A quick turn off the Atlantic Ocean takes us for a swim on the Mediterranean Sea which is enclosed almost completely by land. The Sea’s given name in reality means “in the middle of the land” which makes perfect sense. France, like others in surrounding regions such as the Greeks and Egyptians, uses the Mediterranean to import and export. This is particularly important when dealing with foreign countries including the more recent way for economic income: travel or tourism.

 

 

History

The Mediterranean’s history continues today through its use for trade and a source for survival, fishing and seafood. However, various wars and colonization in its past has remained calm in present times. After World War II France had to make difficult decisions dealing with its overseas colonization. Algeria, for example, after the Franco-French civil war and Algerian War was given its independence.

 

Arts & Museums

An overview of past history used in modern times is seen at the Museum of the Olive. The museum exhibits the different ways to use olive oil, like for pharmaceutical uses, religion, diet, lighting, cosmetics and others. Tools and equipment are displayed while an explication on cultivating and harvesting olives is given. Further descriptions on the production of soap and olive oil in the city of Marseille and readings of Provencal poems written in dedication to the olive are held. The Renaissance Mediterranean is a movement of artists along with works of art that travel between Spain, France and Italy.

Other Museums:
*Africain, Oceanic and American-Indians Art/Musée d'Arts Africains, Océaniens et Amérindiens
* Jules Cantini Museum/Musée Cantini
* Château Borély
* Contemporary Art Museum/Musée d'Art Contemporain (MAC)
* Faïence ceramics Museum/Musée de la Faïence
* Fashion Museum of Marseille/Musée de la Mode de Marseille

 

Nightlife

Yacht Charters can be taken of the Mediterranean coast of France around the region and offer festive evenings aboard. The second biggest city in France is Marseille which sits right on the coast of the Mediterranean. Night life in the city varies from bars to clubs to theatre. The Cri du Port located in the 3rd arrondissement has live contemporary bands while the Nomad’café is simply a Mediterranean Café with class located in the same area. An evening of theatre can be delightful at the Parvis des Arts dedicated to different genres. On the other hand there are the Theatre Axel Toursky, emphasis on concerts, plays and operas, or the Theatre Carpe Diem, more for youth.

 

How to get there

It is best to fly into Marseille's international airport Marignan or take the train. Once in Marseille one has the option of heading southwest toward Spain, by car bus or train, to see towns such as Camargue and Montpellier or northeast toward Italy to get a feel of the French Riviera at towns like Nice.