1 hour at Jaï

For many, Marignane is first and foremost the airport. Yet right next door is Jaï Beach, nestled between the Berre and Bolmon Ponds. When the mistral blows, windsurfers, kitesurfers, and water sports enthusiasts have a whale of a time on this long sandy beach.

But on this spring Saturday, calm reigns. And it's the locals of Marignane who are enjoying the sun and this popular beach with its unique atmosphere.

A seaside feel frozen in time.

The disused swimming pool and its diving board, the more or less patched-up cabins, the palm trees that attempt to create a seaside resort feel... Everything here exudes a discreet charm, a little faded, but genuine. The 1960s never seem far away.

Living nearby, I took the time for an hour's walk at Jaï Beach to take some pictures. Like back then, or almost...