The brash seediness of Marseilles, the glamour of Nice, Cannes and St Tropez, the charm of historic Arles, Orange and Avignon are just a few of the places covered in this guide. The architectural magnificence and artistic splendours of the major centres in Provence are covered in detail, but the author still has time for tiny, picturesque towns and villages off the beaten track. Artists, writers and film-makers all make their appearance in the pages of this guide and the influence of the region on their work is assessed. Practical information such as getting around, where to stay and where to eat, leisure activities and essays on history and art and architecture give the full picture .