Christmas in Provence: The 13 Desserts

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!

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?

A long list of magical delicacies!

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

-       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!

Tour France: Best Celebrity Tips For Visiting Paris (or Anywhere in France)

It's not what you see, it's how you see it!

Tour France Paris and Provence

Tour France Provence Paris

Last night, I watched Anthony Bourdain's new show "Layover", the first episode of which focuses on Paris. And I was struck by how much I agreed with him. He said the exact same things I say to my clients all of the time (without the use of @#%&  and other colorful wording.)  For the second time (he also did a show on Burgundy) I knew most of the places (restaurants, streets, sights) he spoke of quite well, having been to them many times myself with and without clients. I even knew several people he spoke with/visited on air --quite a surprise to see them on the television instead of in person! But it is not familiarity that made me agree with Mr. Bourdain. It was that his advice was the best recipe for having a truly outstanding experience in France. Let me explain why.Everybody and their uncle tells you what to see while in Paris (or Burgundy, or Provence, or just about anywhere)....Your best friend, the guidebook, the blogger you love, the New York Times, your neighbor etc. There is a very long list of things you "absolutely should notmiss".  (Even I have items remaining on that list.) But, how you plan your time is even more important than what you decide to see.I know that they might not seem to be very different things. But they are.People ask me all the time what they should see and when --well, that is the business of Bliss Travels. They also ask me to plan for their "downtime" (i.e. time not spent with Bliss Travels) and for the meals they will have on their own. And they should. They are, in fact, paying for my expertise. And they listen carefully to the names of restaurants and special streets and bakeries. The one thing I have a difficult time getting people to hear is that they shouldn't overbook themselves or run themselves ragged. Sure, they should see a few major sites. Sure, they should see a few "off the beaten track" items. But, they should also allow themselves to absorb the place they are visiting. The magic of Paris (or France in general) isn't revealed by a guidebook, or located solely in the many beautiful things to see. It is more keenly felt when one experiences the place and the culture as the locals do (even if a bit more intensely). There is something quite true about that old saying "when in Rome, do as the Romans" That is not to say that you shouldn't take a tour....Of course you should.

Tour France Paris

Tour France Paris Provence

Obviously, we pride ourselves in our small private walking tours and discourage big bus tours. However, bus tours are of interest to some people --especially if they have limited mobility. If you can't do a walking tour with someone like Bliss, then designing your own is a good idea.Of course you should see art in Paris. If not there, where? So choose a museum or two (depending upon the length of your stay) and enjoy that experience. (Tip: Get museum passes if you are going to visit one of busiest museums so you don't spend all morning in line.)Do remember to meander the streets of some of the more interesting neighborhoods, not just the grand boulevards...Do it without a destination in mind. Do you know that some streets in Paris are 1000 years old?Remember to try the local cuisine in one of the postage stamp size bistros that are so popular. (Unfortunately, once Mr Bourdain -a celebrity-- recommends a place on national television, the character of the place, and maybe even the menu can change --so try to find a place that still has its neighborhood character.) If you don't have someone like us to provide that information for you, wonder around  --off of a main street, in a nice, but less touristic neighborhood. Start reading menus. If they are in English, move on. Do the same thing if the menu is large. Find a market fresh place with a lot of native French speakers, and give it a try.

Tour France Luxury vacations in Provence Paris

Tour France Paris and Provence

Lounge at a cafe with a coffee or a wine, and watch Paris go by. Walk along the Seine, or sit on the banks or a bridge and absorb the scenery. Visit a park.

Tour France Vacations in Provence

Visit a market street. You must! Taste as you go. A great trick, if you are doing this on your own, is to find a good market street, and look at where the customers are. Stand in line behind a long line of French locals. Listen to what they are ordering --or watch, if you don't understand the language...You'll see a pattern. Try what they are trying! (Normally, I do not advocate acting like sheep --however, if you are trying to find truly fine, non touristy food and drink, and you don't have anyone with inside knowledge helping you, then you must become aware of what the locals are doing. That's the only way you can do a real "quality check" and also experience local fare you wouldn't necessarily know was available

