Postcards to Rick Steves |
CALANQUES CRUISE
One of my favorite excursions in Marseille was a calanques cruise in the crisp, blue Mediterranean Sea. The calanques are fjord-like inlets made of limestone. These dramatic formations rise above the sea and are popular with locals and tourists, who can cruise or hike to them, often with opportunities for swimming. Cruises conveniently depart from the Old Port (right across the street from the hotel) for 1.5- or 3-hour cruises. While the sights were extraordinary, a lot of the excitement came from the breezy mistral wind, which made for quite the rocky cruise! Until we were far enough out at sea, guests were required to remain inside the boat, as the waves practically encapsulated the entire front of the ship.
OTHER TIPS
-Spend time in the Panier district. I felt very welcomed by the locals there. Their greetings felt sincere and not just a show for tourists.
-You may notice right away that a lot of Marseille feels more Arab than French, since many residents come from North Africa. Stop by Rue Longue des Capucins to visit the Arab markets and eateries.
-From the Old Port, you can take a boat to Chateau d'If, the inspiration for Alexandre Dumas' The Count of Monte Cristo.
-To save yourself the steep walk up to Notre Dame de la Garde, you can take the little Petit Train or city bus #60 to the top. The train is more open, but lines can be long, especially in the summer.
-Many would consider Marseille gritty. It certainly is a contrast to the previous towns on our tour, but that makes for a more authentic visit to France. Nonetheless, as everywhere, wear your money belt and keep your belongings close to your person.
WORLD CUP UPDATE: GERMANY WINS, July 13, 2014, the day I fly home. And where is my layover...? Frankfurt! ;)
-You may notice right away that a lot of Marseille feels more Arab than French, since many residents come from North Africa. Stop by Rue Longue des Capucins to visit the Arab markets and eateries.
-From the Old Port, you can take a boat to Chateau d'If, the inspiration for Alexandre Dumas' The Count of Monte Cristo.
-To save yourself the steep walk up to Notre Dame de la Garde, you can take the little Petit Train or city bus #60 to the top. The train is more open, but lines can be long, especially in the summer.
-Many would consider Marseille gritty. It certainly is a contrast to the previous towns on our tour, but that makes for a more authentic visit to France. Nonetheless, as everywhere, wear your money belt and keep your belongings close to your person.
WORLD CUP UPDATE: GERMANY WINS, July 13, 2014, the day I fly home. And where is my layover...? Frankfurt! ;)