Riviera Insider Numero 185

ART & CULTURE Summer exhibits and music festivals

GOURMET Mirazur named best in the world

MONACO YACHT SHOW The highlights and the latest exhibitors

LIGURIA New Blue Flag beaches

riviera see more, do more, know more

# 185 JulY / augusT / sePTemBer 2019 4,90 â‚Ź The

english-language

magazine

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french

riviera

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monaco

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2002

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EDITORIAL

By NICOLE RUSKELL

The summer season is upon us and after a very confused end of spring when the UK often had better weather than we did, summer came in like a lion with a record-breaking canicule. But it’s all good here in the Côte d’Azur, as I would take our breezy, beach-lined 30° over the sweltering 32° in Paris any day!

This year we are trying something new for the summer, a three-month special issue, incorporating everything you need for arts and culture, seafront dining (don’t miss our exclusive interview with the Negresco’s new head Chef, Virginie Basselot) and of course, our special dossier on the Monaco Yacht Show (p. 24).

The art scene really heats up in the summer and there simply aren’t enough pages to cover it all. Sarah Hyde has collected a thorough list of exhibitions throughout Provence and the Côte d’Azur (p. 46) and we have two pages of live music festivals and three pages of events (starting p. 51). Admittedly, squeezing three months into our editorial schedule has made for a hectic few months, but the carrot at the end of the stick is that we get a chance to go on a proper holiday!

In our May/June issue, we did a city special on Cannes:

‘The city of creativity’. From the film festival to MIDEM, to Cannes Lions there is always a big convention at the Palais. I didn’t know much about Cannes Lions, but after seeing Condé Nast, Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, Pinterest… the biggest companies in media set up along the Croisette, I’m floored by the scope and grandeur that descends on Cannes for five days. But what surprised me the most is that nearly everyone I spoke with locally – French or otherwise - didn’t know anything about Cannes Lions (now in its 66th year). It made me realise that even if we think we know our region or think that we stay ‘au courant’, there is so much we take for granted. And this really is a goal of Riviera Insider – it’s even in our title – to see more, do more and know more.

For the first time, we sent someone to cover the entire week of Cannes Lions; his article is on page 76, but I encourage you to browse his Instagram feed @zudoeswork to see the amazing events and speakers right here in our own backyard. So stay in the know, try to stay cool, and enjoy the summer!

THE TEAM

BICH LECOURT

CAROLE HéBERT

FRANÇOISE MULLER

PATRICE SAINT-LEGER

PETRA HALL

VINCENT ARTUS

DOMINIQUE FREULON

DANIEL NARO

Nicole Ruskell (editor-in-cheif) discovered her passion for journalism and its ability to connect people while working as the editorial director for academic journals. She has a Masters degree in journalism and over 10 years’ experience in publishing.

The California native has worked throughout the French Riviera and Liguria, and is committed to wellbeing and organic principles.

Bich Lecourt (managing director) was born in Antibes. Since completing her PhD in Economics, she has worked in Sophia Antipolis so is well-acquainted with the business ecosystem and atmosphere of the French Riviera. From architecture to interior design and décor, Bich likes discovering new parts of the region and enjoying the quintessential Côte d’Azur lifestyle.

Petra Hall (founder) established the newspaper Riviera-Côte d’Azur Zeitung (now RivieraZeit) in German 26 years ago. It was followed by The Riviera Times, a magazine that has blossomed into Riviera Insider, in 2003. Her goal was always to provide readers with exciting, informative and unique insights written by professional mother-tongue journalists. She has become an institution in the south of France and Monaco's media landscape in her own right.

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.

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.

Françoise Muller (sales & marketing) is originally from Dijon, but has been living and working on the Côte d'Azur since 1993. For 14 years, she has thrived on her work in the communications and marketing industry, and is now an enthusiastic member of our team. Her hobbies include literature and sports.

Dominique Freulon (events & distribution), 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.

Patrice Saint-Léger (sales & marketing) has been working in the communications sector for more than ten years. After studying business administration and entrepreneurship, our Cannes-born publicist discovered his passion in the advertising business. During his free time, his interests lie in sports and nature.

Daniel Naro (sales & marketing) nearly became a professional footballer in his northern French home of Metz. Plan B was the insurance industry, but 25 years later, he sought the sun and found it on the Côte d'Azur.

After re-launching his career in the media, he recently joined the professional Riviera Press team.

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CONTENTS

SPECIAL Monaco Yacht Show A 16-page dossier

The Hotlist

Issue #185 SEE MORE, DO MORE, KNOw MORE

News from the region

6 Nice The city of creativity

Cover “Irisha” by Heesens Yachts ©Heesens Below The new Fendi boutique at One Monte Carlo ©FENDI

24-37

12 Monaco Royal wedding!

Fatal Encounter: 1955

14 Monaco switches to 5G

16 Fendi: The newest big house in Monaco

18 Femme de l’Anné: Successful women in the limelight

20 Unknown Monaco The Tiara as a trademark: The new Chaumet boutique

22

Liguria Susie Barrow: Painting the Ligurian sea

38 Blue Flag Beaches: Liguria best in class

39 Art & Culture Salvador Dalí: A surreal genious

40-41 walking back in time: Villa E-1027 painstakingly restored

42-43 The Agenda: Must-see exhibitions

46-47 Summer music festivals

52-53

Events

54-56 Gourmet A woman at the helm: Negresco’s Head Chef Virginie Basselot

58 Rampoldi Monte-Carlo

59 Summer dining: Marco Polo

62 Mirazur named #1 restaurant in the world

64 Lifestyle Spas & Health

66-71 Business & Finance Business news from the region

71-73 Riviera Press Event

81-83 Community News from around the region

84-90

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EXLUSIVE IN THE ALPES-MARITIMES

742 bd du Mercantour 06200 Nice

1,4 Km after Carrefour Nice Lingostière - from Tuesday to Saturday

04 92 29 52 52 - www.horizon-nice202.com delphine@horizonnice.com

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HOTL IST

Gare du Sud The beautiful Victorian rail station just north of the current Nice-Ville station was once set for demolition. Facing the fate of so many beautiful 19th century relics, the Gare du Sud was nearly lost to history on several occasions, as developers tried to turn the space in a big shopping centre. But Nice Mayor, Christian Estrosi couldn’t let that happen and said that he made sure he stopped every attempt to tear it down. For years he fought to keep it and repurpose it and that is what he finally achieved. On 17 May, Mr Estrosi proudly spoke at the inauguration of Nice’s newest gourmet food hall and culture centre. The 1,500 square-metre gourmet food hall covers the ground floor plus a mezzanine level. There are 28 food stalls ranging from traditional Niçoise to Japanese ramen and sushi to Italian, Chinese, Lebanese and American. For those who like Tex-Mex, check out El Kitchen, serving up tacos, fajitas, guacamole and more. Super Lobster serves up American style lobster rolls with a varied menu. Petit Goa offers Indian street food and Ramen ta Faim, which has been a hit at the airport, serves bento boxes, yakisoba, châshû ramen and more homestyle Japanese favourites.

The upper floor is dedicated to vintage shopping with a second-hand store, vintage-inspired designers and the first southern France location

NICE’S NEWEST FOOD HALL AND EVENT CENTRE

Gare du Sud station is now a culinary food hall. ©Ville de Nice

of Kilo Shop, where you buy clothes by the kilo. And no Nice venue would be complete without an event space and dance floor, perfect for some summer concerts.

Gare du Sud is only a five-minute walk from Nice-Ville station and a fiveminute tram ride from Place Masséna. Open Sunday, Tuesday, wednesday from 11 am - 11 pm, and Thursday, Friday, Saturday until midnight.

Closed Mondays.  35 Avenue Malaussena, 06000 Nice

Brewdog Nice SCOTTISH CRAFT BREWERY OPEN IN OLD TOWN

The fun, funky and punk brewery that is quickly expanding across Europe can now count Nice as their newest location. Brewdog prides themselves on a being a truly independent and disruptive brand, placing people and employees first, crowdfunding their activities (you can even invest in Brewdog through their website), brewing with new recipes (which are all free and public) and ‘breaking the mould’ at every turn.

Their beer? The website describes their signature brew, Punk IPA as follows: “Punk IPA is the beer that kick-started it. This light, golden classic has been subverted with new world hops to create an explosion of flavour. Bursts of caramel and tropical fruit with an all-out riot of grapefruit, pineapple and lychee, precede a spiky bitter finish.”

The other way they are challenging norms is through their extensive employee benefits. Already listed in the Times’ Top 100 Best Employers list, they stand out for their progressive benefits package, including a retirement program, private health care, life insurance, employee discount, paternity leave and much more. Each year, 20% of their profits are given away: 10% split amongst employees and 10% to charity.  4 Avenue Phocéens, 06300 Nice

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New Côte d’Azur family guide

Antje Bosse, a local expat has written a wonderfully useful new travel guide for families. “Out and about on the Côte d’Azur” is a pocket-sized book with 80 family favourites between Monaco and Marseille. It gives details on the most interesting places to visit, the best places to take kids and suggests day trips for hikes and canyon climbing. Each location is filled with info and tips on where to eat, the best time of day and more. Find the guide online and locally at English bookshops in Valbonne and Antibes. 

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La Rotonde NEGRESCO’S HISTORIC BRASSERIE GETS A MAKEOVER

Nice's most famous hotel is also a culinary landmark. In addition to the restaurant "Le Chantecler" decorated with two Michelin stars, the Negresco also has the typical French brasserie "La Rotonde", where gastronomic experiences are offered in a more casual setting.

On 23 May, the Direcotr of the hotel, along with the staff and the new Head Chef, Virginie Basselot were joined my Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi for the innauguration of the renewed space. Once iconic for its carousel motif designed by longstanding hotel ownner Jeanne Augier in 1984. Reflecting on the important role the brasserie has on the history of Nice, Mayor Estrosi recounted: “I always used to come to La Rotonde for milkshakes when I was in high school!”

For six months, the restaurant underwent some serious remodelling, but the spirit of the carousel remains. Refreshed and modernised with gold and white tones, it fits in better with the glamour of the hotel, while still maintaining its casual, amusing character with a symbolic all-white horse under the cupola.

Breakfast is served 7 am - 10:30 am, lunch from 12 pm - 2:30 pm and dinner from 7 pm - 10 pm. Menu for 39 euros, dish of the day for lunch 19.50 euros and the cocktail of the month 15 euros. The new Chef Basselot, whom we introduce on page 58, is responsible for the menu, which features several authentic Niçois dishes. 

The Mall Only an hour from Nice, The Mall is a luxury designer outlet that has just opened its doors in San Remo. Brands such as Gucci, Karl Lagerfeld, Etro, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Balenciaga and many more are spread across two levels, offering a 30% 70% discount on full retail price.

The Mall first opened in Florence and has been hugely successful not only with residents, but attracted tourists from afar for the good deals. with their second location so close to the Côte d’Azur, Liguria is hoping to lure some of our thriving seasonal visitors.

There is currently a navette departing every hour from both the San Remo city centre and the rail station. The first bus departs Piazza Colombo at 9.30 am and the rail station five minutes later for a cost of 4€ round-trip. There will soon be several buses a day departing from Cannes, Nice and Monaco. with restaurants serving Ligurian specialties, it would make a nice day trip to board the air-conditioned motor coach straight to a shopping haven in Italy! www.sanremo.themall.it

NEW LUXURY OUTLETS IN ITALY

Nice Mayor Estrossi cuts the ribbon to inaugurate the revamped La Rotonde

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PAYS DE GR ASSE

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More than just perfume “I HAVE CREATED A FRAGRANCE THAT REMINDS ME OF SPRING MORNING IN ITALY, OF DAFFODILS wITH BRIGHT FLOwERS AND ORANGE BLOSSOMS AFTER THE RAIN. IT REFRESHES ME AND STIMULATES MY SENSES AND IMAGINATION AT THE SAME TIME”.

Jean-Marie Farina

The fabulous history of the Eau de Cologne

By ANNIKA BREMICKER

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"LA FABULEUSE HISTOIRE DE L'EAU DE COLOGNE" Until 5 January at the Musée international de la Parfumerie in Grasse www.museesdegrasse.com

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he Musée International de la Parfumerie in Grasse is opening its doors again after a major renovation and is inviting visitors this summer to an exhibition on the fabulous history of Eau de Cologne.

Did you know that Napoleon already swore by the refreshing effect of Eau de Cologne? Immerse yourself in the unexpected diversity of the history of the Eau de Cologne and let yourself be surprised by the qualities that have been assigned to the fragrance over the centuries!

For more than 300 years now, one thing has been certain: the Eau de Cologne, first produced in Cologne Germany in 1709 by Jean-Marie Farina, was more than just a perfume. It combined hygiene, medicine and beauty products in one. when the French soldiers returned from the Seven Years' war and brought back ‘water’ from Cologne, it met with great enthusiasm in courtly society. Due to its high alcohol content and its refreshing effect, it was regarded as a medical panacea and was especially promised to the hypochondriac King Louis XV. In 1727, the Académie de Médicine in Cologne finally recognized the Eau de Cologne as a health-promoting product.

Napoleon I, who is said to have consumed 36 to 40 bottles per month and a few drops before each fight, was also enthusiastic about the fragrance. Even in exile on Sainte-Hélène, he continued to have the bottles containing the miracle cure made for himself.

Later, during the 19th century, when the desire arose for more cleanliness and protection from epidemics and the resulting research into hygiene, the Eau de Cologne,

together with soaps and lotions, became one of the publicly recognised ambassadors of cleanliness. Industrialisation gave the entire population access to the Eau de Cologne.

In the 20th century, new perfume houses throughout Europe founded their fortunes on the Eau de Cologne. In 1902, the famous London house Penhaligon's brought out the variant Eau de Toilette Blenheim Bouquet and in 1916, perfumers in Parma Italy also created a new fragrance Acqua di Parma, which later became internationally successful thanks to Hollywood stars.

In the 60s and 70s, Eau de Cologne increasingly receded into the background, precisely because of its easy availability it no longer offered exclusive luxury. Only in 2001 did Mugler's Cologne reintroduce the concept - inspired by a piece of soap perfumed with Eau de Cologne.

The much more far-reaching story of the Cologne water, known for its refreshing citrus and rosemary notes, can still be followed until the beginning of 2020 in the Parfumerie Museum in Grasse. with the museum's rich collection, videos, interactive concepts and various olfactory offerings, an experience for all the senses is guaranteed. 

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NICE

Planned park at Saint-Jean-dÁngély in the east of Nice © Ville de Nice

O Nice’s Green Initiative Becoming a Mediterranean garden city By PETRA HALL

ver the past ten years, thirteen parks and about 100 educational gardens have been created in Nice, including the Promenade du Paillon, and one tree per five inhabitants has been planted.

But Mayor Christian Estrosi doesn't want to leave it at that. He has understood that an environmentally friendly city provides a better quality of life and more satisfied citizens which leads to more voters.

Under the initiative, whole streets are to be ‘greened’ by 2021 at the latest. This will be done in a couple phases: Phase one: Bottero, Maréchal Joffre, Pastorelli; P. Dévoluy - gets new sidewalks, a cycle path, a garden and trees planted.

The park above the new tram Station Durandy © Ville de Nice

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Phase two: Dante, Buffa, Liberté, Hôtel des Postes - pavements and cycle paths will also be embellished with exotic plants.

Phase three: Gioffredo - where a secured cycle path, trees and large flower pots will pleasantly change the image of the road.

A palm garden will also be built on Place Gautier and the Promenade des Anglais will be adorned with various types of vegetation.

The tram tracks will be equipped with lawns, as is already the case in some areas, which will help to enhance the overall image of the city.

Thanks to the new Ligne 2 tram (from the port to the airport), a stretch of six kilometres will be bus-free. Cycling paths will also be built here and a green promenade with 2,400 trees will be built. By the end of 2019, the Promenade des Anglais will no longer be served by thermally-powered buses - today there are about 1,000 trips per day!

From 2019, cyclists can enjoy twelve kilometres of bike paths; increasing to 26 kilometres by 2025. There will also be 1,300 additional parking spaces.

The city is investing a total of 700,000 euros in greening its neighbourhoods, some of which have not yet had a single tree. with Estrosi’s initiative, Nice is to become a kind of ‘green lung.’

There is no doubt that Nice has developed in the right direction in the last ten years - no comparison to the somewhat degenerate city it presented 20 years ago.

Its success can already be measured by the growing number of residents and visitors from all over the world. 

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MONACO

A Royal wedding!

Charlotte, 32, is a keen show jumper and holds a degree in Philosophy from University Paris Sorbonne IV. In 2015, she established Les Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco. She has also worked as a model — most notably she was at the Van Guard of gender fluidity walking for Gucci Mens wear. She is also a writer and journalist working notably for ‘Another Magazine.’ She and her new husband Dimitri have a 7-month-old son together. 

Princess Charlotte weds Dimitri Rassam

By SARAH HYDE

n 2 June, Charlotte Casiraghi, daughter of Princess Caroline of Hanover, wed her partner, Dimitri Rassam. It was a simple civil ceremony at the Palace Throne Room in Monaco. The world waited with bated breath to see what she would wear and she managed to please everyone — wearing an exquisite grey couture YSL suit with three bows, a subtle reference to her grandmother Princess Grace’s wedding dress – a detail that delighted the media. The low-key nuptial was followed by a more lavish reception, where she switched to a strapless couture Chanel gown in white satin, accessorised with her grandmother’s

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Charlotte in couture Chanel with spouse Dimitri Rassam. Photo Félix Dol-Maillot © Palais Princier

magnificent Cartier necklace – a gift for her own marriage from Prince Rainier II. The reception was held at the private Villa La Vigie, overlooking the Bay of Monaco. Around 300 guests danced the night away. The party was quite the bash and Charlotte’s new husband did reportedly wi nd up in the pool.

Charlotte in couture YSL for her civil ceremony.

Photo: Félix Dol-Maillot © Palais Princier

Fatal encounter An exhibit of the first meeting of Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly

By PETRA HALL

fairy tale that never fades.

On the contrary: the first encounter between Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly in 1955 is still full of magic, even today. The interest in this encounter, which was also fateful for the development of Monaco, is so great that the archive of the Prince's Palace and the AudioVisual Institute have now put together an extraordinary exhibition. On the occasion of the 90th birthday of Princess Grazia Patrizia, unique elements and even the dress worn by the radiantly beautiful actress on that day will be shown in the Grands Apartments until 15 October under the title "Monaco, 6 mai 1955.

Histoire d'une rencontre".

Grace Kelly has no idea that 1955 would set the course for her future at the Oscar award ceremony for her role in the film "The Country Girl" in spring. In May she accepts an invitation

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© Gaetan Luci

to the 8th Cannes Film Festival. Already in 1954 she had shot the movie "To Catch a Thief" on the Côte d'Azur under the direction of Alfred Hitchcock. In Cannes she gets the call of Prince Rainier to Monaco at the last minute.

Despite a tight schedule, she accepts a date on the afternoon of 6 May. The rest is history.

The idea for this spontaneous meeting came from Paris Match journalist Pierre Galante.

Photographers Michel Simon and Edward Quinn immortalized the historic moment.

These photos can also be seen in the current exhibition. The reportage caused little stir at the time and only became a myth after the marriage of Prince Rainier III and Grace Patricia Kelly on 18 and 19 April.

See the exhibit in Monaco’s Palais Princier until October. 

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HIGHT TIDE

The Gala for the Global Oceans

© Stéphane Danna – Direction de la Communication

5G ARRIVES IN MONACO What you need to know... n April 30th, with the launch of the #ExtendedMonaco program, the Princely Government set the tone for Monaco's ambition of a digital world. The first pillar of this "Smart Principality" with the implementation of optical fibre and the emergence of a sovereign cloud, the 5G network becomes active in July.

There is a big push to move to 5G networks because the world is reaching capacity on 4G networks. The demand for mobile Internet services is proving too much for the current mobile networks., due to the increased consumption of information and social networks that consume large amounts of video and therefore bandwidth, increased use of GPS applications, etc. Martin Peronnet, Managing Director of Monaco Telecom said: "Even before we project ourselves towards opportunities for progress, 5G's priority is to keep us at the heart of a quality network, the very one that is reaching saturation with 4G." He then referred to "the revolution in the business world, which will enable massive

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© De Willyam Bradberry / Shutterstock.com

communication with all connected objects, almost in real time!”.

Is it safe? 5G networks have caused a lot of controversy over the high electromagnetic output of the antennae. Christophe Pierre, Director of Digital Usage Development, established the regulatory framework of electro-magnetic fields. He said: "Since 2010, the Principality has adopted regulations in this area that are even more restrictive than the international standard issued by the ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection), which has set out guidelines defining the exposure limit values not to be exceeded. These are already 50 times lower than the level at which the first thermal effects appear and, for Monaco, these values have been even lower."

So far, 27 5G antennae have been authorized for the Principality, none of which are located in street strucutres or in new buildings. He said that this summer the Government will publish a map of authorized and controlled 5G sites and, at the end of the year, an “electromagnetic register".

Finally, in anticipation of the emotional impact on the health of this issue, Alexandre Bordero, Director of Health and Social Action, recalled that "according to the world Health Organization, in the light of all the collective scientific studies on electromagnetic waves carried out and verified over the past twenty years, they were in no way classified in the category of proven health risks, particularly cancer". 

YOU’VE GOT MAIL!

MONACO:

arcel delivery by drone. One step towards the future: A test package with a drone was recently delivered for the first time in Monaco. The drone flight is to be further developed in the future so that in a few years parcels can be sent regularly by drone between different parcel stations within Monaco. It is hoped that in two years it will be possible to send internal mail or small parcels between the post offices of the principality by air. The advantages are speed, efficiency and cleanliness. "Traveling 2.8 kilometers costs five cents," says Postal Director Jean-Luc Delcroix. 

onaco is investing 1.4 million euros in doubling the number of "Monabike" electric bicycles. By mid-July, 290 of the Monaco-coloured bicycles will be available. Since the beginning of July, an autonomous, electric shuttle bus has also been running free of charge on the Rocher, and from September, the eagerly awaited free map and navigation app "CityMapper" will be available. 

Drone delivery of parcels

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always more eco

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he health and well-being of our oceans has become a hot topic in the last year. However, Prince Albert II has long been fighting to save the seas, doing as much as he can within his own country and working with numerous agencies and foundations to protect oceans farther away.

For the last three years, presided by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, the Monte Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean brings together international artists and philanthropists to fundraise for the protection of our planet’s livelihood. Proceeds from the glamorous event fund the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s worldwide initiatives for a sustainable ocean. These initiatives include the development of marine protected areas, the protection of threatened marine species, the mitigation of the impact of climate change and acidification on the Ocean, the promotion of innovation and the fight against plastic pollution.

More than 70% of the planet’s surface is covered in water which plays a key role in climate regulation, producing 50% of the oxygen we breathe and absorbing 25% of the carbon dioxide released in the atmosphere.

Organized by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and Mr. Milutin Gatsby, Global Fundraising Chairman, this year’s gala will take place on Thursday, 26 September, during the Monaco Yacht Show. Guaranteed to be one of the most memorable charity events in the world, the 2019 edition, held on the Terraces of the Monaco Opera, will begin with a red carpet, cocktail reception and dinner prepared by a star Chef. Expect performances from top international artists – previous years include Nelly Furtado, Robin Thicke, Gloria Gaynor and Madcon.

