give more?!
September 11, 2018
Elizabeth has completed her treatment for cancer and decides to fulfill a long held dream to visit France. Travelling with her sister and meeting up with a dear friend, the trio explore Paris, southern France and Barcelona.
The author's "joie de vivre" leaps from each page, as she details their journey through Paris and beyond, the many tourist attractions, the food and especially the wine and champagne!
I particularly enjoyed her description of their visit to Monet's Garden and their bicycle ride through the French countryside.
She admits to feeling nervous when driving a hire car for their week in rural France, and I was rooting for her as she drove "Fifi" the car through narrow streets, steep hills and tiny gates...
The author's "joie de vivre" leaps from each page, as she details their journey through Paris and beyond, the many tourist attractions, the food and especially the wine and champagne!
I particularly enjoyed her description of their visit to Monet's Garden and their bicycle ride through the French countryside.
She admits to feeling nervous when driving a hire car for their week in rural France, and I was rooting for her as she drove "Fifi" the car through narrow streets, steep hills and tiny gates...
May 1, 2024
Elizabeth’s fascination in exploring Paris, the French countryside & then Barcelona is a thrill to read. You find yourself walking alongside her & her sister, (sometimes with Bron too), enjoying all the sights & sounds on offer. You sample the ‘tastes’ of their delicious meals at outdoor tables of many restaurants. Along with the wine, champagne or cava. The architecture, artworks & jewellery are beautifully described. Her excitement is infectious. And the tales of FIfi…! I’m looking forward to venturing further afield in the next book.
May 22, 2022
This is just the kind of story I enjoy – a travelogue filled with interesting tidbits about the destinations visited, allowing the reader to feel as if they are taking the trip themselves. The author has a gift for description, and a charming turn of phrase that made this travel memoir a delight to read.
November 15, 2017
This is a travel memoir packed with ideas and experiences from Elizabeth’s first European visit to Paris, the south of France and Barcelona.
Paris had always been her dream and for many years Elizabeth thought it might just remain that, however events in life often change the way of our future paths. For Elizabeth, recovering from breast cancer led her to look differently on her future and saying ‘yes’ to a trip to Europe with her sister Louise and friend Bron was just the beginning.
Elizabeth takes us with them and I have to admit to experiencing more of Paris through the pages of this book than I have in real life and I live in France, only 400km from Paris. Our intrepid adventurers dined atop the Eiffel Tower, experienced the cabaret of the Moulin Rouge, took city walking tours, boat tours, a chateaux and wine tour in the Loire, a cycling tour to Giverny and Monet’s Garden, and so much more. It was exhausting! They then moved on to the south of France by train, where they hired a car and took in a different set of French experiences with every day packed to bursting, as their days in Paris had been. I take my hat off to them, especially as shingles were giving Elizabeth a bit of a hard time and Bron too had health issues.
I soon discovered their secret though; the magic elixir that kept them going, and it comes in a flute shaped glass, goes pop with you open the bottle and never failed to make me smile as I read of yet another bar stop where it was Champagne time once more.
Once the ladies had finished with France (for this visit anyway), Barcelona was their third and final destination. Here the weather was better than in Paris and their itinerary no less packed out. The only difference being the bars here served Cava and tapas to keep their energy levels up as they took in the sights and the shops.
This is an entertaining and enjoyable travel memoir that not only shows bags of enthusiasm for her destinations, but also the benefits of the careful and considered planning that obviously went into making this trip so special. It left me full of admiration for all they had achieved. Elizabeth's passion for travel is contagious so do be warned, this book will leave you wanting to pack for your own adventure. I know this trip was just the beginning for Elizabeth and I’m certainly looking forward to reading more of her travels in the future.
Paris had always been her dream and for many years Elizabeth thought it might just remain that, however events in life often change the way of our future paths. For Elizabeth, recovering from breast cancer led her to look differently on her future and saying ‘yes’ to a trip to Europe with her sister Louise and friend Bron was just the beginning.
