My favourite time in Paris would have to be (their) Spring. The gardens of The Tuileries and Luxembourg come to life with colour and people, the topiaries are beaming with new growth, green against the deliciously pale Parisian architecture…a feast for the senses. The flower shops throughout the country are bursting with stunning floral displays. On my last trip in June I spent time at the Jardins Jardin Garden Fair in the Tuileries and the Cote Sud fair in Aix en Provence. Both highlight the latest in garden design and alfresco living. At the Jardins Jardin fair I loved the whacky way one designer incorporated floral displays and mini aviaries within the body of these pine topiaries(see below). Another designer creates baths, sinks, lights, benches and other pieces out of zinc. At the Cote Sud fair I adored the little garden house (right). Inside was just enough room for a lounge & desk or a double bed, but it comes complete with ensuite, cosy sconce lighting, and a little decked terrace. It would make divine guest accommodation or a place to escape and write/read/meditate in the garden. The Cote Sud fair in Aix en Provence showcases a mix of art, clothing, outdoor furniture, vintage linens, decorative garden pieces, food and wine. It takes place on the second weekend in June each year. Cote Sud Magazine (my favourite French mag) hosts the fair and they have a stand selling all their back issues, so leave room in the suitcase for a bundle of these and pour over the gorgeous photography on your flight home! (www.cotesud.fr)