Ras El Hanout is a spice blend essential to Moroccan cooking and critical for a traditional lamb and chicken couscous recipe. The name translated literally means ‘head of the shop’ for which actual mixtures vary, and in some cases, maybe closely guarded family secrets.

It has been almost two decades since Anne-Marie Simons and her husband Oscar decided to uproot their Washington, D.C. lifestyle and spend their retirement years in the South of France. They eliminated other alternatives (continents, countries and cities) and chose Aix-en-Provence for its “quality of life.” The city’s attractive combination …

In September 2016, Jill Paider and Tasha Powell embarked on a journey from Los Angeles to the Auberge La Fenière in Provence. This artistic team (please read their bios below) packed their camera equipment and developed a photo shot list for the assignment. Their mission was to portray the essence …

Certified Sommelier at 21-years old Youngest Wine Director in a Michelin-starred restaurant (globally) Ruinart Champagne Sommelier Challenge NY 2015 Winner Wine & Spirits Best New Sommeliers of 2016 “Drink Pink a Celebration of Rosé” published in May 2017 With all that Victoria James has accomplished at 26 years old one starts …

There is nothing more fun than discovering a new local expert who likes to share their “insider’s knowledge.” We recently connected with The Monaco Reporter. Celina Lafuente de Lavotha is originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina known for Tango, Football, Polo, excellent meat and warm hospitality, and very proud of having recently …

We have been to Grignan in the Drôme Provençale several times, an area that falls between the Rhône River and the Alps north of the Vaucluse. So when we were in Sablet last fall with friends Steve and Mary, we took a day trip to Grignan and ate lunch at …

You would be forgiven for thinking that Paris is the best place to experience French food. However, surprisingly many would argue against such a claim. While it is at the forefront, and to some extent the gateway to French cuisine for the average traveler, there are many other wonderful food hubs …

For over a century the striking Hotel Negresco has been the favourite holiday destination for celebrities, royalty, millionaires, and politicians. This magnificent belle-époque building, instantly recognizable by its pink domed roof, stands proudly on the promenade des Anglais in Nice. The hotel celebrated its centennial in 2013. Five centuries of …

Our village, like many in southern France, has a semi-permanent population; one of the first questions asked on being introduced is whether or not we are here all year round. A fairly cosmopolitan atmosphere is enjoyed here, particularly throughout the summer months, evident at the annual 14th July celebrations opposite …

Summer is still here! With the hot weather, the options for outdoor activities expand as attractions and sightseeing operators open for the season. However, some of the best family-friendly activities are free and right on our doorstep! Around 40 minutes’ drive from where I live is the start of the …