Patrick Benhamou | Director of Atout France, Australia
Patrick Benhamou has worked all over the globe promoting his homeland of France. Now based in Australia, he is the director of Atout France, the agency responsible for the development of tourism in France.
Benhamou was born in the medieaval village of Provins. The town is UNESCO World Heritage listed for being built in the 10th century, and boasts an elegantly designed hotel called ‘Le Cesar’.
Patrick began his travel industry career in Los Angeles, working to promote the best wines of France.
After working as a Gentil Organisateur, another name for staff, at Club Med, he moved back to France and lived in Paris, continuing to work for Club Med but now in their advertising department.
In 1980, Benhamou was hired to open the French Tourism Bureau in Sydney. He has remained with the organisation since that time, representing France in Amsterdam, Montreal and Sydney.
The brilliant visitor numbers that France enjoys from Australia is regarded by Benhamou as one of the highlights of his career. Over 1 million Australians are travelling to France every year.
With over two decades of experience promoting France, travelBulletin asked Benhamou to share with our readers some of his favourite things in France.
FAVOURITE HOTEL
THERE are just so many wonderful hotels in France that it is impossible for me to narrow it down to just one. I love Terre Blanche in Provence for its’ rows and rows of lavender, the olive scented air, the 300 hectare estate and 18 hole golf course. Les Sources de Caudalie near Bordeaux is another must see, heralded by many as the inventors of vinotherapy with their wine inspired spa, as well as the chic country hotel itself. Finally, Le Phebus in the Luberon is build entirely in dry stone and its rooms are steeped in history. The formidable talent of the chef Xavier Mathieu is the icing on the cake. He breathes new life into ancient provincial recipes making food that is to die for.
FAVOURITE FRENCH BISTRO
L’AMI Louis, in Paris is my favourite for its old world decor, cheeky service and unbelievable food, completely worth the slightly steeper price tag. It is true Gallic triumph in my eyes, a once in a lifetime experience.
BEST GOURMET EXPERIENCE
THE three Michelin starred Alain Ducasse restaurant, Le Jules Verne, which is embedded in the Eiffel Tower elevates fine dining to a new pinnacle.
