Aix-en-Provence or Paris?

Why come study abroad in Aix-en-Provence? That is the question. My first answer would be because it’s in the south of France, duh!  The south of France is gorgeous and has many things to offer students. But what does Aix-en-Provence specifically have to offer students? What makes this city better than other study abroad destinations?

Aix-en-Provence

Making a comparison to Paris, Aix is very different. For example, Aix is a smaller city and one can walk through the center of town in 20 minutes. Aix doesn’t have a need for a metro or trams; local buses do just fine. They used to have public bikes so you could bike across town, but no one really used them because the heart of Aix is so small.

Another thing that differs Aix from Paris is that Aix is 30 minutes away from the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re a lover of nature, come to the south of France! If you want to live in the heart of a big city, Paris might be for you. If you don’t want to live in the heart of a big city but still have the option to visit one, Aix is the place. You can take a bus for 2 euros (round-trip) to Marseilles, the second largest city in France, to experience the bustling city.

The people are another huge differentiator. The people in the south of France are very friendly! In both cities, you will find people from all over the world. Aix is a very big university town with many international students. Aix, in the summer months, will also have many tourists; Paris has tourists all the time. Overall they are both beautiful places, but Aix has a special place in my heart.

Saint Victoire

Choosing the right city can be hard. The best thing is to ask yourself these questions: Do you like big cities? Do you love the hustle and bustle of big cities? Do you prefer a cozier town? Do you prefer nature to be at your fingertips? Pick your city based on what you love in a city.

I love Aix (:

Brooke Begich is the Spring 2016 CEA MOJO Blogger in Aix En Provence, France. She is currently a junior at Iowa State University.