It’s about time I wrote about Toulouse (Toulouse in the Occitan language) and its surrounding areas! I haven’t had much free time these past few months, so these posts kept getting pushed back. Anyway, as they say, better late than never!

I mentioned in some previous posts that I moved to Toulouse in early November. When my work gave me the opportunity to relocate here, I was thrilled. I needed a change from the place I’d lived practically my whole life (yes, I’ve traveled as much as possible, but always for short periods, so my home base remained in Asturias, Spain). Toulouse seemed ideal: a city steeped in history and architecture, with a wide river and a metropolitan area of over a million people.

My initial impression of the city was fantastic. During my first weekend exploring the city center, I was captivated by the magnificent architecture. It had a distinctly French feel but was different from Paris. Much of the city boasts a unique and charming “Pink City” style. My positive impression has only grown stronger over time. I’ve fallen in love with Toulouse, the whole region (Midi-Pyrénée), and the whole of Southern France.

Toulouse is remarkably cosmopolitan, especially considering it’s not a major European capital. While I haven’t found precise figures, based on my observations, the percentage of the population with diverse origins seems comparable to London’s (and significantly higher than Berlin’s). I see this as a positive thing. Multiculturalism in Toulouse seems to work in a way I thought was no longer possible. Of course, it’s not perfect. There are some rough areas known as “quartiers sensibles” in French – Bagatelle, Reynerie, Bellefontaine (I visited Reynerie out of curiosity, and it didn’t seem that bad at first glance). You sometimes see women in full Muslim veils, groups of teenagers who might be up to no good, and even the occasional far-right sticker. But overall, the atmosphere is very positive. People from diverse backgrounds, particularly from both sides of the Mediterranean, appear well-integrated. You see many mixed groups of young people, interracial couples, “white French” people (although those from Southern France aren’t particularly pale or light-eyed) enjoying coffee in North African “Thé Salons,” and “dark-skinned French” people buying macarons in traditional pastry shops. The economy is strong, mainly due to the aerospace industry (though the local government is wisely trying to diversify). The city itself is growing rapidly, adding around 6,000 residents annually. As someone from a place that has been in decline for 30 years and is steadily losing inhabitants, I find this dynamic environment refreshing (and I’m not constantly confronted with closed-down businesses replaced by “Cash for Gold” shops, as in my hometown).

Public transportation is good, though traffic can be heavy (thankfully, I can reach my workplace by metro and tram). The airport offers numerous flights, and the train system connects Toulouse to many exciting destinations. Bordeaux and Montpellier are just two hours away, while Marseille and Lyon are four. Then there’s the whole Midi-Pyrénée region is astonishing itself, where every departmental capital deserves a visit. I’ve been to Albi, Montauban, Cahors, and Auch, all perfect for a Sunday trip (though Auch is perhaps less impressive). And, of course, I’ve been to Carcassonne, about an hour away by train, in the region of Roussillon. Rodez and Agen are next on my list. I don’t like ranking places based solely on beauty. Every location has its unique charm, magic, and ambiance. Our perception of beauty is subjective (and in my case, heavily influenced by my mood). I used to consider Austria the epitome of European perfection (Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, Linz), but Southern France now holds an equal place in my heart.

The weather is another plus. This past winter was exceptionally mild, but even typical winters are bearable and might even bring a few snowy days, which I admit I missed this year. Late spring temperatures might get a bit warm for me, but I tolerate heat better than cold, so I’m not too concerned. As I knew, it doesn’t rain as much as in Asturias, but we’ve had enough to keep the landscapes lush and the rivers flowing beautifully. The Garonne River even experienced high water levels for a few days in winter (without flooding), creating a spectacular sight.

Toulouse also boasts a vibrant cultural scene. However, if you don’t speak French (like me, unfortunately), your options are limited.

I have so much more to share about my time in France, but this is a start. Hopefully, I’ll find the time to turn this post into the first of many! To sum up, if you have the opportunity to visit Toulouse, even for a short stay, don’t hesitate – JUST DO IT!!!