Market Day Tour France Provence

Tour France Summer Vacations in Provence

Attend a performance of some sort. How about a concert in a church (Paris over the holidays has many)? A ballet? A local circus for festival? (A Provence activity in the spring and summer) Even a a street performance is a good idea. You will relax. You will find that humor and entertainment are different and exciting. I will never forget one particular performance in a Mediterranean beach town. It was at the beginning of a trip and I was with two clients from Princeton New Jersey. That evening, before the fireworks --fun huh?-- there was a theatrical street performance as intricate and absurd as a Fellini movie. with actors tossing others into a small pool made on the sidewalk, yelling, laughter, grand gestures. And you didn't need to speak or understand a word of French to appreciate the humor and also how different it was from our own American street performances.Or the time last Christmas in Paris when, after lunch, we stumbled upon a street performer, who kept us in stitches without saying a word.Most of all, just relax and eat and drink and walk...You cannot have a bad time if you do those things! This is Bliss!-Wendy

Tour France Luxury Vacations Paris

Tour France: Visit Paris with 60 Minutes & David McCullough

Tour France

Visit Paris with 60 Minutes & David McCullough 

People often forget the tremendous bond between America and France. Much is made of short term petty disagreements, and not enough is made of the historical ties and lasting bond between the two countries.Americans have a long time love affair with France for so many reasons. The French helped us gain our freedom. The French gave us the Statue of Liberty. (Did you know there are two replicas in Paris...one in the Luxembourg Gardens and the other in the Seine river, near the Eiffel Tower.)  The French have a culture rich in beauty that many of our founding fathers mined in order to build our own nation. (Did you know that Benjamin Franklin lived in Paris or that he modeled much of Philadelphia, including its city hall, after the city of Paris?)Did you know that Thomas Jefferson also lived in Paris, and there is a statue of him along one of the bridges crossing the Seine river?Watch David McCullough's interview on 60 Minutes to learn more about how Americans have viewed and learned from Paris over the years.There is truly much to learn about the connections between our two countries. The writers who were inspired by their time in Paris...Hemingway among them. The publishers and book sellers who made literary history, like Sylvia Beech (a Princeton ex pat who first published James Joyce) and artists from all over the US who have found their inspiration in the beauty of Paris and Provence.Whether you go on your own, or with us, we know you will be inspired and thrilled by your visit to France.If a trip to Paris over the holidays is of interest to you, please look at the below photos and contact us so we can answer your questions.We have 3 rooms left and flexible dates. We do only private events and sightseeing, such as our guided walk through the Christmas markets or our private Champagne and chocolate tasting --or our visits to the market streets. No more than 8 people doing or seeing things at the same time. Below are some photos of typical lodging and meals.

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!

Holiday Vacation in Paris: Paris Pastry, Party & Holiday Treats

Holiday Vacation in Paris: Paris Pastry, Party & Holiday Treats

The LA Times wrote about Paris pastries, and I am quoting below, because this is the time of year we start to think of sweet treats --the holidays are approaching and we are busy planning so that our holiday travelers experience the best of that Paris has to offer in the form of sweats and treats.

Paris: The City of Pastries

By Karen Leland, Special to the Los Angeles Times

"The next time you're in Paris, drop your concern about carbs and surrender to sugar. The jewelry-like pastries these top-tier tastemakers turn out make it worth putting aside your intestinal fortitude for a bit of heaven.Pierre Hermé: In this chic shop on Rue Bonaparte in the St-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, a serious discussion is taking place between a well-dressed Frenchwoman in her mid-40s and the store clerk. The salesperson is inquiring about what cuisine and wines the hostess will be serving, the purpose of the occasion and even the dress code.After gathering all the information he deems necessary, the merchant makes his recommendations. The hostess affirms his choices with a brief nod and, with gloved hands, he removes a selection of macarons from their place in the case and places them gently in a round box with orange piping that says simply, "Pierre Hermé."Pierre Hermé is one of several famous patisseries in Paris that have become well known for their macarons — a delicate cream-filled cookie with a crisp outer shell. Part of what has made these macarons so popular, despite their price tag of about $2.50 each, is the unusual flavor combinations, such as Arabesque, with apricot and pistachio; Mogador, made from passion fruit and milk chocolate; and Magnifique, a combination of strawberry and wasabi.One of the top pastry chefs in Paris, Pierre Hermé has managed to marry the dense taste of an exotic cake with the light crunch of a sugar cookie — creating nothing short of a macaron movement."

