Provence Tayl's

A perfect walk in the January sunshine

2012-01-14T18:38:00.000+01:00

The fabulous weather continues and whilst temperatures at night have been falling to minus 6, by day we are warmed by clear skies and bright sunshine.

We took a walk today, starting at home, walking to the village and up to the chateau which is at the head of the village.Here is the view, above to the South East and below over the Church in the village.

We are walking with Eero, our Finnish friend, and about to make that important decision - which route do we take!

All of our properties are equipped with maps for hikes and walking.

The routes vary in length and difficulty. There are plenty for all ages and fitness!

Most importantly they are well marked and quite easy to follow (with Eero leading!)

This is the chateau at the top of Saint Saturnin, but from the West, and a view we have not seen before in 6 years! With the Luberon behind it is stunning.

A slightly wider perpective.

We stumbled across a rather cute tiny Borie.

And a slightly larger one!

We also came across this site of stone statues - some one has been before us!

This picnic table must warrant best view in France!

Just to confirm I was there!

One of the many stone and wood structures you will come across.

This 11KM walk took us less than three hours door to door and is certainly to be recommended.

If you enjoy walking, Hiking or cycling we are perfectly situated.

www.accommodationinprovence.com

lunch out in January

2012-01-10T12:23:00.000+01:00

Many of our regular visitors have met Karen's Mum Joan who has just spent New Year with us and staying as always to celebrate her birthday on the 8th.

And being such a beautiful January day we headed off to the coast, stopping briefly on route at the famous Gordes viewing platform where there are spectacular views over the Luberon valley.

Cassis is about two hours drive from home, and it was a hive of activity.

In fact, absolutely buzzing!

A more tranquil view of the boats in the harbour.

We had a really good casual lunch in this restaurant, Le Perroquet, great service and open all afternoon for lunch, quite unusual in France.

First one of the day!

The ladies considering whether to dip their toes in the sea!

Cassis has a very active Boules club which you can watch in the warm winter sun.

Slightly later in the day, pre lunch drinks have changed to afternoon tea or Rose!

On the beach in January!

It really is a fabulous time of the year to holiday in Provence!

The housing market

2012-01-05T11:35:00.000+01:00

With all the euro gloom around it is re assuring to learn that the housing market is showing signs of continued activity.

This much photographed house in the centre of the village has just changed hands,

it dates to 1542 and as well as going up 3 levels from the street it goes down 3 levels beneath with evidence of animal shelters, hiding places and possibly a tunnel to neighbouring houses.

Weather, weather, weather!

2012-01-02T17:07:00.000+01:00

It is well known the brits love to talk about the weather!

And so here are some statistics to help you decide when is best for your holiday.

Remember though, no two years may be the same!

July had some unusually cool nights.

Our rainfall, 36% of our rain fell in November, in fact much of that on one day! The total for the year was 515 mm compared to the 800 mm that fell in the South of England in 2011!

A New Year begins - but lets just look back a moment!

2012-01-01T19:10:00.000+01:00

Here we are on November 19th, our Olives having already been picked , we had the time free to go walking in the warm Autumn sunshine.

My sister Gillian is a regular visitor and helper!

Marion, who works with my sister and her husband Kevin, have stayed in Le Chene, Les Cypres and our gites and now come for Olive picking in November.

After a 10 kilometre walk to Travignon, a deserted village we deserved our beer!

And so after a year full of clients and friends visiting we take a break to Egypt for a nile cruise.

This is something Karen had wanted to do as part of her 'special' birthday year celebrations.

We started in Cairo, which despite the problems was an amazing city and of course first visit was to the Pyramids.

The scenery is quite mind blowing!

Our home for the week cruising the Nile, the Amber.

We travelled with Bales who we cannot recommend strongly enough!

One of the many temples we visited.

At Luxor Temple

Hot air ballooning over the Valley of the Kings

Incredible views.

Another temple!

It was a seriously good trip and one we would really recommend.

We were back in Provence for Christmas, Martin was here, the weather was perfect, we even played boules on Christmas day!

I recall I won!

We visited Marseille , again another sunny day, December 27th!

The Christmas markets were full of stalls selling the very popular Santons, enabling you to create your own Nativity scene

Meanwhile at home we have been enjoying amazing sun rises

and equally breathtaking sun rise!

Best of all lunch out side in December.

So if you are looking to escape a cloudy UK or Northern Europe why not spend winter in Provence

arguably even better than summer!

Blue skies, warm sunshine, peace and quiet.Bliss.

We wish you a happy new Year .

Wonderful Autumn Weather

2011-11-25T18:09:00.000+01:00

Like may parts of Europe we are enjoying wonderful Autumn sunshine.

The mornings are cold, dry and crisp with a superb sunrise.

Bright Autumn sunshine -warms the cockles of your heart!

The luminosity in the sky is incredible.

Whilst the consrasting sunrises are equally magnificent.

It is certainly confusing the plants which are still flowering.

Provence really is very special in the Autumn, it is so quiet & peaceful, and it is one of our favourite times of year to be here.

It is also an opportune time to work in the garden where we have been carrying out much work in the last few weeks on Sanglier defences which we hope will be completed soon!.

Olive Picking, it's that time again!

2011-11-16T22:00:00.000+01:00

Once a year, like Christmas, olive picking comes around.

We have been enjoying a fabulous warm Autumn, and our trusty loyal Olive pickers are arriving tomorrow.

However, earlier in the week rain was forecast, so we called in the back up team and brought forward picking to today.

The ladies did a stirling job.

We have picked 245 kilos of Olives for the last two years producing almost 50 litres of oil for our use.

Sadly this year, a hot Spring & cold nights in July has led to a poor crop. In addition time to time, the trees simply take a rest and reserve their energy for the following year.

We have a range of accessories to collect our Olives in, this bag , was donated by Roy, from his days as a newspaper boy.

We also have a bag from New Zealand designed for collecting Kiwi's, a peg bag we bought in Australia, and special engineer designed buckets from South Wales! quite a collection.

One of our olive pickers taking a break!!!!

And this is part of the crop, not the best we have picked sadly!

The reward for our loyal pickers, lunch in the sun on the terrace!

And the result, 198 kilos less than the last two years! That is nature!

Volunteers for 2012 contact us now!! third weekend in November .

Weather in October

2011-11-02T14:42:00.000+01:00

It is commonly known locally that each village has it's own micro climate.

In Saint Saturnin Les Apt the warm weather continued through most of October with just 4 days of rain fall recorded totaling 33mm.

So we are set for some glorious Autumn colours!

Time with friends

2011-11-01T09:41:00.001+01:00

Last year in November we met our friend's Roy & Andrea in Berlin.

This year, it was their turn to come to us.

And as the tourist season is quietening it was an opportunity to get out and about without the hustle & bustle normally found in some of our villages and larger towns.

A good place to start is at the Moulin in our own village.

From here there is a great photo opportunity looking back over the village.

Next stop, Gordes, at the viewing point Roy & Andrea.

It is always packed in high season. In fact, reputedly this year 3 million people visited the tourist office!

From here we head to one of our favourite places, Avignon.

The ladies are ready to shop!

No time for shopping! As ever we arrive at just after midday, time to eat and we enjoy a splendid lunch in L'Opera restaurant.

After which, time to walk around a small part of this lovely historic town.

One of the many Museums, Musee du Petit Palais.

