It sounds so cliché to talk about the abundant produce and fabulous markets in Provence, but the region is an absolute gift to culinary types—a present where no wrapping is required, just a shopping basket and some inspiration. The seasons in Provence are marked by two things: the variety of …

One could say that Lyon is at the intersection of France. Lyon is France’s third-largest city after Paris and Marseille. Located almost in the country’s centre, the drive from Marseille takes a little over 3 hours and 4.5 from Paris. However, the travel time is cut considerably on the train …

Before spending time in Provence, I had never heard of a buyer’s agent. To a North American with the benefits of a transparent residential real estate market, the concept seemed vague and excessive. In Canada, we have Multiple Listing Services (MLS) which serves two purposes; “Unilateral offer of compensation by a …

There is no question that the food in Provence ranks highly in culinary circles for its “farm-to-table” style. The Mediterranean climate and arable soil are favourable towards the popular “eat local” philosophy. Produce found at authentic farmers’ markets follows the seasons, and fresh fruit arrives in waves during the harvest …

Expat living is not for the faint of heart. Surrounded by a new environment, comfortable routines are gone, and even mundane daily tasks require extra consideration and effort. Where to grocery shop? What are the best schools? What about health care? Add a foreign language and different cultural norms to …

Occasionally, there are opportunities to connect with contributors in person, outside of “Perfectly Provence.” This week was one of those times. Provencal Connections in California On what was a bit like speed dating trip in Southern California my hubby and I drove to San Diego for one evening. The hook for …

Launched in 2013, Locat’Me is a web-based apartment search service concept. The three founders’ vision was to solve a persistent rental market headache. The problem of landlords  looking for good tenants and renters are seeking an accommodation that meets their needs and their budgets. This Internet platform matches a renters’ profile to …

The Citroën 2CV car with its roll-top roof is one of the classic images of France, almost as iconic as a Frenchman wearing a beret and carrying a baguette. Between 1948 and 1990, Citroën produced 3.8 million 2CV, also known as the “deux chevaux” (two horsepower). The car was designed …

Paul Shore is a Canadian with a taste for adventure and a flair for writing. Some 20-years ago, he jumped at a work opportunity to live as an expat near the French Riviera. He chose to rent a place in the hill-top village of Saint Paul de Vence. The town …

Enchanting image galleries of Provence flood the Internet. The region is like a pretty girl with an extensive wardrobe, endless photos of lavender fields, market produce, chilled rosé and turquoise swimming pools. The mild Mediterranean climate is a magnet for holiday goers seeking a chance to relax in the sun. …