Abdullah Usman Morai | Sweden

Day Two – Following the Blue Coast of Mediterranean Dream: Cannes, Nice, Èze, and Monaco

11 October 2025

The peaceful silence of the French countryside was gently interrupted by the aroma of freshly brewed tea and coffee. It was still early when Alain and I prepared to leave Lourmarin. A long and exciting day awaited me, a full-day guided journey along one of Europe’s most celebrated coastlines: the legendary French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur.

The morning roads were almost empty. Early mornings have their own magic. The crisp air carried the fragrance of vineyards, olive groves, and damp earth, while the soft autumn sunlight slowly illuminated the Provençal landscape. Driving through southern France at sunrise felt like watching a painting gradually come to life.

Our destination was the departure point of Bonjour Provence, the local tour company with whom I had booked an eleven-hour excursion. The meeting point was close to Marseille’s famous Old Port, and thanks to the light traffic, we arrived comfortably ahead of time.

After parking the car, we stepped onto the pavement, where another irresistible invitation awaited us, not from people, but from the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked croissants.

The buttery fragrance floated through the cool morning air, making it almost impossible to resist.

Although an elderly couple was already sitting patiently at the tour pickup point, Alain and I followed our noses instead. Just around the corner stood a charming neighborhood bakery called La Pyramide, where a cheerful middle-aged woman welcomed customers with warm smiles and even warmer pastries.

Inside, shelves overflowed with golden croissants, baguettes, and other freshly baked delights. We ordered tea, coffee, and croissants still warm from the oven.

Sometimes, the simplest breakfasts become the most memorable, not because of luxury, but because everything is fresh, authentic, and perfectly timed. Sitting there in a quiet Marseille bakery, enjoying buttery croissants and hot tea, I felt that my French adventure had truly begun.

After breakfast, we returned to the pickup point.

The elderly couple was still waiting there, and Alain quietly smiled before saying,

“I think they’re from Quebec.”

A conversation soon confirmed his guess. They were indeed Canadians from Quebec.

Little by little, the rest of the group gathered. Another small group of middle-aged travellers arrived, also from Canada. They mentioned they had received a WhatsApp message from Silvio, the owner of Bonjour Provence, explaining that the original guide and driver had fallen ill and that the tour might be cancelled.

Fortunately, another message followed shortly afterwards.

A replacement had been found.

Everything would proceed, only with a slight delay.

I hadn’t noticed any of these messages because I hadn’t checked my phone that morning. When I finally opened WhatsApp, I found the same reassuring updates waiting for me. It was one of those moments when you silently thank fate that everything has worked out.

A little later, an American couple joined the group, and finally, our guide and driver arrived.

His name was Gilles.

He greeted everyone with an easy smile and cheerful energy. Although he wasn’t originally scheduled to lead the tour, he had kindly agreed to help his friend Silvio by stepping in at the last minute.

Our Mediterranean adventure could finally begin.

The itinerary promised an unforgettable day: Cannes, Nice, Èze, Monaco, and Monte Carlo, before returning to Marseille by evening.

Cannes – Where Cinema Meets the Mediterranean

The drive from Marseille to Cannes took roughly two hours, broken by a short coffee stop near Argens. Much of the route followed the Mediterranean coastline, where sparkling blue waters appeared and disappeared between hills, cliffs, and elegant seaside towns.

Eventually, we entered Cannes, perhaps the world’s most glamorous seaside resort.

Once a quiet fishing village, Cannes transformed during the nineteenth century into a favourite destination of European aristocrats. Today it is internationally famous for luxury hotels, designer boutiques, private yachts, and above all, the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, one of the most influential events in world cinema.

Every May, filmmakers, actors, producers, and journalists from across the globe gather here to celebrate cinematic excellence. Winning the festival’s highest honour, the Palme d’Or is considered one of the greatest achievements in filmmaking.

As I walked through the town, it was impossible not to notice enormous posters promoting films and studios. Palm trees lined elegant boulevards, while luxury hotels overlooked the Mediterranean.

The weather could not have been better.

The sky was crystal clear.

The sea mirrored the same brilliant shade of blue.

Luxury yachts floated peacefully in the harbour, many of them probably owned by celebrities, business magnates, or royalty. Elegant cafés stretched along the waterfront beneath rows of white umbrellas, where people enjoyed long breakfasts or leisurely coffees while overlooking the sea.

Wooden promenades and comfortable benches invited visitors to pause, relax, and simply watch the Mediterranean breathe.

Everything appeared remarkably clean, organised, and welcoming.

Like almost every traveler who comes here, I couldn’t resist taking photographs. Every corner looked worthy of a postcard.

I also bought a few small souvenirs, simple reminders of a place that has fascinated millions of visitors.

