Vignette: First night in Marseille

Sitting on the kitchen counter, back against the open window frame, and the cool sea breeze carrying in layered sounds of cars, people, drums, and Arabic music in the distance. Feet swinging beneath the counter; bread and cheese in one hand, a glass in the other. The lighting is warm and the vibe comfortable as total strangers from around the world sit around and swap stories of travels through French villages, Spanish romances, Italian jails, and Irish politics. An interesting intersection is found in this little room, close yet removed from the hustle and bustle of the city center.