The highlight of the evening is the auction, filled with unique experiences, collectibles and memorabilia, and a selection of fine art from some of the world’s most important artists.  www.montecarlogalafortheocean.mc

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MONACO

Master artisans Valerio and Dalila © FENDI

VIP changing lounge © FENDI

FENDI The newest big house in Monaco By RUI FERREIRA While holding a permanent address in Cannes, and a seasonal boutique in St. Tropez, the iconic roman brand, Fendi, made Monaco its latest destination, opening a new store front just off the mythical Place du Casino, within the One Monte-Carlo complex - now one of the trendiest shopping districts in the world.

A collection of Fendi’s looks under Karl Lagerfeld © FENDI

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he new boutique goes beyond the concept of a luxury retail unit. It’s a statement. Stepping into the new Fendi store fells like entering into a fine art and design gallery, where every single item displayed is proudly placed as a distinguished piece of work.

Designed by Dimorestudio of Milan, the store features a highly curated mix of vintage furniture, noble materials and collectible art and design pieces.

The space, designed to recall the feel of a warm, chic and elegant roman apartment, ends being the perfect frame for showcasing Fendi’s finest goods, including clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women.

Following the inauguration on 6 June, the after-event was more than a glamorous dinner party. It was an experience that truly reflects what the brand represents and stands for: combining elements from its legacy, its craft and its innovative vision for the future.

Held at the intimate Monte Carlo Beach resort with the remarkable landscape of Monte Carlo Bay as background, the fashion house highlighted a workshop, showcasing the best of its talent and craftsmanship, putting their passion for the product at the centre of the action.

At the same time, surrounding the artisans, Fendi displayed a selection of the most iconic of Karl Lagerfeld’s creations from his 54year-long collaboration as one of the creative heads behind the brand.

Later on, dinner was held with all the Fendi family, friends and members of the press around exquisitely dressed tables. Serge Brunschwig, Fendi’s CEO, shared a statement expressing how meaningful it is for Fendi to be present in Monaco and what the new store represents for the brand. Not surprisingly, he brought up the memory of Karl Lagerfeld (who passed in February), as a friend and remarkable Fendi contributor, celebrating the designer’s impact on the house, which will never be forgotten. 

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Successful women in the limelight

"Femme de l'Année, Prix Monte-Carlo held for the eighth timet

By PETRA HALL

Photo Prince Albert between Cinzia Sgambati-Colman (l), sponsor Ornella Barra (r) of Walgreens Boots Alliance, and the three prize winners ©Stéphane Danna, Direction de la Communication Monaco

he "Femme de l'Année, Prix MonteCarlo" initiative is becoming increasingly important in Monaco and beyond.

In May, the event, initiated by the Italian journalist Cinzia Sgambati-Colman, took place for the eighth time in the Principality. Every year, particularly outstanding women are honoured in certain areas. In 2019, inspired by the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci's death, the theme is "Art and Science".

The award ceremony, including a delicious dinner, took place in the impressive Oceanographic Museum, where the winners were presented to the hand-picked guests.

At the end of the soirée, supported by walgreens Boots Alliance, National Council President Stéphane Valérie, Marie Pierre Gramaglia, Monaco's Minister for the Environment and Urban Development, and Ornella Barra of the walgreens Boots Alliance, presented the coveted awards.

Previously, Prince Albert had talked to Cinzia SgambatiColman and the prize-winners during the cocktail so animatedly that he stayed much longer than expected.

Three prizes were awarded: Sougwen Chung received the Prix Monte-Carlo "Femme de l'Année" 2019; Elena Rossoni-Notter the Prix Monte-Carlo "Femme de l'Année" - Monaco and Orlan the special prize for her career.

Sougwen Chung, who has Chinese roots and grew up in Canada and now lives in New York, attracted attention through her artistic work: since 2015 she has been wor-

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Bernard Bezzina exhiBiTs in PennaforT

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king with robots, exploring the connection between human hands and computers. Her activities include film, painting, sculpture, installations and performances.

Chung is an artist in residence at Google and part of the cultural incubator at the New Museum, New Inc. The Monegasque Elena Rossoni-Notter, on the other hand, deals with our past. The director of the Musée d'Archéologie Préhistorique de Monaco was rewarded for her research, commitment and persistence in archaeological discoveries in Monaco. She has been working as an archaeologist since 2014. In 2018, Prince Albert appointed her director of the museum. Her aim is to make treasures accessible to the general public that have never been made public before. Recently, Elena RossoniNotter and her team found ancient human remains in a grotto under the gardens of Saint-Martin. The skull discovered in the process will soon have a face thanks to sophisticated computer programs.

Finally, French avant-gardist Orlan enjoyed the Prix Monte-Carlo "Femme de l'Année"- Spécial for her entire career. Provocation is her elixir of life - be it in art, science or technology. The eccentric artist uses her body to show the complexity of her own identity on her skin. She also created a robot modelled after her, l'ORLANoïde. In 2017, she received an award from the Italian Foreign Office for her work.

The afternoon before the event, the International Agency for Nuclear Energy (AIEA) hosted its second conference on "Art and Science". After an introduction by the AIEA Director of Environmental Laboratories, Professor Roberta Sinatra, archaeology expert Noemi Tillier and restorer Geneviève Berthet discussed counterfeiting in the world of archaeology, restoration and algorithms. 

The master of monumental art at the Hostellerie Les Gorges nyone who loves monumental works should not miss this exhibition: In the star restaurant Hostellerie Les Gorges in Pennafort, the thoroughbred artist Bernard Bezzina is exhibiting his impressive works until January 2020. Prince Albert of Monaco had already hand-signed one of the nine sculptures on display during a visit to Bezzina's studio in Pietrasanta, Tuscany. This will be auctioned on 26 September on the occasion of the 3rd Monte-Carlo Gala for the Global Ocean.

Bernard Bezzina has always been inspired by the concept of "total art". The exhibited works reflect the diversity, originality and innovative ability of this exceptional artist.

Info: www.bezzina-bernard.com

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The tiara as a trademark Empress Josephine already wore a masterpiece by Chaumet for her coronation © Chaumet

By PETRA HALL

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his Monegasque summer, the name Chaumet is on everyone's lips: in June, the strategically clever Paris jeweller, founded in 1780, opened a refined boutique in the Principality of Monaco, and from 12 July to 28 August, it is also hosting an exhibition of Chaumet jewellery at the Grimaldi Forum. The focus will be on the tiara in all its forms - rare treasures, some of which will be presented to the public for the first time.

250 spectacular, mostly historical pieces find their way to Monaco and take the visitor on a journey through the history of the cult jewel of royal circles.

Initially established by Napoleon as a symbol of power, the tiara soon turned into a © Chaumet

© Chaumet

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symbol of radiant femininity. Napoleon's first wife Joséphine wore a tiara for her coronation and thus became the first Chaumet customer.

The new branch in Monaco stands for the philosophy of the tradition-conscious company: Chaumet did not settle in the hip One Monte Carlo, but rather found rooms in the historical complex of the casino and Opera. Mainstream? No, thank you!

Decoration and materials used harmoniously reflect the individuality of the brand. And, of course, the visitor's gaze is magically drawn to the exhibited tiaras among all the magnificent exhibits. The tiara - symbol of the jewellery company founded by Marie-Etienne Nitot almost 250 years ago - or should we say cultural enterprise whose history is mixed with that of France? Over two and a half centuries, a total of 13 creators worked at Place Vendôme, where the heart of the house beats.

From generation to generation, these skilled craftsmen determined the artistic lines of the precious and exceptional timepieces according to their epoch.

It would not be possible without a little entrepreneurial luck, and Nitot had plenty of it: Napoleon's marriages with Joséphine and later with Marie-Louise von HabsburgLothringen gave him plenty of commissions. He became the most sought-after jeweller in Europe and created a prestigious and loyal clientele, to which Napoleon I belonged.

During the Belle époque, the jeweller Joseph Chaumet - known for his extraordinary creativity and inspiration in the beauty of nature - gave the house his name.

To this day, Chaumet's studio bears witness to the unbelievable historical knowhow of its masters - without interruption since 1780. 

WWW.CHAMPAGNE-PORGEON.FR | 03 26 50 29 46

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MONACO YACHT SHOW

MONACO YACHT SHOW

dossier

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Contents What’s new for 2019

26 Heesens Yachts: On the cutting edge of yacht design

28 Only Watch: Creating for a good cause

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The pinnacle of luxury yachting

Preciosa: innovative Bohemian crystal lighting

32 riva: Celebrating 60 years in Monaco

34 The Car Deck: For collectors and enthusiasts only

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© MC Clic

it’s that time of year again, from 25 to 28 September, when Monaco’s Port Hercule swells to the max with the most luxurious yachts, furnishings and purveyors the world has to offer. Here we highlight a few of the noteworthy events and vendors making a splash in 2019, including the biennial charity auction, Only Watch, which showcases unique and precious timepieces auctioned for charity.

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28th Monaco Yacht Show WhaT’s neW for This Year Cocktails, gala dinners, breath-taking yachts!

One of the smallest countries in the world invites you to the world's largest meeting of superyachts.

By ANNIKA BREMICKER

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n 1991, at the very first edition, Port Hercules had 32 yachts with an average length of 31 metres. Today, 28 years later, the dimensions look quite different: over 125 super yachts with an average length of more than 50 metres, 40 of which around are celebrating their worldwide debut. The prices have also changed a bit since 1991…the average value of the exhibited yachts this year is a remarkable 27 million euros.

From 25 to 28 September, the luxury superyacht trade fair will take place in and around the main port of Monaco and, as usual, Riviera Insider will be present as a press partner with its own stand; come find us at PP 60. Immerse yourself in the fascinating universe of luxury yachting!

Each year the organizers of the Monaco Yacht Show outdo themselves, raising the bar for each successive year. Today more than ever, the MYS is all about promoting the "superyacht lifestyle" through tailor-made experiences for a high-end clientele. "we are working to bring the most prestigious superyacht event closer to the new generation of customers," confirms Gaëlle Tallarida, General Manager of MYS. The focus should be on true interested parties and potential buyers, and the programme should manage the balancing act between entertainment and professional promotion. And so, come September, a wide range of opporJulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

Dream yachts like the "Laurel" will be exhibited in September at the monaco yacht show. © Jonathan Glynn-Smith / Ocean Independence

tunities will be presented once again: There will be the yachts, of course, but also an exciting high-speed cruise and exhibitors presenting everything that can be of interest in yachting including carbon fibre e-bikes, electric surfboards and mini-submarines.

At the "Car Deck" exhibition, luxury cars have also found their place in the show, matching luxury yachts. And for those looking for a personal atmosphere with champagne and fine food for networking or talking business, the Upper Deck Lounge is where to be. The VIP lounge reserved exclusively for Sapphire Experience guests, Monaco Yacht Summit participants and yacht owners has been enlarged to span over two floors.

Behind Sapphire Experience and Monaco Yacht Summit, organizers have been busy to improve the MYS experience. Building on the feedback from year-round contact between MYS and yacht builders, brokers and industry, the two offerings are tailored to the needs of customers. Panel discussions with recognized industry experts and the opportunity to meet with specialists in person accompany premium customers as they take their first steps

into the world of yachting.

In order to perfect this high-class experience, this year's aim is to ensure better circulation around the quays and tents - with fewer visitors making it a more rewarding experience.

The Monaco Yacht Show will end on Saturday at 7pm with a foghorn concert of 125 superyachts, marking the end of the show and announcing the upcoming 30th edition of the show in September 2020. 

GET MYS PASSES WITH RIVIERA INSIDER! We are offering a limited number of one-day passes to our subscribers. enter to win a pass and then join us at our stand for a glass of rosé from Château de l'aumérade or a coup of Porgeon Champagne!

To enter, send an e-mail with the subject "MYS" to secretariat@riviera-press.fr See you there!

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HEESEN YACHTS All photos courtesy of Heesen Yachts © D.R.

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f you’re in the market for a yacht charter this summer with an elegant yet home from home touch, there are few more stylish options available than Irisha.

One of the latest offerings from iconic Dutch shipyard Heesen, the 51 metre fully custom motor yacht is another level in terms of discreet streamlined design, boasting a luxe yet ultimately cosy feel.

Launched to much industry acclaim at last year’s Monaco Yacht Show, this inspired feat of mechanical engineering coupled with a cutting-edge fighter jet style exterior silhouette was brought to fruition in partnership with Heesen and prestigious Londonbased designers and architects Harrison Eidsgaard.

It’s the latest in an impressive roll call of Superyacht development for the multi awardwinning shipyard, which was established in Oss in 1978 by Frans Heesen. The company started 2019 with 13 yachts under construction, five of which launch this year.

Heesen has an illustrious history. In 1988 they built Octopussy, the 38m yacht which was the fastest luxury yacht in the world at the time, with a speed of 50 knots. Having celebrated their 40th anniversary last year, the yard’s constantly evolving investment in innovation and research has led to a healthy growth in their main market of 50 – 80m new builds.

‘In 2018 the market in our core segments grew slightly, which is a good sign for us, and last year was a very good year,” says Heesen CEO Arthur Brouwer. ‘we see a stable and slowly growing number of serious custoJulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

On the cutting edge of yacht design

By KAREN HOCKNEY

riviera

mers and our expectation for 2019 is that it will continue to grow. The biggest market is the 40m to 60m bracket and we are still active there.’

Heesen was the first shipyard to implement the revolutionary Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF), then the hull vane and are pioneers in silent cruise with hybrid propulsion technology. Their USP is in delivering truly bespoke design, with each yacht custom-built to the highest standards of luxury and performance while also reflecting their owner’s individuality.

irisha Back to the beautiful Irisha, whose brief was driven by the owner’s desire for a “fairly aggressive and dynamic” yacht. One of her most impressive features is the sporty raised wheelhouse, constructed of 3D curved glass sheets which are among the largest produced in Europe. with a snow white top and a midnight blue main deck, the hull features a custom metallic colour Pacific Blue which in sunlight changes dramatically from metallic blue to dark olive-green hues.

But the fundamental purpose of Irisha is as a sleek and inviting hub in which to enjoy the company of family and friends in some of the world’s most exclusive destinations along with wonderful wine and food. To that end, natural materials like wood and leather combined with varying textiles create a snug yet utterly stylish enclave in which to kick back and relax.

The wraparound sofa on the beach club-style lower deck is a great spot to hang out while the neutral colour scheme of beige, blue and grey provides a calming palette for busy minds. wow factors include the sky lounge with a cinema screen and projector perfect for al fresco film nights with an adjacent wet bar

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adding a touch of glamour to this ultimate chill-out zone.

A spectacular indoor-outdoor winter garden with sliding glass doors dominates the main deck, featuring a living area with a generous dining table which can seat up to 22 guests (the five staterooms can accommodate 10 guests). An open staircase connects the upper and lower decks and full-length glass doors flood the interior with light.

The pièce de la resistance in the Owner’s stateroom is a stunning hand-felted silk bedhead designed by Dutch artist and textile designer Claudy Jongstra. A private French balcony with sliding glass doors means you never have to miss out on the views while the stateroom bathroom offers his and hers walk-in wardrobes and an unusual wengé bathtub with onyx and marble throughout.

home Another charter option is Heesen’s most innovative hybrid yacht of 2017, Home. This 50m vision of excellence and chic contemporary design was the first to pair FDHF with hybrid propulsion, offering fuel efficiency and quiet cruising. Her eco-friendly exterior design was recognised by HSH Prince Albert of Monaco and Home has scooped no less than five international awards over the last two years.

Leading Italian interior designer Cristiano Gatto’s brief was for a relaxed beach club vibe with seamless connections between the interior and exterior areas. The team delivered using natural materials with minimum artificial treatments and the stunning result is a high tech, minimalistic boutique hotel ambience which boasts one VIP cabin, two doubles and two twins (sleeping 12), while not forgetting the all- important creature comforts.  www.heesenyachts.com.

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ONLY WATCH

Making time for a good cause

Luc Pettavino © Gian Marco Castelberg

The world-renowned biennial charity auction of luxury timepieces is back this year with fifty mesmerizing one-of-a-kind watches specially made by the finest manufacturers.

BALANCE SHEET Revenue from Only Watch auctions: 2005: 1,9 Million euro 2007: 2,7 Million euro 2009: 2,2 Million euro 2011: 4,4 Million euro 2013: 5 Million euro 2015: 10 Million euro 2017: 9,5 Million euro

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nly watch has become one of the world’s most highly regarded events in the watch industry for private collectors, donors and aficionados of unique and rare timekeepers. The Only watch world tour starts at the Monaco Yacht Show and continues around the world until going under the hammer at Christie’s in Geneva on 9 November.

Taking place every two years since 2005, this exceptional auction challenges the most famous watchmakers to create for a good cause. The result has been a remarkable success by any measure, raising more than €35 million to help finance research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a variation of the degenerative muscular disease that affects one in 2,500 boys worldwide.

Luc Pettavino, former director of MYS, is the founder of Only watch and the co-founder of the Monegasque Association against Muscular dystrophy (AMM). He has been working since 2001 to fund and help find therapeutic solutions for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition that afflicted his son Paul, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 21. In this interview, Luc talks about the success of Only watch, advances in the fight against DMD and his vision for the future.

What is the key to your success?

The key to success is that Only watch is collectively “owned” by people with a genuine desire to work together to fight DMD. Only watch is not about one person, one auction house, one brand, or even one industry. So many people contribute to this success, all of whom are motivated by a sense of altruism, empathy, and philanthropy. Together we celebrate doing something good and positive.

My mission is to coordinate our collective efforts to achieve the best results. I view my role as the conductor of an orchestra of worldclass musicians, and my goal is to ensure that the musicians give their best to create a truly magnificent performance.

And we are fortunate and privileged to have the unfailing support of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. His long-term commitment and presence at sales and biennial launches have been key to this success.

How have you advanced research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

What are the most important advances?

DMD is a severe form of degenerative neuromuscular disease. It is due to a mutation in DNA, which makes scarce a protein essential to muscles called dystrophin. Scientists are exploring several avenues, including an ‘antisense molecule,’ a kind of artificial DNA capable of repairing the mutation. This promising approach has received several million Euros in funding from AMM. when facing a disease like DMD, efficiency must rule. when I made my initial contact

with researchers, I discovered their needs were quite different from those I imagined. For example, before discussing financial resources, scientists wanted the opportunity to network with their peers so that they could share advances in pre-clinical research. This was the genesis for the Monaco Round Tables on Myopathies and the International Collaborative Effort for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy program. Our coordinated approach has made it possible to create and consolidate relations between the various international research centres with expertise in the field of DMD. Today, the efforts — and the hopes — of the Monegasque Association against Myopathies focus on gene therapy.

100% of fundraising is paid for research. Explain to us your method.

Only watch’s organization costs never exceed 1%, and this balance is often paid by sponsors.

The pitch to watchmakers and partners is straightforward: If you agree to participate in Only watch, it means no fees, commissions, or costs paid by the charity, a full commitment in the search for excellence, and no signed contracts. It’s like the old days when a person’s word and their altruistic attitudes were enough. And that approach works to this day.

What is your vision and goal for Only Watch?

Only watch is both strong and fragile. Since there are no signed contracts, there’s no obligation to be part of it. So, after each event I must be the first one “possessed” with new energy, which encourages our participants and partners to continue their involvement with enthusiasm.

For instance, in 2017, I proposed that the watchmakers, in addition to the unique watches they offered, linked their cultural heritage with a unique experience. Half of them followed up on this idea and offered dinners in magical venues, VIP invitations to a spin in a vintage Formula One car, fashion shows, art festivals, yacht shows, charity galas and film festivals. These unforgettable experiences bring new energy to the event and attract more participants.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by the quest to cure this disease and the feeling of unity between human beings when they come together and create beauty to do good. I am inspired by the search of originality and meaning that broaden our horizons and open our minds, by the resilience of humans following diseases, by the majesty and quiet strength of a 300-year-old cedar tree, by the joyous, therapeutic vibrations of nature in general, and forests in particular. I am also inspired by our dear son Paul who left us in the prime of his life. Paul made Only watch possible. Thank you, Paul; thank you for everything.  www.onlywatch.com

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 Photo 1

Asteria features an elegant and timeless design © D.R.  Photo 2

Argo's bold design embodies the strength of the sea © D.R.  Photo 3

Pearl Wave is specially designed for yachts © D.R.  Photo 4

SeAnne, stunning lighting installation for yachts © D.R.

PRECIOSA Innovative Bohemian crystal lighting

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reciosa Lighting is one of the world’s leading producers of bespoke chandeliers. Using traditional craftsmanship of Bohemian crystal combined with cutting edge technology, Preciosa designs lighting concepts for luxury yachts, cruise ships and other watercraft that set a new standard for on-board brilliance.

Challenging sea conditions pose no limitations to ambitious lighting projects when an experienced team of designers, design engineers, and the best technologies come together. The design process includes solutions that help isolate all possible sources of resonation in metal and glass parts, even in comJulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

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plex installations composed of thousands of trimmings. This means every lighting design is ready to sail from the moment installation is complete.

Preciosa offers a selection of chandeliers specifically designed for yachts. The company also works with yacht and cruise ship builders and designers to design bespoke lighting and other elements for boats including wall lights, decorative objects, floor or furniture inlays as well as various options for columns and balustrades.

The company is looking forward to participating in the Monaco Yacht Show for the fifth year in a row. They plan to showcase a special maritime installation inspired by one of their Signature Designs.

Interactive lighting At the 2018 Monaco Yacht Show, Preciosa debuted its award-winning interactive installation, Pearl wave. Pearl wave is made from more than 700 handmade triplex opal spheres, suspended on gold finished metal rods. The playful chandelier reacts to the happiness surrounding it; when glasses are cheered in a toast, Pearl wave responds with a burst, or two, of light. The simple act of clinking glasses brings the chandelier to life.

The distinctive SeAnne installation is inspired by the movement of the waves. SeAnne shimmers thanks to its crystal components which have been frosted from the outside but remain clear on the inside. Each piece is individually fixed in place to create a mesmerizing wave-like effect. For those who long for the night sky, Nebula’s designer was moved by the brilliance of stargazing from a ship’s deck. The light is constructed from fused glass with varying colours of chips. The mix of sparkling colours and bright points of light give it a celestial feel.

As all yacht lovers know, the sea is a force of nature, producing a power and energy that is

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awe-inspiring and impressive. That strength is embodied in Argo’s bold design. A shimmering sheen of crystal evokes the infinite movement and unyielding strength of the sea while filling a room with lustre and brightness. It is an elegant addition to any luxurious space. Asteria, on the other hand, is an artistic installation, reminiscent of a calm sea on a rainy day. The light’s reflective base mimics a still pool of water while the overlaid rings echo a moment as fleeting as a raindrop on the water. The timeless and elegant design is also one-of-a-kind because of the unique combination of individual elements and the crystal mosaics in the rings.

From spectacular chandeliers to intimate wall and decorative lighting, Preciosa’s Maritime team creates amazing lighting designs ready to sail the seven seas. 

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riva: 60 years in Monaco THE ITALIAN BOAT DESIGNER CELEBRATES THEIR DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY

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iva - for many, the most beautiful boats in the world. Originally founded in Italy in 1842, Riva celebrates its diamond anniversary in Monaco this year.