The famous bridge 'Pont St Benezet', originally built in the 12th Century and rebuilt in the 17th Century.

'our lady almighty' , a gift from Pope John XXII in the 14th Century.

The Palais des Papes, formerly home to nine Popes, is set on foundations of rock.

The quiet back streets hide many wonderful buildings.

Before heading home time for a refreshment and some people watching in one of the many cafes.

Next day, in Roussillon, sheltering from a rather gusty wind!

We had a thoroughly enjoyable few days.

Wonderful Marseille!

2011-10-19T21:44:00.001+02:00

Last weekend we took advantage of the warm autumn sunshine and spent 24 hours in France's second biggest city Marseille.

The Saturday evening was taken up with the 'Fiesta des Suds' an informal music festival in the former docks, where you can wander from venue to venue in between which are numerous food stands (including champagne and oysters), everything to satisfy a Frenchman's stomach!

On Sunday morning we became tourists taking the train which at 7€ is great value.

Before setting off though we enjoyed Petit dejeuner - breakfast- in this famous old establishment on the Vieux Port

The train takes you on an excellent tour through various parts of the city and then along the coast, past some rather splendid houses,

And this stunning war memorial

And finally to one of the best places in Marseille - the Notre Dame de la Garde.

Standing proudly at the top of the City and dating to 1214 it a a stunning building with a wonderful interior and breath taking views over the city.

At the top of the Notre Dame is the Virgin Mary erected in 1870.

And the views are magnificent, here towards the docks and over the Vieux Port.

Looking South towards the Ile du Frioul where you can take lunch in the Harbour restaurants.

And in land, it really is a huge City.

Inside the interior is beautiful and very colourful.

The detail is incredible.

Any guesses on the date?

Model boats hang from the ceiling representing those lost at sea. Many wives of Fishermen and sailors come here seeking the blessing of Mary.

And so from here we head back, past one or two fabulous buildings, to the Vieux Port!

Where the fish market is in full swing.

Over looking the Harbour - the Hotel de Ville.

A quick beer before lunch....

The Vieux Port

And finally taking the new tram back to our hotel.

Marseille is just 90 minutes drive from home, it is bustling, diverse and exciting and well worth a visit!

End of season blues!

2011-10-18T20:21:00.001+02:00

Our last gite clients have just left, and we can look back on a great season with clients from all over Europe, the USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand, many of whom have re booked already for next year.

We are delighted to be listed No 1 on Tripadvisor for B&B's in Saint Saturnin Les Apt, No 2 in the Luberon and No 5 in the Vaucluse out of over 340 properties.

So a huge thank you to all our guests who have added just great feedback and comments.

We are so pleased our gites are what you are looking for!

Normally we are looking forward to time in the garden to prepare for Autumn & Winter but it has been dampened buy a run of bad luck!

First our normally efficient German heating system has suffered a little self combustion!

The 500 Litre tank will be replaced we hope this week !

Next I managed to prang the car! Squeezing through a gap that was clearly too tight.

We are now looking very French!

But the biggest disaster of all is our pride and joy - the green lawn that (was) by the swimming pool.

We awoke last week to find the grass torn apart by the Sanglier.

The animals are becoming a huge problem, and despite our electric fence they just came in! searching for water, which they found as we were irrigating the grass.

And despite increased defenses they returned to finish the job two nights later.

We are truly devastated.

Thank goodness our guests have left and of course it will all be repaired ready for next year.

In need of a little refreshment this seems the most appropriate wine to drown our sorrows with!

A day out in Gigondas

2011-10-07T18:43:00.001+02:00

We are fortunate enough to live under an hour from one of the most famous and arguably best wine regions in the world - the Rhone valley producing such classic and robust red wines like Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Vacqueras, Gigondas to name but a few.

And with the ongoing hot autumn weather we decided to spend a day out purely so we can give best advice to our clients!

We took the route from St Saturnin to Sault, which is pretty spectacular in itself, the sight of Mont Ventoux is incredible. I have taken this shot many times before and will continue to do so!

At 1912 metres she is impressive!

We drove to the top, notice the extraordinary change in scenery and vegetation .

Remember this is granite - not snow.

Another shot I have taken before, but it is truly stunning.

One way to prepare for lunch - walk to the summit!

We then drove via Malaucene and onto Gigondas where we took lunch at the restaurant L'Oustalet.

My entree of salmon, lightly cooked in tea hit the spot

Whilst Karen started with seasonal wild mushrooms

For main course I had the confit de canard

And Karen the cod with lemon risotto.

A coffee gourmand rounded the meal off perfectly

Washed down with a splendid white wine.

Followed by a little wander round this hill top village.

Not bad for the first week in October!

The Dentilles are really worth seeing , fabulous scenery, wine and restaurants.

And under 60 minutes from home - how good is that!

Our sixth Anniversary of Living in France

2011-10-02T13:00:00.000+02:00

At 4 am on Friday 30th September 2005 Karen and I drove from away from our old lives in Surrey to start our new adventure in Provence.

We didn't speak French but were excited at the prospect of a new challenge.

One thing we had promised ourselves was to drink champagne and watch the sun setting from the top of our village, and for six years we have never quite got round to it until last night, the 30th.

From here there are stunning views to the East & West over the Luberon Valley and mountains.

And it was a perfect warm evening and sunset.

We initially settled in our village house, but it soon became clear we needed outside space, if for no other reason than our boys who were rather shocked by the lack of a garden.

And so we purchased Les Cypres which required just a little refurbishment throughout - this is when we first viewed it.

And on our second day after moving in a huge storm deluged the pool with mud!

There was some work to do but we were ready for the challenge.

After some work it was looking a little better!

A new coat of render and painting the windows and shutters made quite a difference.

We loved living at Les Cypres, and from the number of repeat visitors our clients do too!

But for us, it was time for our next project

On the 6th November 2005, just 5 weeks after arriving we stumbled across this piece of land, and as the say in France it was a 'coup de coeur' or instant love! a blow to the heart - we had to have it!

And because of the access issues it became necessary to buy the adjoining land where we went on to build Le Chene.

April 2008 Le Chene under construction.

You may well be aware of all this if you have followed my blog over the years.

But we are still frequently asked three questions.What was here before we built? See above!

The second question is did we build all of it? Yes, this is February 2008.

And February 2009 - note we were parking on the terrace outside the gites and our first clients were arriving in May!

The third question - does it get cold here?

Yes it sure does! whilst blue skies are the norm, temperatures can fall to as low as minus 15 at times.

And today, gradually the gardens are getting more and more established as we had planned.

And the gites are increasingly popular.

Le Chene also has a loyal client base with many repeat clients already booked in for 2012.

We have had a wonderful six years, our client base is worldwide allowing us to meet and make friends with so many interesting and friendly people.

Here is to the next six years!

Perfect conditions for the Vendage

2011-09-26T18:33:00.001+02:00

It's that time of year again - Grape Harvesting.

And what a corker of a year it should be, certainly for wines from the Luberon & Ventoux region.

Enhanced by a pronged hot dry summer, some cooler nights in July, little Mistral wind and very few storms.

As I do every year, I spent the day picking at a friends Vineyard which produces 26,000 bottles of wine, abt 4500 white, 6500 Rose and the rest are Red.

The wines of Domaine Faverot.

As always as many volunteers as possible are invited to join in and the entire 8 Hectares are picked by hand.

