The world of travel to all of our outstanding destinations

Christmas in Provence: The 13 Desserts

Christmas in Provence includes the 13 Desserts. Learn what they are and how they are presented.

In Provence there is a special Christmas culinary tradition.

In Provence there is a special Christmas culinary tradition. Family and friends share 13 simple local delicacies at the end of the Christmas Eve dinner. Curious? Follow us as we tell you about this quite recent, but catchy, Provencal custom.

The story begins at the foot of Mount Garlaban in the town of Aubagne … and always finishes in our plates!

treize_desserts_noel.jpg

In Provence, connecting religious symbolism to food has always been an important part of Christmas. So at the beginning of the XXth century a group of townsfolk in Aubagne decided to pair up a selection of 13 regional desserts as representations of Christ and the 12 apostles. The point was to highlight the delightful local specialties and imbue them with religious significance while also showing family and friends that you were wealthy enough and/or well organized enough to make it through winter with ease, and thus could share your bounty with your holiday guests. The desserts are presented and eaten on Christmas eve and the leftovers stay on the table for the next 3 days. Everyone picks from the table what they like. 

Now, how about we discover what they are?

aubagne copie.jpg

A long list of magical delicacies!

mendiants.jpg

The list of 13 elements is not precise. But there are 6 that you’ll be sure to find on the table each time. Of these 6 specific desserts, 4 represent religious orders: nuts or hazelnuts (Augustinians), dried figs (Franciscans), almonds (Carmes) and raisins (Dominicans).


And 2 are simply delicious: black and white nougat and pompe à l’huile which is an oily flat bread.

Other than these 6 essential items, there is a series of elements from which you can choose from in order to complete your farandole of 13 desserts:

-       Dried and sugared fruits

-       Calissons d’aix, which are candy-like delicacies made with almond paste and sugar

-       Fried cakes like oreillettes and beignet, similar to doughnuts

dessert 1.jpg

-       Candied fruit

-       Clementines

-       Quince paste

-       Apple and pears

-       Prunes

-       Oranges (which are a symbol of wealth)

-       Orange blossom Fougasse, which is also a kind of flat bread.

-       White grapes

-       Almond-based cake

 

What an interesting combination! And even if it’s not at Christmas time, we often browse the markets and offer tastes of some of these local specialties, especially things like the calissons, quince paste and the candied fruits of Apt. Want to learn, see, taste or do more? Look at our website!

dessert 2.jpg
Read More

Tour France: Fall Vacation in Provence (Chateauneuf du Pape & Luberon)

Tour France: Fall Vacation in Provence (Chateauneuf du Pape & Luberon)We arrived a few days ago. The weather has been crisp and cool, with sun just at the right times.Paris: Walking and photographing.The vines were changing when we arrived in Provence.We tasted in Chateauneuf du Pape --after a gourmet lunch in the village --filled with top wines. Thank you Andre!Tarte Tatin. Though not a "Provencal" recipe, is quite common in fall. Apples are everywhere.And a walk through the "mines" where the Provencal pigmentation is found. That's what gives the buildings in Provence their wonderful and characteristic colors.Come with us in May for our Provence trip. Contact us if you'd like more information. Only small groups. No buses. Custom itineraries and flexible schedules. Plenty of independent time as well as much to do with us if you choose..

Read More

Tour France: Gourmet Travel & Provence Picnics

Tour France: Gourmet Travel and Provencal PicnicsWarning: Drooling likely. Have snack handy.Anyone who's going to France is aware of the reputation France has for outstanding cuisine. The produce, the cheeses, breads, desserts, even meats are world renown. One of the single best ways to experience what France (and more specifically) Provence has to offer is to make and/or join in for a real picnic. Here are some photos of our absolute favorite picnic lunches. Some are self made. Some are offered by tiny out of the way auberges, and some are custom from our chefs. Try not to drool on your screen as you scroll through these mouthwatering treats.

