Ep 9. Provence, France

Samantha Brown's Passport is a travel show that follows Samantha Brown, a well-known travel host. In season 3, episode 9, Samantha takes us on a journey to Provence, France.

As the episode opens, Samantha is standing in the heart of Provence, surrounded by the picturesque landscape and the charming architecture of the region. She explains that Provence is a land of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern exist side by side. She also tells us that to truly experience Provence, one must slow down and take the time to appreciate the beauty of the region.

The first stop on Samantha's journey is the bustling city of Marseille. Here, she visits the historic Vieux-Port, or Old Port, where she takes in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city's vibrant fish market. She also explores the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning basilica perched atop a hill overlooking the city. From this vantage point, Samantha shares with us the spectacular views of the city and its surroundings.

Next, Samantha heads to the village of Aix-en-Provence, where she takes part in a traditional Provencal market. Here, she samples the local specialties, including fresh-baked bread, cheeses, and olives. She also picks up some fresh produce to use for a cooking lesson later in the episode.

In the heart of Aix-en-Provence, Samantha visits the house of celebrated post-impressionist painter, Paul Cézanne. Here, we learn about the artist's life and work, as well as his deep connection to the region and its landscapes. Samantha takes a tour of Cézanne's studio and gardens, and shares with us some of the painter's most famous works.

From Aix-en-Provence, Samantha heads to the Luberon, a range of rolling hills dotted with picturesque villages and fields of lavender. She explores the charming village of Lourmarin, taking in the chic boutiques, charming cafes, and ancient alleyways that make up this quaint town. Here, Samantha also meets with a local artisan, who shows her how to make traditional pottery.

Back in Aix-en-Provence, Samantha puts on her chef's hat and takes part in a cooking class, where she learns to make an authentic Provencal meal. She prepares a classic ratatouille, a fragrant tomato sauce, and fresh salad, using the produce she picked up at the market earlier in the episode. We get to watch as Samantha gets her hands dirty in the kitchen, under the expert guidance of a local chef.

The episode ends with Samantha taking us on a scenic journey through the Luberon, showing us the region's stunning scenery and idyllic landscapes. We get a glimpse of the rolling fields of lavender, the ancient hilltop villages, and the winding country roads that make Provence so special. Samantha reminds us that Provence is a land of contrasts, where traditions meet modernity, and natural beauty abounds.

Overall, season 3, episode 9 of Samantha Brown's Passport is a delightful journey through one of the most beautiful regions of France. From the bustling city of Marseille, to the charming village of Lourmarin, to the stunning landscapes of the Luberon, Samantha shows us the best that Provence has to offer. With her infectious enthusiasm and down-to-earth style, she takes us on a journey that is both informative and entertaining, reminding us of the power of travel to broaden our horizons and connect us to the world around us.