Luberon...a fairy tale

For the last two days we have been on the road. As much as I am willing to research, plan, and prepare for traveling, one thing I don't wish to do is drive in a foreign country. So my hubby has had the pleasure...but not without mishaps, of course. We have found ourselves driving in the lane for oncoming traffic; we have driven over a median to get to the right exit; we made a questionably legal u-turn; and we held up a line of six cars at the exit of a parking lot because our ticket was "invalid". These were just a few of our "adventures". But the sights of Luberon (hilltop villages) were so breathtaking that I figure it was worth Larry's angst for my complete joy.

Yesterday we went to L'Isle sur la Sorgue. What a charming town! With canals and waterwheels everywhere, it really poured on the charm. And it also had great shopping! Who doesn't appreciate table linens in the Provencal style, lavender scented toiletries, or adorable clothing?

(a canal and waterwheel of L'Isle sur la Sorgue)


Today we went to Fontaine de Vaucluse, where reportedly the river source is underground. I think I need a geologist to explain that to me, but the river was beautiful and the walk to its source was ever so charming.

("The source" of the Sorgue River gushes from underground.)


Next we went to Gordes, one of "France's most beautiful villages" (Yes, there really is such a title!). It's known for the tremendous views from the hilltop and the stone buildings. Again...so charming and such shopping! (Are you noticing a pattern here?)

(a view of Gordes...inspiration for fairy tales)

Lastly, we went to Rouissillon, which is also one of "France's most beautiful villages". This town is known for its ochre and therefore all the buildings are of the ochre color scheme (red, orange, and in between).

(just one of the many colorful streets in Rouissillon)


In the Luberon, fashion changes from that of ultra chic Paris. Clothes are more comfortable. And the predominant color is bright white. (Don't they realize it's past Labor Day? Maybe Labor Day is later in France.) The most popular fabric is a light white fabric that looks like linen but softer. Man-pris (men's capris) are the typical male fashion statement. And part of fashion everywhere we have visited is...dogs! Dogs of all kinds and sizes (but predominantly small) walk with their masters throughout the towns. Pets are allowed and welcomed in shops and restaurants.

The Surgeon General would not be welcome here! Everybody smokes!! Waiters need to take a quick break between tables so they can get in a quick cig.


Answer to yesterday's question of the day: totally French of course! Male hints: man-pris, man purse at his feet, ultra tailored shirt (it even had darts). Female hints: very feminine clothing in a neutral palette, shimmering hair and beautiful skin, short manicured nails in a natural tone. I realize you may not have been able to see all the hints in the photo, (I hope you clicked on it to enlarge) but hopefully you can understand my addiction to the game. Today's question: just guess...what is my favorite traveling tool?

Sorry for the delay of posts. We were in a non-internet-friendly area. I'll have to catch up.