Although people were swimming and sunbathing, the beaches were pleasantly uncrowded. Travelling in October proved to be a wonderful decision. There was enough life to feel the city’s energy, yet enough space to enjoy it peacefully.

Standing near the famous Palais des Festivals, I found myself thinking about my own homeland.

Every year, filmmakers from around the world submit their finest work to Cannes, hoping to present their stories before an international audience. Cinema has the remarkable power to introduce cultures, languages, traditions, and histories to people who may never otherwise encounter them.

I quietly wondered whether one day a Sindhi film might be screened here.

Sindhi cinema has produced heartfelt stories despite limited resources. Imagine the pride of seeing a film made in our own language, carrying Sindh’s history, folklore, music, and traditions, being applauded on one of the world’s greatest cinematic stages. Festivals like Cannes remind us that powerful storytelling is never limited by language. Sometimes, a local story can touch the entire world.

After our exploration, Gilles gathered us once again, curious to hear everyone’s impressions before we continued eastward.

Nice – The Queen of the French Riviera

Our next destination lay only about forty minutes away.

If Cannes is synonymous with glamour, Nice represents elegance mixed with everyday Mediterranean life.

Founded by the ancient Greeks over two thousand years ago, Nice has long been one of France’s most beloved coastal cities. Its famous Promenade des Anglais, colourful Old Town, lively squares, flower markets, and artistic heritage have attracted visitors from around the globe for generations.

The city immediately felt vibrant.

Even in October, the streets bustled with life.

We had a little more free time here, allowing us to wander through squares decorated with fountains, statues, flower stalls, cafés, restaurants, and local markets.

The long seafront promenade stretched endlessly beside the Mediterranean, offering wide walking paths, seating areas, viewing platforms, and rows of graceful palm trees swaying gently in the sea breeze.

Restaurants overlooking the beach displayed stylish outdoor furniture beneath colourful umbrellas, creating an atmosphere that encouraged visitors to linger.

Compared with Cannes, Nice felt more relaxed and perhaps slightly less extravagant, though no less beautiful.

The beaches were livelier, with swimmers enjoying the pleasantly warm October sunshine. Looking around, I imagined how crowded these same beaches must become during the peak summer months.

Personally, I found October ideal.

Travelling just before or after the busiest season allows one to appreciate places without constantly competing with crowds. Destinations reveal a calmer, more authentic personality.

While walking through Nice, however, another thought entered my mind.

I remembered Shaheed Shahnawaz Bhutto, who tragically died here in 1985 at the age of only twenty-six under circumstances that have remained the subject of political discussion and media debate for decades.

It felt strangely emotional to think that such a beautiful city, filled with sunshine, flowers, and laughter, had also witnessed personal tragedy.

Cities, like people, carry memories of both joy and sorrow.

Perhaps Nice itself silently remembers those difficult moments while continuing to welcome new generations of visitors.

Eventually, it was time to continue our journey.

With souvenirs tucked safely into my backpack and a few snacks for the road, I boarded the van once again.

As we drove onward, the Mediterranean remained our constant companion.

The endless combination of brilliant sunshine, dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and blue sky was so beautiful that it often felt impossible to distinguish where the sea ended and the heavens began.

We made a brief scenic stop between Nice and Èze, where everyone eagerly stepped out to photograph one of the Riviera’s most spectacular panoramic viewpoints.

Èze – A Medieval Village Perfumed by History

Within another half hour, we reached the enchanting hilltop village of Èze.

Perched high above the Mediterranean, Èze appears almost suspended between the mountains and the sea. Its narrow stone streets, medieval buildings, flower-covered walls, and breathtaking viewpoints have inspired artists, philosophers, and travelers for centuries.

The village is equally famous for another reason: perfume.

Southern France has long been regarded as one of the world’s perfume capitals, thanks to the nearby town of Grasse, where fragrant flowers such as jasmine, roses, lavender, and orange blossoms have been cultivated for generations.

Our visit included a guided tour of a traditional perfume factory.

Watching the production process proved surprisingly fascinating. We learned how flowers are harvested, how essential oils are extracted, how fragrances are blended, and how master perfumers carefully balance hundreds of aromatic notes before creating a single bottle.

What begins as petals eventually becomes perfume.

The experience deepened my appreciation for an art that many of us enjoy every day without ever considering the extraordinary craftsmanship behind it.

Outside, the elevated views over the Mediterranean were equally unforgettable.

Monaco – A Tiny Kingdom with a Giant Reputation

Only about twenty minutes later, after passing through tunnels carved beneath steep hillsides, we entered one of the world’s smallest countries.

Monaco.

For years, this tiny principality occupied a place on my travel wish list.

Finally, I was here.

Nestled between France and the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco covers barely two square kilometers, making it the world’s second-smallest independent country after Vatican City. Despite its size, it enjoys global fame for luxury, wealth, Formula One racing, grand casinos, and the centuries-old Grimaldi royal family.

