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Colors of Calais - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Chateau de Willeman,Pas de Calais Calais is unique – it has many canals that separate the city into two parts, the so-called Calais-Nord (Old Town) and Calais-Sud (New Town). When moving from one part of the city to the other one, it feels like you are traveling in time. The two parts are so different that they look like two parallel, independent worlds. This difference is reflected not only in the look of streets and buildings but also in the atmosphere, mentality, and character of local people. At one hand, unhurried and relaxed lifestyle of people who live in the historic district and fast rhythm of a modern business center on the other one. That is the reason why fans of antiquities and travelers who like megalopolis will find something suitable and interesting in Calais.
Cuisine of Calais for gourmet with top restaurants and cafe
French cuisine restaurants remain the most popular dining facilities among tourists who come to Calais. The port area of the city is the location of cozy Le Channel restaurant. Here guests … Open
The region has always been famous for its independent spirit and pride of local people: free-spirited and self-sufficient, the aristocracy of Calais once even wanted to separate from France and live independently. Long before this, the city was a mere small village. Everything changed when Count of Boulogne decided to build a massive coastal fortress here. The main purpose of the fortress was to protect the land from English invaders – the countries didn’t get along well at that time. Later, Calais was occupied by the island empire for two centuries, and this fact has also shaped the national character of local people. Even nowadays, close proximity to the United Kingdom has its influence on Calais, but today it is absolutely peaceful.
Residents of Calais, just like the majority of French people, respect etiquette and good manners. They cannot stand rudeness and ignorance. If you want to make a good impression on local people, it is better to be aware of etiquette rules. That being said, the French treat foreigners with patience and tolerance, so tourists can expect to find understanding and indulgence here. French people are hospitable and they are used to a big number of foreign guests and migrants who enter the country every year. In Calais, just like in many other cities in France, there are areas for representatives of certain expat communities. Needless to say, these districts have an authentic atmosphere of the nations that live there. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
Excursion over cultural sights of Calais - 'must visit' points of interest
Calais is a cozy harbor town with numerous interesting traditions and attractions. Start your observation of the city from visiting the town’s beach. A walk here will leave many good … Open
Without a doubt, quality textiles have become one of the most famous symbols of the city. Since the industrial revolution, Calais has been one of the leading manufacturers of lace and tulle of the highest quality in the world. There are still several factories that embroider fabulous ornaments on feather-weight fabric. Handmade items are also widespread in the city – tourists enjoy buying them as souvenirs. When lace was extremely popular, more than a half of the population of the city worked at textile factories. Even nowadays, there are many experts who know about all secrets of this craft.
The Burghers of Calais There is an ancient tradition in Calais. Two times a year, Place d'Armes that is also referred to as “the heart of Calais” hosts interesting fair trades. Every Wednesday and Saturday, a market, in which local farmers and artisans sell their goods, opens on the square. This tradition has appeared after the end of English occupation – invaders opened a market on the central square of the city. When the territory was returned to France, fair trade with local artisans has become a symbol of freedom and happiness of liberation. Tourists are recommended to visit this event because it is not only a wonderful chance to get acquainted with local people but also an opportunity to buy something interesting.
Your active city break in Calais. Attractions, recreation and entertainment - best places to spend your day and night here
First of all, tourists should visit the heart of Calais – Place d'Armes. On this square, visitors can attend charming shops and admire gorgeous historic buildings. Twice a week, … Open
Christmas is always widely celebrated in Calais. This is one of the main holidays, just like in the rest of Europe. Colorful garlands and toys appear on the streets of the city. Many of these items are handmade. Locals decorate doors of their houses with bright wreaths. Fair trades appear on all major squares of the city. They offer Christmas souvenirs, sweets, and various entertainments for visitors. Perhaps, the parade of turkeys is one of the most unusual events in the city. The birds walk leisurely on the main streets of Calais. This original tradition is also adopted in several more cities in France. There are several theories about the creation of this parade.
This guide to traditions and festivals in Calais is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.
Calais - guide chapters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

City tours, excursions and tickets in Calais and surroundings

Reference information
Map of all churches
Cathedrals and basilicas near Calais
♥   Basilique Notre-Dame de l’Immaculée Conception, Boulogne-sur-Mer, 29.2 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Basilique Notre-Dame des Miracles, Saint-Omer, 37.1 km from the center. On the map   Photo
Map of all castles
Survived castles around Calais
♥   Castle 'Château de Fort Risban' Pas-de-Calais, 1.8 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Château de Boulogne' Pas-de-Calais, 29.2 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Château de Hardelot' Pas-de-Calais, 37.3 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Dover Castle Dover' , 40.8 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Deal Castle' , 42.4 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Folkestone Castle' , 48.4 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Stone Castle' , 48.7 km from the center. On the map   Photo

Unique landmarks in Calais and around

Shell Grotto

From the series “15 Historical Monuments, with Riddles not yet Solved”
Check on the map:   Distance from Calais center - 57.7 km.
The wonderful Shell Grotto has placed in Margate, Great Britain. There is no accurate date of the building and the original purpose of the Grotto. It was found accidentally by local, James Newlove, in 1835. He wanted to make an artificial pond at this place. During the irrigation projects, he found an unusual tunnel decorated with artificial mosaic from sea shells. It was subsequently learned that the tunnels were leading up to the huge underground 20-meter corridor. … Read further
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Colors of Calais in photos

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Traditions and festivals in cities around Calais

Oostende
The picturesque seaside town serves as a permanent venue for many interesting festivals dedicated to various areas of local culture and contemporary art. One of the locals' favorite annual holidays is the Beer Festival taking place in late summer. Locals consider beer to be their main national drink. Some varieties of the foamy drink have been brewed at local factories for ... Open »
Lille
Lille attracts tourists not only with its unique attractions but also with fascinating traditions and the great variety of holidays and festivals. Local residents are not indifferent to modern art and culture, to which a significant part of the holidays is devoted. Classical culture is given due attention as well. Lille has its national orchestra whose performances accompany ... Open »
Kortrijk
It should be noted that natives themselves aren’t overly curious and they won’t ask improper questions; such displays are considered a sign of mauvais tone. Many tourists, who visit Kortrijk for the first time, compare this city with the typical French village. Indeed, the course of life of the Belgians and the French has quite a few similarities, but you shouldn’t ... Open »
Gent
Excellent textile factories have made Ghent internationally famous. Gorgeous fabrics, which have been produced in the city during several hundred years, are exceptionally valued by many famous fashion designers. One of the major talents of local people is the production of quality wool and delicate lace. Products made of local fabrics will become a great gift or a memorable ... Open »
Ipswich
SPILL Festival of Performance is one more colorful event that takes place in the capital of Suffolk County. The eleven-day-long event usually starts at the end of October and lasts until the beginning of November. SPILL Festival of Performance is dedicated to modern art in its different forms. During the event, central streets of the city become the stage for various ... Open »
London
Strict following of rules remains one of main traits of local residents. This is true for absolutely all spheres of life. Londoners are very careful and diligent in work. They are very patient in filling various papers and documents, and carefully follow the traffic rules. It is worth noting that the same is expected from the newcomers. Any violation of public policies or ... Open »
Cityguide on traditions, mentality and lifestyle of people in Calais. Learn the best periods to visit Calais to discover its soul - authentic festivals, events and celebrations. We will also reveal the interesting habits, attitude towards the world and to tourists in Calais.
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