Latest Local News in Cannes 2024
Read the latest news from Cannes in 2024
Thursday 31 October
Make the most of today - gloriously warm sunny autumn day.
Rest of week looking good but a bit cooler sadly.
Make the most of today - gloriously warm sunny autumn day.
Rest of week looking good but a bit cooler sadly.
Wednesday 30 October
Avoid the French brand Petit Navire tins of tuna - they contain 13 times the legal limit of mercury for sardines and four times that for fresh tuna. Two consumer groups tested 148 cans from across the EU.
Tuna is the most widely consumed fish in Europe. The consumer groups are calling for stricter limits of 0.3mg pr kg rule“
Avoid the French brand Petit Navire tins of tuna - they contain 13 times the legal limit of mercury for sardines and four times that for fresh tuna. Two consumer groups tested 148 cans from across the EU.
Tuna is the most widely consumed fish in Europe. The consumer groups are calling for stricter limits of 0.3mg pr kg rule“
Monday 28 October
From 30 October to 7 November Cannes celebrates the life of Winston Churchill who was born 150 years ago. He was a well known amateur painter and there is an exhibition of his work at the Miramar. He took time out from wars and tumultuous political events to relax on the Cote d'Azur. Two films will also be shown on 1 and 7 November
From 30 October to 7 November Cannes celebrates the life of Winston Churchill who was born 150 years ago. He was a well known amateur painter and there is an exhibition of his work at the Miramar. He took time out from wars and tumultuous political events to relax on the Cote d'Azur. Two films will also be shown on 1 and 7 November
Saturday 26 October
Remember to turn your clocks back
tonight one hour
Friday 11 October
Cannes is known for its walk of fame with the handprints of film stars but did you know it has a Maritime walk of fame celebrating sailors? The latest to join is Francois Gabart and it can be seen at Port Canto. Cannes is proud of it being a sailing and sea sports capital.
Cannes is known for its walk of fame with the handprints of film stars but did you know it has a Maritime walk of fame celebrating sailors? The latest to join is Francois Gabart and it can be seen at Port Canto. Cannes is proud of it being a sailing and sea sports capital.
Thursday 10 October
OMG (Oh my God) the price of a croissant is about to go up. This is due to the wholesale price rise of butter by 40% this year. It is caused by viral diseases in French cows leading to a shortfall in milk production. Butter will also rise in supermarkets.
OMG (Oh my God) the price of a croissant is about to go up. This is due to the wholesale price rise of butter by 40% this year. It is caused by viral diseases in French cows leading to a shortfall in milk production. Butter will also rise in supermarkets.
Wednesday 9 October
At dawn today two earthquakes were recorded 20km off the coast of Nice at a depth of 3km. The largest registered 2.9 and happened at 5.54am and was felt all the way to St Tropez It was an aftershock to another located in the same place an hour earlier, registering 2.3 m.
At dawn today two earthquakes were recorded 20km off the coast of Nice at a depth of 3km. The largest registered 2.9 and happened at 5.54am and was felt all the way to St Tropez It was an aftershock to another located in the same place an hour earlier, registering 2.3 m.
Tuesday 8 October
Healthy life expectancy is not the same as life expectancy. Healthy life refers to the number of years someone lives without mobility issues, disability, or chronic disease. In France this is 64.4 years. Life expectancy data last year was 85.75 for women and 80.03 for men. Similar figures for UK are 62.5 and for life expectancy (2022 data) 82.6 for women and 78.6 for men.
Healthy life expectancy is not the same as life expectancy. Healthy life refers to the number of years someone lives without mobility issues, disability, or chronic disease. In France this is 64.4 years. Life expectancy data last year was 85.75 for women and 80.03 for men. Similar figures for UK are 62.5 and for life expectancy (2022 data) 82.6 for women and 78.6 for men.
Monday 7 October - storms & flood warning tonight
There are plans to triple the solidarity tax on airfares as part of the French government's plan to cut 40b euros and raise 20b in taxes in order to reduce the public debt. The tax on flights from Nice to London will rise from 7.51 euros to 42 for economy and 100 for business class. This should kill off tourism for next year. It will be announced 10 October and has to be passed by both houses of Parliament.
There are plans to triple the solidarity tax on airfares as part of the French government's plan to cut 40b euros and raise 20b in taxes in order to reduce the public debt. The tax on flights from Nice to London will rise from 7.51 euros to 42 for economy and 100 for business class. This should kill off tourism for next year. It will be announced 10 October and has to be passed by both houses of Parliament.
Thursday 3 October - storms and flooding from 3pm till tomorrow morning
This weekend you plan your next holiday by visiting the Tourism Fair at the Canopy by Hilton hotel in Cannes. One hundred tourism professionals will be on hand to offer tailor made as well as off the peg holidays anywhere in the world and to suit all budgets.
This weekend you plan your next holiday by visiting the Tourism Fair at the Canopy by Hilton hotel in Cannes. One hundred tourism professionals will be on hand to offer tailor made as well as off the peg holidays anywhere in the world and to suit all budgets.
Friday 27 September
The sun is out so head to the bd Midi to watch the ballet at sea which is the Royal Regattas. Just a couple of days left and you can visit some of these magnificent classic yachts moored at the Old Port.
The sun is out so head to the bd Midi to watch the ballet at sea which is the Royal Regattas. Just a couple of days left and you can visit some of these magnificent classic yachts moored at the Old Port.
Thursday 26 September
The European Space Agency through its Plato mission will be searching for a "second earth". The Plato satellite is being built in part at Thales Alenia Space in Cannes. It will be launched in December 2026 from Guyana aboard an Ariane rocket. It will be searching for exoplanets similar to ours that can sustain life. Although nearly 6,000 such planets have already been identified, none meets all requirements for life.
The European Space Agency through its Plato mission will be searching for a "second earth". The Plato satellite is being built in part at Thales Alenia Space in Cannes. It will be launched in December 2026 from Guyana aboard an Ariane rocket. It will be searching for exoplanets similar to ours that can sustain life. Although nearly 6,000 such planets have already been identified, none meets all requirements for life.
Wednesday 25 September
Following the storms, Cannes has has launched a mosquito and rodent control campaign, especially for the Republique area of the town. The heavy rainfall brought these pests to the surface. They are carriers of serious disease
Following the storms, Cannes has has launched a mosquito and rodent control campaign, especially for the Republique area of the town. The heavy rainfall brought these pests to the surface. They are carriers of serious disease
Tuesday 24 September
Yesterday morning's violent storm caused streets in Cannes to be flooded and cars and rubbish to be washed away. Impressive images led the TV news bulletins. Despite yellow alert warnings for the Alpes Maritimes, the mayor of Cannes complained he had not been warned of any potential flooding for Cannes from French Meteo. A row also erupted when the new minister for Ecology said it was the fault of "soil waterproofing" in densely occupied towns and added "50mm of water is not Niagara Falls". Ouch. It took Prime Minister Barnier to calm matters after he telephoned the Mayor, David Lisnard.
Yesterday morning's violent storm caused streets in Cannes to be flooded and cars and rubbish to be washed away. Impressive images led the TV news bulletins. Despite yellow alert warnings for the Alpes Maritimes, the mayor of Cannes complained he had not been warned of any potential flooding for Cannes from French Meteo. A row also erupted when the new minister for Ecology said it was the fault of "soil waterproofing" in densely occupied towns and added "50mm of water is not Niagara Falls". Ouch. It took Prime Minister Barnier to calm matters after he telephoned the Mayor, David Lisnard.
Monday 16 September
If you thought you felt the earth move on Saturday evening... you did. A rare 4.3 magnitude earthquake hit at 8.47pm. Its epicentre was 90 km south east of Cannes. While there was no material damage it was felt all along the coast to Nice. If its epicentre had been on land there would have been considerable damage to buildings.
If you thought you felt the earth move on Saturday evening... you did. A rare 4.3 magnitude earthquake hit at 8.47pm. Its epicentre was 90 km south east of Cannes. While there was no material damage it was felt all along the coast to Nice. If its epicentre had been on land there would have been considerable damage to buildings.
Friday 13 September
Staff at EasyJet France will officially go on strike from Monday with no end date given. It is not yet known what the impact on flights will be so you will need to keep on eye out for information from EasyJet if flying with them during the next few weeks.
