France

Year 10 Internship and Summer Camp: Anglais in France Launches Several New Features (Video)

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TourMaG – You are the founder of Anglais in France, but before that you were a teacher. What was your journey?

Jennifer Laur : The path is fairly straightforward. I hold a licence in English and civilization, then I worked as a teacher, both with the national education system and at the Ministry of Agriculture. Later, this led to the creation of Anglais in France in 2008.

TourMaG – How did the idea of creating this agency come about?

Jennifer Laur : With my family, we were host families for English girls coming from a Welsh secondary school. I really enjoyed welcoming these girls into our home and I found this work very interesting.

My mother was in contact with someone who had set up an agency in Versailles, and I already found that sector interesting. Then, with the rise of the Internet, I thought it was the right moment to take action.

TourMaG – At what point did you realize there was a real market?

Jennifer Laur : Being a former civil servant, I didn’t really think in terms of a market. I mainly aimed to do something enjoyable for myself and to please people who wanted to learn English differently.

I also wanted to enable English speakers, mostly British, living in our rural areas to share their culture and their new life in France with the residents of their host country.


We launched a second-year internship called “Bridge’nWork”

TourMaG – Your concept is unusual: 100% English… but in France. How does it work?

Jennifer Laur : The starting idea was to allow French people to connect with Britons living in France who hold a qualification to teach their language. As a teacher, that pedagogical aspect seemed essential.

The goal is to live an “English way” of life without crossing the Channel. These British families also understand cultural differences very well since they themselves are immigrants in France. They know how challenging certain situations can be when you don’t fully master the language or the cultural codes.

TourMaG – Do you address both young people and adults?

Jennifer Laur : Yes, absolutely. The stays start from 12 years old and go up to 80, including students and professionals.

TourMaG – Do you learn English just as well in France as abroad?

Jennifer Laur : It’s not necessarily the same approach. People who choose our stays often seek something very cocooning. We see more and more young people who refuse to go abroad for a first stay and who prefer to stay relatively close to home.

They need to feel reassured, to know they are only a few hundred kilometers from home and that they will be cared for all week within a family setting. There are no transportation logistics to manage, everything happens within a family environment.

TourMaG – What new features are you launching this year?

Jennifer Laur : We have launched a second-year internship called “Bridge’nWork.” It allows high school students to come to our agency in Vazerac, in Tarn-et-Garonne, to practice professional English.

They meet British partners with whom we work daily and discover how Britons build their activity in France: administrative difficulties, language barriers, but also the entire Anglo-Saxon culture of associations.

For example, we have 100% English-language charitable bookstores or associations devoted to protecting stray cats. All of this associative fabric around animals is very developed in the United Kingdom and also represents an interesting cultural contribution.


Summer camps for the younger participants

TourMaG – And for the younger ones?

Jennifer Laur : We have also created a mini summer camp in Vazerac, with a maximum of six youngsters and a native English-speaking animator.

There is always equestrian activity, English outings, and a very rural, family setting. It’s designed for youths who don’t yet feel ready to go abroad on a full family immersion on their own, and who want a first step before a more intensive stay.

TourMaG – CPF training programs are now capped at 1,500 euros. Is that a barrier for you?

Jennifer Laur : Yes, clearly. It compels people to fund a larger portion of their training themselves. We can offer shorter trainings, but it’s a pity because a full week yielded very good results.

We already have an advantage by offering immersion in France. The trainers must have an activity number and be based in France. If they are not auto-entrepreneurs or micro-entrepreneurs, they must hold Qualiopi certification, which is very challenging for language schools located abroad.

TourMaG – Does offering stays in France shield you more from the current geopolitical context?

Jennifer Laur : Yes, without a doubt. We haven’t seen a drop in demand; on the contrary, we think it could rise this year.

Our clients look for something very specific. The market has matured: people know exactly what they want and what they don’t want. Usually, when they contact us, they book a stay.

