July-August 2011: A Wedding Celebration in Provence At the end of July 2011 and into the beginning of August, during my holidays in Europe, I had the privilege of attending the wedding of my dear friends Nicki and Thomas in Provence, France. Both of them are wonderful individuals I first met during my Oxfam deployment in Bangladesh years earlier. We instantly connected, and our friendship has remained strong ever since. Arrival in Provence I flew from Warsaw to Nice, where I rented a car and made my way to Trets, the location of the wedding. The venue was a stunning castle-like villa, set amidst the serene beauty of the Provençal countryside. Driving through the winding roads, surrounded by lavender fields, olive trees, and vineyards, I couldn’t help but feel excited for the days ahead. The Wedding The wedding itself was a truly magical experience. Nicki and Thomas looked radiant—happy, beautiful, and deeply in love. The ceremony and celebrations were attended by their families from France, Germany, and the United States, as well as many mutual friends from the humanitarian world. It was a joy to reconnect with familiar faces, especially Shumon and Aimee, with whom I spent a great deal of time reminiscing, laughing, and sharing stories. The atmosphere was filled with love, laughter, and a genuine sense of togetherness—a perfect celebration for such a wonderful couple. Exploring Provence After the wedding, many of us stayed on for a few extra days to explore the beauty of Provence. With my rented car, it was easy to navigate the picturesque towns and villages of the region. Highlights of the Trip 1. Aix-en-Provence Together with Shumon, I visited Aix-en-Provence, a city known for its elegant architecture, bustling markets, and association with the painter Paul Cézanne. Walking along the Cours Mirabeau, shaded by rows of plane trees, was an absolute delight. The town’s charming streets and vibrant energy left a lasting impression. 2. Marseille Our next stop was Marseille, France’s second-largest city and a melting pot of cultures. The Vieux Port (Old Port) was alive with activity, and the views of the Mediterranean were breathtaking. We also visited the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea. 3. Provençal Countryside The rural beauty of southern France is unparalleled. From the rolling vineyards to the fragrant lavender fields, every corner of Provence seemed like a postcard. The region’s slower pace of life, coupled with its rich culinary traditions, made it an idyllic place to unwind. The trip to Provence was about more than just attending a wedding—it was a celebration of love, friendship, and the joy of life. Nicki and Thomas created a magical experience that brought people together from across the globe, united by their connection to the couple and shared memories. Exploring Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and the surrounding countryside was a bonus that added depth to an already unforgettable trip. The warmth of the Provençal sun, the charm of the towns, and the camaraderie of friends made this journey one I will cherish forever. Viva Nicki and Thomas! May their love continue to shine as brightly as it did on their wedding day.