Vimy Ridge |
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Arras, in the north of France, is like another country after having been to Paris and in Provence. The influence is more from Belgium or Germany, and it is colder with more precipitation. I stayed there in a youth hostel because it is the closest hostel to Vimy Ridge.
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A short bus ride, then a bit of a hike takes you to Vimy Ridge, the Canadian war memorial. The silence is deafening. The landscape renders one speechless, in awe. When I was there, there was rain and cold and wind. I didn't dare complain. I have read about the conditions that soldiers had to endure, especially the mud. It was like a sanctuary, a cathedral. I recommend it for any student of life.
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The students who work as guides at the memorial were exceptional. Their knowledge and enthusiasm were an inspiration. I was even given a ride back to the town, with a recommendation of which beer to try.
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The two huge cobble-stoned squares were impressive. It rained most of the day, but in the evening the sun came out along with a lovely rainbow.
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The youth hostel in the smaller of the two squares.
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Published on Tuesday October 22th, 2002 by carole
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