Riviera Insider - March/April 2017

GaRDeNs The region’s first Festival des Jardins

aNtIBes Port Vauban in the modern age

teNNIs Countdown to Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters

Real estate Exclusive interview with Reed MIDEM CEO

riviera see more, do more, know more

# 171 march / aPril 2017 4,90 â‚Ź The

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EDITORIAL

By PetRa Hall

spring is my most eagerly awaited season in the French Riviera. It heralds the return of warmth and growth after what is one of the quietest times of the year for our adopted home; both economically and culturally.

In the green spaces of the Côte d’azur, the first edition of the Festival des Jardins will be celebrating the gardening heritage and prestige of the region. as the first days of spring crept into the Riviera, we toured the great and wondrous domaines of the Riviera, from the iconic setting of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on saint-JeanCap-Ferrat to the charming, botanical havens built by the British Hanbury dynasty in Liguria. all of these gardens are yours to explore too (pages 20 to 25).

In antibes, we find the spirit of rebirth and regeneration with the transformation of the historic Port Vauban under the bold proclamation of a ‘model port for a

modern era’, the story of which you can read on pages 16 to 19. and as Riviera Insider nears its 15th anniversary of publishing, France will be beginning a new chapter in its history under a new president. When we went to print, the polls suggested it was fair game for the nominees and each was still in contention. at least - as one journalist noted - with Fillon, Macron, Le Pen, Hamon and Mélenchon all potential candidates for office, we know the next French president will end in ‘n’.

tHe teaM

ELsa CaRPENTER

JaMEs ROLLaND

CaROLE HéBERT

DOMINIQUE FREULON

aILa sTöCKMaNN

VINCENT aRTUs

KaRINE BaLaGNy

MICHEL GOMIZ

Nearly 25 years ago, Petra Hall (Riviera Insider’s editor-in-chief) founded the newspaper Riviera Côte d’azur Zeitung in German, which was followed by The Riviera Times in 2003. These titles have now blossomed under the names Riviera Insider and RivieraZeit into attractive, contemporary magazines. The goal from the beginning was to provide readers with exciting, informative and unique insights from the Mediterranean written by professional mother-tongue journalists.

Petra Hall has become an institution in the south of France and Monaco's media landscape. elsa Carpenter (editor of Riviera Insider) joined the team in spring 2016 with fresh ideas and a modern vision for the magazine. Having worked as a journalist in the south of France for many years - some of you may recognise her name - she is deeply invested in the culture and lifestyle of the Côte d’azur and is keen to share her passion for the region with our readers. aila stöckmann (editor of RivieraZeit) has been divulging her passion for and her knowledge of the Côte d’azur with our readers for more than ten years. The German born mother-of-two loves the region, the sun, the beautiful landscape and – obviously – the German language magazine RivieraZeit.

James Rolland (Managing Director) is an experienced entrepreneur with an extensive career background in the Us and France. The Parisian is excited to be joining Riviera Press and become acquainted with our unique leadership. James is a passionate musician and amateur chef.

Vincent artus (art director) has a gift for transforming visions and ideas into reality. The Niçois creative talent has as a penchant for clean lines and playing with white space for optimum effect and has brought a fresh, stylish look to our publication. The multi-talented creative is also a photographer and videographer.

Carole Hébert (secretary) is the heart and soul of the team. Besides dealing with accounting, subscription management and reader concerns, this native of northern France has a knack with numbers and always ensures everything in the office is ticking over perfectly.

Karine Balagny (marketing) loves the international flair of the company. after several years of living in the Usa, and thanks to her experience in sales and events, the native of Normandy has found her dream position in our multi-cultural publishing house.

Dominique Freulon (communication & PR), who was born in Paris and has been living on the Côte d'azur for 15 years, puts maximum energy and dynamism into working in our marketing department. she is a true 'people person' and has always been an admirer of our magazines. Her hobbies are travelling in faraway countries and literature.

Michel Gomiz (communication & PR) lives for his profession. For 23 years he has been working as a media consultant for fashion, jewellery and other luxury items between the Côte d’azur and Paris. One of his hidden talents is playing the drums.

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Issue #171 sEE MORE, DO MORE, KNOW MORE

conTenTs

The Hotlist Top news & trends

10 Success Story

Cover photo © Camille Moirenc

Port Vauban: a model port for a modern era

16 Gardens an interview with renowned designer Jean Mus

20 stately homes

23 Photo Will it be a tenth Win in a roW for nadal at the monte-carlo rolex masters?

The English gardens of Liguria

24

Business an interview with Reed MIDEM President and CEO Paul Zilk

28 Décor Château Le Cagnard: charm and authenticity

32 King of Cotton: fine linens on land and at sea

34 Politics Two journalists weigh up the candidates and their likelihoods of success in the 2017 election

36 Charity Mimosa: a community against cancer

38 Monaco Unknown Monaco: child welfare association aMaDE

42 Style Male model: latest menswear boutiques and collections

46 an interview with Nue 19.04 founder Cyril Paillot

47 Women’s edit

Sport Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters: so much more than tennis

56 Golf a place in the sun: Golf Club de Beauvallon

58 Gourmet Intimacy at Le Cannet’s Le Café de la Place

60 When wine moves mountains: a Trincea

62 Culture Organic adventures with Chris Cook in antibes

66 Musée Bonnard: what goes on behind closed doors

68 an interview with the new director of the Orchestre de Cannes, Benjamin Levy

71 Events see more, do more, known more this March and april

50

72

Lifestyle

74

Gearing up for Top Marques

54

Photos from the Riviera Press event

Expat Focus Kim Woodey: an independent trainer for the yachting industry

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The hoTlisT

Pedro Almodóvar in Cannes President of the jury

It has been a quarter of a century since spanish icon Pedro almodóvar first walked the festival’s red carpet as part of the feature film jury under Gérard Depardieu. 35 years have passed since his legendary film career began and it is double that for the history of the Festival International du Film de Cannes. In 2017, almodóvar himself will preside over the 70th Cannes Film Festival. “I am very happy to be able to celebrate the Festival de Cannes’ 70th anniversary from such a privileged position,” said almodóvar, responding to the invitation to act as president of the jury by festival president Pierre Lescure. “I am grateful, honoured and a bit overwhelmed. I am aware of the responsibility that entails being the president of the jury and I hope to be up to the job. I can only tell you that I’ll devote myself - body and soul - to this task that it is both a privilege and a pleasure.”

“For its 70th edition, the Festival de Cannes is delighted to welcome a unique and hugely popular artist,” said Lescure of almodóvar. “His works have already carved out an eternal niche in the history of film.”

© Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock, Inc.

Over the years, the cult director has presented six films at the prestigious industry event. Five of his score of productions - all about my Mother (Todo sobre mi Madre, Best Director), Volver (Best screenplay, Best Collective Female Performance), Broken Embraces (Los abrazos Rotos), The skin I Live In, and Julieta – have been selected in competition at Cannes. In 2004, Bad Education (La Mala Educación) became the first spanish film ever to open the festival. a few years later, almodóvar was featured on the poster of the 60th event.

“With his dazzling and iconoclastic 35-year filmography career, this virtuoso storyteller has forged a strong bond with filmgoers the world over,” say organisers. “His 20 films form an incandescent œuvre; a legacy of his punk, protest-filled youth and driven by an insatiable passion for female figures and the history of film itself. Ever surprising and eclectic, but always coherent, the director from La Mancha can turn his hand to any genre – vaudeville, farce, tragedy, fantasy. musical or thriller – while never losing sight of his pet themes: passion, filiation, destiny, guilt and buried secrets.”

Cannes Film Festival will be taking place from 17th to 28th May. The official selection for the annual competition and further members of the jury will be announced in mid-april. 

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The hoTlisT

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Riviera: Sky Atlantic’s new thriller deceit & dePravity against a backdroP of the côte d’azur

Who needs the drama of Hollywood when there’s the French Riviera! In a new 10-part series from sky atlantic, the dark side of the Côte d’azur raises its head in a luxuriously-set thriller by academy award-winning writer Neil Jordan.

With the dazzling French Riviera and its infamous excesses as its backdrop, the stylish and sun-kissed tale charters the moral descent of Georgina Clios (played

by Julia stiles of the Bourne trilogy, Dexter and 10 Things I Hate about you), a smart and resourceful art curator who is thrown into turmoil when her husband of one year is presumed dead following a mysterious explosion on board a Russian oligarch and arm dealer’s mega-yacht.

Unhappy with the police investigation into billionaire Constantine Clios’ death, Georgina strikes out on her own to uncover the truth,

encountering the corrupt and depraved world of the filthy rich. The reality of her husband’s part in the ‘complex web of deceit and depravity’ is revealed as she begins to realise what kind of man she married. stiles has commented on the series, saying, “shooting ‘Riviera’ has been such an experience already. The locations we’re using are stunning and the cast is really solid. In the centre of the show we have this world of luxury and excess with Georgina as the heroine of the piece. The show is driven by a number of powerful female characters, such as Irina, the first wife of her husband Constantine, played by Lena Olin. They both radiate power, but in different ways.

The show takes you into the hidden world of the super-rich - it's glamourous, it's unpredictable. all is not what it seems.” starring alongside the actress in the show, which is based on an original story by former U2 manager Paul McGuinness, is a compelling cast of Iwan Rheon (Game of Thrones), academy award nominee Lena Olin (Vinyl, Chocolat) and adrian Lester (Undercover, London spy).

Riviera is due to be launched soon in 2017. 

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Open sky shoPPing in valbonne

Cap 3000 and Polygone Riviera will soon have a new competitor: Open sky Valbonne. The 100,000m2 retail development in the Clausonnes area, which borders Valbonne and antibes was first revealed at the 2016 MaPIC international retail property trade show and now the architectural vision for the project has been revealed.

It will be four to five years before the shopping centre, located at the western fringe of sophia antipolis, opens. Within the plot will be a two-storey triangular building rising above an artificial lake. This will hold 60,000m2 of retail space (around 150 stores and boutiques); 20,000m2 of office space; a 10,000m2 hotel (which is reported to be a Hilton); 10,000m2 of restaurant and recreational facilities; and 2,800 car parking spaces.

The architect for the project is none other that Gianni Ranaulo of Compagnie de Phalsbourg, the designers behind the new diamond-shaped Gare Thiers in central Nice. the building permit was granted in January of this year and the initial stages of construction are expected to begin in early 2018. The entire cost of the development is estimated at around 200 million euros - 20 million of which will go towards road and traffic works alone. 

Views from space côte d’azur shines bright

French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, who has been on the International space station since November last year, has tweeted a stunning photo of the Côte d’azur by night from space.

The 38-year-old astronaut, who is originally from Rouen, is currently on board the International space station for Expedition 50 and Expedition 51.

“Nice is nestled between the Mediterranean and the foothills of the maritime alps: even at night you can make out its geography! #Nissalabella,” said the astronaut. 

Delta resumes NYC flight full confidence in travel

The Delta daily flight from Nice to Newyork JFK resumes on 15th april. The flight provides full comfort with lie-flat seating and direct access to the aisle for all Delta One Customers. The aircraft is equipped with WiFi and on demand programmes are free of charge for all passengers.

Delta recently equipped 344 stations including Nice with RFID luggage tags, giving passengers full confidence in getting to destination with their luggage and being notified via the Delta app.

The Nice-JFK flight is the only existing flight to the Us out of the French provinces. For customers travelling beyond NyC on domestic flights, Delta has introduced free cabin meals on 12 top Us markets including Los angeles, san Francisco and seattle amongst others. The airline will be the only U.s. carrier to offer complimentary meals from nose to tail on select coast-to-coast routes. The Fly Delta app has released a new version, giving customers access to the industry's most innovative airport maps and the ability to keep up with flight details - even when a reliable connection isn't available. The ‘wayfinding’ tool features interactive maps for 20 major airports – including the airline's hubs – and guides customers with turn-by-turn walking directions to their gate, a restaurant or baggage claim. Delta is the only airline to give customers the ability to access airport maps on iPhone via their boarding pass.

Delta has again recently earned a spot among the world's leading brands after being named today as one of Fortune's Most admired Companies for the fourth consecutive year. among its competitors, Delta was named Fortune's Most admired airline, ranking No. 1 on the industry list for the sixth time in the past seven years. 

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Summer destinations airlines announce neW routes from the south of france

air France has announced new, direct connections from Nice to Tel aviv and athens as well as from Marseille to the Greek capital, stockholm and Ibiza.

From the Nice Côte d’azur aéroport, there will be up to four weekly flights to the Israeli city of Tel aviv on the Mediterranean coast between 22nd July and 9th september (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and saturday). There will also be direct flights to athens (Tuesday and Thursday). Marseille’s latest flight routes with air France include four connections a week to the Greek capital city of athens (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and saturday from 24th July to 3rd september); two weekly flights to stockholm (Tuesday and Thursday from 25th July to the end of august); and three week-day flights to the party isle of Ibiza (Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 24th July to 1st september) thanks to popular demand.

British airways has also launched two new flight paths from Nice to the UK. The seasonal routes from Nice to Manchester begin on 6th May while flights to London stansted start on 20th May. The saturday connections both depart the UK at 1.05pm and return at 5.10pm (Manchester) and 5pm (stansted). Ba currently serves Nice from Gatwick, Heathrow and London-City. 

flights to athens from nice and marseille

The hoTlisT

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The hoTlisT

Voices from the past from the Prehistoric to today to Win a coPy of michael nelson’s ‘the french riviera: a history’ courtesy of riviera insider and troubador Publishing ltd., Please head to the comPetitions section of the Website: rivieraPress.fr/insider.

Former General Manager of Reuters and a British expat living in the south of France, Michael Nelson was in the midst of launching his second book - americans and the Making of the Riviera - when he realised that despite the French Riviera’s global reputation, no one had ever written a history of the region in English.

“Lin Wolff, owner of the English Book Centre in Valbonne, told me that customers were frequently coming into her shop and asking: ‘Do you have a general history of the Riviera in English?’” explains Michael. she didn’t, simply because there wasn’t one on the market. Lin proposed to Michael that he write one. “so I did!” he says.

The book begins at the very start, in the prehistoric Terra amata and recounts tales of its discovery in the modern age. From there, it canvases the role the French Riviera played in the eras of the ancient Greeks and Romans through to its period as a barbarian stronghold. Read how Christianity takes root and the kingdoms of Provence are formed alongside the popes who then lived in the region. Monarchy is succeeded by revolutions - complete with anecdotes of guillotines and disorder - before we are confronted by the effects of WWI and WWII. Nelson sets the infamous scene of Jean Moulin - a leader of the French Resistance in WWII - invited the Germans to the opening of an art gallery in Nice that he was using as a front. The Golden age of the Riviera, the time between the 19th and 20th centuries when it flourished into a hotbed of international tourism and glamour, completes the historical aspect before Nelson turns his focus to the Côte d’azur as we know it today.

‘The French Riviera: a History’ is a fascinating read for anyone intrigued by its unique culture and heritage. The colourful maps and artworks transport you through the years of human activity and leave you yearning to get outside and explore it for yourself.

Nelson has also published two other books on the region: Queen Victoria and the Discovery of the Riviera (2001) and americans and the Making of the Riviera (2008). 

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80 years of Auron ski resorts stePs uP the luxury

This year marks the 80th birthday of the auron ski resort in the Mercantour national park. It’s a story that actually began a few years earlier, in 1934, when the visionary mayor of saint étienne de Tinée and a passionate skier, Maurice Rovery, decided to embark on the complex task of building a 7km road that would link the alpine town to the auron plateau.

Three years later, Rovery inaugurated the resort’s first gondola - the third ever in France.

The resort is now entering a construction boom with numerous highend real estate projects due for completion in the coming months. Le Monde des Neiges is to be a five star hotel of 50 suites and five luxury chalets between 60 and 210m2. Chef Bruno Oger will reign in its highly anticipated restaurant. another hospitality development is the Cœur d’auron, which will be built on the site of an old hotel and will house 80 rooms, 54 apartments, a spa and a swimming pool. Construction works are ongoing at a total of nine private chalets and another hotel of 336 beds in also underway. 

Toulon téléphérique neW gondola to summit of mont faron

The cable car to the top of 600-metre high Mont Faron in Toulon has received a mechanical and ecological upgrade.

Re-adapted to be better suit the needs of elderly and disabled passengers hoping to soak up the glorious views of the Var and the Mediterranean, the new cabins set off on their 10-minute maiden voyages earlier this year.

The funicular is unique in the Côte d’azur and was first launched back in 1959. The new red gondolas, which ‘preserve the historical soul of the earlier cabins’, are barely distinguishable from their predecessors on the outside, but inside they are far more comfortable and have also received safety updates. Their vast windows allow for almost totally uninterrupted panoramic views and with a tempered glass section of flooring, visitors can enjoy the sights of the greenery beneath them.

From the summit, hiking trials and walkways branch off in all directions.

There is also the Wild Cat Breeding Centre (Zoo-Fauverie de Toulon) for endangered species.

Prices for a return ticket are 7.50€ for adults and 5.50€ for children under 10. Joint passes for the téléphérique and the zoo cost for 15€ for adults and 10€ for children under 10. telepherique-faron.fr 

The hoTlisT

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vauban 21

By elsa CaRPeNteR

• A model port for a modern era • For more than 2,000 years, antibes’ Port vauban has captured the imaginations of the people who have passed through its marina walls. it is now set to enter a new chapter in its history under a new manager whose ambitions go far beyond superficial renovations. riviera insider meets with Director of Port vauban Franck Dosne to learn more about his vision for a living port ‘that works with and for the community’.

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hen Jean Leonetti, the mayor of antibes for more than two decades, announced in late 2015 that the management concession for Port Vauban was being put out to tender four years earlier than originally planned, the news attracted global interest. For Franck Dosne, the following 12 months passed in a whirl of paperwork and presentations as he and his team fought to distinguish themselves

W

Photo the future: the 1,642berth Port aims to become the mediterranean caPital of yachting

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from a fleet of other worthy contenders - namely Barcelona’s OneOcean Port Vell manager salamanca Group and a multinational outfit that operates luxury superyacht ports throughout the east Mediterranean and the Balearics. Ultimately it was the local French consortium artemis, led by Franck and the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie Nice Côte d’azur (CCI), that won the 25year contract and it has been at the helm of Port Vauban since the start of 2017.

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Chosen in honour of the Greek goddess for ports and pathways, the artemis group brings together the expertise of the CCI, the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations and the Caisse d’Epargne Côte d’azur (shares 51:39:10 respectively).

“The CCI has been managing ports in the French Riviera since 1896,” says Franck, “so the decision to sanction our management of the ports is an absolute honour. It’s also a mark of recognition for our work and our commitment to a model of sustainable, environmental and economic development that we consider to be the brightest future for the marina. artemis capitalises on the strengths and expertise of each member; together we can offer something very different [compared to the international competitors].”

Upwards of 135 million euros of investment has been allocated for the longterm project. an initial stage of upgrades to the port’s services and security systems - increased CCTV surveillance, drastically improved connectivity for crew and yacht owners, the opening of a concierge centre and new heliport facilities at the end of the Quai des Milliardaires - will be swiftly followed by a period of architectural renovations. a significant number of structural changes will be taking place: restoration work to the ramparts and the Bastion saint Jaume; the redevelopment of the Fort Carré to better assimilate it with the city; extensions to the current capitanerie to include a private yacht Club and restaurant; a landscaped Promenade des arts that will run the entire perimeter of the port and feature modern art installations along the route; considerable renovations to the run-down shipyard area; and the new Passerelle building, which will link the port to the city’s transport hub and provide a home for an educational facility, the Campus de yachting. “yachting is an industry that employs a multitude of professions and skill sets,” Franck continues. “While antibes is already home to several businesses offering specialist yachting training to crew, it is clear that not all training courses are covered by businesses in antibes and many crew continue to travel further afield to complete their training in locations such as

Palma de Mallorca and the Warsash superyacht academy in the UK. Crew go through many stages in their careers and much of that formal and professional training is unfortunately taking place outside of France.

