These days we refer to things as before or after the pandemic. A tectonic shift so great, the whole world felt it. We talk wistfully about something and remember, “oh right, that was before, when we could do things like that”. After is such a bummer.
So how is Provence now? The after Provence where I live doesn’t seem too different. Of course, everyone must wear masks inside and out in busy public places. Stores allow only a few customers in at once, and most are showing a respectful distance.
But the café terraces still seem to be bustling, maybe not quite as full (with all the distancing measures), but there is a good energy. I was pleased to see my favourite spots with guests chatting over a couple of beers. I never liked being squished in like sardines, so this actually suits my sensibilities better. I haven’t yet been to a café, but I plan to eventually. In September.
There is a resurgence of cases in France, one of the areas with increased cases being here in Provence. All the holiday makers came, partied, got sick. So… they will all be headed back home soon enough, and things will get even less busy. Phew. September is always less hectic, and the weather is normally summery all the way through to the end.
Ventoux peeking through the forest on a lovely morning cycle.
And after a full week back, nothing is all too different than usual for me: I often cycle alone, the roads I ride are quiet, I don’t see many people, I don’t go out except for groceries. I am becoming my usual Provençal hermit. I don’t feel too worried about being around sick people, I hardly ever encounter another soul!
What is different? Not being able to hug and kiss your friends whom you haven’t seen in ages. That is a terrible feeling. Not greeting people like one normally does here feels a bit empty. And it’s quite a cultural shift. I don’t know if it will go back to before at some point, I hope it does. I miss my three kisses.
