Come and experience real French village life with me in the medieval town of Chauvigny in the Nouvelle-Acquitaine region. We will shop at the local produce markets, soak up the history, explore the nearby picturesque villages, visit nearby brocantes, galleries and chateaux. You will stay in our three level village house in Chauvigny’s main street. We are five shops down from the closest patisserie and 12 steps across the road to the friendly tapas and beer bar. This experience is a real chance for you to unpack your suitcase for a week and enjoy the laid back French country lifestyle. I will introduce you to our friends and there will be impromptu outings in addition to what is outlined in the itinerary. The days in the itinerary are subject to change depending on the time of the year and the weathers.
Itinerary (Example only)
DAY 1 Pick up from Poitiers Train Station, settle into your room and explore the town and the Cite Medievale. Aperitifs at 6.00 pm! Dinner in town.
DAY 2 Breakfast then off to visit Montmorillon with its quaint winding cobbled streets and boutique shops which are all themed around books, writing, calligraphy and art. Plat du jour lunch at one of the local French restaurants. Dinner at one of Chauvigny’s great little restaurants or continued aperitifs at home if you are still full from lunch!
DAY 3 Breakfast, early morning fresh produce market shopping in the town square, then a visit to Angles-sur-l’Angles (one of France’s prettiest villages) where we will have a plat du jour lunch. Call into l’Atelier Chauvigny on the way home to visit Alex and his amazing brocante filled barns. Aperitifs at 6.00 pm then a walk up to the castle for crepes and cider (and something more to eat if you wish!)
DAY 4 Breakfast then off to the nearby medieval city of Poitiers. Explore the fresh produce market and local brocante market around the magnificent Notre Dame Church. You are assured to find some treasures! Lunch at a spot that takes your fancy then explore the winding streets of boutique shops. Home for aperitifs and dinner in town or home if you prefer.
DAY 5 Breakfast then spend the morning at Chauvigny’s big open air market. Test your French speaking skills and buy food for lunch! The afternoon is free for more local exploring, velo rail excitement or sitting in a local bar watching the world go by. Aperitifs at 6.00 pm then dinner in town or cook your own at home with your market purchases.
DAY 6 Breakfast and lazy morning before heading off to find one or two brocante or vide grenier at nearby villages followed by a visit to an abbaye or chateau nearby. Aperitifs at 6.00 pm then dinner at home or in town.
DAY 7 Breakfast and free day to choose what you would like to do. Aperitifs at 6.00 pm and last dinner in town.
DAY 8 Breakfast then pack, and drop off at Poitiers Train Station.
DATES FOR 2026
Wednesday 22 April - Wednesday 13 May 2026 France, Italy & Cotswolds
FULLY BOOKED
Monday 1 June to Monday 8 June 2026
FULLY BOOKED
Monday 8 June - Monday 22 June 2026
Private Container Tour
FULLY BOOKED
Monday 6 to Monday 13 July 2026
FULLY BOOKED
Monday 20-27 July 2026
Two spaces available
Thursday 30 July - 6 August 2026
FULLY BOOKED
$500 Deposit (per person) to be paid on booking. Balance due 12 weeks before tour. No refunds for cancellations up to four weeks before tour. Please ensure you have insurance cover. Tour costs include pick up and return to Poitiers Train Station or Poitiers Airport, accommodation in a large comfortable bedroom in our three level village house with luxury linen, all breakfasts and aperitifs each evening, plus all weekly travel in a late model car hire. Not included are lunches and dinners. (These can be out at local restaurants or produce bought to make your own at home). Maximum number of four people per tour.