Gilles explained that because of Monaco’s location close to the Italian border, both French and Italian influences are visible throughout everyday life.

From the parking area, we climbed towards the historic district.

The scenery was breathtaking.

Close to the shore, the sea shimmered emerald green before gradually turning into deep sapphire blue farther out. Massive coastal rocks framed the shoreline, while elegant yachts floated peacefully in the harbour below.

Looking across the marina, Gilles smiled and said,

“I wonder how much these people pay just to park their yachts.”

I laughed and replied,

“Perhaps they don’t even notice the cost. For them it might be nothing. Real wealth, however, is measured differently. It lies in inner peace, contentment, and the happiness of the soul.”

Material wealth may purchase luxury, but it cannot always buy fulfilment.

That thought stayed with me as we continued exploring.

Colourful sailing boats drifted across the calm water while sunlight danced across the waves.

The narrow streets of Monaco’s old town were full of life.

We visited the Prince’s Palace, elegant museums, charming churches, and finally the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, where members of Monaco’s royal family, including Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly, are buried. Outside the cathedral stood photographs celebrating one of Monaco’s royal weddings, reminding visitors that the principality’s royal family continues to fascinate people around the world.

Throughout the city, observation terraces overlooked the Mediterranean, offering benches where one could simply sit and admire the extraordinary scenery.

Unfortunately, time was limited.

Every beautiful place seemed to ask for another hour.

Monte Carlo – Where Luxury Becomes a Lifestyle

Before leaving Monaco, Gilles drove us through Monte Carlo, the principality’s most famous district.

The legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo stood proudly at the center of Casino Square, surrounded by luxury hotels, boutique designers, and some of the world’s most expensive automobiles.

Sports cars gleamed beneath the afternoon sun, while nearby streets formed part of the world-famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit. Even driving along sections of the Formula One route felt special.

For a few moments, I found myself imagining the roar of racing engines echoing through these very streets.

A Melody That Crossed Continents

As we began the long drive back towards Marseille, conversations naturally resumed inside the van.

During our chat, Gilles surprised me.

He told me that he was a great admirer of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and owned several of his albums.

“I don’t understand the words,” he admitted with a smile, “but I can feel the music.”

His comment reminded me once again that genuine art speaks directly to the human heart. Language may create boundaries, but music rarely does.

As evening approached, I asked Gilles whether it might be possible to drop me directly at my hotel instead of the original pickup point.

Without hesitation, he happily agreed.

Around eight o’clock in the evening, after almost eleven unforgettable hours of travelling through some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, we arrived at B&B Hotel Marseille Euromed.

Another dream had quietly become reality.

I had finally visited Monaco, adding yet another country to my growing list of travels.

After saying goodbye to my fellow travelers, I checked into the hotel. The process was smooth and efficient.

Although located close to the city center, the hotel was still about a thirty-minute walk from Marseille’s Old Port.

Once settled into my room, I wasn’t ready to end the day just yet.

Travelling solo has its own unique rhythm.

Sometimes, the best companion is simply your own curiosity.

I walked through the nearby streets until I found a small Tunisian restaurant. Inside, a young man with curly hair, perhaps of Arab and African heritage, welcomed me in fluent English and patiently helped me choose my dinner.

Around me, groups of African and Arab families chatted happily over steaming plates of food.

I sat alone.

Yet I never felt lonely.

There I was, a Sindhi traveller in the multicultural streets of Marseille, quietly observing life unfold around me while becoming a small part of it.

The food was delicious, rich with North African flavours that perfectly suited the cool autumn evening.

After dinner, I wandered through the surrounding streets for a little while longer before returning to my hotel.

It had been a day filled with extraordinary places, meaningful conversations, cinematic dreams, royal palaces, Mediterranean sunsets, and the quiet satisfaction that comes only from discovering another corner of the world.

Sleep came effortlessly that night.

The French Riviera had already given me memories that would last a lifetime, and one more day of adventure was still waiting ahead. (Continues)

Click here for part-1,

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Abdullah Soomro, penname Abdullah Usman Morai, hailing from Moro town of Sindh, province of Pakistan, is based in Stockholm Sweden. Currently he is working as Groundwater Engineer in Stockholm Sweden. He did BE (Agriculture) from Sindh Agriculture University Tando Jam and MSc water systems technology from KTH Stockholm Sweden as well as MSc Management from Stockholm University. Beside this he also did masters in journalism and economics from Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur Mirs, Sindh. He is author of a travelogue book named ‘Musafatoon’. His second book is in process. He writes articles from time to time. A frequent traveler, he also does podcast on YouTube with channel name: VASJE Podcast.

The post Between the Mediterranean and Memories-2 first appeared on Sindh Courier.