Putting the content together, our team has the chance to revisit places and traditions, always learning something new. There is such choice for articles about Provence that it’s hard to about Provence that it’s hard to know where to begin. We come to rely on the seasons to guide us, especially in areas such as food or wine where there are so many ways to surprise. The Domaine de Masques at the foothills of Sainte Victoire is a good example — innovation and tradition in a seductive setting. Discover what a dynamic Belgian couple have created and what they plan to do in the future.

The largest truffle market in France (and probably also in the world) is at Richerenches in Vaucluse. Our editor, Angela, spent a day here recently and now knows more about truffles than she could ever have imagined. It’s hard to grasp the reason for their price if you have never tasted one; but you need only try a small amount, once, to know how its subtle, earthy flavour and smell can transform the simplest dish. It’s not surprising that the 18th century French gastronome Brillat-Savarin called the truffle the diamond of the kitchen. Even in minute amounts this earthy gem imparts a uniquely palate-beguiling flavour.

If you exclude Marseille, nowhere in Provence is as well- loved as Aix-en-Provence. Visitors and international students come in their thousands all through the year. Alive, cosmopolitan, architecturally graceful, steeped in history, the ancient capital of Provence, founded in 122 BC, merits our special 4-page spread by Martin Hills.

Harry Simpson’s intriguing tale, beginning from a model of the Titanic spotted in a jeweller’s window, takes you from Madrid to Marignane and leaves you struck by a sense of the importance of coincidence in individual life, as in history. Work in an international bilingual primary school is lots of fun as a number of pupils. Language learning is where it’s all at, is the message loud and clear from teachers and children alike.

Temperatures may be close to zero, but fine weather is only days away. The blue always returns. Even in January and February you can be surprised. Huddled up indoors one day, the next on your terrace soaking up the sunshine; that’s the joy of living in this part of the world.

Have a very happy 2011 and enjoy your reading!