DETAILS Cost $3450
2027
CHRISTMAS MARKET TOUR - France
Monday 14 December - Friday 18 December 2026 - $2250
MAISON & OBJET plus Chauvigny
Friday 15 January - Monday 25 January 2027 - 10 days $4550
Monday 26 April - Monday 3 May 2027
TWO PLACES AVAILABLE
Monday 24 May - Monday 31 May 2027
Monday 7 June - Monday 14 June 2027
FULLY BOOKED
Monday 6-13 September 2027
Two spaces available
Monday 20-27 September 2027
TENTATIVELY FULLY BOOKED
DETAILS Cost $3650
REVIEWS
"Thank you for being such a wonderful host during our week's stay at La Maison de Jac. What a wonderful spot you have in Chauvigny. We have loved walking around the village and taking in the 'bird's eye view' from the Cite Medievale. You should be very proud of what you all have created from what once was a Chapellerie and it is finished so tres chic! Well done all. We've really enjoyed our day trips to the other villages as well and have learnt alot about brocantes and their hidden treasures. A bientot." Jacquie & Lindsay (Western Australia)
"Thank you, not only for sharing your house with us but also your friends and an experience of French life. Chauvigny is a delightful and supremely interesting town as are also the picturesque villages that you introduced us to. It has been a most memorable stay. Thank you again." Chris & Moira (Western Australia)
"Thank you for sharing your love of France with us, in particular Chauvigny. We had the most wonderful time in your beautiful home. You made us feel so welcome and we are so glad we came! Thank you for making our holiday so wonderful. Sue & Dave McComasky (Western Australia)
"Thank you for your hospitality and sharing your amazing home with us. We have loved the walks, the brocante and local markets. Thanks to you, we have met some delightful 'locals'. This experience has given us hope that we really can make this lifestyle 'our' reality. " Ali & Paul Hunt (Western Australia)
"Such a lovely stay, feeling of a real home and relaxation. Lots of laughs and hilarious situations - not to mention F.O.O.D! Thanks Jo for your hospitality and your ability to make us feel at home. We loved the feeling of being in a community and 'a local' and the knowledge that comes with knowing the restaurants, etc." Pete & Lyndell Byrne(Western Australia)
"What can I say! The experience of sharing your life in country France has exceeded all expectations - I've loved it all! A week just disappeared so quickly - we've done so much, seen so many wonderful sights and met many of your beautiful friends. I can really say I have lived and experienced the French culture ... I will be back and with (hopefully) a more comprehensive French vocab. Thank you so much for everything." Ingrid Rickersey (Western Australia)
Thank you so much for a wonderful five days in your lovely home. It has been delightful to experience real French life in the lovely town of Chauvigny. I have loved all the experiences of these days." Carol McDonald (Western Australia
"What a wonderful time I have had! You have achieved great things and I admire you so much! As the first member of our extended family to visit, I feel very privileged to have shared your home in Chauvigny. Au revoir - until next time!" Susan Hislop (New Zealand)
"Thank you so much for such a wonderful time. It is wonderful to see the charm of such an old house brought back to a high standard. My room was great to wake in the morning to see the castle. I can't thank you enough for showing me around the town and small villages, all the markets, the meals you cooked and our chats. It is a holiday I will never forget and the experience of staying in such a wonderful house and village. ps. I will be back to visit!" Rae Price (New Zealand)
"Where do I start? Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful home in Chauvigny with us. We felt instantly relaxed and at home. It is a credit to all your hard work! The highlight has been the brocante markets and shopping up a storm. I can't thank you enough." Vicky den Hertog (Le French Quarter, New Zealand)
"Thank you Jo for welcoming us into your home. It was an experience that I will forever treasure. I will miss waking up and opening the warm shutters to the view of the castle and closing them at night when it is all lit up. I know I will be back to explore this beautiful part of the world again." Jordyn den Hertog (New Zealand)
"Jo, thanks for showing us so many sights and traditions of this countryside of France. We had no hope otherwise! Your passion and commitment is second to none. Thanks again." Greg Walsh (Western Australia)