Bliss Travels Review: What I find most interesting are the places they chose to write about. Among them are Pierre Herme and Gerard Mulot, two renown pastry chefs with quintessential Left Bank shops. You certainly don't want to miss the pastries at either. I'm surprised though that no mention was made of Pierre Herme's "2000 feuille". What we commonly call a "Napoleon" --a pastry confection piped with caramel and vanilla cream --is one of his best treats. The "real" name for this is Mille Feuille (thousand sheets/leaves). This refers to the paper thin layers of pastry that are piled below, between and above the filling. Chef Herme's is called 2000 Feuille --an obvious nod to his opinion (accurate) of his pastry and its delicacy. So, all of this is by way of saying that the LA Times sure found some hot spots...Pierre Herme is no slouch. But, they didn't find some of the best kept secrets in Paris pastry. (Or maybe they did but they didn't want to publicize the places and change the nature of what they made and how they made it.) The places we most enjoy frequenting, in addition to what the LA Times mentions are the little shops with small production of what can only be described as a cross between a gastronomic feast and a work of art. Whether they are items that are color coordinated for the holidays, double as decoration, or are little jewels packed with astounding flavor, as only the French can do, we encourage you to explore and try them all. They are a feast for the eyes as well as the mouth. The experience is Bliss! So, plan your pastry extravaganza through Paris, or come with us!

Tour France with a "friend" Not on a Bus!

Tour France with a group of friends, not on a bus. Bus trips and people with banners and schedules really don't give you a feel for a place --nor do they give you a good time and a relaxing but informative experience.Look at the below. Tell me what you think!

Paris for the Holidays: Tips & Travel Bargains

Tour France: Paris for the Holidays: Tips & Travel Bargains

Paris sparkles over the holidays. In so many ways. We find it pure Bliss and the best way to celebrate. Below are tips for bargains and beating the mad holiday travel rush.

Traveling over the holidays can be exciting --and a great deal. As the New York Times points out, holiday travel bargains can be found by checking flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and keeping your schedule flexible. In addition, they point out that purchasing 8 weeks in advance is ideal for airline bargains.Trusted traveler programs also help make your trip easy and pleasant. Global Entry (apply through the US Government sites) can help you bypass long customs and immigration lines. While others may wait hours, you can proceed to a kiosk where you are allowed to use the automated system. This typically takes less than 5 minutes.There are also "trusted traveler programs". If you qualify, these can help you navigate airport security so much quicker!The same sort of "ease" is true for vacations and hotels if you book early. Booking early can get you great deals and save you time and trouble later in the event that your favorite activities book up. If you book trips where transfers and activities are included, you will often save money and always save "hassle" and time.Visit the big things: Notre Dame for Christmas mass --just for the experience. And the Christmas markets for hot spiced wine, delicacies, crafts, gifts and little trinkets. But, don't forget the less obvious, less touristic things. The holidays are a food and wine lover's paradise. Champagne, oysters, scallops, foie gras, roast meats, truffles and chocolates...all winter fare. Don't miss out! Try the French hot chocolate, thicker and less sweet that what Americans typically have. Try the homemade chocolates and seasonal pastries (we always do a private tasting and wine pairing over the holidays. Yum.)And of course, non chocolate desserts!And truffled pizza, mais oui! The best ever! This is really Bliss --in our opinion! Let us know if we can help make your holidays special.  Contact us now for great travel deals during or after Christmas. 

France Food Tour: This Summer's Dining Experiences in Paris, Provence & Med

France Food Tour: This Summer's Dining Experiences in Paris, Provence & Med   This summer provided for some interesting gourmet discoveries and some wonderful repeat experiences. Below are some of the highlights of our fine dining and country fare.  Everything from Michelin stars to picnics on the grass to lunch overlooking the Mediterranean.   First: Dining in Paris....Reach for the stars! Foie Gras with cherries and chutney. Clams...with a parmesan foam. OMG.Tomatoes with almonds over a base of mackerel seviche --before the chilled almond soup was poured on top! Pigeon with a rhubarb fruit puree...  From Paris to Provence and the Mediterranean. Fish and the freshest produce dominated those wonderful menus...

Fresh Trout pulled from the local stream and cooked at out local auberge.

