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Provence Revisited

Day 14IconRae

ProvenceMtn

When we were younger we were quite scornful of folk who holidayed in the same place year after year – where were their imaginations? However, we now enjoy revisiting happy holiday locations. We particularly enjoy being in Provence, either in small towns or little villages.

AuberneHouse

We love buying fresh produce from markets and learning how to prepare traditional Provençal fare from enthusiastic stall- holders. We salivate at the sight of local cheeses, prepared meats and freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. Local eateries and the local wines are also greatly appreciated.

LocalEateries

Being immersed in the culture of a place, travelling on their public transport and observing the people all adds to the richness of the experience. We find that our efforts of speaking French are appreciated so we consciously try to avoid speaking English when we are out and about. It is surprising how much our French improves!

Bus

 

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Bread and Wine

Days 9 to 13IconRae

 

World travel can offer up wonderful experiences and memories; a reason we enjoy travelling so much. Gray’s brother had met Philippe who lives in the Bordeaux region of France, the previous year and was keen that we all meet up with him on this trip.

Bakery

Philippe is a baker, but not just any baker; he bakes bread exactly the same way his grandfather did many, many years ago. His breads are delicious. Eating his baking straight from the oven is an unforgettable pleasure.

PhilippeAtOven

His life is centred round his bakery. His daily sleep and work routine would not suit everyone, but he is always cheerful and happy to talk about his life and livelihood.

Bread_Cakes

Philippe and his wife have carefully restored a family home that had been left to abandoned in the family vineyard. The plentiful cellar made us realise that the vines outside, bulging with ripe grapes, are important to this family, too.

PhilippesHouse

It is now early autumn, so whilst we were drinking beautiful Bordeaux wine and nibbling on scrumptious French food, outside in the evening sunshine, it was easy to imagine what life could be like if this was home!!