David Scott Allen

David Scott Allen is the author, photographer, and cook behind Cocoa & Lavender, a weekly food blog based in Tucson, Arizona. Passionate about travel, he especially enjoys eating traditional foods and learning local customs, whether in the United States or around the globe.

David's first trip to France took place when he was 14, and he returned as often as possible thereafter. However, it wasn't until his 50th birthday that he finally made it south to Provence. The beauty, history, charm, warmth, cuisine, and - of course - the rosé wines captured his heart. He shares his Provençal recipes here on Perfectly Provence, and his food and wine pairings monthly on the Provence WineZine.

David is a firm believer that sharing a meal with friends around the table is one of life's greatest pleasures. And if it happens to be in Provence, all the better!

Why Art Lovers Need to Visit Provence: Cézanne 2025 Celebration

June 6, 2025

The following article highlights some Cézanne 2025 celebration events in Aix-en-Provence. Additionally, refer to the “reading list” for books that offer more detailed information on the famous artist and his life in Provence. A native of Aix-en-Provence, Paul Cézanne (1839 – 1906) became one of the most globally recognized post-impressionist painters. Almost 120 years after …

Christine van der Linden · Explore · Hans Zeegers · Provencal Recipes · Villages Towns and Cities

Antibes: A Timeless Treasure on the Côte d’Azur

June 5, 2025

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea’s azure waters and Provence’s rolling hills lies Antibes, a gem of the French Riviera that enchants visitors with its irresistible blend of history, art, and culinary traditions. A Journey Through the Centuries As you wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the old town, you are taking a journey through …

Inspire · Keith Van Sickle · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

Claude Monet at the Carrières des Lumières in Provence

June 3, 2025

The Carrières des Lumières (Quarry of Light) is one of the most remarkable venues in France—in fact, it was recently named THE most remarkable venue in France. It’s a must-see for any visitor to Provence. Described as “a magical sound and light show inside a mountain,” it features a new artist every year. This year’s …

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

2025 Summer Festivals in Provence and the Cote d’Azur

June 2, 2025

What’s on this summer in the South of France? Please note that some festivals open online ticketing early (in April or May) and sell out quickly. During the summer in Provence and the Côte d’Azur, daytime temperatures range from warm to hot. So, you don’t need an excuse to laze by the pool. The lavender …

Artists Inspired by Provence · Inspire · Keith Van Sickle

Vincent Van Gogh in St-Rémy-de-Provence

May 30, 2025

St-Rémy’s most famous former resident is undoubtedly Vincent van Gogh, who spent a year there as a mental patient after cutting off his ear in Arles. While in St-Rémy, he painted several masterpieces, including Irises and The Starry Night. The place where Van Gogh was interned, Saint-Paul de Mausole, has recently been refurbished. So, you …

Artists Inspired by Provence · Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire

L’Espace Entre Deux: An Unmissable Art Exhibition in Eygalières, Provence

May 28, 2025

From June 7 to 22, 2025, in the Alpilles village of Eygalières, the 12th-century Église St Laurent comes alive, hosting ‘L’Espace Entre Deux.’ This exhibition, ‘The Space in Between’, showcases the creativity of 20 acclaimed UK artists, captivating art lovers with a stunning array of portraiture and figurative works. Collaborative Art Curated by Nicky Ginsberg …

David Scott Allen · Main Course · Poultry · Provencal Recipes · Taste

My Chicken Ispahan Recipe – Inspired by Pierre Hermé’s French Pastry

May 26, 2025

It may seem strange, but I am not a café au lait fan. However, a hot chocolate (chocolat chaud) in Paris with a beautiful pastry called an Ispahan – now that is a magical French experience. Pierre Hermé created the dessert for Ladurée, the finest purveyor of macarons in Paris (in my humble opinion). It …

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Villefranche-sur-Mer Gem 1-bedroom holiday rental

Le Petit Bijou is a 1-bedroom apartment on Villefranche's waterfront. The apartment is fully outfitted, ideal for a Riviera holiday.

Côte d’Azur (French Riviera)
One Bedroom

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Rental Home in Crillon-le-Brave for 6 People

Designed for indoor-outdoor living, Villa Armajeva has three spacious bedrooms and all the modern comforts for a family vacation. Enjoy the views from any one of the terraces. The Crillon-le-Brave village centre is steps from this lovely home.

