FROM PROVENCE WITH LOVE

Provence is the gem of Southeastern France, filled with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and lush fields of green and lavender in the countryside. It’s no wonder Van Gogh found his inspiration in the rolling hills of Provence.

In OuiPlease Vol.3.4, we’re introducing you to Mademoiselle Provence a beauty brand inspired by this fabled region. Founded by Chloé Mortaud, former Miss France 2009, Mademoiselle Provence offers a range of natural, easy-to-use skincare products informed by French savoir-faire. Let notes of lavender, sweet almond, verbena and peony whisk you away to a world where nature’s best beauty secrets are kep

The story of Mademoiselle Provence begins with the birth of Chloé’s son. When Matis was born, Chloé made it a priority to travel to Provence regularly to introduce her son to his French roots. Inspired by the French beauty products she would come across on each trip to the heartland, Chloé decided to create a beauty line of her own. Simple, effortless, natural, beautiful… these are the cornerstones of French living, and of Mademoiselle Provence.

48 HOURS IN PROVENCE

When exploring France, Provence is a must-see region. If you only have a couple of days to spare, we recommend Aix-en-Provence for the ideal combination of old world charm and metropolitan bustle. Tucked away in a quaint residential area is the ultimate in Provençal luxury – Hotel Le Pigonnet. Complete with a spa, world-class dining, and sweeping gardens, you may never want to leave. That being said, we do recommend adding a few of the following to your itinerary.

DAY 1: Start by acquainting yourself with traditional Provençal living with a stroll through Aix’s historic city center, referred to as Old Town. With everything from family-owned antique shops to fashion-forward outposts like Sandro and Hermès, there’s plenty to see and do along the cobblestone streets. Grab a bite to eat and un café at one of the many sidewalk cafes. Then, sit back, relax, and do a little people watching. Soak in the slow-paced, authentic charm of the Provençal lifestyle.

Take a stroll down the Cours Mirabeau for a taste of one of the busiest and most lively points in the city, steeped in history. The street is bustling from morning to night and is worth a stroll. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch one of Aix’s famed open-air markets where people of the town come to buy and sell everything from produce to antique books to bouquets of fresh flowers.

For dinner, make a reservation at the always chic Le Passage for a modern take on traditional Provençal cuisine. If you can, make your visit on a Friday for the best live music in town, from bossa nova to jazz.

End your night back at the hotel with a Pimm’s Cup (a Le 5 signature cocktail) in the garden for the perfect evening in Aix.

DAY2: Spend your morning relaxing at one of Aix’s many spas that utilize the natural springs of old world Provence. We recommend Thermes Sextius, which was built atop the old baths. Treat yourself to a massage followed by a trip to a hydrotherapy cabin and soaking tub for ultimate relaxation.

Enjoy lunch at another Aix favorite, Chez Grandma. Sample classic Southern French favorites like daube de boeuf and pistol soup with a glass or two of wine in a truly authentic atmosphere – think rustic and ivy-covered.

Soak up a little culture in the afternoon with a visit to Le Musée Granet, right in the middle of historic Old Town. Known for its collection of Rembrandt and Cézanne, it’s one of France’s finest.

For the ultimate in fine French cuisine, L’Espirit de la Violette is not to be missed for dinner. Indulge your inner foodie and spend a little time talking to the sommelier and cheese experts, and you’ll leave feeling like a French food critic.

Spend your last night soaking up the surprisingly lively nightlife in typically tranquil Aix. Start with drinks at ultra-luxe La Rotonde, then make your way downstairs to Le Mistral where chic and champagne people flow abound.