For exactly 60 years, Riva's chic iconic style has been pulsating in the heart of the principality, in a tunnel under la Rocher.

In 1959, the legendary boat maker opened as Monaco Boat Service. The link between Riva and Monaco was established by the famous, recently deceased engineer Carlo Riva, who saw the mythical glamour of Monaco as the perfect link to the launch of Riva's "la dolce vita" on the Côte d'Azur.

Over the years, the Riva family made Monaco their home and cultivated a close friendship

with the Monaco royal family.

After decades of staying within their traditional design, 2019 marks the beginning of a new era for boat maker, with the creation of its own superyacht department. In March, Riva introduced "Race," its first 50-metre superyacht. Race made her official debut at the Venice Boat Show in June before heading to the Monaco Yacht Show in September.

As befits a diamond jubilee, the Monaco Boat Service will celebrate throughout the year with special events and partnerships. The perfect time to officially celebrate the 60th anniversary, however, is undoubtedly at the Monaco Yacht Show, with a fabulous birthday event on the quay of Port Hercules. 

© Riva

eco angels KEEPING THE PORT CLEAN FROM MYS WASTE

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he Monaco Yacht Show brings nearly 40,000 visitors to Port Hercules, and no matter how much waste is avoided and prevented, it’s inevitable that bits of trash and plastic bottles wind up on the ground, which could then easily blow into the sea.

For a few years now, American Kate Powers, the co-founder of the Port Hercules restaurant and sports bar Stars’N’Bars, has been organising teams of volunteers to clean up the port after major events in the Principality. Eco Angels participate in all the large events, including the Formula One Grand Prix.

During the MYS, Eco Angels visit every stand to pass out biodegradable sacs donated from the Port Authority. They are easily seen with their bright pick Eco Angles t-shirts and the large garbage bags in hand. At the end of the show, when the horns and whistles blow, the crew of Eco Angels stop wherever they were to pick up litter. Last year, the clean-up crews collected over 100 bags of rubbish, thus preventing numerous pieces of plastic from winding up in the sea. This year, keep an eye out for these local angels, helping to keep the Monaco harbour clean. 

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Brabus 800 Widestar based on G63

Shelby Cobra 427 roadster

The Car Deck For collectors and enthusiasts only exhibition of supercars and customised vehicles at the Monaco Yacht Show

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ince 2016, well-thought-of automakers and niche brands of tailor-made and customised cars and motorbikes meet up at the Car Deck exhibition of the Monaco Yacht Show.

This September, connoisseurs of fine machinery will be enthralled by the thirty or so stunning models on full display on Quai Antoine 1er.

Brabus will be come again with a range of converted Mercedes-Benz cars. The German specialists in the transformation of vehicles from the three-pointed star brand will also exhibit ultra-exclusive and exciting powerboats via their subsidiary Brabus Marine.

Collectors of MBZ classic cars will also enjoy the distinguished selection of genuine vintage cars from the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. Displayed on the Car Deck by “All Time Stars by Mercedes-Benz Classic”, the cars will be available for sale.

Lovers of classic American muscle cars will be dazzled by the genuine Shelby models back again in Monaco. Gentleman Car, the exclusive dealer in Europe, will display the time-honoured CS GT40 MKI and the legendary Cobra 289 FIA and Cobra 427 roadsters, hand-crafted with total respect for the spirit of the original models.

If you’re going to give your old sports car new life, you should entrust it to LLM-Mecasport located on the illustrious motor-racing JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

Redesigned passenger compartment by Z’Art

circuit at Spa-Francorchamps. The Belgian garage specialises in the restoration of prestige cars and especially classic Porsche cars, without ever distorting the authenticity of the model. LLM-Mecasport will exhibit the personalised Porsche 911 3.0L RSR and 1977 Porsche 911 2.7L Targa on the Car Deck.

The Heritage Collection by Overfinch, leading creator of bespoke Range Rover vehicles since 1975, will make its worldwide debut at the MYS. The British brand will display customised versions of the iconic Land Rover and Range Rover models.

Garage Hotel will certainly appeal to passionate drivers of iconic cars visiting the MYS. The company builds state-of-the-art replicas of storied models like the Cobra or GT40 and Lola T76 for amazing road trip itineraries.

New to the Car Deck, Z’Art redesigns the passenger compartment of luxury cars. Leading player in automotive tuning on the Russian market with 140 expert technicians who work on top-flight passenger VIPlounges inside SUVs and business minivans, Z’Art will exhibit a range of its latest custo-

mised creations to MYS visitors.

Titan Motorcycle Co will find their place at this year’s Car Deck and unveil their jawdropping retro-styled bikes. The Austrianbased company will present one-off customised models including the Titan Bavarian Bobber BMw R50-3, Titan Xaver BMw K100, Titan One Honda CB350 and Titan BlueFalcon YamahaMT-01.

Located alongside the MYS Starboard lounge and the Tenders & Toys exhibition areas on Quai Antoine Ier, this 2019 Car Deck will feature a diversified collection of thrilling streamlined vehicles. Some of them will be available for test drives by MYS premium visitors. 

car deck exhibition 25 - 28 September 11 am – 7.30 pm Quai Antoine Ier entrance Access with valid MYS badge www.myscardeck.com

Ca Deck Car Deck EXHIBIT TION OF TA AILOR-MADE VEHICLES AND HYPERCARS O IN THE DESIGN OF CUSTOMIZED MODELS OR AT T THE MONACO YA ACHT SHOW

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how do you use the sand?

The use of sand creates depth, texture and interesting abstract effects when combined with other media (no brushes used). The inspiration to use it came from observing rocks, coral and natural patterns and designs created by the surface of crumbling house walls. I wanted to bring the sea to the viewer, connect and share it and seal it in the paintings.

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Where do you get the sand?

Susie Barrow S

I collect sand from the beach and footpaths locally. It’s my way of uniting the two together - land & sea.

By NICOLE RUSKELL

What gives you the greatest inspiration to paint these scenes? whilst adjusting to my new life in Vernazza, the sea became a source of peace, tranquillity and nourishment.

Regular early swims freely floating in silence in sync with the fish became a form of meditation for me. I've always been drawn to the sea -into its deep and mysterious depths. I have a lot of respect for it - the contrast it offers - from the peace and tranquillity to the force of its powerful waves. 

usie Barrow is an English painter who lives in the mountains of the Cinque Terre National Park. She left Brighton for the village of Vernazza 16 years ago after falling in love with its raw, rugged nature. She has since dedicated her work to capturing the light, the colours and the movement of the sea, its wildlife and the beauty of the land that borders it. Riviera Insider spoke with Susie about what inspires her gorgeous underwater series.

Painting the Ligurian sea  Photo 1

Camouflage © D.R.  Photo 2

Underwater fish © D.R.  Photo 3

Union © D.R.

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www.susiebarrow.com

What is it about liguria that attracted you?

I love the natural beauty of Liguria, its simplicity and rustic feel. I adore nature so living in the countryside and yet being so close to the sea I feel really privileged to have the best of both worlds.

in your underwater series, you’re able to capture the rays of light coming through the azure water. What inspired those images?

Early morning swims in the still waters of Vernazza's harbour first inspired me years ago to snorkel around the coast(sometimes being towed along on a rope by boat) and observing the colours ,sea life and the bright rays of light that penetrated the water - illuminating everything in an almost heavenly way. The memory of that feeling of peace still fills me up now.

Seeing the bright sunlight sparkle on the sea seemed like 'dancing diamonds.' I use sand and gesso now to help create this effect.

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Blue Flag Beaches LIGURIA AGAIN BEST IN CLASS The prestigious environmental flags awarded annually by the Foundation for environmental education (Fee) will fly in 183 itaian coastal towns, 72 leisure ports and 17 bathing lagoons in 2019. in Liguria there are 30, three more than in 2018, adding imperia, riva Ligure and Sanremo.

Liguria has reason to cheer again: As it has for years, the region again received the most "Bandiere Blu" in 2019 - followed by Tuscany and Campania. Because the communities that are allowed to adorn themselves with this award are registering a higher number of visitors each time due to the blue flags and a corresponding economic boost. Imperia's mayor Claudio Scajola, whose city was chosen for the first time in 2019 along with Riva Ligure and Sanremo, was delighted: "we are very proud to have made it at the first attempt. I'm sure that our tourism will experience boost."

Among the newcomers in Liguria are the leisure ports of Go Imperia and Marina di Loano.

The criteria required by the FEE, which was founded in 1987 and is based in Denmark, are extensive and the municipalities have to spend a lot of time and money to meet them. These include sea water quality, beach cleanliness, disabled access, pedestrian zones, cycle paths and environmental friendliness in all areas.

The number of distinguished locations in Liguria have now reached thirty.

The following are the Blue Flag beaches by province:

© Zocchi Roberto / Shutterstock.com

© Luca Rei / Shutterstock.com

© Oleg Voronische / Shutterstock.com

© Alberto Masnovo / Shutterstock.com

Province of Imperia

Province of Savona

Province of Genoa

Province of La Spezia

Bordighera (Zona Ovest of Capo Sant'Ampelio, Zona Est of Capo Sant'Ampelio); Sanremo (Rio Foce, Tre Ponti, Imperatrice Corso Marconi, Bussana); Taggia (Arma di Taggia); Riva Ligure (Ex Bungalow); Santo Stefano al Mare (Baia Azzurra, Il Vascello); San Lorenzo al Mare (U'Nustromu/Prima Punta, Baia delle Vele); Imperia (Spianata Borgo Peri, Borgo Prino Foce, Borgo Marina).

Ceriale, Borghetto Santo Spirito, Loano, Pietra Ligure (Ponente), Finale Ligure (Malpasso-Baia dei Saraceni, Finalmarina, Finalpia, Spiaggia al porto, Varigotti, Castelletto San Donato), Noli (Capo Noli-Zona Vittoria-Zona Anita-Chiariventi), Spotorno (Lido), Bergeggi (Il Faro, Villaggio del Sole), Savona (Fornaci), Albissola Marina (Lido), Albisola Superiore (Lido), Celle Ligure (Levante & Ponente) and Varazze (Arrestra, Ponente Teiro, Levante Teiro, Piani D'Invrea).

Camogli (Camogli Centro Levante, San Fruttuoso), Santa Margherita Ligure (Scogliera Pagana, Punta Pedale, Paraggi, Milite Ignoto), Chiavari (Gli Scogli), Lavagna (Lungomare) and Moneglia (Centrale/La Secca/Levante).

Framura (Fornaci, Spiaggia La Vallà-Apicchi), Bonassola (east and west), Levanto (Ghiararo, Spiaggia Est La Pietra, Casinò), Lerici (Lido, San Giorgio, Eco del Mare, Fiascherino, Baia Blu, Colombo) and Ameglia (Fiumaretta).

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Salvador Dalí A surreal genious Monaco pays homage to the Spanish master at the Grimaldi Forum’s summer exhibition from July to September, showing around 100 of Dalí’s works.

By AILA STöCKMANN

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Salvador Dalí paints in the olive grove in Portlligat, 1948 © Batlles- Compte, Salvador Dalí's image rights reserved. Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, Figueres, 2019

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Salvador Dalí, Dematerialization near Nero's nose, 1947, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, Figueres © Salvador Dalí, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí / Adagp, Paris 2019

Salvador Dalí, Enigmatic Elements in a Landscape, 1934, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, Figueres © Salvador Dalí, Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí / Adagp, Paris 2019

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alí? It is often the strikingly twirled moustache tips that first appear in the mind’s eye when one thinks of the artist. The Spaniard, who died 30 years ago, mastered self-staging so well that even today his actual work sometimes disappears behind his person.

The fact that this does not do justice to the painter is the starting point of the exhibition that can be seen this summer in the

Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.

38 paintings, 28 drawings and photos from Salvador Dalí's life - made between 1910 and 1983 - travel to the principality. Most of the loans come from three museums: the Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation in Figueres, the National Museum Centro de Arte Reina Sofía in Madrid, and the Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida.

The depth of the painter (1904-1989), who was "constantly ahead of his time", is often underestimated, says Montse Aguer, director of the Dalí Museums. She conceived the exhibition together with the Grimaldi Forum team. The art historian, who holds a doctorate, met the artist personally, she tells RI in an interview, and above all was enthusiastic about his extraordinary technique, his imagination and the enigmatic elements in Dalí's pictures: "I love the provocation in his works!”

She understands the supposed narcissism of the Catalan as shyness towards people and the attempt to create a protective mask for himself. Yes, he and his wife Gala did attach great importance to appearances, such as chic clothes, says Montse Aguer. "In fact, he wanted everyone's attention, but he tried to draw them to his painting. Dalí also made use of the mass media for this early on.”

In the Monaco exhibit, the Dalí connoisseur leads the public chronologically through his work.

Thus his development becomes understandable, influences of other painters and currents on his work become apparent.

Dalí was involved everywhere: His impressionist phase was followed by the cubist phase. This was followed by the surrealist phase anchored in collective memory with motifs that he elicits from the unconscious, the dream world. Clocks and crutches are recurring subjects of the painting method he baptized "criticallyparanoid".

In the classical period that followed in the 1940s and 1950s, Dalí's passion for art history and his enthusiasm for the masters of the Renaissance were revealed. Supported by his wife and muse Gala, he intensively studied his role models Jan Vermeer, Raffael, Velásquez and Leonardo da Vinci.

And finally, American art movements captivated the curious painter throughout his life in the seventies. He became friends with Andy warhol and Pop Art became his last playground.

In addition to a replica of his imaginary "ideal studio", Dalí's reference to the Côte d'Azur is also discussed in the Grimaldi Forum: Visitors can discover photographs of the artist with the then Monegasque Princess Grace Patricia as well as snapshots of him in Coco Chanel's villa "La Pausa" at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. By the way, he also painted a few pictures there - including one that is shown in the exhibition:

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the gloomy landscape "Violette impérial" from 1938, which reflects his concern before the war.

Throughout his life, elements in Dalí's pictures recall the rocky bay of the small fishing port, Portlligat in the far northwest of Spain and the view of the offshore island, the light and the shadows it cast. Here Dalí had grown up, where he would always return and come to rest. The house, which he gradually expanded from old fishermen's cottages and lived in until the death of Gala in 1982, is now open to the public.

Death was also an obsession for Dalí - and his longing for immortality. The theme began with his birth: Dalí was born nine months after the death of his brother, who was born three years before him. He was given the same first name as his brother and probably looked for his own identity all his life. 

Montse Aguer © Pere Duran

“DALÍ, UNE HISTOIRE DE LA PEINTURE” The exhibition can be seen at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco from 6 July to 8 September. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.,

Thursdays until 10 p.m. admission: 11 euro

www.grimaldiforum.com

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Walking V back in time Villa E-1027 painstakingly restored

By NICOLE RUSKELL

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“CORBUSIER THOUGHT IT A GREAT IDEA TO MURAL OVER HER PRISTINE wHITE wALLS. AN ACT THAT DISGUSTED HER TO NO END.”

illa E-1027 has a checkered and painful past. Originally designed as a private love nest, it has been abandoned by its creator, vandalised by a famous artist and left for ruin for decades. But the world has become fascinated by it because of its significance to early-modern architecture, its many innovative built-in ‘tricks’ and the fact that the architect was a woman, at a time when women weren’t even supposed to wear trousers.

Eileen Gray (1878 - 1976) was an enigmatic Irish woman who many people still can’t quite figure out. She was eccentric, brilliant, reclusive, ingenious and only sought peace and serenity. She designed E-1027 as a respite and hideaway for herself and her partner, Jean Badovici, himself an architect and editor of the architecture magazine “L’Architecture

Vivante”.

Unfortunately, their partnership was rockier than the cliffs below the house. He loved having friends over, especially his famous friend, Jean Corbusier, and she wanted seclusion. Gray wound up leaving Badovici and her specifically designed home to build another one even better suited to her. It was a few years after her departure that Corbusier thought it a great idea to mural over Eileen’s pristine white walls. An act that disgusted her to no end - but could have been what saved the building from destruction.

Perched on a cliff just off Roquebrune-CapMartin, Villa E-1027 is now part of the Cap Moderne complex, which includes the neighbouring camping bungalows designed

by Corbusier and the étoile de Mer bar and restaurant. The complex is now classified as

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seen in archival photos, with a period coal oven and original water filtration system. At the eastern end of the living room, the ingenious folding bar has been reconstructed next to the alcove reserved for the dining room. The lemon box designed Eileen has found its place, ready to receive the fruits of the many lemon trees she planted on the terraces of the garden.

The drawing table, identical to the original, will be installed this summer in the designer's work studio.

The mobile furniture in the villa are works by Aram Design, while the fixed furniture has all been rebuilt by specialized craftsmen in France and Austria for the Association Cap Moderne in accordance with the original plans and photos. The goal of the association is to return the villa as faithfully as possible to the designs of Eileen Gray in 1929.

a historical monument and listed as a UNESCO heritage site.

The villa’s strange name, E-1027 isn’t for the parcel number - it is actually a numerological play on their names, with E for Eileen, 10 for J (the 10th letter in the alphabet), 2 for B (for Badovici) and 7 for G (for Gray).

For the last several years, the villa has gone through painstaking restoration to bring the very humble abode back to a solid existence.

Owned by the Conservatoire du Littoral, the Cap Moderne site has been open to the public since 2015, and gradually restored at the initiative of the Cap Moderne Association, chaired by Michael Likierman along with the support of the City of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

The restoration effort has slowly been rebuilding, re-creating and restoring each section of the house. This past winter, the kitchen was completely restored to its original state, as

The exhibition "Encounters by the sea: E-1027, Starfish, Cabanon at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin" is open to the public until October 31, 2019. It will retrace the "modern" life that took place in 1930s on the banks of the Mediterranean.

The exhibition will use photographs from the period as well as handwritten documents and press clippings that will allow the visitor to imagine what this life was like, restoring itself to its original state.

Throughout the summer, jazz concerts, meetings, workshops for children and conferences, are organized by the cultural association "Eileen Gray. Starfish. Le Corbu-

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sier".

Additionally, each year, Cap Moderne offers dinners in the garden of Villa E-1027, a magical evening with an exceptional view of Monaco's fireworks display. The dates are: Saturday, 20 & 27 July and 3 & 10 August. Part of the price is donated to the site restoration fund.

From late October to early May, the site is closed to the public, allowing the continuation of the restoration. 

VISIT CAP MODERNE visits are only possible with a guided tour, offered twice a day (10 a.m. and 2 p.m.) until the end of September.

The 2-hour visit costs 18 euros. Meeting point is at the reception directly opposite the station Cap-Martin roquebrune. reservation: contact@capmoderne.com

CONCERTS Throughout July and august, villa e1027 has a lovely cultural and jazz concert series in the garden. Tickets start at €15. Check their website for details: www.capmoderne.com

The main room designed by Eileen Gray. © Manuel Bougot

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Tender is the Night  Photo 1

The novel that started it all.

Photo courtesy of Peter Harrington Limited © D.R.  Photo 2

Redolent of the hat Mia Farrow wore in The Great Gatsby and the one that Kristen Scott Thomas wore in Under a Cherry Moon - which was filmed on the Cap D'Antibes. Souna shiny silver sequin bucket hat, Maison Michel © D.R.

“Tender is the Night” is the novel that continues to define the riviera of our imagination and this summer riviera insider looks to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece for inspiration on recreating the Côte d’azur’s golden age.

By SARAH HYDE

 Photo 3

Chanel Souna, shiny sequin bucket hat. © D.R.  Photo 4

RIVIERA Centenary Luggage set (Pink Lemonade Ivory), prices start from £810 Globe Trotter © D.R.  Photo 5

Scherzo & Tender Perfume by Miller Harris London © D.R.

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onsidered one of the quintessential books of the French Riviera, a little known fact about the novel is that it was actually completed five years after the Fitzgeralds left the Côte d’Azur – far from the glitz and glamour it is so famous for. Fitzgerald was living in a rented house in Baltimore close to the mental hospital in which his wife Zelda, who was by now seriously ill, was receiving treatment. This multi-generational best-seller, which still sells out today, was written in a sort of somber exile after the devastating wall Street crash of 1929.

The villa the Fitzgeralds rented in Cap d’Antibes for two

summers is now The Hotel Belle Rives and remarkably it was here that the first draft of “The Great Gastby” was completed. It’s nice to imagine that one day Fitzgerald raised his eyes from his desk, gazing at a flashing green starboard light, trying to decipher its pulse when inspiration struck…

Perhaps modern “tenders” would have a pair of deck chairs on the beach at sunset, rather than listening to scratchy jazz on a horn gramophone to the accompanying shush-shush of the cocktail shaker. Despite Fitzgeralds’ protestations, it is not possible to travel to the past - although with a little help, the spirit remains. 

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Szczesny totale Artist Stefan Szczesny conquers the village of Les Bauxde-Provence and keeps it occupied for one summer.

Before the village is completely flooded by the tourists who pour in daily since June, it has already experienced a very special, artistic conquest: Stefan Szczesny. The Munich-born cosmopolitan who has lived in Saint Tropez for years, has come to make the village a stage for a quantitatively and qualitatively impressive art show. By ALFRED THUM his medieval village offers undreamt-of, rich possibilities for the presentation of art - and amazingly - of modern art. It gathers everything that belongs to a genuine Provençal village: an imposing castle ruin on the top of the mountain and a settlement that stretches along the foot of the mountain on a road called Grande Rue leading to the Town Hall and finally to a square with a chapel and a church. All the houses are in plain light grey of the surrounding stone. The town hall itself is built in Renaissance style, the other houses could be much older. when the visitor arrives below the castle ruins, at village level, he is greeted by a fanfare of modern sculpture. Along a road that is more like a plateau, larger-than-life sculptures are lined up, which seem to stage the festival of life. They are painted in vivid, strong colours and show palm trees and other tropical plants as motifs - and people who live in harmony with these plants. They are two and three-dimensional hermaphroditic sculptures: they are initially cut out of metal plates, i.e. two-dimensional, but are then often combined with other figures in an oblique sequence so that they end up appearing three-dimensional. They look light and airy because they are only silhouettes, but in reality they are of course quite heavy and anchored in massive pedestals so that

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Sczesny at the Town Hall. © D.R.

Large magenta and yellow sculpture. © D.R.

they can withstand the Provencal Mistral.

The subsequent stroll through the village becomes a voyage of discovery in the artist's footsteps. In several places, half-hidden courtyards open up, showing, for example, Szczesny's latest paintings in the open air, using, of course, materials and colours that can withstand the weather. In another such courtyard, photos showing himself are lined up. These are particularly successful photographs by well-known photographers, biopics in other words, that show him in the various phases of his life and work.

It begins with photos from the artist's early years in Germany, when he was part of the group The New wild Ones. These "wildly" determined innovators had revolutionized the painting style of that time. Their exhibitions caused a sensation. The participating artists suddenly became known.

The "main artery" of the village, the Grande Rue, leads into the middle of the village to the town hall, the Maison "Manville". A sculpture by Szczesny, three metres high and specially created for this square, awaits the visitor. Large vases are set up in two arched side niches. You can see how skilfully the artist stages his works of art, so the staging itself becomes part of the work of art.

From the inner courtyard of the town hall, a

Seris of Szczesny sculptures at village entrance © D.R.

door opens into an exhibition room that is itself worth seeing with its arched vaults.

