Located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region, Arles is the largest commune in France by area, spanning over more than 75,893 hectares. A city of history, culture and natural landscapes, Arles has no shortage of assets to charm its visitors.
Discover the Arles Arenas
Situated in the heart of Arles’ city center, the arenas are the city’s must-see attraction. Built around 80 CE, these arenas now host numerous performances throughout the year, including Easter ferias. Surrounding shops and restaurants know how to delight visitors.
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Stroll through the historic center
In Arles, enjoy the historic center and don’t hesitate to wander the cobbled streets. Shops and restaurants enliven the downtown area where life is pleasant and where Camargue specialties are to be tasted.
As the Fine Arts Museum of the city of Arles, the Réattu Museum will appeal to lovers of architecture and artworks. Built along the bend of the Grand Rhône, the Réattu Museum offers a unique view to contemplate. The museum houses a beautiful collection by painter Jacques Réattu, but also works by Vincent van Gogh, as well as various photography and sculpture exhibitions.
Discover the Camargue Natural Park
Created on September 25, 1970, the Camargue Natural Park is a site of European importance where one can discover nearly 276 species of birds. A natural space welcoming migratory birds, the park sees around 122,000 birds each year. Within the Camargue Natural Park, visitors can also discover the numerous pink flamingos, the Camargue salt flats, not to mention the Vaccarès pond, covering 13,117 hectares and classified as a protected area.
Visit the Ancient Theatre of Arles
Built under the reign of Emperor Augustus, the Ancient Theatre of Arles is among the earliest theatres of the Roman world. Classified as a historical monument since 1840, the Ancient Theatre of Arles draws visitors, though only two columns have survived out of the initial hundred, not to mention the splendor of the cavea ruins. Today, the theatre is open for visits and hosts numerous festivities during the summer.
Discover the Alyscamps district
Meaning Champs-Elysées in Provençal, the Alyscamps district is full of Gallo-Roman remains including Saint-Honorat Church and the Chapel of the Porcelets. The Alyscamps stroll is equally pleasant. The district has even been immortalized several times by painters Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.
Marvel at the Van Gogh Space
This expansive quadrilateral, formerly the Hôtel-Dieu, will become one of your favorite places in Arles. You will especially enjoy its flowering gardens and its cultural space that hosts exhibitions and other events through the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation. The Van Gogh Space also welcomes students from Aix-Marseille University and hosts numerous exhibitions, particularly during the Rencontres de la Photographie held this year from July 4 to September 26.
Taste Gardianne de Taureau
While visiting Arles, don’t miss sampling the local specialties. Take advantage of the many restaurants in the historic center to savor the famous Gardianne de Taureau. Among other Arles culinary specialties are fougasse, the Arlesian soup, Camargue rice, and raïto sauce.
Visit Montmajour Abbey
On the outskirts of the city of Arles, Montmajour Abbey bears nearly eight centuries of history and Provençal architecture thanks to its monuments from various eras. Visitors appreciate the charms of Hermitage Saint-Pierre, the Chapel Sainte-Croix in a clover shape, the Pons de l’Orme tower from the 14th century, not forgetting the Saint-Maur Monastery, dating from the 18th century.
Discover the Arles Antique Departmental Museum
Founded in 1995, the Arles Antique Departmental Museum aims to bring together all of Arles’ archaeological collections. From Prehistory to late Antiquity, this museum holds a diverse and history-rich collection. At the heart of the museum, also discover the Hortus garden, Roman-inspired, which delights children. A perfect family outing.
What differentiates a large village from a small town? What exactly are their definitions? A few answers.
What is the origin and definition of the word “ville”?
It is not always easy to distinguish a town from a village… especially since the word ville derives from the Latin villa, which means a farm! In the past, the villa indeed referred to an agricultural estate or a house located in the countryside.
This term then took two parallel directions, giving rise to the words :
villagium, then designating the farm as we know it;
ville, which referred to a “group of houses”.
Thus, the city is far from being a recent notion, and it covers indeed different realities depending on where in the world one lives. In France, the city is understood as a place where populations gather to carry out certain activities: commerce, craft trades, and service provision.
Agricultural activities, for their part, are the domain of villages. Moreover, the city is characterized by a concentration of housing organized along streets, which can be numerous depending on the size of the cities.
What is meant by village?
But this definition is also tending to disappear… For in many villages, one also finds concentrations of housing and various activities related to commerce, crafts, and services. Just like in cities.
Yet a village remains linked to the countryside and to the agricultural activities that are overrepresented there. But again, this distinction is far from being sufficient. In general, it is the number of inhabitants that is taken into account to distinguish a village from a city.
The figure used by INSEE for this criterion is 2,000. Beyond 2,000 inhabitants, therefore, the commune is considered a (small) city. However, there is also a nuance here.
Indeed, some municipalities with more than 2,000 inhabitants can keep the designation of village if the residents are dispersed around the center, and not concentrated in the heart of the commune.
