France Intensive

Dynamic Barcelona is all about architecture, from the magnificent medieval buildings of the Gothic Quarter to the Modernist movement typified by the work of Antoni Gaudi. Though his materials were stone and metal, his forms were organic, awash in curves, swirls, and colors. His masterpiece is the amazing Church of the Sagrada Familia, colossal and as yet unfinished, though construction began in 1882. A contemporary contribution to the scene is Ricardo Bofill’s post modernist National Theater of Catalonia, an imaginative combination of classical and modern design, with a greenhouse-like lobby.

When you travel to Port-Vendres, be prepared for your imagination to kick into over-drive. Charming red roofs and stone buildings will invite romantic notions about how life once was in this important commercial port.

As the key to many ancient routes, Port-Vendres has been welcoming travellers for hundreds of years. The tradition goes back to when the Romans named it Portus Veneris after Venus, the goddess of love, and her temple offered good fortune to mariners.

France’s largest and most important fishing port on the Mediterranean, Sete also attracts pleasure craft, and some of the country’s America’s Cup entrants. The low town is criss-crossed by scenic canals and bridges, and you can observe the activity of the fishing fleet as it ties up in the center of town. Clams, mussels, and oysters are farmed, and it is hardly possible to find fresher fruits of the sea, a treat much enjoyed by visitors. Excursions can be made from Sete to Carcassonne, a perfectly preserved medieval city. With a double row of ramparts and 52 towers, it is everything you expect from a fairy tale castle.

Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a crossroads of immigration and trade since its founding by the Greeks circa 600 B.C. At its heart is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay. Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is a Romanesque-Byzantine church. Modern landmarks include Le Corbusier’s influential Cité Radieuse complex and Zaha Hadid’s CMA CGM Tower.

Saint-Tropez conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches, tanned bodies, and jet setters enjoying martinis on the decks of luxury yachts. Indeed it is a glamorous playground for the wealthy, but anyone can spend an afternoon at a sidewalk café, watching the spectacle unfold. The south of France played a role in the history of modern painting, its clear light inspiring artists, so that even today many live and work here. For mesmerizing views, head up to the 16th century Citadel. Or stroll the old town, overflowing with restaurants, trendy boutiques, and galleries.

Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is imbued with the joie de vivre that epitomizes this fabled coastline. Perhaps it is that famous light and color that has long attracted artists, that makes one feel so alive, makes a stroll down the wide seaside Promenade des Anglais so exhilarating. The old town is a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses, and small, alluring shops. A treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums is not to be ignored, nor is the famous flower market, awash in the heady scent and glowing hues of blossoms, and amazing displays of produce.

Long regarded as the “gateway to Corsica”, the picturesque port of Bastia is located on the northeast corner of the French island, and dates back to Roman times. Nowadays, the sunny, charming streets of the Old Town, or Terra Vecchia, are home to lively markets, restaurants and cafés, rich culture, Baroque architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Venture beyond the town to see ancient Genoese ruins at Furiani, or to Ville-di-Pietrabugno for a spectacular view of Bastia, Cape Corsica and the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Be sure to visit the Genoese Governor’s Palace or take a simple stroll through Place Saint Nicholas to enjoy the region’s famous wines, while nature lovers will want to see the Lake Biguglia Nature Preserve and archeological site.

Rome has something special to offer to all visitors, no matter their interests and tastes. Whether you daydream about fighting with gladiators in the Coliseum, debating with togaed senators in the Forum, tossing a coin in a fabled fountain, or being awestruck by the magnificence of St Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s masterpieces, Rome seems to live up to its sobriquet – the Eternal City. When you need sustenance, today’s Rome will provide delizioso pasta e vino. Or perhaps you draw strength from a little retail therapy – the Italians are also renowned for their sense of style.