A Quarter-of-a-Century and a Little Bit Gypsy: If I move to Marseille, will you guys come visit?

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit the beautiful Mediterranean city of Marseille with my host family; which lies about 75 km south of Mallemort, the Provencal village where I am living for the month! I wasn't sure how I would feel about the city, given the recent seedy history and CNN updates (Although my host mom mentioned that I live in the same country that Chicago is in, which she says " has both mafia AND cold winter" :))

However, I absolutely LOVED it! The city itself reminded me a bit of Barcelona, but with a better atmosphere and overall vibe (I got a bit of a stare from a local who I compared it to; she was like "No, they are both Mediterranean but Marseille has French class"). Talk about an eclectic, diverse city: the second-largest city in France is harmoniously balanced with: French culture (they are extremely proud of both their wine and traditional soap-making), cultural diversity in general, Roman influence (Latin nerd over here!), lively nightlife, forts that date back to nearly-Biblical times, intricate Catholic cathedrals, mountains, the Mediterranean sea/beaches, a notable beachside university, etc etc etc. Seeing as how French universities are free, once I figure out how to maneuver a couple of loopholes (i.e. not being a French citizen), I think I know where I will be receiving my next degree ;)

My host family took me along to a beachside fête for Caroline's (the host 'mom') work; which was about the most exciting work party I believe I've been to! They served hors-d'oeuvres and a local Provencal wine; which is a white, but has a slight pinkish tint to it-- very tasty! Caroline's friends were very vivacious, welcoming, and friendly, and taught me the rules of Pétanque, which is a game traditional to the South-of-France. I got the first point (beginner's luck, I suppose), and they were jokingly not happy that "Team USA" scored before anyone else, ha ha. At the party, when I explained to someone where I was from, she told me that she has a friend obsessed with Nashville and the country music scene-- and he even has it set as his location on Facebook (even though he is from Marseille). When she asked him about it, he responded that it was "better for launching his country music career." How wonderfully hilarious!

Although I have loved everywhere I have visited thus far in France, Marseille is a city I can see myself spending far more time in. Despite is sometimes negative rep, it is a city with aesthetics, culture, class, and a balance of cultural awareness and French-ness.