CHERBOURG, FRANCE

A lovely port town, Cherbourg has a long history as a naval base, a concentration of power against British invasions. These days, there’s a British invasion of a different kind happening daily: Cherbourg is one of the main landing places for ferries coming from England and Ireland.

It was also famously one of the last stops for the Titanic on its fateful maiden voyage. The city played an important role in the liberation of France during World War II, with the Battle of Cherbourg taking place here soon after D-Day in 1944. During that it sustained much damage but now can claim pride as the first city to be liberated. Cherbourg is an active port and gateway to the many attractions in Normandy.

Not far from Cherbourg, visitors can immerse themselves in history, with small towns dating back to medieval times and beautiful chateaus.  The Normandy beaches and battle sites stand testament to the sacrifices made by Allied forces during the liberation of France, and the American Cemetery, with its over 9,000 marble crosses, is a moving monument to those who gave their lives. 

We did get to see Omaha Beach and the remains of the artificial port built there. It was one of the most extraordinary industrial and maritime achievements of the whole war and enabled Allied forces to land in France and begin the counter-invasion.

It was another cold, rainy day. We are told this is regular weather for Spring in Europe. No one can complain about one day of weather in Panama City , Fl. I look forward to it.