In 2012 Kent and Nord-Pas de Calais are getting ready to Greet the World. As part of this, My Kent Big Weekend is going transmanche.

Thanks to our partners the Nord-Pas de Calais Tourist Boards, Eurolines and Eurotunnel, this year we are able to offer some lucky Kent residents the opportunity to experience the delights of Northern France as part of the Big Weekend.

It is just a hop across the Channel to the beautiful Nord-Pas de Calais region of France. The region, famous for its white beaches on the Opal Coast as well as rolling open countryside, is split into two areas: the Nord, which borders Belgium and combines a typically French atmosphere with a distinctive Flemish flavour, includes Arras with its rich architectural history and the vibrant city life of Lille; and Pas de Calais, which includes the main French channel ports of Calais and Boulogne with a wealth of museums, galleries, outdoor activities and local produce restaurants. For more information visit www.northernfrance-tourism.com

Eurolines is providing more than 90 free coach seats specifically to let Kent residents discover just how close France is. You will be guaranteed a warm welcome from one of the French Greeters – local people who are passionate about where they live and keen to share it with you.

The trip to the Nord includes a tour of the Port of Dunkerque by boat, seeing parts of the Port not usually seen by the public, and a visit to the Museum of Cassel in Flanders, a contemporary art gallery with pieces on display from world-renowned artists. The trip to the Pas de Calais region includes a visit to the International City of Lace and Fashion in Calais and a stop at Nausicaa in Boulogne, Europe's largest aquarium with more than 35,000 species of marine, freshwater and terrestrial animals.

As places on the coaches are limited and will be popular, before entering the ballot please check you are definitely available on the day, have a valid passport and you are happy with the terms and conditions of the offers.

To apply for tickets, simply browse the Big Weekend pages and enter the 'Visit Northern France' or 'Vist Pas de Calais' offers.

Eurolines
Eurolines operate Europe's largest regular coach network with travel to more than 500 destinations. They offer fares to Paris from just £39 – including free wifi on board, booking fee and a generous two suitcase baggage allowance. For further information visit www.eurolines.co.uk

Eurotunnel
Eurotunnel is the fastest cross-channel operator, with a crossing time of just 35 minutes, so you arrive on the Continent quicker than you think. Their fare structures also offer you good value, giving you cheaper fares when you plan ahead and travel at quieter times. Indeed, taking your car to the Continent offers you complete travel independence and lets you explore what you want when you want. For further information visit www.eurotunnel.com