Nimes, in the south of France, is well known for its Roman ruins and deservedly so. The arena is the best preserved in the world, in fact, horse shows and bull fights.

Also, the Musee' d'Histoire Naturelle, 13 Blvd Amiral Courbet. With an eye on what the tourists are most likely to want, the stress is on Roman artifacts and these are, indeed impressive. What is not so well known is that there is also a collection of "native" artifacts which are well worth seeing. There is at least one case each devoted to Zulu, Masai, Dahomey, Abyssinian and central African items and another devoted to the Maori. In their totality, these exhibits are fascinating for the colonial enthusiast. All exhibits include a extensive array of shields and weapons as well as the more domestic clothing, hunting and cooking apparatus, etc. I personally was most impressed by the multi-bladed throwing knives.

Sadly, too, picture taking is not allowed. As with all French museums, there is an admission charge.

Nimes itself is a pleasant city. I found the Tourist information office (6 rue Auguste) to be the most informative and friendliest in Southern France. For a hotel I would recommend the Majestic, 10 rue Pradier. This is only a two star establishment but, in my experience, these are friendlier and provide more personal service than the more touristy three and four star places and at less cost. In the off season, at least, my room was f.220 per night (about $44) with breakfast f.35 extra. A truly superb meal can be got at the Ophelie, 35 rue Fresque.

These is a statue of a crocodile, and it's good luck to rub it's nose.