On our way to the ferry at Calais we stopped for lunch at the same roadhouse (with 3 course menu) where we had our first official french meal.
It was nice to feel that our french had progressed to at least the level of 'restaurant'. After traveling through Europe the prices seemed much more reasonable than when we first arrived too; Switzerland and Sweden make everything else look cheap.
Sadly, it was made very clear to us that our time was up on the continent by a couple of French customs officials at the ferry border crossing.
When we entered France by ferry/car we were not given a passport stamp. Being the holiday hoarders that we are we were a little upset by this.
In our 'restaurant' french we asked the frenchie customs offcials for a stamp. They closed their window, had a chat behind mirrored glass, and then barked at us 'you have 3 months, no more!'. They thought we wanted another visa, we just wanted a petit souvenir.
No stamp, but the British border guard 10 metres ahead grilled us on our travel plans through Europe including exact dates. We did not need another British stamp, but he gave us one for 6 months.
Spent our first day back across the ditch trying to get tomtom to work. Apparently all the wine and cheese was not good for her either. Dinner at Jamie's Italian in Brighton made the stress all seem worth it.
Only 4 weeks to go now, starting to feel like we are returning home tomorrow.
Rationing the polenta chips @Jamie's/ Brighton Pier
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