In summary, city and village, what distinction?
The number of inhabitants and their distribution thus provide a consensus for clearly identifying a city from a village. Another criterion also enters into this distinction: housing density.
If the housing in the center of a commune exceeds 2,000 occupants, it means there is a dense housing stock capable of housing a significant number of people. As mentioned earlier, a densely built-up population of fewer than 2,000 souls constitutes a village; beyond that, we speak of a city.
What about the distinction between village and bourg? INSEE introduces here the criterion of the distance between two dwellings. When there are fewer than 200 meters between two homes, we speak of a bourg. Beyond that, we speak of a village, provided the other criteria mentioned are also met.
City, village and commune: what are the differences?
The commune is in fact the smallest administrative subdivision that exists in France. A commune can thus be either a city or a village, and it is necessarily administered by a mayor.
Today, to distinguish the different typologies of urban areas, INSEE refers to the notions of rural communes and urban communes, based on a density grid.
Low-density communes are described as rural, and communes with intermediate or high population density are called urban.
Fortunately, ridicule isn’t fatal! If you spot someone wearing a T-shirt that catches your eye at the airport, it’s because they’ve fallen for this new concept making the rounds on social media. It’s a challenge that involves wearing a shirt chosen by a friend, often quite conspicuous and hard to ignore. The Washington Post recently interviewed several people who took part in this trend.
Take Kate Swenson, a 43-year-old mother who, while traveling with friends, had to wear a T-shirt reading: “posez-moi des questions sur ma diarrhée explosive”. The only rule was to wear it for the entire first day, even if it made her uncomfortable. “I just remember the laughter, then regrets, then more laughter.” Some of her friends had to wear T-shirts proclaiming that they “transpiraient à des endroits inhabituels”, that they “arboraient des piercings corporels insolites”, or that they “avaient besoin d’un énorme cocktail”.
Following that, they recounted being tapped on the hand by flight attendants and laughing from strangers. Their social media post has racked up more than 83 million views on Instagram to date, and the friends said they felt “like celebrities” after being recognized on their Florida-departing cruise.
A Fun Challenge, but with Boundaries to Respect
Aarya Patel, who also took on the challenge by wearing a T-shirt that read “j’ai fait caca aujourd’hui”, said it was “a way to set the tone for the trip.” “We were finishing finals at that time. It helped us forget all that and focus on the trip”, she claimed. However, one should not forget that some airlines may refuse to transport passengers wearing clothing deemed indecent or offensive, in accordance with their terms of carriage.
That’s why one shouldn’t stretch their imagination too far. Paul Davis, a social-media and online-safety trainer based in Toronto, warned on his professional Facebook page against the “hypersexualized, aggressive and degrading” versions of this airport-shirt exchange and spoke to parents about them. He finds it cute, but only “within the bounds of good taste.”
He feared that compromising videos could harm some people and prevent them from obtaining a scholarship or a job, or that problematic clothing could trigger real-life conflicts. He also stressed that jokes about shirts referencing weapons are never a good idea. “I’d rather be cautious,” Davis said. “I remind kids every day that the Internet never forgets, and that, since it never forgets, it can be merciless”, he concluded.
What if visit prescriptions were about to become standard practice? For a year now, Yvelines has been testing a scheme that allows caregivers to offer patients a free museum visit. A model already adopted in Canada for several years.
And for good reason, in 2019 the WHO confirmed in a report that art has positive effects on mental and physical health. While several research studies have corroborated this report, a new British study suggests that art could influence biomarkers of aging.
This study conducted by scientists at University College London (UCL) and published Monday, May 11, 2026 in the journal Innovation in Aging asserts that a weekly artistic or cultural activity could slow the pace of aging, and as much as a weekly physical activity.
“Our study provides the first evidence that engaging in an artistic or cultural activity is linked to a slowing of biological aging”, declares Feifei Bu, an epidemiologist at UCL and senior author of the study, as reported by Science Alert.
A study conducted on 3,500 people
To reach their conclusions, the researchers analyzed health data from more than 3,500 adults in the United Kingdom, while measuring how often they participated in artistic or cultural activities. The scientists included visits to a museum or library, attending an art exhibition, crafts, singing or painting.
They then used epigenetic clocks (a biochemical test that measures the accumulation of methyl groups on DNA), thereby measuring the biological age of these individuals. In general, study participants who practiced at least once a week one of the activities mentioned above showed less pronounced signs of aging than those with a less varied cultural life.
According to the PhenoAge clock, their biological ages were on average one year younger than those who did not engage in artistic activities. The DunedinPACE clock, which measures the pace of aging, indicates a 4% slowdown for weekly practice.
Is art as effective as exercise for health?
Their findings indicate that artistic activities reduce stress, inflammation and improve cardiovascular disease risk, i.e., benefits similar to those of physical activity.
