I am hoping to attend the Pelerinage de Gitans in the Camargue area May 24-25th, 2014. Any advice on a good place to stay and how to manage the crowds?
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
It's probably already too late to find a place to stay, actually. Thousands upon thousands of Roma converge there, as you know. It's almost the middle of March at this point so you've left it a bit late. Managing the crowds? Crowds are crowds, expect the worst.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Oh dear,
I have found some lodgings in Arle, Aques-Mortes and near the Grande Mote but I can't get a feel for the time it would take to get to Les Saintes Maries de Mer. where the main festivities are held. We will have a car but don't want to be stuck in traffic jams. Also is parking impossible? Are there shuttles or could we ride bikes to get to the town. We want to see the gypsies but we also hope to see the wild life and birds.
Thanks so much for your response
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10221 posts
I think it would be too far to ride bikes. It will be crowded, so parking might be an issue. I would plan to arrive early in the day and expect a long walk from where you can park. I think it was about equal driving time from Arles and Aigues-Mortes. Arles would be closer to other things you might want to do.