Roast pork (from the farm) with rosemary potatoes, and house made goat's cheesesWines, proscuitto, peppers, zucchini all made up the meal as we sat at this gorgeous mountain top locale.Prepping for our own picnics in a local kitchen

If you'd like to experience one --or more-- of these culinary fantasies, contact us now. We have ONE room left on our October Fall Foliage trip to Provence (and Chateauneuf du Pape) and we are booking rooms for next May in Provence!Contact us now. Wendy@blisstravels.com 

Read More

October in Provence and Chateauneuf du Pape

Bliss Travels
wendy@blisstravels.com
609 462 6213
www.blisstravels.com
Bliss Travels News (Blog)
Welcome to the Bliss Travels Newsletter
Bonjour from France!
Summer is in full swing and we have some exciting photographs to share. Don't miss our October trip to Paris and Provence, where we will highlight Chateauneuf du Pape, fall foliage and the beautiful Luberon region of Provence. Photographer Anthony Bianciella will once again partner with us on our exciting adventure. Off the beaten track, insider experiences...And the chance to preserve those memories with spectacular photographs.

Wine & Photo Pairing 
- like wine and cheese but lasts longer!
Fall Foliage

Join us on this one of a kind trip to the wine region of Châteauneuf du Pape. We'll explore delicious wines, dine in wonderful authentic locales, visit beautiful villages and take amazing photosOur October trip is designed for those who like to learn a little while they enjoy the finer things in life. All along the journey, we will provide information about the region, details about French wines and French cuisine and even help you take great photos of the experience so you can bring your memories home with you.Our low-key approach is like having a friend with special expertise  traveling with you as you explore these spellbinding destinations. As a small group, you will have personalized attention and the level and type of activity that you prefer. No prerequisites to join this trip! Your desire to see and do things that most tourists never get to experience is all you need! Whether you are a novice or expert --photographer or wine lover -- this trip is something special. (Don't believe us, look at our client testimonials.)Just sit back and enjoy the ride. We'll help you navigate the beautiful landscape and ensure that you will see and experience things that only an insider could see and do.For more information and a full itinerary, please visit our website at Bliss Travels (www.blisstravels.com)

What some of our most recent clients say:
" We really had a great trip, you made it all come together so nicely, picked a perfect hotel and a fantastic mix of restaurants.  You made all of the planning so easy and stress free.  The tours of the sites, gardens and museums was perfect ... we feel that we really got to "know" Paris in just a few days. Thanks again ... we look forward to planning a return trip with you..." (BB, Stamford Conn. June/July 2012)
"I had a super time and the whole adventure was a wonderful experience.  From the tours, site seeings and all the delicious food. I will always have great memories of my vacation in France. You made it all happen for me. Thank you very much for everything." (WR, New Jersey June/July 2012)
 
We hope to see you soon!
Wendy Jaeger
Owner, Bliss Travels

 

In This Issue
October in Provence
Wines: Chateauneuf du Pape
Quick Links

The Wines of Chateauneuf du Pape
Chateauneuf du Pape has world renown red wines, full of flavor. Grenache is top grape here! Big wines! Not many people know that they also make truly excellent whites. The wines themselves are made from a selection of 13 grapes and each winemaker has his own combination. What a treat to try! Imagine visiting in fall just after harvest. The perched village with castle ruins surrounded by brilliant fall foliage, and the crisp fall air perfect for leisurely walks and sightseeing.  wendy@blisstravels.com
Join Our Mailing List
Save$200
per room on either Christmas Week in Paris or May trip to Provence if you book before September 1, 2012. Contact wendy@blisstravels. and put "$200, Early Booking" in your subject line.
Offer Expires: August 31, 2012
This email was sent to wendy@blisstravels.com by wendy@blisstravels.com |
Bliss Travels | 3 Hemlock Court | Princeton | NJ | 08540
Read More

Tour France: Culinary Bliss

Tour France: Culinary Bliss!Our trip highlights always include culinary adventures. This trip is no exception. A spectacular tasting menu, a private luncheon, even a special cafe...whether formal or casual, it's truly Bliss!Foie Gras...compote....what more can we say?Marscapone ravioli with parmesan foam make the perfect accompaniment --Tomatoes and an incredible fresh ceviche in an almond milk...squab, cherries, and rhubarb....A nice finish to the day! 

