One of the joys of visiting Provence is visiting local artisans and learning about ancient crafts, still practiced and relevant today. Lavender Wands In Les Baux de Provence, Elsa Lenthal has reignited the age-old art of “fuseaux de lavandes” (lavender wands). Perhaps because replicating an old-fashioned fuseau de lavande is …

There’s something special about entertaining during the holidays, especially for those who love playing host or hostess. So whether you have brunch, lunch or dinner guests, it’s festive to break out the best china, silverware, and crystal to honour your guests and celebrate your friendship—the French refer to creating a …

There is no question that my heart is equally split between France and Italy, which is why I run small-group Goût et Voyage tours in both Provence and Tuscany. The scenery is similar, yet architectural and cultural differences make travel in both locations pure joy. However, when it comes to …

December is a festive time in Provence. At this time of the year, outdoor and indoor market stalls brim with hearty meats, fowl, shellfish, and winter vegetables. I hope you enjoy this Festive Holiday Dinner Menu with my favourite, and slightly decadent, dishes – foie gras, duck confit and chocolate …

There is something deliciously decadent about a chocolate dessert. So, this Chocolate Mousse fits the bill perfectly, it’s easy to make, and your guests will love the extra effort. This easy recipe was adapted from "Around My French Table" by Dorie Greenspan. Enjoy chocolate mousse as the finale for your …

While we plan our late 2021 and 2022 travel, why not escape to sunny Provence, Portugal or Spain for a few hours? Let’s start with a giveaway! Last call for your chance to win a copy of our Festa Italiana cookbook – Enter here. Chef and cookbook author Letizia will …

If you have a vegetable garden or visit a farmer’s market regularly you know that there comes a time when zucchini plentiful. And, the question becomes what to do with the bounty. The recipe below for zucchini bread is a sweet, quick loaf that is a perfect treat with a …

Regardless of location, there is probably nothing I like more than visiting a farmer’s market in the summer. However, if I were honest the daily Provencal marchés and Italian mercatos have a certain amount of charm that our local market lacks. However, with travel restrictions this year, I have been …

Sadly, due to the Covid-19 outbreak, so many travellers have had to cancel their spring and early-summer vacations to France. Although we, too, have had to cancel our Goût et Voyage May/June 2020 Taste of Provence trips, I’m spending this valuable “free time” planning for winter 2020 and spring 2021. …

French Holiday Traditions In France, La Chandeleur falls on the 40th day of the Christmas Epiphany season on February 2nd. Also known as Candlemas, this holiday is celebrated in Provence with the making – and eating – of crêpes. La Chandeleur is the culmination of the Calendale, the festive holiday …