"Jo, it was a wonderful experience that has given us so much joy. La Moustache, la family farm visit, the markets, the brocantes and the Musee visits have ensured there is something for both of us. You have taken us into your home and you are now someone whose friendship we value." Debra Walsh(Western Australia)
"For a great holiday, you need a fabulous location, stunning accommodation, beautiful food and wine. Here we had it in spades! Along with the delight of meeting your many charming friends along the way. We leave with so many wonderful memories. Thank you for your gracious hospitality." Alex & Ross Robertson (Western Australia)
"Everyone has a dream holiday they wish for ... I have had mine for many years and this holiday has far exceeded my dreams. I have loved every minute and now have memories for a lifetime. Thankyou so much for making my wishes come true and sharing your home. Not only do I leave with great memories but also a dear friend. I have felt so safe and cared for. You are a beautiful soul." Jane Craigie (Western Australia)
"Thank you so much Jo, for your warm hospitality, a beautiful home to stay in, a brief adventure over two days crammed with so many exciting things to see and do. Chauvigny has exceeded our expectations by so much, a long time dream to visit this beautiful part of the world was only made possible by you, another tick off the bucket list for us which we are so greatful for. This experience has only been made so much more special by the beautiful new friend we have made. We cannot wait to come back and see you and your home again. Thank you and take care." Adrian & Ros (Western Australia)
"Thank you Jo for a wonderful jam packed adventure over this last week. From the beautiful brocante stalls/markets to the amazing scenery that we have been fortunate to see. Best of luck on your continued journey, it's just going to grow at a rapid pace … thanks for a wonderful, wonderful time … I am sure you know we will be back. Take care and thanks from us both." Jan & Jay (New Zealand)
"Beautiful people, delicious food, great shopping finds. Thank you, thank you, thank you Jo. Will be back." Suzie Hogan (Western Australia)
"First time overseas, Jo made the trip enjoyable and safe. Will strongly recommend her tours." Rodwin Kremer (Western Australia)
"I had the absolute pleasure of spending six wonderful days with Jo at La Maison de Jac in June 2018. The experience was SO much fun, the room and especially the bed was SUPER comfortable and a great breakfast to boot. Visiting the various brocantes and markets with Jo was also a highlight and to meet all the friendly locals just added to the experience. Thanks Jo - lots of very happy and fun memories." Wayne Good (Arkanda Interiors, New Zealand)
"What a fantastic way to experience 'French' life. Thank you Jo for your hospitality and your generosity. Best wishes to you." John & JaneTrevaskis (Western Australia)
"Thank you for opening up France to us. We truly experienced France from a new perspective. Loved the brocante, the food, the scenery, the villages, the chateau and of course the company. You have been an amazing host - we feel we have known you forever. It was a fantastic experience. Thanks also for arranging such great weather although a trifle too hot! All the best." Alison & Steve Aldersee (Western Australia)
"Not a breath of wind stirred the hot night air, high from my window I could stand and stare, Five chateaus silhouetted in the darkening sky, Illuminated like sentinels for me to spy, On a life medieval, old stones to prove, In this life just dream, you've nothing to lose, and all to gain, so pinch me again. Yes from NZ to Chauvigny to Jo I came, This haven so calm, so beautifully set, Inspired my soul, plus the good folk we met, All friends of Jo, of long to be true, As Jo is the friend we wish we all knew. You are so special Jo, thank you for making my dreams come true." Absinthe Lynette "The Green Fairy" (New Zealand)
"One of my lifelong dreams was to experience staying in real France and your beautiful house with you as an amazing host and friend, has fulfilled that for me. I have loved every minute and am sad to be leaving tomorrow. Thank you for sharing this special place with me. I have enjoyed the rose', food, sights and great company. Especially enjoyed the laughs and interesting car rides in the Renault with John, Jan and Gill! Thank you for making me feel at home, spending time and introducing me to all your friends here." Maree Loye (New Zealand)
"Thank you for everything! Fantastic to see local France, brocantes and rose'. It's been fun 24/7 and look forward to seeing you in NZ." Jan Wiltshire (New Zealand)
