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The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion course and discovery

The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion and discovery
Mont Ventoux in Provence

Hello everyone ! My name is Emily. I come from Canada and I had the chance to experience a week of immersion course in Provence with Virginie. During this week, not only did I improve my French, but I also discovered unique winter activities. Every day was a new opportunity to learn the language while discovering the treasures of the region. Here are three highlights of my stay in Rousset.


Immersion in Provence: discovery of the truffle fields of Rognes


The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion and discovery
A cut truffle from Rognes en Provence

From the start of my immersion week, Virginie took me to discover the truffle fields of Rognes. This visit was a great introduction to the richness of the region and an excellent way to enrich my vocabulary. Even without the traditional truffle hunt, I was fascinated by the history and secrets of black truffles. After exploring the truffle fields, we tasted truffle-based dishes, which allowed me to discover new words related to gastronomy while enjoying a delicious meal. A perfect combination of learning and fun.


Winter walk in Provence: the Sainte-Victoire massif


The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion and discovery
Sainte-Victoire Mountain in Provence

The next day, my week of immersion in Provence took a more active turn with a hike in the Sainte-Victoire massif. Even in winter, the beauty of the Provençal landscapes is breathtaking. Virginie and I walked through frosty trails, breathing in the fresh air while admiring the magnificent views. It was also a wonderful opportunity to practice French in a natural setting, discussing the plants, mountains and winter weather of the region. This walk allowed me to practice my French while being active. I prefer to work this way because I feel less stressed. We then returned for lunch.


Christmas in Provence: immersion in the Christmas markets in Aix-en-Provence


The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion and discovery
Christmas market in Provence

At the end of my week, Virginie suggested that I discover another facet of winter in Provence: the Christmas markets. We went to the Aix-en-Provence Christmas market, where the festive and warm atmosphere immediately immersed us in the holiday spirit. Between the artisanal decorations and local specialties like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, this market offered me a perfect setting to continue practicing French. Conversations with artisans and sellers allowed me to express myself more fluidly, while discovering Provençal culture.


Provençal crafts: visit to a figurine workshop in Aubagne


The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion and discovery
Santons in Provence

The same day, Virginie took me to Aubagne to discover the typical crafts of Provence with a visit to the figurine workshop in Aubagne. These small figurines, often used in Christmas nativity scenes, are an important tradition in the region. Watching the artisans create each piece by hand was fascinating, and it was also a great exercise to enrich my vocabulary around Provençal art and traditions. This visit enriched my immersion by connecting me to local history and know-how.


End of my language immersion and winter in Provence


The essentials of winter in Provence: immersion and discovery
Virginie and her family at Christmas in Provence

My week of immersion in Provence was much more than just a trip. Thanks to Virginie, I discovered local traditions while progressing in French. Each activity, whether discovering truffle fields, walking in nature or visiting Christmas markets, offered me an opportunity to learn new words, express myself more easily and better understand French culture. I recommend this experience to anyone who wants to improve their French while immersing themselves in the winter beauty of Provence. Winter in Provence is perfect for learning in a warm and authentic setting.

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