Hi, I'm Carla. I'm a Virtuoso travel advisor based in Tampa, Florida. I absolutely love and enjoy research and planning travel for people who are in seek of a more personalized travel experience. Off-the-beaten path experiences, private touring, and hidden gems are all a part of what I do! My passion is planning first-time trips to Italy and working with clients who appreciate travel as an essential life experience. I help manage the finer details to avoid hiccups along the way. I'm with you as your advocate from the planning stages, during travel, and until you walk back through your front door. All you need to do is pack! Subscribe to my monthly travel newsletter to discover wanderlust, learn about destinations worldwide, hear about featured tours and cruises and maybe even a little about me!
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Discover Wanderlust Travel | April 2026
Published 24 days ago • 3 min read
Carla’s Curated Compass
Where culture, luxury, and adventure meet to spark your next unforgettable escape.
Hi Reader,
There’s something especially magical about Provence, France when you experience it just outside the peak summer rush. Think rolling lavender fields, sun-drenched vineyards, and charming villages without the crowds. If you love the idea of sipping local wines, wandering quiet countryside markets, and truly soaking in the rhythm of southern France, this is your moment. Spring and early fall offer all the beauty with a more relaxed, intimate feel that’s hard to find in high season. In this issue, I’m recommending a few ways to experience Provence, France...from lavender-filled landscapes to hands-on culinary moments and unforgettable wine tastings.
Featured Hotel: La Baux de Provence - Domaine De Manville
Tucked beneath the white cliffs of the Alpilles, Domaine de Manville offers an elegant escape in the heart of Provence. The property features 30 beautifully designed rooms and 9 private villas, all reflecting this region’s signature style and charm.
Enjoy fine dining at the Michelin-starred l’Aupiho, which highlights seasonal, locally inspired cuisine, or opt for a more relaxed meal at the Bistro, where dishes are crafted using ingredients from the estate’s own farm. The on-site spa offers a range of treatments, from facials to massages, perfect for unwinding.
Families are well catered to with a lively kids’ club, while active guests can take advantage of three pools, an 18-hole golf course, bikes, and scenic hiking trails. With thoughtful service and plenty to do, Domaine de Manville is the ideal getaway for relaxation and discovery in Provence!
Featured Tours & Experiences:
Small Group Lavender Luberon Tour (5 hours)
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Enjoy a scenic and picturesque drive from Avignon. Admire the breathtaking beauty of the lavender fields in bloom with photo stops along the way. Lavender landscapes in bloom are images that you will remember for the rest of your life. Guests will be given free time to explore in Roussillon and a photo stop in Gordes (listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France) and at Senanque Abbey to take pictures of this famous Cistercian church still ruled by monks and surrounded by lavender fields. While in Roussillon why not indulge yourself with a scoop of lavender ice cream!
Small Group Wine Tour to Chateauneuf du Pape (4 hours)
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This morning wine tour will give you the opportunity to discover wines from the famous Chateauneuf du Pape appellation of Provence. Your local expert guide will lead you to the scenic drive through the Rhone's valley vineyards. Learn about the historical heritage of Provence Sample some of the finest wines from the region at 2 different charming wineries. Play with your 5 senses during this winery tour. From the ruins of the Pope's summer residence, enjoy a panoramic view over the Rhone river valley and the hill ranges surrounding the village.
Private Provence Cooking Class (4 hours)
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At 9 AM , meet your private English-speaking driver and transfer to Arles (Saturday) or St Rémy de Provence (Wednesday) to explore the vibrant local market. Stroll through colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, cheeses, spices, and regional specialties. Meet Chef Yvan and select ingredients for your cooking class. From 10-12 PM, enjoy a hands-on cooking class in Graveson with Chef Yvan. Enjoy a relaxed lunch featuring your creations, paired with wine before transfering back to your hotel.
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Visit lavender fields in late June before the height of tourist season.
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Hi, I'm Carla. I'm a Virtuoso travel advisor based in Tampa, Florida. I absolutely love and enjoy research and planning travel for people who are in seek of a more personalized travel experience. Off-the-beaten path experiences, private touring, and hidden gems are all a part of what I do! My passion is planning first-time trips to Italy and working with clients who appreciate travel as an essential life experience. I help manage the finer details to avoid hiccups along the way. I'm with you as your advocate from the planning stages, during travel, and until you walk back through your front door. All you need to do is pack! Subscribe to my monthly travel newsletter to discover wanderlust, learn about destinations worldwide, hear about featured tours and cruises and maybe even a little about me!
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