Those starting out in the industry, wherever they are from in the world, will tell you that antibes is the place to head to when starting out in the industry, but we want to ensure that it remains the ultimate destination for all levels of expertise with a dedicated yachting campus.” antibes is Europe’s largest pleasure yachting port with 1,642 berths for vessels up to 170m. Franck explains that there will be some changes to the way in which berth rentals are handled and artemis appears to have turned firmly in favour of contracts of guaranteed use (or Garantie d’Usage). This system, which has been in place since the start of the year, guarantees a place within Port Vauban, but does not stipulate exactly where that berth will be, meaning that a captain may be forced to move the yacht to another berth or quay if the port requires the space. However, the group has reassured yacht and berth owners that contracts will be respected and tariffs will remain just - the CCI’s preexisting network of Riviera Ports, which includes Cannes, Golfe-Juan, Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer, has some of the lowest charges in the region.

Left photo the current caPitanerie Will be renovated to include a restaurant and Private yacht club Centre photo the Passerelle building and a Portion of the landscaPed Parking and Promenade des arts Right photo franck dosne, managing director of Port vauban

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While Port Vauban will see the largest injection of investment into its facilities and services, neighbouring Port Gallice in Juan-les-Pins is also part of the management concession (for 15 years against Port Vauban’s 25-year lease). as such, the 486-berth port will experience an image overhaul to position it as an innovation hub and pioneer in terms of environmental policy and photovoltaic panelling, living roofs and the filtration and reuse of rainwater are just some of the methods artemis will employ to rebuild Port Gallice as an ‘energy neutral’ marina. a new FaB LaB laboratory for maritime and environmental innovation will also be constructed on the site.

This clean and green approach is something that ties both ports together. Open spaces are to be abundant and artemis is hoping to eliminate the presence of parked cars within the ports’ boundaries. The esplanade in front of the current capitainerie in Port Vauban will lose all of its parking - a move that has been criticised by locals and crew - and much of the other facilities will be reduced and replaced with landscaped parking. a subterranean carpark for 600 cars is to be built in antibes, but this won’t completely cover the spaces lost above ground.

Both ports will gain event and conference space, hinting at the group’s plan to revive antibes’ yachting

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Our goal is to elevate Port Vauban to a status it once held without repute and its rightful position as the Mediterranean capital of yachting festival although there won’t be an industry-specific event this spring. Providing high-end, multi-use facilities is key to Franck and he hopes to encourage interaction and exchange between local businesses as well as the international companies based out of sophia antipolis.

“Our goal is to elevate Port Vauban to a status it once held without repute and its rightful position as the Mediterranean capital of yachting,” he explains. “We want to build a living port that works for and with the local community, and to do so, we need to maximise the economic potential of the two ports. In recent years, Port Vauban has only brought in 500,000 euros for the city of antibes annually, but that figure will become 15 million euros (and 2.2 million euros for Port Gallice).”

Early in the project planning process, artemis reached out to architect Philippe Prost, who is a specialist in the works of sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban (later Marquis de Vauban and France’s leading military engineer in the 17th and early 18th centuries who oversaw the construction of fortifications in antibes).

Past work by the architect includes the renovations to the Belle-Île-en-Mer citadel (another example of Vauban) and the L’anneau de la Mémoire (Ring of Remembrance WWI memorial in northern France).

Prost’s passion for the Port Vauban project is undeniable; during a press conference in early 2017, his fellow panel described the architect’s upcoming speech as a poem.

“The geography of a place is its fate,” Prost told the press, “and Vauban’s strength lay in working with location. Before I took on this project, I walked the entire port on foot and then I toured it inside and out by boat. It’s an exceptional site that is striking both by land and by sea. My conceptualisation is not to fight for prominence with the existing architecture, but to compliment it and utilise its panoramic character. We can’t think solely of the port, we must consider the city too and reestablish a link between the two.” 

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garDens

garDens of The cĂ´Te D'azur This April, the region will celebrate the very ďŹ rst Festival des Jardins

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Gardens are part of the unique fabric of the Côte d'azur. in an interview with renowned designer Jean Mus, riviera insider explores the changing landscape of gardening over the last few decades.

By aIla stöCKMaNN & elsa CaRPeNteR

s a source of happiness amid hectic, everyday life, gardens continue to play a very important role in our lives. Jean Mus, the most famous active gardener of the Côte d’azur, gets his hands dirty whenever a new public building or a luxury hotel summons him to supplement the urban with the green. For many years now, Mus has also worked with countless British and other northern European clients who call on him to create the gardens of their dreams in the south of France.

The Côte d’azur, as we know it today, simply couldn’t have existed without its gardens. In the 19th century, it was the lush and exotic vegetation that attracted the wealthy, foreign tourists to this strip of land between coast and mountains. Even in winter, it bloomed with rich green tones and colourful floral blossoms.

Before long, English gardeners were settling here, setting up great parks and estates that played to the advantage of the region’s natural conditions. shrubs and trees from across the world were introduced and found a generous, nourishing home in the Riviera’s climate. The plant life here has lost none of its appeal; nearly one million visitors tour the public and private gardens of the alpes-Maritimes each year.

In 2017, the tourism potential of these gardens is to be exercised more than ever before with the very first edition of the Festival des Jardins. Throughout the month of april, just as the spring season is getting into full swing, events will be taking place throughout the region. The highlight of the festival: the creation of ten show gardens in the five cities on the Côte d’azur.

This is where Mus comes back into the picture. as the president of the newly created festival, Jean and his jury of internationally acclaimed garden architects and landscape professionals will select ten young gardeners. These winners will be demonstrating their flair and creativity from 25th March in the gardens of the Villa Fragonard (Grasse), Villa Rothschild (Cannes), Jardin Biovès (Menton), Pinède Gould (antibes Juan-lesPins) and Jardin albert Ier (Nice).

“What constitutes the perfect garden?” Riviera Insider asks the man who has designed 1,500 gardens around the world.

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“I NEVER DO THE saME THING TWICE” Jean Mus

Far left photo the President of the jury for the neW festival, jean mus, is Pictured With stePhanie knoblich © D.R. Photos the Work of the renoWned designer © AS

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“One that inspires emotion,” says the energetic gentleman, “one that arouses all five senses.” He speaks of the sounds of a breeze rustling through bamboo or a water feature drowning out the noise of a street. “all of this has an effect on the psyche.”

Everything must come together: the location, the soil, the preferences of the clients, the ideas of the landscape architect… “It’s almost a kind of love story.” Together with his clients, Mus selects the greenery that will feature in the garden, but he is merely the director following the rules of the plants. “Mother Nature is the boss, she always has the last word. There is no cheating her.”

From Karl Lagerfeld’s private villa and the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel in Monaco to the elegant Domaine de Terre Blanche in the Var, Mus’ expertise is indispensable to the glamourous addresses of the south of France. In Cabris in the hills above Grasse, he employs 12 fulltime landscape gardeners. six languages are spoken among them; French Mus is a master of English and, if need be, German.

His two icons are Englishman Russell Page and German-born Ferdinand Bach, who have both left their mark on the Côte d’azur in the last century. Inspiration yes, copying no. Mus is original: “I never do the same thing twice.” For him, it is today that counts, yesterday is passé.

He observes that cities are attaching more importance to gardens in the modern day, even shopping centres note their value.

This trend has now been followed by the Department of the alpes-Maritimes, which wants to direct the attention of its visitors to the parks and green spaces throughout april. From classified gardens - jardins remarquables - to parks, monasteries, courtyards and gardens of museums, oasis in hotels and private spaces, all are a wonder and can be appreciated by all, not just botanical experts.

For this edition of Riviera Insider, we have toured some of the most prestigious gardens in the south of France and in Liguria. you’ll discover stately homes here in France, while over the border, we will transport you to the famous Giardini Hanbury and the many estates inspired by the masterful English gardener Thomas Hanbury.

Countless other gardens and parks await you this spring, head outdoors and wonder (and wander!) in their splendour… 

Public garDens 80 remarkable public gardens and 17 parks await you Antibes villa Thuret, Parc explora, villa eilenroc, Fort Carré Beaulieu villa Kérylos Beausoleil The Winter Garden of riviera Palace Biot Fernand Léger Museum, Bonsai arboretum Cagnes-sur-Mer Domaine renoir, Marro Property Cannes villa Domergue, villa rothschild, Lérins islands Cap d’Ail Sacha Guitry, Château des Terrasses, Douaniers Châteauneuf-de-Grasse villa La Bouscarella Coursegoules vallon du Brec Eze exotic Garden Gattières Fleurs de Poterie Gourdon Château gardens, La Source Parfumé Grasse Gardens of the international Museum of Perfume, gardens of the

Musée Fragonard, villa Noailles, Domaine de Manon, villa Fort France, villa La Mouissone, Mas des Pivoines, Domaine Saint-Jacques du Couloubrier, Domaine de la royrie La Gaude villa de l’argelière Mandelieu-La Napoule Château de la Napoule Menton villa Maria Séréna, Serre de la Madone, Fontana rosa, Botanical Gardens of val rahmeh, Palais de Carnolès, Biovès, Clos du Peyronnet, Colombières, La Citronneraie Monaco exotic garden, Japanese garden, La roseraie, Parc de Fontvieille, Jardin de la Petite afrique, SaintMartin

Jardin du vinaigrier, Parc de la Clua - Dr. Jean Guillaud, Parc du Castel des deux rois, Observatory of Nice, Jardin du Monastère, Jardin des arènes de Cimiez, villa arson, Palais Masséna, Chagall Museum, MaMaC, Matisse Museum, il Paradisio Peymeinade au pays d’audrey Roure arboretum Marcel Kroenlein Sainte-Agnès Medieval garden Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat villa ephrussi de rothschild Saint-Paul-de-Vence Fondation Maeght Saorge Monastery gardens

Mouans-Sartoux Château de MouansSartoux, Gardens of the international Museum of Perfume

Tourrettes-sur-Loup Bastide aux violettes, Florian’s Citrus Gardens

Mougins etang de Fontmerle

Vallauris-Golfe-Juan Le Nérolium

Nice Promenade du Paillon, Jardin albert ier, Parc vigier, Parc Chambrun, Mont Boron, Colline du Château, Parc Phoenix, Parc d’estienne d’Orves,

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sTaTelY homes & chaTeaux What is more quintessentially english than a walk through a stately home and its garden? While there might not be any cream tea and scones at the end of these outdoor strolls, riviera insider can promise that you’ll spend a beautiful afternoon exploring the seasonal blooms and heritage of these four remarkable gardens.

By elsa CaRPeNteR

north of Versailles. spread around these manicured lawns are the spanish, Florentine, Japanese, Provençal, rose, exotic, rocky and sèvres gardens. Heady scents of orange blossom, datura, jasmine and honeysuckle swirl in the spanish realm while the cypresslined Florentine garden provides a home to a wonder of artistic works - arches, fountains, bas-reliefs - from the Middle ages to the Renaissance. Many parts of Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild have found their way into this special place, including a number of the rose varieties that made up her signature perfume and grow around a hexagonal temple inhabited by an allegorical divinity ‘representing spring’.

Open everyday from 10am to 6pm audio guides and app available in English entrance 14€

villa ePhrussi De roThschilD Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat With nine glorious gardens, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild offers an abundance of marvel and natural beauty. The complete works are the result of five years of toil in the early 20th century by artists and designers such as Harold Peto, the plans of whom can be explored in the Villa Museum. The French gardens dominate the setting and unravel from the steps of the villa to the edges of the ‘water shawl’ - a gentle of cascade of water sloped at an exact angle to appear white in the sunlight - and the Temple of Love, which is inspired by the Grand Trianon château to the

villa roThschilD Cannes If luscious green lawns are what makes a garden for you, Cannes’ answer to the Rothschild dynasty should be at the top of your list. While Bettina Rothschild’s neoclassical villa in the west of Cannes is the little sister of distant cousin Béatrice Ephrussi’s in saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in terms of grandeur and majesty, at the peak of its time in the late 19th century, it was an a-list destination for the rich and famous of the era. It fell into disrepair in the 1940s and was taken over by the city, which brought splendour back to its gardens and installed a public library within its walls. an olfactory, therapeutic garden has also been built and is dedicated to sufferers of alzheimer’s.

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Open Tuesday to saturday from 9.30am to 6pm (extended hours until 7pm on Friday) Free entrance

villa kerYlos Beaulieu-sur-Mer Built against the dramatic backdrop of the cliffs of Eze, the pristine white Villa Kérylos is the culmination of two men fascinated with the ancient Greek civilisation: owner Théodore Reinach - an archaeologist, politician, art critic and mathematician - and architect Emmanuel Pontremoli. The stunning estate, perched above the sea, is a homage to a on property that belonged to a ship builder from the island of Delos.

Its gardens are a voyage through Mediterranean culture with olive trees, grape vines, pomegranate trees, cypress trees, palm trees and flora and fauna native to the aegean coast such as iris, myrtle and oleander. Tours of the property, which was classed as a historical monument in 1967, are also possible.

Open everyday until the end of april from 10am to 5pm (extended hours during the summer season) audio guides available in English entrance 11.50€

maria séréna Menton a little mystery surrounds this villa and its gardens. Built in 1882 for the Menton family of Foucher de Careï, relatives of the suez Canal innovator Ferdinand de Lesseps, it is believed that the latter’s friends Charles Garnier is responsible for its architecture and landscape.

The Maria séréna’s gardens are the warmest in France, with temperatures never falling below 5°C thanks to Menton’s unique microclimate. This has allowed many plants, which would usually be grown greenhouses, to flourish outside in the warm air such as France’s only outdoor Canary Islands Dragon Tree and exquisite silk-floss trees whose hibiscus-like flowers and exotic foliage originate in south america. a small canal rich in aquatic plant life twists through the hectare of grounds, providing nourishment to the countless palms from around the world that dot this space.

Open Monday to saturday from 8.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pm Guided tours are available in English every Wednesday entrance 6€

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The english garDen TraDiTions of liguria

UNESCO World Heritage Site classification on the horizon for the Hanbury Gardens By susaNNe altweGeR-MINet

The historic settlement of the riviera by the english during the 19th century is still very much present in the charming gardens along its coast. Two gardens in particular are closely connected with the english merchant family of Hanbury, who were also passionate gardeners: La Mortola near ventimiglia, better known under the name Giardini Botanici Hanbury, and the villa della Pergola in alassio.

he most famous example of the English gardening traditions of Liguria are the Hanbury Gardens, which are on the waiting list for UNEsCO World Heritage site classification. The palazzo itself was the former home of the Marchesi Orengo and offers a breathtaking, panoramic view of the hillside estate, its forest of plants and the Mediterranean. The park is a bucolic treasure trove for lovers of botany and garden design, and it is all in thanks to the young Thomas Hanbury who acquired the steep, coastal plot in 1867.

Hanbury had two goals: to create a beautiful park and

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Photo the Palazzo in the hanbury gardens © Susanne Altweger-Minet

garden, and to establish a harmony of native and exotic plants through acclimatisation and botanical experiments. Today, the University of Genoa has catalogued some 6,000 different plant life species in the gardens.

It was important to Thomas to protect the elevated landscape of the place and as he transformed the estate into botanical gardens, the avid gardener retained the originality of the sharply inclining slope. Pergolas are connected by serpentine paths, winding stairs and hidden ramps, which all meet in the centre. Thomas also took great care to preserve fragments of the ancient Roman Via Giulia augusta, which run through the domain. solid and reliable footwear is a must and for those wanting to follow the signposts down towards the sea, good health is also recommended. But however much the trek may leave you feeling breathless, it will be nothing compared to the beauty of the views. One is well compensated by a voyage through a paradisiacal world of plants, sculptures, amphorae and wells.

When picking a time of year to visit, spring and autumn are ideal. Parking is difficult during the summer with limited spaces on the nearby squares and streets. There is a small café on-site, but there is room for improvement and it is shabbily furnished when compared to lovely décor of the gardens outside.

Few are aware that the Villa della Pergola in alassio also belonged to the Hanbury family from 1922. The house and terrace were built back in 1880 by another British family (the scottish McMurdos), but the Hanburys brought their signature green thumb to its gardens.

Today, the park is characterised by a romantic pergola encircled with roses and bougainvillea; pine, olive, almond, Lebanon cedar and eucalyptus trees; gigantic bird of paradise flowers and cacti. The artistry of the park has, in the past, attracted masters of film. Hitchcock shot scenes for his directorial debut - The Pleasure Garden - here in 1925 and Oscar-winning Guy Green followed in 1957 with The snorkel starring Peter van Eyck.

Outside of their family properties, the Hanburys extended their influence to a number of other great gardens in Liguria such as the Villa Boccanegra and the Giardino Moreno, of which just a portion has survived under the popular name of the Monet gardens.

The charming Boccanegra, whose roots date back to the middle of the 16th century, can be found almost directly across the bay from the Hanbury Botanical Gardens. at the beginning of the 20th century, the estate was bought by vivacious English heiress Ellen Willmott - a lover of roses and keen botanist - after she visited La Mortola. During restorations to the garden in 1983, plants from all over the world were transported to the Villa Boccanegra and continue to thrive today on terraces of varied elevations. Over time, the palazzo has become enveloped by climbing plants and vines. sadly not all of the Moreno Gardens of Bordighera exist today, but on Via Domenico Tumiati, a small section lives on. In 1884, painter Claude Monet described the gardens as ‘incredibly beautiful ‘and ‘pure magic’. He must have been thoroughly taken; the gardens inspired three individual paintings. 

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les floralies Roses at Villa Eilenroc By saRaH HYDe

he gates of Villa Eilenroc will swing open as part of Les Floralies, a wonderful rose festival dedicated to the agricultural heritage of Cap d’antibes, on 20th May. In the years before it became a millionnaires’ playground, the Cap d’antibes’ predominant crop was roses. The sandy, well-drained soil was the ideal consistency for rose cultivation. sadly, all but one of the commercial rose cultivators have left the area today.

The festival is an opportunity to celebrate antibes’ floral history, connect with the past and, best of all, see and smell over 1,000 beautiful flowers. What makes this event so special is that the garden at Eilenroc is home to a unique and important collection of roses. Many of the roses in the garden are Meilland and the Meilland family, who still live on the peninsular, are one of the largest domestic rose producers in France. The rise of the house of Meilland and the many roses they have created over the years, which you can discover through the event, is interesting enough to be its own exhibition.

The GEVEs (Groupe d'Etude et de Contrôle des Variétés et des semences) collection of roses is a real treat for connoisseurs. In layman terms, it was the national collection for study from 1960 to 1990

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Photos the gardens of villa eilenroc are home to over 1,000 roses

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and although its long form may seem slightly technical, it was essentially a working rose garden for the whole of France. When a new hybrid was created, it was necessary to keep an original seed from the flower as a point of reference in case of mutation or change in the future.

Many of roses found in this collection were created by the Meilland family such as the Le Prince Jardinier, Papa Meilland, Madame Meilland, Line Renaud, Monica Bellucci, Philippe Noiret, Pierre de Ronsard, Balzac, and Princesse de Monaco. They had a particular interest in protecting this precious group off flowers after 1990, when the GEVEs outfit moved to Holland.

The family carefully sheltered the plants, which represent many lifetimes of work, until they could be moved safely into the villa’s gardens.

The history of the villa is no less interesting. Villa Eilenroc is one of the great properties of the south of France and one of the few to be in public hands.

With an elegant carriage drive, it is from a time before the motor car, when the Riviera was a winter holiday resort for the aristocrats and highest echelons of society. In the mid 1800s, the retired governor of the Dutch East Indies, Hugh Hope Loudon bought a vast parcel of land on the Cap. On this superb plot of 11 hectares, the villa was built in 1867 according to plans

by Charles Garnier, the architect behind the great opera houses of Paris and Monaco. The last owner of the house was the glamourous, beautiful and seriously wealthy american aviatrix Helene Beaumont, who left the estate and its grounds to the city of antibes after her death. several films have been made here including Magic in The Moonlight by Woody allen most recently in 2014.

The Villa Eilenroc is open to the public every Wednesday from 2pm to 5pm as well as on the first and third saturdays of the month (same hours).

Entrance is 2€, although free until 31st March. 

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‘Le jardinage est écrit sur la terre’ is Jean-Luc Danneyrolles’ battle cry. For 32 years, this anarchist poet-gardener has been carefully tending the same small piece of earth in vaucluse, nurturing and guarding the rare strains of ancient and rare vegetables to which he has devoted his life.