“These results prove that engaging in artistic and cultural practice should be recognized as a health-beneficial behavior, on par with physical exercise,” says Daisy Fancourt, an epidemiologist and lead author of the study, who has been studying the health benefits of art at UCL for nearly ten years.
What if an entire territory were steered not by elected officials, but by artificial intelligences inspired by the great figures of history? This is the captivating and unsettling bet proposed by British entrepreneur Dan Thomson, founder of Sensay, who asserts that he has acquired an island in Palawan province, Philippines, to establish a micronation governed by bots.
A year after the announcement, the project continues to provoke curiosity, skepticism and questions that go far beyond the tech world. Between the promise of supposedly objective governance and fears of AI missteps, this real-life experiment raises questions that could, tomorrow, extend beyond the borders of this small tropical island.
A Micronation Run by Churchill, Mandela and Gandhi: AI Edition
Dan Thomson’s idea sounds like something straight out of a science fiction novel. In 2025, the entrepreneur says he secured rights to lease and develop an island in the Philippine archipelago near Coron Island. He renames it Sensay Island, after his company, and announces the creation of a micronation administered by a council composed of artificial intelligences modeled after historical figures such as Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.
The stated objective: to test a form of governance that is, according to its founder, freed from personal interests and traditional political influences. When CNN asked what could go wrong in such a project, Thomson himself spoke with a hint of humor about the most extreme scenario: “If this AI were to start arming itself and attack neighboring islands, that would be a very bad situation”, he says. He quickly adds: “I think it’s extremely unlikely”.
For now, the experiment remains largely virtual. According to Emily Keogh, the project’s communications adviser, the island currently has only one permanent inhabitant, a caretaker responsible for maintenance. But Thomson says he has already encountered unexpected enthusiasm. “I think we’ve ended up with about 12,000 people registered and interested in becoming residents, which was far more than we expected.”
The island could, in the long term, host several villas mainly aimed at tourists from Palawan’s various islands, known for its diving spots and tropical scenery. “We probably have room for around 30 villas on the island. It isn’t huge, but it isn’t nothing”, explains Thomson.
A Democratic Promise That Leaves Experts Extremely Skeptical
On paper, Sensay Island envisions a participatory system. Future “e-residents,” with a program slated to launch in 2027, will be able to submit proposals to the island’s virtual leaders, the founder explains. “You will be able to submit proposals, and then the council made up of the artificial intelligences will review them and discuss them.” The digital avatars will present their arguments before voting, while humans will be responsible for implementing the decisions reached.
But this pledge of a more objective governance, supposedly free from traditional political interests, does not convince everyone. Alondra Nelson, a senior research fellow at the University of Oxford, was asked by CNN about Sensay Island’s claim that a private company could create a more democratic political system using artificial intelligence. Her answer is unequivocal: “Yes, I think that claim is absolutely ridiculous.”
Nelson notes that recent examples show technologies that are often unpredictable. “There are already many situations in which AI worsens problems, or produces just as bad outcomes”, she argues.
Even Thomson concedes that the experiment could lead to unforeseen situations if future residents propose controversial historical figures to join this virtual government. The founder insists that, as a social experiment, he would not impose principled limits on candidacies. “If we end up with Stalin at the head of the government, alongside Mussolini, Hitler or Genghis Khan… then this will be the result of this social experiment, and that is how it will end“, he states.
For Thomson, the primary danger would ultimately not arise from machines but from humans themselves. “Honestly, I don’t know what could happen. It’s precisely what I find fascinating to discover”, he concludes.
The rolling hills of Muğla Province in southwestern Turkey cradle the ruins of the ancient city of Lagina. Far from being a local tourist draw like the coastal villages of Akyaka, Marmaris, or Bodrum, the site nonetheless attracts a modest yearly stream of visitors who come specifically to pay homage to Hecate.
There, dating to the Late Hellenistic period and the early Roman Empire, a temple was erected in honor of this powerful Greek goddess, traditionally associated with magic and the Moon, but also with passages between worlds and communication with the dead.
While the worship of most other Greek deities, or even Roman ones, faded with Antiquity, Hecate remains a steadfast object of veneration. Followers from all over the world crowd into the complex to leave offerings or call upon her services.
At the End of a Sacred Road
It must be said that the Lagina sanctuary is a unique case in the ancient world. It is not merely a building, but a genuine religious center in its own image. Curious visitors wandering among its ruins, still scattered with columns, feel as if they are crossing the threshold into a parallel world, or at least stepping through a place as charged with history as it is with spirit. “It is the only temple of this scale in the world built exclusively for the goddess Hecate”, explains Professor Bilal Söğüt, who directs the excavations of Lagina and the neighboring ancient city of Stratonikeia, on CNN, the American network.
In the past, the two sites were linked by the Sacred Way, a stone-paved road a little over eight kilometers long. Lined with fountains, wells, or other small villages, this path once served major religious processions to the temple dedicated to Hecate. Already, crowds from across the region traveled to commemorate her.
