I rested my hands against the windowsill of van Gogh’s bedroom in the Maison de Santé Saint-Paul, an asylum in Saint-Rémy, and peered out at the painter’s Provence: rolling wheat fields bordered by olive trees, a purple-tinged mountain silhouette sweeping the horizon, a golden sun illuminating it all. I was mesmerized by this view, all the more knowing that Vincent van Gogh stood in this very ... Read Full Article
Favorite Towns of Provence and the Cote d’ Azur
Mmmm...imagine sunshine, the scent of lavender and rosemary, parasol pines, olive groves, sunflowers, and the Mediterranean...you are experiencing the South of France. But Provence and the Cote d'Azur offer much more than that. Think of hill towns, charming markets, art galleries, sailing, scuba diving, star-gazing (movie star, that is), swimming and soaking up the sun, and of course, fine French ... Read Full Article
A Drive Through Provence to See Roman Ruins
Highlights of a trip to Provence will usually include visits to wineries and ancient hilltop villages, as well as leisurely lunches – but there is another interesting side to this region of France. During a road trip through beautiful Provence, I learned that you don’t have to go to Rome to see some of the best-preserved Roman ruins. In fact, many of the most intact, ancient Roman ruins ... Read Full Article
Where to Stay in Arles, France: Editor’s Picks
Check-out our recommendations for where to stay in and around Arles from every price-point. We love Arles and find that this ancient town, set in the heart of Provence, to be a perfect place to immerse yourself in the essence of Provence. Home for a time to Van Gogh, you'll discover the warm colors and the architecture that he loved so much. Cobblestone streets will lead you to Roman ruins, art ... Read Full Article
Arles: a Must-See in Provence
When in Provence, be sure to spend at least a day or two in Arles and save a day for the Camargue. This small city, half the population of what it was in Roman times, is just teeming with Roman ruins and culture and the Camargue is a natural wonderland. Any visit to Arles should start with the Arènes (Roman Amphitheatre). It has one of the most well preserved Roman amphitheaters (1st ... Read Full Article
Shop the Markets of Provence and the Cote d’Azur
When in Provence, checking out the many street markets is a must. While in France we build our sightseeing around the markets. We get to the town early, visit the market and spend the rest of the day visiting the sights. The vendors at these markets are friendly and most will speak at least a little English. If not, you can use hand gestures to let them know what you want and how much. It ... Read Full Article