Read More

Tour Provence: Vacation in Provence in a Day!

Tour Provence: Vacation in Provence in a Day!

From the ancient ruins you can freely climb through --to photography, to hiking, to pondering n'importe quoi... or just to put out a blanket and enjoy the view...

To the village panoramas...To the life within...Why not open the door on a new adventure. It's Bliss!

Come with us...

But first, read what others have to say...Don't take  our word for it.

After you are through, book our last room. Watch the lavender flower, and experience the fragrance when a field is cut...It permeates the air for a quarter mile around it!

July 17-22 Provence (possible early arrival for Paris too!)

or

July 28-August 4 (Mediterranean and Paris) This trip is not advertised. It's a small private trip. contact us for details wendy@blisstravels.com

Read More

Tour France: A Mediterranean Adventure

Tour France: A Mediterranean Adventure. It's BlissSummer vacations involve the beach, for sure. But, what many people don't know is that there are stunning beaches, with world class views, and great dining --on the Mediterranean, that don't break the bank --and still make you feel like you're in a fairy tale land (which you are).Hope you enjoy these photos --as we continue to Tour France.

The view from here:looks like this:And this...as you watch the boats go by. This is a little sailing school. Too Cute!look carefully --there's a castle at the mid point of the cliffs (top of the lower cliff). Staying there is quite an experience.One room left in mid July and one in August. Contact us toute de suite to book.

wendy@blisstravels.com 609 462 6213.

Read More

Tour France: Summer Colors Provence & Mediterranean

Tour France: Summer Colors

Provence and the Mediterranean. It's the most colorful, tasty time of year. Vibrant is the word that best expresses the summer. Long, languid, yet energizing. Enjoy the photos below. Taking them was Bliss!

Dancing in the streets...for every holiday, summer festival and so fun to do and watch!Clear blue, peaceful...A favorite place to promenade and watch the street performers.dining on the mussels, beachfront on the island

a bientôt! Hope to see you this summer. Contact us for more information

Read More

Tour France: Spring in Paris & Provence

Tour France: Spring in Paris and ProvenceWhat a whirlwind arrival. Talk about "hitting the ground running". What a beautiful day! Sights galore. Wonderful views. It was bliss!Let's orient ourselves to Paris.Two of our professional photographers. Anthony's trips with us are great!! And Michel is tops! They are both enjoying the mid day sunshine!Of course, they might be smiling because of their lunch!Then, of course, the photographers in our group started snapping away --while the rest of us admired our surroundings.To finish the day, we enjoy a non touristy rooftop view and a glass of rose....It was Bliss!What us to save you a space on one of our summer trips --Bastille Day? August Lavender season? Let us know now! wendy@blisstravels.com

Read More

Tour France: Find Out About Summer Vacation in Provence (Bastille Day)

Tour France: Summer Vacation in Provence is spectacular.Sunflowers. We stopped by the side of the road to photograph the sunflower fields.

Provencal Markets --All sorts of great foods and treats (see our earlier blog about how to shop the markets).

This particular Lavender field was a field we walked to --it was in a hidden, off road place. Up in the hills are Roman ruins that are not excavated, and also below --about a 1/2 mile walk is a watering hold where we went swimming. Not a tourist spot at all. In fact, a local friend showed it to us.

And, Bastille Day! What is Bastille Day and what are Bastille Day celebrations like?

See our next post. We're going to tell you all about the fun activities and what you can do in France during BASTILLE DAY 2012.

A Bientôt,Bliss Travels!

Read More

Provence Foods! Goat Cheeses - the "insider experience"

French cheeses. No other country produces more cheese!I have a number of clients who come on trips and say they love French cheese, but not goat cheeses. I have NO clients who leave us after a trip and haven't found at least one goat cheese they absolutely love! It's true 100% of the time.

We have some great insider experiences we've offered to "foodies" who want to explore cheeses. Below is a selection of carefully chosen goat cheeses from 3 local artisan producers, along with local figs, that we provided for a private lunch.