Still a Pilgrimage Site
The most important ritual of the era was the so-called key-bearer rite, during which a young girl, a “kleidouchos” (literally “key-bearer”), carried the sacred token to and from along this route between Stratonikeia and Lagina. Throughout the journey, she was accompanied by a choir. “This key not only opens physical doors. It symbolizes the ability to move from life to death, from the conscious to the unconscious, from the old to the new”, notes researcher and author Hüma Zeybek, a specialist in Hecate, to CNN.
Since its construction, the site has experienced fierce political upheavals. After 88 BCE, the region was swept by conflicts between Rome and the kingdoms of Asia Minor. Stratonikeia chose the side of the legionaries, an alliance that earned it favors. From then on, Lagina took on renewed importance. In return, the Romans heavily invested in the temple and organized the festival Hekatesia-Romaia in honor of the goddess.
For these adherents of old times as well as those of today, Hecate, archetype of the wise old woman, serves as a guide in moments of crisis or transformation. Today, witches and wizards of a different kind continue to make the journey to greet her, to embrace her legacy, or to absorb her energy. “There is no other cult where material traces and traditions have been preserved so intact.” notes researcher Emrah Urtekin.
Sleeping in the heart of the jungle, writing aboard the Orient Express, or crossing the Atlantic with dozens of suitcases: Louis Vuitton trunks tell a whole history of travel on their own. On the occasion of the Monogram canvas’s 130th anniversary, the auction house Gros & Delettrez is organizing a public exhibition from May 19 to 21, 2026 at 2, rue de Bérite, in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, ahead of an exceptional auction on May 21 dedicated to the universe of the French house: explorer bed-trunks, library trunks, travel cases, or models designed for transatlantic crossings.
Far more than mere luggage, these objects tell a certain idea of travel, between luxury, innovation and adventure. To understand how these creations accompanied the evolution of travel styles since the 19th century, we spoke with the auctioneer Antoine Saulnier, who has led the sales of this specialty for over 15 years.
The Monogram canvas is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. How did this motif become such a strong symbol of luxury and travel?
Antoine Saulnier: Even when it was created in 1896, this canvas was truly a mark of distinction. At the time, most trunk-makers used plain canvases, often Trianon gray or khaki, or striped canvases. Georges Vuitton, Louis Vuitton’s son, created this monogram largely because the house was heavily copied. When he passed by the shop windows of rivals on Rue Saint-Honoré, he saw models very similar to theirs, sometimes even presented with phrases like “as with Louis Vuitton”. The creation of the monogram was therefore also a way to assert a distinct identity and to combat counterfeiting. The initials “LV” became a real signature.
Then, Louis Vuitton quickly became a major house. Louis Vuitton was the layetier-emballeur of Empress Eugénie, which contributed greatly to its reputation.
Then, in the 20th century, the house did not limit itself to trunks: the monogram expanded to leather goods and other objects. It went down into the street, it became visible everywhere.
And obviously, the brand’s international expansion amplified this phenomenon. The monogram has been revisited by artists such as Takashi Murakami or Stephen Sprouse. Today, Louis Vuitton is probably one of the most well-known luxury brands in the world.
What is fascinating is that it all started with a young man who arrived in Paris on foot, penniless, from the East of France.
Were Louis Vuitton trunks particularly innovative for their time?
Yes, absolutely. It’s even the brand’s great strength. Louis Vuitton has always sought to invent solutions that others did not dare to offer. There is, by the way, a famous anecdote: before creating his own house, Louis Vuitton worked for another trunk-maker. A client reportedly asked for a solution to transport glasses during a long journey. His boss refused, but Louis Vuitton allegedly replied that it was possible. This spirit of innovation has truly marked the house’s entire history.
Everything was fully customizable. This is clearly evident in this sale with trunks designed for explorers. We showcase notably two exceptional bed-trunks, including one made for Jules Tivan, an explorer of the French Congo. These are objects designed for extreme conditions.
There were also “Aéro” trunks, created to be lighter in order to travel by hot air balloon or by airplane. Louis Vuitton also designed trunks for automobile cruises, such as those used in the Citroën expeditions of the Yellow Cruise (April 4, 1931 to February 12, 1932) or the Black Cruise (October 28, 1924 to June 26, 1925).
And that went even further, the house produced medical boxes, trunks to transport photographic equipment, picnic necessities, travel secretaries… We even had very specific models, such as suitcases intended for transporting hunting rifles for ladies. At the time, travel often meant departing with an entire personal universe: clothes, accessories, writing objects or leisure equipment. Each creation met a very precise need.
Did the explorer models require particular materials?
Yes, everything was designed according to the travel conditions and the type of expedition. For explorers like Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza or Jules Tivan, trunks had to withstand extremely difficult environments, whether humidity, bad weather, insects, heat or long transports.
We can see this clearly with the bed trunks presented in this sale. They are quite extraordinary: inside, there was the entire frame of a foldable bed allowing comfortable sleep during an expedition, even in the jungle. These trunks were also very heavy and often required porters.