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“each seeD is a Poem” Growing the rare and the unusual By saRaH HYDe

hen I asked him what tomatoes he has, Jean-Luc Danneyrolles’ reply comes in a rich French timbre, his vocal cords seasoned with years of country living, red wine and tobacco. He has a kaleidoscope of colours in his garden in La Molière, saignon (in the Luberon national park), and that does not include the zebra striped or the remarkable cream sausageshaped ones. Not only does this potager curieux have a rainbow of tomatoes, he also has them for every possible use: salads, drying, sauces… He has the classic cœur de bœuf, tiny tomates and even

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wild ones - something I have never seen. Within his garden, Jean-Luc has a very fine collection of beautiful beans with over 30 varieties, many edible flowers, an impressive range of multi-coloured and multi-flavoured salad leaves, and a broad collection of medicinal herbs. all together he has over 300 species. For anyone who wants to try growing some interesting edibles to impress the neighbours or amuse children, his catalogue is a must-see.

For Jean-Luc, gardening is not just something he does, it’s a passion and a way of life. He is a writer and artist, and can definitely be described as a passionate believer. as he says, ‘each seed is a

“WE MUsT GaRDEN WITHOUT CHEMICaLs aND IN HaRMONy WITH MOTHER NaTURE.”

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poem’ and he desperately cares about the state of the earth. sharing this passion with others is very much a part of what he does: “I am very political, this is a way of life. I am not running a garden centre here.”

When I flatter him and say he had real foresight to build up this invaluable collection of heritage vegetables - especially as many are creating new trends in gastronomy - he does not like to be described as ahead of the curve. He is extraordinarily modest and Jean-Luc is clear that he does not think it was really his idea. “I am not a precursor. There were people in this role before me, protecting and collecting rare species.”

Organic gardening and forming collections is nothing new, it follows human tradition and, despite his modesty, Jean-Luc happens to have a particularly exciting collection. He has built his catalogue slowly and carefully, searching all over the world for peculiar examples. Jean-Luc is also in touch with a huge global network to bring new seeds into the collection and expand the range of his holding. “I found the zucchini in america,” he says. “I have contacts all over the world.”

His particular garden does not produce vegetables for sale, but is more of a seed farm and he sells the seeds all over the globe. Jean-Luc has discovered a love of sharing in his passion and enjoys making a ‘contribution to biodiversity’. His message is very clear: “We must garden without chemicals and in harmony with Mother Nature.” such is his belief that last year, he did something somewhat old fashioned and actually gave his garden a rest for a year.

Jean-Luc trained to be a gardener in his home town of Lyon where there was a grand tradition of vegetable growing. During this time, he became very aware of the importance of raising vegetables without using artificial chemicals and working towards permaculture. as a passionate activist, he sees his work as his vocation and not only does he write extensively about raising vegetables, he also teaches market gardeners how to grow without chemicals from his garden in saignon. This is the serious side to his work.

Having worked in this garden for the last three decades, he has been able to observe the change directly. He has very strong views on global warming and he describes the earth as a ‘sick old lady’. We discuss this at length and as he explains what he has seen happening, Jean-Luc is in such despair that he pours himself another glass of wine. sadly, his prognosis is that all is not good. “It’s really happening,” he says, “Food production is going to be in crisis. Permaculture really is the best solution.”

I ask him if there is any hope and try and lif him out of this negative moment, he smiles, gives me a Gallic shrug and states, with the faith of one who passionately believes, “Of course, I am enchanted with the earth. Let’s hope so.”   lepotagerduncurieux.org

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The markeTPlace Cannes: a partnership between a great city and Reed MIDEM By elsa CaRPeNteR MiPiM, MiPTv, MiDeM and more: even if you’re not involved in the industries of real estate and entertainment, you will almost certainly have heard of one of reed MiDeM’s international events that take place at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes each year. in an interview with riviera insider, President and CeO Paul Zilk reveals the organisation’s enduring passion for Cannes and global business.

Mr. Zilk, when Bernard Chevry created MIPTV in 1963 and the MIDEM Organisation in 1965, the concept was entertainment. Why the expansion into real estate - a very different industry - with MIPIM in 1990?

When entrepreneur Bernard Chevry founded the MIDEM Organisation more than five decades ago, he correctly anticipated the debut and growth of crossborder rights trading of television programmes and then music publishing. International air travel was increasing rapidly in the 1960s and 1970s, which enabled businesspeople around the world to meet together in face-to-face marketplaces.

The teams working at the MIDEM Organisation (which became Reed MIDEM in 1989) were innovative and they developed and launched various television and music events in other countries, and explored other industries including real estate.

In the late 1980s, the commercial real estate sector offered enormous promise. Increasing globalisation

Photo reed midem has been holding its events in cannes since 1965

Right photo President and ceo of reed midem Paul zilk

meant that companies and investment began to expand beyond their national borders. International property investment grew spectacularly and so did the need for international gatherings where real estate executives could build relationships and transact business.

Reed MIDEM launched MIPIM - its first real estate marketplace - in 1990. MIPIM is the leading international real estate event in the world and each year it welcomes many thousands of investors seeking opportunities, cities and regions attracting investment, and major real estate companies who are promoting their projects.

In the case of television, music and real estate, Reed MIDEM’s business model is identical.

Of all the Reed MIDEM activities, which are the most successful?

Reed MIDEM events are recognised as market leaders in their sectors. For television, MIPTV and MIPCOM attract a combined total of some 25,000 executives from over 100 countries and they are clearly the most important international television and digital content events in the world. MIDEM has reflected the challenges facing the music industry in recent years, but it remains the leading international business and networking event for the music ecosystem.

In real estate, our MIPIM and MaPIC brands are also leaders. Our largest event is MIPIM, which attracts around 24,000 delegates from 90 countries to its annual edition in Cannes. We have extended the MIPIM brand to events in Hong Kong (since 2006), the UK (since 2014) and Japan (since 2015). MaPIC is the most prestigious retail real estate event and takes place yearly in Cannes, but we have also introduced events in Italy, China, Russia and India.

We judge the success of our events by the business benefits and satisfaction they bring to our clients, and the leading positions of our brands are the result of our strong focus on serving the needs of our international clientele.

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Is Cannes still a competitive location for these events?

Reed MIDEM has been holding its events in Cannes since the second edition of MIPTV in 1965 and the city is a major factor in the growth and success of our events there. This is a partnership between a great city and Reed MIDEM. Cannes is indeed competitive as a host for international events plus it has a unique attraction for our clients. Through the years, the mayors and leaders of Cannes have worked hand-in-hand with our company to develop services and to make Cannes a premium destination for international business people. advantages include a travel infrastructure with international air, rail and road links; the commitment of the mayor’s office and the sEMEC (which runs the Palais) to continually upgrade the Palais des Festivals; and the strong relationship and constant interaction we have with our many partners in Cannes. and let’s not forget the natural beauty and charm of Cannes and its unique Croisette, with the sun, beaches, cuisine, wines and glamourous history!

Our company produces premium events for highlevel executives from around the world who deserve and appreciate a premium venue such as Cannes.

There were plans with the Mayor of Cannes David Lisnard to launch a new festival in 2018 for TV series. Now it seems that the Minister of Culture Fleur Pellerin prefers Lille as a location.

Are you ready to fight to keep film in Cannes?

Mayor of Cannes David Lisnard has announced a project to hold an international television drama series festival in Cannes in april 2018 alongside our MIPTV television industry marketplace. This makes perfect sense because the world-renowned image and prestige of Cannes and the long-established leadership of MIPTV offer an ideal combination of image, experience and strong capabilities. We totally support this project, which is also backed by Canal+.

Beyond the Cannes festival, we have many other projects. In February 2017, we launched our new esport BaR event that brings together leaders in the rapidly expanding e-sports ecosystem. In October, we will organise the inaugural MIPIM Proptech summit in New york for tech companies in real estate. We are very ambitious in our aim to expand our strong brands in new geographies and segments of the industry sectors we serve.

Before becoming President of Reed MIDEM in 2003, you worked at the Nestlé global headquarters in the USA and Switzerland. Is Reed MIDEM a similarly international organisation?

Reed MIDEM is a very international organisation.

Obviously we are not as large as Nestlé, but our team is very multicultural and, like Nestlé, our business is global in scope. Collectively we represent 24

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nationalities and speak 18 languages. For the past 15 years we have worked hard to build a team with the skills, spirit and attitude needed to effectively serve a clientele that is incredibly large and diverse. Our headquarters is in Paris, but we also have offices in the Usa, the UK and Hong Kong, and we work with dozens of representatives and colleagues that help us do business in many more countries.

Upcoming events MIPIM real estate 14th to 17th March

MIPtV Tv & digital content 3rd to 6th april

MIDeM Music 6th to 9th May

MIPCOM entertainment content 16th to 19th October

MaPIC retail real estate 15th to 17th November

The Reed MIDEM ethos is ‘supporting the international business community’ as well as diversity, sustainability and social responsibility.

As an American citizen with international experience, are you worried in these times about the future and the economic success of Reed MIDEM? I’m optimistic about our future. In times of uncertainty, challenge and great change, it is even more important for business leaders of different nationalities, cultures and business systems to come together. year after year, we see the relationships, learning and healthy exchange that flourish among our customers during our events, and I am convinced that this is positive for international business as well as for shared human and social values.

Of course there are many and unique challenges in our world today, but we will continue to focus on providing our international clients with the opportunities and means to develop their business.

Our core industries - real estate and television - are strong and music is returning to growth. There are tremendous possibilities for Reed MIDEM to help our clients understand and capitalise upon new technology, digital innovation, growing geographies and new market segments. I expect our customers and Reed MIDEM to be successful in the years ahead. 

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Décor

revoluTionarY Techniques From creative renovations in a 13th century hotel to innovative new technologies in swimming pool construction, Riviera Insider indulges in décor.

Décor

New technology allows for a harder-wearing and more cost-effective build established swimming pool designer Pierre alessandra, who has been producing custom and bespoke creations for clients across the French riviera for many years, has introduced a revolutionary new technique. he Mougins-based designer is turning away from the traditional, reinforced concrete method of swimming pool construction in favour of a faster, more flexible and more durable solution. The honeycomb alvéover technology uses specially engineered polypropylene panels - a material developed over 40 years ago and used, among other things, in aircraft construction and solar panels. “alvéover is four times more sturdy than concrete,” Pierre explains, “and at the same time, it is significantly lighter than any materials that would otherwise be used to build swimming pools.”

The material is resistant to frost and is flexible enough to adapt to ground movements without suffering the damage that would occur in a standard concrete build.

Once in place, the surface is coated with the currently popular granite spray, which is available in many different colours. Due to their lightweight properties, the Pierre alessandra honeycomb pools can be installed in difficult-to-access terrains and can take every imaginable form, all in record time. 

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Décor

PanTone Colour of the Year 2017

salons & exhibiTions Pools & garDens in marseille The themes of swimming pools, garden furniture and decorations, and home renovations are explored at the salon Piscine, Jardin & Rénovation in Marseille. approximately 150 exhibitors and 15,000 visitors are expected at the 13th edition of the show, which runs from 3rd to 6th March at the Parc Chanot. admission is free. salonpiscineetjardin.com

univers JarDin & habiTaT sainte-Maxime is hosting the Univers Jardin & Habitat event from 21st to 23rd april. Over 80 exhibitors have been selected according to their sustainable development and environmental stance for the show, which champions responsible construction and development.

Discover the spring and summer trends of garden décor as well as the latest tools, equipments and accessories for your garden. There are plenty of workshops planned for the three-day events so don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! univers-jardin.com

Diffazur rewarDeD Gold for the local designer he association for swimming Pool Professionals (Fédération des Professionnels de la Piscine), which organises an annual competition for France’s most beautiful swimming pools, has awarded French Riviera-based swimming pool designer Diffazur with four gold and one silver medal. among the company’s prize winning pools are two free-form pools (1st and 2nd place), an angular spa pool and a stunning rectangular pool designed to be enjoyed by night. 

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escribed as a ‘life-affirming’ shade, Pantone has selected Greenery (15-0343) as its Colour of the year.

“Greenery bursts forth in 2017 to provide us with the reassurance we yearn for amid a tumultuous social and political environment,” says Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute Leatrice Eiseman. “satisfying our growing desire to rejuvenate and revitalise, Greenery symbolises the reconnection we seek with nature, one another and a larger purpose.”

The refreshing and revitalising yellow-green tone is versatile and trans-seasonal, allowing for many colour combinations in your home and outdoors. 

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monTParnasse of Provence Château Le Cagnard in Haut-deCagnes

With frescos of prancing elephants and a mezzanine of artworks, plenty has changed in the Salle de Garde since the days when knights dined within these walls. From the 13th century to the modern day, perhaps this is the first time a woman has been in charge at Château Le Cagnard.

By elsa CaRPeNteR

Main photo a hilltoP vieW of mediterranean from the hotel’s and its rooms Left photo Privacy and tranQuility on a château le cagnard terrace Top right photo sWedish business Woman frida ivarsson Right photo the romantic renoir suite

rida Ivarsson is a warm and vivacious personality from the moment we meet in the former dining room of chevaliers. This 35year-old swedish business woman took on the hotel and restaurant in 2011 then spent an entire year renovating the property, restoring the existing architecture and modernising for comfort (including flying in beds from sweden, which her guests compliment frequently). Today’s Château Le Cagnard is a homage to the artists who once called Haut-de-Cagnes - the ‘Montparnasse of Provence’ home.

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frida, how did you come to be the manager of château le cagnard? after I finished school at 19, I decided to take a year abroad so I could figure out what I wanted to do as a career. I got in my car, came down to Nice and worked in the Radisson hotel for 18 months. By that time, my father with his now-wife were coming to the area.

They rented a flat then bought a house and my father met the Barel family, who owned Château Le Cagnard at the time. I was studying for an International Business degree with a focus on marketing in Cheltenham in the UK when my father called and said, “I’ve got a project for you…” I managed all the renovations and carried on living in the south of France until it was time to move back to the UK to be with my husband and daughter. I get down here every six weeks now and hopefully it’ll be more in summer.

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Décor

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There are a lot of ‘flashy’ hotels in the French Riviera and I wanted to parr it back, to create something different. so many artists have spent time here and I’ve named each of the 28 rooms for an artist who painted Cagnes-sur-Mer. There’s a print of the painting in the bedroom as well as personal touches such as a book, an ornament, a special piece of antique furniture… Guests appreciate the connection to the artist. Renoir actually sat on the terrace of the suite named for him because it used to be part of a restaurant! There’s so much charm and authenticity about Château Le Cagnard. I felt it when I first came inside. something about this place encourages creativity to grow.

what type of clientele do you attract and how would you describe the château le cagnard experience to a first-time visitor?

The renovation works you’ve achieved have made this a beautiful hotel that’s well-worthy of its boutique status. what was your main goal in its décor?

This place has been a hotel for almost a hundred years, but it dates back to the 13th century. Part of it is ‘old city wall’! The renovations were a good learning curve.

We have very international guests: the British, North americans, swedes, the French and also the Japanese, who love our room dedicated to Fujita. We have people who come back year after year and others who are just discovering us. We are now hosting weddings; I actually got married here to my Indian-English husband and it made a lovely Indian wedding setting!

Our restaurant and chef stéphane Laurin are excellent and people are starting to talk about us. I want it to grow like that, naturally and on recommendation. To me, it’s not about selling a night’s stay in a hotel, it’s about the experience our guests have. 

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Décor

brought King of Cotton to the UK, France and other parts of Europe in 1995.

The majority of your boutiques are in the UK. Why did you decide to open in the south of France?

The boutique in Nice - and the French website opened in November 2014. We chose Nice because we had existing customers in the French Riviera in the hospitality industry along with many yachting customers based in Monaco, antibes and Cannes. There will be a new boutique opening in Paris in 2017!

From a small shop in northern italy over 100 years ago to a crosscontinent brand, King of Cotton has come a long way since its grass roots to become a high-end provider of luxury linens and cotton products. riviera insider interviews CeO Hector Gauld.

By elsa CaRPeNteR

The king of coTTon

How would you describe King of Cotton design and how influenced are you by interior design trends?

King of Cotton concentrates on the quality of the textile with minimal styling, but also offers a bespoke service and can create any design to order.

Interior designers that work with King of Cotton have told us that the design trends for this year have included linear and geometric patterns in natural colours reflecting earth, sea and sky, with the use of sky and ocean blues and earth colours such as sand, stone and slate. Our designs are made to be classic, subtle and non-intrusive with the use of grey, beige, stone and ivory, although we can utilise any colour the customer requires.

Fine linens on land and at sea

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rom Re di Cotone to King of Cotton, what is the story behind your brand?

The company was founded in Gallarate, Italy, in 1880. Through a long line of family connections, I

What should a customer be looking for in a fine quality cotton? a good thread count and a fine yarn - preferably long staple such as Egyptian or sea Island - are what a customer should look for in fine cotton bed linen with a count of 400 threads per square inch or more. King of Cotton offer more options and thread counts than any other European supplier, and can advise the customer according to their specific needs. Towelling should be at least 500gsm and originate in Portugal, Egypt or Turkey, which are recognised as the finest producers. 

LUXURY ACCESSIBLE TO ALL !

A SHOWROOM IN MOUGINS

SWIMMING POOL DESIGNER RENOVATIONS SERVICING 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

PIERRE ALESSANDRA 616 AVENUE SAINT MARTIN | 06250 MOUGINS

TEL : 04 92 28 31 20 e-mail : pierre@paconcept.fr

www.piscinesalessandra.com

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PoliTics

france’s nexT PresiDenT Tension in france The demise of the old system

Not since Charles de Gaulle has an incumbent president in France waived his fight for re-election.

Never before have all the favourites for the highest office in the state failed to make the final cut.

By PeteR BausCH

lmost two months before the first round of the French presidential election and the competition for office remains wide open. With the first round scheduled for 23rd april, the only solid prediction coming from the polls is that the Front National’s Marine Le Pen will make it through, but suffer a defeat in the second round on 7th May. Her contender could be Emmanuel Macron, the former Minister of Economic affairs under François Hollande who has moved into the centre of the political stage or François Fillon, the former Prime Minister of Nicolas sarkozy who was nominated by the conservatives as their candidate last year.

However, the reliability of polls has been pulled into question in the last 12 months – not only in France, but all around the world. The old way of politics has failed.

This was demonstrated in the UK’s Brexit referendum and later in the election of Donald Trump as President of the Usa. France is no exception. six months ago, no one had expected François Fillon to break through the ranks and beat ex-President Nicolas sarkozy or former Prime Mi-

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nister alain Juppé. No one expected former Education Minister Benoît Hamon to win the primaries of the socialist Party against prior Prime Minister Manuel Valls. after five years with François Hollande as state chief, the electorate wants to draw a line under the old way of politics.

"Voters have completely had enough of the political class," Bruno Cautrès, a researcher at the Parisian institute of Cevipof told newspaper La Provence. "The scandal surrounding François Fillon marks the end [of the old way]."

The conservative ex-prime minister, who has already met with Chancellor angela Merkel as a candidate, is facing the chop as the favourite for the Elysée Palace and also an investigation for illegal payments made with taxpayers’ money to his wife and children. as Riviera Insider went to print, the polls were not sure that Fillon would even make it through the first round. a popular, new contender is Macron, who has emerged from the government to enter new territory in the political centre with his movement En Marche, a progressive and social liberal political party founded just last year.

Like the left-wing Jean-Luc Mélenchon, Macron deliberately did not take part in the primary election of the socialists, which were won by Hamon to the surprise of established political research. The left-wing of the current government is now more popular than the current president. The most prominent socialists are already on the side of Macron. all the political commentators, the media and the polls are agreed on the fact that Le Pen will be in contention on 7th May, reaching the second round as her father Jean-Marie Le Pen did in 2002 before losing to Jacques Chirac. The Front National, which has placed France's exit from the European Union, the euro zone and NaTO on its agenda, failed to take political control over the south of France in December 2014 as did the socialists, who had previously ruled in Provence-alpes-Côte d'azur region. Le Pen's niece, Marion Maréchal-Le Pen, is only one the sole members of opposition to Les Républicans (formerly Union pour un Mouvement Populaire).

Front National leader Le Pen has felt the sting of scandal too, having reportedly paid party staff using of EU money. Fillon remains the centre target amid fears that further revelations may come out, but there were also rumours and accusations made against former investment banker Macron before he had even presented his policies.

France hasn’t had such an unpredictable election since Charles de Gaulle. 

