Provence (Southern France)

Hiram Ip’s advice: try to stay in a chateau, and many vineyards are open to walk-in visitors (if you enquire politely). Rent a car, taxi’s in France are prohibitively expensive and you can’t get to many places by train. Many shops and restaurants maybe closed for extended period in the summer heat, so check in advance.

Hiram Ip’s experience: South of France has always been my favourite destination in Europe. It it home to the best restaurants in France and is much better priced than Paris at the same / better quality. Life is slow here and shops close early, so chill and relax.

Standing in a lavender field (with lots of bees that the camera didn't catch)