During my pre-trip exploration into the hidden gems of Lyon, France, I came across one intriguing vlog about a hidden gem. Research showed me that le jardin des curiosités was presented to Lyon from Montreal in honor of the relationship the two cities have formed. I felt a strong pull to this site that symbolized commonality amidst distance, and had a feeling it was one of those places that you couldn't fully grasp unless experienced for yourself. That was certainly true!
On my 50th birthday I found my way from our river cruise ship, up a funicular and through a quiet neighborhood to a destination that was not quite clear in my mind. It simply felt important. I passed a local market that had the most glorious looking produce out front and made a mental note to stop by on my way back. The buildings were beautifully designed with detailed carvings in the walls, colorful doors and some very decorative door knockers. The few people that had been going about their business around me started to thin out as I continued on my path.
I was really trusting google maps as I found myself on my own, walking the final stretch of an unsuspecting parking lot without any sign of a special landmark ahead. As I reached the end of the road, I noticed some garden gates tucked beside a wall with some graffiti on it. That was the only hint of something more beyond the walls. Once I passed through the unassuming iron entry, everything I had previously understood about where I was fell away. I felt complete awe as I took in the vast rooftop view that peeked out between the greenery creating a gentle arch ahead of me.
As I slowly stepped forward, the tears of wonder started flowing from my eyes. Having a natural curiosity to experience something unique in a new place led me to a moment of complete speechlessness. 'This is what it means to be alive', I thought to myself. The appreciation for being in that exact place, at that significant moment in my life, overwhelmed me.
The pictures surrounding this article tell a story of one of the most touching personal moments I've had in my own life. This is what travel brings. New insights. Grounding moments. Open hearts. I want to bring these moments to others...share an expansion of understanding, amazement, and appreciation for life while we find ourselves in our own garden of curiosities, wherever that may be.
During my pre-trip exploration into the hidden gems of Lyon, France, I came across one intriguing vlog about a hidden gem. Research showed me that le jardin des curiosités was presented to Lyon from Montreal in honor of the relationship the two cities have formed. I felt a strong pull to this site that symbolized commonality amidst distance, and had a feeling it was one of those places that you couldn't fully grasp unless experienced for yourself. That was certainly true!
On my 50th birthday I found my way from our river cruise ship, up a funicular and through a quiet neighborhood to a destination that was not quite clear in my mind. It simply felt important. I passed a local market that had the most glorious looking produce out front and made a mental note to stop by on my way back. The buildings were beautifully designed with detailed carvings in the walls, colorful doors and some very decorative door knockers. The few people that had been going about their business around me started to thin out as I continued on my path.
I was really trusting google maps as I found myself on my own, walking the final stretch of an unsuspecting parking lot without any sign of a special landmark ahead. As I reached the end of the road, I noticed some garden gates tucked beside a wall with some graffiti on it. That was the only hint of something more beyond the walls. Once I passed through the unassuming iron entry, everything I had previously understood about where I was fell away. I felt complete awe as I took in the vast rooftop view that peeked out between the greenery creating a gentle arch ahead of me.
As I slowly stepped forward, the tears of wonder started flowing from my eyes. Having a natural curiosity to experience something unique in a new place led me to a moment of complete speechlessness. 'This is what it means to be alive', I thought to myself. The appreciation for being in that exact place, at that significant moment in my life, overwhelmed me.
The pictures surrounding this article tell a story of one of the most touching personal moments I've had in my own life. This is what travel brings. New insights. Grounding moments. Open hearts. I want to bring these moments to others...share an expansion of understanding, amazement, and appreciation for life while we find ourselves in our own garden of curiosities, wherever that may be.
Connecting with Yes! You Can Travel
An Opportunity to Learn More & Support Yes! You Can Travel
Please follow our posts, and if you feel so inclined, give them a like.
Available to respond 7 days a week!
7:30am-4:30pm Hawai’i Time
10:30am-7:30pm Pacific
11:30am-8:30pm Mountain
12:30p-9:30p Central
1:30p-10:30p Eastern
Karyn@yesyoucanconcierge.com
© 2026. All rights reserved.