This begins our private visit to a very small local goat farm and artisan cheese producer. She makes the best fresh goat cheeses in the area. The flavor changes depending upon the time of day and also the season the animal is milked. Some of the cheeses are seasoned with herbs or peppercorns. Some are plain.

There are different goat cheeses made in each area. One of the best, and hardest to find in the US is Banon --a goat cheese wrapped and aged in chestnut leaves. We usually have this as a cheese course in a tiny auberge we go to. The texture of these cheeses depends greatly on its age.If you find French cheese Bliss, then maybe you ought to visit Provence.--Wendy

Read More

What is Insider Access & Insider Photos from Provence & Burgundy

What is "insider access"?

and why you should care!
Insider experiences are things that you can't do on your own. They are little known, out of the way experiences, or they are things not open to the general public (and arranged especial for you).
As you can see from our photos, that's what Bliss Travels is all about.
Perhaps you'd like to eat at a restaurant that isn't filled with tourists --maybe one that is only opened for you?
Or experience a custom wine tasting in a private venue?Private Tasting of Chateauneuf du Pape
Have a Michelin starred restaurant prepare a special tasting menu or private room? 
Visit the bell tower of a Knight's Templar church (not open to the public) with the curate?
Have a Provencal cooking class on a farm instead of a "sterile" kitchen?
Have a private chef prepare a superb picnic for a train ride to the South of France or to eat under a Roman bridge?
 train picnic
Enjoy a custom barrel tasting in a cellar with the winemaker? 
Visit a tiny little known gem of a village?
We think this makes travel special and that's why we do it. And we do it for very small groups --usually 6-8 people. Never more than 12.
Not every exclusive access experience is about "money" or big names. Though sometimes they include those sorts of destinations. These are really the sorts of things you can't "buy" with a deluxe credit card because they are not mass market  (even platinum and black cards) and they are not about commerce.   They are about time and effort and relationships.
You get them because you've got a "friend" with an "in"! So, if you want to have an authentic, hard to find cultural experience and interact with people in a way that goes beyond having them make change for you when you purchase a souvenir, then you want to experience Bliss!
September: all rooms full. 1 suite left (closing out May 10th)
October: 4 rooms only
June 10 -full
June 29: 1 room
July and August: 3 rooms.
Read More

A Perfect Day in Provence with "Insider Access"

One of our favorite days...A lunch in a small village, following a private wine tasting, in a cave from the 1400's. The meal is custom to the group and the company is amazing. It's Bliss. The amazing photos were taken by Anthony Bianciella (he co leads our photography trips and chronicles our adventures).
Our group of 8 was welcomed to a candle lit room with music playing. We had 4 wines from the Cote du Rhone. This tasting focuses on Chateauneuf du Pape. Some focus on Provencal Roses. We design each one for the people who are attending.
From the Kitchen area of our chefHer private work space!A special meal was prepared for everyone. Some had a duck confit. Some had orange and fennel salad with a fish wrapped in parchment.Our fabulous host came to see us off!
Read More

7 Photo Categories (contest): Spring/Summer in Provence

"Bliss - Full" photos of Spring and Summer in Provence, the LuberonPlease give us caption suggestions --either in comments or via email. We will post our favorites and  give you credit --and link to your blog if you are chosen!A Bientôt,Wendy1. Sunflowers!

2. Painted buildings --from colors mined in Provence.

3. Color co ordinated flower boxes!4. Happy couples  -dare we say "blissful"?

5. Lavender cakes --yes, you heard right. These are absolutely wonderful --and only found here!6. The amazing cliffs, and the unbelievable, otherworldly blue of the water.

6. The fabulous chefs we get to watch, work with, and whose specialties we adore!

7. Wines, and where they come from!

Read More

Provence (Luberon) Special July/August Itineraries!

