Living in Provence, France: A Feature Story on The Connexion

Since 2002, The Connexion has been a trusted English-language window into life in France. Its readers range from long-time residents to hopeful newcomers and curious property owners. Whether in print or online, The Connexion delivers stories on French news, travel, legal matters, taxes, and visas. Readers also find hands-on guides for navigating property, healthcare, and the everyday joys and challenges of living in France.

When I connected with Jessica Jones from The Connexion, winter had settled over the Canadian Rockies, casting long shadows and a chill in the air. Chatting about sun-drenched Provence felt like opening a window to warmth and colour. We explored my ties to southern France, the inspiration behind Perfectly Provence, and my enduring love for French culture. Here is a glimpse of her article following our conversation.

Two homes: one in Provence, one in the Rockies

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott and her husband split their time between France and Canada

In 2010, newly retired Canadians Carolyne Kauser-Abbott, 62, and her husband Andrew decided to spend part of the year travelling abroad.

France was an easy choice. Carolyne had travelled there as a child and spent five months working in Paris in 1989.

“I say that I left a piece of me in France,” she said.

An initial plan to stay for six months soon turned into a year, with the first half in Aix-en-Provence. In the second half, they found the gîte in the village of Eygalières they have come back to every year except during Covid.

“It feels like our home. It’s amazing,” said Carolyne.

The couple split their time between Canmore, Alberta, near Banff National Park, and Eygalières, in the Alpilles mountains, usually spending from July to early November in France.

“The area is well-known for hiking and cycling, climbing and outdoor activities. It’s rural, but you have these beautiful little villages,” said Carolyne.

Curious about what keeps them coming back to Provence year after year?

Please read The Connexion Article Here.

Perfectly Provence Backstory

When I started Perfectly Provence in 2014, I dreamed of weaving together a tapestry of connections across Provence and beyond. It was a time when social media felt lively but not overpowering, and local tourism tips were scattered across countless blogs. No matter when you discovered Perfectly Provence, the site has always been about bringing people together. For me, it has opened doors to inspiring friendships and unforgettable stories. The commitment to quality content and amplifying diverse voices remains at the heart of Perfectly Provence.

Full day Bandol & Cassis Discovery Wine Tour from Marseille

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).