My First tour of Vietnam

Xin Chào Gastronomads,

My first Vietnam tour went off like a well directed Chinese opera full of colour, singing and outrageous fashion statements. Like any good opera, it's only ever as good as the actors, and our ready-for-anything gastronomads took centre stage. They were a fantastic group and a joy to travel with. My PA Rosie joined us which was very helpful as she's great company and talented at organising. She wore different versions of a smart singlet and shorts every day. I wore a different version of jewellery, sparkly sandals and ornate frocks every day.

We ate the most divine food and had some inspiring cooking classes. Think pumpkin flowers stuffed with prawns and dill, green mango salad, chicken and cabbage salad with jellyfish and coconut creme caramel. I personally loved our Saigon shopping guide Rosemary who rocked us around all the best fashion and interior decor secret places. As usual the last night dinner was a staid affair with dragon dancers, French cuisine, singing, dancing and declarations of undying love until we eventually fell into bed. We already have bookings for April 2017 ... so first in first served.

Half-day Workshops in Uzès

I will be at my home in Uzès, half an hour from Avignon, teaching sun-drenched Southern French recipes from May until the end of September 2016. Drop me a line if you fancy a class.
As you read this I'll be arriving in Uzès to reside in my newly built home for the first time.  And don't forget to check out life in Uzès according to moi in this month's Life & Leisure magazine. Out Now!

Peta