Little did my sister Gill, know what I had instore for her when she arrived last week!

Lovely Juicy Syrah grapes.

Just to prove I was there too!

And after picking, through the archway is the reward...

A very tasty lunch is served accompanied by a selection of wines

But not too much, as we have to pick again in the afternoon, although I confess productivity is not as good as the morning!

Having seen the consumption of wine at Chez Taylor this summer I think this is the size barrel we could do with by the pool!

September really is a fabulous month to Holiday in Provence!

Fabulous Cassis

2011-09-14T22:26:00.000+02:00

Is it Cassis or Cassee? We are told you do not pronounce the S, so say it 'Cassee' and you should be OK!

What ever you want to call it, spend at least a day here!

It is a very pretty fishing harbour, lined with restaurants, bars and ice cream parlours.

Our normal visit is arriving 11.30, beer, then lunch, a walk around after and leave around 4 pm. Terrible.

This time we arrived 9.30, coffee, boat trip, lunch , an hour on the beach and swim in the sea, a little refreshment, some people watching, and a walk around the La presqui-ile, one of the many walks around the Callanques.

Leaving the pretty harbour.

The first of the eight 'Calanques' we visited, 'inlets', this one leading to a very protected harbour.

These 'hole in the walls' were not cash points but the stones were delivered through the holes in the walls onto the boats which took them to Marseilles for construction as we know it today.

These incredible trees, 'Pin Alep' or Alep Pines, grow right out of the rock and face the intense weather- heat, wind, rain, and yet look so healthy!

Another hidden treasure, this beach is so hard to reach. and yet when you are there...........

From here we begin to see some of the most breathtaking rock faces we have ever seen.

a number of which not only go deep into the water....

where there are under ground grotto's , but also canyons which you can Kayak through....

Again, another vast and impressive cliff face.

Simply awesome scenery.

Another isolated beach.

Us on the boat!

La Plage!

In Cassis, tourist are every where!

well they are one minute, them they are gone!

This is one of the first Callanque's we visited by boat, this time on foot late afternoon.

Do go to Cassis, do go out on a boat to the Callanques, do take lunch, do have an ice cream and do have a great day!

Another restuarant recommendation

2011-09-06T15:37:00.000+02:00

Here we are checking out another restaurant - it's a tough life but someone has to do it!

In Villars, between Saint Saturnin & Apt, the new owners of the Fountaine, Nadine & Tjebbe have settled in well.

The restaurant is in a lovely setting in this pretty village.

A very appealing starter of courgette terrine , very seasonal.

I chose the plat de jour, a three meat risotto

Whilst Karen ate Cabillaud (cod) again with season vegetables.

fgsh

and a scrummy dessert with red fruits and ice cream.Low calorie of course!

Even better Martin picked up the tab! Thank you Martin.

Highly recommended.

The actual birthday! 24th August 2011

2011-09-04T20:13:00.000+02:00

A perfect sunny day to welcome the birthday girl!

And off to Kayak between Fontaine de Vaucluse and L'Isle sur la sorgue

the calm (but cold ) are beautiful

great scenary

crystal clear water, just 14 degrees.

having survived this we headed to an exhibition of sculptures nearby in Le Thor

That would have made a great birthday gift!

And in the evening down to the village for dinner

Always great food and fun in L'Estrade

Happy Birthday x

August celebrations continue...........

2011-09-04T20:01:00.000+02:00

On Friday 19th August we held a soiree poolside for Karen's birthday.

Needless to say Karen was on prep in the kitchen.....

Last minute stuff aided by Martin

Service!

A pretty splendid spread....

Service! Martin always on hand to help ( Karen worked with Martin at M&S 33 years ago!)

something must have amused the ladies?

Ann, Marlyese & Rosemary

Lynn, Glynn & Tim

Karen and myself with Corrine

A Michelin Starred Restaurant Experience

2011-08-31T23:01:00.001+02:00

Our first experience of eating in a Michelin starred restaurant in France, Christian Etienne in Avignon.

The restaurant is overlooking the courtyard outside the Palais des Pape.

I chose the Tomato menu starting with Heirloom Noire de Crimée tomato cappuccino with garlic

We enjoyed one of the best tables in the house!

King crab legs rolled in romaine lettuce leaves, preserved Roma tomato slices, fresh mint and lemon caviar, pearl barley salad

Tomato tartare of red Cœur de bœuf and orange Ananas heirlooms, summer salad
with olive oil

Puff pastry with Provençal snails, chopped Roma tomatoes sprinkled

with parsley and garlic

Pan-roasted slice of monkfish with pipérade and parsley croutons, Mediterranean fish stew

Eggplant cannelloni with lamb stuffing, roast Marmande heirloom tomato slices,
onion sauce

A peanut and chocolate brittle finished everything perfectly!

Whilst Karen had the Apricot, fruit and ice cream dessert.

But as ever her favourite course was the cheeseboard.

And to aid the digestion........

Fabulous service, food, wine & service - go treat yourself!

Celebrations in Avignon

2011-08-31T21:54:00.001+02:00

August has been an incredibly busy and exciting month with friends staying followed by Karen and I celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary and then a week later Karen a rather special birthday.

This of course gives us the perfect excuse to take time out and visit some of our favourite places and find restaurants to recommend to our clients.

No sooner had we arrived in Avignon, we stumbled across this superb restaurant, 83.Vernet.

Set in a beautiful sunlit courtyard the main courses are just 13€ with either an entree or dessert for an extra 4€

And with wine at just 2€ a glass you know where we will be heading next time!

Open for lunch and dinner - 83.Vernet.

After lunch we meandered around this fabulous walled city, which is very easy to navigate (we recommend taking the tourist train on a first visit) taking in the cobbled streets and impressive character buildings.

I loved the wiring outside these shutters.

If you look carefully you will find this quiet backwater.

and then there is the hustle and bustle of the the Place de l'Horloge which is lined with many restaurants including another of our favourites L'Opera.

And then you cannot miss the Palais de Pape , once the home of the Pope when he fled Rome.

The Rhone, and one of the river boats that offers nights cruises with dinner etc

The Rhone river with Pont St Benezet's Bridge, the constuction started in 1177, in 1226 much of the bridge was destroyed and not repaired until many years later, in 1603 much of the bridge was once again destroyed by flooding and to this day remains as it is. It remains famous for the song Sur le Pont D'Avignon.

This is the indoor market in Avignon. Measuring 30M x 11.5M and covered in 20 different plants per square metre the exterior wall was planted in 2006.

There are 40 individual merchandisers selling everything from fruit & Veg, flowers, meat & fish to bread, wine and every mouthwatering Provencal delicacy you can imagine!

One of the fruit & Veg stall holders.

And Fish! Karen's favourite!

In the centre of town, the Hotel De Ville. not a hotel chain, but the town hall!

And the famous Opera house.

The square in front of the Palais de Pape is full of restaurants & Bars.

Whilst in the back streets this building has been converted into quite impressive appartments.

Avignon is an absolute must visitfor at least a day, if not two . Even though we live less than an hour away we decided to stay the night in the Hotel D'Europe in Place de Crillon, well worth it for a treat!

Within the hotel's courtyard there is a lovely restaurant and bar service.

We love Avignon - we are sure you will too!

Time with friends

2011-08-15T23:14:00.001+02:00

It is often said when you move abroad that you will never be short of friends!

