A perfect day in Toulouse.

We have been so, so spoilt with the weather since arriving. In Rome we thought we'd need to go buy shorts and t-shirts. In Nice we felt odd walking around in shirt sleeves when everyone else was wearing their fur. Here in Toulouse the sky is clear, the mornings crisp but the middle of the day has been delightful. The evenings have required scarves and gloves but we'd feel rather annoyed having carried everything this far to not have to wear the winter outfits. We have an apartment in a typical Toulousian Street with shops and services all very accessible.

In through the green door and were at the back. 

Our first night we had the best dinner of the trip so far. Forgetting to take photos I only got my main which was a piece of steak (Charolais; they love naming the breeds) topped with a pan seared slice of foie gras (duck liver). It was impeccable. To start with we shared bruscetta and fried artichokes. 

Afternoon tea today was a restrained selection of pastries. All this food and I'm losing weight. It's the walking I guess; walking to the market to find more extraordinary items. 

Two chocolate eclairs. Raspberry (framboise) tart. Tarte au citron meringue (lemon meringue tart). Flan (custard tart). Cup of tea and they didn't last long with this lot. 

Today, Saturday was market day in our Street and what a selection of seafood, cheeses, flowers, meats, fruit and vegetables. There is such a variety and they provide so much to choose from in terms of various types. Not one pear but 4 types. Not one oyster by 7 varieties, not one Mandarin but 3 and on it goes. All picked this morning and so fresh it still has the dew on it. 

Clementines, Mandarins and lemons

Five varieties of lettuce

Have you ever seen pumpkin this orange before? And what about the pile of walnuts.