Elizabeth takes us with them and I have to admit to experiencing more of Paris through the pages of this book than I have in real life and I live in France, only 400km from Paris. Our intrepid adventurers dined atop the Eiffel Tower, experienced the cabaret of the Moulin Rouge, took city walking tours, boat tours, a chateaux and wine tour in the Loire, a cycling tour to Giverny and Monet’s Garden, and so much more. It was exhausting! They then moved on to the south of France by train, where they hired a car and took in a different set of French experiences with every day packed to bursting, as their days in Paris had been. I take my hat off to them, especially as shingles were giving Elizabeth a bit of a hard time and Bron too had health issues.
I soon discovered their secret though; the magic elixir that kept them going, and it comes in a flute shaped glass, goes pop with you open the bottle and never failed to make me smile as I read of yet another bar stop where it was Champagne time once more.
Once the ladies had finished with France (for this visit anyway), Barcelona was their third and final destination. Here the weather was better than in Paris and their itinerary no less packed out. The only difference being the bars here served Cava and tapas to keep their energy levels up as they took in the sights and the shops.
This is an entertaining and enjoyable travel memoir that not only shows bags of enthusiasm for her destinations, but also the benefits of the careful and considered planning that obviously went into making this trip so special. It left me full of admiration for all they had achieved. Elizabeth's passion for travel is contagious so do be warned, this book will leave you wanting to pack for your own adventure. I know this trip was just the beginning for Elizabeth and I’m certainly looking forward to reading more of her travels in the future.
June 14, 2020
A tour from the heart
A lovely read. After being introduced to French lessons at school as a teenager Elizabeth vowed she would one day visit France, Paris is a must for her.
This descriptive travel journal follows her along with her Sister and Best Friend. After being diagnosed with Breast Cancer at the age of 58 once cured Elizabeth is determined to fullfill her promise to herself. They set about organising this wonderful journey and 3 years later they achieve their aim.
This well-written and absorbing memoir recounts her first visit and her vivid description of the places visited and people encountered are really brought to life. Their Paris trip is hectic filled with barely time to draw breath. Interspersed with various shopping trips they visit Moulin Rouge Cabaret, Dine at the Eiffel Tower, day trips to the Loire and Monet’s house in Giverny and indulge in champagne at any given opportunity. Oh and don´t forget the Creme Brulee competition.
Their travels then take them in to France and after arriving it seems that Elizabeth will be the designated driver for their time there. Her fear of driving in a strange country sees them eventually managing to navigate Fifi, the hire car, seamlessly through the narrow streets of France. Their trip
here is almost as hectic as Paris.
The final leg of their European journey takes them by train to Barcelona. After a shaky and disconcerted start with a failed train journey they make it. This time it is Cava that flows and the dessert competition is continued with the Spanish equivalent – Crema Catalana.
The adventures begin again this time with Tapas tours, a visit to Mercado de La Boqueria (which is wonderful and I too wish we had one like it near to us here – I don´t think anything could rival this one though). I love the description of Las Ramblas, these are a wonderful experience with plenty to see and buy. It is almost eye popping whilst holding tightly onto your bag or wallet. Their wistfulness that the trip to Barcelona was not long enough with the promise to return.
This is a book to take your time over reading so that you can savour and bring to mind the wonderful places visited and described so beautifully and intrinsically.
Thank you Elizabeth I loved it.
A lovely read. After being introduced to French lessons at school as a teenager Elizabeth vowed she would one day visit France, Paris is a must for her.
This descriptive travel journal follows her along with her Sister and Best Friend. After being diagnosed with Breast Cancer at the age of 58 once cured Elizabeth is determined to fullfill her promise to herself. They set about organising this wonderful journey and 3 years later they achieve their aim.
This well-written and absorbing memoir recounts her first visit and her vivid description of the places visited and people encountered are really brought to life. Their Paris trip is hectic filled with barely time to draw breath. Interspersed with various shopping trips they visit Moulin Rouge Cabaret, Dine at the Eiffel Tower, day trips to the Loire and Monet’s house in Giverny and indulge in champagne at any given opportunity. Oh and don´t forget the Creme Brulee competition.
Their travels then take them in to France and after arriving it seems that Elizabeth will be the designated driver for their time there. Her fear of driving in a strange country sees them eventually managing to navigate Fifi, the hire car, seamlessly through the narrow streets of France. Their trip
here is almost as hectic as Paris.