"Yes Jo, agree with Jan totally. In your own quiet style you steered us around part of the real France. It gave us a glimpse of every day French life and all the characters and events that are in the patchwork of that. And then there was the back right side seat of the Clio … a great place to admire it all from …! See you on the other side." John Wiltshire (New Zealand)
"Thank you for making our French/Italian experience so wonderful. It is something that both of us have wanted to experience but it has made it so special for us having you as such a major part of this. Thank you so very, very much for your friendship and patience. We have had a marvellous time." Colleen & Trevor Stoney (Western Australia)
"Thank you Jo for sharing your French home and French life with us. We had a lovely time exploring the villages, brocante, cafes and restaurants." Annie & Rob Hesford (Western Australia)
"The best way to feel something is to live it. Thanks for all the adventures and explorations (and food/wine). Perfect central, interesting and welcoming village." Andrea Booker (New Zealand)
"Thanks Jo for your hospitality. A genuinely fantastic experience. Food never a shortage and a very comfy bed!" Margaret Hoebergen (New Zealand)
"Warm and sincere thanks not only for your warm, wonderful hospitality but also for your friendship. It has been a zillion moments of delight strung together like pearls, precious, lustrous, relaxing, beautiful, warm and to be treasured for all time. This dream of sharing your delightful part of France became reality. Thank you, thank you. Merci, merci, merci. A bientot! ps Happy Birthday Barbara, two sisters in France! Pauline Vukelic (Western Australia)
"Many thanks for a fabulous week. I have loved every moment. Your generosity in sharing this beautiful part of the world and introducing us to your friends has been very special indeed." Barb Williams (Western Australia)
Thank you so much for your wonderful introduction to France. I love your lifestyle and your wonderful home. You have taught me to appreciate history and antiques. You have a wee way to go to convince Dave that it's not "junk" though! Your hospitality has been fantastic, the bed is great and your patience while we shopped, and showing us the beautiful nearby towns. Jo, you are a genuine, beautiful person - don't ever change!
Jeannie & Dave Stewart (New Zealand)
Thank you so much for welcoming us into your home and your French lifestyle. We enjoyed sharing your love of brocante and wine. The timer spent with you was truly delightful. A time in our lives we will treasure for the rest of our lives. Whenever I have afternoon tea, I will think of you and Chauvigny. Best wishes for the future. Sharon McMillan (New Zealand)
Your hospitality has been amazing. The places you have taken us to: Angles-sur-l'Anglin - breathtaking, Chateau de Touffou - one of my dreams come true. The local markets where the people are great, as my French is bad. They are so kind. This has been my dream come true. Thank you for sharing your slice of Heaven with us. Chauvigny, you are beautiful. Fiona Lane (New Zealand)
We had the most incredible time both in Paris and with you in Chauvigny. We are grateful for your generous hospitality and showing us around your beautiful village and neighbouring towns. We loved being out all day and coming home to a home away from home each day. Would love to do it all and more again soon. X Jen & Mari (Rustic French Living, Western Australia)
Thank you so much for such a wonderful week in Chauvigny. You are such a relaxed and thoughtful host, never rushing us and always tuned in to what we are interested in. So many beautiful little French towns steeped innhistory, with lits of little anecdotes thrown in along the way, have made the trip so much more unique and worthwhile. The apartment has been perfect in every way, as has your hospitality. Jackie Todd (New Zealand)
Pete and I had a fantastic French vacation with you Jo. From your lovely French home, the delicious breakfasts, magnificent churches, buildings and scenery to the brocantes, trocs and vide-greniers - it was all amazing. The memories we have made will keep us going when we leave France. Thank you, you are an amazing host and we have absolutely enjoyed our time here. We will forever hear Alex say 'but of course'. A bientot. Chrissie & Pete Jamieson (New Zealand)
Chauvigny with Jo
Joanne in her zippy car
Whizzed us round both near and far
Country you would never see
On a coach tour - oh no deary me
Stopping here, shopping there
From shops and barns, brocantes not bare
Precious wares - some not so grand
Happy were thus little band
Three ladies really in their prime
Not a care, the world's divine
No Covid masks, breathe in fresh air
Life is so good, I could stay here!
