Fragonard: the name alone rings with essence and time-honored sway, not unlike the perfumes produced by this fixture of French class and culture. For generations, the Maison de Fragonard has nestled in the back country along the Côte d’Azur, in the town of Grasse.

For those who have never been to Pont-Aven in Brittany, I suggest that you add it to your next France holiday. A trip to the peaceful ‘valley of willows’ is rewarding not only for the sheer beauty of the place but because it was in Pont-Aven that a whole art movement began under the auspices of Paul Gauguin. So it is true that Pont-Aven defines the bond between Brittany and painting.

The city of Avignon boasts a palace of the Popes. There is also the Petit Palais, once the home of the Archbishop of Avignon. Visitors still visit the famous Pont St. Benezet made famous by the song “Sous Le Pont d’Avignon." The bridge dates back to the 12th century, although much of it was destroyed in 1668. But the tiny Chapelle St. Nicholas just above the spot where people once danced is still there. Sous means under in French but now people say sur. which means on.

Based on legend, St. James’s remains were taken over the water from Jerusalem to the northwest corner of Spain where he was buried at Santiago de Compostela. The pilgrimage takes believers to the cathedral where St. James was supposedly buried. It goes back to the 10th century. And, while pilgrim numbers decreased during wars, the trek continues today. Often times, the pilgrims start at the French-Spanish border walking, cycling or driving from many European countries including France.

Choosing your favorite village in Provence is a little like choosing your favorite child…..an impossible task!  You love them all!  Though I try to be impartial, there are a few special villages that have captured my heart.

We often associate Aix-en-Provence with the celebrated painter, Paul Cézanne, possibly because he painted so often at Vauvenargues close by. But, another notable artist came from the same place. The great writer, Emile Zola, was not only from Aix, but went to school with Cézanne and at 13, they even became close friends.

September is a beautiful month on the Riviera, mellow and warm, there's plenty of choice but why not head off like Hemingway, Scott and Zelda to Cap d'Antibes. The Picasso Museum, Port Vauban, Europe's largest yacht marina, with heliport. The Old Town and pretty Provencal Market, bordered with boulangeries, cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Stroll the Ramparts, tan on the beaches, swim in crystal clear bays, water-ski: invented here in the 1930's.

It is a reality that you can’t afford to miss. Barging in France can cost less than a holiday with a car, train or bus travel, restaurants, gas, etc. On a modern air conditioned barge you can see the best of France and be totally relaxed. Each barge is a floating fantasy well appointed and of different capacity. You can join a group or perhaps organize your own group of 6 or even 12 friends. It is slow but that’s what you may want in a holiday.

Corsica, nicknamed île de la beauté (island of beauty), seems to be off the beaten path for many American travelers in France, despite the rich natural beauty and culture the island has to offer.