TourMaG – Yet the language-stay market has struggled since Covid…

Jennifer Laur : Yes, the sector is generally struggling, but it depends a lot on destinations and the types of stays offered. We are in a period of transformation. Young people may want something different today, and we must reinvent the language stay of tomorrow.

TourMaG – How do you specifically imagine the language stay in ten years?

Jennifer Laur : Very honestly, I don’t foresee it clearly. We discuss this a lot with my colleagues at UNOSEL, and it’s hard to project. Everything evolves very fast, just like travel agencies or tour operators. We must stay attentive to market evolutions and try to sense where the wind is blowing. Today, projecting ten years ahead is difficult.

TourMaG – And how do you see your company evolving?

Jennifer Laur : We picture ourselves remaining a two-person team. We don’t aim to expand the agency beyond measure. The idea is above all to continue doing what we enjoy and to satisfy our clients. We like developing new products to adapt to the market, but we want to stay in France, notably to preserve the closeness with the host families we meet in person every two years. Human quality and tailor-made experiences remain essential for us.

TourMaG – Are your clients loyal?

Jennifer Laur : Extremely so. Today we welcome younger siblings, cousins of former participants, and the like. Families find us mainly through Google and increasingly via AI. But more than anything, people want to speak directly with the founders. They seek that human contact.

We simply explain what we do, and if they connect with the concept, they book a stay.

Air France Cuts Off Access to Non-IATA Group Bookings

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Air France coupe l'accès aux réservations "groupes" des non IATA - Depositphotos.com Auteur monticello

CroisiEurope


It’s a fresh blow for agencies specializing in group travel.

After SNCF and the suspension of its dedicated groups portal, it’s Air France’s turn to restrict, starting July 1, 2026, access to its TIGRE Web platform to only IATA-accredited agencies. A decision that could penalize many independent group organizers.

According to several testimonies collected on the HelpDesk of Tourism Pros, non-IATA agencies have recently been informed by email that they must now hold an IATA accreditation to continue accessing the company’s B2B site.

In a letter sent to agencies at the start of last week, Air France explains that this evolution is part of “a process of structuring and securing the group reservation procedures for the Company.”

The company also specifies that this evolution aims to “guarantee usage in line with its financial standards.”

For part of the sector, this announcement sounds like a real hammer blow.

“All those involved in group travel who are non-IATA are affected,” sums up a professional in the field.


In the crosshairs for these agencies: a loss of flexibility and responsiveness.

In practice, many agencies specialized in group travel already work with partner issuing agencies for ticketing, without necessarily holding an IATA license themselves or a GDS such as Amadeus, Sabre or Galileo.

Until now, they nonetheless retained operational access to the B2B platform : checking availability, blocking seats, managing cases, adding passengers or price simulations.

“I manage the file from A to Z. I do all the work: I search for flights, I look at the fares, I block the reservations, I handle seat allocations and filling in passport details, birth dates… then once everything is managed I email Air France asking them to transfer my file to the issuing agency. There, I will no longer have any control over anything”

The goal for these agencies: a loss of flexibility and responsiveness.

“We will become dependent on an issuing agency. Our request will be processed when they can, sometimes several hours later. And we will no longer be able to book flights as soon as they open,” testimonies another agency manager who sometimes logs in in the middle of the night at the opening of sales to benefit from the best rates. “If we are not reactive, yield fares rise quickly.”

“On some group cases, I sometimes spend several hours searching for what matches a client’s request,” adds another group organizer, “it’s something you cannot ask of an intermediary.”


How to obtain IATA accreditation and access to a GDS by July 1?

On paper, the agencies concerned can still apply for an IATA accreditation. But in practice, it seems impossible to obtain accreditation, even for the first level (GoLite) and to train the teams before the July 1, 2026 deadline.

Obtaining the precious credential is not limited to a simple administrative membership. “You need accreditation but also access to a GDS, with the training that goes with it for two people in ticketing,” explains this agency manager, not to mention that all this comes at a cost.

“Financially, I cannot hire someone to manage emissions,” adds a leader.

