On today’s season finale, I’m joined by one of the world’s greatest chefs, Raymond Blanc.Raymond had a very humble start to life in rural France and his journey to opening Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, the internationally-renowned Cotswolds country house hotel where he’s been the chef patron since it opened in 1984 is nothing short of extraordinary. For half of his life he’s held two Michelin stars - the only chef in the UK to have retained two stars for so long. And of course in time, with his success, he has travelled the world, and has many stories to tell. I spoke to Raymond at the Cheval Three Quays apartments, looking out at the London skyline. I don’t think I’ve ever met somebody overflowing with as much passion and joie de vivre as Raymond. It came as no surprise to hear that 34 of his protégés have gone on to win their own Michelin stars, including Marco Pierre White and Michael Caines. His passion is infectious.Destination recap:Franche-Comté, FranceSwitzerlandProvence, FranceBesançon, FranceKuching, Malaysia Japanese Tea House Garden, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, EnglandBarocay, Philippines Hong KongNice, Provence, FranceBelmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons celebrates 35 years this year.Thank you so much for listening. If you haven’t yet left a 5 star rating, why not do so now! Your support is so greatly appreciated and most importantly, helps others to discover the podcast. Come and find me on Instagram - I’m @hollyrubenstein - and to find out more about the podcast, visit TheTravelDiariesPodcast.com This episode was produced by Holly Rubenstein See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.