Traveling Solo – A Girl Travels and Cooks
We had the pleasure of having Judith Vrooman, who was traveling solo, with us in Uzès during one of our week-long culinary experiences. Here she shares her experience (and photos), with us with her personal flare.
Last fall, I decided to live the life I so often dream about. I do drool over the pages and pages of magazines inviting you to travel to the South of France ( don’t you?). And so ….. I paid for a week of cooking at a school in Uzes, France.- Cook’n With Class. And I went alone!
WAIT , WHAAAT??? Yes, I did and I’ll never regret it!!!
I usually travel alone. No fear girl. Just go! but to France?
I hadn’t been in 30 yrs.- Bien Sûre! So off I go and I find a French taxi driver to take me to Uzès from Avignon. Where the “H” is Uzès? Who cares I’m there in my dreams. And oh my, it’s a 16th century stone village. Perfect!
I get to the beautiful villa, Les Olivettes. Wow! Greeted by Yetunde, it’s like we’ve known each other for years. Meet N Greet Cocktail party? you bet! ahhh French Rose wine too. Perfect! Then Chef Eric plans out the week. More drooling.
I can’t believe all the menus in store. It would take me 4 days to make one days menu, but we six students did it in 3.5 hrs! We cooked all my favorites from Coq Au Vin to Bouillabaisse to Grand Marnier soufflés. And we got to eat them! OMG.
We had a trip to the Pont Du Gard (built in the year 50 bc) yes really! and I hugged an olive tree planted in the year 903. We were taken out to restaurants that deserved 3 stars, taken to the famous Uzès outdoor market, and went on a great winery tour and tasted wine. My favorite beverage! We had a fabulous wine and cheese class that would cost mucho bucks in Napa. But it’s included. All the while the group is getting acquainted. We are from all over. Australia, Denver, South Carolina, New York, Truckee, Calif.(me)
Believe me, you are in fabulous hands at this school. Every question answered about cooking. We were all at different levels of home cooks. Some just beginning. What a great way to treat yourself, like me, after a lifetime of mandatory cooking for someone else….now I got to cook for me and learn from a real chef! My knife skills have improved and I’ve learned the secret of making baguettes. No I’m not telling! But that alone and the making of croissants was worth the price of admission.
Our residence is priceless. Rooms are in the French country decor and nothing is missing. All your wants and needs are met. Morning croissants!!! Oh Please!!! You cannot have enough people! The outside patio became my picnic spot as I opened some local wine and took photos intended for future paintings. Meandering around, I found some horses, and gardens that promised irises- if only I would return next spring……..sigh.
Too soon, it is the end of a great week. I’m so full of ideas and what to cook next, I can’t stand up. We finally cook up a storm for our final cocktail party and what a party!! The gypsy band rocks us all to dance. OMG what fun! What a great group of new friends I have made! I love you guys!
By now I have decided to retire here forever (ha!). And I go around asking if there is a help wanted sign or an apartment for rent. I love Uzès!! You can walk everywhere as a woman alone. Go shopping, whatever!
I miss it already.
Please, Make me French. – so I can stay.
About our blogger
Judith is a self-confessed food and wine nut in California, throw in some rock n roll, a sci fi movie and anything having to do with France, French men, or French food and wine.
Uzès Market: Where Every Visit is a Delicious Memory in the Making
Stepping into the Uzès Market is like entering a vibrant world where history and culture intertwine. This blog post unveils my personal love affair with the market, nestled in the heart of France, where each visit is a tapestry of scents, colors, and lively exchanges. Join me in exploring this historical marketplace, a place not just for shopping, but for experiencing the essence of Provencal life.
A Picnic in the South of France with the Horse Whisperer
Have you ever dreamed of riding in a horse-drawn carriage? It was with great delight that we ventured on a tour of the French countryside with our guide headed out for a picnic lunch. All part of our Week in Uzès culinary holiday program.
A Truly Memorable Lunch in Uzès
Lunch in Uzès is truly a delight and when you are invited to lunch at one of the local producers, you can be sure to have a wonderful experience. Louise, takes us to Annie’s – a local goat cheese farmer who hosts lunches at her home by appointment.
A Delightful Week in Provence
What a dream come true! A culinary holiday in Provence full of food, fun, music and wine! Come spend a delightful week in Uzès exploring the art of French cuisine with us.
