Travel guide – bonifacio
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Overview
The ancient town of Bonifacio at the very southern tip of Corsica dates from 833, but there is nothing old-fashioned about the tourist trappings and commercialisation of this buzzing haven that attracts huge crowds, particularly in summer. The visitors come for the magnificent setting, for the town sits atop a narrow limestone peninsula, the bright white cliffs plunging into the cerulean blue Bouches de Bonifacio strait which separates Corsica from Sardinia, just seven miles (11km) away. The most scenic way to approach Bonifacio is by boat, through the channel, almost a mile long that protects the town's beautiful natural harbour. No wonder that the buzzing marina attracts yachts from all over the world, as well as ferries and passenger boats packed with tourists from Sardinia and elsewhere. Alternatively you can fly in from Marseille or bus from the other Corsican towns. The Italian-flavoured town boasts quaint medieval architecture, offset with the requisite cafes, restaurants and boutiques catering to the tourist trade. The old town and citadel, built in the 12th century by the Genoese conquerors, is reached up a long, steep flight of steps. The citadel has been put to use in modern times as headquarters for the French Foreign Legion, which was based here between 1963 and 1983. There are diversions aplenty in the town and surrounds, ranging from watersports of all sorts to be enjoyed at the nearby Plage de Piantarella, to some splendid golf courses and boat trips to the offshore Archipel des Lavezzi island group.
Climate
The south of France has a warm Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Strong winds, known as la Mistral, can occur in the Cote d'Azur, Provence and in the Rhone valley particularly over the winter and spring. Northern France, including Paris, has a temperate climate similar to southern England with warm summers, cold winters and rainfall throughout the year. The western coast, from the Loire valley to the Pyrenees, is milder and summer days are generally very hot. During the second half of July and August most French take their five-week vacation to the coasts and mountains, and empty cities tend to shut down accordingly.
Health
French hospitals and health facilities are first class. British, and visitors from other EU countries, are entitled to heavily discounted medical treatment and medicines on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Otherwise doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Medical insurance is advised. Pharmacies will provide some first aid, but charge for it. There have been increased reports of hantavirus (caused by rodents) in the Ardennes, Aisne and Jura regions. Rabies also occurs occasionally. In February 2006, France confirmed its first cases of bird flu; all affected birds have been culled and precautionary measures taken. The risk is low for travellers, but close contact with domestic, wild and caged birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked.
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