Some were made with materials specially chosen to protect their contents. For example, there were trunks coated with zinc, sometimes considered unsinkable, to prevent moisture from entering. Others were made of brass, wood or entirely leather for the most luxurious models.
Everything was designed to measure according to the traveler’s needs and the nature of the expedition. Some trunks were intended for transporting clothes, others for delicate equipment, furs, pharmaceuticals or even equipment specific to great explorations. Everything was organized to prevent objects from moving during transport and to arrive intact despite sometimes extremely long journeys and challenging weather conditions.
Looking at the evolution of the models, can we see a change in the way of traveling over time?
Yes, entirely. At the time, traveling often meant crossing the Atlantic with thirty or forty trunks. Luggage was designed to be stored for long periods, sometimes for weeks of crossing. One could bring a lot of belongings. Even a single full trunk required porters; you did not carry your luggage yourself.
With the arrival of the automobile and especially the airplane, constraints changed: lighter luggage, more maneuverable, and easier to carry by oneself. Today, journeys are much faster. Louis Vuitton understood this very well, and the house developed rolling models, more practical, suited to modern travel.
The very notion of luxury has changed. In the past, luxury also meant taking the time of travel. We crossed the world by boat, we traveled by train, we settled in for weeks. The journey almost became part of the experience. Some travelers carried wardrobe trunks, travel libraries or travel secretaries to continue writing, reading or changing clothes during several weeks of crossing. Today, travel is much faster and more frequent, especially by airplane, so the relationship with luggage is no longer the same at all.
But the know-how, it continues to exist. Louis Vuitton still maintains its historic workshop in Asnières-sur-Seine, where bespoke orders are crafted. The artisanal precision remains the same.
What are your favorites in this sale?
I really like the yellow canvas desk and laundry trunk from the early 20th century. It’s a very rare model, entirely original and in remarkable condition. The bed trunks are also quite extraordinary. They are seen very rarely today.
But I also have a soft spot for the small writing-library trunk. I find that it perfectly embodies the luxurious travel of the early 20th century. One can easily imagine someone on the Orient Express, writing after dinner, reading during the journey, then closing his trunk before stepping off the train. This type of object truly tells of an era when travel took time and was part of everyday life. It’s a very famous model. A similar example belonged to Ernest Hemingway and was found after his death in the Ritz’s cellars with an unpublished manuscript. I find this story fascinating.
Who buys these kinds of pieces nowadays?
The profiles are very varied. There are Louis Vuitton collectors, travel enthusiasts, lovers of vintage leather goods, but also institutions. These objects represent a piece of history: the history of travel, of luxury, of craftsmanship and fashion.
But there are also buyers who simply want a beautiful decorative piece. Today, most of these trunks no longer travel. They become coffee tables, decorative objects in a living room or a bedroom. There are also decorators, hotels or interior designers who buy this kind of pieces for their projects.
Even if some people still occasionally use vintage Louis Vuitton luggage for particular trips, these pieces have become, above all, collectibles and decorative objects, more than everyday travel luggage.
What if the best trips were ultimately those we hadn’t really planned? As spring’s long weekends approach and summer holidays loom, more and more travelers are ditching ultra-planned stays in favor of more spontaneous getaways. This is where renting a converted van, or a motorhome, emerges as the ideal solution for vacationers seeking freedom, flexibility and adventure.
In this rapidly expanding world of nomadic travel, roadsurfer has established itself as the global leader in van-based journeys. Founded in 2016 in Munich, the company now counts over 10,000 vehicles distributed across nearly 100 agencies in 16 countries. Compact vans, converted campervans, or family motorhomes: the brand offers a modern, fully equipped fleet designed to simplify last-minute departures. With unlimited kilometers and a spontaneity-driven approach, roadsurfer presents a new way of traveling, where the destination matters less than the freedom to hit the road whenever the urge arises.
The spontaneous road trip for travellers seeking freedom
Setting off without a fixed program, adjusting the route according to the weather, or extending a stop by the ocean: the road trip answers a growing desire for flexibility. In recent years, travel has transformed. Holidaymakers now seek freer experiences that can adapt to their momentary wishes.
Renting a converted van fits perfectly with this trend. In just a few clicks, you can book a equipped vehicle and hit the road a few hours later. An ideal solution for off-the-cly weekend getaways as well as last-minute summer holidays.
roadsurfer has precisely built its offering around this spontaneity. The brand relies on recent, comfortable and fully equipped vehicles, with unlimited kilometers to travel without constraint. Compact vans for a duo getaway, converted vans for several weeks on European roads, or family motorhomes — each traveler profile can find the model suited to their adventure.
To simplify organization even further, the platform also offers detailed practical sheets to help travelers choose the vehicle that matches their project. A surfing weekend on the Basque coast, a crossing of the Alps, or an improvised loop through Tuscany do not require the same needs. roadsurfer thus turns motorhome rental into a simple, fluid, and immediately accessible experience.
