Into the Mind of Van Gogh

Our adventures in Arles were mostly focused on one man: Van Gogh (or as the French call him, "Van Gog"). The only thing we didn't see was his severed ear...

In 1888, he moved to Arles where he stayed for about a year, painted many of his most famous works, and entered a hospital there. In 1889, he was transfered to the location pictured below, the St Paul Monastery and Asylum in St Remy (about 45 min from Arles) which is still functioning today. They section off a specific portion for Van Gogh enthusiasts such as ourselves.

We had a delightful time during our 3 days in Arles, which is a very charming and easily walkable city, though we had trouble finding some good food, besides our delectible lunch at the amazing market and our favorite ice cream place, Soleileis, recommended by our pal Rick of course. Our hotel room was even quite spacious with enough beds for a family of 5 and a million-dollar view overlooking the red-orange rooftops of the old city (refer to my facebook album for visuals). We also finally saw some lavender as well as this beautiful field of red poppies, both of which are ubiquitous in Provence. Also ubiquitous: les moustiques, aka mosquitos! If in Provence in the summer, don't forget some spray!