George GwynnTOULOUSE, FRANCE. Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean sea, Toulouse has plenty to offer. Known for aspects as diverse as its aerospace industry and its local sausage, Toulouse cannot be ignored as a tourist destination, – or as a study abroad destination, for that matter. Below are the highlights of my time as a student here in Toulouse thus far:
Cité de l’espace
Offering a planetarium, a stellarium and an IMAX theatre, the Cité de l’Espace is ideal for those who enjoy learning about the wonders of space. Families in particular will have a good time here, given that the museum offers numerous educational and interactive activities. You can even try going moon walking (as in the photo above).
If the sun is shining, you can enjoy lunch outdoors, surrounded by rockets and space stations.
The Old Town
As a contrast to the Cité d’Espace, you can explore the old town. With its classic Southern French features, the old town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, replete with street performers and other sights.
Two highlights among them: the Basilique Saint Sernin or the Musée Augustins.
My personal favourite spot for sitting back and sipping a French coffee is the rooftop Café Le Lafayette.
Toulouse Plages
Toulouse Plages
My favorite plage is at La Praire des Filtres, open between June and August. It even comes with a ferris wheel and an open air cinema.
Stade Toulousain
Stade Toulousain
Back home, I’m not into watching sports, but I can’t seem to get enough of Toulouse’s local rugby team, which has been continually beating other French teams. In short: go once and see if you regret it. Students only pay around 20€ a ticket. The stadium is small but buzzing with life. If you’re lucky they’ll chant: “qui ne saute pas n’est pas Toulousain.” In other words – if your not jumping, you’re not a true fan!
Midi- Pyrénées
Toulouse is just a snap shot of a bigger picture: the entire region of the Midi-Pyrénees is a hidden gem with a lot to offer. From the medieval walled town of Carassone, to the touristy town of Albi: I recommend that you get out there and discover!