Offices across France and Europe for last-minute departures
One of roadsurfer’s major advantages lies in its wide network of agencies, designed to facilitate spontaneous departures. In France, travellers can pick up their vehicle near major cities and airports: Paris, Lyon, Aix-Marseille, Bordeaux, Nantes, Toulouse, Lille, Nice or Strasbourg are among the main starting bases. The Geneva agency, located in the Pays de Gex, also makes a quick escape to Switzerland or the Italian Alps feasible.
This strategic presence greatly simplifies last-minute departures. Quick spell of good weather forecast ahead? A long weekend on the horizon? It is enough to book a vehicle and head toward the destination of choice.
All of Europe becomes a playable field. Thanks to the numerous roadsurfer agencies across the continent, travelers can easily imagine a road trip spanning several countries: along the Portuguese coast, exploring the Scandinavian fjords, crossing the Dolomites, or sleeping by Croatian lakes. This improvisational freedom is now one of the main attractions of renting a converted van.
roadsurfer spots: the platform that makes spontaneous wandering easier
To improvise a road trip also means being able to easily find where to sleep. It is precisely to answer this new way of traveling that roadsurfer developed roadsurfer spots, a platform for booking unusual sites across Europe.
The concept is increasingly appealing to nomadic travel enthusiasts: spontaneously booking a unique spot at a farm, a winery, a natural space, or with a private individual, often close to preserved landscapes. Available notably in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, the platform makes it easy to combine itinerancy and lodging without having to plan every step weeks in advance.
This approach reinforces the sense of freedom that accompanies motorhome rental and van rental. A sunset facing the Atlantic, a night amid Italian vineyards, or a wake-up in front of Austrian mountains can now be improvised on the fly of the journey.
More than just a vehicle rental company, roadsurfer thus positions itself as a true facilitator of spontaneous travel. A brand capable of turning a last-minute urge for escape into an immediate adventure, with this promise that has become rare: the ability to still depart without planning every detail, simply because the road calls.
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Sponsored article by Roadsurfer. The editorial team did not participate in the production of this article.
Traversing the Rockies, skirting the Pacific Ocean, or reaching the Grand Canyon aboard a historic train… In the United States, several rail lines turn travel into a true journey experience. While summer holidays often herald crowded airports and saturated highways, train travel is attracting more and more travelers who seek slower pace and spectacular scenery. This renewed interest is far from incidental: Amtrak, the U.S. public railway company, logged 34.5 million passenger trips in the latest fiscal year. From panoramic cars to steam locomotives, certain American routes offer journeys among the continent’s most impressive landscapes.
From the Rockies to the Pacific, routes carved for the great outdoors
In the western United States, several lines let visitors discover iconic scenery without taking the wheel. Among them, the Canyon Spirit, formerly known as the Rocky Mountaineer, links Moab to Denver in two days, threading the Rockies and the red rock formations of Utah and Colorado. The itinerary passes through Glenwood Canyon, carved by the Colorado River, and provides access to Arches National Park. On board, travelers enjoy glass-dome panoramic cars, spacious seating, and meals inspired by regional specialties. Nights are spent in hotels along the route.
Further north, in Alaska, the Coastal Classic of the Alaska Railroad connects Anchorage to Seward in 4 hours and 30 minutes. This seasonal line, operated from mid-May to mid-September, runs along Turnagain Arm before traversing the wild landscapes of the Kenai Peninsula. Glaciers and waterfalls punctuate the journey to Seward, the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.
In California, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner remains one of the country’s most popular itineraries. The line runs from San Diego to San Luis Obispo along much of the Pacific coastline, with stops in several seaside towns, including Santa Barbara. “The train journey itself is breathtaking, winding along the southern California coast and offering fascinating views of the Pacific Ocean”, said Jason Abrams, head of public relations at Amtrak, to Travel + Leisure.
The Amtrak network is also betting heavily on this line this summer. New connections have been added between San Diego and Los Angeles to coincide with the FIFA World Cup, further boosting the Surfliner’s appeal for summer travelers.
Historic trains that hark back to the Golden Age of American rail
Other routes appeal mainly for their heritage value. This is the case of the Grand Canyon Railway, which runs daily between the town of Williams, Arizona, and the south rim of the Grand Canyon. The trip lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes in each direction and then travelers spend more than three hours on site before the return. A distinctive feature of the journey: some rotations are operated by vintage locomotives, recalling the glory days of American rail.
In Colorado, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad traverses some of the state’s most spectacular mountain scenery. This historic line links Durango to Silverton in 3 hours and 30 minutes aboard a narrow-gauge train classified as a National Historic Landmark, a designation given by the U.S. government for exceptional historical significance. Up to three departures are offered each day during the peak season. Travelers then have a few hours to explore Silverton, an old mining town perched in the mountains.
