Perpignan and beyond

Ahh, la belle France. We can never get enough of it. And there is lots to get. As of 2022, the most desirable places to spend your holiday time in France are 1. Paris. 2. Nice. 3. Lyon 4. Bordeaux 5. Marseilles 6.Strasbourg 7. Lille and, finally 8. Aix-en-Provence

And going one step further, recent stats show that France is not only in the top ten, but it is also number one according to World Tourism rankings (see here.)

1 France – 48.4 million
2 Spain 71.7 million 31.2 million
3 United States 50.9 million 22.1 million
4 Turkey 50.5 million
5 Italy 49.8 million

That’s quite some competition, but we really aren’t surprised. France has always been steadfast in its mission to remain quintessentially French, which the country and its people take quite seriously. You can plan on a two-week holiday and – next thing you know – you’ve extended your hotel booking for another two weeks.

Perpignan is a southern French city near the Mediterranean coast and the border with Spain. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Majorca during the 13th century, and a significant Catalan influence is evident in its medieval core. South of the old town, the huge Gothic-and-Romanesque Palace of the Kings of Majorca has ramparts with views to the coast. Where else can you find such a blancmange? And speaking of Blancmange, need we even tip-toe into France’s passion of good eating? No, likely not, as it can be found on every corner. Take your phrase book with you, do your best and enjoy the results: the French do love it when you try to make an effort and, in most cases, you’ll find that so many of them speak English anyway. And even if you both stumble your way through a conversation, just laugh and, many times you will make a new friend. Magic!