'An Insider's Guide to Provence' by Keith Van Sickle
The opening quote in Keith Van Sickle's latest book, 'An Insider's Guide to Provence' is the perfect quote describing the beautiful area of Provence ...
"When the Good Lord begins to doubt the world, he remembers that he created Provence" - Frédéric Mistral
Author Keith knows Provence well and his latest, and third book, is a guide sharing everything he's learnt over more than a decade of living part-time in, and exploring Provence, with his trusty co-adventurer and wife, Val. Acknowledging that the region is vast and covering it in one book would be impractical, Keith instead focuses on St Rémy de Provence and the places they know best.
More...
Using 'An Insider's Guide to Provence'
Keith states straight up that this guide is not your normal travel guide book, and this is true. It needs to be used in conjunction with guides like Fodor, DK Eyewitness and Rick Stein's that offer detailed information and maps of towns, accommodation, history and restaurants. In loads of ways however, I think Keith's guide is way better than a "normal" travel guide.
Filled with personal recommendations, a dash of history for context and "insider secrets", it's the guide you need in your back pocket when you travel. This is also what Keith says:
This book is designed to be used while you are on the go ... it is not a general guidebook. For example, it offers no information on lodging. There are many excellent guidebooks out there already, like those I list in the Resources section. Instead, this book is a supplement to those general guidebooks, the personal favorites of an American couple living in Provence. I hope it helps make your next trip here a little more special.
Fabulous Chapters in 'An Insider's Guide to Provence'
Covering topics including Tips on Traveling in Provence, Provençal Culture, How to Spend a Week in Provence (with daily itineraries) and My 10 Favourite Things to Do in Provence, Keith will have you jumping on the internet booking your next trip to the South of France I'm sure.
I particularly love how Keith shares the importance of using the French magic word 'bonjour' everywhere, to everyone and always. The very simple way of starting every interaction at all times with the greeting of 'bonjour' is a vital part of French life. One that I've experienced myself in the time I've lived in France - it is one very powerful word!
Keith's tips on how to best enjoy your shopping, especially at markets rings so true also. France is about the experience and person, and this of course also relates to shopping. Don't expect quick service in local shops (and in some supermarkets and chain stores), but do expect and enjoy the personal chatter, passing of daily pleasantries and the careful packaging of your purchase. All of which takes time and can often seem frustrating at first when you're stuck in a queue, but this French way is focused on the experience and person. Embrace and enjoy this part of French culture.
Getting the French kiss down pat, knowing how to detangle a shopping trolley, best ways to navigate a visit to the pharmacist and ordering food are all topics covered in this book. Like I said, not stuff normally found in a guide.
Fun illustrations by Anthony Genilo are dispersed through the book adding extra interest.
My Review of 'An Insider's Guide to Provence'
"Keith loves, lives and breathes Provence and his latest book 'An Insider's Guide to Provence' shares his passion and knowledge of this most stunning region of France. A 'must-read' for anyone planning a trip to Provence." - Annette Charlton
This book is great for anyone wishing to travel to Provence, relocate to Provence, or simply enjoy a good read about the everyday way of life in the South. Written by someone who knows their topic, I recommend 'An Insider's Guide to Provence'. You can purchase your copy here from my Books for Francophiles shop page, and read more about Keith's earlier books One Sip At A Time and Are We French Yet?. Keith's website Life in Provence is jam packed with informative, fun and beautifully written posts on the history, culture and events held in the region.