Another emblematic line is the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, straddling New Mexico and Colorado. Considered one of the best-preserved steam railways in the United States, it follows the meanders of a canyon before crossing a viaduct rising 42 meters high. This route operates six days a week from late May to late October.
Finally, long-distance enthusiasts can board the Amtrak Cascades, which connects Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, Canada, in a little over ten hours. The journey traverses the Columbia River Gorge and affords views of Mount St. Helens. Jason Abrams also noted to Travel + Leisure that Amtrak’s new Airo trains were set to enter service on this line this summer, with “new levels of physical comfort, a more coherent travel experience, upgraded equipment and dining services meeting today’s travelers’ expectations”.
6. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere at Kermel Market and Sandaga Market
7. Explore the Mamelles Lighthouse
8. Observe the biodiversity of the Madeleines Islands
9. Discover the Soumbédioune Artisan Village
10. Join an organized excursion
11. HLM Market: an authentic immersion in the heart of local life
12. Village des Arts: a haven of contemporary creation
13. Explore the Lompoul Desert from Dakar: a natural escape within easy reach by road
In Dakar, each day can take on a different hue: cultural in the morning, seaside in the afternoon, festive as night falls. Between iconic sites, natural getaways, and immersion in local life, the Senegalese capital offers a multitude of experiences to discover Senegal in a different way.
1. Visit Gorée Island and the House of Slaves
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gorée Island is a crucial stop to understand the history of the slave trade in Africa. Accessible by a short ferry ride from the Port of Dakar, the island houses the famous House of Slaves, a poignant museum that recounts the suffering and resilience of a dark era. Beyond its historical past, Gorée captivates with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Discover the African Renaissance Monument
The African Renaissance Monument is one of the most striking sculptures on the African continent. Standing 49 meters tall, it overlooks the city and offers a breathtaking panorama over Dakar and its surroundings. Inaugurated in 2010, this modern monument symbolizes Africa’s renewal, and the ascent to the summit includes a small exhibition about Senegal and its future aspirations.
3. Explore the Museum of Black Civilizations
Inaugurated in 2018, the Museum of Black Civilizations marks a turning point in the preservation and diffusion of African culture. This museum offers a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions, illustrating African heritage in all its forms. It is essential for anyone wishing to understand the richness and diversity of African civilizations throughout history.
4. Relax on the beaches of Ngor and Yoff
Dakar is home to several beaches ideal for relaxing or water activities. The Ngor and Yoff beaches are among the locals’ and visitors’ favorites. Whether you simply want to soak up the sun, go surfing, or enjoy a fresh seafood meal with an ocean view, these beaches offer multiple possibilities.
5. Stroll around the Rose Lake (Lac Retba)
The Rose Lake, officially named Lac Retba, is famous for its spectacular pink color, caused by microalgae that produce a red pigment. This natural phenomenon draws many tourists and is particularly photogenic at sunset. Pair your visit with a tour to discover traditional salt-extraction methods, a pillar of the region’s economy.
6. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere at the Kermel Market and the Sandaga Market
For a total immersion into Dakar life, a visit to the local markets is a must. The Kermel Market, renowned for its colonial architecture, offers a wide range of local products, from spices to seafood. The Sandaga Market, meanwhile, is the ideal place to find artisanal souvenirs and admire Senegalese crafts.
7. Explore the Mamelles Lighthouse
Located on the second of the two twin hills that form the Mamelles, the Dakar Lighthouse is an iconic spot to admire the sunset. Once at the summit, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the city, the ocean, and the surrounding area. It is also a good spot for hikers of easy to moderate difficulty.
8. Observe the biodiversity of the Madeleines Islands
Just a short boat ride from Dakar, the Madeleines Islands is a national park where nature reigns. You’ll find spectacular rocky landscapes and diverse birdlife. It’s an ideal day trip for nature lovers looking to explore a still-wild and pristine environment.
9. Discover the Soumbédioune Artisan Village
For a plunge into Senegalese craftsmanship, head to the Soumbédioune Artisan Village. You can watch artisans at work and discover a wide range of handcrafted creations, from jewelry to wooden sculptures. Interacting with the artisans will also offer a deeper glimpse into local culture and know-how.
10. Join an organized excursion
To visit distant sites or combine several activities in a day, consider booking an excursion with a local guide. There are many options to explore the Rose Lake, Gorée Island, and other attractions, while easing logistical travel around the region.
11. HLM Market: an authentic immersion in the heart of local life
The HLM Market is one of the most iconic places to understand Dakar’s daily life. Located in a lively district of Dakar, it stands out for the variety of its stalls, colorful fabrics, and its organized vibe. This market is a perfect spot for crafts and direct exchanges with vendors, often recommended by any comprehensive travel guide. Easily reachable by yellow taxis, it complements an urban exploration focused on authenticity and the experiences of this journey.
