For many, Peter Mayle’s best-selling novel A Year in Provence was their introduction to the Provencal countryside. Images of the Côte d’Azur have long covered the pages of travel magazines. Still, it was Mayle’s descriptions of bumbling through a home renovation in the arrière-pays (translation: backcountry or hinterland) that shifted our …

It is less of an issue in France, where typical grocery store packaging might include two chicken breasts, six sausages, four steaks, but in the United States, everything is “supersized” I end up with bits and pieces in my freezer.  The good news is that cleaning out my fridge is …

Contributor blog post by Paula Kane: I have a system, and for a decade it’s been running like clockwork. It’s an excellent plan, and one I am rather attached to. I look forward to it, like a ritual.  Although some people think I am a bit of a gypsy and rather …

Suspended across from the mighty Mont Ventoux is a village that can only be described as jaw-droppingly stunning, as it is surrounded by breathtaking Alpine scenery and filled with rustic charm. Brantes has been on my list for years to visit, as it was described as a place of total …

As summer segues into fall, I cannot help but hope summer will linger on just a bit longer. It’s not the Pacific Northwest’s impending rainy season or even the imminent cold weather that I fear, it’s just that no other season expresses Provence more succinctly. Fall in Provence Summer is …

This recipe for lentil soup with sausage, lots of vegetables and a hint of sweet paprika is a filling meal for lunch or dinner. Bundle up and enjoy the change of seasons.

Le Musée de Savon de Marseille MuSaMa opened in mid-March (2018) near the Vieux Port. This museum, boutique and workshop are dedicated to safeguarding the reputation of Savon de Marseille. The vision of the museum’s founders is to educate visitors about the vrai (real) Savon de Marseille, its eco-friendly ingredients, …

Often, as the weather turns cooler the tendency is towards warm, slow-cooked meals, and roasted meats. These menus beg for a table of good friends and great wine. However, you don’t want the meal to be too “heavy” this tasty combination of autumn vegetables – marinated mushroom and roast pumpkin salad – is a perfect starter course

French Lessons welcomes Rachael for the second year running as our annual guest contributor. Last summer, she explained how she dealt with her impounded car at the local fourrière (pound). This year her automotive theme continues, as does her – ahem – fast wit. A few months ago, I was …

If you haven’t seen a techno-fabulous French light show, you’re in for a treat. The French take lights and action to new dimensions: music, drama and imagination. Carrières de Lumières A recent visit to Carrières de Lumières was my third experience to see the digital, immersive events that are staged in a …