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PoliTics

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Riviera Insider journalists Peter Bausch and Julian Nundy weigh up the candidates and their likelihoods of success ahead of the 2017 election. Only one thing is certain: the names of the most promising quartet - Fillon, Macron, Le Pen and Hamon - all end with in ‘n’.

a TumulTuous camPaign Political commentator in Paris: Julian Nundy

Since the birth of France’s Fifth republic in 1958, never has the outcome of a presidential election been so uncertain. he campaign for the election this spring has been buffeted by surprises: the eclipse of the pollsters’ favourites; suspicions of financial greed on the part of the one-time frontrunner; and a background campaign by Russia to ruin another’s chances.

On 23rd april and 7th May, 45 million voters will be invited to choose France’s president for the next five years. as the campaign entered its final weeks, only one thing seemed certain: that Marine Le Pen, leader of the farright anti-immigration National Front, will qualify for the second and final round in May. The identity of her likely opponent changed when François Fillon, the winner of conservative primaries in November and prime minister under President Nicolas sarkozy from 2007 to 2012, became embroiled in a scandal over substantial payments out of his parliamentary allowances to his British-born wife, Penelope, and two of their five children. Penelope - in rare statements to the media over the years - maintained that she kept a distance from her husband’s career, never hinting that she was in fact a salaried member of his staff.

The revelations in the satirical and investigative weekly Le Canard Enchaîné sent Fillon’s campaign reeling, with speculation that his Les Républicains party would replace him, possibly with alain Juppé, another former prime minister and runner-up in the primaries.

The scandal was heightened by the righteous tone of

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Until the scandal erupted, Fillon was the pollsters’ frontrunner to face Marine Le Pen in the second round - and the most likely to win.

the deeply Catholic Fillon’s own statements stressing his ‘values’ and the need for morality and probity in public life. at one point, he singled out sarkozy, facing charges for alleged impropriety in financing his own failed 2012 presidential re-election campaign, as an example of the contrary.

Fillon, 62, told a press conference 12 days after the first reports that he had committed ‘a mistake’ by not being open about his wife’s role alongside him, but insisted that he remained a candidate and would fight to win.

Nevertheless, speculation persisted that he might be forced to quit.

Until the scandal erupted, Fillon was the pollsters’ frontrunner to face Marine Le Pen in the second round - and the most likely to win. This scenario would have brought together two candidates who have argued for lifting Europe’s economic sanctions against Russia, imposed after the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the outbreak of conflict in eastern Ukraine.

The campaign turmoil served one man: Emmanuel Macron, a former banker who was economy minister from 2014 until last year under the incumbent socialist president, François Hollande. Macron, 39, has run a ‘social liberal’ campaign proposing measures to free up the French economy that many business actors consider long overdue.

Enter Izvestia. The Moscow daily led allegations on Russian websites that Macron, married to a woman 24 years his senior, had something to hide. The Paris rumour mill went into overdrive and it was Macron himself who revealed the essence of the rumours – that he was in a homosexual relationship with a prominent media boss – a scenario that Macron ridiculed.

The episode gave substance to fears expressed by French and German security services that Russia – after meddling in the U.s. presidential election – would disrupt votes in Europe. Macron has a less conciliatory view of ties with Russia than either Fillon or Le Pen. a poll just after Fillon’s press conference showed him dropping to a poor third place, with Macron surging ahead to the runoff against Le Pen, herself facing a call from the European Parliament to reimburse 300,000 euros for salaries paid to party workers disguised as parliamentary aides, a parallel scandal which seemed to do little harm to her image.

Meanwhile, the left, after five years of a lacklustre socialist presidency, appeared to be a total also-ran, with socialist Party candidate Benoît Hamon and his hardleft opponent, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, jostling for poor fourth and fifth places. all unless fresh shocks send this campaign into a new upheaval. 

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chariTY

Photo 1 170 mimosa runners took Part in the 2016 marathon

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Photo 2 & 3 the setting for last year’s fundraising cocktail event Photo 4 run club for the marathon event Will begin in earnest toWards the end of the summer Photo 5 the mimosa ladies (ellie goblet d’alviella is Pictured third from right)

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mimosa A community against cancer 4

Mimosa Matters began around a kitchen table in the south of France when the tragic, collective experiences of an inspirational group of women motivated them to stand up and start making a By elsa CaRPeNteR difference.

5

t was back in 2013 that the seed of Mimosa Matters was first sown.

Ellie Goblet d’alviella, a British expat who had moved to France with her young family two years earlier, was seated in the kitchen of a friend’s house talking about her younger brother’s recent diagnosis of stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

“It became clear that this was something we were all affected by: mothers, fathers, siblings and friends,” says Ellie. “My brother was the very reason we started fundraising and we thought that rather than raise

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money for charities in the UK, we’d try and help down here. We had all come to the French Riviera to live and work, and we want to be able to give back to the community that has embraced us.”

Mimosa is made of eight expat women from around the world - the UK, Ireland, sweden and Romania as well as France. all coming from various career backgrounds, the group decided to pool their talents and expertise to raise funds for the many local sufferers and cancer associations in the south of France.

“We're officially registered as an association in France and like to think of ourselves as a charitable association and community rather than a charity,” says Ellie. “That’s why we teamed up with La Ligue contre le Cancer 06. La Ligue is the number one national charitable organisation against cancer in France and we’ve been supporting the alpesMaritimes chapter since we started.”

Public attitude and the charitable giving structures are very different in France to those of the UK - “How many times have you been asked to sponsor a neighbour’s child or seen organisations in the street asking for donations?” - and Ellie explains that it took a while for La Ligue to understand what Mimosa was trying to do for them.

“La Ligue were at first surprised by our offer to help them as it's not something usually done, especially by a group of expats, but I think we've made some good inroads into the French charitable scene and the French community is starting to notice.”

Over the last three and a half years, the group has raised upwards of 140,000€, with the majority of money going towards La Ligue’s Espace Ligue centre in antibes.

“We were one of the biggest financial supporters behind launching the antibes centre,” says Ellie, “and while the money we’ve raised so far is by no means ‘big’ compared to UK standards, we have become one of the largest donors to La Ligue. since the Espace Ligue opened in antibes in October 2015, over 500 appointments have been made. It’s a place where cancer sufferers can go for support and counselling, learn about alternative therapies, try out wearing a wig, and get dietary and beauty advice. It’s also a place for families of sufferers to go to and receive support. around 57 patients are seen there regularly.”

Mimosa is also hoping to work with La Ligue to launch a prevention campaign - “Regionally or nationally!” says Ellie - that will target and highlight the lesser known cancers, with a focus of ovarian and prostate cancer.

“Juliette [Clarkin, of Mimosa] has been asked to join La Ligue board of directors. Her background is marketing, mine is PR, Marilen’s [Kenington] is law…

We’ve got an accountant, event organisers, chefs…

Everyone in their Mimosa team has their role. We are by no means experts in cancer, but we all have heart and conviction.”

“WHaT I LOVE aBOUT MIMOsa Is THaT sUPPORTERs HaVE TaKEN OUR IDEa aND RUN WITH IT”

Mimosa Matters gala dinner Join the Mimosa Matters community at their annual black tie fundraising event 13th May royal Mougins Golf Club Champagne reception Three course gourmet dinner DJ and entertainment Charitable auction 150€ a ticket reservations can be made at info@mimosamatters.org

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39

as well as La Ligue, there are other initiatives Mimosa fundraises for.

“We’ve visited the paediatric oncology unit at the L’archet hospital in Nice,” Ellie explains, “and gave a cheque that will pay for entertainment and things for the ward during the summer months when everyone else is outside in the sun. We’ve been able to send a few families to Disney World too. seeing the children still smiling despite everything they’re going through is truly inspirational. We also give a percentage of the money we raise to angela anderson and her team at Cancer support Group 06.”

CsG06 was established in 2009 by a group of cancer patients and survivors, concerned psychologists and an oncology nurse who recognised the need for a cancer support group in the English-speaking community in the French Riviera. They provide everything from legal council and linguistic assistance at medical appointments to companionship and moral support.

“They are really on the frontline of the fight against cancer and are at the bedsides of patients,” says Ellie.

For the next few months, the Mimosa calendar - and those of the women behind it, who run the association around their families and careers - will be full of organisation as three events are planned.

“On 4th april, we’re holding a spring-summer fashion sale at the Le Provençal Golf Club where people can bring and buy ‘gently worn’ second-hand women’s and children's clothes. There are also plans afoot this year for a mini-Mimosa sporting event for children.

Many of our children and the children we know really wanted to help and participate in the Nice-Cannes marathon, but couldn’t for obvious reasons, and they are desperate to do something. We want to create an event just for them where the tables are turned and they can be sponsored for their efforts.” a fortnight later and the team will be getting dressed up for their annual gala dinner, which is taking place on 13th May at the Royal Mougins Golf Club and is being sponsored by yPI (details can be found to the left).

“In 2016, we had 170 runners in the Nice-Cannes marathon and we raised over 25,000€. It seemed for a while as if the marathon wasn’t even going to happen after the terror attack in Nice, but the organisers chose to move the start up into the Eco Vallée. It meant that people who had planned to run a three kilometre leg now had to do seven! It was difficult, but the runners’ determination was heartwarming and inspirational. Even if some had to walk, they still said: ‘I want to do this for you.’”

Mimosa will be organising marathon teams and a weekly run group later this year, but for now, you can follow their work and progress on the Facebook page: Mimosa Matters.

“What I love about Mimosa is that supporters have taken our idea and run with it,” Ellie concludes. “all year round, people are organising satellite events and it’s created a true sense and spirit of community.” 

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business & finance

roam like aT home EU moves closer to total abolition of roaming charges

Taxe D’habiTaTion relief for secondhand home owners in Nice he Fédération Nationale de l’Immobilier Côte d’azur (FNaIM) has welcomed a decision by the Municipal Council of Nice not to increase the taxe d’habitation surcharge on people who own se-cond homes in the city. In 2015, France implemented the law requiring a 20% surcharge on prop-erties that aren’t registered as a primary residence in areas of France where there is a recognised housing shortage.

The measure was designed to free up housing for long-term, fulltime occupants in parts of the country where accommodation can be tricky to find. These socalled ‘stressed areas’ include the much of the Côte d’azur and almost all of France’s major cities.

While Nice may well be one of these such areas a zone tendue - the local council has decided not to increase the surcharges in 2017.

The Côte d’azur’s FNaIM argues that any new taxation will only serve to further paralyse an very important part of the real estate market in the alpes-Maritimes. The FNaIM also criticised the law for failing to provide a route for people to rent out their second home long-term and also reserve a period of annual occupation for themselves ‘despite the property having been bought for this reason’.

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uropean lawmakers have finally agreed on a deal to cap the wholesale charges mobile operators charge each other to allow customers to use their phones whilst roaming in the EU. The motion has been described as the ‘last piece of the puzzle’ in moving towards a total abolition of roaming charges in the EU on 15th June 2017.

Representatives from the European Parliament, Council and Commission agreed on the following wholesale caps: 3.2 cents per minute of voice call as of 15th June 2017; 1 cent per sMs as of 15th June 2017; and a step-by-step reduction over five years for data caps decreasing from 7.70€ per GB (as of 15th June 2017) to 6.00€ per GB (as of 1st January

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usufrucT & bare ownershiP

JEAN-PHILIPPE GIOANNI, TAX ADVISOR AND CONSULTANT IN CANNES © Fabien Prauss

n France, the démembrement (dismemberment) of ownership makes it possible to transmit property. It consists of splitting the ownership between usufruit (usufruct) and nue-propriété (bare ownership).

The usufruct is the right to use and enjoy the property as well as to receive income from it too. Usually, the usufruct expires on the death of the usufructuary. The bare owner has only the right of ownership of a property, not the right to enjoy its use or to sell the real estate.

This possibility of démembrement can be very useful if you want to

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2018), 4.50€ per GB (as of 1st January 2019), 3.50€ per GB (as of 1st January 2020), 3.00€ per GB (as of 1st January 2021) and 2.50€ per GB (as of 1st January 2022) according to the European Commission: “For a decade, the Commission has been working to reduce and ultimately end the surcharges that telecoms operators imposed on their customers each time they crossed a border. since 2007, roaming prices have decreased by more than 90%.

In 2015, and based on a proposal of the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council agreed to end roaming charges for people travelling periodically in the EU. The Telecoms single Market

leave your real estate to your children. a parent can give the bare ownership to their children and decide that the surviving spouse has the use of the house for life. The valuation is made thanks a table according to the age of the usufructuary: For example: Mrs. smith is 60 years old and has a house that is valued at 500,000€. she gives her daughter the bare ownership of her house, which means in her case 250,000€. after deduction of a 100,000€ tax-free allowance (because it is the first donation for her daughter), the taxable amount is reduced to 150,000€ and the gift tax is 28,194€.

Without this donation, on her death, the daughter would have had to pay a gift tax of 78,194€. The démembrement allows in this case

Regulation entrusted the Commission with the task of reviewing the wholesale roaming markets and making appropriate proposals before 15th June 2016, in order to enable the abolition of retail roaming charges from 15th June 2017.”

Mr andrus ansip, Vice-President for the Digital single Market, has welcomed the agreement: "This was the last piece of the puzzle. as of 15th June, Europeans will be able to travel in the EU without roaming charges. We have also made sure that operators can continue competing to provide the most attractive offers to their home markets. Today we deliver on our promise.” 

a 50,000€ saving.

There is also the possibility of buying the bare property of a home too. The price is reduced according to the age of the usufructuary and in this case, usufruct is generally set for a fixed term (between 18 and 20 years). after this period, the buyer recovers full ownership of his property. The other advantage is that the property is maintained because the usufructuary is responsible over the whole period for all costs, work and taxes; only extraordinary expenses are charged to the bare owner.

Bare ownership has consequently several advantages and another important thing to know is that bare ownership is not liable to French Wealth Tax (IsF) and the loan interests are deductible from income tax.

age of usufructuary

Value of usufruct

Value of the bare ownership

Less than 21 years old

90 %

10 %

Less than 31 years old

80 %

20 %

Less than 41 years old

70 %

30 %

Less than 51 years old

60 %

40 %

Less than 61 years old

50 %

50 %

Less than 71 years old

40 %

60 %

Less than 81 years old

30 %

70 %

Less than 91 years old

20 %

80 %

More than 91 years old

10 %

90 %

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a recorD Year Aéroport Marseille Provence or the region’s second busiest airport and the country’s second biggest city, 2016 was a good year. Despite trends felt elsewhere in a year marked by terror attacks and political upheaval, aéroport Marseille Provence had a bumper 12 months that saw passenger numbers grow, the freight industry excel and a massive redevelopment project begin.

In 2016, almost 8.5 million passengers passed through Marseille’s airport - an additional 214,000 on the previous year. 3.5 million (of these passengers) were domestic travellers. For those travelling outside of France, London remained the top destination with over 500,000 departing for the British capital. amsterdam and schipol International airport came in second and algiers in third.

Freight rose by 7.1% to 55,900 tonnes of goods. a spokesperson for aéroport Marseille Provence said this increase was largely in

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thanks to the development of the express freight industry by companies such as DHL and Chronopost.

In the last 10 years, connections to Europe from the airport have doubled. another 16 continental flight paths have been announced for 2017 such as London Luton, alicante, Faro, split and Ibiza. Longhaul additions include a twice-weekly connection to saintDenis on the island of Réunion and flights to Montréal with air Canada and air Transat.

The new routes bring the total of destinations accessible direct from aéroport Marseille Provence to 103 in 25 countries.

The annual turnover is expected to be in the region of 134 million euros and debt remained low in 2016 at 16 million euros despite the many construction and redevelopment works. Marseille’s airport is currently in the throws of a long-term redevelopment project that aims to elevate the status of the travel hub to that of other

2016 Was a good year for director of aéroPort marseille Provence Pierre régis; 2017 Will be a year of construction and groWth

international airports and promote Marseille as a destination in its own right.

The airport’s good financial

health as well as new airlines and flight paths give us reason to be optimistic about its future,” said the representative for the airport. 

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monaco

amaDe: helPing chilDren arounD The worlD

UNKNOWN MONACO

Princess Caroline continues the work of her mother

By PetRa Hall

aMaDe - “a name easy to remember because it ressembles amour,” said Princess Grace - is just one of Monaco’s 800 associations.

round 800 clubs and associations registered within just two hectares of territory; it barely seems possible, but, of course, this is Monaco. The principality even has a special, dedicated day for associations where members from a wide range of sectors present their work. From sports and culture to youth work, business, environment, health, animal welfare and charities, the associations of Monaco are the mirror of its multifaceted and multicultural society. shaken by the unfathomable suffering of children during the Vietnam War, Princess Grazia Patrizia - as Princess Grace was officially known - founded the politically independent association Mondiale des amis de l'Enfance in 1963. Her vision seemed so self-evident yet sadly so far removed from reality: all children, regardless of skin colour, nationality or religion, should live in dignity, security and with respected human rights. The princess quickly gained support from high-ranking personalities like Otto von Habsburg (the last Crown Prince of austria-Hungary) and soon aMaDE received international recognition. In the 1970s, the club received a consultancy status at UNICEF, UNICEF and ECOsOC. Over the course of time, aMaDE has become more and more specialised. The main focus of its activities is on children living in war zones; to protect them from violence, exploitation and abuse, and to support them with access to education and health. In 1993, Princess Caroline of Hanover adopted the presidency. Under her, aMaDE places new emphasis on education, creating a healthy environment for vulnerable children, protecting them against exploitation as cheap labor and promoting equal opportunities, and vaccination campaigns. aMaDE fights injustice on all fronts from malnutrition and illiteracy to the aIDs pandemic, child prostitution and sexual tourism. Wherever children are in need, aMaDE aims to be there for them.

Just one example is the association’s work with UNICEF between 1997 and 2002, which established a comprehensive programme against diet-related blindness on the african continent. aMaDE’s involvement was primarily centred on Mali, Cameroon and Mauritania where seven million small children were cured. In 2003, Princess Caroline was named a UNEsCO Goodwill ambassador for the education of young girls and women. aMaDE has numerous antennas throughout Europe and the rest of the world, which are independent, but linked by signed agreements to the main body.

Princess Caroline of Hanover, who regularly travels to war zones and crisis areas, is as passionate for aMaDE and its campaigns as Princess Grace was: “When my mother founded aMaDE, it was her main concern that children grow up with compassion and love. The situation looks very different today [from aMaDE’s inception]…

The threats to which children are being exposed have grown considerably over the years and they are getting worse. The challenges have evolved, as has aMaDE. Despite all this, the core message is the same as the one that my mother wanted to convey: children must be the centre of all our thoughts.” 

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aN INTERVIEW WITH

Jérôme Froissart Secretary General of AMADE Mondiale

Left photo Princess caroline and jerome froissart (l) Pictured during their mission in the congolese rePublic last sePtember

Far left photo Princess caroline at a school in the congolese rePublic

FACTS ABOUT AMADE’S WORKS Since 2000: More than 66,000 vulnerable children have received regular school education Over 50,000 children have been treated for or cured of disease 3,200 children living on the streets have found new homes

Jérôme Froissart, what are the current projects of the child welfare organisation AMADE? Our current programmes focus on the social and professional reintegration of children living on the streets of Congolese capital of Kinshasa; the demobilisation of child soldiers in the east of the country; ensuring education for young girls in Burundi; and the fight against infant mortality in Mali. In addition, aMaDE Mondiale works with many syrian refugee children and underage immigrants who land alone on the Italian coast. We have launched an initiative for the accommodation of these young people as well as psychosocial and legal support and vocational training upon their arrival. We are currently working on programmes in Italy and Germany.

Millions of children are in need worldwide. Do you sometimes feel that your work has an impossible goal? yes, this can sometimes be really daunting. That children must be protected is something everyone can agree with, but when it comes to implementing the principles of the International Convention on the Rights of the Child, the reality is quite different. Trafficking, sexual exploitation, forced labor… These are all very lucrative activities for the perpetrators! also the various threats and hazards vulnerable children face are not always visible, investigations are necessary and one is often confronted with terrible things. It is easier to ignore it. 25,000 unaccompanied immigrant children have disappeared since their arrival in Europe.

Who is talking about that? I can not forget the memo-

ries of visiting a camp in the north of Kivu with our president. Only 600 of 6,000 children living there went to school and only because the teachers had accepted to work for six months without pay. Breaking the cycle of violence in this region can only be made possible with a school education. Without that, there is no hope for a better future and the children will inevitably fall into the hands of the militia.

