Much has been written about Vincent Van Gogh’s life, the famous Dutch painter who led an expressive, tortured life. This statue le voleur de tournesol (the Sunflower Thief) by Gabriel Sterk may just capture the essence of Van Gogh’s work – as you never quite look at sunflowers, irises, olive trees …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker The photo is just an example of the great mix of treasures you’ll find at Carpentras. The Sunday antique market at Carpentras is my favourite weekly antique market. As you may already know, the town of Isle sur la Sorgue is the king of …

Contributor blog post by Aixcentric: The Hotel Caumont in Aix en Provence is hosting a session on Street Art on Saturday December 12th. Four artists, French and American, will be discussing their sources of inspiration and also their different techniques. Following the conference, the artists will be taking part in …

Are you a spelling bee champion? Or, do you rely on spell check once in a while? Are you a grammar pro? Perfecting your mother tongue is not easy! Even French speakers will admit that learning French can be frustrating… What is the word for ___? How do you conjugate …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker: December is upon us! I haven’t even begun my Christmas shopping. Oh my… The Christmas markets have already started here in Provence but now it’s getting serious. Stacks of foie gras and artian chocolates are piled high in the grocery stores, the smell of …

Contributor blog post by Aixcentric: Two unmissable carol concerts at the Cathedral, one international and one very Swedish! The annual international concert will be held on Saturday 6th December. It’s hugely popular so get there well before the 16:00 start if you want a seat. Carols, candles and happiness guaranteed! …

With its sobering history the story of the incredible Malpasset Dam that ruptured on December 2, 1959 killing 421 is definitely worth a visit if you are near Fréjus. For a relaxing drive through an uncrowded part of Provence the Vallee de Jabron in Haute Provence has stunning vistas with …

Contributor blog post by Aixcentric: Christmas in Aix is lovely; the colourful lights, the busy markets, the crowds rushing round the shops and watching the children’s rides all make the festive season in Provence so special. Here is the new Aix magazine which has full details: Aixmagazine_site In brief, these …

The game of pétanque, sometimes called boules is a form of religion in Provence. Most villages have an official or unofficial boules pitch. The more elaborate centres will even have a “clubhouse” offering refreshments. The word pétanque is Provencal in origin from the word petanca, which means “feet anchored”. The game in its’ …

Contributor blog post by Phoebe Thomas: We are experiencing the most wonderful autumn in the South of France.  For several weeks now the mercury has been hitting the 20s, with a high of 28°c last week!  November is often lovely on the French Riviera but these temperatures are even higher …