Staff at EasyJet France will officially go on strike from Monday with no end date given. It is not yet known what the impact on flights will be so you will need to keep on eye out for information from EasyJet if flying with them during the next few weeks.
Wednesday 11 September
Major works on the railways between Nice and Ventimiglia, Italy will start 15 September and last 10 months at a cost of 20m euros. Except on Friday and Saturday evenings, no trains in either direction will run between 9pm and 6am. All train services are affected. Works will include installation of new electrical equipment, vital work on the tunnel by Eze station and improved accessibility for the disabled at Villefranche sur Mer.
Major works on the railways between Nice and Ventimiglia, Italy will start 15 September and last 10 months at a cost of 20m euros. Except on Friday and Saturday evenings, no trains in either direction will run between 9pm and 6am. All train services are affected. Works will include installation of new electrical equipment, vital work on the tunnel by Eze station and improved accessibility for the disabled at Villefranche sur Mer.
Tuesday 10 September
The largest in-water boat show in Europe opens today in Cannes. There are 700 boats across the Old Port (left) and Port Canto with free ferries running between the two. New this year is the Power Boat Marina at Port Canto where lots of activities will take place from 5 - 7pm. The nautical toys exhibitors offer a 45 minute floating display from 5pm.
The largest in-water boat show in Europe opens today in Cannes. There are 700 boats across the Old Port (left) and Port Canto with free ferries running between the two. New this year is the Power Boat Marina at Port Canto where lots of activities will take place from 5 - 7pm. The nautical toys exhibitors offer a 45 minute floating display from 5pm.
Monday 9 September
A French consumer group has tested 24 supermarket olive oils to find the best. And the winner is Primadonna extra virgin olive oil from Lidl which costs just 7.99 euros. It was found to be rich in antioxidants, and outperformed several more expensive brands in terms of health and quality.
A French consumer group has tested 24 supermarket olive oils to find the best. And the winner is Primadonna extra virgin olive oil from Lidl which costs just 7.99 euros. It was found to be rich in antioxidants, and outperformed several more expensive brands in terms of health and quality.
Friday 6 September
September in Cannes is all about the pleasures of life on the water. It kicks off tomorrow with the Paddle Festival. Next week (10 -15 Sept) is the fabulous Cannes Boat Show - see www.cannesyachtingfestival.com for full details. And the Royal Regattas is 23-28 Sept.
September in Cannes is all about the pleasures of life on the water. It kicks off tomorrow with the Paddle Festival. Next week (10 -15 Sept) is the fabulous Cannes Boat Show - see www.cannesyachtingfestival.com for full details. And the Royal Regattas is 23-28 Sept.
Thursday 5 September
The new rules on luggage on the TGV and Intercites trains comes into force on 15 September. If you get it wrong you can be fined 50 euros. You are allowed two suitcases 70x90x50cm in the luggage racks and hand luggage 40x30x15cm. All luggage has to be labelled. In addition passengers are allowed free of charge a musical instrument, a pram or a pair of skis. Bikes cost 10 euros. Luggage restrictions on Ouigo trains already in force.
The new rules on luggage on the TGV and Intercites trains comes into force on 15 September. If you get it wrong you can be fined 50 euros. You are allowed two suitcases 70x90x50cm in the luggage racks and hand luggage 40x30x15cm. All luggage has to be labelled. In addition passengers are allowed free of charge a musical instrument, a pram or a pair of skis. Bikes cost 10 euros. Luggage restrictions on Ouigo trains already in force.
Tuesday 3 September
There are still several daily guided tours of the Fort Royal until the end of September. This historical tour takes you through the different periods of construction of the fort, the operation of the state prison created by Louis XIV, the life of its famous prisoners and the enigma of the famous Iron Mask. You need to take the ferry to get to the island. Full info from the tourist office at the Palais.
There are still several daily guided tours of the Fort Royal until the end of September. This historical tour takes you through the different periods of construction of the fort, the operation of the state prison created by Louis XIV, the life of its famous prisoners and the enigma of the famous Iron Mask. You need to take the ferry to get to the island. Full info from the tourist office at the Palais.
Monday 2 September
There are two yellow weather warnings out today: one for thunderstorms from midday to 8pm and the other for a heatwave until 10pm. Looks like the summer weather has broken though. There will be rain most days this week at various times and temperatures on Thursday will drop from 31 to 27 degrees.
There are two yellow weather warnings out today: one for thunderstorms from midday to 8pm and the other for a heatwave until 10pm. Looks like the summer weather has broken though. There will be rain most days this week at various times and temperatures on Thursday will drop from 31 to 27 degrees.
Monday 26 August
The summer fireworks in Cannes are in fact one of the world's most prestigious competitions: the Cannes Pyrotechnic Art Festival. This year's winner was the English company Sirotechnics with a show called "It's written in the Stars" on 7 August.
The summer fireworks in Cannes are in fact one of the world's most prestigious competitions: the Cannes Pyrotechnic Art Festival. This year's winner was the English company Sirotechnics with a show called "It's written in the Stars" on 7 August.
Friday 23 August
It's a busy few days coming up starting today with the launch of the 3-day Suquet Arts Festival from 3pm till 11pm. WWll enthusiasts can visit the display of US army vehicles on the Pantiero frpm today. This will be followed tomorrow by a parade through the town in celebration of the liberation of Cannes 80 years ago. And the last of the fireworks takes place at 10pm in the Bay of Cannes. Have a fun weekend.
It's a busy few days coming up starting today with the launch of the 3-day Suquet Arts Festival from 3pm till 11pm. WWll enthusiasts can visit the display of US army vehicles on the Pantiero frpm today. This will be followed tomorrow by a parade through the town in celebration of the liberation of Cannes 80 years ago. And the last of the fireworks takes place at 10pm in the Bay of Cannes. Have a fun weekend.
Thursday 22 August
Water skiing was invented in Juan les Pins 92 years ago. It was 3 August and Norwegian snow skier Emil Petersen was being dared by a local friend from Antibes to ski on water. Emil donned a pair of three meter skis and, towed by a motor boat, he crossed the bay... and the rest is history, as they say. In Juan even Santa arrives on water skis.
Water skiing was invented in Juan les Pins 92 years ago. It was 3 August and Norwegian snow skier Emil Petersen was being dared by a local friend from Antibes to ski on water. Emil donned a pair of three meter skis and, towed by a motor boat, he crossed the bay... and the rest is history, as they say. In Juan even Santa arrives on water skis.
Wednesday 21 August
The EU has at last announced the date of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) for the Schengen area: 10 November this year. It is claimed the system will eventually speed up border checks as passport stamping ends. Due to the fingerprint, photo and biometrics required it should prevent terrorists, criminals and spies entering using fake passports. British, US and Australian tourists, for example, will need to apply to enter France for all short stays.
The EU has at last announced the date of the new Entry/Exit System (EES) for the Schengen area: 10 November this year. It is claimed the system will eventually speed up border checks as passport stamping ends. Due to the fingerprint, photo and biometrics required it should prevent terrorists, criminals and spies entering using fake passports. British, US and Australian tourists, for example, will need to apply to enter France for all short stays.
Monday 19 August
Cannes is regarded as the summer capital of Bling but despite having more cameras per head of population in all of France, it attracts top end thieves. So take care if you are in luxury villas or flats, you can be targeted. Also be careful about wearing expensive watches... and thieves know the difference between a knock-off and a real Hermes bag.
Cannes is regarded as the summer capital of Bling but despite having more cameras per head of population in all of France, it attracts top end thieves. So take care if you are in luxury villas or flats, you can be targeted. Also be careful about wearing expensive watches... and thieves know the difference between a knock-off and a real Hermes bag.
Friday 16 August
Yesterday's commemoration of the Provence landings 80 years ago had to be curtailed due to the storms. President Macron was in St Raphael with a host of dignitaries but the re-enactment of the landings were cancelled. About 100,000 Allied soldiers from US, UK and Canada landed on the beaches to liberate Provence. These were a spearhead for a further 250,000 soldiers from Africa, French colonies of the Pacific and West Indies and the Free French Army, as well as soldiers from Corsica. They went on to liberate Marseille and Toulon.
