Destination Expert

Joanna Dobson

I was born in Cheshire to a farming family. In fact, all my family are farmers, except for me! Although I did a degree in hotel management, I then went on to teach in Greece, Portugal, Russia, the UAE and the UK. The school holidays allowed me to engage in my passion - travelling! I did quite a few overland trips too. The highlights being Sheffield in the UK to Moscow (with no facilities on the bus!) and Abu Dhabi to Egypt through Saudi Arabia. I moved to France whilst expecting daughter number 2 and never left! I have lived in Provence for 16 years.

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Destination Expert

Joanna Dobson

I was born in Cheshire to a farming family. In fact, all my family are farmers, except for me! Although I did a degree in hotel management, I then went on to teach in Greece, Portugal, Russia, the UAE and the UK. The school holidays allowed me to engage in my passion - travelling! I did quite a few overland trips too. The highlights being Sheffield in the UK to Moscow (with no facilities on the bus!) and Abu Dhabi to Egypt through Saudi Arabia. I moved to France whilst expecting daughter number 2 and never left! I have lived in Provence for 16 years.

Describe the perfect day in your destination?

My perfect day would commence with rising early (especially in summer before the heat of the day), quickly followed by a warm pain au chocolat and a strong coffee. Then gathering my daughters for a browse and food shop around a local village market - my favourite being Lourmarin with its 12th century castle. Then a leisurely lunch at home with the goodies bought at the market. Perhaps meeting friends at my local Bar des Amis and dinner out.


What are your top travel tips for your destination? 

Bring clothes with an extendable waistline as it hard not to over indulge! The French don't overdress, so no need for a suit gentlemen! Think about a villa for everyone in your party. If you have children, it might be lovely to send them out each morning to the boulangerie, or you may prefer somewhere more secluded. 

What local cuisine would you recommend to people staying in your destination?  

France takes food very seriously. Everything is very seasonal. Even choosing a melon is an art! However, I think everything takes better accompanied by a fresh baked baguette and a glass of rosé.

What experiences would you recommend to our customers in your destination?

Exploring a hilltop medieval village, canoeing down the emerald-coloured River Sorgue, the colour and scent of fields of lavender in June, or wine tasting at one (or more!) of the 430 vineyards. Provence always amazes!