Among the many 'bucket list' experiences, attending the Franschhoek Literary Festival (FLF) should become a constant, and priority item. Irrespective of whether you are an artist, reader, writer, critic, tourist or resident. The FLF is exceptional and special. The craftsmanship, language, technique, tenacity, guts, inspirations, entertainment, humour, and fascination of being amongst those at the pinnacle of their abilities is heady.

Dinner with George, at the Salmon Bar did not disappoint. The service was attentive and intelligent. The food excellent. Polly was well looked after and I’m sure, the conversation unintelligible. As it should be after the amount of wine we drank.

Walking through the streets of Franschhoek on glorious autumn days, with skies Midi Blue (in the words of bestselling author Kate Mosse), and the leaves, golden, was unbelievably special. This between talks that challenged, enticed, entertained and stimulated.

On a quieter day, we had a very good late lunch at Le Quartier Francais where the food held attention. This within the glorious garden setting, while international bestselling artists strolled past. Rhubarb and goats cheese risottos. Squid in a light saffron, coconut and curry sauce. Beef short rib and bacon crumble. Tempura beans and a bottle of Môreson bubbles our menu choice. Simply sensational.

We visited the galleries, with the portraits by Luhanri Bekker arresting, and then surprisingly bumped into Lindsey, after seeing her work in the excellent The Yard Gallery space.

I even have a new book to read!

Alexander McCall Smith in Franschhoek