Vaucluse
Three Bedrooms

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3 Rental Apartments Near Aix-en-Provence

La Bastide des Amandiers has 3 self-contained apartments. The layout provides plenty of privacy and different spaces. A perfect place to spend time in the Luberon.

Luberon
Vaucluse
One Bedroom

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Charming 18th-Century Farmhouse with Bed and Breakfast Rooms

Mas le Jas is a beautifully appointed Provençal farmhouse with two (2) comfortable bed and breakfast guest rooms. The Mas (farmhouse) is just a few minutes from the centre of Cavaillon.

Luberon
Vaucluse
Bed and Breakfast

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Large Property Near Aix - Ferme du Val

Ferme du Val is a spacious seven (7) bedroom home, including a studio apartment that sleeps, 14 people. Available for short or long-term rental.

Bouches du Rhone
Seven Bedrooms

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Provence Marketplace

Hand-Crafted Decorative Ceramic Sunflowers

Available in six (6) different colours these durable ceramic sunflowers are suitable for indoor or outdoor settings. Made by hand in Uzès by Maison Pichon these sunflowers are sold individually. Maison Pichon is an artisanal French ceramics manufacturer since 1802.

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Lavender Field Sachet from Provence

Filled with organic lavender from France this version of L'AUGUSTE Provence sachets features a flowering lavender field. These sachets make great gifts as decorative objects with a lovely fragrance.

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Makeup Bags and Travel Kits in Provencal Designs

Available in several different patterns and 3 sizes these makeup bags are constructed with quilted fabrics and made to last. Made in Provence by an artisanal textile manufacturer. Choose a pattern that you like and buy the matching set.

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Photo: Lavender Fields in Provence

Whether or not you have seen the lavender fields in Valensole, this panorama will transport you to a magical place in Provence. Photo by François de Melogue, a talented chef and photographer. Available in a choice of sizes and different paper stock.

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French Linen Napkins Fresh Herb Design 100% Linen

My French Country Home brings the beauty and fragrance of a French herb garden to your home with this Fine Herbs Linen napkins. Designed with an elegant display of the most beloved culinary herbs, these napkins add a fresh, botanical charm to any dining setting. Sold as a set of six (6) designs and made with 100% high-quality linen.

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Jacquard Cotton Tea Towels Basil Design

These jacquard cotton tea towels with a basil design are made in Provence. Remember Provence selected the manufacturer for the high quality, absorbent fabric that is also quick-drying. Perfect for any kitchen or as a hostess gift. Sold in sets of three (3).

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Beeswax Candles in a Traditional Pillar Shape

Handcrafted in Apis Cera's workshop in Provence, Ambroise is a 100% pure beeswax candle pillar produced in a custom mold. A cylindar-shaped candle gets it's name from Saint Ambrose (c. 340 – 397), the archbishop of Milan, who was the protector of beekeepers. Sold in a set of two (2) candles they burn for approximately 36 hours.

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Liquid Bath Soap from Provence

Made in Provence with olive oil and perfumed with an exclusive Rose et Marius fragrance. Use this liquid soap in your next shower. The summery scent of orange blossoms and Turkish rose essence is created in Grasse. These refillable, paraben-free liquid soaps are found in beautiful 5* hotels and top-quality restaurants.

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Fall Recipes and Menu Collection

Featuring 25 recipes from the South of France for cooler fall weather along with menu suggestions, all designed to make your cooking experience enjoyable. These multi-course menus are a celebration of Provence and its seasonal ingredients. We encourage you to try these dishes, create your own menus, and enjoy your culinary creations this autumn.

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Download Our Fall Menu Collection

David Scott Allen

Why Art Lovers Need to Visit Provence: Cézanne 2025 Celebration

Antibes: A Timeless Treasure on the Côte d’Azur

Claude Monet at the Carrières des Lumières in Provence

2025 Summer Festivals in Provence and the Cote d’Azur

Vincent Van Gogh in St-Rémy-de-Provence

L’Espace Entre Deux: An Unmissable Art Exhibition in Eygalières, Provence

My Chicken Ispahan Recipe – Inspired by Pierre Hermé’s French Pastry

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