That last, absolutely chaotic, exhausting day, was followed by today: Beach Day! Soon after breakfast, we journeyed to the beach village of Cassis. Our driver, Carmine, took us along the scenic route, allowing us views of the altering vineyards along different heights—something somewhat reflective of Incan terrace farming.

As we arrived, we took a boat ride for about an hour. It was magical. We saw not only 20-year-old college students cliff-jumping, but these scenes out of JRR Tolkien. Suddenly, we may turn a corner into two converging mountains, causing one to feel like an ant in the grass. You look up and see years of formation and you look down and see this deep, clear water, including gorgeous fish. One would expect dolphins to jump out of the water and Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet nearby.

We then either went to lunch or to swim. I decided on a traditional Bouillabaisse—a 4-fish stew of the Provence region. Afterwards, I head towards the rocky beach of Cassis. I always find the rocks interesting. Nature just creates this perfect gradient of size by itself in a way no human could. Consequently, walking on the beach became a revelatory encounter, as I walked on a piece of art developed after millions of years. And then going in the water truly amplified it all. I forced myself to stay in despite my shivering, just to take in all its beauty.

The day ended with free time in Aix.

I consider myself well-traveled (for my age). However, I’ve never before been swimming in another country. It’s a completely new experience. Despite the uniqueness though, none of what I have seen is out of this world. The same science that created the Adirondacks of Lake George created the mountains and sea we saw today. Yet, although maintaining the same science—the same understanding of earth—each place has a strikingly different decor. It’s all the same; it’s only the decor that changes. That’s what’s so wonderful. I have seen nothing outside of this world, but I am still paralyzed.