marseille
oui, oui, marseille.
When friends have plans to be in Europe (celebrating their one-year anniversary) I will do what I can to go visit them, especially when it means I can explore a new country or city….and continue the tradition of crashing their honeymoon and anniversaries ☺️
At the ripe old age of 33, I arrived in Marseille, France. I was pleasantly surprised by the kindness and hospitality of the people of Marseille.
Landed super early, found the city bus to drop me at the old Port. Found my way to a “classic” French cafe with outdoor seating on the water in an attempt to “beat the heat.”
Truly the best croissant and eggs of my life. I knew I had found what I was looking for in France- pastries. Found myself in a political conversation with a French woman, explaining why the current president is not my jam (to say the least). Surely it was a hilarious sight for everyone around - both of us communicating in our native language, discussing things like healthcare, immigration, education, and civil rights. But you know that’s the beauty of travel - pushing people to be exposed to thoughts different than their own, hopefully listening and learning.
Anywho, found my way into an adorable picnic shop, Fernand et Lily, snagging a few essentials and an anniversary gift for my friends. Encountered yet another kind human in the shop owner, who graciously received my broken French and general curiosity, and treated me to a French beverage. Wayyyyy too much anise for me, but really loved the gesture. Visit them if you’re ever in Marseille.
Met up with my friends and had a whirlwind few days in a heat wave, filled with DELICIOUS food (Hododa, Barjac, Chez Moe, La Patisserie des Marseillais, and Razzia), limoncello spritzes, sightseeing, beach days, hawt city hikes, Marseille Pride, dj sets, record stores, and natural wine. Plus the incredible calonques!
I’ll absolutely be finding my way back to Marseille for more food, some of the warmest humans, and of course, more croissants!
