I spent last weekend in Reims with two of my favorite people that I worked with in Dallas. We stayed in quaint Hotel Crystal and played the role of tourist in every way. I discovered that the Basilica of St. Remi (seen above) is my new favorite church, and I highly recommend it, even more than the cathedral. Dinner one night at Brasserie Flo was just top notch; food, atmosphere, and service left nothing to be desired. And a good lunch can be found at Cafe Lorraine, again good food and service. There is one particular brasserie that I will not name on here that I caution you against; if you are going to Reims and want that information just email me.
Reims is in the heart of champagne country, where grapes that go into champagne are made. I learned at the Mumm Champagne House tour that there are only 3 kinds of grapes that go into champagne: chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, and they are all grown in this particular region of France. In the end it was so nice to get out of the city for a couple of days, and I had plenty of opportunity to flex my French speaking muscles. Very nice weekend. All pictures below are of the basilica and its accompanying abbey.
And always here is the latest grocery list. You might notice that I am getting better at finding deals. (don't look at the 7E bottle of mixed spices)
