Exploring Europe

Join Shelley and her husband, Mike, as they explore Europe from their temporary home in a small French village. Their dream was to live in southern France for a year; to be immersed in the culture and lifestyle of Provence. But there was also the lure of other wonderful destinations. The list of places and events in Europe would have filled several years. They selected their experiences carefully, choosing those with a personal allure or a memorable occasion. Their adventures, sprinkled across the months while they lived in France, provide a book full of experiences – some shared with friends and others shared between just the two of them.


Their stories will take you to the wonder of prehistoric caves in the Dordogne, the beauty of Austria, the excitement of the Tour de France, and the frenzy of Siena’s Palio horse race. You’ll find yourself in Verona’s Roman arena listening to Aïda, boating on Lake Como, biking on the small French islands, the Porquerolles, and shopping at the Christmas markets of Strasbourg. You won’t want to miss the festival in Cordoba or the holiday lights of Lyon. Shelley’s stories make each experience a personal event. Come along for the fun. It’s the next best thing to being there.