The final leg of their European journey takes them by train to Barcelona. After a shaky and disconcerted start with a failed train journey they make it. This time it is Cava that flows and the dessert competition is continued with the Spanish equivalent – Crema Catalana.
The adventures begin again this time with Tapas tours, a visit to Mercado de La Boqueria (which is wonderful and I too wish we had one like it near to us here – I don´t think anything could rival this one though). I love the description of Las Ramblas, these are a wonderful experience with plenty to see and buy. It is almost eye popping whilst holding tightly onto your bag or wallet. Their wistfulness that the trip to Barcelona was not long enough with the promise to return.
This is a book to take your time over reading so that you can savour and bring to mind the wonderful places visited and described so beautifully and intrinsically.
Thank you Elizabeth I loved it.
October 22, 2022
A lovely excursion from Paris to Barcelona with the author, her sister and a friend led me to some philosophical daydreaming of my own. The author undertakes this journey as a long-awaited exhalation after her illness. And I believe that perhaps it was her experience of cancer that brings what might have been a sweet travel memoir into a deeper philosophical realm. For example: Bauer writes, after a thwarted effort to photograph birds in flight “It was not mine to take;” his taught me a lesson in letting go, releasing what is not mine to hold. Her glimpse of a business man fishing in Parish made me ponder the vagaries of the elusive work/life balance: “What does one do with a fish caught on the way to work?” The author’s revelation of the symbiotic relationship between cities and the pigeons who clean up after us (though we may curse them under our breath) is poetic. The personal often becomes profound within these pages.
I read this memoir through the lens of her crucible: a cancer that stripped away the banalities of typical tourism (sightseeing for the sake of having been) into the bare truths of truly seeing and fully embracing all that life has on offer. With fresh eyes, the author reveals what travel can teach us if we only allow it. But don’t get me wrong, the humor and grace and humility exemplified in these pages return the philosophical back to the personal. The relish and immediacy with which she depicts meals, shopping, foibles and frustrations will pull you into her present moment. You will at once feel you’ve been on this epic journey with her while you start planning your own trip. Enjoy!
I won a free copy of this book in a contest.
I read this memoir through the lens of her crucible: a cancer that stripped away the banalities of typical tourism (sightseeing for the sake of having been) into the bare truths of truly seeing and fully embracing all that life has on offer. With fresh eyes, the author reveals what travel can teach us if we only allow it. But don’t get me wrong, the humor and grace and humility exemplified in these pages return the philosophical back to the personal. The relish and immediacy with which she depicts meals, shopping, foibles and frustrations will pull you into her present moment. You will at once feel you’ve been on this epic journey with her while you start planning your own trip. Enjoy!
I won a free copy of this book in a contest.
January 16, 2019
This was a very fun read where I felt I was on the trip with the author, her sister and their friend. She writes in a very personal way, with just enough personal feelings, humor, and thoughts along with a fantastic amount of history and descriptions of the places they visited.
The author had wanted to visit France for a long time and so finally after having overcome a health issue, she decides that it is time to make the trip a reality. The author and her sister meet up with their friend in Paris, and the three of them have a wonderful time exploring the city. The descriptions and places she talks about make me want to go back there, and explore Paris and some of their choices once again.
From Paris they spend a week in rural south France, where they have a great time experiencing a totally different France from Paris, but still with great shopping and wonderful food and wine.
The last stop on there trip is Spain where they enjoy a wonderful time in Barcelona, taking in all that this city has to offer.
I loved a saying she had when unable to capture a good photograph of swallows in flight, “It was not mine to take.” I must remember this, as I love to take photos as well, and instead of feeling frustrated at missing a shot, I will have to remember that it was not mine to take.
I am looking forward to reading more of her travel stories as she has such a nice way of writing.
The author had wanted to visit France for a long time and so finally after having overcome a health issue, she decides that it is time to make the trip a reality. The author and her sister meet up with their friend in Paris, and the three of them have a wonderful time exploring the city. The descriptions and places she talks about make me want to go back there, and explore Paris and some of their choices once again.
From Paris they spend a week in rural south France, where they have a great time experiencing a totally different France from Paris, but still with great shopping and wonderful food and wine.
