Mediterranean Mecca

Seven years ago, Jeweler Dalila gherras did something any good Parisian would find unthinkable: she left a fine salary and stable job in the capital for distant Marseilles — where unemployment exceeded 20% and where the local disdain for relocating outsiders was legendary. Despite that dire outlook, Gherras remained convinced Marseilles' Mediterranean beauty and inimitable lifestyle would provide "an improved quality of life worth taking occupational and financial risks to obtain." Today, Gherras is not only happy and working in Marseilles, but she has also launched a new career in real estate as hordes of individuals, families and companies flock to...