Third time's a charm

Well, we finally made it.

The first time we traveled to the Vimy Monument (a brilliant suggestion from Natalie) in 2005, they had just closed access to the monument for a major restoration program. (As an aside, the monument really needed the work. We watched a video at the interpretive centre that explained how the monument was literally falling apart.)

Still, we were amazed by this massive piece of art commemorating Canada's unknown soldiers and the battle of Vimy Ridge. So, given the opportunity to go back as a couple of hangers on to a high-school trip in 2007, we tried again. This time, fewer of the barriers were there, but we were still blocked from getting to the monument. It was only two weeks before it would be opened to the public as part of the its 90th anniversary celebration.

And finally now, on our third attempt, we made it. Yesterday, we took an early Eurostar train out of London to Lille and then Arras for a taxi to the Vimy monument. While train transportation is relatively cheap in Europe, our taxi doubled the price. Still it was all worth it. We were finally able to get on the monument... to touch it and experience it as the architect and sculptor (Allward) intended.

It seemed like everything aligned to work out as well: we had as much time as we wanted to tour the monument, trenches, park and tunnels; the weather was excellent providing great views; and, well, everything was accessible.

More Vimy musings and photos to come when we get home. But in the meantime: