Sunday, September 23, 2018

Itinerary for Australia’s Great Big Outback

Itinerary for Australia's Great Big Outback

Australia is one of my favorite places on the planet. During one of my first big international adventures, I traveled far and wide to see the best of the land “down unda.” On my second visit to Australia a few years later, I adventured deep into the Red Center to experience the Australian Outback.

The Outback is an absolutely massive place, and it’s one that I think deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. From Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta and beyond, this vast red desert is truly magical.

Ready for a trip you’ll never forget? Here’s my itinerary for Australia’s Great Big Outback.

Postcard from Alice Springs

Day 1: Alice Springs

Start your adventure in Alice Springs. You can fly there from most major airports or drive from the city.

There is a lot to do in Alice Springs so plan plenty of time to explore. Check out spots like the Kangaroo Sanctuary, Aboriginal Art Galleries, Uluru Mala walk and Alice Springs Desert Park.

It’s the second largest town in the Northern Territory, and it’s a major hub for tourism because it’s a popular gateway into the Outback.

Uluru also has some of the most epic sunsets! Don’t miss the changing colors of the red rocks as the sun descends, it’s truly magic.

Read More: Tips for Visiting Alice Springs

Uluru

Day 2: Uluru and Kings Creek

There’s nothing more beautiful than watching the sun rise over the red rocks, so, start your day at Uluru for sunrise.

At Uluru, you’ll find the Aboriginal Cultural Centre which is the perfect place to learn more about the native culture. Sample the indigenous food, learn about bush medicine, and have your eyes opened to a completely different way of life.

The Valley of the Winds is the perfect place for a long walk or hike. Uluru looks completely different depending on the lighting, so I’d also suggest getting to a location from which you can watch the sunset hit the rock. (Pack a bottle of bubbles and some snacks to make the moment extra special!)

Once you’re worn out, get to Kings Creek Station to spend the night under the stars.

Optional Activities: Helicopter Ride or Quad Biking Off-Road Tour.

Read More:

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Uluru

Kata Tjuta and Hiking Valley of the Winds

King's Canyon

Day 3: Kings Canyon

Start your day with an early hike through the gorges and valleys of Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. If you have the time, I’d highly recommended hopping on a camel. Some tours run through Uluru, Alice Springs, through the Ilparpa Valley, the MacDonnell Ranges, and Kings Canyon.

You will find some good glamping options around the area or you can make the relatively short trip back to stay in Alice Springs where there’s a good range of everything from hostels to luxe hotels and resorts.

Read More:

Hiking King’s Canyon in Australia’s Outback

Blonde Riding Ghan Train

Day 4: Ghan Train and Alice Springs

One of my fave experiences in the Outback (and all of Australia!) was the Ghan Train. It’s a throwback from the golden age of rail travel, and it’s such a cool experience.

You can experience The Ghan trip from Alice Springs to Katherine, which is a two-day journey that goes through some of the best areas around Australia’s Northern Territory.

If you can make the time for it, I’d recommend checking out The Ghan Expedition. This epic journey is three days and four nights through The Bush. It will take you from coast to coast for the 1851 mile (2,979km) trip from Adelaide to Darwin.

When you opt to take the long trip, you’ll get to see the incredibly diverse landscape from the stunning red scenery of the MacDonnell Ranges down to the lush tropical region around Katherine and Darwin.

I made the trip from Alice Springs up to Darwin / Katherine. I loved it and, because the train leaves in the evening, it gave me the chance to explore more of Alice Springs.

Katherine Gorge

Day 5: Katherine Gorge

After an overnight train from Alice Springs, you’ll arrive at Katherine. The train stops for approximately 4 hours, so you can explore Katherine Gorge by flat-bottomed boat, a scenic helicopter ride, or with a walk around the gorge to enjoy the views.

Litchfield National Park

Day 6: Darwin / Litchfield Park (Disembark Ghan Train)

You’ll disembark the Ghan around 7 am, so head out to explore Litchfield National Park. There is so much to see! Be sure to get to Florence Falls, and the Buley Rockhole then make time for a wetland nature cruise to meet the local crocs!

Bring a bathing suit to swim at Buley Rockhole (it’s an awesome spot to laze the day away) and be sure to check out the giant termite mounds.

You can also take a jumping crocodile cruise to see the saltwater crocodiles!

Kakadu National Park

Day 7: Kakadu National Park

Head to Kakadu National Park to check out the Aboriginal Art or hike down the gorge to take a dip in the pools below. There is a lot to learn about Australian Aboriginal culture here so take advantage of the opportunity.

Gunlom Falls

Day 8: Gunlom Falls to Darwin

Before heading all the way to Darwin, pack your bathing suit and head to the incredible Gunlom falls. Take a short trek to the top of the falls to find more pools to swim in. From up top, you’ll find an amazing viewpoint that looks over southern Kakadu.

NOTE: Gunlom Falls is only accessible during the dry season (April to October).

Ikoymarrwa is also a perfect spot for swimming. The access road is rough and restricted, so it’s normally less crowded.

The area at the bottom of the falls is a great, peaceful spot to lounge and take in your surroundings.

Finish your trip in Darwin and explore the Top End of Australia. With a ton of history and beautiful gardens and beaches, there’s a ton to see and do!

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Thursday, September 20, 2018

How to Find Choi Hung Estate Basketball Court in Hong Kong

How to Find Choi Hung Estate Basketball Court in Hong Kong

While the name “Choi Hung” might not ring a bell, there is a good chance you have seen this famous Hong Kong basketball in photos on Instagram or online. This picture perfect location is a must-see when you are in Hong Kong, but it’s not all that easy to find.

Want to get your perfect photo op? Here’s how to find Choi Hung Estate Basketball Court in Hong Kong.

Choi Hung

History

The Choi Hung Estate was built back in 1964 to provide locals with affordable housing– which is a big deal in Hong Kong, where the cost of living is the second highest in the world! They painted the estate in rainbow colors to make it look cheerful, and the world fell in love.

Oh, and fun fact: “Choi Hung” means rainbow in Cantonese!

While it was never designed to be a tourist attraction, it’s easy to see why it gained so much attention. Located in the Wong Tai Sin District of Kowloon, the public housing district is home to thousands of people.

Sign in Hong Kong

How to Get There

Choi Hung Estate Basketball Court is easy to find if you know where you are going. The exact location is 2 Tse Wai Ave, Ngau Chi Wan, Hong Kong. I’d recommend using Google Maps to map a route from where you’re staying, and you’ll have no problem getting there. Here’s a link to the exact location.

The Choi Hung Estate is centrally located, and super easy to access by Hong Kong’s subway system. While it’s not exactly the most helpful tip, look for a nearby, multi-level parking lot and head up to the very top.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll see the magical rainbow basketball courts.

If you have any issues finding it, come prepared with a photo of the basketball courts and show it to just about any local in the area and they should be able to point you in the right direction.

Building in Hong Kong

Choi Hung

Photography Tips

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that a LOT of people come to shoot photos on the basketball courts. Here are a few of my top tips for photography at Choi Hung Estate basketball courts.

First, be respectful. This is part of a housing area. Many elderly people walk around the perimeter, kids and their parents are using the space to play, and locals actually play basketball here.

Shocker. As a tourist, remember this is their space. Imagine wanting to play a game of basketball with your friends but the court is crowded with people posing for pictures.

Not awesome for kids that call this place home. So, again… be respectful.

To avoid crowds of photographers, and to keep the space less crowded for locals, come early. This is a general rule for just about any popular attraction in the world.

If you really don’t want anyone else in your shot, go at sunrise. You’re likely going to have the whole place to yourself!

Choi Hung

Share the fun! If you arrive and there are other people hoping to get photos too, take turns. There was only one basketball court not in use by locals, so I’d take a few photos and let someone else take their photos.

Then, when they were done, I’d take another turn taking photos. I ended up hanging out for 2 hours and even threw a few shots with some local kids. They appreciate you sharing the space with them!

Do your best as a visitor here to enjoy the space with its residents. It’s pretty amazing that a public housing sector draws hundreds of tourists each day– it’s no doubt a bittersweet feeling for locals. Be respectful, “get the shot,” and play some basketball!

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Wednesday, September 19, 2018

The Best Time to Go to French Polynesia

The Best Time to Go to French Polynesia

If you’re looking for the laid-back island lifestyle, then French Polynesia is the place for you. With lush green peaks and infinite shades of blue water, it’s the true definition of paradise. It’s more spectacular than you could ever imagine!

You can spend your time island hopping, hiking, exploring volcanos, discovering the sea life or relaxing on the white sandy beaches. Ready to sit back and unwind?

Here’s the best time to go to French Polynesia!

