blog, Places

Top 10 Must-See Places in Marseille

It’s a wonderful experience while on holiday in France, when you visit streets, neighborhoods, or buildings that tell an intricate story. For example, when places were developed or who might have lived there that made it the place that it is today in history. Let’s go on a historical journey through the side alleys and cobbled paths of Marseille!

La Canebiére

Built in 1666, this is a kilometer long high street which runs along the Old Port area of Marseille. Its name refers to the Latin word Cannabis as the city used to be one of the biggest hemp traders up until the early years of the 20th century. It was once a bustling street with high-end cafes, hotels, and boutiques. The street lost its elegance after the end of the French colonial empire but has been magnificently restored since then.


Le Panier

Considered as the oldest part of Marseille, this charming neighborhood is literally what Hollywood portrays French cities to look like. Narrow alleyways dotted with little cafes, restaurants, and shops. The buildings are tall and soft-hued. Laundry spills from the dry lines suspended in the air from houses all over the neighborhood. It’s definitely a place to check out if you’re up for a lazy and blissful stroll through the area that was initially founded by the Greeks, you’re in for a treat!


La Vieille Charité

In the middle of the Le Panier neighborhood lies the La Vieille Charité, a charity house. Designed in 1640 by a local architect that lived in Le Panier. The laborious construction of the design only began in 1671 and after many years was only finished in 1749. The design was made up with the focus being on looking after the poor people of Le Panier.


Notre-Dame de la Garde

A Catholic church in Marseille with its final year of completion in 1864. As the chapel underwent changes over an extensive period of time, today it has a tall statue of the Virgin Mary on top of the bell tower. Perched on the highest hill in Marseille, it is said the statue had been erected to protect the people of the city. The church was built with a strong Roman architectural style. This is evident in the pillars and arches of the church. Rich in history, definitely a site to see and appreciate.


Fort Saint-Jean

This was a military fort based at the entrance of the Old Port and built in 1660. Today it is a museum accompanied by two bridges. One of the bridges leads to the Mucem which is a modernized museum built to commemorate European and Mediterranean cultures.


It’s important for people to visit worldwide historical landmarks and monuments as it contributes to the formation of the cultural identity of different countries as we know them today. Begin the never-ending venture of the top 5 must-see places of Marseille, the oldest city in France.




blog, Budget-friendly

The Most Budget-Friendly Mode of Transport in France

When you’re planning your trip to France, you’re more than likely flying over if you’re coming from another country like the United States or South Africa.

As to how to get around France itself to different destinations that tickle your fancy, it’s not as difficult as it sounds. Due to the exceptional public transport systems in Europe, most train travelers will tell you that the trains are efficient in time-keeping and have reliable services. Of course you can also go for a luxury car rental from a place like this but that would not be budget-friendly, of course!

Trains provide travelers with comfort and reduce traveling time. This means you not only get to destinations faster but you are guaranteed to rail ride in comfort. Let’s take a closer look at how reliable and budget-friendly traveling by train can be:

The Interrail France Pass

There are different types of trains used by Interrail such as the high-speed or scenic trains. Each type accommodates you according to your travel plans or itinerary. By making use of the Interrail France Pass, you have access to destinations located all over the country. This pass also has Youth discounts for people between the ages of 12 and 27.

Senior discounts are applicable to the elderly travelers over the age of 60. Prices vary according to whether you select First or Second class seating as well as the duration of each trip. Family traveling with children has just been made so much easier for everyone! And even if you want to drive through Rome with a Lamborghini, you can do so as well!

The Eurail France Pass

The Eurail train company also has different types of trains used to get around anywhere you need to be. Your destination options can go from one side of France right to the opposite end and still get a ticket that guarantees unlimited trains at a reasonable price. You have the option of either First or Second class seating but this will change the price of your train ticket.

Children under the age of 12 always get to travel for free so family train traveling is still the most budget-friendly mode of transport in France!…

blog, Holiday

Adventurous Activities to do on Holiday in France

If you want to experience a jam-packed holiday in France doing everything you possibly can in a short space of time, we have some news for you!

Transport services in and around Marseille, France, may seem complicated at first glance but there are ways in which to get around that. Literally. Public transport services in this city consist of buses, trains, bicycles, and more. This shouldn’t stop you from sightseeing, touring art museums, or, even better, thrilling outdoor adventures.

