Carpentras is a small town in the heart of Provence in the South of France, with rich history, food and wine. It provides many tastes and agricultural products of countryside France.

The Arts Musee Sobirats in the center of town is in a former 18th century mansion and filled with beautiful objects. Furniture, artwork, porcelain, glassware, silver and gold are all displayed as at the time the house was occupied by one of the area's wealthiest families.

France's oldest synagogue opened in 1367. The Carpentras area has a long Jewish history, dating back to a unique relationship with the Pope in the 14th century. After Jews were banished from France, they were granted the right to return and live in certain areas. The current synagogue building, still active since the late 18th century, is beautiful and open for visits.

Nearby Avignon was the home of the Popes and the world capital city of the Catholic Church for almost 100 years. It was exclusive papal territory and not part of the then Kingdom of France, which surrounded it. The area continued to be papal territory until 1791.

Carpentras is accessible by train. The high-speed TGV stops in Avignon, 30 minutes away. Paris 90 minutes from the town.

The ultra-luxury Crillon le Brave Hotel is 40 minutes away and offers a taste of country chateau life with basic rooms starting around $400 per night. The Chateau de Mazan, in nearby Mazan has mid-week specials from $160 per night. The chateau was also once the home of the infamous Marquis de Sade.