Yesterday's commemoration of the Provence landings 80 years ago had to be curtailed due to the storms. President Macron was in St Raphael with a host of dignitaries but the re-enactment of the landings were cancelled. About 100,000 Allied soldiers from US, UK and Canada landed on the beaches to liberate Provence. These were a spearhead for a further 250,000 soldiers from Africa, French colonies of the Pacific and West Indies and the Free French Army, as well as soldiers from Corsica. They went on to liberate Marseille and Toulon.
Thursday 15 August - Bank Holiday
At last the heatwave has broken. Storms overnight and the rest of the day will see temperatures drop to 29 today and the overnight temperature is predicted to be 23 deg.
Sun and cloud expected tomorrow
At last the heatwave has broken. Storms overnight and the rest of the day will see temperatures drop to 29 today and the overnight temperature is predicted to be 23 deg.
Sun and cloud expected tomorrow
Wednesday 14 August
FAMM, the museum of women artists, in Mougins village offers reduced prices early evenings from Friday. Between 6 - 8pm everyday you can get a 30% reduction... and stay cool in this air conditioned building.
FAMM, the museum of women artists, in Mougins village offers reduced prices early evenings from Friday. Between 6 - 8pm everyday you can get a 30% reduction... and stay cool in this air conditioned building.
Tuesday 13 August
Time to prepare for the three days and nights of the Electro Plages, 16 - 18 August. Get out the ear plugs, avoid bars and restaurants near the beach and Palais, and even get out of town for a few days. Sixty thousand fans descend on the six stages spread across the beach and Palais. The event raises about 8 million euros for the town and the mayor last year told complaining residents to live with it. The event has been voted France's best festival for the 3rd time by DJ Mag.
Time to prepare for the three days and nights of the Electro Plages, 16 - 18 August. Get out the ear plugs, avoid bars and restaurants near the beach and Palais, and even get out of town for a few days. Sixty thousand fans descend on the six stages spread across the beach and Palais. The event raises about 8 million euros for the town and the mayor last year told complaining residents to live with it. The event has been voted France's best festival for the 3rd time by DJ Mag.
Monday 12 August
Pyrotechnic lovers should note the Cannes fireworks competition takes place 15 (this Thursday) and 24 August. Fireworks are also at Juan les Pins the 15/22/29 August. Plus at Antibes between the Fort Carre and the Siesta Club on 24 August.
Pyrotechnic lovers should note the Cannes fireworks competition takes place 15 (this Thursday) and 24 August. Fireworks are also at Juan les Pins the 15/22/29 August. Plus at Antibes between the Fort Carre and the Siesta Club on 24 August.
Friday 9 August
The Picasso Museum in Antibes has a Joan Miro exhibition until 27 October. It features 12 of his masterpieces from the Nahmad private collection. Also in Antibes, the Peynet Musuem as part of the Olympics celebrations, has an exhibition of humorous cartoons depicting the sporting world. The cartoons are by Claude Serre and the exhibition last till 29 September
The Picasso Museum in Antibes has a Joan Miro exhibition until 27 October. It features 12 of his masterpieces from the Nahmad private collection. Also in Antibes, the Peynet Musuem as part of the Olympics celebrations, has an exhibition of humorous cartoons depicting the sporting world. The cartoons are by Claude Serre and the exhibition last till 29 September
Thursday 8 August
The Potters Festival takes place at Vallauris on Sunday. It starts at 9am and lasts until midnight. It features a market, demonstrations, workshops, parades and entertainments.
Picasso went to Vallauris to learn how to throw a pot and decorate it.
The Potters Festival takes place at Vallauris on Sunday. It starts at 9am and lasts until midnight. It features a market, demonstrations, workshops, parades and entertainments.
Picasso went to Vallauris to learn how to throw a pot and decorate it.
Wednesday 7 August - Cannes fireworks 10pm
Le Cannet celebrates its 250th anniversary with events on Friday and Saturday. It separated by Royal decree from Cannes in 1774. Friday starts at 7.30pm in the Tivoli Gardens with old fashioned games for all ages and food trucks to hand. Celebrations move to the town hall at 10pm for a light show and then 80s music. Saturday sees services at different churches with an Aioli in the evening and a concert at the Tivoli theatre.
Le Cannet celebrates its 250th anniversary with events on Friday and Saturday. It separated by Royal decree from Cannes in 1774. Friday starts at 7.30pm in the Tivoli Gardens with old fashioned games for all ages and food trucks to hand. Celebrations move to the town hall at 10pm for a light show and then 80s music. Saturday sees services at different churches with an Aioli in the evening and a concert at the Tivoli theatre.
Tuesday 6 August - tropical nights continue
Tomorrow sees the first of the Cannes fireworks in August and a British company will be centre stage. if you are looking for an unusual spot to watch from, do try the bell tower of the St Jacques-le-Majeur church, Mougins. It costs 25 euros for adults and 10 for under12s. Fireworks also take place on 15 and 24 August.
Tomorrow sees the first of the Cannes fireworks in August and a British company will be centre stage. if you are looking for an unusual spot to watch from, do try the bell tower of the St Jacques-le-Majeur church, Mougins. It costs 25 euros for adults and 10 for under12s. Fireworks also take place on 15 and 24 August.
Monday 5 August
Do take care when swimming in the sea especially with this hot weather. Since 1 July 40 people have been rescued and 10 people have drowned (three last year) on the Riviera.
Do take care when swimming in the sea especially with this hot weather. Since 1 July 40 people have been rescued and 10 people have drowned (three last year) on the Riviera.
Friday 2 August
The 60th edition of the Jasmine Festival in Grasse starts today and lasts all weekend. Fireworks tonight at 10.15pm and there will be musicians and dancers, DJs, and a flower parade tomorrow.
The 60th edition of the Jasmine Festival in Grasse starts today and lasts all weekend. Fireworks tonight at 10.15pm and there will be musicians and dancers, DJs, and a flower parade tomorrow.
Thursday 1 August
The heatwave will continue into next week. Sea temperatures reached 28 deg yesterday. And to add to the misery, jellyfish are off the Midi beaches and Ste Marguerite island, Cannes.
The heatwave will continue into next week. Sea temperatures reached 28 deg yesterday. And to add to the misery, jellyfish are off the Midi beaches and Ste Marguerite island, Cannes.
Tuesday 30 July
There are 166,314 Brits holding French residency cards as of end of last year. For the second year Americans obtained more first time residency cards last year than the British: 12,153 v 9,261 Brits. Americans are now the fifth largest foreign nationality compared with the Brits at 10th place.
There are 166,314 Brits holding French residency cards as of end of last year. For the second year Americans obtained more first time residency cards last year than the British: 12,153 v 9,261 Brits. Americans are now the fifth largest foreign nationality compared with the Brits at 10th place.
Monday 29 July
The heatwave continues with an orange warning out until at least Thursday. Early morning temperatures tomorrow will be 28-30 degrees and day time about 33 in Cannes. Remember hats, sunglasses, sun cream... and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
The heatwave continues with an orange warning out until at least Thursday. Early morning temperatures tomorrow will be 28-30 degrees and day time about 33 in Cannes. Remember hats, sunglasses, sun cream... and drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
Friday 26 July
An official heatwave (canicule) warning is in place for tonight. Canicule warnings take into account the difference between day and night time temperatures. Tonight - and possibly into next week - night temperatures will not fall below 25 degrees with day temperatures in the early 30s.
An official heatwave (canicule) warning is in place for tonight. Canicule warnings take into account the difference between day and night time temperatures. Tonight - and possibly into next week - night temperatures will not fall below 25 degrees with day temperatures in the early 30s.
Thursday 25 July
Holders of French bank cards can now make contactless payments of more than 50 euros. BUT, of course, this being France there is a catch. You still have to enter your PIN number while not needing to insert the card into the machine. You can always ask your bank to deactivate the contactless option.
Holders of French bank cards can now make contactless payments of more than 50 euros. BUT, of course, this being France there is a catch. You still have to enter your PIN number while not needing to insert the card into the machine. You can always ask your bank to deactivate the contactless option.
Wednesday 24 July
A few problems with water qualities have been reported. No swimming is allowed at Ondell beach, Antibes. Garoupe Est and Gravette on the Cap are sufficient for swimming but not good. At Golfe Juan the beach is again sufficient. Although all beaches in Cannes are rated good to excellent there is one near the Nouveau Palais on the Croisette that is only sufficient.