A perfect week in July or August --These are truly special travel itineraries with exclusive access to events and activities not available anywhere else. One for a week of festivals, fireworks and bull fights. The other for a week of Luberon experiences with option to attend photography, painting or cooking lessons. Tell us what you would do differently (or in addition)! wendy@blisstravels.comBastille Week -  Day 1: Tuesday, July 10th-           Pick up Avignon 2pm and transfer to Provencal inn in a Medieval village.-            A selection of local aperitifs and a privately guided walking tour through a medieval village and private tour of a 1000 year old church, not usually open to the public.***-            3 course, gourmet “welcome” dining experience at an authentic Provencal restaurant.**Day 2: Wednesday, July 11-            Gourmet breakfast-            Private transport to a perched Medieval village. Explore the ruins and the church, and wander through the gardens below. Panoramic views of the countryside-             Private wine tasting of wines from Chateauneuf du Pape and  lunch in a 500 year old bakery not open to the public. The chef prepares a  4 course gourmet menu, specially designed by Bliss Travels. ***-            Visit an artisan jam and sorbet maker in her home garden behind her olive grove and vineyard. Learn how this artisan works and taste her products.-            Visit a winery and museum (The nearby village is where Peter Mayle lived when he wrote “A Year in Provence”.)­Dinner on your ownDay 3: Thursday, July 12-            Gourmet breakfast-            Visit the largest antiques market outside of Paris to shop and stroll the stalls. And, visit one of the deepest springs in the world. Tour the spring and the nearby ancient paper mill **OR-            Or,  take the morning to relax then spend the afternoon in a cooking lesson with a famous area chef, followed by a multi course gourmet dinner**

(Private transportation and translation/guide provided for both. 6 people for antiques market required.)

 Day 4: Friday, July 13-           Gourmet breakfast-           Tour a village designated as one of France’s “most beautiful" during  market day and visit the restored Chateau. Learn about the village’s illustrious history (home to Albert Camus and Henri Bosco)**-           Special gourmet picnic on the Chateau grounds, and a tasting of area olive oils and goat cheeses will be included with the picnic**-           Afternoon back at your hotel to relax, shop, hike or sightsee-           Dinner on your own Days 5 and 6: Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15-            Gourmet breakfast, with fresh baked breads and croissants, jams, local fruits, yogurt, coffee/tea and juices-            Go to St. Remy for Bastille Day for the weekend festivities-            Check into a luxury boutique property in the town center.  (Hotel has private gardens and a pool with magnificent views)-            A private guide to take you through the sites and also help you to choose things you can do on your ownWeekend festivities include:-            Markets and street fairs-            Bull fights (Tickets must be ordered in advance)-            Running of the bulls in the streets and cowboys herding the bulls in the streets (You will be accompanied to these, and all the traditions will be explained)-            Parades and evening dancing-            A group meal hosted by the town (eat with the locals)-            FireworksIn addition, you may tour the galleries and museums with a private guide or independently.  Nostradamus lived in St Remy. Van Gogh lived and painted in St Remy (his sanatorium is in the village). There is an important archeological dig and there are Roman ruins in several locations nearby.-            Celebrate with a tasting menu at a Michelin starred restaurant. Dinner and wines includedDay 7: Monday, July 16After breakfast, you will be taken to the Avignon train station where our trip ends.All inclusive Provence:  and  $3,100 (without antiques market trip) to $3,300 per person in a double room.--ONE room at $2,900 per person.609 462 6213. wendy@blisstravels.com

AUGUST ITINERARY -special extras, painting lessons by a renown Provencal painter, photography tips and on the spot sessions, hikes, Roman ruins and independent time to relax!

This trip is exclusive to a private group of 12 until the end of April.

