Dancing animates the rhythm of these places. When you're overcome by salsa fever, it is good to know where to go. There are concerts once a week, either on Thursdays or Saturdays. It is advisable to phone to know the times of the shows.

This reputable and reasonably-priced shuttle boat is firmly rooted in Marseillaise tradition. The landing stages can be found in front of Place aux Huiles at the Vieux-Port (the old port) or opposite the Town Hall on the Quai du Port. In order to avoid traveling around the port - both a long way to walk and a tiresome car journey in rush hour - the Ferry-Boat and its captain can take you across the old port in just five minutes. What is more, a fabulous panorama awaits you over Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Pharo Palace, beautifully framed by the upper reaches of the old town at the summit of the Panier district. Enjoy a delightful moment of relaxation amid the city stress. Phone for exact operating times.

The Galerie du Pharos stands on the old port, just opposite Pagnol's famous ferry-boat stop. With an emphasis on representational art, the oils on canvas and wood depict scenes of daily life in Provence and there is an array of still-life works. At Christmas, local amateur artists exhibit their works alongside the professionals. For details of upcoming exhibitions and events, kindly visit the website.

Navettes, a specialty of Marseille, are cookies which are made in the shape of small boats. This charming little shop, which overlooks the Vieux-Port, has been guarding the secret recipe since 1781. Do not miss your chance to taste this traditional pâtisserie. Though not very cheap the specialties at Four des Navettes last several months. Check website for hours.

A multi-purpose indoor sports, Marseille Escrime Club plays host to a number of sports events and workshops. Primarily used for fencing tournaments and training sessions, this is where some of the city's finest fencers practice the sport. Regular workshops, classes and amateur tournaments are also held at this venue, wherein people of all ages and skill levels can learn the sport from trained professionals.

Jardin Botanique E.M. Heckel is a botanical garden situated in the very heart of the city of Marseille in France. It is known for its extensive display of more than 3,500 species of plants, with the most notable highlights being the Chinese garden, palm garden, Japanese garden, Mediterranean garden and the unique greenhouse devoted entirely to plants of South Africa. This site is open from Tuesday to Sunday. For more information pertaining to the opening timings, kindly contact +33 8 9923 5991.

Philippe Beltrando has had his pottery workshop in Aubagne since 1980. Through the colorful shop s transparent wall you can watch the potter's wheel where dexterous hands shape that day s creations. Pots drying in neat rows on wooden plank, bowls going in the oven ... "Contemporary Pottery of long ago"-this is what the Barbotine is all about, items made for preparation and presentation of traditional Provence cooking, adapted to the modern world. Look out for recipes around the shop. The Barbotine is open to the public year round as well as Sundays in December.

This dance club, a few miles from Marseille out towards the Blue Coast, has an atmosphere of accordion music and "oldies" variety hits. Couples enjoy themselves dancing to the sound of the live orchestra. It's a good place to come and meet people in convivial and relaxed surroundings.