Tour France: October in Provence (video)

October in Provence...

On our recent trip to Provence we visited the Luberon and Chateauneuf du Pape.What was extra special about this trip though was that people had the option to participate in daily photography workshops/sessions before or after sightseeing, and also that we had professional photographer, Anthony Bianciella traveling with us full time. That meant that he was always there to offer help and advice, or simply take on the spot photos for people. (Isn't it nice to be in your own vacation photos for a change?)Of course, before we sped down to beautiful Provence via TGV train, we spent a little time in Paris. Walking, sightseeing, photographing...and, mais oui, dining -in this case, on the season's first truffles. Truffles in a creamy polenta.One of the highlights is always the Provencal scenery. The ruins of Chateauneuf du Pape compete for our attention with the changing colored vines, and the gorgeous Medieval villages... Hard to choose which is the best view.This particular trip included some light hikes through the countryside as well as the ocher mines, sightseeing in various Medieval villages, and a day trip to Chateauneuf du Pape for some truly remarkable wines from some pretty great vintages (Beaucastel, La Nerthe, Vieux Telegraphe, Barroche...to name a few). Click on the "wine" and watch the video Anthony Bianciella made of our trip so that you can take a "virtual vacation" in Provence.Our next trip to Provence with Anthony is this May....Everything will be in bloom. Poppies, iris's, cherry blossoms. It is a gorgeous time of year to go to Provence. Some of Anthony's Spring photos are below. Click on any of the photos to learn more about our May 2013 trip to Provence. It's small, custom and pure Bliss!flower boxes around every corner.spring produce fills the markets.poppy fields everywhere.

Tour France: Food, Wine & Photo Vacations in Provence

Tour France: Food, Wine & Photo Vacations in Provence

Nothing is better, in my opinion, than the food and wine in France. And what better way to continue to enjoy the experience other than to photograph what you are enjoying?The meal begins with an eggplant crumble and some wonderful tapenade. Follow this with braised lamb and kidneys.Chocolate, mais oui!Cafe...apres!And, of course...digestive! Of course, the only "real" choice was the Marc de Chateauneuf du Pape!The perfect end to a lovely day! Bliss!

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..

Tour France: Fall in Burgundy, Paris & Provence

Tour France: Beautiful Regions in FRANCEFall in Burgundy, Paris and ProvenceFall is beautiful in every region in France. We visit 3 regions in France during the fall. It's hard for me to decide which is the most beautiful region of France. Look at our photos below and you can decide!We are in Paris, bien sur. And Paris in the fall is lovely and buzzing with activity. Here are some favorites from Paris. (Think about visiting over the holidays with us.)We visit Burgundy. This year's trip is going to be extraordinary. It's a mix of return and new clients --all food and wine lovers! (We are very very happy about that). The vines are being harvested. And the weather is crisp and cool --perfect for traditional Burgundy fare! (Look for next year's trip --this one is full.)Our favorite winemaker --charly is the BEST and his private tastings with us are spellbinding! Really!Some of the little, lesser known places where the owners proudly share their wine making knowledgeWell --this one is self explanatory!Burgundy architectureOne of our tastings --can't wait for this year's. Camille, the sommelier who will choose the special vintages, has set up a private "chapel" for us to taste and also a private lunch for after. I love this trip!Provence...What can we say? Provence is pure Bliss! Especially if you tour Provence the way we do --small groups. No commercial destinations. Off the beaten track sites AND insider experiences. Our summer was full of those and our October trip will be as well (plus we have Chateauneuf du Pape on the radar for October). ONE room left on this trip.If Burgundy is where our thirst is, Provence is where our heart is!Nothing sings like the Luberon --it just gets into your heart.Of course, the tough choice is always between sea and countryside. Impossible choices :)Yes, this is a real chateau. Yes, it's in Provence!! And yes, they make Chateauneuf du Pape wines here! We walk through the vines after. Here's the view in October. The colors were changing and the light was soft.Beauty everywhere.Wow --our mountain top picnic spot!If you'd like to join us on one of our personalized, small group trips to Provence, we have one room left in October (max 11 guests and 2 leaders, along with private sightseeing, chefs and driver) And 3 rooms left in May 2013. CONTACT us now before these also sell out.wendy@blisstravels.com 609 462 6213

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! 

Tour Provence: Lavender in Provence

Tour Provence: Lavender SeasonWhat's your favorite color? Well, in summer, my favorite color is lavender. And, right now, it's in full bloom...From the hills of the Luberon to the valleys, the color lavender is everywhere. It's Bliss!Contemplating photos....

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

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.