As for issuing tickets directly through Air France, the agencies we interviewed lament higher tariffs than those charged by partner agencies.

Some group organizers also fear a monopolistic effect and/or bottlenecks at the issuing agencies, at a time when operators are selling groups for 2027.

On the side of Enterprises of Travel, Valérie Boned, President of the employers’ union, is surprised not to have been informed in advance of this decision: “Since then we have contacted Air France. We asked them to reconsider their position and at least give more time to agencies to undertake the necessary steps. They assured me they are working on the subject. I am hopeful that the company will postpone at least its decision to September 1.”

A situation all the more delicate as commercial validations take longer, especially on the CSE side, in an economic and geopolitical context that pushes many clients to delay committing.

In general, airline group policies are tightening.

“In recent years, it was clear that group conditions were hardening,” explains a professional interviewed by TourMaG.

For example, reservation windows have been shortened, sometimes from a month to only fourteen days to confirm a group. These strategies have also been implemented by other airlines, such as TAP Portugal or Lufthansa.

Contacted by us, Air France declined to comment.


Céline Eymery Published by Céline Eymery Editor-in-Chief – TourMaG.com
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Air France Delays Groups Portal Upgrade to September 2026

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Air France n’acceptera plus les agences non IATA à partir du 1er septembre pour les groupes - Depositphotos @AndresSernaPulido

CroisiEurope


This was a decision that had caused quite a stir among group specialists.

Last week, we revealed that Air France had decided to restrict access to TIGRE Web, its platform dedicated to group bookings, to only IATA-accredited agencies.

This decision was to take effect on July 1, 2026.

The Entreprises du Voyage conducted active lobbying to grant more time to the affected agencies.

“Since then, we have reached out to Air France. We asked them to reassess their position and, at minimum, to provide more time for agencies to undertake the necessary steps.

They assured me they are working on the matter. I am hopeful that the company will postpone at least its decision to September 1.“, we were told by Valérie Boned.

The message was well received and the instruction was applied.


Réservations “groupes” : Air France reporte sa décision

“Initially planned for July 1, 2026, the implementation of this change is postponed to September 1, 2026 to give the affected agencies extra time to organize themselves“, the carrier announced in an email sent to sales points.

The message recalls that, after this date, non-IATA-accredited agencies will no longer be able to make new reservations “groups” via TIGRE Web.

They will benefit from limited access to ensure monitoring, management, and finalization of dossiers already confirmed before early September.

It will therefore be necessary either to obtain IATA accreditation, increasingly difficult to obtain, or to rely on a professional possessing the precious credential.

And obtaining it takes time, but it also requires administrative steps and training the teams in the use of a GDS.

Air France justifies this approach by the volonté of “structuring and securing the group reservation processes for the Company.”

“We are going to become dependent on an issuing agency. Our request will be processed when it can be, sometimes several hours later. And we will no longer be able to book flights as soon as they open.” If we are not responsive, yield tariffs rise quickly, lamented last week a group tour operator.

This decision comes almost at the worst moment, as players face distrust from customers confronted with a geopolitical and economic crisis.


The fact of adding commercial validations to dossiers that have become more complex due to the war in the Middle East could slow the activity of distributors already worried about a noticeable drop in bookings.

Air France’s tougher stance toward group organizers is the result of a process that had already led the company to drastically shorten the window to confirm a group.

In the same breath, SNCF suspended its site dedicated to group travel earlier this year.

Best of France Webinar: How to Attract Canadians to France – November 16, 2021

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Thematic :

Business Development – How to attract Canadians to France?

Date : November 16, 2021

Time : 2:00 PM


Webinar Description

In 2018, more than 33 million international trips were undertaken by Canadians. Only 1.2 million Canadians visited France. Despite a strong appeal of the French lifest yle, France remains only the second most visited European destination for Canadians. Join us to understand the Canadian market and their consumption habits.

