Keeping up with the Kolbes
They were warned that adjusting to life in a new country could be difficult and depressing – but rugby player CHESLIN KOLBE and his wife, LAYLA, say their move to France has been the complete opposite. “Besides the language and the lack of braai marinades it’s been great and we’ve been making the most of every day,” Layla (25) tells us. The couple, who wed in Cape Town in December, say life has been a busy but exciting journey since their move in August last year after Cheslin signed a contract to play for French team Toulouse. The only thing that’s been difficult is being so far from their families. “We come from a huge and close-knit family,” Cheslin (24) says. “Family is everything, so that was quite sad when we made the big move. But we try to stay positive and look at the amazing opportunities we have before us.” They’ve done quite a bit of sightseeing in France and Layla and their 11-month-old daughter, Kylah, have been to Italy to visit Layla’s aunt. Their next family trip will be to Spain. They’re trying out French cuisine and doing their best to learn the language. “Layla uses the Google Translate app every time she goes to the mall,” Cheslin says. “I’m learning fast as I’m constantly surrounded by my French teammates and coaching is in French. The club also offers weekly French lessons.” Sounds as if the Kolbes have found their feet in France. But Layla says she’s still getting used to being referred to as “Madame Kolbe”!