Postcards from our day-to-day life in Provence
It’s a fact of life isn’t it that you recall where you were when you first heard about a major event – I was in the cloakroom at school when I heard John Lennon had been shot; in the car driving to the Supermarket when I heard about Princess Diana’s death and then drinking tea … More Brexit – 2 years on
I have always loved gardens, although I have to admit to not being a great gardener myself. A summer garden with deep herbaceous borders, filled with the scent and colour of roses is always a delight and we have some delightful ones around us in the UK, such as this one at Coombe Trenchard just … More The incredible gardens at Valsaintes Abbey
Having arrived back in Provence a few of days ago I’ve been really surprised at how much things have changed in the last 5 weeks. First, and probably the biggest surprise, is that everything is looking incredibly lush and green. This a such a stark contrast to the bleached colours and dry fields and verges … More Poppies & Cherries – Provence has turned red.
This time last year I was writing about our first year in Provence, borrowing the title from Peter Mayle, who so sadly died earlier this year, having fuelled the dreams of so many people over the years (us included) with his wonderful stories of life in the Luberon. It’s hard to believe now that another … More Another year flies by in Provence
There is something wonderful about a traditional French market and over the years we’ve spent a considerable amount of time ambling around them in different towns across the Country.The lively Saturday Market in AptThe nice thing is that each area expresses its own identity through its markets – with the wonderful seafood stalls, full of … More 3 ‘Small but Perfectly Formed’ Provence markets
It’s now nearly 4 months since Millie, our Golden Retriever, arrived for her first visit to France & I think it’s fair to say she has settled in very quickly and already considers Provence as home. I admit that it didn’t start too well, with the first few days being taken up with the ‘War … More It’s a dog’s life in Provence – Part 2
In February there is an explosion of colour along the Cote D’Azur when the hillsides are fringed with yellow from the bright flowers of the Mimosa trees and the citrus fruits glow orange and yellow against the dark green leaves – it’s as if the plants are reminding us of the sun that is to … More Flowers, Lights & The King of Space – it’s Carnaval in Nice
Thinking back now, the end of February wasn’t really the best choice for our wedding – it was a cold, wet and ultimately snowy day (although wonderful of course) – and for the last 28 years we haven’t really had a long list of ways to celebrate – until now that is! Having the opportunity … More Bollywood in France -Incredible FĂŞte Du Citron at Menton
Since arriving back in the UK after Christmas it seems that it hasn’t stopped raining and most days we appear to have moved directly from dawn to dusk with what appears to be no actual sunlight in between. It just hasn’t got light and to be honest it’s felt as if we have been in … More Coming out of hibernation – February sun in ProvenceÂ
There’s something about travelling that is always a joy. Over the years we’ve come to enjoy the process of getting somewhere almost as much as the actual arrival. Even the 16hr solo drive that Andy tends to do has been much improved with Audible books that help pass the time…. Apparently a great improvement as … More From Exeter to Avignon – a day of 4 cities
Vaucluse Dreamer 