Why does Paris alone appear in the last position of the ranking of Canadians’ top 10 international destinations? Indeed, Canadians have an innate sense of adventure and have always shown interest in discovering new cultures. Canadians are increasingly seeking authentic travel experiences to destinations rich in history and culture, without neglecting their annual sunny destination. Doesn’t France have a card to play?


Our other tools for tourism professionals

Best of France has built a community of Canadians who love France. We maintain lasting relations with tourism professionals in Canada, through our on-the-ground actions and targeted, engaged visibility campaigns. Best of France is your facilitator for easy and immediate access to the Canadian market.

Canada is an important and growing market. France is the top destination for Canadians traveling in Europe (969 million in tourist receipts in 2019). In addition, there are now no fewer than 175 direct weekly flights, in summer, between the two countries.

● Prospecting & Qualification

● Meetings & Reports

● Educational Tours

● Webinars

● Visibility


Who we are

France is a source of inspiration worldwide, known for its culture, craftsmanship, and innovation. Best of France speaks to Canadians who want to experience true France, by revealing a deeper understanding and a clearer view of the French experience in Canada. France has so much to offer—let us help you discover it!

We develop solid relationships and partnerships between key players across diverse sectors in France and Canada. Our goal is to foster growth for businesses in both countries by highlighting and promoting expertise and innovative capacity through Best of France activities.


Contact us


Webinar Best of France - How to attract Canadians to France? - November 16, 2021
Manuela Tillé

Sales Manager

[email protected]

06 58 70 42 94

Website: www.bestoffrance.fr/tourisme

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Medieval Travel: Three Pilgrimage Routes Across France

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1/ The Ancient Route to the Holy Land

Connecting Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Gilles-du-Gard, once a major gateway for boarding pilgrims destined for Rome and the Holy Land, the Régordane Way still allows travelers today to move from the volcanic foothills of the Massif Central to the Provençal garrigue. Along the way, villages with rich Roman architectural heritage, such as Pradelles, La Garde-Guérin, or Génolhac.

Corsair to Launch Two New Routes From Mainland France to Guadeloupe

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Corsair va desservir la Guadeloupe depuis Marseille - Crédit photo : RP

CroisiEurope


By the end of September 2026, Corsair will no longer face any Europe-imposed constraints as part of its restructuring plan.

Until that date, the fleet must still be strictly limited to nine aircraft and slots must be handed back.

To read : Slots, aircraft… Brussels’ constraints do not dampen Corsair’s appetite!

The company led by Pascal de Izaguirre has, however, decided not to wait for this deadline to resume its development. It announces the opening of two new routes to Guadeloupe from mainland France.

Thus, Corsair will launch Marseille – Pointe-à-Pitre starting 15 December 2026, followed by Toulouse – Pointe-à-Pitre from 16 December 2026.

The routes will operate during the winter, on board Airbus A330neo.


The schedules of Corsair’s new flights

Corsair is already present at these airports in southern France, but this announcement allows it to continue pursuing its ambition: to offer more direct long-haul connections from major regional hubs.

The Toulouse – Pointe-à-Pitre route will depart every Wednesday at 12:00, arriving in Guadeloupe at 15:50. The return flight will also take place on Wednesdays, with a Pointe-à-Pitre departure at 17:50 and an arrival in Toulouse at 06:50 the following day.

The Marseille service will be operated every Tuesday until December 29, then every Thursday thereafter. The departure is scheduled at 11:30, with an arrival on the other side of the Atlantic at 16:00.

Returns are planned on Tuesdays until December 29, then on Thursdays, with an 18:00 takeoff from Pointe-à-Pitre and a 07:30 arrival in Provence the next day.


“For several years, Corsair has made a structural choice to directly connect the French regions with the overseas territories, with the aim of offering itineraries that are simpler, smoother, and better suited to customer expectations.

Today, no other airline offers as structured a network between the mainland and the overseas territories.