A few problems with water qualities have been reported. No swimming is allowed at Ondell beach, Antibes. Garoupe Est and Gravette on the Cap are sufficient for swimming but not good. At Golfe Juan the beach is again sufficient. Although all beaches in Cannes are rated good to excellent there is one near the Nouveau Palais on the Croisette that is only sufficient.
Tuesday 23 July
Thought you saw Fergie, Duchess of York, in town...? you were right. She was in Cannes attending the Knights of Charity Gala at the Chateau de la Croix des Gardes last night. Milutin Gatsby, philanthropist, Sharon Stone and actors Andy Garcia and Orlando Bloom hosted the evening. Music was provided by Andrea Bocelli, Lisa Stansfield, Robin Thicke, Martin Solveig and DJ Mark Ronson. The event raised money for Save the children, Children Unicef, Sarah's trust for children, Gisele Bundchen Foundation, ABF for Children and DeliverFund.org
Thought you saw Fergie, Duchess of York, in town...? you were right. She was in Cannes attending the Knights of Charity Gala at the Chateau de la Croix des Gardes last night. Milutin Gatsby, philanthropist, Sharon Stone and actors Andy Garcia and Orlando Bloom hosted the evening. Music was provided by Andrea Bocelli, Lisa Stansfield, Robin Thicke, Martin Solveig and DJ Mark Ronson. The event raised money for Save the children, Children Unicef, Sarah's trust for children, Gisele Bundchen Foundation, ABF for Children and DeliverFund.org
Monday 22 July - fireworks tonight
If you want to know how clean the water at your favourite beach is head to www.labelleplage.fr This is a French environmental body and it has produced an interactive map of 1,854 beaches in the country. Just 5% (93 beaches) are to be avoided with 80% safe to use. Do note Cannes puts up water test results regularly. La Belle Plage says it is stricter than local authorities. I checked the site and can confirm Cannes beaches are good.
If you want to know how clean the water at your favourite beach is head to www.labelleplage.fr This is a French environmental body and it has produced an interactive map of 1,854 beaches in the country. Just 5% (93 beaches) are to be avoided with 80% safe to use. Do note Cannes puts up water test results regularly. La Belle Plage says it is stricter than local authorities. I checked the site and can confirm Cannes beaches are good.
Thursday 18 July- take care, very hot weekend
From today the Tour de France takes place between Embrun and Isola 2000 before heading for the final in Nice on Sunday.
Do not plan on going to the village of Eze though as it will be cut off from the world for the whole day. Locals are up in arms about this.
From today the Tour de France takes place between Embrun and Isola 2000 before heading for the final in Nice on Sunday.
Do not plan on going to the village of Eze though as it will be cut off from the world for the whole day. Locals are up in arms about this.
Wednesday 17 July
Beware of scam QR codes on parking meters in Nice. Phoney QR stickers are placed over the real one. You should only download the PayByPhone app from the Apple Store or Google Play. You are asked NOT to scan the meter code but to type in the meter identification number or search for your parking space by location. Actually, always best to take the train to Nice and use the trams.
Beware of scam QR codes on parking meters in Nice. Phoney QR stickers are placed over the real one. You should only download the PayByPhone app from the Apple Store or Google Play. You are asked NOT to scan the meter code but to type in the meter identification number or search for your parking space by location. Actually, always best to take the train to Nice and use the trams.
Tuesday 16 July
Calling all lovers of train journeys with stunning scenery to enjoy at leisure. The Espresso Riviera tourist train will run between Milan and Nice from 4 August to 1 September and then between Ventimiglia and Milan until 29 September. It leaves Milan in the morning arriving Nice in the early afternoon before returning to Milan that day. It takes about six hours each way and costs from 44,50 euros. There is a bar and restaurant car on board. Tickets go on sale 20 July through Trenitalia app or www.fstrenituristici.it
Calling all lovers of train journeys with stunning scenery to enjoy at leisure. The Espresso Riviera tourist train will run between Milan and Nice from 4 August to 1 September and then between Ventimiglia and Milan until 29 September. It leaves Milan in the morning arriving Nice in the early afternoon before returning to Milan that day. It takes about six hours each way and costs from 44,50 euros. There is a bar and restaurant car on board. Tickets go on sale 20 July through Trenitalia app or www.fstrenituristici.it
Monday 15 July
There have been lots of traffic jams on the A8 motorway in the past couple of months, especially around the Antibes toll booths, so take care if heading to the airport. Check and if necessary allow more time and take a non motorway route.
Do note also the A8 eastbound near Aix en Provence will be closed tonight and tomorrow night from 9pm to 6am.
There have been lots of traffic jams on the A8 motorway in the past couple of months, especially around the Antibes toll booths, so take care if heading to the airport. Check and if necessary allow more time and take a non motorway route.
Do note also the A8 eastbound near Aix en Provence will be closed tonight and tomorrow night from 9pm to 6am.
Friday 12 July
This Sunday is France's 14 July celebrations - known by the Bits as Bastille Day. There will be fireworks, music and dancing this evening in Cannes.
The town will be heaving.
This Sunday is France's 14 July celebrations - known by the Bits as Bastille Day. There will be fireworks, music and dancing this evening in Cannes.
The town will be heaving.
Thursday 11 July
Recently many planes have been arriving or leaving Nice Airport up to an hour late. This is due to flight training for the opening ceremony of the Olympics as well as the 14 July celebrations. Do note that you have to check in at the correct time even if you are notified of a late take-off.
Recently many planes have been arriving or leaving Nice Airport up to an hour late. This is due to flight training for the opening ceremony of the Olympics as well as the 14 July celebrations. Do note that you have to check in at the correct time even if you are notified of a late take-off.
Wednesday 10 July
Along Les Allees an open air photographic exhibition has opened in honour of the Paris Olympics. It features 19 sports people who have become actors and vice versa. You will find Nanni Moretti, Italian actor-director and former water polo player; Vinnie Jones who has acted in forty thrillers (footballer); plus Bruce Lee; Bud Spencer (swimming); Geena Davis (archery), Michelle Yeoh (martial arts); Eric Cantona; Jean-Claude Van Damme; Lino Ventura; and Patrick Dempsey (Grey's Anatomy ) who became a Le Mans 24 hour racing driver.
Along Les Allees an open air photographic exhibition has opened in honour of the Paris Olympics. It features 19 sports people who have become actors and vice versa. You will find Nanni Moretti, Italian actor-director and former water polo player; Vinnie Jones who has acted in forty thrillers (footballer); plus Bruce Lee; Bud Spencer (swimming); Geena Davis (archery), Michelle Yeoh (martial arts); Eric Cantona; Jean-Claude Van Damme; Lino Ventura; and Patrick Dempsey (Grey's Anatomy ) who became a Le Mans 24 hour racing driver.
Tuesday 9 July
Do take care of your contactless bank cards especially in summer when we wear and carry less. Scammers can walk pass you with a card reader, which uses NFC technology, and deduct up to 50 euros from a French card. Make sure you protect the card with an NFC blocker plastic card which you can buy or, in some cases, request from your bank. Better safe than sorry!
Do take care of your contactless bank cards especially in summer when we wear and carry less. Scammers can walk pass you with a card reader, which uses NFC technology, and deduct up to 50 euros from a French card. Make sure you protect the card with an NFC blocker plastic card which you can buy or, in some cases, request from your bank. Better safe than sorry!
Monday 8 July
Despite a drubbing in the first round of voting the existing MPs for Cannes and Le Cannet managed to retain their seats. Alexandra Martin, under the banner Nouvelle Energie of the mayor of Cannes, beat her National Rally opponent. Michele Tabarot represents Les Republicains and has been an MP for 22 years. She returns to Parliament for the sixth time representing Le Cannet, Mouans Sartoux and Mougins among other places.
Despite a drubbing in the first round of voting the existing MPs for Cannes and Le Cannet managed to retain their seats. Alexandra Martin, under the banner Nouvelle Energie of the mayor of Cannes, beat her National Rally opponent. Michele Tabarot represents Les Republicains and has been an MP for 22 years. She returns to Parliament for the sixth time representing Le Cannet, Mouans Sartoux and Mougins among other places.
Friday 5 July
Super car lovers need to head to the grounds of the Mondrian Hotel formerly the Grand) on the Croisette tomorrow to see about 40 models worth millions of euros and boasting tens of thousands of horsepower. It is billed the Cannes World Car.
