Security is getting tighter in the southern French beach resort of Biarritz ahead of the G7 leaders’ summit beginning this weekend.
The airport and railway station closed down on Friday afternoon and residents used to bustle at the height of summer vacations say the streets are empty.
The city centre was almost deserted, and the seaside around the casino where leaders will meet is under a strict security cordon.
Cars are thoroughly checked and tourists can no longer access their usual haunts.
Philippe Haguet said the gift shop he owns has been empty for the past two days.
Leaders of the Group of Seven countries arrive on Saturday to discuss issues including the struggling global economy and climate change until Monday.
They include the United States, Germany, Japan, Britain, France, Canada and Italy.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here