Thank you Jo. Lyn MacDonald (New Zealand)
OMG where to start?! ... it's been an amazing six weeks here with you Jo in your gorgeous home in Chauvigny ... a real bucket list trip for me as I've gone a little crazy in the brocantes and can get everything home (in good time!) It's been great living the French lifestyle and getting used to their two hour lunches and different shop opening times ... and enjoying the food and pastries and don't forget the road triis to Bordeaux in the van, and to Foire du Chatou (can't believe we drove to nearly Paris and back in one day LOL!) It's been tfantastic sharing our passion for the gorgeous little villages, and for churches everywhere... and of course for the brocantes, which I will never get tired of. I'm sure the girls at the Le Clerc rental car desk will miss us entertaining them on a regular basis! I don't really want to leave ... but will have amazing memories of this time to remember. I will plan for the next trip to the lovely Maison de Jac in Chauvigny. Thanks for having me to stay! X Denise Yelavich (New Zealand)
* and let's not forget the road trip to Lille and Brittany and visiting 'Escape to the Chateau' and the Cider Barn Brocante ... we have done alot over the past six weeks!!!
Denise Yelavich (New Zealand)
I have had the most amazing time with Jo on the Bespoke French Village Experience. staying in a gorgeous little village house like La Maison de Jac was a total dream and the village of Chauvigny is a delight,
I loved our adventures each day, heading out seeking unique, stunning villages and vistas, and finding brocantes and treasures in the most unlikely of places! And the food, from gorgeous breakfasts at home - fresh croissants and bread every morning to three course lunches out on our travels becoming the norm, and of course, our wonderful aperitifs in the evenings.
Everything was beyond my expectations Jo - you really brought my dream to life. I will never forget it. Nicki Bain (New ZeaLand)
It's lovely staying at Jo's. Every day is diffetent, busy yet very relaxing and full of different experiences, and for a while, you're part of France life. The days started by walking down to the local boulangerie to get the bread and croissants for breakfast. The boulangerie was warm and steamy, already filled with local people having coffee.
Sometimes we walked around little villages stopping for coffee. We visited markets where we bought food for lunch or dinner. We visited brocantes looking for treasures, usually coming home with our arms full. We also met and visited some of Jo's friends, sharing wine and food.
Late afternoon we'd come back for dinner and wine in the comfort of Jo's house. It was a really lovely, relaxing and different holiday. Penny Duff (New Zealand)
You really have given me the ultimate, bespoke French experience - something I have wanted for so long and thought I may have left too late.
In this beautiful part of the world, so steeped in history, beautiful villages and countryside, you, with Cherry and Andy, have shown me how to live a French life, in your charming home.
From morning yoga sessions in the park overlooked by the ruins of an ancient castle, popping to the patisserie for croissants each morning, visiting brocante markets in nearby villages and wandering up to the castle in the evenings after aperitifs, to enjoy a crepe and a glass of rose, it has been - quite perfect!
Thank you Jo, Andy and Cherry, I will never forget you. Lib Mitchell (New Zealand)
A great big thank you from Hawick, Scotland and the Lake District, England. I've had a wonderful, full on few days ensconced in this picture perfect maison. Hosted by the most friendly, generous people and sharing your home with beautiful travellers from the other side of the world.