Tour France: Provencal Perspective

Tour France: Provencal Perspective.Perspective is an interesting thing. Sometimes it refers to your relationship with people, sometimes time, and sometimes the physical environment...In Provence I usually see all three things at once. And that's a good day!Here we are at a typical Provencal lunch. Sure it takes 3 hours...But, it's not like "Thanksgiving dinner". We are not all just dying to lay down on the couch to lessen the "pain" of overeating. Rather, it's a relaxing and integral, yet energizing, part of the dayThere's your perspective AFTER the meal...what do you do? Here's one idea...Though it's certainly not the only good idea, it is one that we find Bliss-ful!(sorry it's sideways-- that's Emmy taking the road less traveled to the top of the cliffs...)Then there's physical perspective --in view and in deed...indeed!To give you some perspective of the size of these cliffs, the above shot was taken from the cliff it faces --at a distance. The bottom two show CLIMBERS on the facing cliff. You must look quite hard --they are the "ant" like things on the rock face!In this shot, the crevice in the rock is actually big enough to camp on --see the people walking inside of it?All of this seems to put life in a better perspective. Bliss is not a "holiday" event or a gift. It should be a regular feature in your life.  Call us when you are ready!609 462 6213 or wendy@blisstravels.com. 2 rooms  in August and October are available. 1 room in July. June and September are full.

Tour France: Experience Provence...like a local

Tour France: Experience Provence...like a local (menu suggestions below)

Wondering down the village roadto visit the local market --set up from the town parking area through the main square, and on several little streets. Not the biggest area market --but a very authentic and less touristy one.Taking our picnic items to a nearby olive grove where we walk along and see the first lavender blooms.peeking in corners at gardens

Paints quite a nice picture of the day --we think it's Bliss

 Picnic Menu: Roast rabbit a la moutarde, artichoke vinaigrette, wood oven baked bread, freshly picked cherries and melons.

Tour France: Best Summer Festivals in Provence (with schedule)

Tour France: Best Summer Festivals in Provence and Festival Schedule.Schedule:Cherry Festivals in mid and late JuneMelon Festival in JulyLavender festivals in late July and AugustBastille Day --July 14Tour de France --July 14 in ProvenceWine and art festivals...July etc.Fete Votives: late June, July and August.Summer is festival season. Provence is full of a huge variety of festivals.There are themed festivals. There is a honey festival, several wine festivals, art festivals, a melon festival, a cherry festival...and pretty much a celebration of any food product you can think of. Below are some photos of past festivals.

Being inducted into the "royal order of the melon". Really.A special melon dish. Lobster or prawns are baked in this one of a kind "plat". We have been privileged to do this with the chef several times.The meal following the festival celebrating the town's release from the dragon.

Walking around the Lavender festival last August.

There are "fetes votives" in each village. Those include things like dancing in the town square to live music, Champagne "stands", carnival games and perhaps even a special market. I love these local festivals. They bring such romance to a Provencal night.The cafes take advantage of the closed roads to set up table everywhere. Bands play on the side walk --trumpets and all!Evening fireworks over a Mediterranean village.There is Bastille Day. This brings a weekend full of festivities. In Paris, it is dominated by parades andfireworks over the Eiffel Tower. In Provence, it is marked by celebratory town wide meals (Pistous and Aiolis), dancing and fireworks in the town centers and huge, luscious markets full of tantalizing treats and products.

Tour France: A Day in Provence

Tour France: Bliss Travels to Authentic Provence. Spectacular views caught by Anthony Bianciella, our talented traveling photographer. One thing that makes us feel "Blissful" is finding beautiful, less populated villages to explore. We build the day around a walk, hike, panorama and, of course, our traditional Provencal lunch. For us, that's why Bliss Travels! The only thing better than springtime in Provence is July in Provence. This is the ultimate "room with a view"!!Some of the smaller villages still use different modes of transportation Emmy meets a new friend!Village roads, old and "new" A walk, followed by lunch --in a tiny restaurant we found off a little alley and side street. Now, it's an annual favorite. Look at yesterday's set menu below Menu of: Burgundian like soft poached egg in red wine and mushroom, fish with saffron, fresh pasta and market veggies, Brie de Meaux and salad, along with dessert, bien surWe sincerely hope you can join us on our next authentic, and off the beaten track adventure! It's Bliss! Please contact us when you are ready for a new sort of travel experience.

Tour France: What is Bastille Day in Provence?

Tour France: What is Bastille Day in Provence?Bastille Day --July 14, is the day the peasantry stormed the Bastille (Paris prison). The revolutionary spark was presumably lit by Marie Antoinette's suggestion  about the starving peasantry to "let them eat cake." Of course, we'll never know her real intent. And, truthfully, by the time the Bastille was "stormed", there weren't many prisoners left. However, the day has become a major celebration in France, much like July 4th is for us in America.Paris is lit up. There are parades, military services and fireworks over the Eiffel Tower. It's truly a sight. But, we find our Bliss in Bastille Day in Provence.If you tour France and have the chance to visit Provence on Bastille Day --you can find:Stupendous special markets with special street fairs and fun fair attached to them

Group meals with Provencal specialties that entire towns attend (and you can too)

Running of the bulls through the streets

Bull fights (but not the kind that hurt the bulls)Outdoor "toasts"Parades

Evening balls and outdoor dances in town squaresAnd fireworks over stunning Medieval villages.We have one such trip planned --and it's going to be a once in a lifetime --probably 6 person --visit to Provence --where we spend a weekend doing all of these things--as well as wine tastings and a stay in the Luberon --the most beautiful part of Provence.

