Canal du Midi - Day 3

This morning we are off to explore ancient Carcassonne, although the modern part today.

First stop was the historic Marché Central.

And more proof that spouses tend to look alike over time. 

Outside and across the canal to explore more.

And then the excitement of the day as a gust of wind picked up and blew Mrs. SFO's favourite Loro Piana hat over into the canal. Her shreik was all it took to know that unless I rescued it she would be miserable the rest of the trip. Amazingly the wind and current took it towards a boat which happened to have a ladder on the stern. To the pleas of "Get it before it sinks", I saved the day.

Meanwhile, back to our regular scheduled programming. 

The one remaining excavated section of the an old roman road, the Via Domitia. Wow, that would be a little uncomfortable.

Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur.

And back to the marché where the local anti-establishment crowd is protesting well...just about everything.  

Meanwhile back inside the marché...

And a popular resto, where the owner shouts orders to the butcher across the aisle, who then tosses the meat back over the crowd. Lots of fun although something that would no doubt be banned by any number of over-reaching federal agencies back home.

Next up and a couple minute walk way, our only outside meal of the week.

Great local wine.

But the food was a big meh... looked much better than it tasted.

Meanwhile back home, a relaxing afternoon cruising the Canal du Midi.

And the first of many locks today and the rest of the week. Most of these locks were built in the 17th and 18th century. 

Unfortunately, this boat was booked this week... so we're stuck on the Alouette. 

Getting ready for dinner.

Tonight's menu. Yay, steak frites.

As usual, another sensational meal.

More wine and a great end to the evening.