This year, I set my sights on following Brian Moran’s “12 Week Year” with determination. While I’m still in the process of fully implementing it, one thing it has done is bring structure into my life—particularly around scheduling holidays.
The first half of 2024 was incredible. I was unstoppable—full of energy, ticking off goals, and conquering every task in sight. But by the time July and August rolled around, I hit a wall. Exhaustion crept in, and my once-steady motivation vanished. I was drained, lacking the drive to accomplish anything. Then it hit me—I had forgotten to plan my holidays. I was teetering on the edge of burnout, and I had unwittingly lost months of productivity.
How could I have forgotten to schedule “me” time? Brian Moran talks about the importance of Break Out Blocks—three hours of non-work-related fun each week to help us recharge. But I had overlooked this simple, crucial rule. It wasn’t until I found myself scrambling to book a last-minute vacation in August that I realized my mistake. Eeeek.
Fast forward to today: lesson learned! I’ve mapped out my 2025 holiday plan, and I won’t be making that mistake again. This wasn’t just a chance to plan vacations, but also to step back from all the extra activities I juggle, like my Toastmasters morning sessions. Looking at my holiday plan brought me an immense sense of peace. It felt thoughtful, clear, and organized. Not only did it give me the well-deserved time to recharge, but it also created space for focused sprints where I could power through and achieve my goals.
Now, you might be wondering, where should you go to recharge?
I highly recommend the Bastide de Moustiers, the first inn created by Alain Ducasse. This culinary legend, with 21 Michelin stars across 34 restaurants worldwide, is an incredible chef, creator, and entrepreneur. Born in 1956 on a farm in the southwest of France, Ducasse discovered his love for fresh produce at just 16. His modest upbringing in the countryside, where he learned provincial cuisine under legendary chefs like Michel Guérard and Gaston Lenôtre, is a source of deep inspiration for him.
The Garden of Flavours
Ducasse’s philosophy revolves around simplicity—his roots are evident in everything he does. His life’s work, influenced by childhood memories of his grandmother’s cooking and his grandfather’s craftsmanship, has become his culinary signature. In all his restaurants, he emphasizes two things: making the most of what nature offers and connecting chefs to the land through vegetable gardens, local markets, and growers.
His second passion? Wood—especially oak, as a tribute to his grandfather. This love for oak is reflected in every one of his restaurants and hotels.
The Signature Style
In 2014, Ducasse and chef Romain Meder created a revolutionary ‘Naturality’ style at the Plaza Athénée in Paris. This style prioritizes grains, vegetables, and sustainably sourced fish, inspired by Ducasse’s childhood vegetable garden. “Vegetables weren’t fashionable at the time,” Ducasse says, “but I knew their authentic flavors deserved to be at the center of a dish.” His groundbreaking approach to glorifying simple, natural ingredients has become his culinary legacy.
The Name Ducasse
From humble beginnings, Ducasse’s childhood lessons became his secret weapon. With 34 Michelin stars to his name, he has cultivated a legendary leadership style that transformed him into the powerhouse he is today. Fittingly, the name “Ducasse” means “He who lives at the foot of the oak,” a nod to the strength, simplicity, and integrity that define him.
The Bastide de Moustiers
This hidden gem is where Ducasse’s love for Provence, hospitality, and authentic surroundings truly shines. Discovered by chance, the Bastide de Moustiers is a charming 18th-century residence surrounded by lavender fields and ancient olive trees, offering peace and tranquillity to soothe any lingering burnout. The atmosphere is the perfect blend of luxury and simplicity—true to Ducasse’s essence.
“I know because I grew up in that garden,” Ducasse says. “It’s where my quest for the perfect flavour began, and it still drives me today.”
Michelin-Starred Excellence
Whether you’re gazing out over the serene valley or savouring a meal in the lounges, the cuisine at Bastide de Moustiers reflects the place’s sincerity and authenticity. Seasonal vegetables take centre stage in every dish, a nod to Ducasse’s philosophy of using what’s available. His leadership style, rooted in glorifying the natural flavours of the produce, has built an empire where each chef has a voice while staying true to the “editorial line” set by Ducasse himself. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a living, breathing testament to what we can achieve with simple principles and a passion for excellence.
For me, visiting the Bastide de Moustiers is a must—an opportunity to taste pure, wholesome food and experience hospitality at its finest. It’s a glimpse into what 21 Michelin stars feel like and the perfection that arises from embracing nature, simplicity, and a dedication to ones craft.