Aioli --a favorite dish...cod, carrot, haricots verts, cauliflower, tomato, zucchini --and in this case, a special touch of mussels!Rouget. Another great Mediterranean specialty --seen mostly in the South of France. In this case, filets served with a variation on ratatouille.Last, but not least --fresh wood grilled sardines served with olive oil to drizzle over them, a wedge of lemon and a fresh green salad.What more could you want? Oh, that's right....Picnics of all sorts...From the rustic but gourmet...To the impromptu apres Marche picnic on the castle grounds...To the custom dining based upon local produce... It's absolute BLISS. Contact us now if you'd like to experience Bliss

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 

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: The Best Time to Visit Provence is "in Bloom"

Tour France: Visit Provence in Bloom.Spring time provides wonderful and very different sites.The first "lavender" colored bloom of the season!In every direction the sights are green and blossoming.I just can't get enough of the poppies!And, of course, every day must have a castle in it somewhere!Join us! It's Bliss! Contact us with any questions.

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: Photograph Provence!

Tour France: Photograph Provence.Our photographer, Anthony Bianciella, has a student photograph us.Off the beaten path, and exploring the light! Leave home. Step out of your normal comfort zone, and see things you might have missed!After an afternoon of photography --and the vines lead us to a wine tasting at an organic (bio) vineyard.Having a great time --even if the Mistral does blow --You could say they were "blown away by Provence"Fall foliage and photography in the Luberon in October. And May 2013 --booking now.

Tour France: Recipes from Locals & Insider Experiences during Vacations in Provence

Tour France: Recipes from Locals & Insider Experiences during Vacations in Provence I've been touring France and leading small custom groups on "insider vacations" for a while now. Some of what we do is haute cuisine and grand chefs with Michelin stars. But, some of the best, most authentic experiences occur in the countryside and about country cooking and local lore. I have been collecting recipes, adapting them and teaching French cuisine for almost as long as I have been leading trips.Each recipe has a story. This one is very special. The story is as deliciously amusing as this country recipe is tasty.  So for a casual Provencal experience, try this story on for size!

Everybody should meet their local French butcher. He is charming, funny, full of advice and local color. One day several years ago, while attempting to test some new recipes as well as research an area winery, and be very efficient by accomplishing this in one afternoon, a woman who worked for me and I decided to visit the local butcher of Menerbes instead of the one in our nearby town. The weather was quite hot and we needed to order meat, but didn’t want to cart it around with us all day, to roast in the strong provencal sun. In this way, we two American women, entered the Boucherie in Menerbes, requesting, ever so politely, in French, to please have a chicken (and rabbit, if one was available) prepared for us. We asked if he would be so kind as to hold it for us in refrigeration for several hours. This was no problem. He would be glad to help us, but it’s not possible that we are American he says. He is convinced that since we speak French and wish to cook…..well, clearly we must be English or Australian or just simply confused. No, we assure him we are sure of our origins. To make conversation, we inquired politely about several of the prepared foods he has in his case.

In France, it is quite common for Butcher to also sell certain prepared items such as ratatouille, grated carrot salad, stuffed vegetables,  roasted tomatoes/eggplants, and the like. He starts waxing poetic about his ratatouille, which, coincidentally, he is in the process of making at this very moment.When we mention that we also are planning to make this dish later that day, he insists that we follow him through his shop (which he cavalierly leaves unattended) through his living quarters, and laundry area to his kitchen where he is making the biggest vat of ratatouille known to mankind. As we look around, we see not only the vat of simmering fragrant vegetables, but colanders of cooked vegetables, tilted this way and that,  and a large fry pan still warm and oily from before we entered the shop. Next to the stove was a small metal framed kitchen table, with an ashtray, a water glass ½ full of red wine, and the corked bottle. Clearly this was the perch from which Monsieur le Boucher watched his ratatouille simmer. The Butcher painstakingly describes the secret to his ratatouille, which is that one must first cook each vegetable separately, and then drain them before finally creating the mélange. He thoughtfully stirs the pot. After we thank him, showing our appreciation for his generosity, he guided us through the doors of the now reopened Boucherie, and bellows into the street a hearty  "a bientot".  When we return several hours later, the butcher is in the shop, but comes to the street with our bird, to chat with us. That we are stopped in the middle of a tiny one lane winding road  (one of only two that exit the entire village) is of no consequence to him. He  chats boisterously with us, asking us about our day, the recipes, whether we’d like to take some ratatouille and nobody seems bothered by the fact that they are held up in ‘traffic’. Nobody other than us, that is. The car behind us is content to wait. After all, this is important. We are discussing dinner!