How is AMADE Mondiale funded? aMaDE finances its programmes thanks to the generosity of donors. If these have a special desire - where or how they want to help - we propose a specific programme. This can be a certain country or a natural catastrophe, which necessitates the construction of schools. some support a specific project on a joyous event such as a birth or wedding. Instead of gifts, they call for donations. They also contributes financially to aMaDE's social responsibility policy.

Princess Caroline has been the President of AMADE since 1993. How does she help AMADE specifically?

Princess Caroline is very active in the life of our association: she presides over the board, decides on strategies and partnerships, and also on special projects.

In addition, she visits our antenna branches and therefore the children who benefit from aMaDE. Her last mission took place last september. In the Congolese Republic she met, among others, young girls who were accused of witchcraft by their families and with former ‘street’ children and child soldiers. 

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cfm sells ‘fracTion’ of business To cmb

clIents outsIDe of aeoI ReGulatIons affecteD onaco-based CFM Indom suez Wealth Management has announced that it has sold a portion of its business within the principality to rival bank Compagnie Monégasque de Banque (CMB). The former says the move is in line with its ‘proactive approach to limit client relations to residents of countries participating in the automatic Exchange of Information’.

On 20th January, CFM Indosuez Wealth Management confirmed that it had sold a fraction of its business - ‘namely clients resident in

african countries’ - to CMB. “This agreement is in line with CFM Indosuez Wealth Management’s proactive approach to limit client relations to residents of countries participating in aEOI (automatic Exchange of Information),” said a spokesperson for the bank. “It is also in line with Indosuez Wealth Management group’s strategy to refocus its positions with clients in its key markets.”

The automatic Exchange of Information regulations came into force in Monaco on 1st January 2017. 

J. safra sarasin buYs ouT creDiT suisse monaco

Global PRIvate bank welcoMes new clIents nternational private banking group J. safra sarasin has announced its successful acquisition of acquisition of Credit suisse (Monaco) s.a.M. according to the bank, which has been operating in Monaco since 2006, the transaction strengths its presence in the principality and demonstrates its determination to reinforce its position as an impor-

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tant financial centre. “We are determined to continue playing a leading role in the consolidation of the private banking market,” says Jacob J. safra, Vice-Chairman of J. safra sarasin Holding aG. “We are proud to have completed another transaction and to welcome the clients and colleagues of Credit suisse (Monaco) s.a.M. to the J. safra sarasin Group.” 

uniTeD naTions High Commissioner for Refugees visits Monaco he United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, met with Monaco officials in midFebruary. Grandi was accomp-anied on the trip by Ralf Gruenert, the representative for France and Monaco of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

In 2016, Monaco was the fifth largest donor to the UNHCR per capita and the day-long visit was an opportunity for the principality to affirm its community to the Declaration for Refugees and Migrants, which was adopted by the UN General assembly in september 2016. as such, the visit ended with the signing of two partnership agreements that set out a total of 670,000€ in contributions over the next three years. The projects this sum will finance aim to support refugees in Morocco and Tunisia. Grandi

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received a personal audience with Prince albert II as well as anneMarie Boisbouvier, advisor in the Prince’s Cabinet, and Carole Lanteri, ambassador and Permanent Representative of Monaco to the Office of the United Nations in Geneva. Monaco has worked with the UNHCR for over six decades and ‘has always expressed its solidarity with those fleeing war or persecution’. a representative for the Monegasque government says: “These meetings offered an opportunity to highlight the urgency of the migration crisis, especially in the Mediterranean, and also to reaffirm the principality’s longstanding support for UNHCR. The procedure put in place by the government to welcome refugees from the Middle East was also a focus of the discussions: the Principality intends to shoulder its share of the responsibility at the global level.” 

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riviera insider hears from Director of Communication Wendy Heinicken from iBS of Provence, an international language school near aix-en-Provence. t IBs of Provence, we believe that as a school, we have an obligation to teach our students the importance of the core values of tolerance, acceptance and respect for all people. Our greatest resource, beyond our caring and competent teaching staff and our family-like atmosphere, comes from the diversity of our school community, which today counts more than 60 different nationalities. This interaction of cultures and differing ideas and beliefs provides an excellent learning opportunity for our students, both in and outside of the classroom as students, not only learn from their teachers, they learn from each other.

It is the school’s role to provide a safe, stimulating learning

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environment where students can develop the critical thinking skills to question the world around them, this must also be done in an open-minded, broad-focused manner, and always within a context of respect and tolerance of others. according to Mr Di Mauro, assistant IB Director and Global Politics Professor at IBs, “One of the most exciting things we observe in our classes is the convergence of different ideas, different perspectives, different beliefs, which combine to enrich the learning experience of our students. Conversations our students have in this environment simply would not happen elsewhere and it is our firm belief that as educators, we must do our utmost to ensure a safe,

hospitable, intellectually rigorous and nurturing space for students to explore new ideas. Respectful, objective discourse is an imperative in my course not only because it is a pre-requisite for creating a positive atmosphere, but also because it gives students a chance to suspend judgement and critically evaluate received notions about society, power and international affairs.

In a time of increased division

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said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” Numerous studies have shown that being bilingual or multilingual has not only cognitive advantages but social ones too. Being able to put yourself in someone else’s language, and culture, is one step towards the understanding of others.

“DIFFERENCE Is OF THE EssENCE OF HUMaNITy…THE aNsWER TO DIFFERENCE Is TO REsPECT IT. THEREIN LIEs a MOsT FUNDaMENTaL PRINCIPLE OF PEaCE: REsPECT FOR DIVERsITy.” john hume, 1998 nobel Peace Prize Winner

and political tensions, perhaps the greatest asset these young people can attain for life beyond our walls is the ability to think critically and forge new paths forward both for themselves and for future generations to come.” another important element in promoting intercultural understanding is language acquisition. as Nelson Mandela

Finally, while it is of course important for us to teach our students the foundations of Maths, science, History and other academic subjects, it is equally important that we educate them to become responsible, honest and empathic adults who will eventually go out into the world to lead and influence others around them in a positive way. 

aDverTorial

how can a school fosTer inTerculTural unDersTanDing?

eDucaTion

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male moDel Riviera Insider presents the latest collections and newly opened boutiques for men’s fashion in the Côte d’Azur.

The genTleman’s shoe Patino established in Monaco in 1959, PatIno creators Maison charlet have made their name thanks to their uncompromising pursuit of excellence in design and material. using only the finest leather goods sourced from the tannerie d’annonay and traditional techniques honed to perfection, PatIno shoes for men are extraordinary. featuring an emblematic green leather sole - chosen for the connotation of life, freedom and luxury - the shoemakers work with an ethos of sustainability and durability, ensuring PatIno’s continuing giving year after year. a pair can be yours from 395€.

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a bolD new worlD NUE 19.04 after more than a decade working as a stylist at IKKs, Cyril Paillot took the brave step of launching his own fashion line in 2012. In the summer of last year, Cyril opened his first boutique in the south of France with a dynamic women’s line that championed femininity in its elegance and fierceness. Fast forward to a few months later and the designer is presenting his first men’s collection. Riviera Insider caught up with him to find out more.

Top photo founder of nue 19.04 cyril Paillot Photos snaPshots from cyril’s neW mensWear collection

Cyril, how did you first get into the fashion industry?

I’m self-taught. I began my career at 17 years of age as a childrenswear stylist at Catimini. By 25, I was freelance so I could start working on my own projects and women’s collections. Quite naturally, after three years of collaboration with IKKs childrenswear, I created the IKKs WOMEN line and I was the artistic director for several years. Whilst still working for IKKs, I launched my own brand NUE 19.04 in 2011.

What’s the reasoning behind the name NUE 19.04?

NUE represents the carnal, sensual spirit. I wash or treat all of my materials - cottons, silks, leathers - to change them and to give them a new feel. It’s a sensuous relationship between fabric and fibre. 19.04 is my date of birth and I like the graphic impact of using numbers.

The Polygone Riviera boutique is your first store. Do you have plans to open any others here in France or abroad?

We’re actively looking for a boutique in Paris. The experiences we’ve gained from our large store at Polygone Riviera make me very eager to find other partnerships that would allow us to open additional sites for the brand in France and further afield.

Why did you decide to launch a men’s line and how would you describe the collection?

It grew from a desire to expand the NUE 19.04 line. after the launch of the boutique, which we manage as a concept store, it was client demand and the spirit of the brand that convinced me.

I create the menswear in the same way I do for the women’s collection: colours in half shades, timeless pieces, little details and always that signature ‘rock’ edge.

What trends would you predict for menswear in 2017?

I’m not really into the trends in fashion! I like the idea that one can wear my designs season-after-season.

This is all the more true for my menswear line that I perceive as being timeless.

If you had to select three key pieces from the new collection, what would they be?

Treated leather jacket, a washed-silk shirt and some distressed denim.

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PrêT à PorTer Karl Lagerfeld for over a decade, olivier Deleuse has been styling the fashion trailblazers of the côte d’azur from his store, Duncan, at the entrance of vieux nice. now he’s turned his fashion flair to launching the region’s first karl lagerfeld boutique, which can also be found in the heart of the city’s chic historic quartier and offers almost 200m² over high-end, prêt à porter wear for men.

Tick Tock Omega swiss watchmaker oMeGa has opened its first Monaco store and it couldn’t have chosen a more prestigious location for its showcase.

Positioned just to the left of the grand doors of the Monte carlo casino, the new showroom and boutique of 80m² presents a plethora of the great timepieces by this famous brand such as the speedster Professional (also known as the Moonwatch thanks to its status as being the first watch on the moon in 1969) and James bond’s signature seamaster. visitors and clients can also discover the latest pieces in the Master chronometer collection and the exciting seamaster Planet ocean Deep black.

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Pre-basel reveal Breguet with baselworld 2017 - the world’s biggest international trade show for the jewellery and horology industry - just weeks away (23rd to 30th March), breguet has made a last minute reveal: the stunning tradition Dame 7038 watch. encased in 18-carat rose gold, the bezel is set with 68 brilliant-cut diamonds and the dial is a natural white mother of pearl; arabic numerals figure around open-tipped hands in gold; and the barrel is hand-engraved with a rosette motif. breguet has achieved the assimilation of the traditionally masculine style of mechanical horology with a feminine aesthetic in this self-winding timepiece. It is also water resistant up to 30 metres - a useful addition for a lifestyle like that of the french Riviera, where style knows no boundaries from the land to the sea.

flagshiP heriTage Longines 2017 marks the 60th anniversary of swiss watchmaker longines’ flagship collection. the very first flagship was sold in 1957 and the sophisticated styling has been met with success ever since. this particular timepiece - which is available in steel, yellow gold and rose gold - is inspired by a flagship model that ambassador of elegance kate winslet fell in love with during a visit to the brand’s headquarters in saint-Imier. Just 60 of each gold version are available and the steel models are limited to 1957 timepieces. as with the original designs, the back of these commemorative watches bears a stamped caravel: the real flagship.

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The lauren 1980

women’s eDiT Iconic moments

Bottega Veneta almost four decades after lauren Hutton starred as Michelle stratton alongside Richard Gere in american Gigolo, her iconic red intrecciato nappa leather clutch has once again taken centre stage as bottega veneta celebrates its 50th anniversary. a-list Hutton has paired up with the upmarket Italian leather and accessories brand to model the woven purse, which is currently on sale in limited edition for 1,800â‚Ź.

golDen ThreaDs Akris Discover the stunning collectors scarves collection at the Monaco akris boutique, which is found in the Pavillons de Monte carlo.

Diverse, alluring and made of the finest silks, there are countless designs such as the piece featured here, which is inspired by John frankenheimer’s movie Grand Prix in Monaco from 1966. alongside the scarves is the main collection. for spring/summer 2017 edition, designer albert kriemler has dedicated the collection to new York artist carmen Herrera and is comprised of geometric apparel in luxurious materials with elegant accessories and a luscious forest green colour that seeps throughout the line.

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ciTY blossom Longchamp spring has arrived. as arms and legs welcome the first warm rays of french Riviera sun, longchamp’s newly released city blossom collection will provide a lively colour palette of stripes and petals with a 1960s/sportswear vibe. the biker jacket is the season’s focal piece and can be purchased in a sporty or structured style. Pastel pinks and powder blues are played off against the heartier shades of burgundy and navy with bold, graphic touches of black and white piping.

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Db11 “The most important car Aston Martin has launched in its existence” it’s been heralded as a new chapter in the history of aston Martin and the ‘bold new figurehead of the illustrious DB bloodline’. riviera insider presents the DB11.

the new Db11 is the first car to be released by the luxury automotive brand under its second century plan and is the most powerful Db model in aston Martin’s history thanks to its original, in-house designed 5.2 litre twin-turbocharged v12 engine and pioneering aerodynamics. ceo andy Palmer says, “we aspire to make the most beautiful cars in the world. Db11 is the absolute embodiment of what an aston Martin should be and we have worked tirelessly to ensure that Db11 combines both exceptional design with the latest technology.” vision and function come together under a new bonded aluminium structure and the design is the latest landmark in an evolving ‘aesthetic journey’ for aston Martin. It is lighter, stronger and more space efficient than ever before - especially for leg and head room in the rear - and features a fresh and distinctive design language that sets it apart from the other Db models that have come before it. from the accentuated lines of the iconic aston Martin grille to the front-hinging clamshell bonnet and its dramatic profile, the reimagined Grand tourer displays the finest of the brand’s innovation and tradition.

Its beating heart - the 5.2 litre twin-turbocharged v12 engine - develops 600bHP and 700nm of torque to establish it as not only the most powerful, but also the most accelerative too. the Db11 has a top speed of 320km/h and a 0 to 100km/h time of less than four seconds. there are three modes - Gt, sport and sport Plus - allowing the driver to tune into the car and achieve a driving experience that ‘combines exemplary ride comfort and true sports car agility’. “this is not only the most important car that aston Martin has launched in recent history, but all in its 104-year existence,” says Palmer. “the Db11 rightfully places aston Martin once again as a leading brand in the luxury automotive market.”

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ToP marques An event of superlatives Supercars, super boats, superyachts and now a super ship: the line-up for the 2017 edition of Top Marques promises a record-breaking event on a seriously epic scale. over the years, top Marques has been the stage for many a world premier and product launch, but in 2017, it has been chosen as the platform for the launch of the newest and most luxurious cruise liner on earth. on the eve of the event, which is taking place from 20th to 23rd april at the Grimaldi forum, 700-foot silver Muse will be officially christened in front of Monaco’s Port Hercules before the ‘super ship’ embarks on her maiden voyage along the amalfi coast. “we are delighted to be welcoming silver Muse to top Marques,” says Managing Director of the event Manoj bairstow. “she is without any doubt the largest luxury product we have ever had amongst our exhibitors.”

Director of the luxury lifestyle show steven saltzman adds, “top Marques has a tradition for identifying best in class and silver Muse will be at the summit of cruising on Day one.”

billed as ‘the ultimate car show’, top Marques will also be presenting a range of top-of-the-line sports cars. Prince albert II of Monaco himself will be unveiling a number of world debuts and although many of the reveals are top secret, Riviera Insider can announce that visitors can expect to see the likes of the D8 Gto-Rs by Donkervoort (the fastest and lightest D8 Gto ever built by Dutch boutique car manufacturer), the 2,000bhp berus from keating supercars in the uk, and the brand new edition of the 1.8 million euro asfané Italian supercar by frangivento, which has been named after Princess charlotte of Monaco. “each year, we try to bring our visitors the very latest innovations from the luxury supercar industry. In 2016, we launched the arcaboard - the world’s first ever flying hover board, and in 2015, we exhibited the aeroMobil, a flying car,” says bairstow. “we have some equally incredible surprises up our sleeves for the next edition.” top Marques is a unique event that allows its clients the thrill of test driving its showcase vehicles on the famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit. alongside the main event is the watch & Jewellery Pavilion, which has made a name for itself independently of top Marques as a high-profile destination for the world’s must exclusive luxury brands. tickets start at 36€ per day. with the Premium multi-day pass, which costs 250€, visitors can enjoy access to the full four days of exhibitions and events as well as a three-course meal at the top Marques restaurant. Riviera Insider also has free tickets up for grabs, head to the competitions section of the website rivierapress.fr/insider for your chance to win.  topmarquesmonaco.com

monaco honours chamPion Drivers With the Médaille d'Or des Sports

PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: JaCQUEs PasTOR, sTéPHaNE RICHELMI, CHaRLEs LECLERC, DEPUTy MayOR MaRJORIE CROVETTO-HaRROCH, MayOR GEORGEs MaRsaN, NICO ROsBERG aND HIs WIFE VIVIaN sIBOLD, aND THE WINNERs OF THE 2016 E-RaLLyE MONTECaRLO IN THE ELECTRIC VEHICLEs CaTEGORy CHRIsTOPHE PONsET aND sERGE PasTOR.

at the start of 2017, the Principality of Monaco honoured three of its local drivers with the prestigious Médaille d'or des sports - the Gold Medal for sport - at a ceremony hosted at the offices of Mayor Georges Marsan. formula 1 world champion in 2016 and Monaco resident nico Rosberg stood alongside Monegasque drivers charles leclerc, reigning GP3 champion, and stéphane Richelmi, who won the lMP2 category at 24 Hours of le Mans last year, as each brilliant athlete was awarded a medal for their achievements by the mayor.

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The P3 Automobiles experience in Cannesla-Bocca

P3 automobiles is an official member of the lamborghini service netWork

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any driver of an expensive sports car will tell you it’s about more than just the look and feel of the vehicle. For the most exhilarating experience, ensure your drive is in excellent shape.

P3 automobiles in cannes-la-bocca, a few minutes’ drive from the sortie 41 exit of the a8, has just opened its brand new private showroom. the company is a specialist in luxury brands such as lamborghini, ferrari and Maserati, and has an impressive collection of high-end models on display for purchase. the company has been part of the official lamborghini service network since 1988 and also specialises in the restoration of vintage vehicles. It provides maintenance services for all vehicles under warranty as well as servicing, the sourcing of original and authentic spare parts and the buying and selling of second-hand, luxury cars. as part of its bespoke services, P3 automobiles will arrange and oversee the guardianage of your vehicle and will take care of all storage and maintenance concerns whilst you are abroad or travelling. they’ll even pick up your vehicle from your home address. open Monday to saturday, 8.30am to 6pm  47 avenue maurice chevalier, cannes-la-bocca

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PrivaTe & Personal

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so much more than tennis By aIla stöCKMaNN

Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters onaco’s international tennis tournament has long been more than just a sporting event. It is an event for the whole family in one of the most spectacular settings in the south of France even on the global tennis circuit, no stadium or court can compete with the Monte-Carlo Country Club. From 15th to 23rd april, it will be the stage for matches between the best players in the world as the likes of Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal head to the principality for the year’s first clay court matches.

"They love the tournament,” says director Zeljko Franulovic in his usual direct style. It is not arrogance, it is a fact. at a press conference earlier this year, Franulovic highlighted competitor support for the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters with a video message from record winner Nadal. He will be back in 2017, of course, and he is already looking forward to the tournament; at the 111th edition of the event, Nadal will be fighting for his 10th title in Monaco.

Ivan Lendl, Mats Wilander, Björn Borg and many other familiar names are in the winners' list of the competition, which was launched more than 100 years ago. Today’s director Franulovic scooped the win almost 50 years ago, but none have dominated the tournament in the same way as Rafa.

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Local hero Djokovic, a Monaco resident and Nadal’s most serious competitor this year as well as in the past, confirmed his presence at the Rolex Masters long before the official notification came through.

Roger Federer, another player who alternates between tennis god and audience favourite just like Nadal and Djoko, is yet to confirm whether he will attend. “Not because he does not want to come,” says Franulovic, but because the 35-year-old number nine in the world prefers to see how his game is and how his body is feeling the run-up to an event. We’ll know more on 22nd March when the official participant list will be announced.

For the 111th edition, the tournament has been kept traditional and pure. Most sideline events and programme highlights are welltested among players and spectators such as the Children’s Day on the first sunday, the drawing of the names ceremony (this time at 6.30pm in the Exotic Gardens of Monaco on 14th april) and the ‘Big Night of Tennis’ before the semi-finals (with a tribute to abba in 2017).

