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MAISON d’AMIES BLOG
NOTES AND TRAVEL MUSINGS FROM NEAR AND FAR
The Art of Hosting: How I Create a Retreat Experience That Feels Like Home
When women join a Maison d’Amies retreat, they’re not just signing up for a vacation—they’re stepping into a thoughtfully curated experience designed to feel like home, only better. From the moment they arrive, I want every guest to feel welcome, cared for, and free to fully enjoy the magic of France. But creating that effortless, warm, and immersive retreat doesn’t just happen by chance—there’s an art to hosting, and it’s something I take seriously (while having plenty of fun along the way!).
Why a Maison d’Amies Retreat Is Not Your Average Women’s Getaway in France
When you think of a women’s retreat in the South of France, you might picture pastel-colored villages, sprawling vineyards, and leisurely café mornings with a flaky croissant in hand. And while that dreamy vision is absolutely part of what we offer, a Maison d’Amies retreat goes beyond the postcard version of Provence—it’s about slowing down, forming real connections, and experiencing France the way locals do.
Hidden Food & Wine Gems of the Luberon: A Taste of Authentic Provence
When travelers dream of Provence, they often picture lavender fields, golden light, and charming hilltop villages. But beyond the well-trodden paths of Gordes and Roussillon, the Luberon region hides some of the most delightful food and wine experiences in France. If you’re looking to sip, savor, and explore like a true local, here are some of our favorite hidden gems that will make your Provençal getaway unforgettable.
Why Food is the Heart of French Culture (And Your Retreat Experience)
If there’s one thing France is known for, it’s the food. From flaky croissants to rich, slow-cooked stews, every meal in France tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and community. At Maison d’Amies, we believe that food isn’t just nourishment—it’s an experience, a connection to the culture, and a highlight of our retreats.
A Week in Provence: What You’ll Experience at Our Retreats
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, the scent of lavender drifting through the open window, and the soft golden light of the Provençal countryside stretching before you.
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NO TWO TRIPS ARE THE SAME
WHAT MAKES MAISON SPECIAL
There’s something incredible about slowing down and really experiencing France, beyond the well known spots. And finding a wonderful group of fun, interesting, and like-minded women to do it all with? That’s my sweet spot.
Stephanie curate our itineraries to fit each destination’s unique features, fare, and special locales, and never repeat the same trip experience!
It’s less about checking off destinations, and more about feeling inspired, rested, connected, pampered and fully present. Will there be vineyards, charming villages, azure waters, and gorgeous castles? You bet.
Will you also smile until your cheeks hurt, and eat an unreasonable amount of cheese with new friends? Count on it.
NO TWO TRIPS ARE THE SAME
WHAT MAKES MAISON SPECIAL
There’s something incredible about slowing down and really experiencing France, beyond the well known spots. And finding a wonderful group of fun, interesting, and like-minded women to do it all with? That’s our sweet spot.
We curate our itineraries to fit each destination’s unique features, fare, and special locales, and never repeat the same trip experience!
It’s less about checking off destinations, and more about feeling inspired, rested, connected, pampered and fully present. Will there be vineyards, charming villages, azure waters, and gorgeous castles? You bet.
Will you also smile until your cheeks hurt, and eat an unreasonable amount of cheese with new friends? Count on it.