The last stop on there trip is Spain where they enjoy a wonderful time in Barcelona, taking in all that this city has to offer.
I loved a saying she had when unable to capture a good photograph of swallows in flight, “It was not mine to take.” I must remember this, as I love to take photos as well, and instead of feeling frustrated at missing a shot, I will have to remember that it was not mine to take.
I am looking forward to reading more of her travel stories as she has such a nice way of writing.
October 8, 2018
Reading E.J. Bauer’s gentle account of her trip from Paris to Barcelona, with prolonged stays in both beautiful cities and places in between, is akin to enjoying comfort food. Her narrative induces a cozy sense that all is well with the world: that there are places of worth to visit in the company of old friends; conversations to be had; sites to be seen; history to remember; languages to be spoken; past achievements to be celebrated; meals to be delighted in; wines to taste; champagne flutes to sip; music to relish; culture and beauty to venerate and novel experiences to be investigated.
It’s the author’s first visit to France and Spain though she fell in love with Paris on first listening to her stirring French teacher in Brisbane, Australia when she was a teenager.
The author’s delight in Paris, the Loire Valley, southern France and Catalonia is passionate and tender. I also found it contagious, building in me the desire to visit these regions again and savour everything once more through the innocent and admiring eyes of the first-timer.
But there’s no need to go to the expense or trouble – E.J. Bauer’s warm account takes your hand so that you accompany her every step of the way.
It’s the author’s first visit to France and Spain though she fell in love with Paris on first listening to her stirring French teacher in Brisbane, Australia when she was a teenager.
The author’s delight in Paris, the Loire Valley, southern France and Catalonia is passionate and tender. I also found it contagious, building in me the desire to visit these regions again and savour everything once more through the innocent and admiring eyes of the first-timer.
But there’s no need to go to the expense or trouble – E.J. Bauer’s warm account takes your hand so that you accompany her every step of the way.
June 20, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this delightful memoir where the reader travels with Elizabeth, Louise and Bron on the trip of a lifetime to Paris, rural France and Barcelona. I was with this girly trio all the way, experiencing their delight and the things that girls love to do - shopping and savouring coffee, food and drink. Being something of a nosey parker, I enjoyed reading what the girls ate and drank and bought, and I learn a travel secret: always be "in the moment" and treasure each moment (something I haven't always done on my travels, but this travelogue has inspired me to take time and just be in the moment for simple pleasures). The author is a cancer survivor and this memoir is therefore all the more poignant as she celebrates her recovery and seizes the opportunity to realise her travel dreams....though it's not all plain sailing as both the author and Bron navigate their particular health issues through the tour. It is a detailed memoir and for me has just the right mix of personal details and information about the places visited. Having visited both Paris and. Barcelona myself, I found the memoir doubly fascinating to read and compare with my own experiences. A truly delightful memoir.
December 12, 2021
"One should always have champagne after climbing small hills in France." I had a good chuckle at this. What a great sentence, and it picks up on the essence of the book so well. In fact champagne and humour are both recurring themes - always a good thing!
This is a great book to give a flavour of travel; its ups and downs but mainly joys, but there's also plenty of detail. So, perfect for novice and experienced travellers alike. For me, having spent quite some time in France, the familiar places brought back wonderful memories, and the time spent in Spain was retold in a way which certainly piqued my interest.
I was so impressed that the writer took to driving on the 'wrong' side of the road with such apparent ease. I enjoyed those details. And, as a fellow Antipodean, I did appreciate her referring to kiwifruit as just that - kiwifruit. Kiwis are birds. But I think that battle might have been lost in Europe.
And oh, another devotee of gift shops - travel has so much going for it!
If you want to read a memoir about travel, with rich detail about Paris in particular, I would recommend this book.
This is a great book to give a flavour of travel; its ups and downs but mainly joys, but there's also plenty of detail. So, perfect for novice and experienced travellers alike. For me, having spent quite some time in France, the familiar places brought back wonderful memories, and the time spent in Spain was retold in a way which certainly piqued my interest.
I was so impressed that the writer took to driving on the 'wrong' side of the road with such apparent ease. I enjoyed those details. And, as a fellow Antipodean, I did appreciate her referring to kiwifruit as just that - kiwifruit. Kiwis are birds. But I think that battle might have been lost in Europe.