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?

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?

 

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.

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.com. Bastille Week -  Day 1: Tuesday, July 10^th-           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. 

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!

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.

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.

6 French Wine & Food Pairings

Friday night Bliss Travels had the pleasure to lead a food and wine pairing. So, off we went to Montclair, New Jersey to meet a great group of about a dozen people to share French wines, stories and photos (courtesy of our photography partner, Anthony Bianciella). We are leading a private one again today! Many of the same wines, but with cheeses this time.Below are some of our pairings and suggestions from these two events.We compared the Cotes du Rhone (Provencal wines from the area around Chateauneuf du Pape) and Burgundy. Our two favorites both to visit and to drink.1. Muscat. This is served all over the South of France as an apero. Usually, the accompanying food is salty --such as olives, tapenade, anchoiade. (For cheeses, we pair this with a Bleu, and serve this last, rather than first in in our tastings.)Mas Amiel, Muscat de Rivsaltes, 20082. Cotes du Rhone, white! A Fleur de Pampre, Cotes du Rhone Village, Visan, Domaine La Florane. Great bouquet. Floral. Light and slightly sweet. We paired with this with an aged goat cheese from the region, served on toasts, and topped with a fig confit brought back from Provence on one of Bliss Travels recent trips. For our cheese pairing we are taking orange and fennel pastry spoons, made by a world famous Parisian bakery (we brought them back from Paris on this last trip) and filling them with a fresh, mild goat cheese, a drizzle of lavender honey will complete this amuse bouche! (Want more recipes and food ideas? Contact us!)3. Burgundy, white. A 2008, Saint Veran, Tirage Precoce, Domaine Corsin. This was served with a smoked salmon. The full flavor of the Chardonnay pairs well with the full fatty flavor of the salmon. This Chardonnay also pairs well with Comte cheese.4. Roses from Provence. These are under appreciated in the US. Rose is drunk all over France, all summer long. With fish, meats, vegetables...We recommend the Roses from Provence very highly.. The Bandol's are wonderful (Mediterranean). The Tavels (Northern Provence) are a favorite. Every community will have it's own, and it will pair beautifully with the foods.We paired ours with an Aioli,made using Bliss Travels recipe. It's a dish we made last May in Provence --and will make again this May when we go with Anthony Bianciella to Provence for our custom spring trip through the region (his photos are here. If you'd like to see more, look at his website).It pairs equally well with our Soupe au Pistou. Click on the link for the recipe and to "see" the lesson.5. Burgundy, red. 2009 Savigny-Les-Beaune, Les Picotins, Domaine Jean-Luc Dubois. This pinot noir paired with sauteed mushrooms and a light ratatouille. It would have been wonderful with our lamb dish as well. We are pairing this with a hard cheese of Sheep's milk , and also with St Marcellin.Of course, the best pairings are food and wine, where they exist locally. Some of last September's group to Burgundy.6. Cotes du Rhone, Red. 2010 Mas de Libiun, Khayyaim. A full bodied Grenache. We served with with a herb encrusted rack of lamb. In Provence, we recommend lamb or even a strong local goat cheese to stand up to this full flavored wine. Coming full circle, this red can be paired with a strong, aged goat cheese, on a fig bread, with a fig confit....All of these items live, grow and are made in the same small towns.Thank you to our wonderful host (and very frequent traveler) Karen! Thank you to Chef Nikko for making dishes to pair with our wines!Want to know more about our trips or learn what our travelers have to say? Read our testimonials.  Or contact us at 609 462 6213 or wendy@blisstravels.com. Spring and Summer in France are spectacular!

France- Day 2: It's Never Too Late/Jamais Trop Tard!

Today, an outstanding lunch at a new favorite --with Michel --a talented photographer, artist and friend-- and the meal was so enjoyable, nobody thought to take pictures! Tout a coup (all of a sudden), out comes the camera and the only photo left to take is the empty bottle of wine and the last bits of dessert!                                           An excellent Millefeuille (what we call Napoleon.)All of which prompted me to blurt --"oh, it's too late!" Of course, it is, as Michel pointed out, in French fashion, "never too late."Angels sleeping the way you will after enjoying this wonderful wine!You have choices! And tomorrow is a new day. You can always go to the afternoon market and buy pleurottes, a Provencal mushroom (and sauté them in garlic, olive oil and parsley), then herb crust a lamb shoulder (yum)...Or you can come with us to France, and experience Bliss -in person -both in the restaurants and in the markets --with or without your camera!So, "Jamais Trop Tard" for those on our trips! Below, one of Michel's incredible drawings!