The Colors of the Marche, the Warmth of the Heart.

After an unexpected turn of events in Milan, Italy, I hurried off to France. My destination was Nice on the southern coast. Written as 'nice' and pronounced 'neese,' it feels as though a breeze of relief is blowing into my chest.
I had visited after hearing that there was a budget hostel where backpackers could stay for 10€ a night during the off-season, but in reality, it was a standard 50€. Travel information really isn't reliable.

After organizing my luggage at the hostel, I strolled through the city. As expected of a resort town, the coastline seen from the observation deck is breathtakingly beautiful. The blue sea sparkles, stretching on and on toward the distant horizon.
But being alone, I felt lonely, and I was worried about my belongings, so I didn't go into the water. Still, in my heart, the sound of a shutter clicked quietly at the beautiful scenery.

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The next morning, I headed to the market that is said to be held every day.
On both sides of the road, there were colorful flowers, glossy fruits, crisp vegetables, fresh fish, various types of cheese, and ham. Everything imaginable, centered around food, was lined up in a row. It felt like a stylish version of the Tsukiji Market. Unlike the chaotic markets of Asia, the products were all arranged in an orderly fashion and beautifully displayed. The stroll itself felt like a lighthearted melody.

There were also stalls selling snacks that could be eaten on the spot. I took a bite of a freshly baked crepe. The fluffy dough and sweet aroma filled my mouth, my heart relaxed, and a smile spilled out.

With the crepe in one hand, I happened to look down and saw a cat rubbing against my legs.
Its pure white fur suited the blue and white scenery of this city perfectly. The way it looked up at the crepe with a small 'meow' was so adorable that I shared a little bit with it. Watching it stick out its tongue to eat, the heavy feelings I had in Milan seemed to melt away into the light.

This market is more than just a marketplace.
It is a colorful place that lets you feel the breath of the city of Nice on your skin. And the encounter with a small life I met during my travels lit a warm light in my heart.

—Ah, once again, a soliloquy in a strange foreign land.