Sunday, August 5:-Pick up in Avignon at the TGV station. Private transfer to hotel/inn with stop for an olive oil tasting, at a working olive oil mill originally used by the Romans-Privately guided walking tour through a medieval village, and a privately guided tour through a 1000 year old church with foundations made of Roman stone (not usually open to the public)*** (optional photography lesson)- Have a gourmet dining experience under the starsMonday, August 6: -        Breakfast, with fresh baked breads and croissants, jams, local fruits, yogurt, cheeses, cereal and coffee/tea and juices.-        Private transport to a tiny Medieval village. Hike to the top of the village to visit the ruins, and the church, or wander through the gardens below. You will have panoramic views of the countryside-        A private lunch in a 500 year old bakery, opened just for use –with a specially planned meal of 3 courses and local wines (and an optional private wine tasting in the cave –no charge). ***-        Visit a 2,000 year old Roman bridge and learn about the Roman roads in the area (optional photo tips)-        Dinner on your own in the villageTuesday, August 7: -        Breakfast.-        Learn to paint***/**** or have 1 on 1 photography instruction.  Capture the Provencal landscape with a renown Provencal painter or with our professional photographer-        Local color: a 2 course café lunch at a local cafe-        Visit the Bories village (ancient structures)  or hike the cedar forest.Wednesday, August 8-        Breakfast, with fresh baked breads and croissants, jams, local fruits, yogurt, cheeses, cereal and coffee/tea and juices.-        Visit the local Ocher mines.  (This is where Provencal pigments are found). Take one of the walking tours and then explore the art in the village and enjoy a lunch on your own.  (optional photography session --color)-        Afternoon/evening on your own to wonder the village, swim, hike or relax.Thursday, August 9: -        Breakfast-        Option for a  second painting lesson or photography session*** /****-        Lunch on your own-        Private transport to a village designated at one of France’s most beautiful. Learn about the village’s illustrious history (home to Albert Camus and Henri Bosco). Tour the beautifully restored chateau-        An early dinner in the form of a gourmet picnic on the Chateau grounds is included** and you have the option to remain to hear a piano concert in the Chateau that evening.  (Additional cost for tickets, and tickets are limited and subject to availability)Friday, August 10:-        Breakfast-        Visit the local Provencal market set up outside your door.  (If you are traveling as a family, the kids/teens will have their own outing to the market this morning.) (optional food photography)Choice to:visit a secluded family run Auberge, built into the base of the cliffs that surround you.  Enjoy an authentic, traditional Provencal lunch and sip the local wines. Afterwards, you can hike through the ruins of a fort more than 1000 years old.Or,  spend the late afternoon in a cooking lesson followed by a multi course dinner with wine pairing. **-        (For families, kids/teens can also have a special local cooking lesson of more kid friendly specialties followed by their own dinner at the inn).***Saturday, August 11:-        Breakfast-        Tour the largest most beautiful market in Provence. Pick up your gifts and favorites for a picnic on the train back to Paris.Private transfer to the TGV  station in Avignon where our trip ends. Priced from $2,900 per person, all inclusive Provence.609 462 6213. wendy@blisstravels.com to get on the list for a spot. 

Read More

5 Reasons Why July 10-20 Are the Best Summer Weeks in Provence!

The best time to go to Provence. People always ask me that. The answer --well, apart from "anytime" --might not surprise you. For summer time, the best time is July 10-20. And here are my  top reasons:1. Bastille Day in Provence! Paris is Paris. And Bastille Day is quite an event. But, in Provence, in certain towns and small cities, they have the running of the bulls through the streets. Imagine sitting at a cafe, having a rose, or coffee, and watching the French cowboys herd bulls through the Medieval streets. The boys and young men jump the barrier and chase the bull trying to hold onto his tail. And there are bull fights (the kind where the bull is not hurt.)

2. Fireworks over a castle or ancient fort. When the night sky lights up a castle and then the fireworks pop up over that, that might even be better than the Eiffel Tower. (This is a hard choice to make!)

3. It's prime festival season. There are wine festivals, village fetes and all manner of special celebrations. Even a melon festival! That means there are parades, special markets, special tastings and lit up village squares where you dance the night away!

4. The best beach weather! The Mediterranean is great in July. The weather is great. The excitement level is wonderful. The sky is blue. And there are street shows to watch almost every evening -as you have your dinner outside looking at the sparkling sea.5. Lavender. Need I say more? You are assured of lavender all July --and first half of August (depending upon the weather that season. And you are assured of lavender related festivals and special events!

Of course, we love Provence almost all year round! It's Bliss!

