OFFICE: Good afternoon. How can I help you?

TOURIST: Hi, it’s our first time in Nice and we would like to visit the area. We’ve come for the Grand Prix de Monaco this weekend but we have rented a flat and a car for the week.

OFFICE: Well, the region has a lot to offer. Would you prefer to visit coastal towns or go inland?

TOURIST: I think we would prefer to follow the coast and see some of the well known towns like Cannes and Monaco. Ideally, we want some beach time and nightlife.

OFFICE: I see. As you probably know, the festival of Cannes is on at the moment so it is very busy and lively. If you go I recommend taking the train as there is a lot of traffic on the roads. I also recommend taking the train to the Grand Prix as there are special rates for people who have a ticket for the event.

TOURIST: That’s good to know. Is it easy to take the train in France?

OFFICE: Yes, you just need to buy your ticket before you get on the train and remember to validate it in the yellow machines in the station.

TOURIST: Do you have a timetable for the different trains?

OFFICE: Certainly here you are, it’s in English. Another town you should visit on the coast is St-Tropez. You can take a boat from Nice direct to St Tropez. It takes a couple of hours, the same time by car, but there isn’t any traffic and you will have an exceptional view of the French Riviera coastline.

TOURIST: Yes, I’ve heard a lot about St Tropez. Do we need a car to get about?

OFFICE: No, it’s a small village. You can get around on foot and you don’t have to worry about finding somewhere to park. But if you want to visit more things around St Tropez, such as the Esterel Massif or Port Grimaud which is known as the “Provencal Venice”, you should take a car.

TOURIST: I like the idea of taking a boat. But I would like to visit Italy. Are we far from the border?

OFFICE: Not at all. It’s very easy to get to Italy from Nice. You can take the same train to go to Monaco in the direction of Ventimille or you can drive. If you take the car it’s better to go to San Remo which has a local market every morning on weekdays.

TOURIST: Wow there’s a lot to do!

OFFICE: Yes, it’s a beautiful region with a lot to offer! Can I help you with anything else?

TOURIST: No, I think that’s more than enough information- thank you!

OFFICE: Not at all. Enjoy your holiday.