Fascinated with France since her childhood, Raina Stinson visited the country for the first time in 2014. That trip was a career turning point for this long-time nurse from Portland, Oregon. Shortly after that journey, she decided to take early retirement and combine her two passions, portrait photography and the …

A Guest Post: Is there anyone who would not dream of visiting Provence? Just think about this region and images of lavender fields, the azure sea, and market produce appear in your head. Provence is just as you imagine! It is worth noting that Provence is not a cheap tourist …

Jen and Chris Mallon are British transplants. They sold everything in 2018 and moved from England to Apt in the South of France. It was a quick move they decided to relocate in June and arrived in France at the end of September. They left their jobs, sold a house, …

Spring Events in Provence Spring in Provence is absolutely lovely. As is the case with most of the year, the sun shines brightly, but expect the odd rainstorm. Moisture in this period is critical for the grapes, olives, and almonds to start their growing cycles. In March and April, expect …

Provence is known for its landscapes, famous artists, food markets, and culture. Perhaps by default, the region is less recognized for its designers, artisans and craftsmanship. Whether you are searching for a unique gift for someone special, or yourself, there is a wealth of artistic talent in the region.  Made …

By Caroline Longstaffe Provencal Antiques Sunday morning is market day in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Known throughout Europe for its astounding array of antique shops, alongside its’ conventional Provencal market, this charming town also hosts an incredible Sunday antique market. Just 39km from Lourmarin, the pretty drive through the Luberon Valley takes about …

By Michel As I told you in my last post, we went to Carpentras to visit the historical Jewish synagogue built in 1367. Since most shops and tourist sites close during lunch hour, we joined the locals and headed to our favourite restaurant. Our go-to restaurant in Carpentras is Chez Serge, …

Last week Andy and I were sitting at Menerbes overlooking the view when two people on electric bikes pulled up beside us and were trying to identify the villages on the hills opposite. We got chatting, and they explained that they had just hired the bikes and one said how …

By Vaucluse Dreamer: Yesterday Andy and I sat in the Artisan Bakery on The Quay in Exeter, raising a cup of coffee to celebrate the 3 years since we signed the papers and picked up the keys to our long-dreamed-for house in Provence. Of course we would have rather been …

Provencal Dreams Come True My most ardent life dream has always been to live and teach art in France. Just like my favourite art masters, many of my creative inspirations have come from my art sabbaticals to Europe. I fell in love with France at a young age, my very …