Hammock in French Polynesia

January to April

The beginning of the year means that the wet season has begun. You will most likely find warm weather with averages in the high 70’s to mid-80’s. It averages about 12 inches of rain per month during the rainy season, but this means emptier hotels and fewer tourists. If you can handle the rain, you’ll have the islands to yourself.

During the Chinese New Year, you might come across some parades, music, and dancing as well.

Water in French Polynesia

May to June

In May and June, you will see a drop in the humidity and rain which means sunshine! In fact, in May, the Papenoo region of Tahiti holds the Matari’i Raro, a festival that celebrates the beginning of the dry season. However, not many people know that this is when things begin to lighten up, so the crowds are still pretty quiet.

May and June are two of the best months to visit when it comes to both weather and availability. Fewer crowds than the high season mean cheaper rates.

It’s a win-win.

Beach in French Polynesia

July and August

Much like many other islands all over the world, July and August is peak season when it comes to tourism. With sunny, balmy weather, French Polynesia becomes the perfect place to vacation.

Hotels tend to book up months in advance as both locals, and foreign travelers flock to the smaller islands.

If you’re willing to fight the crowds, you will have the chance to experience some unforgettable parades and festivals. Heiva in Bora Bora is an annual festival that takes place in July that incorporates singing, dancing, and sports competitions. If boats are more your style, consider the Tahiti Moorea Sailing Rendez-Vous, a three-day sailing rally that takes place in July.

Blonde in Water in French Polynesia

September to October

As fall begins, the humidity on the islands starts to creep up. However, it’s still an incredible time to visit, especially since the crowds die down once again.

Late September marks the spring equinox meaning the sun hits the island lagoons in just the right way, making the water extremely turquoise. It looks like it’s right out of a postcard.

Diving in French Polynesia

November to December in French Polynesia

And back to the wet season, we go. As humidity continues to rise, AC becomes a necessity.

The rain can become very unpredictable this time of year. You might experience days where it only rains for a half an hour, or it rains all day long. It’s still worth checking out, but just be prepared! You never know what mother nature has in mind.

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Tuesday, September 18, 2018

How to Spend 48 hours in Hong Kong

How to Spend 48 Hours in Hong Kong

There’s so much to see and do in the bustling city of Hong Kong. With neon-lit streets, fishing villages, temples, and endless amounts of restaurants, it’s like no place you’ve been before. With so much to do, how do you decide what to do with your time in a city like Hong Kong?

Here’s what I did with 48 hours in Hong Kong!

Landmark Mandarin Oriental Blonde in Bath

Where to Stay

With so much going on, it’s hard to decide on where to stay. I stayed (and recommend staying) in Central Hong Kong at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental.

Here you’ll find tall skyscrapers, plenty of business offices, and retail shops. If you’re one for nightlife, there are pubs and nightclubs in Lan Kwai Fong and trendy wine bars and restaurants in SoHo.

To me, one of the best parts is that it’s located near Victoria Harbor where you can catch a Star Ferry boat to Kowloon.

Blonde in Hong Kong

Things to Do

Use Public Transportation: I was super impressed with how easy and efficient the Hong Kong subway system was. It’s inexpensive and will take you pretty much wherever you need to go. The aboveground, double-decker trams are also famous– and super cute! They’re one of the earliest forms of transportation in Hong Kong and date back to the early 1900’s.

Choi Hung Estate: Also known as the rainbow estate, you might’ve seen this insta-worthy basketball court all over social media. Choi Hung Estate is one of the oldest public housing estates in Hong Kong.

Best way to find the Instagrammer’s paradise? Look for the car park and walk up a few levels. The basketball court is located right on top!

Yick Cheong Building (1046 Kings Rd, Quarry Bay): What’s a trip without a couple of good Instagram spots? Well, the Yick Cheong building is a group of five densely stacked, colorful residential complexes. It’s so popular that it was featured in the films Ghost in the Shell and Transformers: Age of Extinction.

Dim Sum in Hong Kong

Get Dim Sum at Yum Cha: You simply can’t visit Hong Kong without getting some traditional dim sum. Never had it before? Dim Sum is a Chinese dish usually served in a small steamer basket along with some tea.

Dim Sum is especially popular in Hong Kong, and you can find gourmet spots all around the city.

Tian Tan Buddha: This remote monastery has become a popular tourist attraction and with good reason. Sitting at 34 meters high, and built in 1993, the giant Buddha statue looks over the Chinese people.

It’s worth making the trek up the 268 steps to enjoy the view of the mountain and sea down below. It’s open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM so be sure to schedule it for your morning or afternoon as it does tend to get very busy.