Changes are on the horizon though for 2018. according to alain Manigley of the sMETT (société Monégasque pour l'Exploitation de Tournoi de Tennis), the time-honoured facility is shortly to be extended with a new modern, more functional building. It will primarily be used for press conferences and media occasions. “The players of today are often

two metres tall with huge bags and an entourage. They barely fit through the corridors!” Manigley laughs.

If you’re hoping to attend, be quick to reserve your tickets as they sell out faster and faster every year.   montecarlorolexmasters.mc

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Playing pro Michaël Llodra sojourns at Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc

By MIa COlleRaN

n international posse of armoured riders is heading straight for the Palais Nikaïa for the 2017 FIM X-Trial Indoor Championship.

Eight of the world’s top riders have already confirmed their presence at the global meet, which will be taking place on 31st March, as well as local prodigy and young freestyler rider Romain Chalier, who will be showing off the region’s home-grown talent in a unique performance show. Countries from around the world will be represented by their champion riders, such as Brit James Dabill (currently ranked 7th) and Japa-

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uxurious Oetker Collection Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in antibes is promising an unforgettable and intimate encounter with professional tennis player Michaël Llodra. Michael is a three time Grand slam winner and silver Olympic medallist in the London 2012 Olympics. as well as being an excellent athlete Michael is also a lover of wine and he will be sharing these two passions with guests from 11th to 14th May 2017.

The stay will include: nutritional and fitness advice from the athlete during breakfast and

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his warm-up; an hour of singles or doubles tennis on one of the clay courts; and a tasting of three of Michaël Llodra’s favourite wines alongside Xavier Dinet, head sommelier at the five star hotel.

The Oetker Collection have partnered with ‘somewhere Club’ and 30 top athletes, scientists and experts in various fields to put together one-of-a-kind experiences for people worldwide. a night’s stay in a Tradition Room (single or double occupancy, two nights’ stay minimum) with a day of exchanges, one hour of tennis and a wine tasting session with Michaël Llodra costs 1,110€ per night. 

full power X Trail World Championship nese Takahisa Fujinami (in 6th). spain is wellpositioned for a win, with all top five drivers in the current rankings flying the spanish flag: current World Champion and all-round legend Toni Bou leads the pack into the championship event followed by Catalonia’s adam Raga.

20-year-old wunderkind Jaime Busto, also from spain, will be looking to move up the

rankings after a strong 2016 season while Vaucluse rider alexandre Ferrer will be hoping to charm a home crowd. all of the riders will also be slowing up for a signing session at the end of the show, where fans of all ages can meet their trial-biking heroes.

Tickets start at 20€. 

2023 rugby world cup Nice launches bid as host city By MIa COlleRaN he French Federation of Rugby (FFR) and their president Bernard Laporte have relaunched France’s bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Nice has thrown its name into the hat as a host city,

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among 15 others across the country. Lille, Valenciennes, Lens, Le Havre, Rennes, Le Mans, Nantes, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Montpellier, Marseille, Nice, saint-Etienne, Lyon, Grenoble and Nanterre: of all those who would like to be involved in the championship in five years' time, just 10 host cities will be chosen. Nice’s bid was presented by José Corbos at a conference

in Paris. He passionately spoke about the 2016 Euros in Nice and its success, stating that this opportunity to host the Rugby World Cup would also be a great moral boost for Nice. France, Ireland and south africa (the three other candidates for the World Cup) will present their case to World Rugby on 1st June and the chosen country will be announced 15th November. 

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T e e i n g

o f f

o n

T h e

c ô T e

D ’ a z u r

GOLF CORRESPONDENT RAIMUND THEOBALD

a Place in The sun The very charming golf club of Beauvallon is characterised by this geographic, south-facing location: this course is bathed in light and warmth no matter what the season.

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ound nestled between sea and hills at the foot of the Massif des Maures, this beautiful place is, so to speak, our favorite club in the south of France and a course that we always love to play when we spend our holidays in Ramatuelle. It’s been this way for several decades now! as we’ve know the Beauvallon for a very long time at this point, we’ve developed a particularly intimate relationship with the course and its play. after leaving the coast road, between Port Grimaud and saint Maxime, and heading just 500 metres uphill, we arrive at the new clubhouse with its restaurant and country-style building in which the office and pro shop are housed. It is all ‘très chic’.

For today, we booked a tee-off time in advance, but this is not always necessary, especially if you have time on your side. If there’s a little delay to play, have a seat in the sun and get to know some of the many amiable people who spend

time here and, for us, have often been a wonderful source of information for the culinary and current affairs news of the region!

Once on the course, play is equally relaxed. you might be surprised by some of the climbs, but they are easily mastered on foot. The wide and simple Par 4 tracks at the beginning of the round can be deceiving; there are some very tricky holes. There are also some fairways requiring you to cross over roads. Worth mentioning is Hole 14 - a short Par 3 (115m) - where you must first play over a high fence then over a road and finally over a pond. all this should be done with just one hit from the green. Regarding other course water hazards, sometimes there’s a small pool, but nothing stands in your way.

The most interesting holes come at the end of the first nine. Here too the special and unique character of this place is revealed. While the ninth hole would typically be closest to the clubhouse, at Beauvallon it is the furthest away! There’s

something of a classic, scottish links course about it and for this reason, green-fee players cannot play a nine-hole round.

No matter how many times we come here, we are always enthusiastic about the different requirements of the course.

We like the five Par 3 holes, which couldn’t be more different from each other. as a reward, you have the fantastic view over the Gulf of saint Tropez from almost everywhere.

The services for guest players changing rooms and sanitary facilities - is rather poor and suggests management assume that golfers are lodged in nearby accommodation (the golf club is centrally located to many great hotels).

The most beautiful time to play at Beauvallon is from the late afternoon into the evening as the sun sets slowly in the hinterland and Mediterranean sea is dazzling in a lulling Provençal light. as such, ‘late players’ - those arriving four hours before the sunset - can play for 60€. after the game, there are only more treasures to discover in the beautiful towns and villages of the region: saint Tropez, Port Grimaud, Gassin and Ramatuelle are all very close. 

Born in 1956 and a passionate golfer since 1992, raimund is a lover of France in all its forms: the people, the food and wine, the culture, and most importantly Provence and Côte d'azur.

GOLF CLUB DE BEAUVALLON Boulevard des Collines 83120, Sainte Maxime golf-club-debeauvallon.com

The course

118 hole Par 70 Lengths from various discounts: 5,557m white 5,305m yellow 4,844m blue 4,609m red Driving range, putting and chipping greens Clubhouse, restaurant and pro shop

The tariffs

1Green fee for 18 holes: 80€ Nine-hole rounds for green fee players not possible Fin de Journée tariff: 60€ Golf cart: 40€ electric caddy: 15€ Open all year

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le café De la Place An intimate evening in the hauteurs of Le Cannet By elsa CaRPeNteR

ulian Rivituso has been the owner of Le Café de la Place for four years since the tragic murder of his father, Joseph, a friend of many a celebrity, in 2013. since taking over the restaurant, Julian and his young and dynamic team have brought a new dynamic to the square that gives the restaurant its name.

I came across Le Café de la Place via Instagram and, after flickering through several colourful photos of its beautifully presented dishes and the quaint locale, placed the restaurant at the top of my list for a dinner out with friends in mid-February.

Tables are set up outside on the terrace and on the plaza – the restaurant occupies the majority of the square’s outdoor seating - but it is unfortunately too cold to dine outside on this evening. Nevertheless, it is easy to appreciate the beauty of the setting. stretching down to the coast with the greenery of the Les Fumades quartier to the left and views of the Var and the Esterel to the right, the panoramic balcony square possesses a tranquil and almost provincial atmosphere far removed from the bustle of Cannes.

Inside, a heavy velvet drape hangs above the entrance and matches the décor beyond of rough stone walls, antique-style light fittings and more crushed velvet curtains. It feels intimate and warm; there can’t be more than a dozen tables.

Julian spends several minutes at our table explaining the menu and making his recommendations. The salmon tartare marinated in lime with passion fruit and pickled vegetables (17€) catches my eye, but the four of us decide on sharing the fricassée of squid and chorizo served on squid ink risotto with a sweet pepper

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FOR ROMaNTIC EVENINGs OR DINNERs WITH CLOsE FRIENDs, La CaFé DE La PLaCE COMEs HIGHLy RECOMMENDED.

sauce as a starter (24€). It is perhaps the best dish of the night; luxurious and full-bodied, but also endlessly satisfying. For me, this is followed by a whole sea bass with basil mash, crunchy beets and a light sauce (32€).

I have never eaten bass in this way – perfectly sliced from head to tail along the dorsal fin and opened in a beautiful butterfly.

Other main courses ordered include the salmon poached in coconut milk (26€); the slow-cooked Iberian pork presa presented in a crescent moon with heritage vegetables, celery mousseline and a honey flower sauce (26€); and a veal chop that Julian lights up in a flaming sauce to serve (32€). For dessert, we jointly opt for the Café Gourmand – forever favourite as I get to sample all on offer – which features a soft pistachio-flavoured cake, a mille-feuille meringue with lemon and yuzu sorbet, and a heavily endowed rum baba (10€).

The restaurant’s chef, Ben, came to Le Café de la Place after spending several seasons working as a chef on board luxury super yachts in the region. His crew and guests would have eaten well; his plates are well considered and there is all the evidence of a skilled and creative chef. He’s currently in the process of designing a new seasonal menu, which guests can discover from March onwards.

I’ll certainly be returning to this Le Cannet address later in the year. Julian explains that during the spring and summer months, he hosts soirées in the restaurant and out on the square with live music and dancing. For romantic evenings or dinners with close friends, La Café de la Place comes highly recommended.   314 rue saint sauveur, le cannet

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when wine moves mountains A philosophy of tradition, preservation and protection of nature By susaNNe altweGeR-MINet

Photo dino masala stands at the edge of his vineyard, Which overlooks the olive grove that Was founded by his great grandfather © Susanne Altweger-Minet

Dino Masala from the picturesque medieval village of airole in the roya valley of Liguria had an unusual vision.

He wanted to slice 10 metres off the peak of a mountain to build his dream vineyard: a Trincea.

fter turning what feels like 1,000 serpentine bends, I arrive on a plateau at 580 metres above sea level on the Franco-Italian border of the Mercantour national park. Dino Masala has invited me to explore his vineyard with him as my personal guide. The view is breathtaking. On one side is the romantic airole, on the other side are imposing mountains. as we sat in this dramatic place, Dino explains his personal philosophy of his vineyard’s cultivation: preservation of traditions and the protection of the nature and landscape are paramount.

It goes without saying that there isn’t a chemical or pesticide in sight.

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From the excavated rocks gained by taking 10 metres off the mountain’s summit, Dino rebuilt 80,000sqm of dry-stone walling, terraces and walkways around the ancient dwelling. The vineyard has the look of an upside down amphitheatre.

“The vines need little,” says Dino. “They are cultivated and harvested according to the old traditions. The roots are sunk into the ground during planting and once a year they are raked by hand to remove surface roots thus become very deep rooted and can supply the vines with all the water and nutrients they need. Only on extremely hot summer days do they need extra watering. We fertilise with horse or goat dung - not cow because it encourages rot and insects. It’s a method that dates back to around 1200aD when the first Roccese wine was produced in Liguria.”

Caring for the authentic nature of the area is of prime importance to Dino. He sees his vineyard not only as a place for producing wine, but also as a habitat for a rich array for flora and fauna. He proudly points out characteristic Ligurian biodiversity such as medicinal plants and herbs, butterflies and bees, snails, snakes, partridges and even eagles.

Even in this glorious environment, the colours of the leaves cannot be truly described: vivacious reds with delicate speckles. Dino draws my attention to the different varietals that give Roccese wine its flavour. The name Roccese is not to be confused with Rossese

Photos almost all a trincea Wines are made in the traditional roccese Way © Susanne Altweger-Minet

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wine and comes from its special method of cultivation between rocks. He explains his work with such expertise that it is difficult to think of Dino as ever having done anything other than be a wine maker, but it wasn’t in fact until 2000 that he began cultivation. Prior to this he was a builder, although wine was always his passion. In 2013, Dino received the prestigious Gran Medaglia di Cangrande for his wine at the annual Vinitaly event. after visiting the vineyard, Dino invites me to his cantina where I learn more about the varietals grown there and their production. White, rosé and red wines are pressed in different qualities and quantities, but almost all of them are Roccese. The finer a Trincea wines are stored for two years in oak barrels - the special feature being that the barrels are washed thoroughly beforehand so as to avoid the oak becoming the dominant flavour. The bottles for other wines are similarly handled. Dino’s wooden barrels are marked simply with legno (wood) so it is worth taking a close look at the labels of the bottles.

The quality of his wines is convincing and Dino knows it. For him, excellence is all he asks and he has renounced the more familiar titles of D.O.C. and an organic seal in favour of a simpler label.

It isn’t surprising that he also offers a first class olive oil. Below his vineyard lies his olive grove, which his grandfather established with just one tree. Dino has also set up a museum on his estate dedicated to his village of airole, to which he has always remained faithful. The memory of the past and the structure of village life form the basis of his life’s work. Modesty and pride go hand in hand, he explains. “If you drink a glass of my wine, remember that you are helping to preserve the heritage of nature.”  if you would like to organise a visit to the estate or purchase dino’s wines, please call +39 (0)184 255503.

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The finest fritto misto on the coast

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la gioiosa

By PetRa Hall

Photos it’s no Wonder that la gioiosa has recently been chosen as a toP destination for sQuid dishes - luigia’s fritto misto is simPly suPerb. © DR

even in Liguria, it is no longer east to find a place with genuine local specialties. an exception is found, however, in restaurant La Gioiosa, which was established in 1967 and it sits above Finale Ligure in the province of Savona.

With much love for the cuisine of their homeland, Luigia and Flavio Monesiglio serve traditional Ligurian dishes with produce from their own garden and coast.

a Gioiosa was the dream of Luigia, who opened the quaint restaurant with her husband almost half a century years ago. Here on the road to the clifftop plateau of Le Manie, they occupy a paradisiacal spot with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, the town of Finale Ligure and the Varigotti headland - an area in which the Ligurian food culture has its roots.

While the years have passed by and Luigia is now an elderly woman, she is still in the kitchen preparing her signature ravioli and the finest fritto misto of the coast with the same unmistakeable passion she had in her youth. The butter-soft squid and fresh anchovies and prawns, which are very lightly fried, come more often than not from the nets of her cousin (one of the last fishermen of Finale Ligure). The focaccia, bread and crostata come straight from Luigia’s oven. Everything is handmade and dining here is an unforgettable pleasure.

Today it is her son, Flavio, who stands by her side. His friendly welcome and assistance in choosing from the delectable menu is well-appreciated by their guests; taking your pick is no simple undertaking as everything here is so good.

Their plentiful antipasti dish consists of a seafood salad with marinated anchovies, local prawn ceviche, stuffed zucchini, a vegetable tart and more for 13€. The first course is an unbeatable fresh trenette pasta with fresh anchovies, rabbit ragù ravioli or tripoline pasta with fresh vegetables from the garden and pesto (prices range from nine to 11€). If you can manage more, the fritto di pesce misto is an absolute must or try the totani a Giulienne aglio olio e peperoncino (squid with garlic, oil and chilli); both are 15€. La Gioiosa has recently been selected as a secret gourmet trip by a Milan-based restaurant guide for having the best squid dishes in Liguria. a homemade cream ice cream with figs from the garden or a shortcrust crostata cake with apricots and figs (each 5€) complete the heavenly meal. The prices of the wines - almost all of which are local in origin - range between 16 and 42€ the bottle. If the bottle isn’t finished, Flavio sends it home with you!

The La Gioiosa restaurant is open daily from mid-March to mid-November and also offers guest rooms with a panoramic view of the stunning locale. 

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Jacques Gantié’s REsTaURaNT RECOMMaNDaNTIONs jacques gantié is the author of the unique regional restaurant guide: guide gantié. it is available in french in hard copy and electronically in english and contains hundreds of great insider tips for dining in the south of france.

HOTeL rOYaL riviera

La Table du Royal at the Hôtel Royal Riviera truly is the French Riviera in spirit and style with views over a lush, Mediterranean garden and a sandy beach, the Baie des Fourmis and the Villa Kerylos. It’s chic yet discreet - a restaurant in a legendary hotel but none too over done or ostentatious.

The gastronomy provided here is the result of a trio of inspirations by general director of the hotel Bruno Mercadal and chefs Bruno Le Bolch and alain Parodi. Their cuisine is an expression of the seasons: oysters, sea urchin, octopus, wild crab, scallops, black cod, black truffles, seasonal vegetables and a dash of asian spice and flavour. Meat too has its place in the form of suckling pig and slow-cooked lamb shoulder. For your choice of wine, let head sommelier Thierry Bastard be your guide to the finest wines of the Côte d’azur and beyond.

Throughout the spring months, the lunch menu here is something to be savoured at just 39€ (except sundays and bank holidays). Currently on the menu is a blend of hearty dishes such as rare Rangers Valley skirt steak with wild mushrooms, spinach and pork cheek braised and diced with aged wine, polenta and citrus zests, and lighter winter Mediterranean-style plates like the sea bream with root vegetables, Noilly Prat vermouth creamy broth and shallots. Desserts are a heavenly choice of patisserie delights and fruity treats. For the health conscious, there are also vegetarian and gluten-free menus available for 63€. Other pre-set menus are between 63 and 95€. 3 avenue Jean Monnet saint Jean Cap Ferrat +33 (0)4 93 76 31 00 www.royal-riviera.com

sweeT seDucTion Joël Robuchon launches the Côte d’Azur’s first chocolate bar cclaimed chef and famous Monaco personality Joël Robuchon has launched a new gastronomic experience in the lobby of the Hôtel Métropole (a five star address that already houses three of the iconic chefs restaurants: La Table de Joël Robuchon, Odyssey and yoshi).

His new Bar à Chocolat follows the same luxurious theme of Robuchon’s other establishments and features a range of distant ingredients and far-flung flavours on its three-part menu.

Chocolate is a necessity and a daily requirement for the world’s most heavily Michelin-starred chef, who says he eats ‘four

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squares of 100% cocoa chocolate a day - it’s very good for the heart!’ From hot drinks to cocktails, Robuchon has dreamed up a world of cocoa exoticism with his chief confectioner Patrick Mesiano and head barman Mickaël Bellec, but it’s not a cheap one. a hot chocolate costs 15€ (three variations are available: Grand Celaya with cinnamon; a nutmeg, black peppercorn and ginger infusion; and a traditional chocolat chaud with a pistachio Chantilly cream) and cocktails are 29€ and include the likes of a Choco-Toffee Martini with Bailey’s, Vodka Grey Goose, crème fraîche and Valrhona Grand Celaya. 

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organic aDvenTures An afternoon at the studio of English artist Chris Cook in Antibes By elsa CaRPeNteR artists and sailors have long found sanctuary in the port of antibes. For Chris Cook, it was the yachting industry that first brought him here, but art that became his reason to stay.

ollecting driftwood from the shore after a storm and playing off science against art, English artist Chris Cook is a different breed of artist from the great masters who also once called antibes home.

He arrived in the city in 2000 after a decade of travels that had begun when Chris left his small town in Lincolnshire with a just backpack at the age of 17.

“I thought I was a bit of a Bob Dylan,” he laughs, “with my hat and guitar. I’m a big believer in listening to my elders and, following their advice, I promised myself I’d just have fun until I turned 30 and not worry about a car and a mortgage.”

Once in antibes, Chris found work doing sail yacht deliveries and assisting with maintenance and repair jobs in the port’s shipyard. although he enjoyed the manual tasks and working with his hands, the yachting life wasn’t for Chris.

“I wasn’t fulfilling my gift,” he says from his studio on avenue Tournelli, which is just a few minutes from the historic marina. “I’d felt a draw to art for most of my life and I was always making things; it was time for me to put my talent into practice.”

From his living room in an apartment in vieil antibes, Chris slowly worked towards his goal of becoming an artist.

“It was very hard to get going,” he explains, “and even though I’ve been working full time as an artist for about 10 years now, there’s still been the odd occasion when I’ve had to go back into the shipyard to make the money to keep me going.

In the early days, I did art shows all over France to try

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and get my name and art out there. you have to experiment with different ways of exhibiting your work and almost have to market yourself. It’s a bit of a contradiction for an artist - it can be difficult to talk about your work let alone yourself.”

