Simon Kessler – Simon went on to race as a professional for 6 years with some of the world best and won two professional national road championship titles. Moving into a coaching career (Simon Says Cycling) Simon has had the pleasure of coaching all levels of cyclists from top pros to weekend warriors. One of his former clients and good friend Daryl Impey, was the first South African to wear the yellow jersey in the Tour de France.
Simon’s French and German parents has resulted in him living and traveling to Europe and the Tour de France extensively since the 1990s. In 2007, Simon made the decision to bring his love of travel and the Tour de France to his fellow cyclists and active travel enthusiasts. Voila Gourmet Cycling Travel!
Jonathan Chiri – Chef Jonathan began his career in the early 1990’s in California, notably at The San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito and Restaurant Catahoula in Napa Valley. Moving north to Seattle he was given his first opportunity to run a kitchen as Sous-Chef at the renowned vegetarian restaurant Carmelita. Then it was down to the south and a few years spent in New Orleans as part of the opening team at Restaurants Cuvee, Stella and August. From there, he first set foot in Europe and quickly fell in love with its foods and cultures. He began with a stint at the Romantik Hotel Spielweg in the Black Forest of Germany, followed by a short “stages” in Berlin and Barcelona.
Next it was on to France and the sunshine of Provençe. He spent 4 years at the famed 1 Michelin starred La Mirande in Avignon, eventually becoming Pastry Chef of their gourmet restaurant and the Chef of their cooking school, La Marmiton. Here he developed a harmonious relationship with the hotel and continues to participate in their program of cooking classes.
Jean Michel Porzyk
Gary Stern
Angelo Furlan