There are glass sculptures set up, which Szczesny recently had produced in Venice by a congenial glass sculptor under his guidance. The most diverse possibilities of forming glass at a correspondingly high temperature have been used: for example, mouth blowing, but also letting the glass be pulled down using gravity, and the participation of the artist in the process. The presentation on pedestals of the same height and white with the discreetly coloured background of this Renaissance vault allows the glass sculptures to take full effect in all their colourful splendour.

All in all, we are dealing with an exhibition project of unusual dimensions. It was only possible because there was a synergy between the Mayor of Les Baux on the one hand and the artist and his team (the "Szczesny-Factory") on the other. The use of creativity and practical labour, of machines and other means was enormous. Bringing the large sculptures to this place, setting them up and making them windproof required a great deal of effort. The result is unique. To turn an entire village into a stage for one's art is something that no one is able to imitate in Szczesny's time. 

SZCZESNY LES BAUX-DE-PROVENCE The exhibition is open throughout the summer, until 15 October. admission is free.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a catalogue and individual exhibition locations within the village are well marked on the exhibition poster. www.stefanszczesny.com infoszczesny@orange.fr

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Agenda Exhibitions not to miss

By SARAH HYDE

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 Photo 1

We are contents at Mamo,

by Alex-Israel © D.R.  Photo 2

Illustrative sketch of an evening set, autumn-winter haute couture collection 1977, Musée YSLParis © YSL  Photo 3

Alexandre Farto AKA Vhils Scratching the surface 2018 © Camille Moirenc  Photo 4

The cast of the Riviera series.

Courtesy of Primo Prouctions © D.R.  Photo 5

The Bouvier Affair, courtesy of Alexandra Bregman © D.R.

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he myth of the Riviera was first immortalised by F. Scott Fitzgerald in “Tender is the Night”. with the worldwide appeal of the eponymous television series “Riviera,” has the baton finally been passed? For the first time, the hit series will air in France on 22 July, with worldwide distribution it has been bringing global perceptions of fictitious decadence in the region up to date, if you are lucky enough to catch it, look out for local landmarks like the lovely Villa Eilen Roc which features heavily in the show.

Just remember that however plausible the storyline, it is all fiction.

If you would like to read about the true comings and goings and art scandals in the region, pick up a copy of “The Bouvier Affair” by Alexandra Bregman. It is fascinating, granting powerful insight into the ongoing intrigue surrounding ‘Salvator Mundi,’ the world’s most expensive painting - which according to art world rumours is aboard its owner Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman’s yacht the Serene, currently in the red sea (if spotted in the local waters your local art correspondent would love to know). Bregman's book is certain to spark conversation and I will be taking mine with me wherever I go and leaving it on the table in the hope of gaining “local” insight.

High season is here and our playground becomes the playground of the world as planes, trains and particularly yachts bring holidaymakers into the region.

The art world, ever mindful of having a presence when the people arrive, is out in force.

This summer, there are more shows than ever, making the Riviera an art lover’s paradise.

Exhibitions Starting out in Provence, the Arles Festival of Photography is celebrating their 50th anniversary and is well worth a visit. until 22 september.

There is plenty to see in Aix-en-Provence: The Guggenheim show at Hôtel de Caumont pre-

sents “Masterpieces from Manet to Picasso: The Thannhauser Collection” shows pieces from the Solomon Guggenheim Collection in New York. This show has had rave reviews and should not to be missed. until 29 september.  www.caumont-centredart.com Plan your visit to Aix in combination with the Festival International d'Art Lyrique d'Aix-enProvence, their annual Opera festival, which includes performances of Mozarts Requiem and Tosca at the Théâtre de l'Archevêché, Aixen-Provence. until 22 July  www.festival-aix.com Nearby at Château La Coste you can not only visit their permanent sculpture trail but also the various dedicated exhibition spaces.

Shows include Don McCullen, Jean-Michel Basquiat and perhaps most fascinating of all, for those who have yet to experience Virtual Reality and art, Michel van der Aa has produced “Eight,” the story of a woman's life told in reverse via music theatre and visual art.

1 - 31 July, booking required.  www.villalacoste.com Although quite a distance away, for true art lovers an exhibit from the collection of Yvon Lambert is well worth the trip to Avignon to see “Basquiat Remix”. Yvon Lambert was the gallerist that launched the career of Cy Twombly and Basquiat in France and his priceless collection is as impressive as his exquisite eye.

1 July - 29 september.  www.collectionlambert.fr If you are in Marseille, don’t be alarmed if you see the glowing insignia of the famous superhero Bat Man high above the sky. Although it would be wonderful to think he could be floating around to save us all from bad guys, it is, in fact, Los Angeles-based artist Alex Israel's “Bat Signal” which is beaming across the city from MAMO’s open-air space atop Corbusier's City Radieuse. until 31 august.  www.mamo.fr Marseille is a wonderful place if you are passionate about contemporary art. Friche La Belle de Mai has five exhibitions opening including the first solo Paul Maheke exhibition.  www.lafriche.org The commercial art galleries centre around Rue du Cavalier Rose and this year's Art-ORama, the affordable art fair, which is supported by so many of the region’s art institutions.

30 august - 1 september.  www.art-o-rama.fr The summer’s full moons fall on 16 July, 15 August and 14 of September and if you do nothing but walk to the sea's edge and look at the full moon reflected on the Mediterranean

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you will see one of the most beautiful sights of the summer. Take it a step further at the Fondation Carmignac at Porquerolles. Organised with Soundwalk, their sensory experience called “Nuit de pleine lune” is an immersion into the forested gardens especially for full moon nights, guided by the voices of Patti Smith and Charlotte Gainsbourg. The isolated natural beauty of the island cloaked in darkness may well be a bit spooky! Booking ahead.

13 – 19 July, 12 – 18 august and 11 – 17 september. from 10 pm - 12 am.  www.fondationcarmignac.com The Maeght Foundation examines the work of Joan Miró, curated by the former director of the Miró Foundation in Barcelona, Rosa Maria Malet. This exhibition promises to be fascinating, exploring the relationship between the Maeght and the artist in various media. Until 17 November. www.fondation-maeght.com The Venet collection in Le Moy is showing “Claude Viallat: Unleashing colour”, and refers to Viallat’s 1970 show in Bordeaux - where he worked with army surplus tents, taking them through a fascinating process to create brightly coloured textiles. Book online in advance and enjoy the wonderful sculpture garden. until 13 september.  www.venetfoundation.org In Nice, they continue to celebrate film with L’Odysée du Cinéma. Various screenings of art films and notable installations by Clement Cogitore at the National Chagall Museum and an exhibition of filmmaker Alain Fleischer at the Charles Nègre Museum of Photography.  www.cinema2019.nice.fr For a true Fench intellectual experience with a little exciting outrage that will challenge you're understanding of gender, make your way up to Villa Arson for Brice Dellsperger’s film “Fucking Perfect: Body Double 36” as part of the Brice Dellsperger: L'âge du Double.

Dellsperger teaches at the école National Superior Arts Decoratif in Paris and his filmmaking uses camp and drag to destabilise the conventions of cinema and representation. Do turn up with an open mind and expect to be challenged, but do not bring your granny - unless she is liberal and curious. until 13 october.  www.villa-arson.org Finally, if the hot sun and the traffic gets to you and you just want to get lost for a few hours in air-conditioned darkness of a museum, escape inside the beautiful mind of Yves Saint Laurent. “L’Aisie Rêvée D’ Yves Saint Laurent” has arrived at the Musée des Departments Asiatique Nice. Take time to understand how Yves Saint Laurent influenced his design with his dreams of the Far East - and how he ultimately created Opium, the perfume that made him very rich. until 6 october.  www.maa.departement06.fr JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

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Super Natural Pablo Reinoso exhibits at the Polygone Riviera his summer the Polygone Riviera is hosting the fifth edition of their summer art programme, an open-air art installation with renowned Argentine sculptor, Pablo Reinoso. The exhibit, “Supernatural” takes over the four corners of the shopping centre until 14 October, recalling the flowing nature upon which the Polygone sits. with arabesques, volutes and steel bases, Pablo Reinoso's works transform regular objects like benches into a new dimension. His sculptures, as if animated by the spirit of breath, stretch out with long wisps of metal evolving into something more than just an object. Blurring the boundaries between art and design, these unique works invite us to sit, reflect and contemplate the world. The artist draws on the codes of "anonymous design" of street furniture to transcend it into a moving, incarnate sculpture, endowed with gracefulness.

Entitled "Supernature", the exhibition is developed by the idea of an exponential nature that is being reborn and deployed in urban areas.

The title gives a hint: Attention to the natural environment and its ecosystem – something built into the design of the Polygone Riviera, preserving and designing a new landscaped environment around the Malvan River. The works take place across the shopping centre and unfold in a set of forms reminiscent of

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Banc d’amarrage at the Polygone Riviera by Pablo Reinoso, 2015 - Acier peint - © Florian Kleinefenn

plant growth. By taking over these spaces, Reinoso wants to bridge the natural and urban environment, organic and artificial, letting his work grow without limit, as if the plant world was regaining its rights against everything human-made.

The exhibition takes its source from one of Polygone Riviera's permanent collection: the mooring bench, whose slats stretch out in space in an unusual way. Creating a sense of tranquillity, the pieces seem to prolong this movement of materials and take possession of the space, innervating the architectural structures of the shopping centre and invite us to reconsider the public bench as a space for

meetings and exchanges of words. At the end of the alleys, fountains and squares of the centre, Pablo Reinoso's works offer themselves as ideal stations for poetic reflection around where the artwork fits into the collective space.

Guillaume Creuze, Director of the Polygone Riviera, is excited about the art programme they offer. He said: "we are pleased to propose a new artistic highlight at Polygone Riviera with an exceptional collection of works, in a cultural region that is an essential part of the city. This event illustrates our unique approach: enriching the shopping experience with shared discoveries and emotions.” 

III Academy of Music in Monaco where she won a gold medal for harp. But Scarlett has had anything but a typical harpist career.

Holder of a master's degree in musicology and passionate about all kinds of music, she participates in numerous solo concerts and in various groups throughout the world: Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Uruguay, Tunisia...

In 2002, she hosted Tina Turner's 40-year career celebration in her villa in La Turbie. In 2006, she accompanied Kanye west on stage during her performance at the Nice Jazz Festival.

From performance to performance, the young woman imagines a new way to transmit her passion for the harp. with the desire to highlight the complexity of her technique and "dust off" this instrument that is often considered only for soft, delicate sound, she founded Pop Harp in 2014 and revisited the greatest pop and rock hits from U2 to Nirvana to The Doors in order to introduce the harp "differently".

Find the Riviera’s harp prodigy on her Youtube channel, in concert locally or even at your next event, the talented Scarlett and her sublime instrument will seduce music lovers with her little touch of magic for which only she has the secret. 

Scarlett Khoury The Côte d’Azur’s rocking harpist! t the age of seven, Scarlett Khoury fell in love with the harp and was classically trained. Her fingers are so delicate with the unusual instrument that she has won several awards at the Conservatoire National de Région de Nice and entered the Prince Rainier

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Riding the wave Thomas Lemaire’s photography continues to swell

“Roue” to exhibit at the Louvre in Paris © Thomas Lemaire

he Niçois photographer we featured in our March/April issue continues to have great success showing his beautiful photographs of the Côte d’Azur.

This past May, he was invited by the Mairie de Fréjus to exhibit at Villa Aurellienne, the first artist, as young as he is, to do so in three years.

At the vernissage on 10 May, Fréjus's Director

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Thomas Lemaire with one of his wave series. © Thomas Lemaire

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of Culture, williams Aureille, was present to say a few words on the fresh and innovative work that this young photographer is bringing to the community and helping to spread the enigmatic beauty of the region.

Speaking with Riviera Insider about the show, Thomas told us: “I felt very honoured to exhibit there. Not many artists have had the chance to show at Villa Aurelienne.” The exhibit was spread over two floors of the villa, divided into two series: the ground floor was his architectural series; the first floor featured “Les Vagues Niçoises,” his most popular series of spectacular waves shot at different times, with different colours.

Thomas has been named an ambassador of the Côte d’Azur for his work, winning several awards for his depictions of Nice architecture and landscape.

Thomas is very excited for his next project, an exhibition at the Louvre in Paris. A very rare opportunity for a young artist, Thomas’ work will be part of a larger exhibit called “Art Shopping Paris” sponsored by the Côte d’Azur Tourism Board. Over 300 artists will take part, from different countries around the world. This show will feature a new style of photography for Thomas, looking at stark, graphic structures - both of architecture and objects. we asked him for a little ‘sneak-peek’ of his new graphic series, which he kindly obliged with “Roue”, a graphic detail of a ferris wheel. The Paris show will take place from 18 - 21 October.

Follow Thomas @thomaslemairephotography. 

70 years of the Menton music festival On the program: great soloists, chamber music and opera arias or seven years now, the Menton Festival, founded by André Böröcz, has been under the artistic direction of the internationally renowned PaulEmmanuel Thomas. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious of its kind in Europe and runs from 25 July to 13 August in its anniversary year. His programme is divided into three series: "Les Grands interprètes" with twelve concerts, each at 9:30 p.m. in the uniquely beautiful square of the Basilique Saint-Michel Archange; "les Concerts au Palais" in the Salon de Grande-Bretagne of the Palais de l'Europe, nine concerts each at 6 p.m. and three "Off"-concerts at the Esplanade des Sablettes each at 9:30 p.m.

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Music of the future is in the air when new musicians such as Yuja wang, Jordi Savall, young performers (Beatrice Rana, Alexandra Conunova), ensembles and soloists perform for Menton. But Thomas also does not renounce faithful guests of the festival like Renaud Capuçon, Fazil Say or David Kadouch. He relies on a mixture of concerts with orchestra, chamber music, opera arias and great soloists, which makes the programme more than varied.

Music enjoyment is guaranteed, and as an encore there is the unique atmosphere of lukewarm summer nights in the beautiful little town of Menton. You can find the complete programme online.  www.festival-musique-menton.fr

© De Refat / Shutterstock.com

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ART & CULTURE

riviera

ADVERT

When it’s just you, which violin do you prefer? when it’s the beginning of the day, I always start with my acoustic violin and some Bach. It helps me to centre and dive into my technique. Don’t think that with electric music, the loop pedal and dancing that I can forget about my classical training!

So each day, I start with a suite of Johann Sebastian Bach to warm up, empty my head and get back into the right posture balance with the violin. It’s like sports when you stretch your body to get ready. So after about 45 minutes or so I take a 15 min break and then pick up my electric violin to be in a good space for creating something fun.

Not only do you play, but you also sing. That can’t be as easy as you make it look.

They are two separate brain functions that you have to do simultaneously, so it was hard to pass from voice to violin at first. But it’s good for the brain! So I have to remember the words -in English- and remember the notes of the violin, play it and make it look easy and like I’m just improvising - but I’m not!

Also, I work with sound architect Jean-Claude Ducasse.

I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without him - we are a team. It’s very difficult to mix vocals with electric violin.

If it’s not done just right it can sound really bad. He knows what to put where and when to put it.

Marie Electra Violinist Bringing a unique sound to the Riviera

By NICOLE RUSKELL

The very first electric violinist in the Côte d’azur, Marie electra has been performing for 15 years. She speaks with riviera insider about her fascinating career.

What inspired you to play the electric violin?

My education started in classical language and classical music. I started playing the violin at seven years old. At 26, I discovered electric violin by chance and I was really amazed by the musical possibilities that it offered. I decided to invest and try to use it as best I could.

See Marie electra live at the Grand Hotel St Jean Cap-Ferrat.

She plays every Sunday from 7 pm - 11 pm until 29 September.

JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

How different is it from classical violin?

Even if you have a base in classical music, you still have to adapt a lot of things like your technique and how you hear music. I have two violins, one Yamaha 4-string electric and a classic wood 5-string. You have to really open your mind to find the same notes and create the same sound. There are so many possibilities.

In terms of playing, it’s just a difference in the amount of pressure with the bow. Because of the electrification, if you press too hard or make a mistake it can cause a cracking sound. So you really have to find a balance in the way you move your bow.

In terms of repertoire, I am able to play cool songs that I couldn’t play with my classical violin!

What are some of your favourite collaborations?

I created a song and video on YouTube called ‘Electric Sundance.’ It’s a collaboration with DJ Faylasuf. It was something that we created together and worked on adapting the melody with the violin. I like it because it starts from a really calm melody and then moves to a real rhythm.

I also had the chance to collaborate with Givenchy and MB14, a famous beat-boxer. we had a really nice session mixing classical music and beat-box. It was so fun and interesting.

You have toured the world. Now you love to play intimate gatherings like weddings and luxury corporate events. Why is that?

In the beginning, we were going here and there and I can remember waking up in a hotel in Japan and not knowing where we were. It was hard, but it was good money and it was fun.

I love to create but I’m also really realistic. I will always play where I can give pleasure to people. Seeing pleasure in people’s eyes gives me pleasure and I enjoy taking a melody and playing it with my violin. I love what I do, actually. I’m having fun with people, sharing my music.

Any advice for someone considering this instrument?

Music is a language and it needs to be spoken with communication. I love to take people into my music world and give them good entertainment. Knowledge is something to share, you can’t take it with you when you die. I used to teach, so I love to share my knowledge and if people have questions about how it is to make the change from classical to electric, I am very happy to discuss it.

Follow Marie on Instagram and Facebook @MarieElectraViolinist www.violoniste-electrique.fr

riviera

nuiTs du sud Vence comes alive with international music

By NICOLE RUSKELL

or 22 years, the Nuits du Sud music festival has been bringing a fresh and eclectic mix of music performers to the small town of Vence. A favourite festival of the locals and guests from afar, what may be lesser known is how the festival began.

It all started in the home of Tea Saavedra. He and wife love music and they would arrange for concerts in their garden during the summer for friends and neighbours. Being from Chile, Tea began inviting some of his favourite musicians from Latin America but as the years went on, the performers became more varied, representing an international mix of independent talent.

The concerts became so popular that when the mayor contacted Mr Saavedra, he expected a request to stop the concerts due to complaints - instead, the mayor invited

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him to move the concerts to the main square for the whole town to partake! And so the Nuits du Sud Festival was born, quickly becoming a summer tradition for Vence, a community music festival that the entire town shares in.

To this day, the Nuits du Sud remains true to its original spirit and Mr Saavedra is still the artistic director, searching out a fascinating mix of international talent, welcoming all types of music with no set genre. His goal with the festival is

to introduce people to music that they may never have heard of. But it’s not an easy task. He tells RI that there is a delicate balance that needs to be found between name acts and unknown talent. “If we only book artists that people are unfamiliar with, they won’t buy tickets. But if we only book big names, we would lose the essence of the festival,� he says. So they work hard to create a varied set, always with a fun eclectic vibe and book two artists per evening, playing the lesser-known international artist first followed by the well-known artist.

This year, for example, an icon of Brazilian music, Gilberto Gil is playing after Aziza Brahim, a singer and poet with a powerful voice (27 July). A Saharan refugee, Aziza

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grew up in Cuba and she mixes her poetry with Cuban and North African influences. Sister Sledge, the disco funk favourite known for “we are familyâ€? will be performing on 26 July after Sanseverino, a French chanson quartet. Describing the festival as his “petit bĂŠbĂŠ,â€? Tea and the organisers work very hard to preserve the community vibe of the festival. This includes keeping the prices low and attainable for everyone, never going above â‚Ź30.

The entire town gets involved, with many bars and cafes offering special menus and drink specials. People from all over the world come to Vence, strolling the streets in a convivial spirit and sharing a passion for music. Don’t miss this special festival! ď ¸ www.nuitsdusud.com

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LENTS 2019

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ART & CULTURE

When: 5 - 26 JULY. Where: Mouans-Sartoux.

a summer of music festivals

Nuits Estivales

JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

29th edition of the festival with different artists, always Friday evenings. 5 July, 9 pm: Philippe Villa Trio (Modern Jazz); 12 July, 8.30 pm: Daniel Goyone and Thierry Bonneaux (Voyage en Jazz); 19 July, 8.30 pm: Cirque - 2 Compagnies, 2 Univers. Part 1: Sabordage, Part 2: En Circulo; July 26, 21h: A Filetta, 40 Ans! Polyphony Corse. In the castle park. www.nuitsestivales.fr

When: 6 July - 18 August.

Where: Monaco.

Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival Since its foundation in 1974, the Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival has welcomed the greatest stars. The 45th edition includes Sting, The Australian Pink Floyd Show, John Legend, Vanessa Paradis, The Jacksons, Enrique Iglesias and Cirque du Soleil. In the Salle des Etoiles or the Opéra Garnier. www.montecarlosbm.com

When: 12 – 21 July.

Where: Antibes.

Jazz à Juan

The 59th edition of "Jazz à Juan" includes a multitude of performances by artists such as George Benson, Ekram, Electro Deluxe. Pinède Gould in Juan-les-Pins. From 19 o'clock. www.jazzajuan.com

Where: Antibes..

Jammin' Summer Session (Jazz off )

As every year, jazz is also celebrated on the streets and squares of the city. Every evening at 6 p.m. on the stage of the Petite Pinède (Rue Jacques Léonetti), in the old town and in the music pavilion of the Place Nationale. Free admission. www.antibesjuanlespins.com

When: 15 July - 10 August.

Where: Nice.

Nice Classic live

Nice Classic Live, successor to the Festival du Cloître since 2018, builds on a long tradition of classical music in Nice and aims to become one of the most important classical music events in the cultural summer. In the Cimiez Monastery, the Matisse Museum and the Lascaris Palace, among others. www.niceclassiclive.com

When: 16 - 20 July.

Where: Nice.

Jazz festival

This year, the Nice Jazz Festival once again welcomes several big names from the international scene, including the Black Eyed Peas, who are celebrating their big comeback, the incomparable Nile Rodgers with Chic and the 90s icon Neneh Cherry, as well as French artists from Angèle and The Blaze to Bigflo and Oli and Hocus Pocus. On the jazz side, festival-goers will see artists such as Ibrahim Maalouf, the great violinist Jean-Luc Ponty, Fred Hersch and Christian McBride, singer Sarah McKenzie, The Jazz Messengers Legacy and many others. Théâtre de Verdure and Place Masséna. Tickets: 39 euros. www.nicejazzfestival.fr

When: July 18th, 19th, 22nd & 23rd.

Where: Cannes.

"Les nuits musicales du Suquet"

The 44th edition of this unique evening classical concert series in the heart of the old town overlooks the bay of Cannes and the Croisette.

The Trio Dimitri Naïditch, Richard Galliano and the orchestras of Cannes and Toulon will play. 9 pm. www.cannes.com

When: 19 July - 2 August.

Where: Vence.

Nuits du Sud

This year, for the 21st time, the central square of Vence is transformed into a large open-air concert hall. On the evenings of the festival several groups follow each other on stage, newcomers as well as nationally and internationally known artists. www.nuitsdusud.com

When: July 19th & August 2nd.

Where: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

Crossover festival

The festival takes place five times a year. The last two dates are in July and August. with DJ Food, DJ woody, Peter Isaac, Lil Louis, Systm B. July 19: 4 p.m. - 1 a.m.; August 2: 6 p.m. - 1 a.m. www.festival-crossover.com

When: 20 July – 31 July.

