Why? Auctions are a chance to see rare treasures up close and possibly for the only time depending on their buyers. The Leonard Lauder auction, which featured art from his home and apartment recently made headlines for record pricing. He represents an era of cultural giving that seems on the decline. But, especially in New York, anyone can glimpse the treasures and the process live.

Nantes, France is a city with a dual nature. A port city though inland, art works that nod to the cities working class roots, and a food scene that befits its place close to the Loire valley yet firmly in Brittany. My visit was prompted by an article in The Sunday Times, which called out how Nantes is an overlooked city.

Ile d’Oleron is good-sized island off the coast of France in the western France on the Bay of Biscay. Accessible by car, bus or ferry, the island features a network of small towns. Each has it’s own personality, but the rhythm of the island is driven by the tides, oyster harvesting and sailing harbors.

The weather has been tough this July, but a few outings made the temperature more bearable. Here’s a few ideas to keep you cool and enriched.