Victoria Peak: If you’re short on time but want to see what Hong Kong has to offer, don’t miss out on Victoria Peak. Also known as Mount Austin, this 552m high peak is the highest on Hong Kong Island.

It’s open from 7 AM to 12 AM, and it will only cost you $12.60. These views will be unlike any you’ve seen before.

It’s one of the best places to catch the pink and orange sunset or see the shimmering lights glitter in the night.

Landscape in Hong Kong

Take the Star FerryFor under a dollar (that’s right you heard me), take the Star Ferry back and forth between Kowloon Station to Hong Kong Island. It’s a relaxing scenic ride that offers you a great view over the Central area.

Plus it’s crazy affordable. Can’t pass that up.

The ferry runs about every 6-12 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM on weekdays and weekends, so you’re likely to find a time that works best for you no matter what time of day!

Harbour CruiseIf you love the idea of taking a boat around but want something longer than a ferry ride, a harbor cruise might be the perfect excursion for you. The best panorama of the skyline can be seen from the water on an evening harbor cruise. The ride is approximately an hour long and will cost you $190 per person. A little bit steeper than some of the other stops here but it’s well worth it.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: Starting at the Clock Tower, you’ll stroll by the Garden of Stars, the Hong Kong Cultural Center, and the space museum. If you’re a photographer, the sculptures and architecture offer the perfect subject. It’s also an ideal place to take a romantic stroll with your loved one.

Blonde in Hong Kong

Sky 100 Observation DeckStill, want the views without leaving the city? That’s where the Sky 100 Observation Deck comes in. For HKD169 (about $22), you can visit the 100th floor of the 10th tallest commercial building in the world. Let’s just say this isn’t for those who are afraid of heights!

If heights don’t scare you and you want to enhance your experience, they offer brunch, tea, lunch, and packages where you can enjoy meals up in the sky.

Man Mo Temple: Man Mo Temple is dedicated to the King-Emperor Man and Holy King Emperor Kwan and is split into 3 compounds. It is visited by those who seek spiritual help or blessings from the civil god for students.

When going, you can pray for education success or success, peace, and prosperity. Students and adults alike should bring offerings for the Gods such as money, paper offerings, or fruit offerings.

Symphony of Lights in Hong Kong

Symphony of LightsEven if you’re only in Hong Kong for a night, you have to see the Symphony of Lights. The signature icon of the city is a multimedia show that has lit the harbor up every night since 2004. In 2017, they unveiled a new soundtrack from the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra that goes along with the lasers, LED screens, and lighting. Be sure to be around at 8 PM for a show you won’t want to miss.

Nathan Road: Known as the Golden Mile, Nathan Road run through the most important shopping areas of Hong Kong. You’ll find international designers along with local crafts and a bit of everything else.

The area visited most by tourists is Salisbury to Austin. Here you’ll find Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Fendi, Burberry, and more. When you’re tired of shopping, stop by one of the many restaurants along the road and enjoy a traditional lunch.

Market in Hong Kong

Markets to Visit

Ladies Market: With over 100 stalls of discount clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, this market located on Tung Choi Street provides a kilometer long shopping paradise. It coined its name from all of the items on sale for women but don’t let this deter you. You will find a little bit of everything.

It occurs every day from 12 PM to 11 PM so you can shop till you drop.

Temple Street Night Market: Night markets have been a Hong Kong tradition dating back to the early days of the region. Set up begins at 2 PM (though most set up is at 4 PM) and lasts through midnight. Not only will you find trinkets and antiques on this famous street bazaar but you’ll also find opera singers and fortune tellers.

Food in Hong Kong

Restaurants

Kaum at Potato HeadThis authentic Indonesian restaurant pays homage to the rich culture of Indonesia with bespoke wooden ceiling panels and chair covers hand-woven by the Batak tribe. You’ll find everything from chicken to duck to fish to noodles.

TimHoWan: Want to experience some famous dim sum while in Hong Kong? TimHoWan has it. This hole-in-the-wall eatery is open 24 hours and has an international following. It’s so popular it now has 45 locations around the world.

Twenty Six by Liberty: This one Michelin starred restaurant is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. With Chris Keung as the executive chef, you will indulge in an 8-course French menu. The table only has spots for 26 diners total, so it’s bookings are few and far between.

Why 50With its crisp white decor and delicious lattes and breakfast food, Why 50 is a coffee shop with soul. It got its name from the idea that 50 coffee beans go into an espresso shot. 50 beans! On top of the food and coffee, a cement wall forms a space for artists to create and promote their art.

