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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Little Santons Play a Big Role in Provence’s Christmas Traditions

November 20, 2023

In Provence, at Christmastime, there are many holiday traditions, including nativity scenes with Santons (little saints). Santons are little clay figurines depicting the biblical characters – baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the Wisemen. Anyone expecting the “typical” nativity scenario might be surprised by the Provencal version with figures representing the butcher, baker, fishmonger, sheep herder

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Artists Inspired by Provence · Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire

Our List: Museums and Places to see Art in Provence

November 9, 2023

Where to See Art in Provence In a place that inspired so many famous artists, including Paul Cezanne, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Nicolas de Stael, among countless others, there is no lack of opportunities to see art in Provence. We have compiled a list of places to see permanent and temporary

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Provencal Recipes · Villages Towns and Cities

The Best of Marseille City Highlights For Visitors

October 11, 2023

Not helped by its setting for gangster and crime movies, France’s second-largest city, Marseille, used to have an image problem. However, 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 over the water with a glass of pastis.

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Villages Towns and Cities

French Riviera 10 Places to See During your Stay

September 21, 2023

Whether this is your first trip to the French Riviera or you are a regular visitor to the Côte d’Azur, the only problem is overwhelming choices. Where should you start? In alphabetical order, we have highlighted ten (10) of our favourite places to visit along (or near) the coast. However, this is just a start.

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Art Guide: Where to See Art in Provence

August 12, 2023

Some of the famous artists who painted in the sunny South include Paul Cézanne, Marc Chagall, Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Paul Gauguin, Auguste Renoir, and Nicolas de Staël. In a letter to his brother Theo, the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter Vincent Van Gogh wrote of his surprise at the bright colour palette and scenery in

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Marseille City Guide for Visitors

July 21, 2023

Because Marseille is unlike any other city in France or the world, and with a history spanning over 2600 years, there is no shortage of things to discover. On the shores of the Mediterranean, you get the best of the city and beach in one place. In Marseille, you feel simultaneously on both sides of

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Gites in Provence · Rental & Self-Catered Properties in Provence · Stay: Accommodation & Rentals in Provence

Holiday Rentals in Provence: What is a Gîte?

June 12, 2023

Customs and terminology can be confusing in a foreign country, and France is no exception. North Americans and other international travellers might not understand (or search for) terms like gîte, mazet, chambres d’hôtes, or hôtel de charme. What is a Gîte? A gîte is a terrific option for holiday rentals in rural France for short-term

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