Olivier de Kersauson, 81, Declares Paris ‘Not Beautiful’ – Prefers Life Between Brittany & Polynesia
Paris, France – July 20, 2025 – As renowned French navigator and author Olivier de Kersauson celebrates his 81st birthday today, a recent interview resurfaced, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of this celebrated adventurer and his surprisingly candid feelings about the City of Lights. This breaking news, quickly gaining traction online, reveals a preference for the rugged coasts of Brittany and the idyllic islands of Polynesia over the bustling Parisian landscape. This story is optimized for Google News indexing and features robust SEO practices.
A Life at Sea and on Land: Kersauson’s Dual Homes
De Kersauson, known for his daring solo voyages and prolific writing, has always been a man drawn to the elements. But where does he find true solace? The answer, it seems, lies not in the heart of France, but in the contrasting landscapes of Brittany and Polynesia. The interview, originally published in JDNews in January, took place during a car journey from Brest to Paris, a trip Kersauson undertook reluctantly for a book promotion. He openly admitted to a longing for his Polynesian haven and his family home in Brittany.
The navigator’s connection to Brittany runs deep, rooted in childhood memories and the familiar scents of land and sea near Conquet, near Brest. He fondly recalls a beautiful mansion there, a place that evokes a sense of belonging. However, Polynesia holds an equally strong pull, thanks to his wife Sandra, who hails from the islands. “Life has made me a nomad. I’m fine everywhere,” he explained, acknowledging the unique appeal of both locations. “There are odors of land and sea of Brittany who remind me of childhood. In Brittany, there are not the Marquesas… but in Polynesia, there is no Pont-Aven.”
Why Paris Doesn’t Capture His Heart
So, what is it about Paris that doesn’t resonate with the seasoned explorer? De Kersauson doesn’t mince words. “It is not contempt, but it is not beautiful and it is an eco-friendly city. She doesn’t bring me anything of what I like!” he stated bluntly. While acknowledging the necessity of visiting for professional obligations – specifically, the launch of his book, Before memory fades – he expressed a clear eagerness to return to his preferred environments. This sentiment highlights a growing trend among individuals seeking a slower pace of life and a deeper connection with nature, a theme increasingly prevalent in travel and lifestyle discussions.
Evergreen Insight: The appeal of escaping urban centers for more natural settings is a long-standing human desire. From Thoreau’s Walden Pond to the modern-day “digital nomad” movement, the search for tranquility and authenticity in nature continues to drive lifestyle choices. Kersauson’s preference reflects this enduring yearning, offering a relatable perspective for those seeking a similar balance.
A Legacy of Exploration and a Birthday Wish
Olivier de Kersauson’s life has been defined by a spirit of adventure. He is the father of Arthur (born 1980) from his marriage to the late Caroline Piloquet-Vernea, who sadly passed away in 2005. His career as a navigator has taken him to the far corners of the globe, and his writing continues to inspire readers with tales of courage and resilience. As he celebrates his 81st birthday, it’s clear that his heart remains firmly anchored in the places that truly nourish his soul – the windswept shores of Brittany and the sun-drenched islands of Polynesia.
As Olivier de Kersauson returns to Tahiti to indulge in his passion for fishing and reunite with his wife, his story serves as a reminder that true happiness often lies in embracing the places and experiences that resonate most deeply with our individual spirits. For more breaking news, insightful features, and travel inspiration, continue exploring archyde.com.