Read More

Paris & Luberon (Provence) See Who Rates it Top Place to Visit

It occurred to me the other day that all the experts and large publications rank vacations and destinations. So, I decided to do some research. And, you know what? Paris, Provence and the French Riviera dominate every list and every writer's mind.Here is how SIX experts rate France in 2012 (I had to narrow it down or I'd be writing all day!)1. The New York Times writes about Provence regularly --several times a year, waxing poetic about its incomparable beauty and superior dining and lifestyle.2. US Travel & News Report Paris #1 Best Vacations in 2012.3. National Geographic Luberon (Provence) Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime in 2012

4. Travel Channel rated (Paris) a top destination in 2012
5. Weather Channel chooses a St Tropez beach as among the 10 best in the world, and other spots in France as among the best food, wine, and most romantic --on each of their top 10 lists.
6. Without Borders lists 5 places in FRANCE as among their 100 Most Beautiful Places in the World.
Below is a taste of what makes France so Blissful.
That the local restaurant uses this fountain to fill their water carafes --and so do we!
You can taste fruits and FINE wines at this stand by the side of the road (I once tasted 30 year old wines here --believe it or not! I came in for a melon and left 3 hours later after tasting about 16 incredible vintages...and buying a few!)
Villages really do look like this from your bedroom window and as you walk to market!
Lavender. The Lavender Festival. The Markets. The bounty!
Art: Whether you're looking or making!
(by Michel --our talented artist in Paris!)
And, my favorite of all: Poppies in May!
Read More

Insider Tips on Paying for & Planning a Trip to Provence (Luberon)

I'm going to share some "tricks of the trade".  When you book that vacation to one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, France --specifically Provence and Paris, there are many things professionals think of that you don't consider. So, to get the most out of that "trip of a lifetime" to one of those "must see" places, see below for special tips from Bliss Travels. They could save you more than $1,000, not to mention give you peace of mind.FIVE FINANCIAL THINGS TO CONSIDERRemember the added costs.Look at what's included and not included.Sometimes people decide to book their own trips -sort of a la carte -- so that they can do exactly what they want and also "get a better deal". Sometimes, people use search engines or decide to book through someone --whether it's a huge clearinghouse or a small boutique company. No matter what you decide don't forget to include (or ask if THEY include):1. Train tickets to Provence (from Paris or elsewhere). (The best train deals are found in French on French websites and in France itself. You won't find them on sites here.)2. Transfers to get you to the Paris train station and back -whether you want a private car, will take a cab or prefer to navigate the subway.  (Time, stress, and money are all considerations)3. A last night in a Paris hotel. Special tip: Most trains from Provence into Paris do not arrive in time for you to take your flight home to the US the same day. Many large internet travel sellers don't tell you this. After you book, you find you'll need  train tickets, extra hotel nights, transfers....So the "deal" wasn't all that great once you discovered the "extras".4. Ground transportation while in Provence. There are no trains in the Luberon, and almost none in the Cote du Rhone. Anyway, the most beautiful villages, sought after vineyards, and stunning coast line are not (for the most part) on the direct train route. Cars are very expensive. Roads are unmarked (except highways) AND it can cost more than 150 dollars to fill a tank of gas in a large rental car. Major roads have very expensive tolls --really. It's not uncommon to pay 20 euros/30 dollars for a toll. Figure this as you budget or compare travel packages.5. While most people do remember they have food costs, they often forget they are dealing with an exchange rate --so multiply your budget by 1.4 (or so) to get the amount of dollars you will really need so that you don't go over your budget. If you're buying a package, make sure to find out what meals are included, and what type of meal (is it a sandwich and a bottle of water or is it a 3 course meal with wines and coffee...)? Whether you do it yourself or book an all inclusive trip, it's a nice balance to have one "big meal" --the traditional 3 courses with wine, and then shop the markets for that "other" meal. Not only does it "balance the budget", it's a great way to try the local fare and enjoy the bounty that is Provence!There are more tips, and I'm happy to answer questions too (wendy@blisstravels.com) , but this should get you thinking realistically about your trip costs and better able to compare "apples to apples" as the saying goes.FOUR VACATION TIPS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR ENJOYMENT1. Make sure you situate yourself in a convenient place, one, hopefully, that's beautiful, centrally located, but also authentic and not a "tourist trap". Go for the lesser publicized places.2. Pack light. Rooms are small. Cars are small. Travel is easier --especially train travel --if you can just wheel a little case through the station instead of wrestling with tons of things you don't need. Hint: pack a folding travel bag like a Longchamps bag in your case. That way, if you do buy things to take home it's no trouble.3. Don't move around too much. If you are taking a typical 8-9 night trip --your first night is on the plane. Your last night is in Paris (or elsewhere) so that you are there in time to get that (typically) morning flight home. That gives you 6-7 nights. Stay in 1-2 places. One for 4-5 nights, the other for 2 nights. It gives you variety without hassle. And, it cuts down on endless day trips -which, if you're doing it yourself, can be very tiring.4. Consider booking at least part of your trip (the part not in a large city) with a (boutique --not tour bus size) all inclusive company so you don't have to navigate roads, take tons of time figuring out what to do and where to go, and so you can just relax and have somebody there to help you make the most of your vacation time! (It also gives you the added budgetary advantage of knowing exactly what your costs are --as long as you've done your homework above.)BUT if you do book with someone-- make sure you will not be herded around with a big group, that you are not staying so far away from things like a village or town center that you are held captive by the groups' schedule, and that you find someone who will listen to your specific interests and ideas when planning. Find someone that will allow you to have a flexible schedule, and as much independent time as you want.And, most of all, Bon Voyage! We wish you a Blissful vacation!

