Many years ago we left our lives in the US to spend a year in Provence. We quickly figured out that one year would simply not be enough to truly experience what Provence has to offer. We bought the Mas de Gancel, a neglected farmhouse outside of Aix en Provence and spent the following 6 years truly living. Our young children went to local village schools, we painstakingly renovated our house and vineyard, learned the language, met a wonderful group of friends, and explored the corners of an area so incredibly rich in culture and heritage. It was in Provence that we learned to slow down and enjoy life’s simple gifts that surround us– of time, food, friendships and natural beauty.
- And it was Supposed to be a Year en Provence
- Old Stones in Provence
- The Ultimate Entertainment
- A Glimpse of Heaven in India
- An Evening in Marrakesh
- Falling for Isabelle - a Chinese Adoption Story
- Admiring Angkor
- A Summer in Costa Rica
- Difficult Decisions
- The Birth of GoPhilanthropic
During this time we built a luxury boutique business - France Vacation Villa. The collection of houses you see on this site are not a random group of homes to rent but instead a carefully selected gathering of farmhouses, villas, and estates that we have hand-picked for their distinct blend of elegance, authenticity, comfort, and amenities. Only the most promising properties can join our group, and only those that consistently provide outstanding quality of accommodation and service can remain in the group. We know all of the properties personally, have eaten around their tables and spent hours with their owners --many of whom have now become dear friends. From the smallest and simplest to the largest and most elegant, each home represents in its unique way the magic of the region and each has been lovingly restored by individuals who genuinely adore and wish to share their slice of heaven in Provence.
We returned to the US in 2007 and continue to manage and expand our villa business. Luckily we remain connected to Provence by sharing these special places with those of you wanting to travel there. We venture back ourselves a few times a year to check in on our Mas de Gancel and to reconnect with the area that continues to nurture our souls and keep our priorities in line. We have also launched a new venture GoPhilanthropic, coupling luxury vacations with support for social and conservation initiatives worldwide. Our time in Provence highlighted for us the importance of getting to the things that matter...