Well I think that is assuming you move to a sunny and warm climate!

Pictured here is Ian & Sheena, I met Ian in 1983 whilst working in Estate agency and Steve & Debbie, I met Steve in 1977 as his grandparents lived close to me in Surrey (he is Canadian and lives just outside Toronto).

It is always enjoyable to have friends staying, an opportunity to take time out and go and visit all those fabulous places that the region is renowned for.

As ever, one has to start with the important bits - a restaurant for lunch! sadly closed on the day we were in Saignon but we are told well worth a visit!

And so instead we headed up to the rocher at the height of the village where the views are spectacular (as are the health and safety rules - be careful!)

360 degree views from the top!

And so after this, we moved on to something very close to my heart and typical of the region- wine !

A degustation at a chateau is essential. And where better than Chateau Canorgue, just outside Bonnieux .

We were lucky enough to meet with the owners daughter Natalie Margan who provided a generous tasting and useful commentary on their Bio wines.

The chateau is also known for being used in Peter Mayle's film 'a Good Year' directed by Ridley Scott, both of whom have houses in the area.

It starred Russell Crowe

The old bassin makes a fabulous photo with the church in the back ground.

But I have to say, everyone's favourite village is Saint Saturnin Les Apt.

The church spire,village house roof tops and chateau make a fabulous picture.

As does the Moulin.

And if that does not satisfy Karen is still on show outside the hairdressers!

This must be one of the most photographed houses in the village!

Another popular town to visit is L'Isle Sur La Sorgue - or the Little Venice of Provence.

It has numerous antique shops, a market on Sunday and several great restaurants and bars.

more silver than you can shake a baguette at!

And some interesting objet d'art!

And finally after all this excitement we went star gazing in Saint Michel L'Observatoir

where we had great views of the southern Alps and we were less than an hour from home!

These rather curious buildings were perfect for star gazing.

August 9th to 18th is the optimum time for shooting stars.

All in all a fabulous week in provence!

Fantastic Fete Votive!

2011-08-07T15:34:00.000+02:00

As shown earlier on my blog, the building work was just finished in time to enlarge the area for the annual Fete Votive held in the village the first weekend in August on Friday, Saturday & Sunday nights.

This years stage, band and light show was simply the best - and the turn out was fantastic.

Well over 1000 people attended the second night- naturally food is available, there is a bar, casino table and kids rides.

We lost count of the number of costume changes.

A really professional group.

Plenty of dancing and fun.

Ironically , it finished at 2 am , just as the lightening started and a huge storm rolled in .

A great night - make it a date for 2012!

Weather facts!

2011-08-03T22:56:00.001+02:00

A close friend has kindly provided some interesting weather facts for Saint Saturnin Les Apt for the year to date (starting in February)

Like some other parts of Europe we have experienced an exceptional dry and warm spring and early summer whilst July saw not only the highest rain fall this year but cooler nights and lower than average temperatures. Thankfully the number of days of sunshine was actually above average overall confirming the area enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year!

FEBRUARY Min Temp -0.2 degrees High Temp 16.1 rainfall 17mm over 3 days.

MARCH Min Temp 1.5 degrees High Temp 20.0 rainfall 56.4mm over 8 days

APRIL Min Temp 6.0 degrees High Temp 28.4 rainfall 17.8mm over 4 days

MAY Min Temp 9.7 degrees High temp 32.7 rainfall 13.8mm over 3 days

JUNE Min Temp 9.9 degrees High temp 35.9 rainfall 56.9mm over 5 days

JULY Min Temp 12.6 low High temp 35.9 rainfall 61.2mm over 4 days

Figures courtesy Geoff Goy.

Blessed wine!

2011-08-03T22:34:00.001+02:00

Not quite holy wine but you get the feeling it must be good when buying your wine from this Vintner who's degustation takes place in a former chapel.

My friend Eero and I were there to taste and collect the latest wine produced by David Fayet at Mas de Fadan in Les Grands Clements, a tiny Hameau near Villars, just out side Saint Saturnin Les Apt.

David & I discuss the vintage, picked in 2009, kept in Oak and bottled this year.

Just 4000 bottles are produced and can be kept for between 3 and 7 years.

Approved and deal done!

Fortunately whilst we were there we bought the last of the 2010 Rose. 12000 bottles Sold out!

Time to load the car!

One of many private vineyards we buy from and that we can recommend for tastings and to buy and enjoy whilst on holiday here in the Luberon.

Nos Chats!

2011-08-03T22:10:00.001+02:00

Guests staying in our gites will inevitably meet one of our three cats.

One or two clients have expressed their, well lets say, lack of interest in them on arrival.

But they soon get won over!

This is Ginger, she is French, aged about nine we think and living with us for the last five years.

Taking a drink despite the salt water!

Splodge, our teenager! 13 in July. Likes to keep an eye on things from the roof top !

But is at his happiest having his tummy rubbed!

And then there is the Boss, Matisse, Slodge's brother. We have had them since they were born and they certainly add a little something to our gites - they are even mentioned on Trip Advisor.

Update on the dance floor!

2011-08-02T10:21:00.000+02:00

This week sees the fete votive, three nights of music and dancing - 10 pm to 2 am!

And all the building work is completed just in time.

I will update this week as the lighting and stage are erected.

Always having an eye out for a new motor - tempted by this one!

walking holidays?

2011-07-27T22:28:00.000+02:00

If walking is your interest then this publication is a must - available in the boulangerie and Tabac there are 20 walks starting from various points in Saint Saturnin Les Apt

Number 12 starts just outside the village, starting with some impressive prehistoric caves.

Interesting for both adults and children, the caves are amazing.

You need a good map reader!

The air is so clean and clear - obvious by this lichen growing on the trees.

We have driven across this bridge on route to Sault but never got amongst the land as you do when walking.

At over 500 metres we reach the peak of the walk, our Finnish friends Eero, Anti & Erika - Anu on photography!

Our pace setters Karen & Anu

On the route home with spectacular views of the Luberon with Roussillon in the foreground

And after, the reward for our efforts a picnic!

A perfect way to start a Sunday in Provence.

Our New Dance Floor!

2011-07-22T17:43:00.000+02:00

Now many people think Saint Saturnin Les Apt is a sleepy Provencal village, and for much of the year it is!

However in August we, like most French villages have our Fete Votive.

It is basically a village party, with seriously professional bands, gambling tables, bar etc and of course dancing.

It takes place the first weekend and starts at 10 p.m., and finishes at 2 am on three consecutive nights (Friday, Saturday & Sunday, )

Since January building work has been taking place to enlarge the surface area, just for these three nights. It has been a huge feat of engineering and at goodness knows what cost.

Thank fully an enlarged workforce have come on stream this week for the final push and suddenly it looks like the new esplanade as they are calling it might just be finished in time!

Strange goings on in the village this morning!

2011-07-21T18:22:00.001+02:00

The village square was closed to traffic this morning and Claude was singing his heart out accompanied by the Patrick the Accordionist!

We were not aware that the 5th stage of this famous running race through France was pausing in our village! (nor were that many others by the look of it!)

On a more serious note, the race started on the 16th july and finishes two weeks later .Each stage is about 200 kilometers per day, starting with breakfast of course! which is why they were in St Saturnin , and then dinner in the evening.

Accommodation in village halls is included - tempting..........

