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Shoulder Season Splendor: Provence, Occitanie & Autumn Adventures Await
Like so many, when the leaves begin to change, my thoughts turn to France! For those of us that are past the stressful mornings of getting kids off to school, this is a magical time to travel. Crowds have thinned, the canicule has calmed ... on peut respirer. Warm days fade into cool nights, and a new excitement fills the air as les vendages take place throughout the various wine regions of France. It is festive and joyful.
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I absolutely love being in France in the fall, and I am counting the days to my arrival. My fall trip begins in Carcassonne (pictured above) where I will spend time with Deborah Bine, the Barefoot Blogger and my business parter Ginny Blackwell of International Property Shares While I have visited Occitanie in the past, I completely fell in love with this region last spring when I won a trip from ATOUT France and the Region of Occitanie. In fact it was such a coup de coeur, that I decided to take a group tour in May 2026. (See the brochure below)
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There will be plenty of time to roam about in Brittany and Provence as well. France is such a small country that we can mistakenly think it will be so easy just pop around to each corner of the Hexagone. However transportation can be quite tricky (planes and trains that want to head to Paris first ...). Factor in other complications (such as national strikes!) and having a helping hand seems logical if not essential! I have expanded my travel services so you can get just the amount of help and inspiration you desire.
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So whether you are planning to travel this fall or just dreaming of your next trip, I wish you a fabulous fall! I will share all of my adventures on FB, Instagram and TikTok (yes, my kids inspired me!) and of course my next Newsletter!
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Travel to Occitanie with Us!
The "other" South of France is authentic, a bit less touristy, and a bit cheaper than its next door neighbor Provence. I
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It could be the perfect solution - or not! We examine all kinds of tour options.
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"As autumn arrives in Provence, the temperatures change, as does the produce in the market. Traci Parent agreed to curate our Fall Menu for 2025. Her delicious choices bring together a delicious 3-course meal to share with friends and family. Below, you will find Traci’s vivid descriptions of the season in Provence, along with her reasons for choosing these three dishes for fall entertaining, and why it’s a great time to visit."
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Speaking of Provence, we are beyond thrilled to offer this exceptional offer on a New Property in Beaumes-de-Venise.
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Marie + Charlie
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The next best thing to shopping artisans in France is finding them in the US! Marie + Charlie has been adorning women in fashionable French jewelry since 2017! Bracelets, necklaces, rings and more all Made in France by various designers. Find your petit bonheur and have it shipped directly to you!
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Marie + Charlie is a growing online boutique that curates high-quality jewelry and accessories from French designers and brings them directly to customers across the U.S.
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Marie was born and raised in France until she moved to Colorado in 2000. She has enjoyed this beautiful State for the past 20 years with her family and goes back to France regularly to visit her French family. For the past few years she has been able to reconcile her French heritage with her American life by working on her new business. She has been collaborating with some of the most talented creators in France to offer collections that blend timeless elegance with modern touch. Her story is one of vision, style, and determination. As a woman-owned business, Marie + Charlie is a shining example of the entrepreneurial spirit that many French people bring to the U.S. connecting cultures, importing French craftsmanship, and building community along the way.
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Un Grand Merci to all who came out to our Fall Boutique Opening in Minnesota!
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It is with a heavy heart that I announce my decision to close my brick & mortar shop after our Christmas Market December 13 & 14. Mark your calendars, as many items will be discounted! Please be sure to email me your Holiday Order of Castelas Olive Oils before November 15 for pick up on December 13 & 14 to be sure we have plenty in stock.
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(I will continue to order Castelas Olive Oils for pick up in Summer and December going forward as I know they are a staple for so many of you!)
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