Originally from Zambia and now based in Provence after twelve years in Paris, I have spent the past seventeen years living, studying, and working across France. My career has spanned education, culture, and luxury travel from teaching in French schools and Business English to professionals, contributing to Archi Expo Magazine, and working with American study abroad programs. 

 

As a certified tour guide, I have also led American students through the rich cultural heritage of Provence and the Côte d’Azur. In addition to these experiences, I collaborated with leading Destination Management Companies.

 

Travel has always been one of my greatest passions. Over the years, I have explored destinations including Santorini, all the Canary Islands, Italy, Spain, Finland, Belgium, Germany, Turkey, Réunion Island, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Kenya, South Africa, the Netherlands, and, of course, nearly every region of France to mention but a few places.

 

Beyond travel, I have a love for fine wines, memorable dining, wellness, playing volleyball, and discovering beautiful places, and ending the day with a captivating book. My soundtrack is as eclectic as my travels, ranging from classical and Celtic melodies to house, and oldies from different generations, pop rock and even some country music! 

Outside of travel design, I have explored much of France by motorcycle especially, discovering exceptional wine estates, charming villages, and remarkable dining experiences along the way.

 

I find equal inspiration in the arts whether attending the opera or ballet, wandering through museums and galleries, or enjoying long walks through Paris, a city that never ceases to captivate me. Having visited the Louvre more than thirty times, I continue to discover something new with every visit. Paris remains my favourite place in France. 

 

The Pyrenees were a standout highlight of the motorcycle tour (Normandy to Bretagne to Bordeaux, Lourdes, Pyrenees, and back to Paris ), offering a rare sense of calm and ethereal beauty.

 

Riding around the legendary “upside-down” Bugarach mountain was an extraordinary experience, surrounded by dramatic and almost mystical landscapes.

I explored the magnificent Château de Peyrepertuse and Quéribus, along with the timeless villages scattered throughout the region.

 

These ancient Cathar castles are deeply captivating, rich in history and mysticism, and truly a must-see for any discerning traveler.

 

 

My idea of a perfect day usually involves an early morning walk around Paris, 5 am if possible, when it’s still dark and there is not a soul in sight. Embracing this city of lights with an absolute calm makes a good start to the day ! 

 

Then a home-made smoothie with fruits, vegetables, with a dash, grains, berries, ginger and coffee. 

Alternatively breakfast at a lovely traditional French café while people watching or listening to some soft relaxing music.

 

I then enjoy shopping in different areas of Paris depending on the day. I have my hidden shopping spots for busy days to avoid crowds but on Saturday mornings, I limit my shopping time from 10h to 12, before the words come in! I love the hustle and bustle of a big city, but I avoid long lines at all costs!  

 

This is usually followed by lunch with or without other guests, and then a visit to an exhibition, beautiful gardens or museum or just wandering at the beauty of Paris, really! Otherwise, my go-to area is either the Latin quarter around my neighbourhood, or the Saint Germain des Pres/Odeon area, where I go to the swimming pool though not a good swimmer, at all! 

 

I usually enjoy a nice glass of wine, my favourite one being Gewustraminer (particularly Bott Freres) a lovely sweet white wine from Alsace, or à red Côte du Rhone to taste Provence, my second favourite region! 

 

I top this off by a movie, good restaurant, or book, and even better, a personal growth video or sometimes a nice jazz café. And that, constitutes my perfect day in Paris!