These new links between Marseille, Toulouse and Pointe-à-Pitre illustrate our will to strengthen connections between the territories and to facilitate the travel of all those who live, work or travel between the Hexagon and the Overseas territories,” explained Pascal de Izaguirre, Chief Executive Officer of Corsair

Ebola: Air France Flight Crews Barred from Entering the United States

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Les PNC d'Air France demandent l’obtention d’un droit de retrait sur la ligne vers Kinshasa - Depositphotos @RLGUESSAZ

CroisiEurope


After being shaken by hantavirus, the world watches with concern what is happening in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Since the beginning of May, the Central African country has been hit by a resurgence of the Ebola virus. On May 15, the government officially declared the 17th outbreak of Ebola virus disease to strike the country.

And unfortunately, the virus is spreading quite rapidly to neighboring nations. To date, more than 1,100 suspected Ebola virus cases have been recorded in Africa, including 263 confirmed cases and 43 deaths.

The strain behind this outbreak currently has neither a vaccine nor a treatment.

And the virus exhibits a case fatality rate between 30% and 50%. Under these conditions, the World Health Organization has declared the situation an international public health emergency.



Several countries have imposed restrictions on travelers heading to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its neighboring countries, starting with the United States.

These decisions, taken to prevent the virus’s importation, are now causing difficulties in the aviation sector, starting with Air France.


Democratic Republic of the Congo: travelers barred from entering the USA…

Since May 22, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a decree limiting entries into the United States.

Thus, the Donald Trump administration “suspends entry to the United States for foreign nationals who have stayed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in Uganda, or in South Sudan within the last 21 days“.

However, whereas commercial flight crews had previously been exempt, with the stricter rule now in place, Air France cabin crew cannot travel to the USA after completing a rotation between Paris and the DRC.

The UNAC, a union counting 2,500 members within the company, fears after having “learned today, Thursday, May 28, 2026, that the cabin crew are now affected by the ban on re-entering the US territory.

Shipments are being rebuilt“.

Kinshasa is served from Paris at four flights per week. The flight is operated with an Airbus A350-900. Air France has 41 aircraft of this type in its fleet.

Discussions have begun between the unions and Air France management to establish a right of withdrawal for crew members who no longer wish to operate on the France–Democratic Republic of the Congo route.


Flight Attendants Not Spared by Ebola Restrictions

They could thereby avoid being barred from staying in the United States, and also sidestep the risk of contracting the virus.

“An extraordinary CSSCT meeting has, however, been requested by the UNAC to management more than a week ago.

We have renewed our request to organize an extraordinary CSSCT meeting and invite representative trade unions to join us“, the union specifies.

On its side, the airline has acknowledged receipt of the American decision.

It recalls that French and foreign passengers can no longer travel to the USA after staying in one of the countries affected by the outbreak within the last 21 days.

To read: Dominican Republic, Maldives: Air France redeploys its aircraft for the next winter

“American citizens or residents affected by this measure are still allowed to enter the United States, but only via certain specific airports.

As with all airlines, Air France is required to comply with the entry conditions imposed by the countries it serves.

Customers affected by these new rules will be informed, and commercial measures have been put in place to allow them to modify their trip without charges“, the national carrier told us.

For now, while the DRC is the source of the outbreak, Uganda has recorded several cases, but all neighboring countries of the giant African nation are now considered at risk.

According to Africa CDC, the African Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the countries that could be affected are: South Sudan, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, the Congo, Burundi, Angola, the Central African Republic, and Zambia.


Romain Pommier Published by Romain Pommier Journalist – TourMaG.com
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What to Do in France: 5 Must-Do Outings and Activities

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France, a country of a thousand faces, is a premium destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of culture, history, and nature. With its varied landscapes and rich heritage, it offers a multitude of unforgettable experiences. Here are some suggestions to enrich your stay in France.

1. Explore the natural wonders of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Exploring the natural wonders of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes presents a unique opportunity to grasp the diversity of the French territory through remarkable excursion spots, ranging from breathtaking panoramas to hiking trails suited for all levels. From the striking silhouette of Mont Aiguille to the heights of the Mont Blanc, the Alpine ranges provide a grand, nature-immersive experience in a preserved environment.