Ratatouille recipe* It must be stated that Ratatouille is to the Provencale what meatloaf is to the typical American family. Every family has their own recipe with it’s own special ingredients. More often than not it is made with a handful of this and a handful of that. Like meatloaf here, it is the sort of dish that non-cooks, cook. And like meatloaf, it is often best the next day served cold, or even reheated. Sitting overnight allows the flavors to meld nicely. Below is my favorite recipe. It seems to be what works best both in France and the United States, with their different sorts and size s of produce. But that doesn’t mean you can’t alter the proportion of vegetables, or even substitute them….Just make sure to take the butcher’s advice, and cook each one separately before creating the mélange.1 Red Pepper10oz Eggplant, cut into ¾ inch cubes2 lb small green zucchini, cut into ¾ inch cubes2 lb ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded and coarsely chopped1 ib sweet onion, coarsely chopped12 T olive oil or peanut oil (peanut oil can be heated hotter, but olive oil lends a nice flavor)1 bay leaf2-3 sprigs of fresh Thyme4 cloves garlic, minced1 teaspoon sugarSalt and pepper6 leaves of basil, chopped.Heat 2 T of oil, cook peppers for a couple minutes. Drain peppers and transfer peppers to a colander. Wipe pan clean of  excess oil,.Add 3 T of oil to the pan and sauté onions on medium heat for several minutes until lightly browned. Transfer onions to colander, and wipe pan. Add 2 T of oil and reheat pan. Brown zucchini at medium high heat and drain, and add to colander. Last, add 2 more T oil to pan, heat at medium high heat and brown eggplant for several minutes, stirring as needed, and drain and add to colander. Heat  a large pan, one large enough to accommodate all the vegetables. Add the remaining oil and heat. Add garlic and sauté for one minute. Add tomatoes, sprinkle with sugar (if you have very sweet, ripe, flavorful tomatoes, the sugar will be unnecessary) and add herbs, except basil.  Bring the the tomatoes and their liquid to a boil. Add salt and pepper and all the other vegetables, stir, reduce heat and cover. Cook for 30 minutes  or more until very tender. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. When finished,  remove the pot from the heat and remove Thyme sprigs and bay leaf.  Add the fresh basil. This dish is best the longer you let it sit, so the flavors of the vegetables can meld properly. Let the ratatouille sit in the pot off of the heat at least another 30 minutes, or better yet, cool the pot down and refrigerate overnight.So, if you can't attend one of our amazing trips to Provence, and experience Bliss with us, then at least visit your local farm and enjoy some freshly made ratatouille!

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!

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.

Summer Vacation in Provence: 5 Tips for Shopping in Provencal Markets

Summer Vacations in Provence: 5 Tips for Shopping the Provencal Market The markets of Provence are world renown.  They are bustling, beautiful and bursting with mouth watering produce, cheeses, meats, breads, olive oils and wines. Just to name a few specialties. And, once your hunger and thirst have been quenched, you will notice flowers, linens, jewelry, artisan  products, gifts, clothing and more. A perfect  vacation day in Provence begins with a market tour. And just wandering the markets can be great. (Though we also like to send clients on a hunt for specific picnic or cooking class ingredients –part of the fun is learning to find and purchase.) How do you decide which of the cheese stands has the best cheese? How do you find the best baguette or artisan breads? Below are some tips for getting the most out of the Provencal markets.

