The warmth of the sun on our skin and the smell of the sea were both welcomed as we arrived at Palavas Les Flots, 20 minutes south of Montpellier. Right on the beach, Hotel Brasilia was our base for two nights as we explored the area visiting both Sete and Montpellier. February was a great time to visit as the locals got on with their daily lives, enjoying the rest until the summer tourists arrive en masse. A local fishing boat named ‘Frogs Legs’ made us smile as we wandered along the canal that runs through the town, whilst trying to decide which restaurant we would try that evening. We were spoilt for choice but it turned out that the best menu seemed to be right next door to our hotel!