I came for brocantes and antiques and wasn't disappointed. The villages and all the other places are picture perfect and we made the most of all the area had to offer due to your unending zest for works. I don't know how you do it all but appreciate it greatly! Arlene Nichol (Scotland)
Thank you so much Jo. I have been to France many times but this was an amazing special tour. To stay in such an atmospheric home overflowing with antiques in a beautiful small town. Touring the local brocantes with the ultimate and friendliest guide. Taking the time to show me the picture postcard villages knowing my love of photography. Your generosity has been exceptional. Thank you also to Andy for all his chauffeuring. Claire Hubbert (New Zealand)
Thank you so much for another amazing holiday in beautiful France, your hospitality is 5 star!
The time and effort you put into making my holiday exceptional is greatly appreciated. I enjoy every minute of every day. Experiencing the South West of France in charming little villages is a dream.
The food, your home and company are always lovely. Thank you so much for tailoring my holiday to give me the ultimate brocante hunting fun. I have had the best time indulging my favourite pastime, finding many French treasures. I feel sad to be leaving but will look forward to the next time I land in this beautiful country for another adventure with you.
Jane Craigie (Western Australia)
What a beautiful holiday. What amazing adventures while we were here. Saw so much of the beautiful French countryside. I so enjoy your bubbly nature, healthy food and your amazing villa accommodation. Absolutely loved the brocante shopping. I will be back!
Sue Hogan (Western Australia)
I came to brocante, and wow! That's what we did from our first afternoon to our last day.
Thank you so much for being so calm and driving us to many brocantes and markets. The shopping far exceeded my expectations. Can't wait for the container of goodies to arrive.
I loved my room on the third floor. It was so comfortable and perfectly decorated.
... and of course the wine and cheese! I will go home with many memories. Marie Nicholls (Zinnia, New Zealand)
Merci bien Jo for another whirlwind brocante shopping experience. Our group was a formidable force of experienced brocante shoppers yet we all did our own 'thing' and not a cross word between us.
I look forward to coming back next year for another round of brocanting!
Bernice Ryan (French & Co, New Zealand)
Thank you Jo for opening your heart and home up, it's been fabulous - a friend brocanteurs dream. Look forward to returning and hopefully living here one day! Lots of love - a happy traveller.
Andrea Stagg (The Potager's Red House, New Zealand)
Where do I start ... dear Jo
I have enjoyed every minute of every day and am so grateful to you for sharing the magic of Chauvigny with me.
Helped by your local knowledge and experience of knowing the best places and brocantes to visit and when - together we have shopped up a storm, laughed, carried and packed and then some! Whew. Our container is full - so exciting! You generously give your time and expertise from help in ordering crepes, speech etiquette, train schedules, best places to eat ... the list is endless.
Chauvigny is stunningly beautiful. I have many photos and amazing sceneries etched in my mind.
Kindest thankyou to Cherry and Andy (two Chugs) for your fun and special sayings, for the lovely home cooked meal and hot chocolate after a long day.
The house the three of you have lovingly renovated 'La Maison de Jac' is beautiful in every way. Thank you for sharing it with me.
Vicky den Hertog (Le French Quarter, New Zealand)
Words cannot express how much gratitude and thanks I have for you. This tour has been such an amazing experience, and one I will cherish for years to come. Your home and the effort you put into your guests is truly a credit to you.
Caro Rosewarne (New Zealand)
Thank you for all your kindness. I've loved meeting your friends and going on all the adventures with. Leaving behind fabulous food and wine, pain au chocolat, French baguettes and fabulous icecream. It was lovely to see your beautiful house La Maison de Jac. Chauvigny is a lovely town. Jane Bell (Western Australia)
Thanks Jo for another amazing two weeks, which have gone far too fast! Love your home and Chauvigny, always a menorable visit and I hope to keep visiting for some time and look forward to more brocanting and full suitcases!
Denise Yelavich (New Zealand)
Ooh, la la, magnifique, superbe, splendide! Jo and brocante, a match made in heaven. Merci beaucoup for sharing a 'petite' slice of your French life with moi and two other lucky Kiwis.
