As you can see from the rest of this site, we really like all the things to do in Provence ... but to have the fun, you have to be able to get around. And sometimes, that's not so fun. I'm going to try to make it a little easier. Where ever you go, you will need a few basic rules. Here's the list; each one has a section of its own:

  • Money - Surprise! The European's don't use dollars; you'll need ways to get cash. Some are more expensive and less convenient than others.
  • Language - It's not that tough to survive without fluent French, but you'll find a big difference in the reception you get if you make an attempt rather than expect that the French should speak English - the further you get from Paris, the less they do. And the more you try, the more you'll wonder why people think the French are rude.
  • Transportation - you have a few choices for getting there. The guides do a good job here. We'll add a few tips. Here is one given tous by a new friend Ann from Australia: www.mappy.com
  • Driving - You can see Provence by rail and bus, but most places require you to drive yourself. That's a whole new set of problems. I'll give you a few tips for how to get re-found after you get lost and almost out of gas.
  • Foreign Exchange - For short trips, see Money above. For extended stays or large purchases, you may need a better solution.
  • Menus - I had no idea you could name duck and chicken so many different ways. I'll give you some sure things to look for ... and describe some of the surprises you might find in front of you, even when you're careful. Also check out the Recipes section.
  • Lodging - There are a few guidelines to keep you sleeping in a bed instead of in the car. You can always reserve ahead ... but then you're stuck with your schedule. I'll cover when to reserve ahead, when to be spontaneous, and where to look when all else fails.

Travel comes with hassles from time to time. If that's a problem, take a tour. But some of the best times happen when you aren't going anywhere in particular and don't have to be there until ... later. Our Travel section tries to help you keep the hassles to a minimum by giving you a few tips on how to avoid problems, most of them learned the hard way.

I'm sure we haven't thought of everything - send your questions and we'll try to respond quickly.

Bonne Chance

Dick

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