We had audio guides that led us around the abbey. This area was built for the monks as part of their cloistered life. The archway is so pretty and ornate.
Another view of the abbey. It's so breath-taking (figuratively and literally). There are practically a million steps leading up to the top. We definitely got plenty of exercise today!
After we left Mont St. Michel, we took a bus to St. Malo. We stored our luggage in a hotel and explored the city for a few hours before meeting with the homestay coordinator and our families at 6 p.m.! Carly and Lea are staying with families who live in St. Malo, so they left first. The rest of the girls are staying with families who live in Rennes, about 45 minutes away.
The girls were slightly nervous before meeting their families, but when the family showed up, everything was great. The French mother seemed so warm and friendly, and she immediately greeted the girls with kisses on the cheeks, and her sons did the same! Lea and Carly couldn't have been welcomed in a better way! Kissing on the cheeks is very French. Usually, the French kiss one cheek and then the other as their form of greeting friends. So, upon seeing this expression of friendship, we knew Carly and Lea are going to have a great time.
Off the girls go with their family! The French mother instructed her sons to carry the bags for the girls. How great! Carly and Lea had lugged those bags everywhere for the past two days, so I'm sure they appreciated the help. I can't wait to hear about all their experiences!
Laura, Shannon, Maya, and Carrie took the bus to Rennes with the rest of the group to meet the families there. I'm sure they are having a super time now! Our French adventures continue! You can see more pictures from today here.
Hope the family stays go well. What a great way to experiance another culture first hand.
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