Super car lovers need to head to the grounds of the Mondrian Hotel formerly the Grand) on the Croisette tomorrow to see about 40 models worth millions of euros and boasting tens of thousands of horsepower. It is billed the Cannes World Car.
Thursday 4 July - fireworks tonight
Eleven million visitors came to the Alpes Maritimes last year. More then three million of them visited Cannes, 4.5m Nice and 120,000 Antibes -Juan les Pins.
A Happy 4 July to all American residents & visitors
Eleven million visitors came to the Alpes Maritimes last year. More then three million of them visited Cannes, 4.5m Nice and 120,000 Antibes -Juan les Pins.
A Happy 4 July to all American residents & visitors
Wednesday 3 July
Watch out for jelly fish when swimming in the sea. Although not yet spotted at Cannes, they are at Juan les Pins beaches and the Cap d'Antibes.
Watch out for jelly fish when swimming in the sea. Although not yet spotted at Cannes, they are at Juan les Pins beaches and the Cap d'Antibes.
Tuesday 2 July
The sitting member of Parliament for the 8th arondisement (constituency), Alexandra Martin, has made it to the second round of voting this Sunday. She is standing under David Lisnard's Nouvelle Energie banner and represents Cannes, Mandelieu, Vallauris and Theoule.
Cannes, the town, voted 39.78% for the National Front candidate, btw.
The sitting member of Parliament for the 8th arondisement (constituency), Alexandra Martin, has made it to the second round of voting this Sunday. She is standing under David Lisnard's Nouvelle Energie banner and represents Cannes, Mandelieu, Vallauris and Theoule.
Cannes, the town, voted 39.78% for the National Front candidate, btw.
Monday 1 July
A French consumer magazine has tested 15 anti mozzie products. The top three are: Cinq sur cinq spray famille 100 ml: 16.8 out of 20; Moustifluid spray haute protection pour zone à risque: 16.4/20; and Mousti KO: 15.5/20. All DEET based products protected for more than eight hours. Personally I get friends to bring over Superdrug's jungle strength DEET spray. Remember that DEET melts plastic and that means it can damage anything from contact lenses, spectacles' rims and arms, and plastic watch faces to nail polish and synthetic clothes
A French consumer magazine has tested 15 anti mozzie products. The top three are: Cinq sur cinq spray famille 100 ml: 16.8 out of 20; Moustifluid spray haute protection pour zone à risque: 16.4/20; and Mousti KO: 15.5/20. All DEET based products protected for more than eight hours. Personally I get friends to bring over Superdrug's jungle strength DEET spray. Remember that DEET melts plastic and that means it can damage anything from contact lenses, spectacles' rims and arms, and plastic watch faces to nail polish and synthetic clothes
Friday 28 June
This weekend showcases a new event - Cannes Vintage featuring the 1980s to 2000. Events take place atop Le Suquet, on the Pantiero and in the Gare Maritimes where you can enjoy cult films and a games arcade. There is a display of old cars and scooters on the Pantiero including the DeLorean from Back to the Future and the car used by Starsky and Hutch. In Le Suquet there is a market selling vintage goods. Everything is free except the music and dancing at Place de la Castre which costs 10 euros 7.30pm to 12.30am Saturday.
This weekend showcases a new event - Cannes Vintage featuring the 1980s to 2000. Events take place atop Le Suquet, on the Pantiero and in the Gare Maritimes where you can enjoy cult films and a games arcade. There is a display of old cars and scooters on the Pantiero including the DeLorean from Back to the Future and the car used by Starsky and Hutch. In Le Suquet there is a market selling vintage goods. Everything is free except the music and dancing at Place de la Castre which costs 10 euros 7.30pm to 12.30am Saturday.
Thursday 27 June
The summer season's events in Cannes have been announced. Click on What's On on the left or see cannes.com or the free app cannesagenda.
The summer season's events in Cannes have been announced. Click on What's On on the left or see cannes.com or the free app cannesagenda.
Wednesday 26 June - storm warning this PM
Diary Dates: This summer's fireworks will take place 4/14/22 July and 7/15/24 August. Competing countries are Spain, England, Italy, Canada, China and Belgium. They take place in the Bay of Cannes and start at 10pm.
Diary Dates: This summer's fireworks will take place 4/14/22 July and 7/15/24 August. Competing countries are Spain, England, Italy, Canada, China and Belgium. They take place in the Bay of Cannes and start at 10pm.
Tuesday 25 June
Yet more rain today - when will it end? Yellow warnings today for thunderstorms.
If you are caught short, nice to know there are 36 free public lavatories open all year in Cannes. The town is about to add a further 19, mainly near the coast.
Yet more rain today - when will it end? Yellow warnings today for thunderstorms.
If you are caught short, nice to know there are 36 free public lavatories open all year in Cannes. The town is about to add a further 19, mainly near the coast.
Monday 24 June
Diary Date: 10 -15 September. The Cannes Boat Show is the largest in-water boat show in Europe. There will be nearly 700 boats from 5 - 50 meters on show with 600 exhibitors featured. Port Canto (left) marina will feature power boats. The Old Port has mono and multihulls, rigid and semi rigids, new and secondhand boats plus sail and motor boats. The super yachts as ever are there and you can go aboard and even go out to sea before buying one.
Diary Date: 10 -15 September. The Cannes Boat Show is the largest in-water boat show in Europe. There will be nearly 700 boats from 5 - 50 meters on show with 600 exhibitors featured. Port Canto (left) marina will feature power boats. The Old Port has mono and multihulls, rigid and semi rigids, new and secondhand boats plus sail and motor boats. The super yachts as ever are there and you can go aboard and even go out to sea before buying one.
Friday 21 June
The national Fete de la Musique takes place today. See cannes.com for full programme of free events. Summer has started.
Tomorrow sees the start of the free beach shuttle navettes. New for this year you can book places on the public Zamenoff beach (Croisette opposite kiosk 6) on mairiedecannes.tickeasy.com Nine euros all day and 6.50 half days.
The national Fete de la Musique takes place today. See cannes.com for full programme of free events. Summer has started.
Tomorrow sees the start of the free beach shuttle navettes. New for this year you can book places on the public Zamenoff beach (Croisette opposite kiosk 6) on mairiedecannes.tickeasy.com Nine euros all day and 6.50 half days.
Thursday 20 June
Tomorrow the new FAMM opens in Mougins. It is the world's first museum dedicated to women artists. Each of the four floors features different artistic periods of the past 160 years: from Impressionist to Contemporary. Full entrance fee is 16 euros. There are reductions for locals, families and groups as well as students and the 65+. See www.famm.com
Tomorrow the new FAMM opens in Mougins. It is the world's first museum dedicated to women artists. Each of the four floors features different artistic periods of the past 160 years: from Impressionist to Contemporary. Full entrance fee is 16 euros. There are reductions for locals, families and groups as well as students and the 65+. See www.famm.com
Wednesday 19 June
Actress Halle Barry carried the Olympic torch up the Palais' famous steps during the Cannes Lions. A relay was also held by Team USA through Cannes. It was all part of the torch's official procession through the Alpes Maritimes.
Actress Halle Barry carried the Olympic torch up the Palais' famous steps during the Cannes Lions. A relay was also held by Team USA through Cannes. It was all part of the torch's official procession through the Alpes Maritimes.
Tuesday 18 June
British ex-pats, no matter how long they have lived abroad, have until 11.59pm tonight to register to vote. At this stage it is best to opt for a proxy vote (deadline tomorrow night). www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
NB Only French citizens can vote in the French parliamentary elections.
British ex-pats, no matter how long they have lived abroad, have until 11.59pm tonight to register to vote. At this stage it is best to opt for a proxy vote (deadline tomorrow night). www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
NB Only French citizens can vote in the French parliamentary elections.
Monday 17 June
Today sees the start of the four day Cannes Lions world advertising fest. It is probably the town's most lucrative event. The Marriott hotel has been privatised by Netflix, beaches by Google and Microsoft and the Pantiero by Amazon. A warm welcome to all creatives and innovators.
Today sees the start of the four day Cannes Lions world advertising fest. It is probably the town's most lucrative event. The Marriott hotel has been privatised by Netflix, beaches by Google and Microsoft and the Pantiero by Amazon. A warm welcome to all creatives and innovators.
Friday 14 June
A demonstration is planned for tomorrow morning leaving from the Cannes railway station at 10am. Various trade unions and other left wing organisations are mobilising against the Far Right in advance of the forthcoming French national Parliamentary election.