OZONEAfter filling up with incredible food, end your night at OZONE, the tallest bar in the world, located at the Ritz-Carlton HK. This blue-hued bar will offer you an unforgettable experience with Asian tapas, dance parties, and delicious cocktails.

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Monday, September 17, 2018

The Ultimate Guide to Provence

The Ultimate Guide to Provence

Provence, France, known for its diverse landscapes, miles of vineyards, lavender fields, and crystal blue waters, is indeed a traveler’s dream. I recently got to visit, and it was everything that I hoped for and more.

If you have the opportunity to spend 3-5 days exploring Provence I highly recommend doing so. I chose to stay in Avignon and spent a few days wandering around.

To make your itinerary planning a little easier, I’ve put together my ultimate guide to Provence with all the can’t miss spots!

Pont Du Gard Aquaduct

Day 1 – Arrival

Whenever I arrive at a destination, I like to spend my first afternoon relaxing and getting settled in, and this was no different in Provence.

Avignon in France

Avignon: As I mentioned, I chose Avignon as my home base to explore Provence from. It’s a beautiful medieval city with an old town that’s been named a UNESCO world heritage site. Check into your hotel and explore the town on foot.

Visit Palais des Papes: I stayed in the center of it all, near the Palais des Papes, one of the most significant and important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.

Helpful Tip: Parking in Avignon is impossible, so head straight to the parking structure in Palais des Papes. The entrance is right outside of the city walls (you’ll see an electronic parking sign). It’s not only cheap but also conveniently located.

Keep in mind that it will be hot in the summer and there’s no ventilation in the parking structure. On your way into the city, remember to bring your parking ticket with you as many of the hotels will validate it for you.

Whether you love grand architecture or you’re fascinated with history, be sure to take a tour of the palace. It’s the biggest gothic fortress in the world. Tickets start at about €16.50, and you can find several different tours.

Pont Du Gard Aquaduct

Visit the Pont Du Gard Aqueduct: 30 Minute Drive from Avignon. Built in the 1st century AD, the Pont de Gard is one of the best preserved Roman constructions on earth. It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site.

Pack a swimsuit, pick up a few groceries for a picnic dinner, and drive out to the Pont Du Gard aqueduct for sunset. Fun Fact: It’s the most visited ancient monument in France. Plus, it’s only €8.50 per adult to visit and includes parking.

After crossing the 48-meter high bridge, find a spot to set up your picnic. Enjoy a glass of wine and a swim as the sun sets over Avignon. It’s truly a unique sight that you can’t find anywhere else.

Drive Back to Avignon: 30 Minute Drive Back to Avignon. On your way back into the city, pull over just outside of the city walls and catch a glimpse of the fortified city at night. The Palais de Papes is also something to marvel at after dark.

If you’re up for it, grab a glass of wine, and people watch near the palace. There’s usually something always going on in the center of town that you won’t want to miss.

Read More: Essential Tips for Driving in Provence

Provence Lavender Fields

Day 2 – Lavender Fields

Here is where the fun begins!

First thing in the morning, pack your car up for a full day. I’m talking swimsuits, more picnic supplies (bread, cheese, snacks, etc.), beach towels and mats, a change of clothes, water, and even toilet paper.

Visit the Lavender Fields: 1 hour 40 Minute Drive from Avignon. Provence is known for its lavender and sunflower fields. Depending on the time of year that you visit, you will be able to catch them. I was in Provence August 5th-8th which is very late to see the lavender fields.

The best time to see the fields is in June or July. If you have a trip planned after those months, you can alter your itinerary as necessary since the lavender is usually gone by August.

I, however, was fortunate. I headed out to Valensole and just before reaching the famous Plateau de Valensole, I found one last field remaining!

There is also a cute little souvenir shop nearby that has lavender gifts where I got some lavender oil. Valensole is also the ideal spot to stop for lunch if you’re getting a bit hungry.

Alternative Destinations: If you do plan a trip for during a time where the lavender will be gone, you can skip Valensole completely and head to another destination. I have a list of some tops spots listed at the end of this post.

Sunflower Fields in Provence

Stop at Sunflower Fields: Regardless of where you end up, you will most likely pass vast sunflower fields throughout the Provence region.

