In this series, we are interviewing members of our club, so that you can get to know each other a bit better. Today we talk with Aleksandra Bursiak about her life and work in the region.
What brought you to the French Riviera? How long have you been here?
I came to the French Riviera in 2018 as an intern of local event agency (Spice Up) in Juan-les-Pins.
At the time I was supposed to spend only 8 months and return to finish my linguistic studies in Warsaw. But I fell completely in love with the region and with opportunities it offers.
I’ve decided to move here at the beginning of 2021 (during covid). The reason of my move was simple – I am a passionate cycling and I was since a long time looking to establish myself somewhere where I could practice this activity all year long.
Could you tell us about your professional career? What do or did you do for work?
As mentioned, in the ‘old, pre-covid regime’ I was working in the events industry as a project manager.
I came back to France during Covid, after graduating from the Faculty of Applied Linguistics of University of Warsaw. And luckily that I had this ‘in the pocket’ – as it enabled me to do some remote translation mostly in cycling and marketing field. I also worked as a freelance interpreter in the Tribunal of Grasse.
What does the company that you work for do?
I can share a bit on what my last company does. For which I was employed until end of March this year – ever heard about Café du Cycliste ?
It’s a luxury clothing brand & boutique with a coffee corner for cyclists. And all the outdoor sports enthusiasts – swimmers, hikers … Basically all the sports you can do on French Riviera.
They are born in Nice and located in the port of Nice in an outstanding lofty space that used to be an art gallery.
In their designs they get inspiration from big names in Sports & Fashion industry like Hilfiger and Lacoste. But also local brands like Agnès B, they have just announced their new capsule collection.
A spot not to miss!
Why did you decide to start your own business?
I am self-employed since 2021, but it was at the beginning mostly translation gigs. Last year I made a huge step forward by applying for a local start up competition ‘Travel Camp Sud Challenge’.
My business project got selected to the finals. Since then I have worked hard my way to make it a reality and kick-off well this season.
I am now running my own eco-friendly event agency. Organising team-buildings and seminars combining local products tastings and outdoor sports practice. Like cycling / well-being – such as yoga.
As an example these will be Bike n’Wine / Beer Experiences in a collaboration with local breweries and Châteaux or wine domains.
Or Yoga n’Bike Retreat in Eco-responsible domaine in the countryside of Nice. I can also accommodate all sorts of corporate requests around sport like corporate/charity ride with tasting and lunch, sunset hike with apéro or even pétanque competition! (all Frenchy accents are more than welcome!).
My offer can be also adapted to the individual rides – on my website – www.frenchrivieralikealocal.com there is a calendar of regular Bike n’Wine / Beer Experiences I propose every two weeks that are open to the public.
If you would like to book a private tour somewhere else or just borrow a bike (e-bike / road) for yourself or a group – don’t hesitate to reach out!
I also offer private cycling-guiding as She’s a Cyclist / www.shesacyclist.com
What would be your best advice to others thinking about living or working on the French Riviera?
Stop thinking – start doing 😉
I am honestly very much into hands-on-work approach and I would simply say – don’t be afraid and just DARE TO !
Of course, maybe it’s easy for me to say, as I spoke French already before coming which of course help a bit.
Also – it helps to have some hobby you enjoy doing and find people you could share your passion with – building your network starts from day 1!
You can use Facebook (like Business Club Côte d’Azur) or MeetUp groups to find lookalikes and enjoy your French Riviera experience to the fullest !
Fun facts about Aleksandra Bursiak!
Since when do you live on the French Riviera?
Since 2021, January.
Where are you originally from?
Warsaw, Poland.
What is your favourite wine?
White wine from Château de Crémat.
What is your favourite spot on the French Riviera?
Café du Cycliste, Coco Beach and Mont Boron in Nice.
What French word, expression or sentence do you find very difficult to pronounce?
Éteindre vs. étendre. And cintre vs. ceinture 😅. Always need an extra seconds to reflect which one is which.
Networking = connecting the dots. I won’t lie if I say that it’s my second passion. After cycling of course.
I just absolutely love to connect and meet new people and facilitate their stay on Côte d’Azur!
How hard it is in the beginning only an expat can get. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me, even to have a drink or a friendly chat !
Would you like to be introduced on our website and social channels as well? Sign up for the Business Membership or contact us for more information.
