Marseille Provence Greeters
In preparation for Marseille’s new title as the European Cultural Capital in 2013, the citizens of Marseille want to give visitors an authentic experience of their city. The Marseille Provence Greeters (MP Greeters) program was recently started by a group of locals who love their city and their region and want to share their unique city with visitors.
Starting in September 2009, MP Greeters will offer custom tours of Marseille-both to the major tourist sites and little known local spots (such as their favorite restaurant, shop, or park)-on a volunteer basis. Apart from being a genuine tourism alternative, this program will create a valuable cultural exchange between Marseille’s visitors and inhabitants.
How does it work?
Visitors (or “Veeziters” as they are referred to on the website”) must fill out an online questionnaire describing their interests (history, architecture, contemporary art, environment, sports, food, etc.) and what they would like to discover during their visit. Visitors will be paired with an MP Greeter with similar interests who can plan a customized visit to suit their needs. The Greeter will contact the visitor to plan where and when to meet for their tour.
For the best results, sign up on the Marseille Provence Greeters website at least 10 days before your arrival, stating the specific dates of your trip, then check the tours and activities suggested by the MP Greeters in the “Trouver/Proposer Une Balade” category (available in September 2009).
For more information, visit www.marseilleprovencegreeters.com. Though the website is only available in French at the moment, it will be available in English in September.
August 31, 2009
Posted in: France