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 Bea ‘BEE’ Bonner about her life and work in the region.
What brought you to the French Riviera? How long have you been here?
Three years ago, I moved to the French Riviera to change my life. I used to weigh quite a bit, 102kg, and my life wasn’t going too well because of it.
At the age of 26, I couldn’t get up the stairs. And life was becoming expensive in Florida where I was living with a lot of medical bills!
When I moved here I started a weight loss journey which I completed last year, a loss of 45kg!
I now live and work in Beausoleil/Monaco as a private chef and caterer.
Could you tell us about your professional career? What do or did you do for work?
Since my late teens, I have had a passion for cooking. I started my career as a cook in my dad’s restaurant in Florida.
That’s where I learned everything I know and I am learning more every day.
I currently work for myself, and run my own catering company Sushi Honey. My specialty is sushi but I can make anything you like!
Why did you decide to start your own business?
I decided to work for myself as a private chef because I was sick of working under grumpy chefs who wanted things doing their way or the highway!
Now I can cook how and when, and for whom I like!
What would be your best advice to others thinking about living or working on the French Riviera?
My best advice for living here is that while it is beautiful and there are many english-speaking people here who can help to make you successful, it is very important and helps A LOT to learn French!
Fun facts about Bea Bonner!
Since when do you live on the French Riviera?
3 years.
Where are you originally from?
Nottingham, England.
What is your favourite wine?
Anything sweet, I have a sweet tooth!
What is your favourite spot on the French Riviera?
Èze Village or Monaco.
What French word, expression or sentence do you find very difficult to pronounce?
Pneu, the word for tyre!
Positivity is key and BEE yourself, always!
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