Calais So Near - So France
Art and Culture - Museums and in the Streets
I love Calias, it’s a town and a port that I often go to simply to relax. One thing I enjoy is that despite is being within viewing distance of the coast of England where I live, Calias is France. Very much France, not some bland non-descript place that caters for tourists, it is France.
This may be stating the obvious, however when Calias is so close to England, was for many years ruled by English Royals and when its Port if so vital for Anglo- Franco trade one might think the identity of Calais is compromised. It is not.
Many British people pass though Calais, or maybe use it as an overnight stay waiting for the following day’s ferry after traversing France, or further for their “real” holiday. Those that do this are missing something very special.
Calais property prices are comparable with the UK, however Hotel accommodation can be very reasonable, especially if you are willing like I am to book the lower costs places. There are numerous functional hotels in and around Calias and if you are willing to be open minded and not expect perfection, you can get a good break without breaking the bank.
Calias and the surrounding area is served by a free and very easy to navigate bus network. I confess I do not know the motivation of our French friends in allowing any old tourist to benefit from free transport, but seeing as the French do, may I suggest it is a wonderful way to start to experience the town.
On the bus you see and hear real French people going about their business. This may seem rather obvious, however I say it because you are very quickly emersed into the soul of the place.
There are museums, art galleries, cinema, numerous bars, cafes and restaurants, but if you want to feel the place quickly, get on a bus.
Talking of museums, one I recommend is the Musee des beaux arts Calais, on 25 rue Richelieu, 62100 Calais – the museum is free, and what may surprise the British visitor is there is free parking on site and in the surrounding area. While our UK local government seem to desire to put off guests the French apparently want them. On entering the museum I tried my best effort of French, which was politely responded to by the staff, who then realising that while I was trying to speak their language my ability to comprehend it in return was limited, so the lady switched to English to explain what was on display and where. The Rodim gallery is impressive and probably a great draw of guests, however there is a lot more to see within this Musee.
Art in Calais is often on the street, it can be powerful, visual and tactile. So Museum, bus ride, coastal walk. Calais is more than waiting for the train or ferry home.
So just a few thoughts of mine on Calais- go see for yourself.