And oh, another devotee of gift shops - travel has so much going for it!
If you want to read a memoir about travel, with rich detail about Paris in particular, I would recommend this book.
August 6, 2018
Inspiration and Education
The author's unflagging spirit of adventure while experiencing the discomfort of shingles and a tricky knee throughout her four week adventure made me wonder if I would have been so plucky and upbeat. ( Probably not.) I get a sense of her renewed zest for life and accomplishing personal goals after her battle with breast cancer and chemotherapy.
The camaraderie amongst these three adventurers is evident. I'm particularly touched by these bonds of sisterhood and friendship having lost first my sister and years later my best friend. Their sharing of food, the dessert competition, shopping forays and discovering their surroundings brought me right along with them as an armchair adventurer!
I became intrigued by the work of Gaudi. I'd never heard of him until I found this book, but have been researching him and find his life very interesting.
I look forward to more from EJ Bauer. Thanks to her, I've learned some new things, which is why I so love to read!
The author's unflagging spirit of adventure while experiencing the discomfort of shingles and a tricky knee throughout her four week adventure made me wonder if I would have been so plucky and upbeat. ( Probably not.) I get a sense of her renewed zest for life and accomplishing personal goals after her battle with breast cancer and chemotherapy.
The camaraderie amongst these three adventurers is evident. I'm particularly touched by these bonds of sisterhood and friendship having lost first my sister and years later my best friend. Their sharing of food, the dessert competition, shopping forays and discovering their surroundings brought me right along with them as an armchair adventurer!
I became intrigued by the work of Gaudi. I'd never heard of him until I found this book, but have been researching him and find his life very interesting.
I look forward to more from EJ Bauer. Thanks to her, I've learned some new things, which is why I so love to read!
September 19, 2021
I feel as if I have just returned from a wonderful holiday with old friends, such is Elizabeth's skillful writing that I could feel the excitement, joy and emotions of the trip as it unfolded as if I was right there with them. The descriptive writing style allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in the scene and savor every moment. This fun trio of Aussies would be a delight to travel with, especially all the stops for glasses of bubbly and delicious food! I have never been to Paris so thoroughly enjoyed exploring the city through Elizabeth's eyes. Travelling always takes some amount of planning, but Elizabeth had health complications to deal with on top of that, but did not let this hold her back. I loved that the writer traveled independently and I admired her bravery for driving in France. As Elizabeth was negotiating the narrow village streets of S.W. France and parking in tight spots, I must admit I felt quite tense for her. A 5 star read for me, escape from the ordinary and head off on holiday with Elizabeth, you won't regret it, oh and pack the bubbly!
July 28, 2020
Elizabeth, her sister and friend make the decision to travel across the world from Australia to experience and explore the many delights of France and Spain.
Throughout the book, the places visited are beautifully described with much attention to detail. I felt I was travelling alongside Elizabeth and her companions. I could visualise very clearly Monet's gardens as I have visited myself many years ago and her descriptions were spot on.
In spite of some medical problems (Shingles), Elizabeth writes about her adventures in a very uplifting positive way. Nothing was going to hold her back from enjoying this well planned life long dream, although some of their adventures did not quite go as planned.
I enjoyed the Barcelona section so much I have started researching my own trip to explore the wonders of the city! Thanks for that Elizabeth.
This is a great debut travel memoir, well deserved 5 stars and bound to make you want to visit the places mentioned.
Throughout the book, the places visited are beautifully described with much attention to detail. I felt I was travelling alongside Elizabeth and her companions. I could visualise very clearly Monet's gardens as I have visited myself many years ago and her descriptions were spot on.
In spite of some medical problems (Shingles), Elizabeth writes about her adventures in a very uplifting positive way. Nothing was going to hold her back from enjoying this well planned life long dream, although some of their adventures did not quite go as planned.
I enjoyed the Barcelona section so much I have started researching my own trip to explore the wonders of the city! Thanks for that Elizabeth.
This is a great debut travel memoir, well deserved 5 stars and bound to make you want to visit the places mentioned.
November 5, 2017
A must read for anyone putting off their travel dreams!
