Written by: Lisa
Paris: The City of Lights. Fashion capital of the world. It’s no wonder over 30 million tourists flock the city each year! And with its numerous French language schools, it also no wonder students, young and old alike, choose Paris as their destination to learn French in France.
But if the idea of scores of tourists doesn’t sound appealing to you, then look no further than a short plane ride south to the Mediterranean city of Montpellier. With a history dating back as far as the 11th century, and the Mediterranean Sea just a short tram ride away, there is no lack of interesting things to see and do. Of course it can’t go without mention that Montpellier has well over 300 days of sunshine a year!
The city’s main square, the Place de la Comédie, is the perfect place to relax at a café, soak up the sunshine and get a taste of daily life in France. If shopping is more you style, practice your French language skills with shop keepers in one of Europe’s largest pedestrian areas, filled with all types of shops from traditional wine and cheese shops to big name stores like Virgin Megastore.
You could spend days getting blissfully lost in the old town pedestrian area, but don’t forget to visit the beaches. Montpellier’s modern tram system will take you right from the centre of town to the beaches in just a few minutes. You can choose to find your own little spot on the beach, or spend a few extra euros to be pampered in one of the many beach clubs scattered along the shoreline.
Montpellier is often over looked as a vacation destination for tourists in France. But with its charming mix of history, culture, modern amenities and, of course, the beaches, Montpellier is the ideal place to take a French language holiday!