Corsica

I think Grand Turk has fallen to number 2 on my favorite islands list. Yesterday I discovered the beauty of Corsica. It used to be rumored that French sailors could always tell when they were approaching Corsica because of the wonderful aromas from all the flowers - a much different odor from the stench of Marseille. It’s remarkable how wonderful the island smells – almost like God took a large bottle of perfume and sprayed the island with a delicate layer of ‘eau du toilette’!

Apart from the fragrances of Corsica, the countryside is remarkably rugged. It was the closest to Colorado I’ve felt since my journey began. The mountains were still snow-capped and actually are an extension of the Alps. There were large jagged peaks with lush green vegetation. I took a tour to the Prunelli Gorges and Lake Tolla which had picturesque villages lining the coast. Apparently May is the best time to visit Corsica as the flowers are in bloom and the summer heat and congestion are waiting in the wings. I also saw goats on the rocky cliffs, cows crossing the road, and horses galloping in the pastures. A very idyllic site to behold! I can’t quite figure out why Napoleon was so eager to leave his birthplace and conquer the world – I guess that’s the difference between men seeking power and men seeking happiness. I would be more than content to call Corsica my home. The only problem….I need to learn how to speak French!