Where: Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

"Festival de Saint-Paulde-Vence"

The 9th edition of the music festival awaits the musicians for six concerts on stage at the Place de la Courtine. One concert each will take place in the Eglise collégiale and in the garden of the Fondation Maeght. www.festivalsaintpauldevence.com

riviera

When: 25 – 27 July.

Where: Brignoles.

"Jazz à Brignoles" Thursday, 25 July, 12 noon: Angélique Nicolas Quartet, 9.30 pm: Daniel Huck Quartet; Friday, 26 July, 12 noon: Homage to Erroll Garner, 9.30 pm: Fabien Mary Quartet; Saturday, 27 July, 11.30 am: Nomad Project, 9.30 pm: Tribute to Benny Goodman and Lionel Hampton. Place Carami, free admission. www.jazzabrignoles.net When: 25 – 27 July.

Where: Beaulieu-sur-Mer.

"Les Nuits Guitares. with artists like The Jacksons, Kassav, Ilbeyi, Aaron Lordson and many more. In addition to musical entertainment, there are food trucks and bars. Tickets: 38 Euro. www.lesnuitsguitares.com When: 25 July - 13 August.

Where: Menton.

"Festival de Musique de Menton" One of the oldest and most prestigious of its kind in Europe and celebrates its 70th birthday this year. Young performers (Beatrice Rana, Alexandra Conunova), ensembles

and soloists perform for Menton. But alsofaithful guests like Renaud Capuçon, Fazil Say or David Kadouch. A mixture of concerts with orchestra, chamber music, opera arias and great soloists. www.festival-musique-menton.fr When: 2 - 6 August.

Where: Cannes.

Les Jeudis Live

Thursdays in July and August, at 9.30 pm, various artists perform at the Palais de Kongress in Saint-Raphaël. On 11 July Louis Bertignac, 18 July Brigitte, 25 July Grégory Porter, 1 August Jenifer, 8 August Noëlle Perna Mado la Nicoise and on 22 August Pony Pony Run Run. Price according to programme. www.saint-raphael.com When: 2 - 6 August.

Where: Cannes.

"Jazz à Domergue"

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When: 9 – 11 August.

Where: Cannes.

"Les Plages électroniques" Countless artists will be there, including DJ Snake, Dorian Craft, Maceo Plex, Eagles & Butterflies and Konstantin Sibold. The whole thing takes place on the beach and on the terrace behind the Palais des Festivals. www.plages-electroniques.com When: 16 - 20 August.

Where: Ramatuelle.

"Jazz à Ramatuelle" For the 34th time jazz sounds in the alleys of the small village. This time the Swiss beatboxer and vocal acrobat Andreas Schärer (18.8.), among others, will be there again.

He already impressed with his show last year. The next day the celebrated German jazz pianist Michael wollny, who also triumphed in Ramatuelle two years ago, will be a guest. www.jazzaramatuelle.com

The festival offers four exceptional evenings in the sublime setting of the gardens of Villa Domergue. August 2: Erik Truffaz Quartet, August 3: Marion Rampal, August 5: Anne Paceo, August 6: Roberto Negro. Starts at 9 pm. www.cannes.com

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france 6 JULY GOLFE-JUAN "le PorT camille raYon fêTe ses 30 ans" Harbour festival with children's animations, performances by street artists and fireworks.

6 - 11 pm, free admission.

10 JULY CAVALAIRE-SUR-MER "les rendez-vous de l'éTé" The dancers of the Dance Studio Group perform various musicals.

Esplanade Ste Estelle www.cotedazurfrance.fr

11 JULY, 8 AUGUST, 4 & 26 SEPTEMBER SAINTE-MAXIME "sainTe-maxime à la Belle éPoque" Guided city tour through the Sainte-Maxime of the 19th century. www.sainte-maxime.com

12 JULY - 13 AUGUST MANDELIEU-LA-NAPOULE "marché nocTurne" Every Friday evening food trucks and stalls with gifts, handicrafts, sweets, etc..

7 pm - midnight.

17 JULY CANNES "l'orchesTre sYmPhonique de l'oPéra de Toulon" Parvis de L'église Notre-Dame d'Espérance. 9 pm. www.palaisdesfestival.com

EVENTS

Musee de la Céramique until 10 pm at reduced prices.

6 pm to midnight. www.vallauris-golfe-juan.fr

4 AUGUST LEVENS "6ème cross TriaThlon de levens" Participants must cycle 12 kilometres, walk 5 kilometres and swim 200 metres. The children's triathlon starts at 10 am and the adults' triathlon at 2.30 pm. At the same time there will be the 2nd Aquathlon, where you have to walk 3 x 1,5 kilometres and swim 2 x 200 metres. www.levens.fr

9 & 10 AUGUST CANNES choir concerT 1000 choir singers, accompanied

by Jenifer and Michael Gregorio.

Palais des Victoires in La Bocca. www.choeur-en-fete.com

10 AUGUST ANTIBES "The glorY gosPel singers of neW York" Performance of the rousing gospel choir. Eglise Notre Dame de la Pinède. 21 o'clock. www.antibesjuanlespins.com

23 AUGUST

CANNES "BalleT folklorique d'ingouchie" Ballet performance on the theme of folklore.

Palais des Festival - Grand Auditorium. 8.30 pm. www.palaisdesfestival.com

19 JULY

7 - 8 SEPTEMBER

NICE Baroque concerT maThieu salama The concert is dedicated to the great composers of baroque music. Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate.

8.30 pm. www.cathedrale-nice.fr

ROQUEBILLIERE "rallYe de la vésuBie" For the seventh time, the participants will travel around 140 kilometres through the AlpesMaritimes.

Place du Vieux Village. www.rallygo.com/rallye-dela-vesubie

20 JULY VALLAURIS "fêTe Picasso" Vallauris celebrates its most famous inhabitant, Pablo Picasso.

Live music, fireworks and opening of the Musee Magnellie and the

JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

NICE "chamPionnaT du monde IRONMAN" The IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon world Championship attracts nearly 6000 athletes from 100 qualifying competitions, including Germany,

China, Spain, South Africa, Sweden and America. www.eu.ironman.com

10 - 15 SEPTEMBER

Théatre Alexandre III. 8 pm. www.palaisdesfestivals.com

9 - 13 OCTOBER

CANNES "YachTing fesTival" For all professionals and lovers of French and international yachting.

Vieux Port and Port Canto. www.cannesyachtingfestival. com

FRéJUS "roc d'azur" The 36th edition of the mountain bike event with view offers a distance of 298 kilometers and 6000 positive altitude meters.

Register at www.timeto.com www.rocazur.com

13 - 22 SEPTEMBER

EXHIBITIONS

BEAULIEU-SUR-MER "Beaulieu classic fesTival" On the program are many artists and groups of classical music. www.beaulieuclassicfestival.com

13 JULY - 13 OCTOBER

13 - 29 SEPTEMBER ANTIBES "fesTival d'arT sacré d'anTiBes" Music concerts in various churches. www.antibesjuanlespins.com

21 & 22 SEPTEMBER ALL OF FRANCE "les Journées euroPéennes du PaTrimoine" Guided city tours, concerts, exhibitions, conferences and animations around the historical legacy take place throughout France. www.journeesdupatrimoine.c ulture.gouv.fr

22 - 29 SEPTEMBER CANNES "régaTes roYales" 41st edition of the traditional regattas. www.regatesroyales.com

26 SEPTEMBER & 6 OCTOBER SAINT-TROPEZ "Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez" Classic eight regatta. www.lesvoilesdesainttropez.fr

27 SEPTEMBER CANNES "momenTs musicaux allegro amaBile" Concert of the saxophone quartet "Quatuor Habanera".

SAINT-TROPEZ "delacroix - signac" works by the great NeoImpressionists Eugène Delacroix and Paul Signac at the Musée de l'Annonciade. www.sainttropeztourisme.com

UNTIL 1 SEPTEMBER NICE "andré osTier - PorTraiTs d'arTisTes" The Matisse Museum presents a selection of more than a hundred photographs by André Ostier, including portraits of Pablo Picasso, Andy warhol, and Salvador Dalí, as well as various documents that illustrate his relationship with the artists. Matisse Museum www.musee-matissenice.org

UNTIL 23 SEPTEMBER BIOT "fernand léger eT ses ami.e.s" Following the success of the two previous editions, 2017 and 2018, the third and final part of the exhibition follows.

Musée National Fernand Léger. 10 to 6 pm. www.musees-nationauxalpesmaritimes.fr

UNTIL 29 SEPTEMBER NICE "l´image qui revienT" An exhibition by Alain Fleischer as part of the exhibition series "L'Odyssée du cinéma".

Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre. Other cinema venues in Nice: Musée Masséna, MAMAC, Musée Matisse and Le 109. www.museephotographie.nic e.fr

riviera

UNTIL 6 OCTOBER ANTIBES "les omBres du sTYx" The special exhibition presents around thirty original plates by the author Isabelle Dethan, a selection of the most important works by the author Isabelle Dethan.

Musée d´Archéologie. Except Mondays daily, from 10 am - 12 pm and from 2 pm - 6 pm. www.antibesjuanlespins.com

Musée Bonnard. www.museebonnard.fr

UNTIL 10 NOVEMBER NICE "hiPPolYTe henTgen - le Bikini invisiBle" Lina Hentgen and Gaëlle Hippolyte show their art on canvas, in films, sculptures and installations.

Gallery Contemporaine du Mamac.

Place Yves Klein. www.mamac-nice.org

NICE

UNTIL 17 NOVEMBER

"l'asie revée d'Yves sainT laurenT" Various models, sketches, jewellery and photos by the legendary creator Yves Saint Laurent. www.arts-asiatiques.com

SAINT-PAUL-DE-VENCE "Joan miró. au-delà de la PeinTure.

A tribute to Joan Miró: summer exhibition with more than 200 of his works, including a collection of unpublished gouaches.

July, August daily 10 am - 1 pm, September & June 10 am - 6 pm. www.fondation-maeght.com

UNTIL 15 OCTOBER LES BAUX-DE-PROVENCE "szczesnY - les Beaux-deProvence" A voyage of discovery in the footsteps of the German artist Stefan Szczesny, with paintings, sculptures and photographs throughout the village.

Day & night in Les Baux-deProvence, free admission.

UNTIL 3 NOVEMBER CANNES "niki de sainT Phalle. l'omBre eT la lumière.

The works of the artist Niki de Saint-Phalle in the Centre d'art la Malmaison and in the Villa Domergue. www.cannes.com

LE CANNET "de l'imPressionnisme à Bonnard eT Picasso" One of the most renowned private collections: The Nahmad Collection shows exceptional works from the late 19th to the first half of the 20th century.

"u sciaraTu" Summer carnival with decorated floats, a parade, music groups and more.

Place du Palais and alleys of Monaco-Ville. 6 pm. www.visitmonaco.com

26 - 28 JULY "la mégère aPPrivoisée" Ballet created by Jean-Christophe Maillot for the Bolshoi dancers.

Grimaldi Forum, 8 pm. www.balletsdemontecarlo.com

28 JULY concerT in The courT of honour of the Prince's Palace The Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra plays Ludwig Van Beethoven.

Palais Princier. 9.30 pm. www.opmc.mc

UNTIL 6 DECEMBER

2 AUGUST

NICE "10 Years of archaeologY" Countless archaeological discoveries in the surroundings and off the coast of Nice. MAMAC. www.mamac-nice.org

sTing Sting offers a concert with his best hits.

Sporting d'Eté, Salle des Etoiles.

10.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

6 AUGUST

UNTIL 27 OCTOBER CANNES "l'homme au masque de fer. un secreT d'éTaT." Exhibition about the truth behind the legend of the mysterious prisoner "Eustache Dauger" - the man with the iron mask.

Musée de la Mer. www.cannes.com

19 JULY

monaco 6 & 7 JULY "in Your elemenT" First wellness festival in Monaco with activities such as yoga, beach volleyball, football and workshops on healthy eating, meditation, beauty and more. www.visitmonaco.com

11 JULY "The ausTralian Pink floYd shoW" Sporting d'Eté, Salle des Etoiles.

8.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

13 JULY "The Beach BoYs" The Beach Boys are on stage during a Fight Aids event.

Sporting d'Eté, Salle des Etoiles.

10.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

The Jacksons Enjoy a dinner with the musical accompaniment of the Jackson brothers.

Sporting d'Eté, Salle des Etoiles.

10.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

9 AUGUST "loBoda" Concert of the Ukrainian singer Switlana Loboda.

Sporting d'Eté, Salle des étoiles.

10.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

10 AUGUST enrique iglesias Concert of the Latin singer with his best hits.

Sporting d'Eté, Salle des Etoiles.

10.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

15 - 19 AUGUST cirque du soleil For the second time, Cirque du Soleil offers an exclusive

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performance.

Sporting d'Eté, 10.30 pm. www.montecarlosbm.com

22 SEPTEMBER monTe carlo Philharmonic orchesTra Opening concert of the season 2019/2020. Sea Pictures d'Elgar.

Grimaldi Forum, 6 pm. www.grimaldiforum.com

30 SEPTEMBER - 2 OCTOBER luxe Pack monaco 32nd edition of the world's leading event for creative and innovative packaging. www.grimaldiforum.com

9 TO 12 OCTOBER "les assises de la sécuriTé" The reference event for ISS professionals. Lecture series on various topics of IT security. www.grimaldiforum.com

13 OCTOBER "monTe carlo Philharmonic orchesTra - fanTasia" The best excerpts from the masterpieces of Fantasia 1940 and 2000 by Disney Studios.

3 pm. www.grimaldiforum.com

EXHIBITIONS

UNTIL 26 JULY. "Terre & méTamorPhoses" Monumental paintings by Philippe Pastor.

Monaco Modern’Art www.monacomodernart.mc

12 JULY - 28 AUGUST "JoYaux de souveraines" with around 250 extraordinary jewellery creations, works of art and historical objects, the exhibition shows jewels of past rulers. Free of charge for under 18s.

Grimaldi Forum. www.grimaldiforum.com

25 - 28 SEPTEMBER "monaco YachT shoW" The world's most renowned yacht show at Port Hercules. www.monacoyachtshow.com JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

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riviera

UNTIL 15 OCTOBER "hisToire d'une renconTre" Exhibition about the first meeting of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly in the Principality.

Les Grands Appartements du Palais. www.visitmonaco.com

iTalY EVENTS

UNTIL 29TH JULY. GENOA "genoa inTernaTional music YouTh fesTival" A festival that attracts international musical talent to the Ligurian capital. Different styles of music from all over the world are offered. www.genovatoday.it

11/21//25/25-30 JULY & 3/6/6/7/28/30 augusT Perinaldo Sky observation in the famous

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EVENTS

observatory. After dark. www.perinaldoturismo.org

13 JULY VERDEGGIA wITH TRIORA sagra di verdeggia Gastronomic festival with local specialities, music and dance.

From 9 pm.

FINAL LIGURE viaggio nel medioevo Medieval festival in the streets and squares of Finalborgo, Castel San Giovanni www.turismo.comunefinaleligur e.it

20 JULY & 17 AUGUST LAIGUEGLIA anTiques markeT with exhibitors from Liguria, Piedmont and France 8am - 8pm, Piazza Marconi, Mazzini and Garibaldi

29 JULY - 3 AUGUST SAN BARTOLOMEO AL MARE music comPeTiTion

Premio rovere d'oro e giovani talenti Young talents make music for the coveted award www.roveredoro.org

3 & 4 AUGUST FINAL LIGURE anTique markeT In the alleys and squares of the old town of Finalborgo. All day. www.turismo.comunefinaleligur e.it

20 AUGUST SANREMO queen aT The oPera The biggest symphonic rock show of recent years Teatro Ariston, 9.30 p.m.

EXHIBITIONS

UNTIL 31 JULY

DIANO MARINA sagra del mare Gastronomic stands and dancing Villa Scarsella, from 7 p.m.

BORDIGHERA AND DOLCEACQUA claude moneT, riTorno in riviera Original works of the great master, which he created during his stay in Liguria.

Bordighera Villa Regina Margherita & Dolceacqua Castello Doria www.monetinriviera.it

18 - 20 AUGUST

UNTIL 22 SEPTEMBER

ANDORA sTreeT food For the third time, food trucks from all over Italy are offering hundreds of specialities and drinks. Musical entertainment is included.

GENOA inge moraTh: la viTa. la foTografia works by the Austrian photographer Inge Morath.

Palazzo Ducale, Loggia degli Abati, Tuesday to Friday 3 pm - 7 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11 am - 7 pm. www.palazzoducale.genova.it

9 - 11 AUGUST

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GOURMET

A woman at the helm

By NICOLE RUSKELL

The Negresco’s new Head Chef Virginie Basselot

Chef Virginie Basselot with the original carousel horse © Claes Bech-Poulsen

The new interior of the famous La Rotonde restaurant © Francis Amiand

ast year, Chef Virginie Basselot took over as Executive Chef of the famed Hotel Negresco in Nice and there have since been some significant changes.

Riviera Insider dined in the newly redone La Rotonde restaurant, the famous carousel inspired brasserie and spoke with the first woman to head up the kitchen.

Born in Normandy to a restaurateur, Virginie started cooking at a very young age. By 19, she was already working in Paris. Her background is typically impressive for a chef of her calibre, but she brought something extra wherever she went - Michelin stars. In 2003, Virginie worked as sous-chef for Eric Fréchon et Franck Leroy at Epicure in Paris, during which they received their third star. A year after she moved to the Saint James Hotel where she earned the restaurant’s first star.

In 2015, she was the second woman ever awarded the Meilleur Ouvrier de France award.

Now at the Negresco, Chef Basselot is in charge of all the food at the hotel. She is enjoying the challenge and the variety of running three locales: La Rotonde brasserie, the twostar restaurant Chantecler and The Bar. “I like the diversity of working in a hotel as opposed to a restaurant. There are so many things to do and it is always different - it’s never boring,” she tells RI. Keeping a strong relationship with her food

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producer is of paramount importance. while many chefs know their vendors at their local market, she takes it further, travelling out to the producers themselves at their farms and to the sea to taste and get to know the people supplying her food. There are very few chefs that have such close contact and rapport directly with the producers. She even occasionally invites them to her restaurant to taste the creations she makes with their products.

Chef Basselot believes this gives great importance to the quality of their products and a completely different understanding of what their food can become.

Not only does this close relationship build mutual respect but it also ensures the Negresco gets the best pick of the crop. But for Chef Basselot there are other important reasons to work directly with farmers - it helps them survive and even flourish. She explains: “The woman who supplies our organic eggs has a reliable order from us every day, all year long. Farmers today don’t always know what they’ll be doing tomorrow, so it’s really good to be able to give steady orders to small locals farms. To be able to work for a big hotel like us is great for the small producer. It helps them to keep going.”

Chef Basselot’s concern for the farmer is part of her dedication to protecting the patrimony.

This was mentioned several times during the interview and it is clear that she feels strongly

about it. Just as Madame Augier, the late owner of the Negresco, dedicated her life to protecting the patrimony of French art, the chef is extending that ‘guardianship’ to the kitchen.

For the last several years, both the Promenade des Anglais and “Cuisine Nissarde” (the traditional cuisine of Nice) have been in the process of gaining heritage status from UNESCO. when the Normandy native took over as Executive Chef, one of her first orders of business was to make La Rotonde certified with the label “Cuisine Nissarde”. “For me, the Negresco is like the emblem of Nice,” she says.

“It’s what you see when you arrive, it’s in every image of the city, on the TV, etc. So it’s imperative to have this distinction for the restaurant. Being a guardian of the patrimony is a very important role and we work hard on this.”

Coming from the north-west of France, Chef Basselot had a few things to learn in order to perfect the local cuisine, but outgoing Chef Jean-Denis Rieubland, a Niçois native, gave her intense lessons, including recipes from his own grandmother.

Today, La Rotonde’s menu features several dishes with the “Cuisine Nissarde” designation, including the ‘Esprit de Partage’ plates, a great way to try and share classics like panissa, pissaladière, petits farçis and more. The assortment plate gives a selection of everything. The chef’s favourite Nissarde dish? Les petits farçis.

The rest of the menu features an array of brasserie classics - steak and fries, oysters, steak tartare, rack of lamb with ratatouille and some contemporary creations like roasted prawn, quinoa and avocado salad. 

LA ROTONDE 37, Promenade des anglais, Nice + 33 (0)4 93 16 64 11 rotonde@lenegresco.com

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Rampoldi Monte-Carlo

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By NICOLE RUSKELL

Respecting tradition and innovating classics

ust off the famed Place du Casino, Rampoldi is a Monaco institution, serving up an elegant selection of Italian and French cuisine since 1946. Stepping into the restaurant is like being transported to Old Hollywood, with red marble walls and a gorgeous gold chandelier. One might expect to see Grace Kelly seated with her glamorous co-stars in one of the corner booths. But despite the elegant décor of a bygone era, there is nothing old-fashioned about Rampoldi.

For a restaurant whose clientele has dined for generations, including the Grimaldis, the classic favourites can’t be missed: countryside escargots with truffle puree, foie gras, vitello tonnelato and their house specialty Rampoldi Bouillabaisse. Chef Antonio Salvatore keeps the authentic traditional favourites but breathes fresh new life into them.

At only 31 years old, this young chef has had quite a career. Starting out in Rome and Milan, he moved on to London, Madrid and even Moscow. He was working for his ‘culinary hero’ Juan Pablo Felipe at the Michelin started El Chaflán before he was hand-picked to run Semifreddo Mulinazzo in Moscow. He’s described as an ambitious perfectionist but when Riviera Insider met with him we found a humble Chef who seamlessly blends modern innovation with his traditional Southern Italian upbringing.

The meal began with an amuse bouche of a mini calzone margherita, a warm pillow of lightly fried dough, filled with the freshest buffalo mozzarella, freshly made tomato sauce and fragrant basil.

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The first course was the King crab tartar, a light and refreshing mix of sweet crab meat, with freshly mashed avocado speckled with thick chunks of salmon sashimi and topped with caviar and micro-greens. Served with a side of fresh gazpacho, light pink in colour from the heirloom tomatoes and delicately poured by the server. This dish is a fresh, contemporary addition to the menu and the perfect ode to summer.

After the crab came an enormous piece of walnut and pistachio encrusted foie gras: tender, delicately flavoured and perfectly cooked.

Served alongside fresh fruit, a nib of chèvre and toasted brioche and walnut bread. The sweet peach, tart berries and candied cedro peel gave a delightfully sweet and tart combination. The next course was of my choosing – seafood, meat, or pasta. Given my hankering for some authentic southern Italian pasta, I opted for the latter, hoping to fulfil the void left since my last visit to Sicily. The chef’s surprise: spaghetti with shrimp and courgette, an old favourite. This is a dish reminiscent of ratatouille in the sense that it is a very old, simple recipe known as a ‘casalinga’ or housewife recipe – certainly not haute cuisine. But like the film Ratatouille, when one bite transported the critic to his childhood, his pasta transported me. And this is where Rampoldi stands out from the pack.

Chef Salvatore is a skilled chef but he isn’t afraid to serve simple comfort food. when he joined me at the table, he admitted that such a dish is often frowned up for its simplicity.

“It’s not a chef’s plate - it’s tradition,” he said.

“Tradition is history and food tells a story.”

Growing up in a small town in southern Italy, food was a major part of life. “The smell of food filled every alleyway. The women preparing the tomatoes, the smell of wine in September...” This is his history, his humble roots that season all of his creations.

