The terre e provence is like that. This region has a rich cultural history that has seen activity from the Romans, Celts, Greeks and Germanic peoples in many historical events. Many figures such as counts, priests, popes, kings, and military leaders have traveled in and out of the area as they work on their endeavors. Having such a plethora of historical figures and events occur in a single area leaves the terr e provence with an energy that is uniquely unmistakable.

On the western border of the terre e provence is the Rhone River. This is one of the major rivers in France and is a thoroughfare of communication and trade since it leads from the middle of France to the Mediterranean Sea. The Rhone River originates in Switzerland and splits into different branches as it moves through France. It is known for its strong currents and is operated with locks. Historically, it would take a few weeks to travel the river, but with motorized vehicles it now only takes a matter of days.

When the Rhone River splits, it creates a natural divide in the terre e provence of France. One of the areas is called the Camargue. It is an island that has numerous brine lagoons that are cut off from sea and circled by marshes. This one area houses more than four hundred bird species and is one of the few European regions that houses the greater flamingo. The availability of prawns in the briny regions makes this an ideal area for flamingos to live. They are born grey but turn a pink and red color as they grow. This is due to the large amounts of aqueous bacteria and beta carotene in their diet. Brine shrimp and blue-green algae are the ideal food for a flamingo. They are able to filter these materials from the mud and silt from the river bottom. In addition to housing numerous birds, this area of the terre e provence is also known for having the fiercest mosquitoes anywhere in France.

The Alps mountain range along the border with Italy is part of the terre e provence. These mountains have the highest peaks in the entire area. The mountain range is part of the Alpine orogeny and besides a break in central Europe, they would connect with the Carpathians and continue to the Himalayas. Near the base of the Alps the climate is warmer and more inviting, which is where many of the visitors to the terre e provence enjoy the scenic viewpoints. As the elevation increases, the climate of the mountains becomes much colder and provides a scenic variation to the temperate climate when viewed from sea level.

With the rich historical background, milder climate and beautiful terrain, it is simple to see why the terre e provence is a desirable destination for many who want to soak in the reverie that naturally exudes from the area. Adding delectable food choices and scenic areas that are amicable to visitors only increases the appeal of the region.

If you’re moving to France or planning to stay there for any length of time then be prepared for the reality that is French television. I’ve nothing against the French personally, in fact I get along with them very well, but seriously their television channels suck…big time. I think even the French would probably agree with me. Unfortunately popular French TV culture seems to be stuck in some kind of 70′s time warp.

One of the first things you’re going to need to do on your arrival in France is get a satellite dish installed sharpish and point it in the direction of your native country! I moved to the Languedoc several years ago and during the first couple of months I really enjoyed getting away from British TV. Lets face it, it doesn’t seem to matter how many channels we have there’s still nothing on. Nevertheless there is the odd program or series that you miss and watching the same show dubbed into French just isn’t going to cut it. Three months in I succumbed, got my dish and, I’m ashamed to say, only very occasionally watch local French TV. And even then it’s the news.