15. Rouen – Budget-Friendly Attractions
Once upon a time, in the delightful town of Rouen, Safari, a dapper 34-year-old gentleman from Kenya, and the ever-joyful Leah, his 27-year-old Brazilian wife, decided to chase adventure without breaking the bank. This journey began with a gleeful giggle that echoed through their humble abode as they plotted their escapade to France. Known for their frugality and sense of fun, they packed their bags, which, of course, included a solid collection of travel snacks—because, let’s be honest, no budget travel story is complete without a few nibbles stashed away!
Visit the stunning Rouen Cathedral, the inspiration for Monet’s paintings.
Walk through Vieux Rouen, the medieval old town.
Explore Jardin des Plantes de Rouen, a peaceful botanical garden.
Their first stop? The magnificent Rouen Cathedral, an architectural marvel that reaches for the skies like a giraffe stretching its neck. As they approached, Safari exclaimed, “Leah, this is what you call a cathedral! Just look at those intricate statues and beautiful stained glass!” With the sunlight making the granite shimmer, Leah, ever the photographer, pulled out her trusty camera, snapping shots from every conceivable angle. Suddenly, Safari struck a pose as if he were part of one of Monet’s masterpieces, arms wide open, “Look, I’m a painting! Monet, eat your heart out!”
After soaking in the beauty of the cathedral, they meandered to Vieux Rouen, the medieval old town where cobblestone streets twist and turn like a playful kitten chasing its tail. It felt like stepping back in time, with timber-framed houses leaning in closer to whisper secrets of centuries gone by. Safari, in his mischievous way, declared, “Let’s play a game! Every time we see a house that looks like it came out of a fairy tale, we shout ‘abracadabra!’” Leah giggled as they went on a shout-filled stroll, tourists glancing over in confusion. With every corner, they spotted vibrant colors and charming cafes, feeling more and more encapsulated by the history around them.
Of course, if they were tourists on a budget, that meant it was lunch time, and what better way to relish the local cuisine than a Tarte Normande? At a quaint, tucked-away market, Safari found a lovely stall selling the luscious apple tart for a mere €3. “This could either be a steal or a disaster,” he joked, winking at Leah as they took a bite. Sweet, comforting, apples mingling with cinnamon. “Mmm, this tart is like a warm hug from grandma!” Leah chimed in, smiling as she savored each bite.
Next, they found themselves at a local market, drawn in by the savory scent of Camembert cheese sandwiches. For just €5, they piled their sandwiches high with melted cheese and fresh bread, devouring their finds like they were the last meal on earth. “Now, if budgeting means eating like kings,” Safari proclaimed with a mouthful of cheese, “then I shall be a royal!” Leah couldn’t stop giggling at his grandeur, nodding as she took another bite.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky with swirls of orange and pink, they headed to their budget stay at the Auberge de Jeunesse Rouen. The hostel was lively, filled with other wanderlust souls sharing stories. Their room was simple but comfortably snug, costing them only €20 each per night. Safari flopped down on his bed dramatically, pretending it was the plushest of suites. “Leah, forget the Ritz! We’ve got all we need right here!”
With a day filled with laughter, unforgettable sights, and scrumptious bites at a fraction of the price, Safari and Leah realized that splendid adventures didn’t need to come with a hefty price tag. They fell asleep to the lull of Rouen, dreaming of the next day’s escapades and, of course, the next slice of Tarte Normande. And so, with pockets only slightly lighter but hearts much fuller, they drifted into dreams of budget-friendly travels yet to come.