Even we need a break!

2011-07-21T18:03:00.000+02:00

We are now more than half way through our season, the first clients arrived in early April and the last currently leave late November.

So we took off for a mini break! it turned out to be less than a mini break, in fact one day on the beach and one day in Aix but none the less it was fun.

Heading off early and over the Luberon heading South.....

Past the Sun flower fields

And to the sea in less than three hours

Not much space left by lunchtime, the beach is just out side Le Lavandou.

cooler in the shade!

Lunch at Chez Jo, it is so popular at has two sittings every day.

Amazingly over night the clouds rolled in and we woke to rain which became torrential for several hours creating an interesting drive to Aix, which we almost abandoned in favour of heading home . However, no sooner had we arrived in Aix, the clouds parted and the sun came out.

One of four fountains, this one at the top of the Cours Mirabeau keeps drivers cool as they queue (I just managed to get a break in the traffic which was at a standstill later in the day)

The streets just meander on and on and there is a great selection of individual boutiques, artisan shops restaurants, galleries etc but for me I just love the characterful buildings like this dry cleaners.

The Cours Mirabeau, 42 metres wide and 440 metres long , lined with Plane trees and dating to 1650 when it cost £100,000 to build.

Now the street to Promenade in, take a coffee or beer in Les Deux Garçons and people watch.

Go and enjoy!

Cats and things

2011-07-17T14:50:00.000+02:00

These pictures are totally unrelated, I just wanted to share them!

We have three cats, and I caught Ginger napping recently, awaiting aperos in the pool house.

This classic vehicle was at the Vide Grenier last week, it is so characterful.

It is July, it is Fig season! fresh off our tree. Delicious with honey & whisky!

Bastille Day - July 14th 2011

2011-07-17T14:35:00.001+02:00

The day before Bastille day was dampened by torrential rain and thunderstorms, unusual for July.

However it dried up for the evening market in the village.

At around 10 pm a procession went through the village with children carrying lanterns and a band playing some rousing music!

And then, starting at 11 pm, a live band playing in the village square.

Bastille Day, a Mistral wind has blown away the clouds and the sun is shining......

The village traditionally holds a Vide Grenier, and it attracts a huge crowd, this is the road, Chemin de Romanet, normally quiet with no cars!

All the streets are lined with stalls selling everything you can imagine!

some of it quality , some of it, well to one's personal taste!

I must be losing my negotiation skills - I attempted to buy two teapots from one seller - the lady wanted 8€, I offered 5€, No, I increased to 6€, still no, the ladies husband suggested she compromise at 7€, and still the lady said no! so I bought some rather nice vegetable dishes instead for my 7€! Principle really - and I don't drink tea!

All the local commerce's are open to serve all the extra customers - its a great atmosphere.

Our Boulangerie, one of two in the village, has a wonderful choice of bread.

July 14th 2012 will be on a Saturday - time to book next years holiday and enjoy the fun!

Les Lavendes, c'est magnifique!

2011-07-12T22:45:00.000+02:00

As reliable as the sun rising, each June & July we are blessed with a magnificent display of Lavender, less than 30 minutes drive away , with the imposing back drop of Mont Ventoux the village of Sault is surrounded by fields of Lavender.

An amazing back drop to this Provencal village.

This year the dry spring has created particularly strong colours.

A picture paints a thousand words!

ditto!

And so what happens to the Lavender- it is cut by machine, tied by hand and sold the world over...

These bunches are being dried.

And in contrast with the lavender the fields of Barley

create an amazing foreground to the mighty giant Ventoux!

adjacent, another field of Lavender!

In Sault ,Daniel Mathieu , a well known local artist has captured the local scenery beautifully together with some great abstract paintings - do go and see.

If you would like to experience the Lavender book now for 2012!

The Lazy and not so lazy Sanglier!

2011-07-08T09:57:00.000+02:00

Another great restaurant - Le Sanglier Paresseux in Caseneuve,

enjoying stunning views over the valley and superb sunsets.

The fixed price menu (29€) offers a choice of 3 starters, the one above being stuffed peppers.

Fois Gras

or courgette flowers with soup and truffle shavings

My main course of stuffed Quail was delicious.

As was Karen's Fish course.

and great desserts, fruits

et chocolate!

Go and enjoy!

Now, the name of the restaurant translates to the lazy Sanglier - what is a Sanglier - it is a Wild Boar.

These creatures live in the hills and land around us and come in the night in search of water and grub worms.

The destruction is incredible

As we found this morning , the grass by our pool was my pride and joy!

Some work to do I think!

A day in Saint Remy de Provence

2011-07-03T18:11:00.002+02:00

One of our favourite towns is St Remy, a scenic drive of less than 60 minutes from home.

The Hotel de Ville set in a pretty square with Plane Trees.

It is an easy town to park in, although Market day,Wednesday can be challenging.

You can meander through the pretty streets where there are some excellent boutiques and speciality food shops.

This one specialises in wine, cheese & Truffles

Exquisite!

The 'Butcher', a rare sight in many UK high streets today.

There are also many specialist Olive and Olive Oil shops which are an abundant feature of the local landscape.

Shabby or Chic?

more chic than shabby!

And of course the choice of restaurants is huge.

We were enticed by this window display of patisseries into a well known restaurant

'L'Aile ou la Cuisse'

And were not disappointed by our choice, with a Goats cheese and Filo pastry salad to start

One of the main courses, mackeral

And in the end I could not choose which dessert to have so elected for the Cafe Gourmand.

Whilst my sister showed less strength succumbing to a mille Feuille!

And after lunch a chance to walk off lunch in the peaceful backstreets.

And admire the many characterful buildings and facades.

Karen and I by one of the many fountains that will be found in the town.

Karen's dream car! And No I still haven't bought one

Are they completely mad?

2011-06-23T13:35:00.000+02:00

Cycling is the most popular sport in France. And the roads around the Luberon are perfect for all levels of cycling with wonderful scenery, smooth and level cycle paths and for the more serious biker there are off road trails and and some challenging hills to climb, the largest and most famous being Mont Ventoux, the land mark for the penultimate day of the tour de France in 2009

The peak of Ventoux looks snow covered all year but it is in fact Granite that gives the white appearance in summer.

Last week we hosted at our gites two of these four gentlemen who took the challenge of cycling up Ventoux, not once, not twice but three times in one day.

On their way up they would pass and acknowledge a cycling hero, Tommy Simpson, who collapsed and died aged 29, during the Tour de France in 1967

136 km, 4,400 m of climbing, 7h 45 time in the saddle.

This is Kevin & Sean still smiling and standing at the top after 3 rides up!

Three times up from Bedoin, Malaucene and Sault and then back down to Bedoin gives you membership of the Club des Cinglés du Mont-Ventoux.

And most rewarding views!

Yes that is three fingers! Dr Kevin Gunning , justifiably pleased with himself!

Hats off to them all!

Four times next year?

Friends

2011-06-21T23:12:00.001+02:00

One of the most exciting things about moving to a new country is meeting new people.

We have now been living in the village for approaching six years. And during this time we have been fortunate enough to meet and make friends with a wonderful, colourful and diverse bunch of people.

Naturally we have a number of good English friends, and I am pleased to say French, who are sympathetic to our less than brilliant language skills.

We also have close friends who are Finnish, Swedish, Belgian, & American creating an interesting discussion point when we get together, especially as we are from all sorts of different work back grounds .

