Do you "la provence" in France? what does it mean for you, americans?

Question

Do you like?

Answer 1

Provence is a french region, but actually non an administrative region( the exact name of the region is Provence-Alpes-Cötes d'Azur").

It's the South of France.

Even for French people; the word "Provence " has a poetic meaning, as it makes us think of the "beautiful side" of France : the villages of the South, the simple and kind people, the birds, the trees, the flowers, the beautiful houses, the Pastis drink, the red wine, the good cuisine, a particular way of life ( very calm and sweet )etc.. The novels of Marcel Pagnol perfectly depict this mood and atmosphere...

PD : Not to confuse the word" Provence" with the word "province", which is a synonym of "state" or "region" ( in an administrative sense )

Answer 2

I \would guess that for most Americans it means Peter Mayle's book "A Year in Provence"

Answer 3

Hello!

Im sorry i'm not american but i couldnt help answering this question hehe.

Provence is a french region located in the south east of the country, from the mediterranean coast to the inside land.

The climate is mediterranean with warm winters and really hot summers, although the "Mistral" wind can blow a lot in summer.

It is one of the most popular regions to live (along with Paris) for the quality of life mainly (due to the weather and the ideal location between sea and mountains ). Of course, there are also drawbacks to live there, such as crowdy places and the lack of REAL wild areas ( in comparison with other french regions )

I reckon in foreigners' minds, la Provence would look rather like some italian regions, with colourful houses in the countryside, in the middle of the vineyards, with the sun shining everyday. People would cook typical dishes with olive oil and fresh vegetables. The wines would be tasty and fruity, and the lavender field would be so purple! LOL. A lot of traditions would be preserved and would be presented in small villages with fairs for example. The traditional markets, usually once a week in the morning, would be popular and a real treat for tourists who could find goods from the local farms, such as cheese, meat or vegetables. Some villages would still be preserved with pedestrian areas in the middle of old stones, as well as the old "lavoirs" where women would wash clothes a few centuries ago.

Well, the more i write the more i realise it's hard to describe this place hehe. I hope i've answered your question!

Answer 4

Provence is a district in France.  Much like a state in the US.  Provence is known for it's distinctive style of cooking, much differnt that the haute couture of metropolitan Paris.  You can make the comparison of the difference between good country cooking compared to the cuisine of New York City.

All good, just different.