“People come to eat together, to get emotions and experience pleasure,” he explained. “I want to provide a clean, warm environment to get to know them and give them pleasure.”

As if to drive home his point, a customer dressed head-to-toe in Chanel took a seat at the next table and refused the menu, asking instead for the chef’s shrimp and courgette pasta. Clearly it’s a dish that feeds the soul.

Rampoldi is more than a delicious restaurant in an elegant setting. Downstairs they have a private music lounge and a very special Cigar Lounge where you can sit and enjoy a cigar with a glass of scotch or even eat your entire meal within the humidor-lined vault. The kit-

Crab tartar with avocado and salmon

chen is open all day, so if you’re working the MYS and need a pick-me-up in the afternoon, stop in for a dessert and coffee – try the molten chocolate cake, the chef’s favourite - it’s pure decadence served with a scoop of delicate pear and star anise sorbet.

Take home rampoldi The Chef has created his own line of fine Italian products from his trusted suppliers, including his own 100% organic olive oil.

These can be purchased to bring home or give as gifts. Don’t miss his olive oil infused with Menton lemons, a fabulous addition to seafood. 

RAMPOLDI 3 avenue des Spélugues 98000 Monaco +377 93 30 70 65 www.rampoldi.mc

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YOLO Beach in Juan-les-Pins

The perfect spot for an idyllic break between relaxation and indulgence.

By MARINA CARVALHO

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ith its shaded terrace, wooden deckchairs, cosy sofas, nicely laid tables and little touches here and there, the YOLO Beach (for You Only Live Once) is a real invitation to wellbeing where the word pleasure takes on its full meaning! who hasn't dreamt of one day trading their suits and ties for a life in flip-flops and shorts? They did it! They are Remy, Xavier and Eric, three childhood friends who have always dreamed of becoming beach-goers and who one day, in 2010, dared to end their careers as financial analysts, insurers and entrepreneurs and finally live their new lives.

Two years later, the three friends took over La Paillote Blanche in Golfe-Juan, but the law on coastal protection forced them to start from scratch after only a few seasons.

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Having to imagine a new project, they opened YOLO Beach in July 2018, a completely dismountable beach restaurant designed as a haven of peace, rejuvenation and a touch of the exotic in the heart of Juan-les-Pins. whether from a table or a lounge chair, there are breathtaking view of the Iles de Lérins and the Massif de l'Estérel.

Each of the partners have naturally found their place in the establishment: "I take care of the restaurant, Xavier is at the bar and Eric at the beach," explains Rémy. It is to a talented chef that the trio has entrusted the reins of its kitchen to design a gourmet and tasty menu based on fresh, local and seasonal products with 3 Mediterranean accents "influenced by a little Asian touch as if to recall my mother's Laotian origins," he continues.

You can't go to YOLO without succumbing to the delicious traditional Bo bun, this refreshing and complete salad made with vermicelli, satay beef, raw vegetables and nems or without being tempted by the best-seller of the house, the sea trilogy with its Gravlax salmon, its sea bream tartar and its tuna tataki.

On the sweet side, another talented chef is in charge.

YOLO has joined forces with the 2009 world Pastry Champion, Jérôme de Oliveira, and now offers his customers the opportunity to taste "L'exalte", this marvel of crispy pecan nuts, soft chocolate biscuits, vanilla crème brulée and dark chocolate mousse, but also his lime pie, strawberry, raspberry shortbread and other gourmet delights created by the creative and passionate Chef.

Open every day (until midnight) then from September 15th, only at lunchtime. YOLO offers an incomparable quality/price ratio in a warm family atmosphere...even in high season, count 17 to 25 euros for a dish and 15 to 25 euros for a deckchair on the beach.

Shh…it’s a true Insider’s paradise, don’t let the secret out! 

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SPECIAL GOURMET

LEWIS LONGMAN

Originally from sleepy Suffolk, Lewis Longman moved to Cannes several years ago in the search of something meaningful to fill the predictable void of post-graduate life. Between the ubiquitous palm trees of the sunsoaked Côte d’azur and the terraces of its numerous restaurants, he thinks he has found that something...

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Marco Polo Summer dining at its best ith an array of beautiful villas and terracotta houses, perched perilously on cliffs overlooking the bay of Cannes and the sparkling Mediterranean, Théoule-sur-Mer is one of the French Riviera’s most picturesque spots. Five miles away from busy Cannes, this quiet neighbouring town is a beautiful contrast sat on the opposite side of the bay, with a secluded beach and many restaurants in the small centre, nestled at the bottom of the imposing and breath-taking Esterel mountains. It is one of the many places dotted along this beautiful coastline, which seem synonymous with summer and above all, al fresco eating beneath the deep blue sky.

Since 1949, Marco Polo has enjoyed a prime location, tucked snuggly into a golden bend of sand and crystal clear sea. with sun loungers and towels lining the beach, one would be easily forgiven for assuming this favourite haunt as being simply a beach bar. However, the recently refurbished restaurant and the food it produces is evidence that Marco Polo is much more than white polo shirts and piña coladas - it is a bastion of real Mediterranean cuisine.

The location of the restaurant is second to none, with tables either lining the beach, or on the sand itself. Surrounded by verdant cliffs and jagged red rocks, the backdrop

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really is a perfect place to indulge in a summer lunch.

The first thing you notice about the menu at Marco Polo, is how overwhelmingly Mediterranean and Provençal the dishes are. Too often, restaurants in the South of France have menus which seem obsessed with food which quite frankly feels out of place on a menu in this area; I am a big fan of sushi, but it doesn’t belong on a beach. Here however, things are different. The menu is a tribute to all things Mediterranean: lobster bisque ravioli, octopus carpaccio, cuttlefish, tartare de boeuf, seafood linguini… all the dishes perfectly incorporate the fantastic ingredients which the South of France has to offer. Fresh rosemary plays a key part in many of the offerings, adding colour, texture and that quintessential, unmistakable, Mediterranean smell, with sprigs of the herb complementing many of the dishes on the menu.

The fried cuttlefish with tomatoes and rosemary was a simple starter, but full of flavour and texture. The octopus carpaccio was another delicate dish, its presentation matching the taste, a fine example of Mediterranean cuisine.

The main course of linguini with clams and Iberian chorizo was an ode to rich and extravagant flavours; the bowl generously filled with a hot entanglement of pasta, smoky chorizo, and salty clams - this was real food! The hearty beef burger with foie gras and mushrooms was another fine example of exuberance - it is the French Riviera after all. Needless to say, the prices while not overly expensive, are certainly not cheap, though the food and the surrounding scenery makes the experience ultimately good value for your money.

Unlike many places we find in the South of France, the service at Marco Polo was brilliant - attentive but not overbearing - no one likes a waiter who seems as though he might pull up a chair and sit next to you at any moment. The service was quick and friendly, and the glasses of rosé never seemed to be empty. with waves gently breaking onto the beach, the sun bouncing patterns across the turquoise bay and that familiar sound of bottles popping open, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place to spend a lunch in the warm summer’s sun! 

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Mirabeau en Provence has found a home in the typical Provençal village of Cotignac. © D.R. The new Mirabeau flagship “Pure”and its predecessor, the current “Classic” Rosé © D.R.

A Provencal Summer in a Glass A British-German family brings the taste of rosé to England By CHRISTINE HELFRITZ rosé from Provence, famous for its delicate, pale pink complexion, is currently experiencing an international boom. Partly originating from some of the oldest cultivation areas in France, it is also internationally regarded as a model of quality. With sales figures that have increased 14 fold over the last ten years and for the first time its export sales have even exceeded domestic sales.

One of these successful exporters of Provencal lifestyle is "Mirabeau en Provence", founded in 2010 by Stephen and Jeany Cronk in the quaint village of Cotignac in the Var. The likeable British-German family with three children had left their established life in London behind to start all over again as Rosé winemakers (Riviera Insider reported in May 2016). within nine years, Mirabeau has grown into a major player in the British market and is often called "Britains favourite rosé ". Mirabeau is also a market leader in Holland and has a strong presence in Australia. The business has excellent growth perspectives in the USA and Asia.

The Cronks describe themselves as cré ateurs de vin, whose business activities focus on the expert blending, bottling and marketing of their high-class and awardwinning AOP rosé s. Low in sugar and yet very aromatic, these rosé s are a delight all year

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The British-German Cronk family lives their Southern France dream. © D.R.

round and can be food matched in many ways. The range extends from Pure, their flagship, to the versatile Classic and to Etoile, a gastronomic wine for special occasions. La Folie is Mirabeau's light and delicious sparkling Rosé ; and then there are fruity Rosé ice-pops (Frosé s) and the chic Prêt-à-Porter canettes (250 ml cans) for the beach, pool or golf course, which complement the portfolio in a creative way.

For tastings, a trip to the pretty village of Cotignac, located in the heart of Provence Verte and dramatically nestled underneath a rugged rock, is well worth it. Jeany’s tasteful lifestyle boutique, situated in a 16th Century building entirely renovated by her, boasts a carefully selected range of artisan objects and is a nod to her passion for interior design.

The Sycamore-lined village square, with its splashing fountains, pretty little shops, restaurants and cafés also offers a lot of variety for a casual meal and a stroll.

Head to the engaging Mirabeau website to find numerous recipes that pair well with Rosé, insider tips on the region and a list of current sales outlets worldwide.

The next project of the passionate young company is already in preparation - then Mirabeau could become the producer of an exceptional cuvée on its own land. A big step for Stephen and Jeany Cronk!  *according to CIVP, Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins de Provence

MIRABEAU EN PROVENCE 5 Cours Gambetta 83570 Cotignac Tel. +33 (0)4 94 37 40 02 July/august: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday: 10am-7pm; Wednesday and Friday: 10 am to 9pm; Sunday: 10 to 3pm. www.mirabeauwine.com

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mirazur named #1 The best restaurant in the world

By NICOLE RUSKELL

hef Mauro Colagreco is having just about the best year a chef could ever hope for. After attaining his third Michelin star inJanuary, The world’s 50 Best Restaurants list named Mirazur number one in the world.

In our March/April issue, we featured Chef Colagreco, saying that he was “on fire” this year, but at the time, Massimo Bottura’s Osteria Francescana still held the #1 spot. Mirazur wasn’t far behind with its #3 spot, but at a ceremony in Singapore on 25 June, the coveted list passed that title to Mirazur.

In his acceptance speech, Colagreco said: “It’s a year I shall remember forever.” Cleary elated at the news, he reflected: “what a great year. Three Michelin stars and number one all in the same year. I don’t have words to explain. I own the sky!”

The world’s 50 Best committee made some changes to the rules this year – most importantly they disallowed repeat #1s. Perhaps a blow to Chef Bottura, but after two consecutive years he should feel fine passing the baton.

The world’s 50 Best website describes Mirazur’s cuisine as ‘Progressive European plates inspired by the French Riviera and their Argentine creator’s roots.’

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neron glacier PâTissier Have ice cream, will travel fter a successful career as a pastry chef for the Ritz in Paris, and Pastry Plaisirs, Chef Louis Dubois opened his own patisserie in Vieux Nice last year. with his ultimate pastry expertise, he creates fabulous treats and thick, creamy gelato using only the top-quality ingredients, like vanilla from Madagascar and Tahiti, pistachios from Iran and so much more.

He even makes his own sugar cones, the perfect crunchy vessel for his rich ice cream.

Lemon tarts, chocolate Napoleons, Mille-feuilles with Tahitian vanilla, william pear poignées with vanilla custard, cinnamon and rum canelés, bags of fresh cookies… walking into Neron Patissier Glacier makes you feel like a kid in a candy store.

Since their opening, they have been

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BesT hoTel Bar 2019 Bar Américain takes the top prize in Europe The choice of most note-worthy dish on the menu? Salt-crusted red beetroot from the garden with caviar cream. But most articles will mention Colagreco’s signature dish of oysters with tapioca and shallot cream.

Chef Colagreco is an Argentine with Italian heritage, but France has brought him most of his accolades. with this title, he gives something back, with Mirazur being the very first French restaurant to make the top spot since the list began almost 20 years ago.

Chapeau! 

getting rave reviews from customers and they have been featured in numerous articles. But perhaps people’s favourite is their stylish black and purple ice cream cart.

A year before opening his shop, it was the ice cream cart that kickedoff his business. Seen at top parties and corporate events, Chef Dubois still takes his gelato show on the road. It’s a sight you will often see at our own Riviera Press events. whether you pop into their shop for a treat or hire the ice cream cart for your event, you will be getting the best-quality treats around.  Néron Glacier Pâtissier 15 Place St François 06300 Nice

Now in its second year, the European Hotel Awards has named the Bar Américain at the Hôtel de Paris the 2019 Best Bar of the Year. The award is organised by ‘Références Hôteliers-Restaurateurs International’ magazine and recognises exceptional ambience, service and drinks.

Bar Américain has been serving guests in Monte-Carlo since 1929 and recently underwent an update during the Hôtel de Paris’ renovation, including the addition of a new terrace overlooking the Place du Casino. The interior design was done by David Collins Studio, who made sure to preserve the cozy, elegant decor. Silk-lined walls, marble mosaic floors and dark leather booths make you feel like your stepping back into the Jazz Age when the French Riviera was the playground of music and literary greats. To this day, the Bar Américain has live music every night.

Open every day from 10:30 am to 2 am. 

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L IFESTYLE

Vivi Andersen Photo: Paul Oataway

Part of having a good life is learning from the lessons that it teaches us. riviera photographer, Paul Oatway, brings us “Life Lessons” a new series not about hard and fast rules but about the important little teachings that local expats have learnt along the road of life.

Life Lessons Award-winning graphic designer Vivi Andersen has been the 'creative' person behind many of today's leading brands. Originally from Norway, she moved to Cannes in 2011 and heads her own company OuiCannes Design. In 2017, she was voted the Artiste d'Honneur at the Grand Prix International d'Artiste organised by the city of Cannes for her photo project “Mirror Mirror”. Here, she shares her important life lessons.

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Be curious when meeting new people, ask controversial questions instead of talking about the weather, or about their job. By asking what’s in their fridge or what the title of the movie of their life would be, you open up to more interesting and memorable conversations.

Travel as much as you can I wish I had travelled more when I was younger. To see new places, learn about other cultures, eat and drink different food, see the sun rise in a place unknown ... Nothing inspires more than travel. say thank you when someone gives you a compliment, helps you, gives you advise or invites you to a dinner party, say thank you. It might be just two small words, but it can change another person’s day. Gratitude is such valuable thing.

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one good one makes up for ten bad ones No one needs 674 ”friends” on Facebook that they never see, or a lot of acquaintances that doesn’t bring any significant value to your life. If you use more time on the ones you care about and those who care about you, your life will be richer. A good friend is the best gift you can get, so give it the love it deserves. drink champagne on a Tuesday You shouldn’t save your best dress, your diamond earrings or an expensive wine for a special occasion. It might never come or it might be too late. Life should be celebrated on the normal days, not only on special occasions. You can drink champagne for breakfast on a Tuesday if you want to. get lost If you plan everything down to the last millimetre nothing can surprise you. when travelling, I go outside the beaten track and get lost because then I find things that surprise me.

The best moments are all ways the ones you never plan.

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Be creative Lots of people tell me that they are not creative, but I think everyone can be creative in different ways. I love when people come up with strange ideas that might seem stupid, because that might be the opening of another person’s genius idea. A lot of my work as a graphic designer and artist has come out of being silly or even tipsy. keep moving No dog has ever pissed on a moving car. Don’t stay on the same path. Step out of your box. It can be as simple as taking a new route to work, changing your hair style or trying a new dish at a restaurant. If you stand still, you will not grow. it’s only money If you have a dream and the only thing stopping you is money, then you have no real excuse. If you want to take a year off to travel or buy a painting you love but are afraid of the cost, borrow the money. The joy, experience and the memories will last longer than your down payment. Invest in your dream.

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L IFESTYLE

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Red Carpet ready Beauty Spa L.Raphael launches innovative new skincare line By NICOLE RUSKELL

Professor Paolo Giacomoni & Ronit Raphael © Maxime Sauvant

During the Cannes Film Festival, Beauty Spa L.raPHaeL hosted a new product launch on the rooftop terrace of the Martinez Hotel. They welcomed riviera insider to a presentation by their head researcher, followed by a glamorous fashion show. he Beauty Spa L.RAPHAEL offers some of the best skin treatments available. what sets them apart is their expertly created product lines. while other spas shop around for beauty products that are made by other brands, L.RAPHAEL works directly with some of the world’s top cosmetic scientists.

Ronit Raphael, the Founder and President of L.RAPHAEL Spas welcomed guests to the launch of her new Green Caviar Oxygen line, the latest development from renowned researcher, Professor Paolo Giacomoni. with over 20 years of experience in the field of skin care, Dr Giacomoni has headed research at Estée Lauder, L’Oréal and Lancôme. He is a founding member of the European Society of Photobiology, the European Society for the Study of Age Biology and is known for his research on DNA damage, metabolic alterations induced by UV rays and the positive effects of antioxidants.

working directly with L.RAPHAEL, he has developed the first skin care collection that combines the benefits of green caviar and oxygen. ‘Green caviar’ is actually made from an algae found in Okinawa, Japan. Instead of animal-based caviar eggs raised from endangered fish, the Green Caviar Oxygen line contains plant-based microalgae. Scientific studies show that Green Caviar strengthens the skin cell membrane by stimulating the production of collagen and provides powerful antioxidant activity that neutralizes free radicals that can damage the skin. Dr Giacomoni and his team also discovered how to integrate a special protein that will allow skin cells to consume more oxygen and therefore have more energy.

“This wakes up the skin and rebuilds the connective chains, helping the epidermis anchor to the dermis and repair your skin’s elasticity,” said Dr Giacomoni during his presentation.

According L.RAPHAEL, the results are immediate. ‘This treatment gives you clearer, more even skin and reduces sun and age spots. It also accelerates the rate of cell regeneration and improves the metabolism and toxin removal systems in skin cells. Over time, the skin is smoother, lifted and firmer.’

allows better penetration of the active ingredients. That’s where the L.RAPHAEL CureC mask comes in - with a scientifically proven formulation that nourishes the skin, increases collagen production, reduces pores and UV damage and gives a highlighting effect.

Together, these powerful ingredients provide immediate results to be ready for the red carpet, or any important event.

Beauty Spa L.RAPHAEL, Hôtel Martinez 73 La Croisette 06400 Cannes Tel : +33 (0)4 92 98 74 90 www.l-raphael.com

Designer Souhir El Gabsi with model Felicia Gebhardt. © D.R.

RED CARPET GOWNS

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L.Raphael’s Diamond Powder Mask © D.R.

film festival launch In another first, L.RAPHAEL joined forces with luxury jeweller Chopard to create the perfect skin-refining mask, a limited edition just for the Cannes Film Festival. "what is really special for me this year is to share the creation of our limited edition Diamond Powder Mask with Mrs Caroline Scheufele, Artistic Director and Co-President of Chopard, who provided the diamond powder," explains Ronit Raphael. "This is the first time that a luxury jewellery brand has collaborated with a luxury beauty brand.”

Diamond is highly effective for removing dead cells from the upper layer of the skin which

The Diamond Powder Mask by L.raPHaeL for Chopard was presented with a fashion show of stunning gowns by Tunisian fashion house esthere Maryline. Dress after stunning, flowing dress showed the exquisite craftsmanship and feminine silhouette by designer, Souhir el Gabsi. She uses bold colours, from forest green to scarlet red, finishing with an ethereal gold sequin gown. The flowing trains are lined with crystals, sequins or intricate embroidery and some dresses even had whimsical messages woven in arabic. Maison esthere Maryline was founded in 2012 in the capital of Tunisia and has been providing one of a kind dresses for top celebrities and glamorous brides. www.maisonestheremaryline.com

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The Sunshine vitamin Are you getting enough? espite living in a sunny climate with an estimated 2,724 hours of sunshine a year, many Azureens are falling short in possibly the most essential nutrient of all.

Vitamin D is fat-soluble vitamin with so many roles, it resembles a hormone. As mentioned in the November/December 2018 edition, Vitamin D is important for supporting immunity but it also regulates the activity of more than 2,700 genes and is required for the function of each body system. This is why deficiency is considered a key factor in many chronic diseases including: cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious immune disorders, autoimmune disease, cognitive and mood disorders, muscle weakness and repetitive falls/osteoporosis.

Dedicated and lifelong experts around the world estimate that reducing Vitamin D deficiency would reduce the pain and costs affecting millions with chronic diseases.

matory Bowel Disease (IBD) or fat malabsorption disorders such as gallbladder removal/dysfunction. Certain medications can deplete vitamin D, including steroids and fat blocking medications for weight loss (e.g. Orlistat). Those aged 65 or more

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what is considered deficient?

The measure commonly used to evaluate vitamin D levels* is serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). Globally there is a general consensus that deficiency is defined as anything below 25 nmol/L and insufficiency in the range 25 – 49 nmol/l. However, there is no current agreement upon optimal levels of vitamin D. Many scientists and functional medicine practitioners believe that 25nmol/L is below levels required for good health and that a minimum should be 75nmol/L. This is because the reference range is set to avoid the diseases osteomalacia and rickets (of which there has been a re-emergence) and that the prevention of many chronic diseases requires far higher serum levels. what is not known is how long levels need to be low before any complications may arise. This is why it makes sense to take vitamin D levels seriously.

Is sunbathing enough?

Most are aware that the main production of vitamin D synthesis comes from absorption from the sun, hence it´s nickname the sunshine vitamin. Yet the population smothers themselves with cream (often full of synthetic chemicals) as soon as the sun starts shining. whilst in southern France it is recommended to use sunscreen to protect skin from over-exposure to UVB rays in order to prevent burning and development of skin cancer, it obstructs the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D. A more practical suggestion is to get sun exposure without burning. From April to September, try to go “sans sun cream” for short periods of time (avoiding 11 am - 3 pm when the sun is particularly strong) to enable synthesis of JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

vitamin D. Time of exposure will depend upon melanin levels in the skin along with levels of smog/pollution which can prevent strength of UVB rays. Light skin may only require 10-15 minutes exposure whilst darker skin may need up to 120 minutes to meet daily requirements for vitamin D. whilst statistics show up to 25% of the UK´s population with deficiency in the sunshine vitamin, many in the south of France are also falling short of adequate vitamin D. The sunrays are not strong enough or at the right latitude in Cannes (43.55°North) or Nice (43.69°North) to support vitamin D synthesis from October to March. Persons living north of Madrid (40°North) need to be conscious of getting enough Vitamin D throughout the year. Much of the European population rely on dietary vitamin D and body stores to maintain a healthy vitamin D status throughout the year. Another reason for deficiencies is age since vitamin D synthesis in the skin becomes less efficient as we get older.

How to supplement Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the form naturally produced in the body when the skin is exposed to UVB rays. Dietary sources are oily fish. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) may be found in mushrooms, but requires conversion from D2 to D3.

Daily intake of both animal and plant sources are best to meet the current dietary reference value (DRV) of 400 IU (or 10 µg) per day. This would be the equivalent of 1 portion of salmon or 20 cups of shitake mushrooms (not a feasible vegan/vegetarian option).

