The French Ambassador, Christophe Farnaud
The French Ambassador, Christophe Farnaud
Image: Supplied

The one indulgence you would never forgo? Daily chats with my children via WhatsApp and Skype. They are in Paris. Our good luck is that there is no time difference.

The grooming staples you are never without? Hermès Eau d’Orange Verte and Avène Aftershave balm.

Your all-time favourite gadget? My Kindle.

The single object you would never part with? Books.

Your favourite drink? Rosé Champagne.

The restaurant you frequent most often? The French residence.

Your personal style signifier? My Montblanc fountain pen.

The last thing you bought and loved? A motorbike. South Africa is a perfect country for riding.

Your favourite timepiece and why? An old Impec watch. It was already a nice vintage item when my father gave it to me. I was six. I still wear it on special occasions.

An unforgettable place you’ve travelled to in the past year? The Cape of Good Hope. A mythical place, before and after you have been there.

The book on your bedside table? The Fortunes of Africa, by Martin Meredith.

The last meal that truly impressed you? A recent culinary journey hosted by young South African chef Wandile Mabaso, at the SA Culinary Club.

The last music you downloaded? The Soil, discovered at the last Grahamstown Festival.

The experience you are eyeing next? A good vacation with family and friends.

The one item you will always find in your fridge? Fruit juice.

The best gift you’ve given recently? Flight tickets to South Africa.

And the best one you’ve received? To be appointed as the French ambassador to South Africa.

The place that inspires you and why? My country house in the South of France. Peace and beauty.

A recent special find? The new Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town, with its fascinating architecture and exciting collection. I am impressed by the vitality of contemporary art in South Africa.

The last item you added to your wardrobe? A tailor-made grey suit.

Favourite city and why? Toulouse, in Southern France, for its ideal mix: culture, nice people, architecture, quality of life, hi-tech, rugby, fine weather, and great surroundings.

© Wanted 2024 - If you would like to reproduce this article please email us.
X