A rainbow spectrum of textiles, spices and  A casual stroll down the Rue de la Republique in the afternoon can only be described as a bliss that most individuals could only envision in a daydream when stuck working overtime in the office- but we assure you, it can be found in reality.

​

At the end of this eye-catching street, lies the infamous Palais des Papes from where a succession of exiled popes seized power throughout the 14th century. Today, the stunning interior of this historical landmark satisfies all of our gothic architecture needs, down to the 14th century artwork cascading from walls and ceiling. The heart of the Palais des Papes certainly prompts vivid imaginations of the true decadence and corruption of the period that defined the Avignon papacy.

​

With dreams of Provencal shopping in mind, we wandered just beyond the Palais des Papes, at the top of the rue de la Republique. An opulent array of high-end boutiques and retail outlets immediately caught our attention; however, we were in search of a shopping experience far more rich in culture and unique to the city. It is the collective opinion of AKIN that the more unusual buys can be found in the cities infamously quirky small designer and craft boutiques. Les Fabricateurs d'Avignon is a title given to the young and talented creatives of Avignon, which we were fortunate enough to discover on our travels. They organise exciting events, as well as the most vibrant craft markets where only the finest and most original pieces of artwork and homewares are showcased and available to purchase.

​

Our passion for sustainability lead us to a concept store called CQFD at 16-place de la Principale. The acronym (Création EthiQues Franco Décalées) indicates quirky, ethically sourced objects made in France, and that is certainly, what we found here. Everything from sustainably produced furniture, to stunning textiles, accessories and clothing was available and rest assured the product offering was superb, featuring the latest styles and patterns. A favourite pick of ours would have to be an ethically sourced Ecru blouse, embellished with bamboo buttons, which would look perfect paired with a pair of every day jeans and sandals.

​

​

​

​

"Each street is adorned by fascinating stonework as far as the eye can see, its beauty intensified by an Azul sky- The perfect backdrop to a fairy-tale setting."

​

​

​

​

​

An afternoon of extraordinary sightseeing and spending calls for some Provencal cuisine and of course wine from Avignon’s unmatched vineyards. It was a fine decision dining at La Cour d’Honnour, we we’re greeted with a welcoming yet quaint courtyard, bedecked with scarlet flowers. Eager to indulge in the high-spirited and fresh tastes of Avignon, we cast an eye over our menus, filled with colourful traditional dishes. Our table was shortly covered with a Mediterranean feast of olives, sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh seafood and signature ratatouille, complimented by the most exquisite red wine we’d ever tasted. Needless to say our experience of Provencal dining will be cherished, and this will not be AKIN’s last visit to La Cour d’Honnour.