The Melbourne travel community gathered to celebrate Bastille Day at a charming venue in Armadale, graciously hosted by Annabelle Brown, state manager Victoria and Tasmania for PONANT.
The gathering was to highlight the significance of Bastille Day and its connection to French culture and heritage.
The event took place at The French Kitchen, is a cooking school within the home of Diane Holuigue.
Guests were transported to a rustic French kitchen adorned with copper pans and eclectic art pieces from around the world.
Guests in attendance included Gary Seignor (Verve Travel, incorporating Bay Travel), Ian Mollison (Helloworld Balwyn North), James Jang (Where 2 Travel Malvern), Natalie Daw (Helloworld Camberwell), Judy Gillard (Bayview Travel), Deb Carr (Helloworld Surrey Hills), Rachel Quinton (Global International Travel), Lisa Ahearn (Destination HQ) and Ines Iniesta (Journey Beyond).
They enjoyed a delightful afternoon of preparing French cuisine guided by Holuigue herself. The menu featured classic French dishes paired with fine wines, creating a true gastronomic experience.
Throughout the event, trade partners mingled and shared stories of travel adventures, reflecting on their own experiences with PONANT and other travel endeavours.
The event not only celebrated French culture but also strengthened connections within the travel community in Melbourne, embodying the spirit of travel and exploration cherished by PONANT.
Feature image: Diane Holuigue (centre) with guests Gary Seignor, Ian Mollison, James Jang, Natalie Daw, Judy Gillard, Deb Carr, Rachel Quinton, Lisa Ahearn and Ines Iniesta.