1. Tips for buying Produce. Buy local! French law requires that all produce be marked not just with its category  I, II, III (rating), but also its origin. I always stress buying and eating seasonally. I also believe local is better. So, first, look for the country. If it doesn’t say France, don’t buy it. Then look for the specific area of France.  Most people think that a sign that says “Provence” is a sign indicating “locally grown”. And, to a degree, it is. But, if you look carefully at the market produce stands, some will not just say Provence –but will say the town’s name. That’s when you’re at a truly local (and probably organic) stand. That’s where you want to look to buy first.  (And, if you know anything about the micro climates/towns, you’ll be able to decide whether you prefer strawberries from Carpentras or Aix-en-Provence –because you’ll know that they each have their own flavor –much the way wine from North Burgundy is different from wine from Southern Burgundy –even if they’re both Pinot Noirs.)
2. Tips for buying cheeses. There are great cheeses from all over France. And certainly, importing cheese does not impact the quality the way it does for produce. Still, there are small local producers whose products are high quality, specially made, and cannot be found elsewhere. In Provence, this means goat cheeses.(There are no cows in Provence –so there are no cows milk cheeses made there..) The fresh goat cheeses  are local.  So try them. Look at what else they carry. If the cheese monger has a wide selection –he is likely to be an expert --  a knowledgeable collector of a wide variety of cheeses. If they carry one thing –just goat cheeses –then they are probably producers, and can provide you with a unique artisan product. You should look for one of these extremes.  They indicate special expertise, in two different ways.
3. Tips for buying Meat and  Fish. Look and smell. Fish should look glossy and the eyes should look good. There should be no smell. Meat should look moist and fresh and also have no smell. It should be clear they are being kept cold. If you smell something, or it looks “tired”, this is not what you want. (Believe me, you know more than you think.)
4. Tips for buying oils, jams and other “bottled and canned” products. The same principle applies. Look for a small artisan producer. Find a family business. Focus on small quality production. Look for handwritten labels (but proper canning procedure.) And taste. If you can’t taste, don’t buy. Artisan producers are very proud of their products and as such, offer tastes. They are convinced that you will buy it if you taste it. That’s the culture. So, if they won’t allow you to taste, that’ telling you something.
5. Wait in line! If there are three vendors selling the same type of product –and there usually are –choose the one with the longest line (of locals). Why? Because these vendors come every week, have the same physical location at the market each time, and become as well known to market regulars as your local grocery is to you at home. If there’s a long line (of locals), there’s a reason.

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!

Spring in Provence: Bliss Travels Newsletter

OUR NEWSLETTER! Bonjour! Spring has sprung! On our recent trip to Paris was sunny and beautiful. Spring is a spectacular time to travel to Provence too. Poppy fields, iris's, cherry blossoms, vines, and beautiful weather.  All without any crowds. . There is still time to book our May 15-21, 2012 custom trip to Provence and Paris. See things most tourists don't have access to. Enjoy custom itineraries in a private, small group setting. Contact us now. 609 462 6213.wendy@blisstravels.com. Foodie Trends in France Local takes on new meaning in France. Local is not just from the region, it's specific to the village, sometimes the farm. Our artisan jam maker in Provence grows all of her own fruits and herbs. Lavender, olive, lemon, verbena, strawberry, peach...if it's not in her back yard, and ripe for the picking, then it's not in her pots of jam or sorbet flavors. Chemicals and additives? No way. And now the chefs are following that trend. The top spots are buying from the local producers, in small quantities.... See our blog for more photos and trends. Read More Summer Provence Travel Spring and Summer fun in Provence and along the Mediterranean. We have great dates and special itineraries available. Tour the Provencal markets. See the Bastille Day fireworks. Witness the running of the bulls. Ancient villages, impressionist art, wineries and so much more. Book your trip now. wendy@blisstravels.com "I miss France! What a great trip. I felt so spoiled having you take care of everything. Thank you. Being a person that does like "tours" and having already been through Provence I didn't really expect much - I couldn't have been more wrong!!!" (October, 2011, New York client)  Contact us now. Special family prices and custom small group trips. wendy@blisstravels.com or 609 462 6213 Sincerely, Wendy Jaeger Bliss Travels Up and Coming French Culinary Trends Summer Trips Spring in Provence Insider Access Makes the Difference! What does an "insider" provide? What difference does exclusive access to things not available to the public make? Click here to read what Anthony says and you'll find out! Or just read what our clients say: "Wendy gave me not one but two vacations of a lifetime. The first vacation was so nice I booked a return trip within 60 days.... Her knowledge of the country and culture and attention to my special needs...and ability to deliver made me feel I was always in good hands. It was so nice I did it twice." (April and June 2011, Philadelphia client) "I had the most wonderful trip to Burgundy..... As a former head of the Bordeaux wine society in Washington, DC, but a great lover of Burgundies, I can tell you that all of my expectations were exceeded, from the pre-Burgundy days in Paris , during which I experienced things I had not, despite living in Paris for almost 5 years, to the Burgundy Adventure - including where we stayed, the tours, both of Beaune and the chateaux, the teaching sessions, and the meals (Ah, the meals!) it was the best vacation of its type I had ever taken. " (September, 2011 Washington, DC client.) Follow-up Links Bliss TravelsMay in ProvenceSummer Travel  Bliss Travels News Blog

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.