Bonjour and Bienvenue!
I am thrilled to be writing to you from Aix-en-Provence, France! I still have to remind myself that I am here, because it feels like a dream. After talking about my plans to study here for so long, actually being here is so surreal.
How I am adjusting you may ask? It’s going much better than the first few days! Not only am I sleeping more, but I’m pretty comfortable walking around the city. Getting lost several times has helped to show me different ways of getting to the same place. Also, can I mention the killer legs I’m going to get from walking all over the place?
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| The beautiful boardwalk in La Ciotat |
Something new that I learned while being here is the history of the Provence region is that it was not always a part of France. Did you know that up until 13th century, Provence was its own territory. They spoke Provençal (pronounced: pro-vuhn-sahhl) which is a mixture of French and Italian. It’s still taught in some schools, but it’s not nearly as widely spoken. Now you know something more about France, tell that to some of your friends. You’re welcome! Before studying here, you’re definitely going to want to learn more about the Provençal language and history.
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| This is inside of “Les Carrières” where Marc Chagall's artwork is projected. The figures to the bottom left are people. This just shows how massive the walls are! |
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| Here is another projection of the Chagall's artwork. |
The South of France in general is absolutely beautiful. I know Paris is wonderful and magical, but the mountains, the beaches, and lifestyle here in Aix is just spectacular. You should definitely consider visiting this area! I reccomend a visit to the city of St. Remy where Vincent Van Gogh was admitted into an asylum after…you know… cutting off part of his ear. Or you can go to St. Baux and see the charming medieval town. Just outside of it is Les Carrières, a museum where the artwork of Marc Chagall is projected on huge 20 foot (6m) walls of a former cave!
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| The barred view from Vincent Van Gogh's room in the asylum in St. Remy |
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| View of the hilltop castle in St. Baux de Provence |
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| At the top of the of the remaining castle in St. Baux de Provence |
If I haven’t sold you on spending time here, well, you're going to have to see for yourself!
Until next time, A tout à l’heure,
Eberechi
Eberechi O. is the Fall 2016 CEA MOJO in Aix-en-Provence, France. She is currently a senior studying International Studies at University of Michigan.