These pictures are from the house of our Swedish friends who have the most exquisite taste.

A visit to Uzes

2011-06-20T17:51:00.000+02:00

We have finally made a visit to the town of Uzes, in the Gard.

Taking a route through Avignon and passed the magnificent Pont du Gard (also worth stopping at) it is about 100 minutes drive but well worth it!

The impressive Cathedral .

And something not seen in our own area are the covered arcades which keep the shops cool.

Even before noon the restaurants in the main square are filling fast!

Such a glorious French scene, the square, fountain and plane trees.

And some quite unusual shops!

The town mouse catcher caught napping!

(it was lunchtime)

And if you want to get away from the bustling square it is easy to lose your self in the back streets.

Certainly a good day out and a town worth visiting.

Total eclipse of the moon!

2011-06-19T18:38:00.000+02:00

On Wednesday evening, whilst enjoying dinner with our guests at Le Chene, we witnessed the eclipse of the moon take place.

Caused by the moon rising in the earth's shadow this rare event took place over several hours.

Our clear skies gave a distinct advantage! and great photo opportunity!

Before the full moon was revealed

The Lavender season approaches!

2011-06-13T17:08:00.000+02:00

A week or two earlier than normal the lavender is blooming in our garden.

As you approach the deep end of the swimming pool you can enjoy the scent of the lavender

The bees are certainly enjoying the flower creating excellent local honey that we serve to our B&B guests at breakfast.

.Summer in Provence!

Pentecote Holiday weekend

2011-06-12T18:35:00.000+02:00

There is no doubt the holiday season has begun!

The Pentecote Holiday weekend. It is incredible how the roads are suddenly full of foreign cars - Polish, Belgium,Germany, Holland, UK to name but a few. The holiday season is firmly underway!

We visited the market in L'Isle sur La Sorgue which was absolutely Packed!

As ever there were a wonderful array of items to buy from table ware to Fruit

What do people do?

Many people spend Pentecost Monday quietly in the company of family or close friends. Many people also enjoy a picnic lunch in a park or the countryside. Local sporting or cultural events are held in some small towns and villages.

Public life

Public life in France is quiet on Pentecost Monday. Post offices, banks, stores and other businesses are closed. Outside of tourist areas, restaurants and cafes may also be closed. However, bakeries and some stores in Paris, as well as at airports and railway stations and along major highways, are open.

Frenchman with bagettes and his cakes!

Public transport service schedules vary depending on where one lives and intends to travel. Some villages and small towns hold sporting or cultural events that may cause some local disruption to traffic. Highways into major towns and cities may be very busy in the late afternoon and evening as people return from vacation.

Background

Pentecost Monday does not hold great religious significance for many people in France in modern times, but was a public holiday until 2005 and again from 2008. The holiday was reintroduced after about 15,000 elderly people died in a heatwave in the summer of 2003. The French government made a commitment to financially support the elderly and people with disabilities by deciding that Pentecost Monday would no longer be a public holiday from 2005 onwards.

The public holiday was replaced with the Day of Solidarity. On this day people worked for no pay. Their wages were collected to assist the elderly and persons with disabilities. However, there were demonstrations and Pentecost Monday became a public holiday again in 2008. The French government introduced other fiscal measures to raise money to support the elderly and persons with disabilities.

A new restaurant recommendation

2011-06-02T15:41:00.000+02:00

In the interest of our clients satisfaction we continue to search for good eating establishments!

After a number of our friends have recommended it, we finally ate at La Ferme de la Huppe, just outside Gordes, in the Luberon, Provence.

A great restaurant. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal.

Our starters, Asparagus two ways including a soft boiled egg.

And Fois Gras, also two ways.

Followed by Turbot with fennel

And for me Veal with seasonal vegetables.

And dessert, a Mango and passion fruit delight!

Karen had a peach Gazpacho

Excellent service, welcome 'nibbles', amuse bouche and petits fours with coffee, also a comprehensive wine list.

A hit and we will be back!

Strange goings on in Sault!

2011-06-01T15:34:00.001+02:00

We went to Sault at the weekend where there was some interesting entertainment!

Street art I think they call it!

I wonder who will clear up after?

It certainly drew quite an audience

and further strange sightings!

Just as crazy in my view! on their way up Mont Ventoux.

Earlier in the market at Coustellet we spotted some cherries appropriately named as HelenMary (Stark) was with us. Helenmary and Dave are friends visiting us for a long weekend.

Here they are at the obligatory photo spot overlooking Gordes!

Hot Air Ballooning in Provence

2011-06-01T14:45:00.001+02:00

We watched this hot air balloon gently drift past our house at the weekend giving the guests a wonderful birds eye view of the Luberon Valley.

We can arrange hot Air Balloon trips from nearby Roussillon, a perfect trip for a special occasion.

The view from our house of the 'Grand Luberon'

Our new recruits!

2011-05-24T22:30:00.000+02:00

Many of our clients ask whether Karen does all the washing and ironing on changeover weekends.

Well the answer is yes, but this week we invited her Mum Joan to bring along a long standing family friend Fred for the week. It happened to coincide with a busy changeover weekend, then I thought of an incentive, food and wine for every sheet ironed - well they look pretty happy in their work!

Market day in Saint Saturnin Les Apt, Luberon, Provence

2011-05-24T22:23:00.000+02:00

Tuesday's is market day in the village , it is fun seeing how it changes from two or three stalls in deepest winter to the hub of activity in summer.

Our faithful fish stall is there pretty much year round with a wonderful selection of fresh fish.

The stalls include fresh vegetables, fruit, table cloths, jewellery, pottery & clothing and of course the local bars are perfect to stop and enjoy some people watching with a coffee, croissant or even a beer or glass of Rose!

Saucisson , very popular and a wide choice of flavours including donkey and bull!

Olive trees are a huge feature of the landscape of Provence so it will be no surprise to find a huge choice of Olives in the market. Try some!

May - an incredible month in Provence

2011-05-23T23:40:00.000+02:00

The weather, has almost become the biggest talking point in France, but then there is still food, wine and Sarkozy!

Rainfall is at an all time low, temperatures this week in the 30's.

The cherries are plump, almost purple in colour and at least 3 weeks earlier than normal.

Something clients frequently ask is how far are we located from the village.

Well here is a picture I took from our house of the chateau which is at the top of the village, which is about 800 metres away.

Our boule court is being put to good use. I caught Richard, one of our guests from the USA getting in some practice.

Whilst the new pool at Les Cypres is nestling in perfectly to the surrounding deck and view.

We currently have Karen's Mum visiting with a long standing family friend 'Fred' his first time in Provence and nearly 80 years young - so we took him to one of the village land marks - the Moulin

And then we go on to the viewing platform at Gordes

The Luberon is also famous for the Lavender which is showing it's first sign of coming into colour

Whilst the roses are in perfect shape producing magnificent blooms!

We have been invited to enter a competition for pictures of our roses - and will submit this one - comments welcome!

And some amazing light on the Luberon in the early evening

May is certainly a wonderful month to be in the Luberon!

Lovely Plump cherries!

2011-05-17T22:10:00.000+02:00

Three weeks earlier than normal our cherries are almost ready in the garden at Les Cypres.

These Burlats cherries will be almost purple in colour in just a few days and are just delicious!

