Laid-back Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence, France - quaint, classy, Cézanne, fountains, Mont Sainte-Victoire

Life in Aix is pretty laid back and chilled, making it a wonderful destination for any year abroad student! You'll soon join the locals around the central plaza, enjoying a café or a nice drink. It's a great studenty town, you're close to some fantastic landmarks (I went to the breathtaking Mont Sainte-Victoire and highly recommend it, although it's a bit of a trek). Marseille's pretty close, and it's great for shopping, you can enjoy some really pretty walks around the port and tuck into some fresh shellfish served in most of the restaurants. I also went to nearby towns like Saint-Tropez, Les Gorges de Verdon and Arles, for a few weekend trips. One place not to miss is the Iles d'Hyères which were beautiful - transparent water, sandy beaches and picturesque ports! 

Useful local words: 'Aixois, 'je kiff'.

What not to pack: There's no need for sheets or kitchen equipment as flats generally come furnished.

What to pack: Some sunblock and a student card.

Couldn't have done without: My headset for Skype.

Word of advice: Make friends with the locals, you'll get to grips with the language and they might even have a car! Great for trips round the Southern Riviera.

Donatella, French and Spanish, Bristol