Groups potentially vulnerable to deficiency: Vegans or vegetarians Pregnant and breastfeeding women Breast-fed infants and all children (more indoor screen time) Individuals with dark skin pigmentation or covered for cultural reasons Anyone with digestive issues, such as Inflam-

Magnesium: the helping mineral Magnesium is required for more than 300 physiological processes that happen all the time and Vitamin D works alongside this important mineral. Unfortunately, many people are also Magnesium deficient. Magnesium has the ability to increase vitamin D levels in those with deficiency and lowers vitamin D if levels become too high (extremely rare). Therefore, a deficiency in magnesium shuts down the ability to produce vitamin D. Correcting a deficiency or insufficiency can be challenging if relying upon sun exposure and/or diet alone. If you are concerned about your vitamin D levels consult your GP or practitioner who will be able to advise you on further testing.

TIP: Eat fatty fish, mushrooms, plenty of green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, and get some careful sun exposure. 

CHRISTINE KJELDBJERG

has a BSc in nutritional therapy, an MSc in personalised nutrition and is a Pilates & Xtend Barre instructor.

Originally from Berkshire in the UK, Christine has been living in the riviera for 12 years. She has a busy fitness and health coaching business in Grasse and runs various educational workshops. www.ck-health.com

*Vitamin D equivalences: 1 µg = 2.5 nmol, 1 µg = 40 IU, 1 ng/ml = 2.5 nmol/l To convert µg to nmol/L, multiply µg by 2.5.

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Cannes Imperial Apartments

Good quality at a good price

W

hen looking for a holiday rental, it is often not easy to find a property on par with the quality of your

own home.

The key to creating a luxury home away from home is in the details and Cannes Imperial Apartments offers six luxury properties, located in the most sought-after areas of Cannes without the luxury prices. Each apartment is

unique, decorated in modern, Provencal or Baroque style, all sharing the common thread of high-quality interiors, chic furniture and excellent amenities. Top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, Italian rain showers, chrome fixtures, high-quality mattresses and even a selection of pillows from soft to firm ensure that guests have everything to ensure a good night’s sleep. These are details that keep guests coming back year after year, building a portfolio of repeat customers over the last ten years.

Two properties are located in the historic Palais Miramar. Built in 1928, this Art-Deco jewel

of the Croisette sits between the Carlton and Martinez hotels. Cannes Imperial tells Riviera Insider that they pride themselves on offering customers the same level of quality and service as their luxury hotel neighbours, but with the added convenience of a full kitchen and attractive weekly rates. whether you are looking for a getaway for yourself or a nice place for friends and family to stay during their visit, check out Cannes Imperial Exclusive Apartments for an unforgettable experience. ď ¸ To view their properties and book online, visit: www.cannes-imperial.com

Alex Frezat

C O I F F E U R

V I S A G I S T E

8, RU E D E S M I M O S A S CANNES 04 93 99 75 41

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Le Tigre Spa Monte Carlo Beach opens a spa as unique as the hotel By NICOLE RUSKELL

Le Tigre Spa at the Monte Carlo Beach © MCSBM

estled in a little enclave just past the border of Monaco, sits the Monte Carlo Beach resort and hoteL (MCB). A Relais & Chateaux property and part of the glamorous Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, the MCB is surrounded by trees and birds - a world away from the glitz and glamour of the Principality and its overwhelmingly grand hotels.

However, this little 40-room jewel is perhaps their most unique and intimate property, offe-

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ring 5-star luxury while still maintaining the feel of a private bungalow getaway.

This is what attracted élodie Garamond when she was scoping out a new location for her spa in the French Riviera. Le Tigre, her unique yoga spa has been a massive success in Paris, offering stressed visitors a truly relaxing, spiritual getaway. Focused on yogic philosophy, chakra balancing and healing both body and spirit, Le Tigre is a new concept in the luxury spa experience.

“I’m very careful of places for their energy,” élodie told Riviera Insider on the phone from Paris. “There is a very special energy at Monte Carlo Beach – very different from the centre of Monte Carlo.” élodie has travelled the world and lived in many countries, including India and Bali, to hone her spiritual practice. when she returned to Paris, she couldn’t find a suitable place to do yoga. In a sea of yoga studios and classes, she couldn’t find a true yogic, spiritual practice. So she decided to create a place of her own. Le Tigre encompasses strict yoga practice with rigorously selected instructors, Auyrvedic principles for spa treatments, including chakra balancing, detoxifying massage, oil treatments and more.

Her signature Le Tigre Oil is a special recipe she spent a year creating, with almond, sesame, rooibos and essential oils. It is soothing and nourishing, rich in vitamin C and E and unlike other oils post-massage, this you doesn’t feel greasy - it feels amazing. élodie’s final decision to open at MCB came after meeting with the hotel’s Managing Direc-

tor, Daniele Garcelon. élodie was struck by Daniele’s care and compassion after overhearing her speaking with her staff. “[Daniele] has such a good humanity towards her guests and her staff,” she pointed out. “They are so caring and want to give the very best. She’s such a beautiful person and so in love with her hotel.”

The two women instantly “clicked” and élodie jokingly describes their meeting as a “coup de foudre”, or love at first sight.

The only woman hotel director at SBM, Daniele Garcelon runs a tight ship with “obsessive attention to detail,” Daniele tells Riviera Insider during an interview on the MCB patio. “I am very picky,” she says, “and I like élodie very much. It’s difficult to find someone with the right spirit - she’s very open-minded and her concept is different. This is why she has been so popular in Paris.”

Daniele describes her hotel as “very different” because of their setting secluded amongst the trees and the sea. She considers both her staff and her repeat customers “a big family” and welcomes the unique and nourishing services of Le Tigre Spa. Opened since March 2019, Le Tigre Spa offers all traditional spa services plus yoga, meditation and Pilates in both private, group and child classes. The signature chakra balancing ‘Le Tigre’ massage is designed to fit your energy needs, changing based on whether you need to relax or energise.

For their spa treatments, they use Tata Harper, a line of 100% natural, eco-certified beauty products. 

Hästens beds Waking up to good sleep ood quality sleep is one of the most important facets of life.

Many of us live in a constant state of exhaustion and though we may wonder why we feel so tired, we often don’t think about the quality of our mattress.

Hästens knows this perhaps better than anyone else. They have been making some of the world’s best mattresses since 1852 and six generations later, it is still a family-owned business. Their slogan, “wake up world” may seem an unusual slogan for a company specialising in sleep, but Hästens contends that without good sleep, you’re not properly awake.

Riviera Insider speaks with Eric Sturma, owner of the Hästens store in Nice. He describes the company culture as being “driven by a passion for providing the best sleep.” when asked if these mattresses really make that big of a difference, he replied: “It changed my life. when I discovered Hästens, I found the perfect bed.”

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The classic look of a hand-made Hästens bed. © D.R.

He explains that the intricate layering of the natural materials allow your bones and your muscles to rest, relax and recharge during the night.

“I wake up without any back pain and with a fresh mind,” he adds.

So what makes these mattresses so special?

Every Hästens’ bed is made to order and handcrafted by expert artisans in Sweden. Every detail from the firmness to the fabric design are chosen by the customer. Each mattress is made entirely of natural materials from the Swedish pine frame to the Swedish iron springs to the cotton, flax and wool filling.

The secret to their award-winning beds, however, is horsehair. Originally a saddle maker, Hästens created mattresses from horsehair, which

provides exceptional breathability, temperature balance, resistance to moisture, and dries quickly. To this day, their mattresses are among the last in the world to continue this tradition.

“All layers work and breathe together to provide a healthy and ambient temperature good for sleeping,” Eric explains.

Hästens offers an exceptional range of beds, including the iconic Vividus and their top-of-theline, 2000T. Visit their store in Nice so you can test these amazing mattresses for yourself.

Hästens Nice 44 Rue Gioffredo, 06000 Nice +33 (0)4 93 79 87 94 www.hastens.com

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sWiss

Learn French in a Provence monastery

A sophisticated travel experience

n a former Cistercian monastery from the 19th century, Crea-Langues language holidays for adults are offered with personal care.

Surrounded by lavender fields and olive trees, the monastery features a beautiful courtyard, organic vegetable terraces and a swimming pool. All this nature provides a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere which is highly conducive to the learning process.

The focus of language instruction is on perfecting communication skills. The sessions take place for four to six hours a day, but with the support of the resident teachers, you are immersed in the French language from morning to evening. Class size remains small with groups of three to six participants who are supervised by highly qualified teachers and divided according to language level. In addition, if you so choose, you may still take private lessons. This concept has been proven for enhanced learning 35 years.

levate your travel experience with Swiss via Zurich or Geneva to more than 100 destinations in over 40 countries.

Enjoy the advantages of travelling in Swiss First or Swiss Business well before take-off.

Elegant Swiss Lounges are perfect for spending passing the time and hint at what awaits you on board: unparalleled comfort, combined with Swiss hospitality and award-winning culinary delights.

Embark on a culinary journey across Switzerland and enjoy exclusive dishes created by some of Switzerland’s top chefs. Every season, they pamper you with delicacies from a different canton in the framework of their culinary concept ‘Swiss Taste of Switzerland.’

To date, chefs from all cantons

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In addition to language class, there are many other learning possibilities, such as canoeing, visiting the l'Occitane company, hiking, participating in a perfume workshop and more. A gourmet kitchen contributes to the quality of the stay. There is also a gym with a sauna, bicycles are available and for music lovers, there is a piano and guitar at your disposal during breaks from your course.  www.crealangues.com

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have presented their creations on board; from A as in Aargau to Z as in Zurich.

Paired with sophisticated wines and refined cheese varieties from the chef’s own cantons, Swiss takes gourmet dining to a new level.  www.swiss.com

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

Bachelor in Business Administration IAE Nice’s one-year working degree programme he main strengths of IAE Nice’s Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) programme gives students the chance to develop their capacity for independent and critical thinking, to foster skills in shaping effective arguments, and to strengthen their ability to understand and solve global management problems.

The programme is open to anyone holding a three-year degree in any field (no business background is required) and courses are scheduled three days a week in order to allow students to study and work at the same time if they so choose. International candidates holding a student VISA are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their stay in France.

IAE’s one-year BBA curriculum is meant to help broaden a student’s knowledge base, and supplement their core competencies. when joining the BBA at IAE Nice, students gain experience in transverse managerial insight.

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BBA PROGRAMME

JOIN OUR INTERNATIONAL ONE-YEAR BBA PROGRAMME AT IAE NICE

JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

According to Sonia Lorenzani, PhD, director of the BBA programme, the emphasis of the curriculum is all about know-how and soft skills. She tells Riviera Insider: "At IAE Nice, we believe that you not only need to acquire core business and management Know-How but you also need to nurture your own interpersonal skills. In combining the two aspects together, you will then be able to stand out of the crowd and show your personal ability to act efficiently."

A balanced combination of lectures and internships During the first 6 months of teaching, from October to March, students are introduced to the latest trends in business practices and therefore provided with a solid grounding in business. Then from April to September, internships are conducted followed by the dissertation defense at the end of the placement.

Cohorts are composed of international students and lecturers have a strong international experience. This environment ensures you receive effective and highly interactive lectures, where

students and instructors from different horizons, backgrounds, ages and countries meet and share their knowledge and experience.

The BBA runs from October 2019 to September 2020, with a cost of €6,000 to participate. The closing date for applications is the end of September 2019 (excluding the first 3 weeks in August when IAE is closed). 

For more information or to apply: www.unice.fr/iae/en/programs/bba Contact: Sonia Lorenzani BBA Program Director Sonia.lorenzani@univ-cotedazur.fr.com

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Crowdfunding A financing tool at the disposal of entrepreneurs

By SYLVIE THOVERT

ost recently, the local press reported on a participatory financing operation carried out by the Grasse-based company ECCITY MOTOCYCLES to finance the launch of a 3-wheeled electric scooter in category 125 and strengthen its commercial structure. This small company with 12 employees managed to raise €455,000.

Participatory financing is rarely used in the Maritime Alps, particularly because of a lack of knowledge of its mechanism. The example of ECCITY is an opportunity to focus on crowdfunding, an ideal alternative financing method to finance the key stages of business life: creation, takeover, development and even transfer.

Crowfunding, or participatory financing, is generally used as a complement to traditional financing tools. It is also a way to build a supportive community around you.

Crowdfunding, consists of raising funds from a group of contributors, private or institutional, via a specialized Internet platform.

Crowdfunding can take 3 forms: Reward crowdfunding, ideal for testing the market and public acceptance of a product or service; Crowdlending, which generally finances expenses not taken into account by banks (research and development, extension or renovation of old buildings, recruitment, stocks, external growth, digitalisation); the participating loan is not accompanied by any personal guarantee from the manager or security for the loan.

Crowdequity, the acquisition of a stake in the company's capital, used to finance an innovative project or one that is not very popular with traditional investors (real estate development, establishment abroad) or to complete a round table.

Crowdlending has only been allowed in France since the beginning of 2015 following an amendment to the Macron law ending the banking monopoly on intercompany credit.

More than 70 SME lending platforms are listed in France. The most important is OCTOBER (former name: LENDIX), its offer is aimed at all SMEs, ranging from the very small business of 3 people to the ETI of 1800 people

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and even listed companies. The only key criteria are that companies must have a turnover of more than €250k, be profitable and have sufficient repayment capacity.

OCTOBER allows you to borrow from 30,000 to 5 million euros.

The European platform Look&Fin is also very present, with attractive interest rates thanks to a partnership with one of the world leaders in credit insurance. At Look&Fin, the eligibility criteria are 3 fiscal years filed, a minimum turnover of 600 thousand euros and an EBITDA in excess of 50 thousand euros.

The wiSEED platform that led the ECCITY operation operates in the health, environment, digital, industrial and service sectors, according to a three-pronged approach of three key words: sustainability, responsibility, performance. The company carrying out the project must be at least 8 years old to be able to raise funds.

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choose the right platform and examine the collection conditions:

Local, national, European platform?

Generalist or thematic? Target audience? Loan amount, duration (3 to 7 years), fixed interest rate (between 4 and 10%, on average 7-8%), commissions on the amount collected (from 3 to 10% decreasing) and administrative fees?

Finally, you will need to communicate: your communication skills will be crucial to the success of the collection campaign! To capture the attention of investors and make them want to contribute to the project, you need to have an entrepreneurial story to tell, explain why and how the amount will be used, provide a visual (computer graphics, video), communicate with the press and media, be very active on social networks and feed your community with news.

For this type of operation, it is necessary to be accompanied because improvisation is not appropriate: a crowdfunding campaign requires preparation, strategy, marketing, intense team mobilization. Crowdfunding money is not easy money!

But, in return, participatory financing is a great way to increase its visibility and notoriety! 

Before embarking on a participatory financing operation, you will need to ask yourself a series of questions:

what are your deep motivations? Is this the right timing for your company (degree of maturity of your project)? Do you want to publicize your project? Is crowdfunding adapted to your company's situation? what are your investor targets? what are your communication skills? what is your mastery of social networks?

Then, as with a loan application, you will need to establish a Strategic / Marketing / Financial Plan: The quality of the project presentation is essential for the understanding and analysis of the operation's issues. Actions that are not well prepared are looked at with severity by contributors and do not pass the test. Serious, professionalized actions win support and exceed objectives.

The investment community mobilized in record time: 1 million euros raised at Look&Fin in less than 48 hours for a wind turbine project! Through the banking circuit, it would have taken several weeks or even several months.

SYLVIE THOVERT Colibri Développement Tel. +33 (0)6 62 23 93 95 Colibri.partners@gmail.com www.colibrideveloppement.com

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BUSINESS between European families and their Middle East, U.S., Asian and Latin American counterparts. Representing over $4 trillion in investor wealth, the Ritossa Family Office meeting in Monte Carlo is renewing the legendary myth of the French Riviera as a hub for the super-rich.

Hosted by the Ritossa Family Office, a prestigious family business dating back 600 years to the era of the Venetian Empire and with deep roots into Europe and the Middle East, Anthony Ritossa operates on high standards.

Catered to investment-minded blue-bloods, “The summit is a good mix of families, of products and services.

This sharing of current activities and future trends is very important,” says SAR Le Prince Michel de Yougoslavie, who joined the summit.

Investing in peace For generations, Hadi Al Alawi, the Chairman and CEO of the Al Hayat Group in Bahrain and his family have been combining doing well with doing good.

Now Al Alawi has teamed up with the Vision Peace Foundation Germany, who announced a global peace project called world Tour for Peace by David wared. This project will see a ‘peace plane’ with more than 100 people visit 100 countries across all continents and organise 100 peace congresses to ignite 100 cities for peace.

Al Alawi also spoke about the best practice to pass on the family business to the next generation. Other topics of the conference included lucrative new markets. Investors heard exclusive insights in current mega trends, geopolitical risks, economic challenges as well as crypto capital markets.

Sally Khudairi, the spokesperson of the Apache Software community, which created open source technology worth billions of dollars, is now launching blockchain innovations through her latest venture, OptDyn. Khudairi worked alongside Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the world wide web, as a member of the world wide web Consortium executive team at MIT. OptDyn just developed the world's first crypto currency mining router and provides products and solutions in billion-dollar sectors that include Cloud Computing and peer economy marketplaces.

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Royal money The Rise & Rise of Family Offices

By IRENE HELL  Photo 1

Anthony Ritossa and Hadi Al Alawi at a Ritossa Family Office Meeting in Monte Carlo. Al Alawi. © Irene Hell  Photo 2

IT Power House Sally Khudairi who worked with Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, and Alex Karasulu CEO of OptDyn in Monte Carlo.

Khudairi and Karasulu just developed the world's first crypto currency mining router. © Irene Hell

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royalties and billionaires have once again met in Monte Carlo for the 9th Global Family Office Summit. riviera insider discovers how anthony ritossa, the summit’s founder is revitalizing the myth of the French riviera as a hub and a hideaway of the rich, royal and powerful.

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nthony Ritossa has raised the bar again,” observes Giuseppe Ambrosio, President of the Monaco Single and Multi-Family Office Association.

The 9th Global Family Office Investment Summit from 18-20 June, 2019 was held at the Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel. It may well have been one of the world’s largest and most exclusive gatherings of family wealth.

Under the High Patronage of SAS Prince Albert II, the theme of this year’s event was "The Rise & Rise of Family Offices". By invitation only and strictly private, more than 450 ‘family offices,’ conglomerate owners, Sheikhs, royal families, private investors, business moguls, sovereign wealth funds and industry professionals from around the globe attended.

Between like-minded peers in a safe-harbour environment, the summit aims to bridge interests and activities

Honouring Prince Albert II The Family Office Lifetime Achievement award in Strategic Philanthropy was awarded to Prince Albert II of Monaco. Bernard Fautrier, Vice President and CEO of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation addressed our planet's alarming environmental situation.

Major Family Office Meetings such as The Ritossa Summts which take place in Monaco, Dubai and Miami have become investment powerhouses, capable of competing with global banks and private-equity firms on big transactions. The leading business magazine, The Economist, describes them as “an essential part of every self-respecting billionaire’s stable.”  2

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Taking up residence in France?

By ROB KAY, SENIOR PARTNER, BLEVINS FRANKS

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t is not difficult to appreciate why so many people fall in love with the French Riviera and consider making it their home.

There are, however, some tax and financial essentials you need to be aware of and plan for in order to get the best out of living in France. while you should review all the various aspects of your wealth management when moving to a new country, in France it is particularly important to consider the tax and estate planning implications nice and early. The way you hold your assets can make a significant difference to how they are taxed and to inheritance issues.

Ideally, take advice before you buy your property and make the move, so you do not miss out tax and succession planning opportunities.

However it is never too late to review your position as there are often steps you can take to improve your tax situation.

Property ownership There are various ways of owning property in France. There is personal ownership in sole or joint names. You could have a community marriage contract or insert a tontine clause in the conveyance. You could also own the property in an SCI, a form of French property-holding company. while taking the strict French succession laws into account, the best option for you depends on a number of factors, such as your family situation (particularly where there are unmarried partners or stepchildren); what you want to happen to your property on death; where you will be resident etc.

Tax planning The French tax regime is completely different to the UK’s, not to mention very detailed and complex. Anyone moving to France needs to be prepared for this. There are various tax

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traps and many people pay more tax than necessary or get their tax planning wrong. It is usually fixable, but of course getting it right from the outset makes life much easier. what is tax-efficient in the UK is not usually tax-efficient in France, so you need to review your investment structures. The tax burden can be high in France, but you can usually take steps to reduce it, sometimes considerably, particularly on investment capital.

So take specialist cross-border tax, estate planning and wealth management advice, and as early as possible. It will prove invaluable and give you peace of mind that everything is in order as you get on with enjoying your life in France.

Visit www.blevinsfranks.com to download your complimentary copy of ‘The Blevins Franks Guide to Taxes in France’ and to keep up to date on the financial issues that may affect you.

Summarised tax information is based upon our understanding of current laws and practices which may change. Individuals should seek personalised advice.

For more information contact: Valbonne office : +33 (0)4 93 00 17 83 france@blevinsfranks.com Monaco office: +377 97 77 55 74 monaco@blevinsfranks.com

Think you will pay too much tax in France? You may be surprised.

The French tax regime provides opportunities for tax efficient investing, and how you hold your assets can make a significant difference to how much tax you pay.

Talk to the people who know

04 93 00 17 80 france@blevinsfranks.com

Blevins Franks specialises in reducing tax on invested capital, pensions, wealth and inheritance, and has saved our clients a substantial amount of tax over the years. Contact us to find out how we can help you.

INTER NATIONA L 016-fr

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Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Distribution Directive or the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II, the applicable regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks France SASU (BFF), is registered with ORIAS, registered number 07 027 475, and authorised as ‘Conseil en Investissements Financiers’ and ‘Courtiers d’Assurance’ Category B (register can be consulted on www.orias.fr). Member of ANACOFI-CIF. BFF’s registered office: 1 rue Pablo Neruda, 33140 Villenave d’Ornon – RCS BX 498 800 465 APE 6622Z. Garantie Financière et Assurance de Responsabilité Civile Professionnelle conformes aux articles L 541-3 du Code Monétaire et Financier and L512-6 and 512-7 du Code des Assurances (assureur MMA). Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

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Photo: Marian Brannelly © Cannes Lions.

stage Jeffrey Katzenberg, founder of Dreamworks, and Lorne Michaels, legendary producer of Saturday Night Live, for the media and entertainment personality of the year recognition.

Another major attraction was “The work”. An exhibition of shortlisted and award winning campaigns from the festival’s archive, placed in the basement of the Palais.

However, the festival is much bigger than the Palais. The entire Croisette was taken over by some of the biggest names in media, including Google, Youtube, Spotify, Twitter, and many others, spreading awesomeness around every corner, hosting after-parties and providing first-class entertainment by artists like John Legend, Nas (US rapper) and the legendary French electronic duo, Justice.

Long story short: Cannes Lions feels like Disneyland, not just for marketing and media professionals, but for all the creative and curious minds coming from any background, culture or country in the world. Stay tuned for next year’s edition from 22 - 26 June. 

Cannes Lions S

By RUI FERREIRA

tanding in the Lumière Theatre at Cannes Lions, Bono, lead singer of U2 once said: “There’s no room in the world I’d rather to be in.” It’s understandable

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SALLE JEAN MINEUR in a special ceremony, David Lisnard, Mayor of Cannes and Claire-anne reix, President of the Palais des Festivals, paid tribute to Jean Mineur, France’s original ‘ad man’ and founder of Cannes Lions by naming an auditorium on the third floor of the Palais in his honour.