Further south, the Ardèche Gorges invite you to discover a beautiful region shaped by erosion, suitable for water activities and contemplation. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is also a favored stop for slow tourism enthusiasts.

2. Dive into history in Brittany

Diving into Brittany’s history allows you to blend patrimonial richness with immersion in a varied natural setting. From the corsair city of Saint-Malo, with its formidable ramparts and tales of pirates, to the fascinating Côte de Granit Rose, the region offers a succession of excursion spots where geology becomes spectacle.

Further south, the Golfe du Morbihan unfolds its calm waters and archipelago, ideal for gentle sailing. This southwest region, though Atlantic-facing, shares with the Baie de Somme and the Camargue a wonderful discovery of natural heritage, a commitment to showcasing miles of coastline dotted with hiking paths and stunning viewpoints.

3. Discover Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region stands out for its ability to bring together on a single territory breathtaking panoramas, prestigious vineyards, and iconic excursion spots. From the Verdon Gorge to the Calanques of Cassis, the rugged landscapes offer a variety of hiking trails ideal for exploring the Mediterranean ecosystems, accompanied by the chirping of cicadas in the background.

The Camargue, emblematic delta region of the Rhône, is a striking destination for any traveler seeking a memorable discovery. Nearby, the lavender landscapes of the Valensole plateau are a must-see.

4. Admire the emblematic sites of Normandy

To admire Normandy’s iconic sites is to traverse France’s history through a spectacular geography, ranging from the village of Rocamadour to Roman bridges and natural marvels. The Mont-Saint-Michel, a spiritual and architectural landmark, towers at the heart of a bay stretching for kilometers, offering an essential stop on any heritage itinerary.

Further north, the Étretat cliffs bear witness to a remarkable geological excursion site, where the heights are appreciated from the white chalk cliffs that loom over the English Channel. In this panorama, Normandy echoes with sites of the Loire Valley or the Orgues d’Ille, through its inclusion in a landscape reading of the national memory.

5. Absorb art and culture in Paris

Paris, the vibrant heart of French culture, condenses, within a few kilometers, an impressive array of historic and artistic excursion spots, where one passes seamlessly from the Sacré-Cœur to the Arc de Triomphe, crossing centuries and styles.

As a true world capital of heritage, the city sits within a historical continuity embodied by the Château de Versailles, whose 17th-century splendor still resonates in the salons and classical gardens. In a slow-tourism-inspired approach, the capital also lends itself to gentle experiences, such as strolls along the banks of the Seine or river itineraries.

Where to go in France with a small budget? Discover the country differently, between heritage and simplicity

Traveling in France on a tight budget does not mean sacrificing quality or discovery. The country offers a variety of accessible destinations where tourism in France blends authenticity with cost control. Rural regions, such as inland Brittany, Auvergne, or Périgord, allow exploring areas rich in culture and gastronomy without excessive expenses. Well-located inns, gîtes, and campsites provide simple yet inviting comfort. Regional transport, local markets, and hiking routes facilitate a slower and more economical approach to travel. Traveling on a small budget in France also means rediscovering the value of nearby heritage, far from overly touristed circuits.

What is France’s most beautiful place to visit? A country of plural beauties

Seeking the most beautiful place to visit in France means confronting the diversity of a territory with many faces. France cannot be reduced to a single image: it is a mosaic of landscapes and cultures. From the cliffs of Normandy to the Calanques of Provence, from the perched villages of the Lubéron to the snowy peaks of the Alps, each region expresses a unique beauty. Paris seduces with its universal heritage, yet the Atlantic coasts, the Dordogne, or Corsica embody other forms of elegance and authenticity. The most beautiful place in France therefore depends on the relationship each person has with nature, history, or gastronomy.