12. Village des Arts: a haven of contemporary creation
The Village des Arts stands as a haven for peace dedicated to contemporary creation in Dakar. This site brings together studios, exhibitions, and artist residencies, offering a current view of Senegal’s cultural scene. Located away from the busiest routes, it allows a more intimate experience, often included in recommendations from any travel guide. This visit nicely complements the more institutional circuits of the city center, revealing another facet of the capital.
13. Explore the Lompoul Desert from Dakar: a natural escape within easy reach by road
About 140 km from Dakar (a little over two hours by car), the Lompoul Desert offers a striking contrast to urban bustle. Accessible via the Dakar road, this natural site features dunes, campsites, and quiet, making it an ideal extension to an urban stay. Often included in the experiences of this trip, Lompoul charms with its isolated character and immersive ambiance. This excursion, frequently mentioned in any comprehensive travel guide, helps broaden Senegal’s discovery beyond the capital.
In conclusion, Dakar is a city with many facets that offers visitors a compelling blend of historical, cultural, and natural discoveries. Whether you have one day, a weekend, or several days to spend there, there is always something to explore. To deepen your experience, consider related topics such as Senegalese cuisine or the local music scene, which add yet another unique dimension to this unforgettable destination.
Is Dakar an expensive city? Understanding prices and the cost of living in the Senegalese capital
Asking whether Dakar is an expensive city comes down to analyzing a contrasted reality common to any major metropolis in West Africa. Prices vary widely depending on the district of the city of Dakar, the type of accommodation chosen — hotel room, guesthouse room, or room in a house — and the time of stay.
The city center and the Plateau, near the presidential residence, generally show higher prices than other Dakar districts. The best rates are often found by booking in advance or by venturing away from the most frequented Dakar road.
On transport, yellow taxis remain affordable for short trips across a few kilometers of Dakar, while the air travel options, notably via Air France on the Paris-Dakar route, help plan the overall budget. Dakar thus offers an experience adaptable to different spending levels, without compromising the richness of the experiences of this journey.
What to do in Dakar at night? Restaurants, the Corniche, and nightlife experiences
In the evening, Dakar reveals a lively and welcoming atmosphere, especially along Dakar’s Western Corniche, now a must-visit gathering spot. Here you’ll find numerous seaside restaurants, seafood joints, and restaurant-bars offering views of the Dakar skyline.
The Pointe des Almadies, loved by surf enthusiasts, hosts a vibrant nightlife, while the Mamelles Lighthouse is a popular vantage point at sunset. Getting around is easy with taxis, typically yellow taxis, quickly linking the different centers of the downtown. These evenings contribute to a colorful experience, perfectly integrated with the experiences on this page, blending relaxation, gastronomy, and urban discovery.
What to do in Dakar this weekend? Must-see itineraries and experiences
A weekend in Dakar allows you to combine heritage, nature, and culture within a compact area. On Saturday, exploring the IFAN Museum, the Independence Square, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral provides an essential introduction to the city’s history, marked by the slave trade and the legacy of Léopold Sédar Senghor.
On Sunday, a trip to the Western Corniche or the Pointe des Almadies provides a breath of sea air, while nearby nature reserves offer a tranquil haven. These routes, outlined in any comprehensive travel guide, let you fully experience the trip’s highlights in a concise but rich timeframe.
What to do in Dakar with family or children? Accessible and educational activities
Traveling to Dakar with children is particularly fitting thanks to a varied range of cultural and outdoor activities. Walks along the Western Corniche, the beaches at the Pointe des Almadies, or spaces set up for outdoor fitness trails provide relaxing moments accessible to all.
Educational visits such as the IFAN Museum or the Dakar Cathedral of the African Memorial allow for a structured approach to the country’s history. Getting around by yellow taxis makes short trips easy, and the availability of family rooms in guesthouses or in hotel rooms ensures a comfortable stay.
Dakar thus stands as a perfect destination for a rewarding multi-generational trip.
What to do in Dakar in the Plateau neighborhood? Exploring the institutional and historical heart
The Plateau, located in the very heart of the downtown, concentrates Dakar’s institutional and historical symbols. Here you’ll find the presidential residence, buildings related to the Governor of Dakar, and Independence Square, the city’s nerve center.
The stroll continues toward the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the colonial-era buildings, and the major administrative arteries. This neighborhood, easily reachable by taxis, is a key stop in any travel guide, offering a clear understanding of Dakar’s political and urban organization.
What to do in Dakar when it rains? Museums, markets, and culture indoors
When weather limits outdoor activities, Dakar still offers a wide range of cultural options. Museums, notably the IFAN Museum, allow you to discover West African art and history indoors. The HLM Market also provides a sheltered immersion into the local experience, ideal for purchasing crafts. Cafés, restaurants, and restaurant-bars in the city center offer warm venues to extend the discovery. These alternatives are an integral part of the experiences on this page, illustrating Dakar’s versatility in any weather.
This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence, then corrected, expanded, and validated by the editors of the desk.