When driving around the area the trees are laden with fruit, very tempting to stop and pick a few!

May, another perfect month in the Luberon!

Walking in the Luberon

2011-05-10T22:44:00.000+02:00

We are very lucky to be able to walk out from our house to endless magnificent walks.

Whether you like a casual stroll or a challenging hiking trail you will be spoilt for choice in the Luberon.

Our gites Les Oliviers & Cerisiers and our houses Le Chene & Les Cypres are all walking distance of the village of Saint Saturnin Les Apt.

One regular walk that we make is to the small village of Villars.

The iris's are in full bloom with an array of colours.

Whilst the warm sunny spring has brought the vines to life early

Look closely at the grapes developing - your next glass of wine!

Even the weeds are looking good!

And the roses are blooming gorgeous!

These cherries are also earlier than normal and will be ready before the end of the month.

This is a simple walk, about 10 kilometres, quite easy and lots to see.

If you prefer a more challenging hike we have an excellent book with 20 walks from the village.

Spring and Autumn are arguably the best time with more comfortable temperatures and fantastic colours.

It's May Day!

2011-05-01T16:00:00.000+02:00

The perfect way to start May - Breakfast on the terrace in the warm spring sunshine.

Unlike much of Europe, tomorrow, Monday will not be a bank holiday in France. When the 'Fete' falls at the weekend the day is lost! I am surprised there is not a strike to protest!

The first weekend in May is also the start to the traditional 'Vide Grenier' season, this means empty your loft sale, like a car boot except it involves a large social gathering, picnic lunch, wine and then a snooze.

This one in Joucas is always very popular.

I finally made a very considered purchase after years of looking!

Isn't she a beauty!

A welcome watering hole!

From Joucas we headed to the Sunday morning market in Coustellet

Stopping on route to check on my now famous mad trees!

Ah so French and cute!

Coustellet is always busy, but has a lovely relaxed friendly atmosphere, perfect for a Sunday

We like to see the regulars, this man sells wild thyme and peat!

Fresh spring onions!

gorgeous strawberries

and fabulous fresh garlic

Lovely parking - in the shade!

well almost!

Just time for an expresso before returning home

I think that pool beckons!

Poppies are on their way!

2011-04-17T16:41:00.001+02:00

The first poppies are appearing in our garden, a little earlier than normal, encouraged by the early warm temperatures and sunshine.

Soon the area will be a blaze of red, the poppies replacing the spring blossom.

Le Chene is ready to receive her first guests of this years season , a couple from Australia who are here for nine weeks. This is the third season and we have just completed a round of redecorating and the garden is also now getting nice and established.

Book now for 2012!

Summer comes early

2011-04-10T22:08:00.000+02:00

Like much of southern Europe we have been basking in unseasonably warm temperatures resulting in the flowers and trees to producing early blossom and buds and some wonderful produce to our tables!
We took advantage of a free Saturday to visit the market in Apt which was already pretty busy.

Juicy red tomatoes in Apt market yesterday

White Asparagus from the Gard

Sun dried tomatoes

strawberries from Carpentras

gorgeous green asparagus......

Even melons are early!

and fabulous artichokes

And so for Sunday lunch Karen produced Asparagus with poached egg, shavings of parmasan...

and in the evening a cote de boeuf with green beans, roasted potatoes, garlic and onions.

washed down with a little white and red.........

and for desert

a little cassis is added to the strawberries

and some creme fraiche to top!

And so to work off all this great food some exercise beckons!

back in the pool, a little fresh at 20 degrees but a necessary evil!

It is amazing how quickly the pool has warmed up with the warm weather, two week ago it was just 11 degrees, now topping 23 in the day.

Our cherry tree in full bloom

The Luberon, early evening.

Karen's Mum, Joan has been with us for the last week enjoying the balmy spring temperatures and sunshine.

And our first guests have arrived in Les Cypres, an Australian couple , setting off what should be a very busy season.

We have spent the last fortnight working to make sure the house meets our clients expectations so have carried out several improvements which we hope will add to the pleasure of the house. Over 30% of this years clients are repeat guests so it is important maintain it for them.

Rather unexpectedly we have had to replace the pool liner which is being carried out tomorrow, we hope a crisis averted! Property ownership is not without its stress and expenditure!

What a week and we have a winner!

2011-04-03T20:04:00.002+02:00

I am not sure why it is that when I had a 'normal' 'conventional' job that I used to fit most things in! And now when theoretically I have more time I seem to struggle to find the time...............maybe it's age!

Any way, it has been quite a week, so much so that I am going to have to recite it in reverse order!

As reported earlier on my blog last night saw the final of 'Miss Arrielle Creation 2011'.

A competition put on by the hairdresser in the village for the best haircut.

Karen was one of the five candidates, and voting took place at the salon over the last month.

Over 310 votes were cast , and a 'grande soiree ' was organised with wine & food laid on, the Marie was present and the weather set perfectly.

The atmosphere builds as the tension heightens!

Arielle leads the ladies to the stage for the announcement of the winner

She introduces each contestant........

And in the tradition of Miss World, her assistant Caroline, opens the envelope to reveal the winner

Karen!

Wow, It is so wonderful!

I am so proud, for lots of reasons, that Karen has won this competition, especially as non locals!

So I present Miss Arielle Creation 2011!- My wife!

I speak for Karen to say it has been an enormous privilege to have been invited to take part in the competition and we would like to congratulate Arielle for organising such a professional, well run event.

And so back to real life!

Last week we were preparing Les Cypres for the first guests who arrive next week.

The pool has been emptied for cleaning and some repairs.

And the wonderful Spring weather has allowed us to prepare the garden.

The house is booked right through summer but it is very important we keep on top of everything, and this garden seems to demand lots of attention!

Meanwhile the garden outside our gites is thriving, planted in 2009 everything is looking very healthy after

a mild winter and warm spring.

Lunch on the terrace, a beer is strictly limited to weekends!

Waking up to this view in the morning is so good for the spirit!

I think we have found paradise!

LONDON 27 to 30 MARCH

We were fortunate to live just half an hour outside London when living in the UK, now over 5 years ago, and yet we visited so rarely, and when we did we were always under pressure to get back etc. so a recent opportunity arose to spend 3 days in London, where we could be tourists!

We took a flight Sunday morning from Marseille to London and were in our Hotel by lunchtime, pretty good, eh!

Our 'Town house ' Hotel in Marylebone

We lost no time getting out to see the sights starting in Trafalgar Square.

We were amazed at how busy London was!

Thank fully we missed the riots the day before, which left their mark in all sorts of places!

The National Gallery, where we took in the Bridget Riley exhibition who happens to live in Saint Saturnin Les Apt.

Reflecting on the scene..........

There is a great atmosphere, people from all over the world congregate on one of the most famous squares in the world.

Karen taking in the fun of the day.

Spring daffodils set the scene on our second day.

Reminding me of my jury service at the Old Bailey in 2001.

St Paul's with spring flowers in the foreground.

Busy, busy, busy.......

it is lunchtime and the perfect place to take a picnic...

The Millennium bridge attracts a huge crowd

Us!

Karen and the millennium bridge

Enjoying a rest at St Pancras station in the champagne bar of course!

The longest champagne bar In Europe!

Celebrating the forthcoming Olympics.

Just celebrating - no excuses needed!

The newly opened St Pancras Hotel looks magnificent and is highly impressive.

