16/09/2026
🇿🇦✈️🇫🇷 My French Culinary Adventure - Alexis’ story ✨
When Alexis arrived in France as a student chef from Prue Leith Culinary Institute, she expected to learn about French cuisine. But her experience at Hôtel & Spa Le Dracy turned into so much more.
She discovered the reality of working in a French kitchen, learned from local chefs, worked with local ingredients and experienced the traditions behind French gastronomy. 🍴🇫🇷
“When I arrived in France as a student chef, I knew I was going to learn about food, but I never imagined how much the experience would teach me about life.”
Living in a small French village also allowed Alexis to experience a different side of France. And during her days off, she travelled to Lyon, Annecy and Paris, discovering new places, flavours and cultures. 🌍
“These trips were a perfect balance to the long hours in the kitchen. During the week, I was focused on becoming a better chef; on my days off, I was a traveller discovering new places, flavours, and experiences.”
Looking back, Alexis says her time in France taught her to step outside her comfort zone, appreciate different cultures and make the most of every opportunity.
“I arrived in France as a student chef, but I left with greater confidence, unforgettable memories, and a much deeper love for food and travel.” ❤️
We’re proud to have been part of Alexis’ journey and grateful to Prue Leith Culinary Institute, Maria Dixon, Adele Stiehler-van der Westhuizen and Hôtel & Spa Le Dracy for supporting this international experience. 🇿🇦❤️🇫🇷
