In May 2026 I spent a week in Provence. This is a village along the Sorgue River – where the river splits and goes around an island and rejoins at the other end. This magical village is a lovely place to spend a few days strolling the riverside walkways, checking out museums and shops, and sipping a beverage just staring at the water pass by. It even has waterwheels. It’s completely relaxed – people just sitting along the waters edge dipping their toes.
I joined a group attending a workshop for photography. Here are Jamie, Trish, and Diana.
My hotel was the Grand Hotel Henri. Not much to look at from the outside. But inside it’s wonderful. The rooms are splendid – my 2nd stay my room was furnished with completely original matching 19th Century antiques including a roll top desk! The staff is super friendly. The weather was perfect for outside dining. I splurged and ordered the hotel specialty – smoked rack of lamb. WOW. They bring a pot with the smoking herbs to your table so that you can see and smell the progress.
Next day, I took a stroll around the village. At one point I crossed the river and saw kids paddling kayaks on a slalom course! Then I saw their kayaking coach. I am an American kayaking coach. So I practiced up my French and went over and introduced myself. The coach said that it was great I came over! He said, come on back at 3:00 and we will do something! I came back in my kayaking outfit and was surrounded by children curious about kayaking in America. Fun! Priceless! The coach, Ben, shared an espresso with me, and then I went out onto the river and helped teach a kayaking class!
With that, you can dismiss all you have heard about French snobbiness. It just doesn’t exist. You just need to be polite, humble, and try your best to make a connection and of course try a little French!
Cabin Fever Chronicles - Getting Outdoors with Rod 