A demonstration is planned for tomorrow morning leaving from the Cannes railway station at 10am. Various trade unions and other left wing organisations are mobilising against the Far Right in advance of the forthcoming French national Parliamentary election.
Thursday 13 June
At dawn today there was a mega thunderstorm with 100-130mm of rain falling in just a few hours: equivalent to a month's rain. Cannes, Theoule, and Mandelieu were badly hit. The sun is out again today.
At dawn today there was a mega thunderstorm with 100-130mm of rain falling in just a few hours: equivalent to a month's rain. Cannes, Theoule, and Mandelieu were badly hit. The sun is out again today.
Wednesday 12 June
A 2.8 earthquake was recorded yesterday at the Franco-Italian border near Cuneo. Another quake (2.1) hit today 100km off the Ligurian coast, near San Remo. The shock was felt all along the Alpes Maritimes coastline.
A 2.8 earthquake was recorded yesterday at the Franco-Italian border near Cuneo. Another quake (2.1) hit today 100km off the Ligurian coast, near San Remo. The shock was felt all along the Alpes Maritimes coastline.
Tuesday 11 June
All British ex-pats have the right now to vote in the forthcoming UK election. Today the foreign secretary, Lord Cameron, has announced that the Tories, if they return to power, will appoint a Minister for Brits living abroad. Topics such as tax, pensions, tuition fees, banking and visas raised through an MP will be passed to and championed by a dedicated minister.
All British ex-pats have the right now to vote in the forthcoming UK election. Today the foreign secretary, Lord Cameron, has announced that the Tories, if they return to power, will appoint a Minister for Brits living abroad. Topics such as tax, pensions, tuition fees, banking and visas raised through an MP will be passed to and championed by a dedicated minister.
Monday 10 June
Ten of Cannes' beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag, three more than last year. It is the town with the most Blue flag beaches in the Department. They are Ile Sainte-Marguerite East, Ile Sainte-Marguerite West, Chantiers navals, Font de Veyre, Rochers de la Bocca, Saint Georges, Trou de l’Ancre, Midi, Riou, Gare Marchandiset. Its three ports, Canto, Vieux-Port and Mourre Rouge, have also been awarded Blue flag status, one more than last year.
Ten of Cannes' beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag, three more than last year. It is the town with the most Blue flag beaches in the Department. They are Ile Sainte-Marguerite East, Ile Sainte-Marguerite West, Chantiers navals, Font de Veyre, Rochers de la Bocca, Saint Georges, Trou de l’Ancre, Midi, Riou, Gare Marchandiset. Its three ports, Canto, Vieux-Port and Mourre Rouge, have also been awarded Blue flag status, one more than last year.
Thursday 30 May
Pharmacists are on strike today although there will be at least one on duty open. From 1 June chemists will be able to treat certain ailments without a prescription including antibiotics in some cases.
Also check before flying tomorrow as French air traffic controllers have posted their intent to strike until 7 June.
Pharmacists are on strike today although there will be at least one on duty open. From 1 June chemists will be able to treat certain ailments without a prescription including antibiotics in some cases.
Also check before flying tomorrow as French air traffic controllers have posted their intent to strike until 7 June.
Wednesday 29 May
Do check if travelling by train today as there are cancellations and delays between Cannes and Grasse and on the Cannes - Les Arcs line. This severe disruption is due to a power cut at La Bocca.
Do check if travelling by train today as there are cancellations and delays between Cannes and Grasse and on the Cannes - Les Arcs line. This severe disruption is due to a power cut at La Bocca.
Tuesday 28 May
A small New York studio, Neon, has won its fifth in a row Palme d'Or this year with Anora. It also snapped up the film The Seeds of the Wild Fig Tree which won a special prize. Neon buys films which it then distributes to cinemas. It provides marketing and awards campaigns. Founder Tom Quinn, who spent decades working on independent films, said Cannes is an ideal hunting ground. Neon has recently moved into production.
A small New York studio, Neon, has won its fifth in a row Palme d'Or this year with Anora. It also snapped up the film The Seeds of the Wild Fig Tree which won a special prize. Neon buys films which it then distributes to cinemas. It provides marketing and awards campaigns. Founder Tom Quinn, who spent decades working on independent films, said Cannes is an ideal hunting ground. Neon has recently moved into production.
Monday 27 May - storm alert
Two titans of Hollywood cinema created the most moving moments of the closing ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival. George Lucas (80) received a standing ovation when he came on stage before being moved to tears when his great friend Francis Ford Coppola (85) also appeared on stage to present the honorary Palme d'Or to him.
Two titans of Hollywood cinema created the most moving moments of the closing ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival. George Lucas (80) received a standing ovation when he came on stage before being moved to tears when his great friend Francis Ford Coppola (85) also appeared on stage to present the honorary Palme d'Or to him.
Friday 24 May
The 81st Monaco Grand Prix is under way. The drivers will make 78 laps of the circuit, covering 3,337 km on Sunday. Do head to the entry free fan zone at Place d'Armes, open 9am to 9pm every day. Today and tomorrow the drivers are interviewed there - don't forget your autograph book. You can watch on big screens or enjoy the simulator or the pit stop challenge. There is a DJ tonight and live concerts tomorrow and Sunday after the race. Take the train, by the way.
The 81st Monaco Grand Prix is under way. The drivers will make 78 laps of the circuit, covering 3,337 km on Sunday. Do head to the entry free fan zone at Place d'Armes, open 9am to 9pm every day. Today and tomorrow the drivers are interviewed there - don't forget your autograph book. You can watch on big screens or enjoy the simulator or the pit stop challenge. There is a DJ tonight and live concerts tomorrow and Sunday after the race. Take the train, by the way.
Thursday 23 May
The UK general election is on Thursday 4 July. All British ex-pats no matter how long they have lived abroad can now vote in this election. Key dates are: 18 June - Deadline for application to register to vote; 19 June - Deadline for application for postal votes; 26 June - Deadline for applications to vote by proxy. It is recommended you opt for a proxy vote rather than relying on the post. See: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
The UK general election is on Thursday 4 July. All British ex-pats no matter how long they have lived abroad can now vote in this election. Key dates are: 18 June - Deadline for application to register to vote; 19 June - Deadline for application for postal votes; 26 June - Deadline for applications to vote by proxy. It is recommended you opt for a proxy vote rather than relying on the post. See: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
Wednesday 22 May
Cambodian star Mean Sonyta has that wow factor on the red carpet. She wears an outfit in honour of her country combining Khymer identity with modern craftmanship and classics. The dress is embroidered with golden threads and the hat is made from scarves with shiny precious stones.
Cambodian star Mean Sonyta has that wow factor on the red carpet. She wears an outfit in honour of her country combining Khymer identity with modern craftmanship and classics. The dress is embroidered with golden threads and the hat is made from scarves with shiny precious stones.
Tuesday 21 May
At 6pm tonight the Olympic flame will mount the famous red stairway accompanied by four of France's top athletes. Alongside them will be Catherine Deneuve and Chiara Mastroianni presenting Marcello Mio by Christophe Honoré. At 7:30 pm the documentary Olympics! La France des Jeux by Mickael Gamrasni will be broadcast. It looks at French participation in the Olympic Games since their creation in 1896.
At 6pm tonight the Olympic flame will mount the famous red stairway accompanied by four of France's top athletes. Alongside them will be Catherine Deneuve and Chiara Mastroianni presenting Marcello Mio by Christophe Honoré. At 7:30 pm the documentary Olympics! La France des Jeux by Mickael Gamrasni will be broadcast. It looks at French participation in the Olympic Games since their creation in 1896.
Friday 17 May - the sun is out
Columbia Pictures is celebrating its 100th anniversary with an exhibition featuring thirty of its famous studio actresses. It can be seen until 10 June and found on the Felix Faure walkway. The photographs include stars such as Katherine Hepburn, Deborah Kerr, Claudette Colbert, Ann-Margret, Meryl Streep, Viola Davis, Julia Roberts, Michelle Yeo and Rita Hayworth. See www.columbiapictures100.com
Columbia Pictures is celebrating its 100th anniversary with an exhibition featuring thirty of its famous studio actresses. It can be seen until 10 June and found on the Felix Faure walkway. The photographs include stars such as Katherine Hepburn, Deborah Kerr, Claudette Colbert, Ann-Margret, Meryl Streep, Viola Davis, Julia Roberts, Michelle Yeo and Rita Hayworth. See www.columbiapictures100.com
Wednesday 15 May
Star of the red carpet on opening night was undoubtedly Border Collie Messi. He also bow-wowed the gathered photographers last year as star of the Palme d'Or film Anatomy of a Fall. This year Messi will be wearing a camera and mike and producing a daily one minute film Cannes Festival seen from a dog's height. It can be seen on TikTok.