It was certainly wonderful to visit London as a tourist, it is vibrant, fun and exciting. There are so many fantastic buildings, restaurants and shops. So much history, richness and culture. Service has come on leaps and bounds. It is truly one of the best cities in the world - to visit - to live - that is another question?

Spring is in the air!

2011-03-20T21:07:00.000+01:00

Spring is in the air so it is time to unleash the plants which have been wrapped up since November.

This has been the one of the driest and mildest winters for several years.

So unlike last year when many plants suffered with the snow and cold our plants are looking pretty healthy.

Our first gite guests arrive next week so this weeks tasks are the first grass cut of the season

and to open the pool although the water is still a little chilly!

And to get us in the mood the first event of Spring is the Maubec flower and plant show held today which is always very popular and a great excuse for everyone to come out, eat and drink and pretend to be interested in plants!

Who is going to win?

2011-03-16T18:22:00.001+01:00

When moving to a new area it is important to find a good hairdresser, especially for the ladies! Karen who for all the years I have known her has kept her hair short and a good cut is very important.

Luckily in our little village there is such a hairdresser, Arielle.

She has come up with an idea, really just for a bit of fun, for people to choose the best haircut and she asked Karen to be one of the candidates which is quite a complement. As it has turned out she is the only candidate who actually lives in the village so that is a double complement!

So in just over two weeks time, the votes will be counted and the winner announced.

A 'Grande soiree' is planned with as many as 200 people expected as well as the local newspaper and radio station. Of course as you would expect in France food and wine will also be laid on.

Watch this space for the result!
It's nice to feel part of the village!

Spring is in the air!

2011-03-09T23:26:00.002+01:00

We have returned from holiday to the most wonderful weather, cool at night but clear blue skies by day encouraging the cherry blossom to come out and take over as the Almond blossom fades.

This is cherry blossom.

Whilst this is Almond blossom - can you tell the difference?

Spring daffodils on our terrace, a true sign spring has sprung!

Remember typically Provence is 10 degrees warmer than southern UK, so that is why it was 18 degrees today. And typically we have 300 days of sunshine - I am not sure the UK competes on that one!

April is even better, Cherry blossom everywhere and temperatures of 20 degrees or more.

Even we can get it wrong!

2011-03-09T23:12:00.001+01:00

After our first week away we were due to transfer to a second villa for the next fortnight. Between the six of us, we had spent many hours surfing the internet looking for that perfect property. The right location, the right accommodation, the right view and the right price! We also used the help of a local managing agent. And we still got it wrong!

Whilst we were there the Bequia Music festival took place, most enjoyable.

Janet, Karen and Simon enjoying themselves.

What was unnerving at the time was we suddenly became homeless, we had vacated the first villa, stocked up on 'provisions', had the important wine and beer delivered only to find the property totally unsuitable for 6 people. One of the bedrooms was , well not a bedroom, and the beach access had been closed off.

The beach at Friendship Bay where our hotel was located.

So an urgent meeting was held to decide a plan of action. We managed to take refuge at a nearby hotel and with the help of the villa agency and internet sourced another property which we hoped would tick all the right boxes!

Our new pool , perfect for sun sets!!

And it did, we could walk to the town, watch the boats come and go, enjoy the pool and the services of the owner who lives next door, this even includes the option of a day sailing in his Yacht! I think we came up trumps!

A great view from our home 'Octopussy'

Jack's bar on Princess Margaret's beach where we enjoyed many lunches

During our time here we enjoyed strolling around the local produce shops and food market, swimming and snorkeling from some gorgeous beaches including Princess Margaret's Beach, some memorable food especially the Lobster Pizza and the basic but cheap food served on the former set of the Film 'Pirates of the Caribbean' in St Vincent.

From here we had a rather 'turbulent' week! Our sea crossing from Bequia to Union Island was in rough seas, and then from Union to Palm in even rougher seas in what I can only describe as a a tin bath or the staff Ferry. I really thought my time had come!

The staff boat, note the central motor and water protection.

Palm is a private island of just 35 acres and when the sunshines it is truly magical.

Our home for four nights on Palm.

One of the local residents

Having just got over the bad weather and crossing we boarded our yacht which at the last minute was switched from a Catamaran to a mono-hull with skipper and chief. It had been due to take us to Grenada over four days.

This is the smallest habited island in the world! just one person lives there and it is a bar!

With stunning views and sunsets

Instead we were blessed with an unqualified skipper who preferred smoking something strange and drinking rum punches! as a result of which when Karen got into difficulties snorkeling in the Tobago Cays there was nobody keeping an eye out and able to help her, thank goodness for the skipper of another boat who picked her up.

The Tobago Cays with turquoise waters.

On the penultimate day as we left Chatham Bay, off Union Island our boat hit either rocks or a reef and came to a shuddering halt . We ended the charter there and then, and subsequently received all our money back, small consolation in the scheme of what might have happened.

Windsong II our yacht in Chatham harbour before disaster struck!

We were now once again faced with re routing and working out how to get to Grenada from Union and our best option was to take a private boat. We found the skipper - 'Tiger'! and thought we found his boat, but as we went to board it was rather smaller than we anticipated. Moral of that story, check exactly which boat the skipper owns! And so we headed off across the sea getting completely soaked to Carriacou where we finally took a sensible ferry to Grenada!

Tiger preparing our water taxi!

Crossing the water

Grenada is a lovely island and from our hotel we had a great view of the beach and ocean. It is also a rain forest which means when it rains, it does, for almost five days!

Arriving in Grenada. Happy to be on dry land!

The beach outside our hotel and view out to sea.

Perfect for sunsets!

And our final destination, Barbados where we happily installed ourselves in some friends apartment to get over all the excitement and prepare for the return to home!

A nice out look from our apartment in Sugar Hill.

And great beaches, this is Mullins on the West Coast

Our impressions of the Caribbean - wonderful in winter, never to hot, typically 28 degrees and low 20's at night. Great beeches and sea for snorkeling, swimming etc. reasonable value, prices much in line with Europe, cheapest meal was under ten pounds ahead, dearest sixty. Everyone was relaxed and friendly, but some folks took a little warming up to get the best from them.

Duty Free shop could do with up dating!

Welcome!

Don't look at the words behind!

Happier times on the boat.

Fun times.

No comment!

And we missed - the view from our home, our cats, friends, French bread and decent coffee.

everyone needs a break!

2011-01-28T23:15:00.000+01:00

We are taking a break from the sunny but cold blue skies of Provence to visit and explore the Caribbean with some friends. After flying to Barbados we took a local plane to the island of Bequia.

Our villa has a lovely pool and over looks the island of Mustique.

The harbour at Bequia,

Dining with our friends, Janet & Simon and D'artagnan & Linda.

Taking sundowners with the neighbour introduced to us by a friend in Germany - it is a small world!

myself having a green day with the guys.

It's a wonderful crazy world!

2011-01-16T20:01:00.000+01:00

We spent a great week in England last week celebrating Karen's Mum's 80th birthday.

Clearly the family have good gene's ! here is Karen with Joan and also her sister Janet.

As well as visiting my sister in Wales and a day in London we even managed a visit to the seaside!

But oh were we so pleased to come home to the rather balmy weather of Provence where we recorded a temperature on the terrace of 28 degrees!

Even the BBQ came out - nothing better than lunch with friends on a Sunday in January.