Book Review: Adventures on Land and Sea by Carole Bumpus

The adventures begin in 1997 when Carole and Winston Bumpus visit Provence for the first time with two other couples. Their stay in a remote village in the Var provides a flavour of Provencal life away from the crowds and enough of a taste of the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera. That trip was enough inspiration for two more trips to the region. The first was a culinary adventure with her sister Melody, and the final trip, in 2006, was a maritime voyage with “Captain” Winston and some friends. ADVENTURES ON LAND AND SEA: Searching for Culinary Pleasures in Provence and the Cote d’Azur is a delightful memoir that anyone who has visited or hopes to see the region will enjoy. For those who enjoy cooking, the book contains a few Provencal recipes.

About the Author

Carole Bumpus, a seasoned writer focused on food and travel, began her journey after discovering the fascinating stories of women and war in France. Her historical novel, A Cup of Redemption, and the companion cookbook, Recipes for Redemption (https://amzn.to/3Tl65si), testify to her expertise. The Savoring the Olde Ways Series: Searching for Family and Traditions at the French Table Books One & Two and A September to Remember: Searching for Culinary Pleasures at the Italian Table further showcases her diverse interests. Her latest book, ADVENTURES ON LAND AND SEA: Searching for Culinary Pleasures in Provence and the Cote d’Azur, was published in November 2024. She is a member of the National Women’s Book Association, National Association of Memoir Writers, and The California Writers Club, through which she was honoured with the Ina Coolbrith Award for years of service to the entire 2,200-member organization. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Book Review

Inspired by Peter Mayle’s descriptions of Provence’s arrière pays (countryside), Carole Bumpas and her husband Winston visit Provence for the first time in 1997. They are joined by two other couples, Carole’s sister (Melody), brother-in-law (Dan), and friends Bob and Shirley. Their base was Claviers, a well-preserved hilltop village in the Var that feels far removed from the glitz and glamour of the famous French Riviera cities. Over two weeks, they explored the Mediterranean coastline and the Alpes Maritimes. Hardly sitting still during their trip, they explore the coastal town of Fréjus with its Roman Ruins, drive around the spectacular Gorges du Verdon, sunbathe in St Tropez, and much more. Alas, two weeks ended too quickly, but with plenty of memories.

In 2000, Carole returned to the region with Melody for a gastronomic tour with Sharon Shipley, a chef and culinary expert from Sunnyvale, California. The ladies begin their trip with a few days in Paris before joining other group tour members in Marseille. Their first stop was La Bastide de Moustiers, an Alain Ducasse property with gorgeous rooms and Michelin* food. The group would visit gastronomic venues for the next few days, roll up their sleeves for cooking classes, and enjoy the food and wine that make Provence famous.

The final trip in ADVENTURES ON LAND AND SEA: Searching for Culinary Pleasures in Provence and the Cote d’Azur takes place in June 2006. Winston returns to the region this time, and they embark on a sailing voyage along the coast with two other couples. Adventures and a few misadventures have the “Grande Crew” of the “Grand Cru” visiting famous Côte d’Azur ports. Beginning the maritime journey from Nice’s Old Port, they visit St. Jean Ferrat, Cannes, St Tropez, Port Cros, and Porquerolles.

Where to Buy the Book

ADVENTURES ON LAND AND SEA: Searching for Culinary Pleasures in Provence and the Cote d’Azur is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major book retailers. Several of Carole’s books are also available in audio versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy her captivating stories.

Visit Carole Bumpus online to learn more at CaroleBumpus.com.