The south is a world of light. Luminescent brightness is the first, clearest and most lasting impression it makes when you arrive, and its absence is what hits you when you go back north. For a painter, the challenge is somehow to evoke this world using colours and canvas. It’s …

Epicureanism evolved as a philosophy from the teachings of Epicurus who lived around 307 BC. The Epicurean view included friendship and living a virtuous and temperate life. What are some ways to lead a simple life? We love the idea of enjoying food, specifically food from our gardens. Learn more about Epicurus …

By Krista Bender   I just had a 5 course meal over four hours of wonderful conversation in this setting. I don’t know what could top my “happy place” than that! I pulled up to this Chateau which was set steep on the hillside. I was immediately taken with the …

When we travel, we usually shun hotels. Sure, there’s a lot to be said about room service and having someone make your bed every day, but with the advent of Airbnb, HomeAway, and other vacation rental websites, we’ve opened our eyes to a new way to live like locals.  Why …

Contributor blog post by Access Riviera: I really enjoy all the traditional festivals in France and it doesn’t matter when you visit the French Riviera you will always find some type of celebration or traditional event to attend. Traditional festivals here are based on historical re-enactments, patron saints, food (including …

Summer has been in full force on the French Riviera for many weeks now. One of my boys has been on holiday for 5 weeks and the other 2 weeks, but I’m only just beginning to find the time to make the most of it myself.  We’ve had scorching temperatures …

Had the Barefoot Blogger known lavender fields are so close to Uzes, and how fabulous they are in person, I would have been visiting them much before now. Thank goodness I found out how to get to some of the best fields this year. Unfortunately, a return visit isn’t possible …

The Debate One of the favourite pastimes of the Aixois is fervently discussing the town’s many qualities. They cite the climate, culture and architecture; rave about the shopping and surrounding countryside; and compare notes on their favourite Luberon village, Mediterranean beach, local wine and restaurant. When we first moved here, …

What is there better to do on a warm Summer Sunday than visit Cassis – 27 degrees forecast today, leave early, take a walk along the calanques, ( inland waterways with high cliff faces), be seated for lunch by 12.30 at one of the many port side restaurants, Explore this …

A.A. Milne may have made Eeyore famous in his Winnie-the-Pooh books, however in reality the hardworking donkey has been helping humans out for thousands of years. The equines family of horses, donkeys and zebras all has a long history.  There are even some prehistoric references.  The experts are divided as …