Touring the City

Get an All-Inclusive Marseille Pass

Believe it or not, you can get your hands on an all-inclusive pass in Marseille that can last up to three days. It gives you access to free public transport as you venture freely between different museums and monuments. From the date of ticket purchase, the ticket is valid for up to six months. This lets you plan accordingly with dates and stipulated times of these establishments and attractions. If you’re keen to explore the ins and outs of Marseille, check online for your touring booking options.

Take a Bike Tour of Marseille

This is a fantastic idea for families, friends and even groups on team-building excursions. The idea behind this concept is to encourage city exploration with a tour guide on an electric bike. Bookings options can vary according to the duration and distance of the trip you wish to embark on as well as the number of people per trip. If you would like to book your bike trip throughout Marseille, you will be guaranteed adventure and views of a beautiful French city!


Breathtaking Dive Spots

Phare du Planier in Marseille

This lighthouse off the coast of Côte Bleu is home to various wrecks which include planes, ships, and the wreck of an Algerian tanker in 1970.


Junkers 88 in Marseille

The name refers to the German bomber plane used in the World War II. It was discovered in 1989 and is located nearby the island fort of Château d’If. Only certified divers are able to visit this historical spot. Hurry and get certified!


Other Water Sports Activities


Remember, we’re all about focusing on areas in France that are close to the Océan Atlantique. So, let’s introduce you to the Dordogne River which travels west towards the estuary along the Atlantic coast called Gironde. The river is calm which is perfect for a serene kayak trip as you look around at the beautiful surroundings. There are also hiking trails if you’re more of a walker than a paddler.



You may want to sign up with a travel company if you’re unsure of the best places or types of fish that can be found. However, there is a French lake called Etang de Beynac which is known for its abundance of carp fish. This type of fish is popular within the French communities. Get booking today if you’re in need of a fishing holiday!…

blog, Holidays

The Top 6 French Holiday Experiences

Whether it’s your whole family or just you and your lover, there are options available to consider if you want the ultimate French experience in Marseille. Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are a number of cheap sightseeing landmarks, restaurants, and local markets.

Below, you will find a brief breakdown of the little places you can visit that are easy on the euros hidden in your back pocket.


Palais Longchamp

This is an incredible historical monument built in 1839 and opened to the public in 1869. It was built in celebration of the arrival of the water supply from Durance to Marseille after the rapid spread of the cholera outbreak in 1835. Today, the monument has a Museum of Fine Arts, Natural History Museum, and a park. The beautifully landscaped park is entrance-free. The museums are free to explore on the first Sunday of every month.


Château d’If

Built in 1524 as a prison, this island fort has become a worldwide historical sensation thanks to the fictitious book, The Count of Monte Cristo, written by Alexander Dumas. The location in the book written by Alexander Dumas is based on the Chateau d’If itself following the path of revenge taken by Edmond Dantès, a wrongly accused Count. Today, the fort has a permanent exhibit dedicated to Alexander Dumas and the story he wrote.


Plages du Prado

One of the many beaches in Marseille, this one is commonly referred to as ‘David’. It is a good place to go to with your family in tow as it has playgrounds for the little ones. It is easy to get to using the bus routes that pass through. It’s full of convenience as it has ablution facilities, showers, restaurants, and bars nearby too.


Restaurants and Local Markets

Chez Fonfon

This restaurant has been around for decades. Chez Fonfon specializes in seafood dishes like freshly grilled sole with an accompaniment of choice. Yet, its reputation is built upon their famous traditional fish specialty – Bouillabaisse! Served in various ways, the restaurant has perfected their recipe over the years. Call in to book the ultimate Marseilles food experience.

Les Coquillages des Halles de la Major

This is a huge food hall that caters to all types of food lovers. Whether you’re into gourmet ice creams, vintage wines, cheese, or fine cuts of meat from the butcher, it is ALL there for you to pick and choose from every day! Visit the beautiful food market today!


Le Marché de Noailles

This vibrant market is just meters away from the Old Port of Marseille which means it’s easy to get to. It runs daily with most stalls being run by the Arab community. The stalls consist of anything from fresh produce, spices, Mediterranean meats like chorizo, all types of bread, prayer mats, and so much more than you could imagine!

The world of French experiences and tastes awaits you!…

blog, Ocean

Exploring the Depths of the Océan Atlantique

As our science classes in the early phases of school taught us, the earth is made up of 70% water, 95% of which is ocean water. This brings us to the subject of the entire ocean as we know it today. The ocean is divided up into five oceans called the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic, and Southern oceans.


