Beyond the Instagram: A Practical Guide to Experiencing the South of France Like a Local

Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 10:31 GMT by Page Six
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The South of France – Provence, the Côte d'Azur, Languedoc-Roussillon – it’s a region synonymous with glamour, lavender fields, and breathtaking coastal views. It’s plastered across Instagram feeds, promising idyllic escapes and effortless chic. But as travel expert Jack Ezon recently revealed in an interview with Page Six, experiencing this corner of the world authentically requires more than just knowing the best filter. It demands strategic planning, a willingness to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, and a healthy dose of local insight.

Ezon, founder of JourneyWell, emphasizes that the South of France isn’t a monolith. Each sub-region offers distinct experiences, requiring tailored approaches. The Côte d'Azur, for example – think Nice, Cannes, Monaco – is undeniably luxurious but also comes with a premium price tag and crowds. Provence, encompassing areas like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, leans into rustic charm and agricultural heritage. Languedoc-Roussillon, stretching towards the Spanish border, boasts rugged landscapes, historic vineyards, and a more laid-back atmosphere.

Beyond Nice: Exploring the Côte d'Azur’s Hidden Gems

While Nice is often the gateway to the Côte d'Azur, Ezon suggests looking beyond its bustling Promenade des Anglais. Antibes, with its charming old town and Picasso Museum (learn more here), offers a quieter alternative. Villefranche-sur-Mer, known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant atmosphere, provides a taste of authentic coastal life. For those seeking true exclusivity, Ramatuelle, a village perched above Saint-Tropez, is gaining popularity as a sophisticated escape – though be prepared to pay a premium. Ezon notes that even within these smaller towns, securing accommodation requires booking well in advance (think 6-12 months for peak season).

Provence: More Than Just Lavender Fields

The iconic lavender fields of Provence are undoubtedly stunning, but they’re also a major draw for tourists. To avoid the crowds and experience the region's true essence, Ezon recommends venturing inland to explore villages like Gordes (a perched village offering panoramic views), Roussillon (famous for its ochre cliffs – see more here), and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (known for its Roman ruins and connection to Van Gogh). He stresses that the best time to visit Provence isn't necessarily during peak lavender bloom in July, but rather in late spring or early fall when temperatures are milder and crowds thinner.

Languedoc-Roussillon: A Wine Lover’s Paradise & Untamed Beauty

For those seeking a less polished experience, Languedoc-Roussillon is the region to explore. This area boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes, from the rugged Pyrenees mountains to the Mediterranean coastline. It's also a major wine producing region, offering opportunities for vineyard tours and tastings (discover more about Languedoc wines here). Ezon highlights Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a remarkably preserved medieval citadel, as a must-see destination. He also encourages visitors to explore the Canal du Midi, a historic waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean – perfect for cycling or leisurely boat trips.

Practical Tips for an Authentic Experience:

Ezon’s advice extends beyond just choosing the right region; it encompasses practical tips for maximizing your experience:

Embrace Public Transportation (Sometimes): While renting a car offers flexibility, navigating smaller towns and villages can be challenging. Utilizing France's efficient train system (SNCF – check schedules here) is often a more relaxing option between major cities.
Learn Basic French Phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, making an effort to speak even basic French demonstrates respect for the local culture and opens doors to more authentic interactions.
Eat Like a Local: Ditch the fancy restaurants and seek out boulangeries (bakeries) for fresh bread and pastries, charcuteries (delicatessens) for cured meats and cheeses, and brasseries for traditional French cuisine. Don't be afraid to ask locals for recommendations – they’re often the best source of insider knowledge.
Shop at Local Markets: Farmers markets are a vibrant hub of local life and offer an opportunity to sample regional specialties and purchase fresh produce.
Consider Shoulder Season Travel: Traveling in May-June or September-October offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer months.
Don't Chase Instagram Perfection: While picturesque views are abundant, remember that the true beauty of the South of France lies in its authenticity – embrace the imperfections and savor the moments. Ultimately, Jack Ezon’s insights underscore a crucial point: experiencing the South of France like a local requires intentionality and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. It's about more than just ticking off landmarks; it's about immersing yourself in the culture, connecting with the people, and creating memories that extend far beyond the perfect Instagram photo. It’s about discovering the soul of this captivating region, one delicious bite and breathtaking view at a time.

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Beyond the Instagram: A Practical Guide to Experiencing the South of France Like a Local