Très, très jolie. Kay Schuda (New Zealand)
A holiday that dreams are made of with pinch me moments every day. Thank you Jo for a lovely time. Debra Howitt (New Zealand)
Jo, thank you for the absolutely wonderful adventure! We have loved every moment of it. Can't wait to come back! Shirley House (New Zealand)
Jo, thank you for the wonderful week. You have introduced us to so many people and experiences in your beautiful part of France. Don't work too hard - take time to enjoy your wonderful life.
Jan Barr (New Zealand)
Thank you so much for your wonderful hospitality. We love your home and Chauvigny, and everywhere you have shown us. Thank you!
Sue & Dave McComasky (Western Australia)
Jo, I came here as a stranger and am leaving as a friend. It was my best friend's dream and although she could not come, the reality for me has become one of the nicest weeks of my trip. Thank you for being so accommodating and generous with your time and wine. The week has flown by but the memories will last forever. A bientot! Ann-Marie Evans (New Zealand)
Jo, thank you for your warmth and wonderful hospitality. This was, every day a pinch me moment. I have loved every second and look forward to returning one day. It has been a joy getting to know you and meet new friends. A joy also to be able to practise my French and to experience the French way of life. You are a truly genuine, warm person opening your house to new friends, so thank you so very much.
Heather Carter (New Zealand)
Thank you for the most incredible experience. What an amazing week we have had. Being here with Chris has been the best. A week of wonderful memories. Thank you for your incredible warm, lovely hospitality - you are an amazing host and spending time with you has made the week one-of-a-kind. Thanks for everything Jo - safe travels and adventures until our paths cross again. Janet Lye (Canada)
My inner poet has gone to sleep - please refer to September 2015! It has been so fabulous to spend time with you in Chauvigny once again and to introduce Janet to your fun, exciting, addictive brocante!! We have had so much fun and appreciate so much all the effort you have gone to, to make our time special. Our 17 to 70 trip concluded on a high with our time here with you. I miss you - so it was wonderful to spend this time - I hope it isn't too long before we get to do this again - here, there or in Oz. Take care of special you. Chris Larke (Western Australia)
Hi Jo, Thank you so much for hosting us in your amazing home. We loved every minute of it. For us it was a great introduction to France, it's food and the brocantes - oh the brocantes! We have come away with many ideas and new friends. Even the cold, rainy days were marvellous. Thanks once again to yourself (and Cecile) for the hospitality, care, conversation and humour.
All of the best, Nick & Sasha Buxeda
(New Zealand)
Dear Joanne, thank you so much for a truly wonderful week full to the brim of a real French experience. Being driven around to enjoy the stunning French countryside, delicious food at the various restaurants, shopping galore and marvelling at the chateau, houses, shops and streets has been the best fun!
To see the French culture and very different way of eating and living has been an eye opener. We have found the French people to be friendly, kind and obliging and helpful negotiating with our purchases while trying a few words in French, with many a smile from the locals.
My bedroom is so beautiful and looking out the window at dawn will always be in my memory with the gorgeous birdsong forever remembered with a video. When I'm back home in Queensland, Australia on the farm, it will be something special to relive all the fun we have shared. Thanks so much. Cheers, Karen, Brisbane, Australia
Dear Jo, after a year of planning this amazing trip, it is everything we expected and more. We knew it would be the week to remember out of the seven weeks away.
So lovely to be driven around by someone with so much knowledge and immerse us into the French way of life. We have loved it so much and will always remember the times four sisters and Jo took in the life and splendid scenery France had to offer. Thank you for such a wonderful week. Helen Haycock, Cambridge
To Jo, what a wonderful week of adventures, food and exploration we have had. It was a joy to be driven to numerous villages and wander through the shops. The food has been a marvellous experience, baguettes divine. I loved my bedroom upstairs, it was so beautiful and comfortable. All of us were fortunate enough to buy lovely mementos to take back to New Zealand. It's been a pleasure getting to know you and sharing stories and experiences.
Looking forward to calling in to your Cambridge shop to say hello. Many thanks Jo.