Read More

5 Things To Do and Appreciate in Provence!

What do you do in Provence? Lots. What make the top of the "Bliss" list?1. Festivals. Of the local kind. We have our favorites, built around our favorite foods or products. The French celebrate every quality crop and artisan product from cherries to melon to wines....Find the best of the local festivals and street fairs and enjoy the pomp and the weekend.2. Bulls. (No not that kind!) Not many people know about the bull fights, the running of the bulls and the other "cowboy" activities. Find the best time and spot to combine all of these. And see something most people don't ever get to see!3. Roman ruins. Most people don't realize that France has ruins of many thousands of years of age. And, they aren't behind glass, walled off, or patrolled by park guards. They are a wide open part of the countryside and landscape and they can be built into your daily experience. For example, we often take the 2,000 year old Roman road (or the ruins of that road) on our walk into the village for market day. We picnic on a more than 2,000 year old Roman bridge --and go swimming in a hidden swimming hole that's part of a more than 2,000 year old Roman aquaduct.4. Art. Practically every major painter lived and/or painted in this area. Renoir had a home here. Van Gogh lived here. Cezanne too. Chagall. Yep. Cocteau painted, or rather, drew, a chapel. Matisse. Picasso. Leger. The list is endless. Being able literally "see" what they "saw" is eye opening and helps you to both appreciate and understand their art.4. Nature.  For seasonal wonders, spring might even outdo summer --though it's a close call! Poppies and cherry blossoms are ethereal. But, lavender is pretty remarkable too! You decide!5. And nature's bounty! Nowhere else can you eat like you do in France. The simplest things will shock you with the intensity of their flavor. Knowing the origin of your cherry or egg or tomato was only a few yards away, and picked moments earlier only adds to the enjoyment.And that's just for starters. Hope your spring or summer vacation is Blissful.

Read More

Top 4 Reasons to Visit Provence in May!

4 Reasons to Visit Provence in May.Of course, there are many more than 4  reasons. But, let's just look at the top 4!

1. Beautiful Spring Scenery! May is the time for poppies, cherry blossoms, almond blossoms, and all sorts of spring flowers.

2. Space and warmth! ...You beat the crowds and enjoy the season's first picnics!

3. Everything is new. Spring vegetables are appearing in the markets.

4.It's Bliss! Experiences most tourists don't have. Exclusive access events and opportunities. Do what you want --at your pace.  Everything custom designed with ease! May 15-21, 2012

Read  what our clients have to say!

Contact us now to reserve your spot. May 15--21, 2012. wendy@blisstravels.com. 609 462 6213.
Read More