Is Southern France Windy? The Truth About the Mistral and Other French Winds
Before moving to southern France, I worried about the wind. After all, few places talk about wind as much as…
-
-
The Menton Lemon Festival: Where France Turns Lemons Into a Celebration
When life hands you lemons, throw a party! That’s exactly what the seaside town of Menton does every winter. More…
-
What Are the French Soldes? Dates, Rules, and What’s Worth Buying
What Are French Soldes? In France, les soldes (seasonal sales) are set periods when major discounts are offered on an…
-
The Secret Behind France’s Surprisingly Mild Weather (Despite Its Latitude)
If you look at a map, France doesn’t seem like it should feel especially warm. In fact, parts of the…
-
Chocolate Chaud in France: Why French Hot Chocolate Is So Thick, Rich, and Decadent
The first time I saw chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) in France, I wasn’t the one drinking it. My tablemates had…
-
Galette des Rois in France: The Cake, the Fève, and the Crown
Galette des Rois: A January Tradition Living in France has taught me that seasons don’t just change the weather—they change…
-
Réveillon: France’s Elegant New Year’s Eve Tradition
On December 31 in France, New Year’s Eve doesn’t begin with a countdown—it begins at the table. Known as Réveillon,…
-
Why the Bûche de Noël Is the Most Beloved French Christmas Dessert
If you spend Christmas in France, you’ll quickly notice that the holiday table looks a little different than it does…
-
Provençal Santons: The History and Tradition of France’s Christmas Figurines
What Are Provençal Santons? If you spend Christmas in Provence, you’ll quickly notice that nativity scenes look a little different…
-
Vin Chaud (Glühwein): Alsace’s Iconic Christmas Market Drink
If you’ve ever wandered through the twinkling wooden chalets of the Christmas markets in Alsace, chances are you’ve warmed your…