What a thoroughly enjoyable and well written memoir! Well worthy of 5*!
E J Bauer is to be commended for her courage and strength for facing breast cancer head on and reassessing her travel dreams.
The writer will have you wanting to book flight's while reading her wonderful descriptions of the culinary delights in France and Spain. I related to EJ's sister, Louise, still not eating the crust of her bread. My OH finds it disgraceful as well! When EJ rents the hire car and takes full responsibility of driving while they spend a week in Narbonne in the Languedoc region my full respect was given! Her description of not being able to back into a parking space had me smiling at my own lack of backing up skills. What a joy reading about three determined Australian women embarking on a fun travel journey!
What a thoroughly enjoyable and well written memoir! Well worthy of 5*!
E J Bauer is to be commended for her courage and strength for facing breast cancer head on and reassessing her travel dreams.
The writer will have you wanting to book flight's while reading her wonderful descriptions of the culinary delights in France and Spain. I related to EJ's sister, Louise, still not eating the crust of her bread. My OH finds it disgraceful as well! When EJ rents the hire car and takes full responsibility of driving while they spend a week in Narbonne in the Languedoc region my full respect was given! Her description of not being able to back into a parking space had me smiling at my own lack of backing up skills. What a joy reading about three determined Australian women embarking on a fun travel journey!
September 23, 2017
If I hadn't wanted to go to France and Spain before reading this book, I would now! What a great read - packed with information and humour. EJ Bauer richly describes food, architecture, landscape and history to take the reader on a highly enjoyable journey from Paris, through the South of France, to Barcelona, with plenty of epicurean delights making wonderful memories for the travellers along the way. Her quirky sense of humour and fearless ability to talk to strangers make for great reading and inject personality and humanity into this book. I can't recommend it highly enough and can assure you it will ignite a desire to fly north for the winter (if you live in Australia!) taking this book with you as a guide. Thank you, EJ Bauer.
March 5, 2018
While a schoolgirl, young Elizabeth promised herself to 'one day' visit Paris. Many years later, after being diagnosed with breast cancer, she decides it is time to make the dream trip happen. She researches and plans a back roads journey from Paris to the south of France and into Spain to Barcelona with her sister and a friend.
EJ Bauer's detailed travelogue took me back to the 70s-80s when I lived in Germany and headed south every chance I got to explore hidden gems off the beaten paths of France and Spain. My mouth watered at each mention of fabulous food treats like cheeses, tapas, crème brulees, and the 'need' for champagne and wine stops. And yes, I also loved a 'retail break' along the way.
I recommend this fun book and comfortable shoes!
EJ Bauer's detailed travelogue took me back to the 70s-80s when I lived in Germany and headed south every chance I got to explore hidden gems off the beaten paths of France and Spain. My mouth watered at each mention of fabulous food treats like cheeses, tapas, crème brulees, and the 'need' for champagne and wine stops. And yes, I also loved a 'retail break' along the way.
I recommend this fun book and comfortable shoes!
September 6, 2020
A wonderful travel companion to savour and enjoy.
From cancer treatment to travelling to France and Spain with two dear friends, this is a story of a woman that made her travel dreams come true. Elizabeth writes with an effortless style; it is like having a friend curl up on the sofa opposite you and tell you about their travels.
She writes poetically and yet simply, describing the little things that so many other people miss. She also loves to shop and grab souvenirs on her trips and describes the food they eat and the restaurants they visit with a wonderful level of detail. This is a charming book that makes you want to follow in the writer’s footsteps.
I was particularly envious of her trip to Monet’s gardens, which she describes beautifully.
A wonderful easy read.
From cancer treatment to travelling to France and Spain with two dear friends, this is a story of a woman that made her travel dreams come true. Elizabeth writes with an effortless style; it is like having a friend curl up on the sofa opposite you and tell you about their travels.
She writes poetically and yet simply, describing the little things that so many other people miss. She also loves to shop and grab souvenirs on her trips and describes the food they eat and the restaurants they visit with a wonderful level of detail. This is a charming book that makes you want to follow in the writer’s footsteps.
I was particularly envious of her trip to Monet’s gardens, which she describes beautifully.
A wonderful easy read.
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