Star of the red carpet on opening night was undoubtedly Border Collie Messi. He also bow-wowed the gathered photographers last year as star of the Palme d'Or film Anatomy of a Fall. This year Messi will be wearing a camera and mike and producing a daily one minute film Cannes Festival seen from a dog's height. It can be seen on TikTok.
Tuesday 14 May - wet and windy
The Film Festival jury enjoyed a pink themed meal 'a la Barbie' in honour of the jury's president Greta Gerwig, Barbie's director. They met at the Palme d'Or restaurant, Martinez Hotel, last night and enjoyed the meal created by chef Jean Imbert. Menu: Crispy palm/fennel and rose marshmallow tart; La Palme rose au caviar; Barbie Tuna with Hibiscus and a tomato Barbajuan; and Greta's wild strawberry souffle.
The Film Festival jury enjoyed a pink themed meal 'a la Barbie' in honour of the jury's president Greta Gerwig, Barbie's director. They met at the Palme d'Or restaurant, Martinez Hotel, last night and enjoyed the meal created by chef Jean Imbert. Menu: Crispy palm/fennel and rose marshmallow tart; La Palme rose au caviar; Barbie Tuna with Hibiscus and a tomato Barbajuan; and Greta's wild strawberry souffle.
Monday 13 May
The Olympic flame will mount the famous steps of the Cannes Film Festival on 21 May. It will be carried by French athlete Arnaud Assoumani. A host of other Olympian champions will also be present. The torch will return to Cannes on 18 June as part of its national tour.
The Olympic flame will mount the famous steps of the Cannes Film Festival on 21 May. It will be carried by French athlete Arnaud Assoumani. A host of other Olympian champions will also be present. The torch will return to Cannes on 18 June as part of its national tour.
Friday 10 May
Cannes came in third as the most entrepreneurial city in France last year. Net new companies were 464, one new company for every 161 residents. Grasse came in 12th with 261 new businesses. Paris, unsurprisingly, came first.
Cannes came in third as the most entrepreneurial city in France last year. Net new companies were 464, one new company for every 161 residents. Grasse came in 12th with 261 new businesses. Paris, unsurprisingly, came first.
Thursday 9 May - national holiday
Not long to wait for the Film Festival to start. During the festival fans will be seen each day outside the Palais with signs asking for tickets. Quite often they are in luck because the professionals get a quota of tickets for each film. If not used, they run the risk of losing tickets for other film screenings... so they are happy to give them away to fill the seats allocated.
Not long to wait for the Film Festival to start. During the festival fans will be seen each day outside the Palais with signs asking for tickets. Quite often they are in luck because the professionals get a quota of tickets for each film. If not used, they run the risk of losing tickets for other film screenings... so they are happy to give them away to fill the seats allocated.
Wednesday 8 May - national holiday
Today and tomorrow are Bank Holidays with many people taking Friday off to make a five day break. Traffic is expected to be very heavy on Sunday.
Note there are delays due to road works of up to 40 minutes on A8 direction Italy near Junction 58 Roquebrune. Today sees the Olympic flame arrive at Marseille before it tours the Var. The Alpes Maritimes has to wait until 18 June. The flame will visit Cannes, Grasse and Antibes among other places.
Today and tomorrow are Bank Holidays with many people taking Friday off to make a five day break. Traffic is expected to be very heavy on Sunday.
Note there are delays due to road works of up to 40 minutes on A8 direction Italy near Junction 58 Roquebrune. Today sees the Olympic flame arrive at Marseille before it tours the Var. The Alpes Maritimes has to wait until 18 June. The flame will visit Cannes, Grasse and Antibes among other places.
Tuesday 7 May
Reserve your free places for Museum Night at the Bonnard in Le Cannet. On 18 May there will be three sessions - 7pm, 8.15pm and 9.30pm with free entertainment. You will find yourself immersed in the universe of Toulouse Lautrec with dancing and cabaret and the art of the day. You are welcome to wear a Belle Epoque accessory such as a feather boa or necklace.
Info and reservations : [email protected]
Reserve your free places for Museum Night at the Bonnard in Le Cannet. On 18 May there will be three sessions - 7pm, 8.15pm and 9.30pm with free entertainment. You will find yourself immersed in the universe of Toulouse Lautrec with dancing and cabaret and the art of the day. You are welcome to wear a Belle Epoque accessory such as a feather boa or necklace.
Info and reservations : [email protected]
Monday 6 May
Booking subscriptions open today for the Palais des Festivals shows (Oct this year until June next year). Single tickets and Freedom cards can be booked from 13 May. You can take your pick from theatre, comedy, dance, classical music to musicals and concerts featuring stars from the French music scene. Pop into the tourist office near the Palais to book or go to palaisdesfestivals.com and cannesticket.com.
Booking subscriptions open today for the Palais des Festivals shows (Oct this year until June next year). Single tickets and Freedom cards can be booked from 13 May. You can take your pick from theatre, comedy, dance, classical music to musicals and concerts featuring stars from the French music scene. Pop into the tourist office near the Palais to book or go to palaisdesfestivals.com and cannesticket.com.
Friday 3 May
Meryl Streep is to receive an honorary Palme d'Or on the opening night of the Film Festival. It will be her first time on the red carpet since 1989. Also taking to the famous stairway is a plethora of stars this year including Kevin Costner, George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola, Paul Schrader, Richard Gere and Uma Thurman.
Meryl Streep is to receive an honorary Palme d'Or on the opening night of the Film Festival. It will be her first time on the red carpet since 1989. Also taking to the famous stairway is a plethora of stars this year including Kevin Costner, George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola, Paul Schrader, Richard Gere and Uma Thurman.
Thursday 2 May
Fourteen train stations in the Alpes Maritimes and Var closed their manned ticket offices permanently yesterday. Eight of the busier stations now have two SNCF agents with mobile payment terminals who can help with tickets or trains. The stations do have ticket machines and people can buy tickets and find out train information by using the SNCF smartphone app.
Not a clever move for a busy travel destination with visitors from around the world.
Fourteen train stations in the Alpes Maritimes and Var closed their manned ticket offices permanently yesterday. Eight of the busier stations now have two SNCF agents with mobile payment terminals who can help with tickets or trains. The stations do have ticket machines and people can buy tickets and find out train information by using the SNCF smartphone app.
Not a clever move for a busy travel destination with visitors from around the world.
Wednesday 1 May
Today is a national holiday in France. It is traditional to give Lily of the Valley to friends and family to bring good luck for the coming year. It is acceptable to send digital images as well.
Today is a national holiday in France. It is traditional to give Lily of the Valley to friends and family to bring good luck for the coming year. It is acceptable to send digital images as well.
April/March Highlights
Cannes is lacking 53 national police officers including 18 field agents and 35 investigators due, according to the town council, to the lack of government funding for the past decade. This has led to more work for the municipal police, paid by the residents, and an increase in delinquency. The mayor expects even less police this summer as they head to Paris for the Olympics.
Cannes is lacking 53 national police officers including 18 field agents and 35 investigators due, according to the town council, to the lack of government funding for the past decade. This has led to more work for the municipal police, paid by the residents, and an increase in delinquency. The mayor expects even less police this summer as they head to Paris for the Olympics.
The death toll on French roads is almost twice that in the UK so do take care when driving here. Tiredness is the cause of 23% of fatal accidents on motorways. Drink driving is the cause of 30% of all road fatalities despite French allowances 50% stricter than UK at 0.4g/l. Note, you are 1.5 times more likely to have a fatal crash on a rural road than in a town. There were 3,170 road deaths in France last year and 1,633 in the UK.
Visitors to the EU, including France, beware. You will be turned away if your passport is more than 10 years old from its start date and does not have three months left on it from your French departure date. This applies to tourists and second homeowners.
