Atout France in Boston: What’s New in Provence

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Corbusier, one of the striking buildings in Marseille, Cote d'Azur, France.
Corbusier, one of the striking buildings in Marseille, Cote d’Azur, France.

France is my favorite country.  I’ve been there more than any other country, and I never tire of learning more about what’s going on there.

Paul Shoul and I got a chance to learn about the newly renamed French Riviera last night, at a meeting of Provence and Cote d’Azur tourism officials and vendors at Towne Stove and Spirits in Boston.

The new name of the French Riviera is Cote d’Azur France.  I think that makes sense, as the words Riviera have been somewhat corrupted by so many imitators. Like Champagne, there is still only one, but many aspire to be the same. So we get “Mexican Riviera” and “Redneck Riviera,” so I think they’re much better off with Cote d’Azur.

One city that’s really roared back in recent years is the once-maligned Marseille, which today boasts a striking range of architecture around the city and a beautiful pedestrian area on their waterfront.  There is also the beautiful natural area right near the city with cliffside hiking and views of the stunning Mediterranean sea.

At the evening event, Loic Chovelon, General Manager and Susanne Zurn-Seiller, head of press for Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur Tourism board made a video presentation and talked about the highlights of a province where you can enjoy the beach in the morning and Alpine skiing in the afternoon.

In one photo a sparkling beach was shown with dramatic white mountain peaks in the distance.

We learned that Canne is much more than just a bunch of movie stars, and that the beach in Nice is indeed sandy and sunny all year ’round.  What a great place to visit, any time of year.

Marion Fourestier, head of press for atout France.
Marion Fourestier, head of press for atout France.
Loic Chovelon, General Manager of Provence-Alpes-Cote D'Azur Tourism board and Eric Doré, Director of the Cote d’Azur France Tourism Board at last night's event. Paul Shoul photo.
Loic Chovelon, General Manager of Provence-Alpes-Cote D’Azur Tourism board and Eric Doré, Director of the Cote d’Azur France Tourism Board at last night’s event. Paul Shoul photo.