Sonja Kuikstra is a naturopath, author, the mother of three children and the founder of Nature4You. Born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Sonja now lives in the Luberon Valley in Provence. Her awareness of natural beauty products and cosmetics started in her twenties. The realities of living with Crohn’s disease gravitated …

The label Jardin remarquable (Remarkable Garden) started in 2004 to celebrate and document France’s magnificent gardens. A Jardin Remarquable must meet the established criteria. The requirements include integration in the site, an interesting blend of vegetation, quality of the location, engaging use of plants and, where applicable, provide historical interest. …

French cuisine is known for its delicate pastries and desserts. However, light, flaky pastry also complements a savoury tart perfectly! This recipe is similar to a classic French quiche. Serve this tart warm or at room temperature. Make Rose’s leek tart for lunch and serve with a green salad, or …

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 …

If you decide to visit Provence, you need a guide on its worth-see touristic places. In the article, we will guide you through the most worthwhile and unforgettable places. Let’s Explore Provence Have you ever been to Paris? Do you want to experience the beauty of the country and visit …

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 …

Almost indescribable, the scent of a fig tree full of almost ripe fruit is a fragrance that is both sweet and earthy, it’s summer in Provence. The scent is distinctive, almost arresting in the open air, however, in a closed space can be overwhelming. And, you can eat too many! …

Ice cream is exquisite. What a pity it isn’t illegal. ~ Voltaire* Susan Gish writes for Aixcentric: Sam and I had a really tough assignment over the summer doing the research for this article (she said sarcastically). But someone has to do it, so instead of worrying about getting rid …

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 …

After leaving Aix-en-Provence and its busy neighbourhoods, the winding road descends through a forest of pine trees and cork-oaks. After a 15km drive, at the bottom of a small valley, the eye catches a glimpse of metallic silver reflections. You have arrived at Château La Coste. Impressive concrete gates (from superstar …