Barbara, New Zealand
Jo, it's been a week of fun and laughter. Excellent days of shopping and finding treasures. Discovering foods and ways of meals. Days of lovely villages and scenes. I've learnt lots of info on the French way of life. Lots of small presents bought. Loved the bedrooms and the atmosphere of the house. Judith, New Zealand
Dear Jo, many thanks for a great week in your beautiful home, an amazing experience. Being part of the French culture, food, scenery and markets - also the 'ladies', Jody and Heather making a fun week. You're a great host Jo and hopefully catch up with you next time in Cambridge. Patricia Keenan, New Zealand
Dear Jo, thank you so much for a truly amazing experience in Chauvigny. I loved your house and it surpassed my expectations after hearing all about if from Penny; from the amazing breakfasts to all the touring around, the fabulous brocantes and your boundless energy! You are a wonderful hostess and it was great to spend the week with the other ladies. We must all keep in touch! Au revoir et a bientot!
Christine Griffith, New Zealand
Thanks Jo for such a lovely stay, finally made it after all the years of talking about it. Was great to see you in action. Hope to be back again in the future. X Jody McIntosh, New Zealand
Goodness Jo, we have had the most amazing French experience above and beyond our expectations! Brocante, churches, castles, food drink, cemeteries! We have felt loved and spoilt. We have seen parts of France we would never have dreamed of. Your network of friends is 'fabalis', especially our mate Fred - we love him!
The treasure hunting, the breakfasts, evening catchups - bless you heaps! Love Zenna, Lynne, Jo, Melanie, Cathy, Peter, Linda, Barney & Peter.
Thank you for your brocante popup in Tamahere! Arohanui. X The Te Kuiti Group, New Zealand
Dear Jo, thank you so very much for your kind hospitality and all the driving you have been doing taking Ann and I around. The sights in the villages have been amazing. A lovely taste of French living. Many thanks.
Margaret Hawthorne, Melbourne
Thanks Jo for your wonderful hospitality. So much to see and to take in. A lovely part of France! Thanks also for your medical care - a place you hadn't been to!
Ann McLeod, Western Australia
Dearest Jo, this very special time here has brought peace to my soul! I have just loved being part of your French life, the 'textures' of buildings, brocantes, food, markets, etc are beyond incredible! How I have adored the daily adventures near and far! Thank you for all your kindnesses, hospitality, patience and exposure to such beauty! What an incredible two weeks I have had with you!! May we do it again please. With very much love, Judy Smythe, New Zealand
Dear Jo, many thanks for a wonderful week in France, lots of fun and laughs 'brocanting.' Love your home and what you have done with it, you are so talented. I look forward to catching up with you in your Popup stores in Cambridge.
Christine Higginson, New Zealand
Dear Jo, thank you for a fab week! 'Brocanting' was a lot of fun and after so many years of thinking 'maybe', now it's a tick and done! It was great to get a glimpse into your amazing lifestyle in France and I wish you all the best for the future - see you back in Cambridge!
Kathie Page, New Zealand
Hi Jo, thank you for hosting such a relaxing, brocante, food and wine experience. Like nothing I have ever done. Lovely to meet your friends and family and experience a unique week in France. Have to say you're the first person that I've met that can outdo me, stamina wise, whilst shopping! Sharon May, New Zealand
Dear Jo, thank you for a fabulous week in Chauvigny! Your hospitality and attention to detail made us feel at home! Loved going out to the gorgeous towns and villages, to get to know about brocantes and the French way of doing things! I could easily slip into French village life - drinking coffee, wine and of course croissants!
Heather Gillett, Western Australia
Dear Jo, thank you to you, Chelsea and Theo for opening up your home and making us feel so welcome. Thank you Billy for the entertainment! It has been an absolute joy to explore beautiful Chauvigny and surrounds. Special mention and thanks for introducing me to raclette!
Stephanie Emmett, Western Australia