Travel
What’s chikungunya? keep away from debilitating virus whereas on vacation as instances rise in France
Well being officers are warning travellers of a mosquito-borne virus that may trigger debilitating joint ache, after cases emerged in areas of France.
Whereas the virus often known as chikungunya is extra generally present in tropical areas of the world, instances have now been appeared in France, a well-liked vacation vacation spot for Brits, particularly through the summer time months.
This yr to date, France has reported 14 instances of chikungunya virus, on the mainland and the French island of Corsica.
Whereas Europe just isn’t at the moment experiencing a extreme outbreak, well being officers on the continent are making travellers conscious of the virus in addition to the rollout of a brand new vaccine within the UK.
Now we have rounded up what travellers have to know concerning the virus, plus recommendation from a specialist journey physician on methods to finest put together for travelling abroad.
What’s chikungunya and the way is it unfold?
Chikungunya virus illness is a mosquito-borne illness that’s discovered throughout tropical and sub-tropical areas.
It’s unfold to people by a chunk from an contaminated mosquito. It can’t be handed from human to human.
Most instances have been discovered within the Americas, Africa and Asia. Brazil has essentially the most instances, with over 141,000, adopted by Argentina with over 2,500 to date in 2025.
In whole, there have been roughly 220,000 chikungunya instances and 80 associated deaths throughout 14 nations/territories because the starting of the yr.
Réunion and Mayotte, two French islands off the east coast of Africa, have ongoing outbreaks of chikungunya, with the previous recording 51,000 instances as of Could 2025.
Mayotte has seen 560 instances, with the island moved to the epidemic part, which signifies intense and widespread transmission of the virus all through the territory.
The transmission of dengue and chikungunya virus in mainland Europe has been linked by the European Centre for Illness Prevention and Management (ECDC) to travellers who’ve caught the virus outdoors the area, then gone to nations inside Europe with mosquitoes which might be in a position to carry the virus after biting the particular person.
“The chance of domestically acquired chikungunya and dengue virus transmissions is due to this fact rising,” the ECDC stated.
What are the signs?
‘Chikungunya’ comes from a phrase utilized by the Makonde folks in Tanzania, the place the illness was first found within the Nineteen Fifties, which implies “that which bends up”. This describes the contorted posture of contaminated individuals who expertise extreme joint ache.
Alongside joint ache, folks may also expertise an abrupt onset of fever, joint swelling, muscle ache, complications, nausea, fatigue and rashes.
The joint ache may be debilitating and normally lasts for a couple of days, but it surely has been recognized to final for weeks, months and even years.
If an contaminated particular person doesn’t expertise joint ache, the signs shall be gentle and might go unrecognised as chikungunya.
Most individuals will recuperate absolutely from the an infection. There have been some occasional instances of eye, coronary heart, and neurological issues, whereas newborns and older folks with underlying medical situations are at a better threat of extreme illness.
Sufferers with extreme illness ought to be hospitalised due to the chance of organ injury or dying.
As soon as somebody has recovered from chikungunya, they’re more likely to be resistant to future chikungunya infections.
Is there a vaccine?
The UK authorities has permitted a vaccine in opposition to chikungunya illness, containing a type of the virus that has been weakened so it can’t multiply.
The vaccine works by coaching the immune system to recognise the virus, which can then produce particular antibodies to assault it.
It may solely be obtained by way of a prescription and given to those that plan to journey overseas the place the virus is current.
Final month, the federal government launched an extra announcement to say that the Fee on Human Medicines has briefly restricted the usage of the vaccine in folks aged 65 and over as a precautionary measure.
To stop getting bitten by mosquitoes, the World Well being Organisation advises utilizing pesticides; sporting clothes that minimises pores and skin publicity; utilizing window and door screens, and insecticide-treated mosquito nets; and making use of sure repellants to pores and skin and clothes.
A journey physician’s information on being ready
Dr Richard Dawood, a journey medical specialist at Fleet Road Clinic, defined to The Impartial how the vaccination will help travellers stop getting sick from the chikungunya virus.
He stated: “It is a new scenario for us. Till a really quick time in the past, we had no vaccine, and the one strategy to prevention was to make cautious use of insect repellents and bug precautions.
“So now we have got this additional device within the armoury, and since the vaccine provides long-lasting safety, it is one thing that might be thought-about in case you are planning to journey over a time period.
“It is a pretty costly vaccine, but when you are going to be travelling over a interval of years to Southern Europe and past, it could be one thing that might be thought-about.”
When requested about getting the vaccination for a visit to France, Mr Dawood suggested to have a look at the choice when it comes to the place you may be travelling over the subsequent few years moderately than within the context of a single journey.
“The chance from a one-off quick journey to France might be very small,” he stated.
“There’s been solely a really small variety of instances to date. So statistically, you are not very more likely to, however over time, as someone who likes to journey and loves going to scorching nations, then I’d most likely wish to be protected in opposition to it in the long run.”
Wherever you’re travelling, Mr Dawood suggested holidaymakers to “do your homework”.
He stated: “If there’s an precise outbreak at your vacation spot, then I’d say no hesitation, positively have the vaccine.
“Taking a little bit of time and getting some actually targeted journey well being recommendation in your specific journey may be very worthwhile as a result of it may well prevent from getting a vaccine that you do not want or that will not be smart for you, and it may well assist prioritise the actually necessary issues in your journey.
Journey clinics may also provide recommendation on issues like insect chunk precautions and decreasing the chance in different methods, he added.
For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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