# Chatting at the old port

**Language:** French  
**CEFR Level:** B1  

> Master everyday French conversation by listening to Inès and Romain's conversation about local life around the Vieux-Port of Marseille. It may feel challenging at first, but by the end of this course you will be able to fully understand and participate.

**Setting:** While visiting Marseille's vibrant Vieux-Port, Inès and Romain end up sharing a small outdoor café table because of the weekend crowds. They strike up an easy conversation about the local sights, the chaotic charm of the port, and how much the city has changed over the years.

## Lessons

### 1. Comparing prices in different places

Inès and Romain complain about the expensive coffee at the port and compare the prices to those in Toulouse and Saint-Denis.

### 2. Identifying tourist traps

Inès shares her expertise on spotting tourist traps, and Romain points out a long queue at a famous local bakery.

### 3. Discussing if something is worth it

Inès describes her long wait for authentic orange blossom biscuits, convincing Romain that the local specialty is worth the effort.

### 4. Discussing local transport options

Inès advises Romain on the best time to visit the bakery, and they discuss the history and practicality of the local ferry-boat.

### 5. Explaining what you do for work

Romain explains his job as a history teacher and how it inspires his interest in the port, while Inès points out a nearby landmark.

### 6. Warning someone about local wildlife

Romain and Inès plan to visit a local landmark at sunset and warn each other about the aggressive local seagulls.

### 7. Discussing how a city has changed

After sharing stories about seagulls stealing their food, Romain and Inès discuss how the city has changed over the years.

### 8. Complaining about ongoing roadworks

Romain and Inès complain about the endless construction work on the docks and discuss how it disrupts daily travel.

### 9. Suggesting a place to eat

Feeling hungry, Romain suggests trying a local bouillabaisse nearby, though Inès worries the port restaurants might be tourist traps.

### 10. Asking where a place is

Inès agrees to Romain's food suggestion on the condition that she chooses the restaurant, and mentions her morning visit to the fish market.

### 11. Giving directions to a spot

Inès explains where the fish market is located and warns Romain about the strong smell, though she insists the fresh fish was worth it.

### 12. Giving advice on when to go

Inès advises Romain to visit the market early to beat the crowds, and they finally head off to get their bouillabaisse.

### 13. Ending a conversation politely

Romain and Inès wrap up their chat, thanking each other for sharing a table and exchanging useful local tips.

### 14. Suggesting it is time to leave

Romain and Inès decide to get moving so they do not miss the sunset over the famous Foster mirror.