When I visit Chris at his gallery in late January, there’s a painting in the far left corner of the brightly lit space that seems to stand apart from the others. It transpires that Chris hung it for the first time that morning and as we both stand to look at the latest addition, Chris asks my thoughts: “almost religious…

It reminds me of a lith or the standing stones I’ve seen on anglesey.”

“I don’t think I like it,” Chris says in return. “I mean, I did this morning when I hung it, but now I’ve changed my mind.”

Back in the studio, which sits behind the street-facing gallery, Chris explains the sometimes lengthy process from initial concept to final piece.

“I’ve found over the years that I have to divide my time accordingly. I tend to work intensively over a three week period then take a break and spend time outside in the nature. It’s important not to work continuously as you stop being able to see what you’re creating. One of the hardest things for an artist is never being able to see your work for the first time; you just see its imperfections. some paintings go on for two or three years! I’ll hang a piece on the wall for a year then go back and change it. a painting is never finished until has sold.” some of Chris’ creations never even make it to this stage: “If I don’t like how a painting is going, I scrape it all off and save the pieces. you never know, I might

“ONE OF THE HaRDEsT THINGs FOR aN aRTIsT Is NEVER BEING aBLE TO sEE yOUR WORK FOR THE FIRsT TIME.”

Photos “A PAINTING IS NEVER FINISHED UNTIL HAS SOLD,” SAYS CHRIS FROM HIS STUDIO IN ANTIBES © Elsa Carpenter

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be working on something in a year’s time and think, ‘ah! I wish I had…’ Nothing is ever thrown out or put in the bin.”

This ethos of recycling is something that permeates his work. sand from the beaches of antibes to soil from a friend’s garden, Chris tries to use organic and natural materials wherever he can to create his signature, textured layers. In recent years, seeds and spices have also made their way into his painting from cumin and coriander to poppy seeds: “White pepper has this beautiful, creamy colour, but it’s a nightmare to work with because I’m constantly sneezing!”

There are, however, some elements that Chris isn’t able to find in nature and he orders in (albeit after years of trying to produce them himself). The use of oxides - iron, copper and bronze - is one of the core themes in his work. The vibrant, exotic blues created with copper oxide, acids and Indian ink are particularly striking.

“If you look back at the history of art, the styles and trends are clearly defined by what artists had to hand and what they were affected by; like a comment of the mentality of the time. When I first started out, I was trying to define what it was I wanted my style to be. you can’t just make a painting, it has to come from somewhere. I guess my art is a reflection of mood and a shift towards something more organic and earthy.”

He has a deep connection with the outdoors and adventure; art isn’t Chris’ only passion. Just two years ago he discovered climbing as a way of combatting his fear of heights.

“Fear is what holds us back. Climbing is a physical and mental challenge and it’s taught me a lot about selfcontrol. I probably climb more than I work - from sunrise to sunset - but I think that’s where you really live life; out of your comfort zone. There’s so much to see in a hundred kilometre circle of antibes and I love adventure. some people only get to go on one adventure in their lives, but I go two or three times a week; wandering through the forests, getting lost and meeting different people along the way.”

Tucked away behind a door leading off from the main gallery space is a room Chris has built to exercise this love for climbing when he needs a break from working and searches a clearer mind. Three facades of the room are covered in bouldering walls with grips from floor to ceiling and overhangs suspended over mattresses. It’s easy to see that this room gets a lot of use and not only by Chris; he has eight-year-old twins who share in his love of climbing.

“I can’t wait to get to the studio in the morning and sometimes I can start at 5am, work until 1am the next morning and feel really good. For me, being here isn’t work; it’s absolute fun for the whole time.”  chris cook’s gallery can be found at 10 avenue tournelli in antibes. to organise a private viewing, please contract chris via his website christophercook.fr.

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en Toute intimité Musée Bonnard: what goes on behind closed doors By saRaH HYDe

L'œuvre d’art, un arrêt du temps,” wrote Pierre Bonnard and in this short phrase, he gives us one of the best perspectives from which to explore his work.

The Musée Bonnard opened in 2011 and is the sole museum in France dedicated to Bonnard, who lived quietly and modestly in Le Cannet at his villa, Le Bosquet, with his life partner and later wife Marthe until he died on 23rd January 1947.

Presented on all five floors of the museum and chronologically laid out, the best way to see this exhibition is to stop at the first floor - where there is an excellent presentation discussing the artist’s work in detail - before going to the top of the building and following the display downwards. The presentation explores Bonnard’s subtle use of perspective and peripheral vision, which gives Bonnard’s work that delicate hint of other worldliness that makes his compositions so beguiling.

On the top floor, we meet the young Bonnard in a series of pencil self portraits. His career began in Paris and much of his early work was commercial, producing illustrations for the famous Revue

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Blanche with a fellow Nabis movement painter Vuillard. Proust was another contributor to the magazine. Bonnard mastered printing and lithography, learning from Toulouse-Lautrec among others. He excelled as a print maker and this part of the exhibition really positions him in the context of his peers.

Further into the room, there are a number of posters and paintings as well as some really charming small drawings and prints of baby andré Bonnard, a relative, entitled 'Dodo, l’enfant do’, which give us our first real glimpse of Bonnard painting on an intimate scale.

This artist’s career can be discussed in terms of two distinct phases: before and after meeting Marthe de Melingy. Bonnard was 26 when he fatefully coincided with the beauty on a Paris street in 1893. Marthe told him she was 16 - she was actually 24 and called Maria - and he fell madly in love. Marthe became his muse, model and life partner, although curiously they did not marry until thirty years later.

The significance of this relationship is carefully explored on the fourth floor and it was remarkably romantic. The brilliant inclusion of photographs reveals just how good a photographer Bonnard was; there are some stunning photographs of Marthe sitting naked by a pool. Her figure is exquisite and if the camera is the artist’s eye, it gazes upon her with gentle admiration. In two of the photos, Bonnard has managed to include himself. The composition reflects Manet’s ‘Le Déjeuner sur l’Herbe' and these photos certainly challenge any misconceptions about the past being prudish or sexually uptight. Marthe’s nudity is direct, classical and tenderly observed, and, of course, the artist finds it delightful.

It becomes very clear that Bonnard loved to paint Marthe in a state of undress. In the bath, getting ready… she seems to have barely spent any time fully clothed. It is a little known fact that if she was standing, Bonnard always insisted in painting Marthe in heels to give a little lift to her ankles and offset her glorious figure. The paintings are kind, uninhibited and respectful. Interestingly - and despite the passing of time - Bonnard always represented Marthe as the young woman he met in the street in Paris, even after she’d entered her sixties. a sensitively faced man, Bonnard loved both women and cats, and you begin to wonder if he was good at making both types of animals purr. That he loved women with his eyes and through his work is obvious, and despite being a mild mannered and gentil man, everything suggests that he had quite an appetite for the opposite sex. Bonnard was tempted by other women and models, but he always returned to Marthe. In turn, Marthe became something of a recluse and preferred to spend her time at home in Le Bosquet with Bonnard there with her.

From the pictures, at least, you get the sense that home really was enough. In a way, this aspect of Bonnard’s work mirrors that of Paul Gauguin, an artist who had a significant influence on his work and

En Toute Intimité Until 23rd april 207 Open from 10am to 6pm entrance 5€

Far left photo l’atelier au bosQuet Top left photo le soleil couchant Left photo marthe: a vision in the garden Top photo the musée bonnard in le cannet

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whom he greatly admired. Gauguin travelled half way across the world to French Polynesia to find domestic happiness (in a hut where he painted nudes of his various native lovers) while Bonnard appears to have achieved the same happiness at home, in the bourgeois setting of Le Cannet.

Bonnard was a wonderful colourist: mimosa yellow, terracotta orange and bruised shades of purple. The move to the Côte d’azur brought glorious results and a wonderful explosion of colour and light onto canvas, which was expressed in the form of landscapes. Exploring Bonnard’s relationship with the Côte d’azur is pure joy. There is a delightful painting on loan from the Musée d’Orsay - ‘Le soleil Couchant’ - of the sunset falling onto the mountains behind Cannes In the last section of the exhibition, works by contemporary photographer Caroline Rem have been included. Commissioned for this exhibition by the museum, the artist uses some of Bonnard’s perspective techniques to produce an interesting series of photographs of the Le Bosquet villa and studio that was Bonnard’s home for over 20 years and the scene of so many of the artworks in this exhibition.

En Toute Intimité, currently on show at the Musée Bonnard in Le Cannet, is a rare treat. On a rainy day, the glowing colours and cozy interiors of the museum are particularly warming and visiting this exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about this artist. It is a brilliant antidote to the cold weather and you come away from this charming museum glowing. The elevation of the domestic and everyday into something special gives the viewer a real sense of being on the inside of an intimate, gentle and very loving relationship. an exhibition highly recommended for couples! 

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arT in anTibes An international event for connoisseurs By saRaH HYDe

hy bother travelling to London or Paris to look for antiques and works of art when the best of the art world is coming to antibes! as the sunshine returns and owners head down to visit their beloved yachts and prepare for Les Voiles d’antibes, the familiar white tents of the antibes art Fair will appear on the Esplanade du Pré des Pêcheurs.

Billed by the exhibitors as ‘this side of paradise’, the 45th antibes art Fair opens on 15th april and promises to be a bumper edition that’ll give local residents and visitors a chance to see a wide range of top quality antiques, contemporary works and brocante at close hand.

This year’s event will welcome more than 120 diverse exhibitors to the city, which has built up a reputation among dealers and gallerists, who reserve their most interesting pieces for its truly international market.

More that 20,000 people visited the art fair last year.

One of the best things about this event is that visiting is literally like travelling through time and you get to see all kinds of styles from many different époque. It is a great opportunity to explore your own taste, to juxtapose and mix up different eras, and, of course, to exchange information with the exhibitors who are

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Printemps des Arts in Monaco

decadence from all ages is on disPlay

15th april to 2nd May Open from 10.30am to 7.30pm entrance 10€

happy to share their knowledge and expertise.

The booths are so beautifully laid out, just looking at them is an education in the different stylistic periods: from antique furniture from the ancient Regime straight though to art Deco and contemporary pieces.

This is the kind of event where you could find the perfect chandelier for your marble kitchen or antique weighing scales as an accent accessory; a chair, globe and bookcase for your library or a gorgeous mirror for your drawing room or yacht. It is the perfect place to tease your visual senses and compare your artistic credentials with friends and family. If it all leaves you thirsty, there is a champagne bar and as well as day dreamers and lovers of beautiful things, dogs are welcome here too! 

The classical & The creaTive

By MIa COlleRaN

onaco’s annual Printemps des arts festival is due to begin on Friday 17th March and will run for three weeks until sunday 8th april. The festival, now in its 33rd year, is mainly dedicated to music; classical music in particular. The opening event of the festival is the Portrait Berlioz on 17th March, which will be performed in the Grimaldi Forum and conducted by swiss composer Michael Jarrell. On 19th March, there will be the annual ‘surprise trip in Monaco’ during which the public tour to different locations in Monaco and are treated to secret concerts en route. Every year, composers are invited to create music specifically for the festival and this year’s contributors include: Francesco Filidei, Ramon Lazkano, Patrick Marcland, Miroslav srnka and Michael Jarrell. There will also be a ‘Concept Piano’ weekend running from 24th until 26th March, which includes four concertos and one concert every day. The Printemps des arts festival doesn’t just

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focus on established musicians and composers however; it pays particular attention to the younger generation of musicians, giving many of them an allocated five minutes before concerts in order to perform self-composed work. There are masterclasses organised with some of the most talented soloists free of charge for students in the surrounding schools and there is a dedicated Journée des Conservatoires, which gives the public a chance to listen to the musical repertoire the students of the academy of Monaco and the colleges of music in the alpesMaritimes have studied throughout the year. The festival is also launching its very own radio station in 2017, which will run 24 hours a day and begin airing on 1st March. The radio station will have a variety of shows, notably the 12pm to 2pm slot, which will include recordings of concerts from the festival and interviews with friends and faithful listeners of the festival.   printempsdesarts.mc

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a Publicfacing conDucTor An interview with the new director of the Orchestre Régionale de Cannes Benjamin Levy was selected among 160 applicants for this coveted post.

He tells riviera insider’s editor-in-chief Petra Hall about his new, long-term contract and other exciting developments.

good qualities and personalities, and I had a wonderful connection with them right away.

The board of directors has chosen you, among other things, because of your openness to signing a long-term contract. Is not it scary at your age to settle for several years?

On the contrary, I prefer something durable. as a guest director, you often only spend a few days with an orchestra, which can be really frustrating. It is quite good to be the ‘beloved visitor’, but at some point you have to settle down.

cannes’ neW orchestral director benjamin levy © Jóhanna Ólafsdóttir

What are your plans for the orchestra? What will stay the same and what will change?

The great team, the joy of our work and the enthusiasm stays! What changes? The concert presentation. as the director of an orchestra, you always stand with your back to the audience, but I will also be turning around to explain the works we are performing. In addition, we will expand the repertoire of the orchestra with increased involvement of opera music and mix several styles. The link with the regional actors is to be strengthened. We would also like to motivate children and teenagers to visit our concerts through targeted performances.

Benjamin Levy, it was less than six months ago that you were chosen for the director’s post.

How are you feeling now after you’ve recovered from the first thrill of emotions?

I am very, very good and I am extremely positive about the future. Together with the whole team, I have thrown myself totally and enthusiastically into my work in order to set up an excellent season in a short time. There is really a lot to do!

Who are your favourite composers and what kind of music will be the main focus of your programme? you might as well ask me: Who do you love the most: your mother or your father? It’s just too difficult to answer! Certainly there will be no restrictions and no genre of music will dominate.

January was the first concert you had with the orchestra. What was your impression of the musicians and the audience? ah, the audience! They were very receptive and interested. They even laughed at my jokes. since the concert in January, many spectators have come to me and complimented my pedagogical approach. I had explained the structure of Beethoven's symphony.

I already played with the orchestra last september so it was not entirely new to me. The musicians have many

Besides the music, what are your other responsibilities?

It is very important to create fluid synergies between all departments: musicians, administration, sales, communication, programming… an orchestral director can not just do as he wants, we are effectively a small company and everyone needs to work together. It is also my job to meet partners and patrons, and be available to talk with the public and explain our work. I am very keen to get involved in all these areas! 

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2nd March monaco Club Vivanova The Côte d’azur’s leading expat and luxury networking club is hosting an exclusive fine jewellery and watch presentation with champagne degustation for its members. Boucheron. 6pm.

Reservations can be made at booking@ clubvivanova.com while non-members should head to the website to join Club Vivanova (membership 120€ per year). clubvivanova.com 4th March cannes Break the Floor an international dance competition with battles between solo artists and groups. south Korean Jinji Crew is returning to the event with hopes to defend their world title.

Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

8pm. From 10€. palaisdesfestivals.com 4th March Juan-les-Pins Classique à Juan The Orchestre Régional de Cannes Provence-Côte d’azur has teamed up with piano soloist Frank Braley for an evening of Beethoven. Palais des Congrès de Juan-les-Pins.

8.30pm. From 20€. antibesjuanlespins.com 5th March monaco simon Boccanegra opera Giuseppe Verdi’s simon Boccanegra, a prologue with three acts to an Italian libretto by Francesco Maria Piave. The choir of the Opéra et Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo will also perform. auditorium Rainier III. 5pm. From 20€. opera.mc

8th March monaco simon Boccanegra opera Giuseppe Verdi’s simon Boccanegra, a prologue with three acts to an Italian libretto by Francesco Maria Piave. The choir of the Opéra et Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo will also perform. auditorium Rainier III. 8pm. From 20€. opera.mc 11th March monaco Club Vivanova: 2017 Gala Join Club Vivanova, Fondation Prince albert II de Monaco, VIP partners, political ambassadors, distinguished business leaders and friends for a black-tie charity dinner at one of Monte Carlo’s leading luxury hotels: in the salle d’Or ballroom of the Fairmont.

Guests will enjoy a haute cuisine five-course dinner by a Meilleur Ouvrier de France chef with five internationally-acclaimed wines selected by chef sommelier Massimo sacco. The gala will also showcase selected luxury VIP partners along with a contemporary art exhibition including local and international artists and sculptors followed by a haute-couture fashion show and a jewellery and diamond presentation. a charity auction will be held with donations from our partners for the Fondation Prince albert II de Monaco and DJ Franco Jannone will provide the soundtrack to the party that is expected to go on late into the night. Fairmont Monte Carlo. 7pm.

165€. clubvivanova.com

11th to 12th March nice Paris-Nice Challenge The day before the professional riders arrive on the French Riviera, amateurs cyclists are invited to tackle the course on 11th March.

The final stage of the Paris-Nice race is set to be a gruelling event for riders of all experience, with an assault on the famous Col d’Èze for both sets. letour.fr 12th March monaco Monaco Run While the Riviera Challenge may be cancelled, there are plenty of other events still going ahead for this year’s Monaco Run: 10km run, Herculis 3km and 7km relay and the 5km Pink Ribbon Walk. monacorun.org 17th March cannes sympho New Jazz Enjoy the timeless works of great american jazz and blues artist Glenn Miller in a performance by sympho New Jazz under directorsaxophonist Jean-Christophe Di Costanzo. Théâtre Croisette.

8.30pm. 23€. palaisdesfestivals.com 17th March to 8th april monaco Printemps des arts Read more about this three-week music and culture festival taking place across the principality on page 70. printempsdesarts.mc 23rd March monaco the Barber of seville The opening night of this opera buffa in two acts by Gioachino Rossini

with an Italian libretto by Cesare sterbini will be a gala event. The choir of the Opéra et Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo will also perform. salle Garnier. 8pm. opera.mc 24th & 26th March nice ensemble Baroque de Nice a performance of Ten sonatas in Four Parts by Purcell. Chapelle du saint-suaire. 8.30pm (24th) and 4.30pm (26th). ensemblebaroquedenice.com 25th to 26th March valbonne Festival des Jardins a Mediterranean-themed gardening event organised annually by the société des Gens de Jardins Méditerranéens. Learn about diversification in the garden at the 28th edition. For amateurs and professionals. Place sophie-Laffitte, sophia antipolis. jardinsud.com 26th March monaco the Barber of seville The opening night of this opera buffa in two acts by Gioachino Rossini with an Italian libretto by Cesare sterbini will be a gala event. The choir of the Opéra et Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo will also perform. salle Garnier. 3pm. opera.mc 28th March monaco the Barber of seville The opening night of this opera buffa in two acts by Gioachino Rossini with an Italian libretto by Cesare sterbini will be a gala event. The choir of the Opéra et Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo will also perform. salle Garnier. 8pm. opera.mc 29th March mougins launch of the scène 55 The works of Beethoven are explored before the Orchrestre de Percussions blends with the Orchestre de Cannes for a colourful performance of the works of Moussorgski. a night for the eyes and ears! scène 55 (Chemin de Faissole).

8.30pm. 38€. scene55.fr 30th March monaco the Barber of seville The opening night of this opera buffa in two acts by Gioachino Rossini with an Italian libretto by Cesare

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sterbini will be a gala event. The choir of the Opéra et Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo will also perform. salle Garnier. 8pm. opera.mc 30th March to 8th april vence le Printemps des Nuits du sud In the run-up to Vence’s extraordinary Nuits du sud festival, which will be celebrating its 20th anniversary later this year, the town has decided to organise a spring, fringe festival. Music from all ages and genres. Place du Grand Jardin.

From 20€. vence-tourisme.fr 31st March nice FIM X-trial Championship Riders from around the world will be heading for Nice and the 2017 FIM XTrial Indoor Championship. Read more on page 56. Palais Nikaïa.

8.30pm. From 20€. nikaia.fr 1st april côte d’azur Festival des Jardins The first ever, month-long Festival des Jardins invites you to discover the natural beauty and botanical wonders of the region. a number of remarkably gardens are being opened up to the public: Jardin de la Villa Rothschild (Cannes), Jardin Biovès (Menton), Place du Petit Puy and Place de l'Evêché (Grasse), Jardin albert 1er (Nice) and Pinède Gould (antibes/Juan-les-Pins). Read more on pages 20-25. departement06.fr 2nd april grasse Bigreen Vtt a day of biking off-trail between saint-Vallier de Thiey and Grasse in an event co-organised by the UCC sport Event. Try your hand - and wheels - at the 40 or 50km route or watch mud-free from the sidelines. ucc-sportevent.com/bigreen 3rd to 6th april cannes MIPtV an event of global importance for the TV and entertainment industries.