Verdon Gorges

Visit Gorges du Verdon: 1 hour 20 Minute Drive from Valensole. I was a little hesitant about driving all the way to Gorges du Verdon (which is about an hour and 15 minutes away from Valensole), but I’m so glad I did! Verdon Gorge is known for its turquoise green river water, white water rafting, and hiking.

Before settling down on the beach, drive along the canyon for views down onto the river. You’re going to want to stop every few minutes to take pictures. It’s absolutely breathtaking.

sault dinner

Catch Sunset in Sault: 2 Hour 30 Minute Drive from Verdon Gorge. Prepare for a long drive back to Sault (but it’s worth the trek). Sault was one of the most insane little towns to drive through in all of Provence, so be prepared to squeeze through narrow roads and navigate sharp turns. I made it to Sault just before sunset and grabbed a romantic little dinner for one at Le Petit Jardin. (It was one of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had!)

Helpful Tip: I drove back to my hotel in Avignon after dark and realized just how dark it is on roads in the countryside. Most roads have no street lights, so be careful if you’re driving anywhere at night!

Gordes

Day 3 – The Luberon

Helpful Tip: Service is spotty throughout Provence but especially in the Luberon region. Download an offline google map of your driving route from Gordes to Senanque Abbey to Roussilon so you know where you’re going.

Visit Gordes: 1 hour Drive from Avignon. When I was planning my trip to Provence, I knew that I had to visit Gordes, one of the most well-known hilltop villages in the region. I wanted to go to the farmer’s market that happens every Tuesday morning and consists of stalls set up all around the foot of the castle.

Here you’ll find fabrics, linens, soaps, lavender, clothes, and an abundance of food and wine. I chose to (and recommend) getting there early to help beat some of the crowds.

Senanque Abbey

Tour the Senanque Abbey: 10 Minute Drive from Gordes. Once you’re shopped out, just down the hill, you will find the Senanque Abbey, a fully functioning monastery that was founded in the 12th century. They have guided tours that start every hour, and it’s one of the best ways to soak in all of the information that comes with the gorgeous abbey.

This is also another trendy spot to see some lavender fields if it’s the right season.

Rousillion

Explore Roussillon: 30 Minute Drive from Senanque Abbey. Finish up your day by making the quick drive over to Roussillon, one of my favorite towns. Plan to spend a few hours here to explore the town and walk the ochre trail. The town is full of old red buildings with colorful doors and the ochre trail is a beautiful nature trail through natural red quarries and cliffs.

Sault

Other Destinations to Visit in Provence

This was my 3-day itinerary for Provence but if you have more time or you’re looking for different destinations than the ones I mentioned, here are a few others that are worth visiting!

Aix En Provence: 1 Hour Drive from Avignon. Known as the “brainiest” city in France, it’s known for bringing in artists, lawyers, and nobles. There are reportedly 1,000 fountains you can visit, thermal hot springs, bookstores, markets, boutiques, and open-air restaurants where you can wine and dine.

Saint Remy de Provence: 30 Minute Drive from Avignon. Saint Remy de Provence means enjoying the incredible landscapes of the Massif des Alpilles, with the town resting right at its foot.

They receive over 300 days a year of sunshine, so it’s no wonder people flock to enjoy the weather, the museums, the private mansions from the Renaissance, the chapels, and the art galleries.

If you get the chance to go to Saint Remy de Provence, visit the Monastery of Saint-Paul de Mausolé, the spot known to have taken in and inspired Vincent Van Gogh. It’s where he painted 150 of his most well-known works.

Les Baux de Provence: 40 Minute Drive from Avignon. Les Baux de Provence is a medieval village at a fortified rocky site in between Arles and Saint Remy de Provence. This one is best to be treated as a day trip as there is so much to see within the town.

Some of its highlights include the village itself, Chateau-Fortress de Bau, Eglise St-Vincent, and Musee des Santons.

Orange – Château Neuf du Pape: 30 Minute Drive from Avignon. One of the best ways to visit these spots is to take a guided tour. During this tour, you will pop in between charming little villages, Roman ruins, and taste wine in old cellars.

It’s one of the most popular tours in Provence, so I highly recommend checking it out!

Côte d’Azur: 2 Hour 30 Minute Drive from Avignon. The French Riviera is famous for its old glamour and beautiful coastline. Famous seaside towns like Antibes, Nice, Cannes, and St Tropez are some of the most popular destinations. Head to the French Riviera for sun-soaked days by the sea!

Provence is an unforgettable destination that offers not only history but views that will have you in awe. There’s so much to do, so stay organized with an itinerary and ensure you see all that you’d like!

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