With the Pacific ocean being the largest and the Arctic ocean the smallest, it is no wonder the second largest ocean, the Océan Atlantique, has been divided and now referred to as the North Atlantic and the South Atlantic. The divide is separated by the equator. The five oceans stretch over the seven continents which are North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Antarctica.

The Where and What of the Océan Atlantique

The Greek meaning of ‘Atlantic’ is ‘Sea of Atlas’ which is a direct relation to Greek mythology. The Océan Atlantique was the first ocean crossed over by ship in the middle of the 1850s. The North and South Atlantic are located between America and Afro-Eurasia and directly affect European weather conditions.


A part of the Atlantic ocean which separates northern France and southern England is called the English Channel. Today, it has become a busy seafaring lane. An underwater tunnel located underneath the English Channel was designed in 1988 but the project was only completed in 1994. This tunnel is now a working rail system linking the UK to northern France via the English Channel. It has become a huge success as Eurostar trains and freight trains frequent the tunnel on a daily basis.


The Hidden Gems of Océan Atlantique

The Atlantic does have a series of little islands scattered over both the South and North Atlantic oceans. Below, we provide insight into three relatively unknown yet wonderful islands that are perfect for holidaymakers.


This island is home to the most expensive crop of potatoes in the world. The high cost of such is due to this type of potato being nearly extinct. The tiny island is perfect for any couple wanting to get a little romance thrown into the holiday mix. Picture relaxing bicycle rides down one of the main cobbled paths called le Gois. There are only certain times you can cross over the le Gois as it floods twice a day.


Ile de Yeu

Based off the coast of western France, Ile de Yeu is famously known for tuna and lobster fishing. Tourists make their way to the island by ferry or airplane. You will come to find that this island is full of stone monuments and relics dating as far back as the 9th century.



Located on the Atlantic coast of France in the Bay of Biscay, this island is perfect for beachgoers and those who love camping. This little gem is famously known for the daily production of fresh oysters.

Now that you know a little more about the Océan Atlantique, book a holiday and get exploring!…

blog, History

The Birth of the Oldest City in France

Paris is the largest city in France and it is the most talked about French city worldwide as most consider it to be the city of love. However, a little gem that people don’t actually know as much as they should know about is Marseille. It is the second largest French city. Today, it has one of the biggest ports predominantly focused on shipping, freight, and economic trade.


Marseille is positioned on the southern coast of France and known for its Mediterranean climate. The winters are muggy and summertime is windy and dusty. The cooler months starting in November and ending in March, January being the coldest. As well as the warmer months starting in May and ending in September, the hottest being in July.

In the Beginning

Marseille was discovered by the Greeks in 600 BC. A lot transpired through the centuries, however, if we take a look at the 18th century, this is where a big change happened. 1720 was the year that saw the Great Plague of Marseille.


This was an outbreak of a deadly disease resulting in people dying from high fever and delirium. This plague affected the population of Marseille greatly, however, by the middle of the 18th century, the population had steadily stabilized again.


The French anthem, La Marseillaise, was written in 1792 by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle. It was declared as the country’s national anthem in 1795. The anthem is symbolic of the fight for freedom and the unity of the people against dictatorship.


Marseille as it Stands Today

Fast forwarding a few centuries to today, we can see how Marseille has developed so significantly over the years. Today, it has one of the best transportation infrastructures with public road transport facilities, airports, and shipping docks.

It has also become the most frequented city in France thanks to the overflow of beautiful beaches, art deco architecture, rich history, and diverse culture. Culturally speaking, there are five art galleries, 24 historical museums, 42 different theatres, and a few opera houses. The oldest and biggest opera house in France is the Opéra Municipal de Marseille which opened in 1924.


A Nation of Diversity

The population of Marseille is large with a range of different nationalities. The vast scope falls over numerous cultures such as the Turks, Chinese, Vietnamese, Maghrebis, and so many others. From a religious perspective, various cultures have different beliefs, however, the most followed religion in Marseille itself is Roman Catholic.


Famous Food in Marseille

The advantage of Marseille being based on the southern coast of France means that the fish market there is constantly thriving. Daily fish catching is the norm. The city is well known for its most famous dish called Bouillabaisse.


This dish is a simple yet delicious fish soup made up of at least three different types of fish with a variety of vegetables. Bouillabaisse is also ideally a shared meal between large groups of people.

Marseille, an idyllic city of fascination and charm.…