Mary Katherine discovers Provence in winter: Frencg immersion at the Rousset market
- virginieinprovence
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Hello!
My name is Mary Katherine, I’m American, and I’m currently in Provence for a one-month French immersion with Virginie in Provence.
I chose January, a quieter time of year — perfect for discovering the region in a different light. I don’t regret my choice at all: it’s easier to talk with local shopkeepers, waiters, and people in town, and to practice French in a relaxed way.
It’s my first French immersion in France, and I’m so glad I took the leap. Every day I learn, discover, and gain confidence. Today, I’d like to tell you about my visit to the Rousset market — a simple and authentic experience, just the kind I love.
Breakfast facing the Rousset market
Virginie and I left home around 9:30 a.m. and headed to Rousset.
Before starting our shopping, we stopped at a small café-restaurant right across from the market.
Virginie went next door to the bakery to buy some fresh pastries, while I chatted in French with a kind gentleman who had traveled all over the world. I was quite proud of myself!
For breakfast, Virginie had a pain au chocolat and an apple turnover — which she made me taste (delicious!).I, of course, chose my favorite: a croissant. 🥐
French immersion at the Rousset market — Encounters & conversations in Provence
The olive vendor of Rousset
After breakfast, we headed to the market.
I was curious to see if the olive seller I had met the previous week would be there — and yes, she was!She immediately remembered me, especially my confusion between baiser and bisous. 😅
The first time, when I wanted to say “goodbye,” I accidentally said baiser instead of bisous —a small mistake… but with a very big difference in meaning!
👉 Un baiser (with an article) means a kiss.
👉 Baiser (without an article) is a vulgar verb meaning to make love.
Everyone had a good laugh!
Her name is Marie. There’s something about her that I really like — her face shows a life full of challenges, yet she’s kind, funny, and warm-hearted.
She asked me when I was going back to California, and I asked how her olive business was going.
“It’s tough,” she said, so I bought some of her organic bread as well.
Talking with her was the highlight of my day. 💚
The fishmonger of Rousset
Next, we stopped at the fish stall. I think the fishmonger’s name was Éric.
He teased Virginie about cooking fish for her kids — and we all laughed.
We bought some fresh salmon, and it was delicious!
He became my second-favorite vendor, right after Marie. 😄
Discovering the Rousset windmill
After the market, we had a bit of time before picking up Léo, Virginie’s eldest son, from school.
We took a short detour to the Rousset windmill, perched on a hill.
From up there, the view is stunning: the valley, the fields, and the rolling hills of Provence stretch as far as the eye can see.It was the perfect moment to soak in all the emotions — and the pastries!
My thoughts on the Rousset market
What I love most is that the simplest moments — going to the market, buying bread, chatting with a local — are just as enriching as visiting famous places like Grasse or Cassis.
These everyday experiences help me practice French naturally, understand French culture, and truly feel what it’s like to live in Provence.
It was another wonderful day, full of laughter, discoveries, and conversations.
About Virginie in Provence
If you dream of experiencing your own French immersion in Provence, I highly recommend Virginie in Provence.
She will help you discover the landscapes, gastronomy, and Provençal culture —while helping you improve your French naturally and with kindness.
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