Where to vacation in France? Between coast, mountains, and the art of living

Knowing where to spend your holidays in France depends on each traveler’s desires. The coastline offers contrasting experiences: the Atlantic with family-friendly resorts, the Mediterranean with historic ports, and the Channel with soothing landscapes. The mountains, from the Pyrenees to the Alps, welcome hikers, nature enthusiasts, and fans of high-altitude sports, while the wine regions — Burgundy, Alsace, or Bordeaux — allure with their way of life. France stands out for the density of its tourism offerings, able to combine culture, cuisine and relaxation.

This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence, then corrected, expanded, and validated by the editors of the desk.

Mysterious France: Three Itineraries Through the Land of Legends and Monsters

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The Arthurian Cycle, Norman Style

There isn’t only the Breton forest of Brocéliande to have linked its name to Arthurian legends. In the Mortainais, a secluded and wild valley in the southeast of the Manche, several sites are tied to the sovereign and his knights. Notably Arthour’s Fosse, sandstone gorges carved by the Sonce, where the king is said to be buried.

MSC Aims to Capitalize on Cruise Growth in France

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Cécile Walson : "la croisière continue à gagner du terrain alors que d’autres segments ralentissent, cela montre que le produit trouve sa place au sein du tourisme" - Photo MSC

CroisiEurope


Growth remains modest, but MSC sees a underlying signal.

While the French cruise market expanded by 1.8% in 2025, the company prefers to place this figure in perspective against a global tourism market that remains under pressure.

« We are probably not going to see double-digit growth every year. But if cruising continues to gain ground while other segments slow down, it shows that the product has found its place within tourism », notes Cécile Walson, Chief Commercial Officer.

Today, growth is driven by a twofold engine : a solid base of repeat customers, but also the arrival of new clients attracted by the cruise model. « Many French people have not tried it yet. Once they embark, satisfaction and repeat-visit rates are typically very high. »


« The Reserved Price Is the Price Paid »

Selon les données mises en avant par MSC, près de 31 % des Français n’ayant jamais effectué de croisière se déclarent intéressés par l’expérience, attirés notamment par le rapport qualité-prix, les destinations proposées et la simplicité d’organisation.

Ainsi, depuis Marseille, à bord du MSC Orchestra, on trouve des cabines à partir de 399 euros par personne pour un départ le 12 juin. Et, pour un embarquement le 2 juillet sur le même navire, c’est à partir de 569 euros

Pour la compagnie, le produit bénéficie aussi d’un effet de comparaison favorable : formule intégrée, logique de club, itinérance et maîtrise du budget. MSC rappelle que son offre comprend hébergement, restauration, activités et clubs enfants.

Autre message adressé au marché : aucune surcharge carburant ne sera appliquée en 2026 sur la partie croisière opérée directement par MSC. « Le prix réservé est le prix payé », insiste la compagnie.

Cécile Walson évoque un environnement plus complexe que la seule question du pouvoir d’achat: contexte géopolitique, climat international plus incertain et recherche croissante de voyages simples à organiser.


Marseille, the Antilles… and new routes to boost demand


Cécile Walson et Patrick Pourbaix (MSC) lors de la mise à l'eau, le 12 novembre, du World Asia aux Chantiers de l'Atlantique. Le navire proposera des croisières de 7 nuits en Méditerranée dès décembre 2026 @LG

Although summer bookings are appearing more cautious and oriented toward last-minute, MSC notes a more favorable dynamic for the upcoming winter season.

The positioning of the MSC World Europa in the Antilles has notably triggered a strong acceleration in bookings, driven by both overseas and mainland clientele.

In parallel, the MSC World Asia will join Marseille from December 2026 to operate year-round in the Mediterranean. Yet the company is also refreshing its offer for the more seasoned customers.

Among the novelties are the opening of Alaska itineraries from Seattle and Vancouver, but also a new program departing from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, with an extended summer presence.

MSC continues to invest in Florida, notably driven by the appeal of Miami, a destination that many French travelers now combine with a few days on site before setting sail.


Laurent Guéna Published by Laurent Guéna Journalist – TourMaG.com
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