Another Year Over...

As we approach the end of 2024 and Christmas is just days away, I find myself pausing to reflect on the year that’s been. Again, it’s been quite a roller-coaster, both in my personal life and career, but there’s definitely a lot to be grateful for. For those of you who have joined my newsletter this year, welcome! Your presence here means a lot to me, and I really do hope you’ll stick around in 2025. And for those who have been following along since the early days of this newsletter, thank you for your support and curiosity. I hope the stories and experiences I’ve shared continue to inspire you, just as your connection inspires me to keep writing this newsletter.

2024 has been a whirlwind—a year filled with new beginnings, travels to enchanting places, and wonderful projects. While I could write volumes about everything this year has brought, I wanted to take this opportunity to share nine highlights that brought me joy, growth, and inspiration.

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1. Collaborating with the Vegan Academy

In January, I began a rewarding collaboration with respected vegan Dutch chef, Joris Schildknecht of the Vegan Academy. Joris offers workshops and courses for anyone interested in vegan cooking, and he’s doing an amazing job at elevating plant-based cuisine through education and the academy’s beautiful recipes. I am thrilled to have been a part of the Vegan Academy this year with recipes inspired by French and Italian traditions. I also shared a personal article detailing our transition to a plant-based diet—a significant shift for a culinary journalist whose career revolves around French cuisine. The journey not only enhanced our health, but also expanded my culinary creativity, challenging the many misconception of plant-based cuisine. Believe me, the possibility with plants are endless, and I’ve never eaten so well in my life (just take a look at the tomato “steak tartare” below!). I’m grateful to the Vegan Academy for giving me a platform to share my recipes and insights. You can see my contributions here. And if you’d like to see a small selection of some of my special plant-based recipes, you can access my booklet Plant-Based Eating with Joie de Vivre free with a subscription or buy it here.

2. Exploring Málaga at the H&T Innovation Summit

In February, I attended the H&T Innovation Summit in Málaga along with a small group of international fellow journalists to explore Europe’s hospitality and tourism innovations. The city’s historic center, with its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, provided a picturesque backdrop for this short but intense press trip. A memorable moment was that first day. After I checked into my hotel, I went to enjoy a lunch of tapas and a glass of cava in front of the Málaga Cathedral, an architectural gem known as “La Manquita” due to its unfinished south tower. It was early February, and I ate outdoors under a sunny, clear blue sky! Málaga’s blend of history, culture, and culinary delights really left a lasting impression on me. From its ancient Roman theater and the grandeur of the Moorish Alcazaba to the modern art at the Picasso Museum, Málaga’s sun-drenched plazas and warm Mediterranean ambiance make it a must-visit, in case you’re looking for tips in 2025.

3. Writing for the Michelangelo Foundation

This year, I contributed to the Michelangelo Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting fine craftsmanship. Writing for their international Homo Faber Guide, has not only given me the opportunity to put my background in art to good use, but it has truly been a joy to share the journey of some of Europe’s most talented and passionate artisans. More than that, speaking with them has been an inspiration. The foundation’s commitment to creativity and craftsmanship aligns with my own values of hard work and perseverance, making this collaboration particularly meaningful.

4. Contributing to Family Owned Magazine

Since last April, I’ve had the pleasure of writing for Family Owned, the magazine of Dutch wine importers Kwast Wijnkopers. My inaugural article focused on the wines of Berticot in Duras, that beautiful French town in Lot-et-Garonne. which is so dear to me. Since the collaboration started, I’ve had the chance to speak with fascinating winegrowers across France and Italy. These often hour-long conversations, where they so generously share their stories and winemaking philosophies, never feel like work. Writing about wine is such an incredible joy. Just last Friday, I spoke with Guillaume Philip of Domaine des Diables in Provence—an insightful conversation that I look forward to sharing with you this coming spring, so stay tuned! Want to read some of my work? Have a look here, here, and here. Note that the articles are in Dutch.

5. A Week in Normandy

June brought a delightful week in Normandy, where we revisited the historic city of Caen. One of our favorite restos was Monsieur Louis, on Place Saint-Sauveur. The restaurant has a classic French menu, but also offers a selection of plant-based dishes that are absolutely amazing. That entire week, though quite rainy and gray, revolved around wining, dining, and relaxing. It had been a while since I had taken a real break. The previous year, when we rented the same little house, my mornings started at 5AM. First work, then fun. A good thing? I’m not so sure.

6. Discovering Italy's Langhe Region

In July, I explored Italy’s Langhe region and had the opportunity to discover Albeisa wines. Among the many experience was truffle hunting—a thrilling adventure through the picturesque landscapes—and a cooking lesson with Fernanda Giamello of Effe FOOD. In her welcoming kitchen, we crafted traditional Piemontese tajarin and peaches stuffed with chocolate, immersing ourselves in the rich culinary heritage and fine wines (Barolo! Barbaresco!) of the region. The Langhe’s harmonious blend of gastronomy, wine, and culture made this journey unforgettable. You can read more about this experience here.

7. Exploring the Colli Berici DOC

Speaking of Italy, another highlight was discovering the Colli Berici in Italy. Alongside fellow wine journalists, I explored this lesser-known DOC, visiting seven wineries and engaging with passionate producers. The journey was enriched by a cultural visit to Vicenza, a city renowned for its Palladian architecture. I devoted several posts to this experience, which you can read here, here, and here.

8. Writing for KLM's Holland Herald

I had the honor of contributing to KLM’s inflight magazine, Holland Herald. In the November issue, I explored the world’s top pastry shops (I was even a featured writer!), and in December, I delved into street art. One piece that stood out was Don’t Fear the Other Side by Kirsten Sandlin in Memphis, Tennessee. Inspired by her children and personal challenges, the mural depicts a young boy peeking around a wall, symbolizing the courage to embrace change and the unknown. Sandlin’s mural is a poignant reminder that often, something exciting and unexpected awaits if we only let go of our fears (note to self). You can read the article here.

9. Watching Monsieur Aznavour

As a devoted fan of Charles Aznavour, watching the film Monsieur Aznavour just a few weeks ago was an emotional experience. The movie offers an intimate glimpse into the life of the legendary singer, whose music has been a constant companion in my life. I had the chance to see Charles live in 2018 for my 40th birthday, just months before his passing, and it truly was one of the highlights of my life. I shared my admiration for Aznavour in an ode, which you can read here.

Heading into 2025, I can only hope that the new year will bring as much fulfilment as these past 12 months have. Here’s to new adventures, writing about food, wine, and all the things that fill my heart! I wish you all a year filled with joy, love, and peace. Thank you for being part of my journey this year.