Marseille is in the spotlight this year; the historic seaport on France’s Mediterranean coast was chosen European Capital of Culture for 2013. A dazzling array of displays, performances, and exhibitions is underway and, happily for visitors who can’t get there this year, much of it will spill into the future. The city, with government and EU …
Soaps made in traditional fashion and within the city limits of Marseille, France, are the only ones allowed by French law to use the coveted name: Savon de Marseille. What makes this simple, mild soap so special? Why is it favored in exclusive boutiques and salons in the U.S. and Europe? Recently I went in search …
Bouillabaisse is serious business in southern France, especially in the seaside town of Marseille . The delectable fish soup originated here, and every chef and fisherman claims to have the best recipe. The art of cooking bouillabaisse began on the Mediterranean coast centuries ago, probably by sailors thriftily turning unsold fish into a spicy stew. It …
When in Marseille, you can’t miss her: Notre Dame de La Garde. Whether you are emerging from St. Charles train station, heading toward the Pharo beaches, or taking an evening stroll around the harbor, she is there. Notre-Dame de La Garde, the Roman-Byzantine Basilica built in 1854, watches incessantly over the city and its inhabitants. Located on the city’s …
Check-out our picks for where to stay when in Marseille, France. Marseille is a big city (the second largest in France) with a big personality, so we recommend staying near the action-filled city center (Vieux-Port.) Marseille’s Vieux-Port derives from its historic roots as a fishing village to what is now the largest commercial port on the Mediterrean. …
Be prepared to travel back in time as you visit these top five historic sites in Marseille, France. An established seaport, Marseille boasts a unique maritime history, dating back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. The city is committed to remembering and preserving its history through a variety of historic sites and museums. Le …
France’s Southern Alps Snow Train Touristic trains are a great way to discover non-mainstream France. During the ski season, they take you to relatively lesser-known ski destinations—which means shorter lines at the ski lift. Every week-end from mid-January to mid-March the Train des Neiges, Alpes-Sud proposes to take skiers to 24 different resorts. The train …
Here are some popular Hors d’oeuvres in France Crudités are a common and tasty French appetizer. This simple dish consists of raw vegetables (typically carrots, radishes, and celery) that are soaked in a vinaigrette dressing overnight and served just as they are the next day. Sometimes hard-boiled eggs and black olives are added to …
When in Provence, checking out the many street markets is a must. While in France we build our sightseeing around the markets. We get to the town early, visit the market and spend the rest of the day visiting the sights. The vendors at these markets are friendly and most will speak at least a …