From 16 April the Forville market will be split over two sites to allow the modernisation work to continue. Local producers and fish stalls will move to a temporary site on the Allees opposite the music stand. All other stalls will remain at the usual Forville site. When completed in spring 2026, the market hall will return to its former glory with a roof garden and kiosk available to the public.
The ticket office of this year's Jazz a Juan is now open. It opens 8 - 18 July. Running alongside it is the free Jammin a Jazz for new talent. The Jazz Club is open 11pm to 1am at the Ambassadeur Hotel. Artists with any jazz themed work can apply to be part of the art exhibition. Jazz lovers can also enjoy looking at the 62 (so far) handprints of famous jazz musicians. Full details and tickets: www.jazzajuan.com
Location, location! Cannes comes in second place after Paris for the highest property prices. It is also bucking the trend with property up 3.4% on the year. The average Cannes price is 6,127 euros per sq/m. Certain streets surpass some prestigious districts of Paris. Top prices are for the Croisette (12,410 euros) and bd Eugene Gazagnaire (10,878). In third place is Antibes.
Deadline for tax returns in the Alpes Maritimes is 23 May. This applies also to second homeowners who have to declare any income on letting their French property in the calendar year 2023. You can do this online.
From this Friday you must not prune trees, bushes or hedgerows until after 31 July. This is so as not to disrupt nesting birds. You can be heavily fined if you do.
The latest exhibition at the Bonnard Museum in Le Cannet celebrates 150 years of Impressionism and opens this Saturday. It includes 80 prints from a private collection and two iconic paintings on loan from the Musee d'Orsay. Learn about the connection between Toulouse Lautrec and Bonnard. Visit the Paris of the Belle-Epoch and its nightlife. Further info: museebonnard.fr
A new wall fresco has been unveiled in Cannes celebrating Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893), one of France's greatest writers and journalists. It can be found at 28 rue Louis Blanche opposite Le Chalet de l'Isere where he lived. This 95m2 mural is the first in the ave de Grasse locality.
Google Maps has disappeared from Google searches due to the European Digital Markets Act which came into effect yesterday. It aims to improve competition. Now, however, you have to search directly for Google Maps. The Connexion has set out how to authorise automatic Google maps: Open your Google account (Gmail for example)
- Click on ‘Manage your Google account’ (top-right on Gmail)
- Click on ‘Data and privacy’
- Scroll down to ‘Linked Google services’ and click ‘Manage linked services’
- Tick the boxes next to ‘Search’ and ‘Google Maps’
- Click ‘Confirm’ then ‘Done’ NB The change may not come into effect immediately
Easyjet has announced new destinations from Nice Airport: Alicante, from April; Athens, May; Malaga, Malta and Kefalonia, June; Agadir, September; Prague, October; and Rabat, November.
Easyjet has been serving Nice Airport for 28 year and has had a hub here for 10 years. It carried four million passengers, 80% of which are for leisure.
Easyjet has been serving Nice Airport for 28 year and has had a hub here for 10 years. It carried four million passengers, 80% of which are for leisure.
February Highlights
The 15th edition of the Etoiles de Mougins gastronomic festival takes place this year 14-15 September. The guest of honour will be the former Elysee Palace chef, Guillaume Gomez. He spent 25 years as chef to French presidents from Jacques Chirac to Macron, who appointed him ambassador of French gastronomy.
The 15th edition of the Etoiles de Mougins gastronomic festival takes place this year 14-15 September. The guest of honour will be the former Elysee Palace chef, Guillaume Gomez. He spent 25 years as chef to French presidents from Jacques Chirac to Macron, who appointed him ambassador of French gastronomy.
The French railways have brought in rules for luggage size and fines if you get it wrong. The new rules apply to intercity, TGV Inoui and TGV Ouigo. To make it yet more cumbersome there are different regulations for the type of train. So take care especially if taking a train after flying in.
Grasse famous for its perfume industry is shaping a new future for itself from this September. This is when the European Sculpture Institute will open its doors to students who will be trained in the art of statuary sculpture, inherited from classical and medieval traditions. It's unique in France. Grasse is twinned with Carrara in Italy famed for its white marble... that's the link.
Transavia, Air France's budget airline, will fly Nice to Faro in Portugal from 42 euros each way from 17 July. From the same date you will also be able to fly to Beirut, Lebanon, from 157 euros.
Cannes' town council has approved the 2024 budget noting it has reduced its debt by 71.55m euros since 2014. It is reducing its operating expenses by 1.51% to accommodate inflation and is investing 80m euros this year.
The battle between David Lisnard, mayor of Cannes, rages on with the town's restaurant owners. They are refusing to sign a new charter banning enclosed terraces. When it rains or gets cold in Cannes the open, unheated terraces stay empty. Many restaurants do not have enough inside space to make them financially viable. Mayor Lisnard, however, refuses to budge on the issue.
Work has finally started on the Star cinema in the rue d'Antibes - eight years after it closed. This art house cinema opened in 1913. When work is completed at the end of next year, it will have four screens seating a total of 539 film buffs.
EasyJet this year will be adding three new destinations from Nice Airport.
- Nice to Alicante from 5 May, Malaga 2 June and Cephalonia, Greece, from 30 June.
Motorway tolls rise by an average 2.7% in the Alpes Maritimes and Var. Electricity prices are also going up, by 9.8%. And all tobacco products will rise from between 10c and one euro a packet. Welcome to February in France!
January Highlights
The new law giving British second-home owners an ‘automatic long-stay visa’ has been rejected by France’s Conseil Constitutionnel despite being passed by both houses of Parliament. It was rejected, however, on a technicality: that it was not directly linked to the immigration bill as first presented. Les Republicans party and many other parliamentarians have vowed to bring it back before Parliament as soon as possible. So watch this space.
The new law giving British second-home owners an ‘automatic long-stay visa’ has been rejected by France’s Conseil Constitutionnel despite being passed by both houses of Parliament. It was rejected, however, on a technicality: that it was not directly linked to the immigration bill as first presented. Les Republicans party and many other parliamentarians have vowed to bring it back before Parliament as soon as possible. So watch this space.
The Croix des Gardes, a stainless steel cross by sculptor Jean-Yves Lechevallier symbolising heritage and sprituality, has fallen down. After 34 years surviving the vagaries of the weather, the 12m high and 8m wide cross finally succumbed to high winds overnight last Thursday. It did not cause any damage and will be rebuilt and restored to its original position by this summer.i
A bouquet of mimosa flowers from Pegomas was placed on the new frame of the choir of Notre Dame de Paris cathedral. It is a tradition to mark the completion of major works.
France's oldest tree can be found along the coast at Roquebrune, Cap Martin. It is an olive tree and is more than 2,200 years old. It stands 15m tall and has a circumference of 23.5m. It won the Coup de Coeur prize this week in the competition to find France's most beautiful trees.
The mouth of the river Var and its surrounding region has now been designated a red flood area and no more building permits will be allowed. This area includes France's second largest airport, Nice, and the department's largest shopping centre, CAP 3000. Existing permits can go ahead including the airport extensions and new bus station, for example. The flood threat is described as once in a thousand years.
All British expats, no matter how long they have lived abroad, can now register to vote in British general elections and referendums. You will need to hand your passport, NI number and postcode of the last place you lived in UK. You then register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. After registration you can apply online for a postal or proxy vote.
You can now buy Cannes Honey produced from hives on top of the Juliana Hotel, rue de Madrid. It is packaged and marketed like a bottle of perfume - beautiful and expensive: from €9 for 45g up to a black velvet box with 400g at 58 euros. It is on sale at the hotel, cheese maker Ceneri, rue Meynadier, and at the La Corbeille grocery store rue Pasteur. See mieldecannes.com for online sales.
The population of Cannes on 1 January this year is 73,990 up 831 since last year. It has 51.3% main homes, 46.6% second homes and just 2.1% vacant homes. It remains the Alpes Maritimes' third largest city after Nice (pop. 348,085) and Antibes (76,147).
The 20th cinematic wall mural has been unveiled. It is the famous kiss from the 1966 Palme d'Or winner Un Homme et Une Femme starring Anouk Aimee and Jean Louis Trintignant. It can be found on the facade of a school on Ave Michel-Jourdan, Cannes. It was painted by Patrick Commecy, covers 80 sq m and cost 35,200 euros.
Please contact us if there is any local English news you feel everyone should know about.