“It certainly had some scary moments.”  That was le fils Aixcentric’s take on the Via Ferrata in Cavaillon, even though he’s tried them out in the Alps.  Meaning ‘iron way,’ a Via Ferrata is a series of scrambles along the mountainside linked by metal ladders, hand-holds, bridges and ropes. The …

France’s second-largest city – Marseille – had an image problem, not helped by its setting for gangster and crime movies. But ask any local this city is pure magic. Situated on the Mediterranean, Marseille residents can swim at their favourite beach before work and watch the sunset at another with …

The term “Madeleine” was used to describe a small cake in the 18th century and is now synonymous with France and its delicate desserts. There are many different ways to prepare madeleines, and they are a great treat to have on hand when inviting friends over for tea. This recipe …

I discovered some interesting information online about a dig that has been progressing on the opposite bank of the Rhône River (from Arles), at Trinquetaille. Underneath an 18th-century glassworks, now a ‘monument historique,’ they have uncovered a group of Roman houses, many with mosaic floors.  The fresco in the illustration …

After the pandemic hit in 2020, I began doing Zoom demos of my favourite international recipes. The classes include a selection of French, Moroccan and Italian dishes. I quickly realized that it was a great way to stay connected with the culinary world and clients of Pitcher & Powell who …

France is full of enchanting villages, and among the approximately 30,000 communes, there are undoubtedly thousands of beautiful ones. However, officially there are exactly 159 Plus Beaux Villages de France – 159 most beautiful villages of all. But how can there be such a precise figure? Easy! This is not …

Carrières de Lumières, the former quarry now a centre for immersive art displays, has announced its theme for 2021, and it’s one that should prove popular with the Aixois. The 2021 show, at Les Baux de Provence, will be a celebration of the work of Paul Cezanne. This show’s design …

Have you ever done a basic search about books set in Provence? If so, it is quite possible that Peter Mayle was one of the first names to pop up, and for good reason. This is the man who is responsible for ultra-famous books such as A Year In Provence, …

The way 2020 has unfolded, it’s time to devote some energy and focus on your wellbeing. We are thrilled to announce a giveaway with two of our partners, based in Aix-en-Provence, Audrey Archambault (Nutrition and Wellness Coach) and Rose et Marius (luxury perfume brand). The giveaway runs until October 7, …

Another Beautiful Village Friends and others headed to Provence often ask where they should go during their once-in-a-lifetime visit to Provence. It is a hard question as most visitors have only six (6) days since they usually arrive on Saturday afternoon and depart the following Saturday morning; there are so …