A week in Provence
aka living in an actual dream
This part of France has completely bewitched me, and I know I will be returning time and time again.
I spent a dreamy week in the city of Aix-en-Provence, and it was one of those places that I thought immediately, “Should I move here?” It’s places like this that confirms this deep down knowing that I really am meant to live in France at some point in my life—despite the fact that even after a year of studying my French is terrible 🙃
If you’re following along my 5 week funemployment euro trip reports from March, this was my third week in Europe and my second in France. This part of the trip I wanted to do a little experiment—get an apartment with a kitchen, not schedule much, and just kind of pretend that I live there and see how it feels.
My first two days were rainy, but honestly it was good for me to slow down a bit. I cooked soup and ate fresh bread and drank wine and watched Gilmore Girls in my cozy apartment. I spent 3 hours at a bookstore themed cafe and had maybe the best blond brownie of my life? I walked aimlessly around the quiet city in the rain. I went to the most beautiful market and bought fresh baguettes and cheese and olives and produce. I took myself out to dinner at a traditional Provençal restaurant and savored every single bite.
My time in Aix confirmed that I want more of this type of travel—and this type of living—in my life. Aimless, timeless, nowhere to be but where you are.
This seems to be a very normal pace of life in France, which is maybe why I love it so much. Everything seems to slow down, people seem to just be enjoying their lives—happy to just be and not rushing off to the next thing.
I had a whole week so of course I did a bit of exploring too. There were 2 days of sun in the forecast, so I took advantage of that sun and hit one place that has been on my bucket list for awhile.
When people think of France, they may not always think of jaw-dropping scenery but I’m here to help change your perception of France—including the fact that French people are far from rude!
The Calanques National Park is one of the most stunning places I’ve ever been. Maybe it felt extra special to me becuase it’s a country I love with my whole heart, so I’m probably biased, but if you are an adventure focused traveler but you also want to get a taste of French city life, then this place/region is a great option for you.
It took me 2 hours to get to the park from Aix on public transit, but it was so worth it. I booked a guided hike, which was really nice to just not have to think about where to go and have someone else pack the mid-hike lunch. It was truly one of the best days. The views were amazing, and even though it was a bit early for swimming, I’m so glad I took a little cold plunge!
The next day I took a day trip to Marseille, and while it wasn’t my favorite city ever, I had a lovely day wandering aimlessly, eating fresh seafood, and watching the sunset from the Notre-Dame de la Garde. I also had one of my favorite dinners in an eclectic and cozy wine bar in Marseille. One of the best parts about traveling alone is that you can usually get a seat in a crowded restaurant where everyone else has reservations. Definitely the case here.
My last two days in Aix I spent wandering, resting (starting to battle some sinus congestion at this point), buying things at the market that I didn’t have room for, and going wine tasting. I treated myself to a farewell dinner, which was one of those really special meals where you know that it’s special while you are there. I had leek soup, slow roasted lamb, and creme brulee—which was my biggest splurge meal on this trip!
Part of what makes solo travel so powerful is the space it gives you: space to sit with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions without distraction.
When a place helps you feel more like yourself—when it sparks creativity, imagination, and a sense of ease—that’s where the magic happens for me.
That rare combination of both loving the destination and also feeling really good internally is when I know I’ve found my little solo travel groove, and those are the places that really seem to stick with me, somewhere deep in my soul.
Aix, merci pour tout. Je reviendrai un jour.
Love this! I had a similar experience the Sao Miguel, Azores. Arrived for a week with no schedule, just do what feels natural. Yes, tours were booked but the rest of the time, just wandering around the historic town. Peaceful. Magical.
Aimless travel usually yields the best memories!