Menton: The Scent of Lemons, the Gentleness of the Mediterranean, and a Journey Through Colors and History

Menton, a small town located on the border of France and Italy, nestled in the embrace of the Mediterranean, is characterized by its sunshine, sea breeze, and lemons. My journey to Menton was not just a tour of the scenery, but also a dialogue with history, culture, nature, and my own soul. The moment I arrived in Menton, I was struck by its bright colors. The yellow houses, pink walls, blue sea, and green mountains were all so vivid, as if I were in an Impressionist painting. The air was filled with the faint scent of lemons, fresh and sweet, making me feel relaxed and happy. I strolled through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, feeling the breath of history. The ancient buildings, exquisite carvings, and those windows and balconies full of stories all told of Menton's long history and culture. My first stop was the Musée du Carnaval de Menton. The museum displayed many historical materials and exhibits about Menton's Lemon Festival, giving me a deeper understanding of this unique event. The grand parade of the Lemon Festival and the colorful lemon floats made me feel the enthusiasm and vitality of the people of Menton. Walking through the old town, lemons were everywhere. Lemon trees thrived in the sunlight, with golden lemons hanging from the branches, exuding a tempting fragrance. Lemons are not only a symbol of Menton but also an indispensable part of the local people's lives. Lemon products, such as lemon liqueur, lemon jam, and lemon candies, were abundant and mouth-watering. In a small shop in the old town, I bought a bottle of locally produced lemon liqueur and some lemon-flavored candies. These souvenirs were not only mementos of the trip but also my way of remembering Menton. Leaving the old town, I walked along the coastline, admiring the Mediterranean's sparkling waves. The sea breeze gently blew, and the warm sunshine made me feel extremely comfortable and at ease. By the sea, I saw many people sunbathing, swimming, or just quietly enjoying the sea view. By the sea, I also visited Menton's Jardin botanique exotique. The garden was filled with various tropical plants, blooming in a riot of colors. Here, I felt the wonders of nature and the harmony between humans and nature. In the garden, I also saw some peculiar plants, such as giant cacti and various orchids. These plants made me appreciate the marvels and diversity of nature. In the evening, I climbed the cliffs of Menton to watch the sunset. The setting sun dyed the sky golden-red, and the sea shimmered with light, creating a breathtaking view. This scene made me feel the wonders of nature and the fragility and beauty of life. During my days in Menton, I also visited the Collégiale Saint-Michel and the Musée Jean Cocteau. These museums gave me a deeper understanding of Menton's history and culture. The trip to Menton made me feel the unique charm of this small town and its rich cultural and natural resources. It is not only a beautiful tourist destination but also a place full of vitality and life. Here are some little episodes from the journey that added more fun and feelings to the trip: Interacting with locals: I had conversations with some locals who were kind, friendly, and hospitable, introducing me to the customs and traditions of Menton. Unexpected discoveries: In a small alley in the old town, I found a hidden café filled with the rich aroma of coffee and a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Resting by the sea: On a bench by the sea, I quietly admired the sea view, feeling the sea breeze and the warmth of the sunshine. The journey to Menton was not just an ordinary sightseeing tour but a spiritual cleansing. It gave me a deeper understanding of history, culture, and nature, and new insights into life. It made me realize that the beauty of life lies not only in grand landscapes but also in subtle feelings and the warmth between people. Goodbye, beautiful Menton, goodbye, gentle Mediterranean. I will always remember this unforgettable journey and the emotions and reflections it brought me.