Professionals and decision-makers from around the world will gather for four-day of meetings, conferences and round-table events. Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. all day. miptv.com

6th april monaco Hélène Grimaud recital a first for the Opéra de MonteCarlo, this co-production with the Festival Printemps des arts de Monte-Carlo will see a performance of classically-styled solo pianist Hélène Grimaud. salle Garnier. 8pm. opera.mc 13th to 17th april mandelieu les Nouvelles Vagues du Nautisme The famous secondhand boat show of Mandelieu La Napoule brings together over 350 preloved and preowned vessels of four to 26 metres from across the Mediterranean. On-land there is also an sUV and coupé exhibition for those who haven’t quite found their sea legs. Port de la Napoule.

10am to 7pm. Free. salondubateau.fr 14th to 16th april cannes International triathlon For the 4th edition of the event, the Cannes International Triathlon will offer a testing course for athletes departing from the famous Croisette: 2km swim in front of Palm Beach, 100km cycle encompassing parts of the Var and the alpes-Maritimes, and a 16km run along the seafront. cannes-internationaltriathlon.com 9th april nice Nice Running Day as long as you can run 2km there’s a course for you at the recently renamed Nice Running Day, from family runs to a 21.1km half marathon. nicerunningday.com 15th to 23rd april monaco Monte Carlo Rolex Masters One of the first major tennis tournaments of the year, the Monte Carlo Rolex Masters never fails to shine. Read more on page 56. Monte-Carlo Country Club. monte-carlorolexmasters.com 15th april to 2nd May antibes antibes art Fair From classical to contemporary, the antibes art Fair is a must-see destination for collectors. Read more on page 70. salon-antiquaires-antibes.com

17th april le-bar-sur-loup Fête de l'Oranger a traditional festival celebrating all things orange: blossoms, trees, fruits. among the events on the day are an orange jam competition, orange wine tastings, performances, exhibitions and guided tours of the town. Town centre. all day. lebarsurloup.fr 22nd april Juan-les-Pins Classique à Juan The Orchestre Régional de Cannes Provence-Côte d’azur under new director Benjamin Levy has teamed up with violin soloist solenne Païdassi for an evening of Tchaïkovski. Palais des Congrès de Juan-les-Pins. 8.30pm. From 20€. antibesjuanlespins.com 25th april cannes Flute and harp recital For an evening of romance and delicacy, duo Cécile Bontron (harp) and Florent Bontron (flute) perform Franz schubert, Louis spohr, antonBernhard Furstenau and others.

Théâtre alexandre III. 7pm. 15€. orchestre-cannes.com 28th & 30th april nice ensemble Baroque de Nice a performance of suites & Concertos by J.s. and C.P.E. Bach.

Eglise saint-François-de-Paule.

8.30pm (28th) and 4.30pm (30th). ensemblebaroquedenice.com 29th to 30th april falicon Fête de l’Oeillet a traditional event in the hills above Nice. Join the local community as they celebrate the carnation flower with floral parades, a singing competition and an art exhibition.

Town centre. 10am to 6pm. fete-oeillet.com 30th april eze Club Vivanova The Côte d’azur’s leading expat and luxury networking club is hosting a May Day and Russian Easter gourmet wine lunch with art show

by Oliver Hawkins and live jazz music. a champagne aperitif will be followed by a three course gourmet lunch complemented with premium New Zealand sliding Hill wines. Château de La Chèvre d’Or. 12.30pm. 90€. Reservations can be made at

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booking@clubvivanova.com and non-members can head to the website to join Club Vivanova (membership 120€ per year). clubvivanova.com 20th May Juan-les-Pins Classique à Juan The Orchestre Régional de Cannes Provence-Côte d’azur under director aurélien azan Zielinski has teamed up with soprano Ingrid Perruche for a diverse evening of classical music. Palais des Congrès de Juan-les-Pins. 8.30pm. From 20€. antibesjuanlespins.com

if you know of an event in the côte d’azur, monaco or italian riviera that you think riviera insider should be covering, please get in touch at rivierainsider@rivierapress.fr!

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comPetitions music & culture Win tickets to see performances by orchestre de cannes and the ensemble baroque de nice gourmet Win a dinner for two at the château le cagnard restaurant in haut-de-cagnes history Win a copy of the french riviera: a history by michael nelson events exclusively for riviera insider subscribers: free tickets to the top marques luxury lifestyle event in monaco visit the competitions section of our website for your chance to win

Bonne chance! riviera-press.fr/insider

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riviera Press’

artistic winter

renDez-vous In France and Monaco, Happy New Year wishes are sent right through until the end of January.

Following this tradition, Riviera Insider’s publishing house - Riviera Press - invited friends and business partners to the first of our events for 2017.

The location was unique. at the three-storey Opera Gallery in Monte Carlo, important guests were treated to a champagne reception, delicious wines from Domaine Rabiega, crystal clear waters by are Eau and a selection of sweet and savoury petits fours from the exclusive catering service a ROCa Gourmet. The true stars of the evening, however, were the many precious and original artworks by artists such as Picasso, Chagall and Botero. They captured the attention and imagination of those present, and offered plenty of conversation. another highlight of the evening was the Riviera Press draw for gifts such as a Fitlane subscription, a lunch at Château Le Cagnard and wines

from Domaine Rabiega. 

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an intimate party across three floors

Our bodyguard for the evening courtesy of artist Duane Hanson

Karine Balagny and Dominique Freulon at the reception

Opera Gallery in the heart of Monaco was the host location for our winter rendez-vous

The German councillor in Nice, Christiane Dinges-amiel, with James Rolland Francis Gianni, Director of the International school of Monaco, and his wife in conversation with Petra Hall

Representing the Grand HĂ´tel du Cap Ferrat: aurore Escrihuela, Public Relations Manager (l) and sandra Engel, Marketing Director

Michel Gomiz with Nathalie Pinto of the Grimaldi Forum and event organiser sylvie Rossel de Caro

Dominique Freulon, marketing, with Christophe Bors of yaCHTNEEDs

The director of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Bruno Henri-Rousseau, and his communications director audrey avenel were visibly impressed by the cultural ambience

Caterer a Roca pampered our guests with a delicious selection of delicacies

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L-R: RivieraZeit Editor aila stöckmann, Petra Hall and Riviera Insider Editor Elsa Carpenter

surrounded by beautiful women: Michel Gomiz, marketing, with (l-r) Jana Timofeeva of the Burma boutique, sylvie Lalouelle of the Loro Piana boutique, Monique Palmero, Director of the Piaget Monte Carlo boutique and Piaget’s ana Botanovic

Logistics specialist Michel Lemoigne and his wife

Tombola! François Dupuis was delighted to win a magnum from the Domaine Rabiega

James Rolland and perfumer aude Galouyë select another winner

a one year subscription for Fitlane went to ana Botanovic, Piaget Monte-Carlo

Club Vivanova’s Bradley Mitton won a culinary feast for two at Château Le Cagnard

sisters anne Charlotte and Claire Marie Mauboussin from the Océanide spa in Nice

Claire Favreau from the sonia Rykiel boutique in Nice with her husband (l) and Michel Gomiz

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Riviera Press Publisher sébastien Fraisse and Editor-in-Chief Petra Hall

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Didier Viltart, the director of the Opera Gallery and a wonderful host, is interviewed

Véronique Champion of the Nice Conservatory and Dominique Jaussein, Darkroom Gallery

Riviera Press’ Patrice saint Léger and James Rolland with Jean-sébastien Nève de Mévergnies, the sales manager for Domaine Rabiega vineyard in Draguignan Tony Vivarelli, azur Park, and his wife

a gallery isn’t as fun as a playground for children, but their parents are all smiles

stefanie Brandt from the language school Cefoliac

Kiss of appreciation: this guard by american, hyperrealist artist Duane Hanson was incredibly realistic

Founder of are Eau Marita Ohlsson and Cefoliac’s simona Ruggia (r)

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SOFTWARE Asteria integrates bespoke management solutions for businesses of all sizes and requirements. Asteria is a distributor of SAGE, PNM Soft, BPMN and Microsoft.

CLOUD SOLUTIONS IT Cloud Computing, Software as a Service, Desktop as a Service, secured and professional backup solutions, outsourcing, telecommunications and internet services: Asteria provides an answer to complex IT requests.

CONSULTING & BPM From advice giving and assistance to IT infrastructure and implementation, Asteria’s expertise is operational at all corporate levels.

Our goal: to add value to your services and products.

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Datacorp integrates bespoke management solutions for businesses of all sizes and requirements. Datacorp is a distributor of SAGE, PNM Soft, BPMN and Microsoft.

Cloud Computing, Software as a Service, Desktop as a Service, secured and professional backup solutions, outsourcing, telecommunications and internet services: Datacorp provides an answer to complex IT requests.

From advice giving and assistance to IT infrastructure and implementation, Datacorp’s expertise is operational at all corporate levels. Our goal: to add value to your services and products.

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france in 2017 A review of the changes that might affect you very new year heralds in a cross-section of changes to French society. From the little to the large, price hikes to legislative amendments, here Riviera Insider lists the one you should be aware of.

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work & taxation Minimum wage: For 2017, the sMIC will be increasing, but the growth is so small that it only equates to 11€ a month for those on fulltime contracts: a nine cent hop from 9.67€ per hour to 9.76€. after tax, this will mean minimum wage workers will be taking home 1,153€ a month.

Electronic payslips: Bid au revoir to paper payslips. This year, employers will send payslips electronically unless paper versions are specifically requested by employees.

Three months of unpaid leave for helping the elderly or disabled: In 2017, workers are permitted to take up to three months off work

(unpaid) to care for the elderly or a disabled person. No proof of family link is required to provide assistance or apply of the time off.

Turn your phone off: The French government has introduced a law to protect employees in companies with over 50 staff members from the overuse of their phones outside of the office. Employees can now negotiate with their employers to define when they can ‘turn off’ from office life.

Help for vulnerable young people: People between 16 and 25 and in a ‘precarious’ situation will be able to apply for the garantie jeune, which is financial assistance of 460€ a month as well as support in accessing training and the jobs market.

Tax credits for pensioners: If you’re retired and have someone in your employ at home, those expenses will provide for a tax credit in 2018.

Terrorism tax: a French tax aimed at raising funds for victims of terror attacks is increasing from

4.30€ to 5.90€. The tax is levied on insurance policies.

Rising prices Fuel prices: Households should be aware of an average 5% increase in gas prices. The cost of a litre of diesel will also be rising by one cent, but petrol prices are expected to fall by the same amount.

Bank charges: There is a large range in bank charges across France’s banking institutions and types of account so it is advised to check directly with your bank for comprehensive information on how this could affect you. some are increasing by as much as 13% in 2017!

Health Free doctors appointments: For the first ten months of 2017, pregnant woman and those with long-term illnesses won’t be asked to pay upfront for a doctors appointment.

From November onwards, this will also apply to all other patients. It is also worth noting that the cost of an appointment will be rising from 23€ to 25€.

Organ donation: French citizens are now automatically considered to be an organ donor from this year forwards. People can opt out of the register.

Obligatory helmets for children: any child under the age of 12 must wear a helmet when riding their bike or face a fine of 90€.

Cigarettes: all cigarette packing must now be plain and any companies caught flouting regulations will have their products confiscated from tabacs.

Family an end to smacking: although it is a symbolic law (parents found guilty of smacking their children won’t face disciplines), France has banned ‘all cruel, degrading or humiliating treatment including any recourse to corporal punishment’.

No judges for amicable divorces: For straightforward and amicable divorces, separating couples will be able to sign a divorce contract in the presence of their lawyers and registered by a notary instead of having to go through a divorce judge.

Pollution Plastic bags: They left the checkouts of French supermarkets back in summer 2016, but now plastic bags have been removed from the fruit and vegetable areas too. supermarkets can still use bags, but now they must be made from a biodegradable substance. 

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baD Driving PACA drivers ranked worst in France t’s probably one of the biggest gripes expats have against their French contemporaries: bad driving. From a lack of respect for other road users to downright safety concerns, there’s plenty we can find to moan about, but curiously, while the French feel the same as most of us do about each other, barely any of them are willing to admit any guilt on their part… a read of the new driving behaviour study by IPsOs offers a similar experience to driving on the roads of the French Riviera; you’re shocked, confused and straight up concerned. Nine out of 10 French drivers said they have felt scared of another driver’s behaviour in the last 12 months and drivers in the PaCa region are the worst.

They languish at the bottom of the table when it comes to safety rankings from the rest of France; just 3% of those interviewed said drivers in this region are the most responsible on the road while 51% said they were the least responsible.

Looking inwards, PaCa drivers consider themselves to be the safest in the country.

94% of PaCa drivers had something negative to say about their fellow drivers irresponsible, dangerous, stressed or aggressive making them the most critical in the country, but only 23% used negative terminology when describing their own driving.

92% of PaCa drivers admitted to speeding; 84% said they frequently failed to respect safety distances (more than three quarters of people didn’t

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know that a vehicle travelling at 130km/h needs at least 170m to come to a safe stop); 70% said they hurled insults at other drivers; 62% said they forget to slow down when passing maintenance workers; 60% said they forget to use their indicators; 55% said they used the horn excessively against drivers that annoyed them; 37% admitted tail-gating; 31% said they hogged the middle lane of the motorway; 16% said they’d get out of the car to ‘explain’ themselves to another driver; and an incredible 14% said they read the newspaper or other paper document while driving.

While road deaths are going down in France, the number of people nationally who admitted drink driving has risen by 1% to 17% despite over six out of 10 saying drinking under the influence is the biggest cause of driving-related deaths. On average, French drivers put the keys down after 2.5 glasses of wine (two glasses is the national limit).

With regards to expats, PaCa drivers believe the most responsible of foreign drivers to be the swedish (35%) followed by the Germans (34%), the British (10%) and the Dutch (8%). Italians are considered to be the most irresponsible drivers (39%). 

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Pink ribbon walk Monaco wears pink n sunday 12th March, the fifth annual Pink Ribbon o Walk will take place in Monaco. supporting breast cancer victims and raising awareness on the methods of early breast cancer detection are at the centre of the association’s work, and the walk will involve hundreds of women, men and children dressed in the signature pink tshirts.

“Pink Ribbon Monaco aims to raise awareness on methods of early breast cancer detection and prevention through various campaigns and events,” say organizers. “Pink Ribbon Monaco works closely with medical professionals to provide assistance and support when and where it is needed. With the backing and guidance of the Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace, we will target the areas in need of assistance. Our breast cancer awareness campaigns aim to educate the general public on prevention and early detection, support patients and celebrate life to the fullest while promoting well-being and a healthy lifestyle!”

Participants in the walk can collect their bib, on which can be written messages of support to a person or people whose courage and strength has inspired you, as

well as the t-shirt on the two days prior to the race at the Running Expo at the stade Louis II. The five kilometer walk passes by numerous landmarks in the principality such as the Palais Princier and the stade Louis II. It begins at 10am on the esplanade of the Port Hercule in the centre of Monaco. Registration can be completed online at pinkribbon.mc and the team has said they will continue to accept registrations right up until the start of the walk. Children’s registrations are free (under 13) while an adult registration costs 30€. The money raised will towards scientific research at the Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace in Monaco as well as the Centre Lacassagne in Nice. 

10% tax on foreign workers Le Pen threatens contract tax for non-national workers residential candidate and leader of the Front National P Marine Le Pen has pledged to introduce a new tax on foreign workers, including Brits and Europeans., if she wins the French presidential election on 7th May. The far-right politician says the 10% tax will force employers to prioritise French workers while plugging the country’s welfare system.

The concept, which was first touted

by Le Pen in early February, would make employers who hire workers from outside of France pay a tax worth 10% of the salary paid to the employee.

“We will apply national priority on employment through an additional tax on all new contracts for foreign employees,” Ms Le Pen told Le Monde newspaper, adding, “The income from that [tax] would pay for unemployment benefit.”

Her second-in-command, Florian Philippot, has since clarified that ‘foreign’ applies to non-nationals, including the British and people from other European Union countries. "alternatively, [an employer] can hire a French national and avoid having to pay the tax," Philippot said in an interview with RTL radio. 

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 EXPaT FOCUs

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kim wooDeY

Publishing director sEBasTIEN FRaIssE s.fraisse@riviera-press.fr

well as alongside other trainers. I cover all aspects of the GUEsT programme, which was created to provide a clearly defined career development path for interior crew.

It’s similar to what the deck crew have via the Maritime and Coastguard agency (MCa) certification. I offer training on interior service and housekeeping from introductory to advanced level, and will soon be offering food hygiene courses as well as the Pya Management and Leadership course too. I also provide bespoke onboard training specifically tailored to suit the individual needs of a particular yacht.

Often interior crew find themselves working in roles for which they have had little or no training. This can leave them wondering if they are doing things correctly. structured training helps to provide knowledge, confidence and a greater sense of job satisfaction.

© Stuart Pearce

South African Kim Woodey, an independent yacht trainer, shares her story of how she fell in love with the region after just one night in Nice 15 years ago. hat first brought you to w the French Riviera?

Back in 2002, I came out to visit a former student while I was working as a teacher in London. as the aeroplane came in low over the old town of Nice, I fell in love with the burnt-brown rooftops and winding streets. I was only there for one summer’s night, but I knew that one day I would live there. as I returned to London, I had no idea how it would happen, I only knew that it was going to happen!

Four years after that fateful visit, I decided to join the yachting industry and this time found myself in antibes, where I fell even more in love. I always worked on boats that travelled all over the world so I would only be a visitor on the French Riviera for a few days at a time over the following nine years. Whenever I came back,

I saw the same friends who were living here and it really felt like home. When the time came, I decided to settle in antibes in a small apartment near the salis beach. It has been amazing to be on the other side! I am no longer racing through the checkout at Carrefour with five shopping trollies like during my days working on a yacht and I get to enjoy a glass of rosé on the beach at the end of the day.

You’ve recently started your own training business. What kind of services do you offer and to whom?

Having worked as a teacher prior to yachting, it was an easy choice to combine my previous experience with the skill set I built up during my time at sea. I started my yachting career as a junior stewardess and working my way up to chief stewardess and, finally, purser. I experienced first-hand what worked and what didn’t. I have always enjoyed training and find it incredibly rewarding helping people realise how much they are capable of and how to become better at what they do.

I am a Pya GUEsT accredited trainer and work independently as

When you’re not busy working, where do you like to spend your time on the Côte d’Azur?

I adore exploring the French Riviera so I often hop in my car and drive somewhere that I’ve never been to before to see what I can find. some of my best finds have been up in the mountains and the old town of Biot is always charming.

There is also an amazing coffee shop on Cap Ferrat that is great for a sunday morning peoplewatching!

managing director JaMEs ROLLaND j.rolland@riviera-press.fr editor-in-chief PETRa HaLL p.hall@riviera-press.fr editor ELsa CaRPENTER e.carpenter@riviera-press.fr creative director VINCENT aRTUs vincent.artus@wanadoo.fr advertising & PR KaRINE BaLaGNy Tel: +33 (0)4 97 00 11 29 marketing@riviera-press.fr advertising & PR DOMINIQUE FREULON Tel: +33 (0)4 97 00 11 22 d.freulon@riviera-press.fr contributors sarah Hyde, Mia Colleran aila stöckmann, Julian Nundy, Peter Bausch, susanne altweger-Minet, Raimund Theobald secretary CaROLE HEBERT contact@riviera-press.fr distribution sUPERyaCHT DIsTRIBUTION Manuscripts and photos will not be returned unless previously agreed. articles do not represent the opinion of the Editor. The publishing house is not responsible for the correct contents of ads. © 2017 - by Riviera Press s.a.r.l.

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What are your tips for follow expats looking to make the most out of the region?

No matter how busy you are with your work or job, take time to look around and realise where you are.

There are so many exciting things happening up and down the coast all the time; make time to go out and see the local markets or festivals, sample the produce, have dinner picnics on the beach with friends, and get out there and search for new places. It doesn’t have to be a whole day, even a half hour or so to give you a glimpse of the local culture hiding all around us!

How can prospective students contact you? anyone who has any questions or would like to know further information is welcome to contact me at: KDwtraining@outlook.com. 

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