I N A B LE L I O A T US This year’s edition N

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why.

From 17 - 21 June, the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity brought together the most creative and innovative minds in the world for five days of knowledge sharing, inspiration and networking, turning Cannes into a melting pot of insights and ideas.

In its 66th edition, the festival delighted more than 16,000 attendees with a stunning number of great events including presentations, talks, workshops, showcases, surprise appearances and a ton of cool brand activations and experiences.

The speaker panel was huge. Picture this: an all-star ‘world cup,’ featuring the most influential players across communication, media, entertainment, technology, innovation and healthcare industries, popping up all over during the five days: Ivy Ross, VP of Design for Google devices, on how Google is designing to reach feelings; Apple’s VP of Marketing Communication, Tor Myhren, on the art of simplicity; Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook and actress Kerry

washington representing women and female leadership with the “future is female” and “Badass women”; actor Jeff Goldblum on the future of entertainment and the award-winning director Alfonso Cúaron on the social phenomena around 2018’s “Roma”...to name just a few in hundreds.

Although everything looked interesting, it was humanly impossible to keep up with the frenetic rhythm of all the happenings around the city; making it very hard to choose when and where to be.

By sunset, the daily dose of golden statues: the most wanted recognition for creatives, advertising agencies, brands, media outlets, and personalities, split across several categories such as print, digital, film, strategy, creative marketer and brand of the year.

Among the given gold and Grand Prix awards, some brands and agencies stood out, receiving several statues. Nike, wining with the controversial campaign with Colin Kaepernick “Dream Crazy”; Burger King showing how creativity can help to take advantage of the competition with “whopper detour” and “Burn the ad”; and IKEA competing with a strong move on inclusive design introducing “ThisAbles”.

Beyond advertising, the jury called to the

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The epicentre of creativity

was all about sustainability. No printed maps or programs - everything was accessible in one app for smartphones.

No Plastic water bottles: every attendee was given a Closca Design glass bottle that could be refilled with fresh water every twenty feet.

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riviera

Harrison Brook Mortgages English-language mortgage advisers

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By ROB KAY, SENIOR PARTNER

urchasing a property can be a complicated process and when that purchase is in a foreign country and foreign language, it can become that much more difficult. There are many people involved in the process: the bank, the notary, estate agents and the insurance company, just to name a few. An independent mortgage adviser can help to liaise and organise on your behalf with all relevant intermediaries in order to make the purchase as simple as it can be.

Different banks have different criteria, and it is key that before moving forward with any transaction, you speak with a qualified independent mortgage broker who can fully understand your situation and thus ensure you get the right financing with the right bank, according to your own unique situation. It is also very important to ascertain what sort of loan to value you can expect to obtain and

what the costs involved are so that you know how much of your own funds are going to be required to complete the purchase. This is key to completing the purchase.

At HB Mortgages, we offer a total mortgage financing solution for our clients, entirely in English, and based at our office in VilleneuveLoubet. we are partnered with multiple French Retail Banks and Monegasque Private Banks, which enables us to obtain the best possible terms and conditions due to our ability to tailor the relevant bank that will most benefit the client.

Our knowledge and industry contacts have been developed over 15 years of working in France for international and local banks based here on the Riviera and across France, so we know exactly how things work to help you in getting a mortgage. we offer financing solutions across the entirety of the French

Get in the Ring Sophia

lent networking possibilities. There will be startups, large groups, investors, funders, accompanying experts and actors of innovation to extend the business meetings.

This day is beneficial whether you have a startup or if you support and development structures, have a consulting business or a company with programs dedicated to Startups.

Participate in an exceptional day to accelerate your business! Investors or financiers are encouraged to participate and discover future opportunities.

Online registration for Get In The Ring Sophia Antipolis: girt@ba06.com 

The international pitch competition By MARINA CARVALHO iviera Press’ START Magazine and BA06 Accelerator are coorganizing the 5th French final of Get in the Ring on 24 October 2019 as part of Sophia Antipolis' 50th anniversary celebrations. During the event, start-ups will be able to compete in Get in the Ring Sophia Antipolis by starting in the morning with a coaching session in English followed by the jury selection.

In conjunction with this, "15-minute matches" will be organised between investors/financers and major groups present in order to multiply business opportunities.

At 6:30 pm, four finalists will compete in the ring during 3 pitch battles, each including five 30-second rounds in front of the audience and a jury of investors. The winners will compete in the GITR international final and represent France. The Get in the Ring Sophia Antipolis Award Show will be followed by a cocktail reception with excel-

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Riviera, from Monaco to Aix-en-Provence, and anywhere elsewhere in France. So please do not hesitate to contact us for a mortgage quote should you be looking outside of the PACA region. If you would like to discuss the options and go through the process of getting a mortgage in France, we would be happy to talk you through the stages and how it all works. we can either be contacted by phone or through our contact page and an adviser will reply to you directly.  www.hbmortgages.fr

Dylan Lewis, Senior French Mortgage Adviser 1752 route Nationale 7, 06270 villeneuve-Loubet Tel. + 33 (0) 4 92 08 06 41 dylan.lewis@hbmortgages.fr

June / JulY / augusT 2019

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INSPIRING REAL ESTATE The home of your dreams, made to order Jörg Frauenfeld, owner of inspiring real estate construction company believes that creating the perfect home is a lot like creating the perfect meal.

He tells riviera insider how being a successful contractor requires the skills of head chef.

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W

e all can cook…… but it’s not as tasty as cuisine from a Michelin-Star Chef.

This is a perfect metaphor for the construction and property world.

A head chef works with his trusted suppliers to acquire the best tasting, most sustainable and freshest ingredients.

A head chef designs the menu.

A head chef ensures taste consistency between starter, main course and dessert. well the same is true for us as your head Construction and Project manager. we design, plan, build or refurbish your villa on the Côte d’Azur, with the quality and consistency of head chef.

As your one-stop partner, we orchestrate our partners – reliable, certified and proven craftsmen - with whom we have established a successful and trusting relationship since 2010.

As your head Construction Manager, we design your building project based on your wishes and taste preferences, like ordering à la carte. we can also consult, advice and recommend alternatives if you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for. we perform all those tasks, without you needing to be on-site. Our goal is to make you feel as if you’re live on your construction site, even if you’re far away. we steer and oversee your construction project, including all administrative tasks from building application, design, contractor short lists and tender, to site supervision, commissioning and compliance. Transparency and meticulous reporting are key to our service provision and part of our core values.

Jörg Frauenfeld from Inspiring Real Estate with friend and star chef, Daniel Ettlinger.

Our goal is to ensure the seamless occupation of your property, so that when you set foot in your villa everything works and you’re on holiday straight away. we also remain at your service to continue to maintain and enhance your property once the construction process is complete.

Let’s discuss how we can assist you with our endto-end Construction and Property approach, customized to meet your individual taste and budget so we can ‘cook’ the home of your dreams. we are happy to connect you to our existing clients for references. 

Jörg Frauenfeld / Inspiring RealEstate SARL +33 (0)6 83 99 55 57 / jf@inspiringrealestate.com / inspiring-realestate.com

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ADVERT

Donati Property Services Choose peace of mind

ased in Mandelieu-La-Napoule, Donati Property Services manages prestigious villas and houses throughout the French Riviera. Their credo is trust, discretion, confidentiality, efficiency and quality of service. Entrust your property to an exceptional partner with values rooted in its knowhow.

Architect and decorator for more than 20 years, Olivier Donati built a unique relationship of trust with his clients. Over time, they asked him to offer them more... They wanted him to manage and maintain their assets because they trusted him most. with Donati Property Services, their wishes have been met. The

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your needs. From the management of mail and administrative procedures and monitoring of the site, to the delivery of meals at home, consolidate your requests to a single contact person and let the professionals do the work.

For real estate professionals and agencies, Donati Property Services also addresses you, becoming a privileged interface with your clients and positioning itself as the cornerstone of a win-win partnership thanks to an operating team ready to intervene on all types of projects with speed, confidence and confidentiality. ď ¸

agency guarantees effective management and stewardship of your property thanks to a large network of professionals at their disposal.

Top-of-the-line services designed for your peace of mind Management of villas during your absence or during your stay; concierge services to allow you to fully enjoy your visit; maintenance and current work inside or outside your property (villa, green spaces, swimming pool, etc.); architecture and renovation and even rental management. whatever your requirements, Donati Property Services will be able to meet them, becoming true guardians dedicated to

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Olivier Donati Domaine de Marande 55, chemine du Bon pin 06210 Mandelieu Tel. 06 28 25 06 59 www.donati-services-property.fr

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Own a piece of paradise New apartments in « Les Domaines de Saint Endréol » ocated in the countryside of the Côte d'Azur, these homes will offer their customers residential real estate in a secure and luxuriously furnished complex. The bright two- and three-room apartments are located in three separate cottages. All of the generously proportioned apartments have a terrace or balcony with a south-west orientation. The modern interior not only contains highquality materials (such as large-format tiles, large bathtub, fully equipped American kitchen...), but also has the green qualities of a low-energy house (heat pump, acoustic insulation, etc.). On request, the apartments can be furnished and ready for occupancy in consultation between the customer and their interior architect.

In addition to access to the year-round 18hole golf course and the 2,000 square-metre spa area, residents of the new hamlet “Le Riou” have access to a large outdoor pool with panoramic views, two tennis courts and, of course, the

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in one of the Côte d’azur’s most beautiful golf resorts, a small and pretty residential complex with twelve apartments will be built in the immediate vicinity of the clubhouse, golf course and spa facilities.

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Clubhouse and restaurant in a magnificent setting, serving fresh an refined cuisine.

St Endreol is not only for passionate golfers but you can also enjoy life far away from the hustle and bustle of the coast, which is less than 30 minutes away.  Prices starting from 326,000 Euro.

CONTACT: Les Domaines de Saint endréol Golf & Spa resort 4300, route de Bagnols-en-Forêt 83920 La Motte-en-Provence Mme elisabeth Lutz Tel. +33 (0)4 94 51 89 93 e.lutz@st-endreol.com www.st-endreolimmobilier.com www.st-endreol.com

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Riviera Press celebrates

«Les Beaux Jours» at the Manoir de l'Etang Fotos von THOMAS LEMAIRE

Our numerous celebrations each time have a different motto, which was not easy at the beginning of May. Celebrate spring? Too late.

Celebrate the summer? Too early. Finally we agreed on "Les Beaux Jours" or, the beautiful season. But the most important occasion of our regular parties is always the same: Spend some wonderful hours together with readers, friends and partners. Such moments have no price in our fast-paced time! Almost 200 guests came to

the enchanting Manoir de l'Etang in Mougins - a true piece of paradise in a Provencal ambience - and stayed until late in the evening.

The extremely attentive service, the enchanting performer Marie Electra Violonist and the support of our loyal partners Adams & Adams, Åre water France, Blue Coast, Hastens, Lamborghini, Neron Glacier, Thibault SAS and Photographer Thomas Lemaire made the event a great success.

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(1) werner Bauer, German director living in Nice (2) Ryan Frost and Jack Camille, of Harrison Brooks (3) ewis Longman (R) with friend, Damien Short (4) Juliette Clarkin, President of Mimosa Matters with Gemma Bishop, member of the Mimosa Committee (5) Sophie Gastal and Maxime d'Artigues of OpĂŠra Nice (6) Riviera Insider Editorin-Chief Nicole Ruskell (r.), George Kasiliyake, President of the Riviera Business Club and Judy Nash, Vice President of the American Club of the Riviera (7) Moving entrepreneur Michel Lemoine and wife (8) Maeva Buade, Business life coach and Michel Gomiz, Advertising Director of Palaces magazine JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

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(1) Anette wolf (l.), Allgemeinmedizinerin in Le Cannet, und Christa Mund-Hoym (2) Valérie Lemaire, L’Atout Consultant (3) Christian May und Frau, Next 125 (4) Von links: Judy Nash, American Club of the Riviera, Nicole Ruskell, Judys Mann Jonathan Nash, Kate Adams, und Gesundheits-Kolumnistin Christine Kjeldbjerg (5) Marylène Gimenez, SA Golf Claux Amic, und Daphné wiik, Fotografin (6) Die wunderbare Violinistin Marie Electra (7) Unterwasserfotografin Gaby Fey (l.) und RZ-Gründerin Petra Hall (8) Dorothée und Gerhard Jacobs, Pfarrer der deutschen evangelischen Kirche Nizza Côte d’Azur JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

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Riviera Press Out and About With so many events to cover, the editorial team stays busy! Here are a few shots of us out and about…

Festival de Yacht’: Ai Cannes ‘Arte la Editor-in- Stöckmann (L), C Zeit with hief of RivieraD Director ieter Kosslick, of the Ber Film Scho lin ol and fo ale rmer Film Fest ival Direc tor.

h at launc duct haël in o r p ew ), ap The n ty Spa L.R aphael (L Beau es. Ronit R sident of e r le n Can er and p nd Nico f a foundhael Spa or-in-Chie L.Rap ll (R), Edit er e Rusk iera Insid of Riv

niera I (L), Rivnd Jeana ir e r ra ic er Rui F freelance electron ), sider l Jarre (R Cannes . y t e a it h d ativ Mic legen f Cre music Festival o ent Rui to s Lions a Insider s Lions e r Rivie the Cann his posts r ll e a cov al. See Festiv tagram: s on In eswork. o @zud

e new on of th gurati e in Monteu a n In u ll, Ediboutiq Fendi icole Ruske ra N Carlo: hief of Rivie tor-in-C r Inside

he n of t tonde o uratio Inaug sco’s La R ice: From e Negr urant in N mig, l Resta arbara Kimivoli Hote , r : L-R B r of Villa R e Meulle is owne e; Franco f Riviera o in Nic Director skell, u Sales ; Nicole R f Riviera o Press -in-Chief r Edito r e Insid

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Tennis classic Tour New happiness in the new club ormer tennis stars such as Nicolas Mahut, Mansur Bahrami or Michael Llodra will again be serving up balls in Saint-Tropez on 19 and 20 July - albeit at short notice and on new terrain: the tournament has announced a move from the harbour to the newly renovated Municipal Tennis Club for its 9th edition.

There, the ex-professionals will be showing off their skills in seven show matches - because they haven't lost the feeling for the yellow felt ball even long after the end of their career. Keeping a fun and jovial vibe, brilliant rallies are paired with gag interludes and laughs are guaranteed to come under the blazing summer sun of this hip little place.

The new tournament venue offers players and spectators a higher level of comfort, and the ranks also accommodate a larger audience. Also new: free entry to the stands in consultation with Mayor Jean-Pierre Tuveri.

Tickets can be picked up in advance at the Tourisme Office or during the day at the tennis club (Centre Philippot, Route des Plages). The number of tickers are limited, so reserve quickly! Tickets for the VIP boxes can also be purchased by calling the tournament director Christian Bimes at +33 (0)6 08 34 29 29.

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Programme:

"Clown" Mansur Bahrami is back in the game again © Florian Léger

valBonne Summer events in the village ne festival after the other is planned this summer which will enliven the small, friendly town of Valbonne. On the eve of Bastille day, for example, music and fireworks will be used to celebrate (13 July from 9 p.m., Place des Arcades), on 18 July a Baroque ensemble from Nice will perform in the Abbaye courtyard (9.30 p.m.), an open-air cinema will be shown at Place Bermond (Haut-Sartoux, 26 July, 9.30 p.m.), and in the village on

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Friday, 19 July - 4.30 p.m. Performance of regional talents.

5 - 9 p.m. singles and doubles of the Classic Stars.

6 p.m. Inauguration of the new club.

Saturday, July 20 - 10 am Tournament professional amateurs.

5 - 9 pm singles and doubles of the Classic-Stars. 

the street in front of the town hall (6 August, 9.30 p.m.).

A hippie festival is planned for 27 and 28 July in the old town, The Low Budget Men will perform on 2 August at 9.30 pm on the square in front of the town hall. Further rock and jazz concerts fall on 10 and 18 August, and the Fête de la St. Roch takes place from 14 to 16 August in the village.

For those who want to discover the village more, we recommend the weekly free guided tours: In July and August on Fridays at 3 p.m. (except on 12 July and 16 August, when it’s held on the Tuesdays before, i.e. on 9 July and 13 August, also at 3 p.m.). Register at least 24 hours in advance by calling +33 (0)4 93 12 34 50.  www.valbonne.fr

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Chanel invests in Vallauris Orange blossoms essential for their perfume

By NICOLE RUSKELL

he end of May marks the orange blossom harvest in Vallauris and for a few weeks, the air from the beaches of Golfe-Juan to the hills above Cannes is perfumed with the sweet, intoxicating scent of the creamy white flowers.

Orange blossoms were once the economic engine of Vallauris, providing numerous perfumeries with Néroli, the essential oil produced from the flowers. One litre of Néroli oil requires a good 1,000 kilos of hand-picked orange blossoms, which was no problem in the 1920s when the area harvested 80 tonnes of flowers per year - today they only produce five.

In 1956, there was a devastating deep freeze that decimated the orange groves and the perfume industry sought their Néroli in Tunisia. It was only Chanel who remained, adamant about sourcing quality ingredients from the same place they always have. It has been nearly 100 years since their famed Chanel No.5 was created and at the time, there were around 300 Néroli producers in Vallauris, only a tenth of which remain today.

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© De Iness la luz

Chanel plans to change this. In June, the fashion house announced that by 2020, they will supply 600 orange trees across a network of orange groves in Vallauris and Golfe-Juan. working with Maison Mul in Pégomas, they will supply Citrus Aurantium L., a historical variety native to the two towns and particularly fragrant.

Maison Mul is a 5th generation family business and has been supplying Chanel with Iris, jasmine, tuberose and orange blossom since 1987.

They work with Cooperative Nérolium, an or-

Skål International: Power for Tourism

ganisation of orange blossom growers founded in 1904. Both Chanel and Maison Mul are committed to reviving this special crop and the addition of 600 trees should bring production levels up to 50 tonnes of harvest. Under the deal, Chanel is guaranteed the harvest, which will go into their perfumes, including their latest creation, Paris-Riviera.

The addition of several hundred orange blossom trees will be a boon not only to the economy, but also the heritage of Vallauris, re-granting it the prestige of years gone by. 

By PETRA HALL

15,000 members in 355 clubs around the world

romoting worldwide tourism and international friendship is the motto of the Skål Club, founded in Paris in 1932. It is the only association that brings together managers from the entire tourism industry. Now based in Torremolinos, Spain, the club is represented in over 90 countries. Skål International is also very active on the Côte d'Azur under the presidency

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of Nicolle Martin. At the beginning of the summer, a soiree was held at the Hotel Château Le Cagnard in Cagnes-sur-Mer with 64 representatives of the regional travel industry. The aim: "Business among friends". Among the guests were the mayor of Cagnes-sur-Mer, Louis Nègre, and the Skål president of Provence, Isabelle Salle.

Skål International on the Côte d'Azur currently has 70 members, and the number is rising.  Info: www.skal-cote-dazur.fr

Innauguration of Myriam Cluet Fragonard Fragrance © Skal International - Côte d’Azur

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Golf Club

18-hole course | Pratice - Academy | Pro-Shop- Bar-Restaurant

Lieu dit “Claux-Amicâ€? - 06130 GRASSE TĂŠl. : 04 93 60 55 44 - Fax : 04 93 60 55 19 - E-mail : info@claux-amic.com www.claux-amic.com

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1 or 2 week courses for adults, from April till October Daily 4 to 6 h of classes in small groups of level + 6 h informal practice of French Motivated international public, elementary till advanced level (A2-C1) Warm hospitality and gourmet cuisine, cultural activities and sports facilities Special programmes : French for expats, French and yoga, French and cuisine www.crealangues.com

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Club Vivanova New corporate venture lub Vivanova’s newly launched corporate platform offers connections and promotion to local and international qualified partners with a business concierge service, a partnership at a Club Vivanova gourmet events plus other exclusive networking and brand-building benefits. 

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www.clubvivanova.com

Mimosa gives back The local cancer charity cuts giant checks! imosa Matters continues to be a force to be reckoned with on the local cancer charity front.

On 4 May, they hosted their annual Irish Golf Day at Royal Mougins Golf Club, which not only attracted local expats but also many Irish visitors who flew in specifically for the event. Judy Hayes and John Cantrell organised the event, which made for a merry day of “craic agus ceol”, (fun and singing) and also much laughter. After all was said and done, the event raised well over €10,000.

The money that Mimosa raises goes directly to local cancer support centres. In June, the organisation was delighted to give out gigantic cheques from their previous fundraisers, including the Kids Fun Run. The premise behind the charity run - for kids by kids - is to raise money

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JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

for children’s cancer support.

Along with numerous children who participated in the Fun Run, Mimosa presented a cheque for €8,779 to La Ligue, who is investing in specialized robots for the kid’s oncology ward at L’Archet Hôpital in Nice. These robots will act like their eyes and ears to the outside world. Many of the children in the ward will spend weeks or even months inside the hospital and in some cases with little or no contact due to their sterile environment needs. So these robots can attend family gatherings for them, go on outings and keep them in touch with the outside world.

Mimosa also presented a cheque for €16,500 to La Ligue Contre le Cancer to help with their

continued support of l’Espace Ligue in Antibes, a space that welcomes cancer patients and offers them various complimentary treatments like reflexology, sophrology, aesthetician advice as well as psychological support to the patients and their loved ones. All of this is for free so the donations are most needed.

And finally, they also donated to the Tzanck Oncology Centre in Mougins which also offers classes, advice and holistic therapies to patients during their treatment at the hospital. These nonmedical treatments and support are a huge part of the healing and recovery process for so many and Mimosa volunteers work tirelessly to support these associations. 

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COMMUNITY riviera

exPaT focus: shaun murPhY

Founder PETRA HALL p.hall@riviera-press.fr Publishing Director SEBASTIEN FRAISSE s.fraisse@riviera-press.fr

as I stood afront the foremast. I remember thinking “This is amazing!”

What was the most surprising thing about living here?

riginally from Southeast o England, Shaun Murphy is a chartered engineer living in Monaco. In the midst of a successful career in offshore rig operations, he decided to take to the seas and follow his dream of visiting 100 countries. He bought a sailboat in Athens, had it restored and started a yacht charter company called Riviera Sailing Vacations, taking groups and individuals on sailing trips along the French Riviera.

What brought you to the south of france/monaco? work really – I used to work for an oil company in Monaco as a Chartered Engineer in charge of systems for the world’s biggest fleet of oil production units.

What made you up and leave your job?

I had an opportunity to take a voluntary redundancy from my previous company and I did the 5 levels of Yachtmaster certification to Yachtmaster Ocean whilst sailing the Atlantic.

People can now sleep on my boat at night in the marina and I can also take them out on trips if they wish. My company was also nominated for the THA European travel awards and has received only 5 star reviews, so people must really enjoy it.

JulY / augusT/ sePTemBer 2019

how did you get the idea for your business?

The idea came to me during the slow days of sailing the Atlantic whilst I was getting passage miles for my Ocean Yachtmaster.

It seemed like a good way forward.

You have a goal of visiting 100 countries. how far have you gotten?

I am an ardent traveller and I have visited around 90 countries so far. I thought that yachting would help tick off several. It is hard to pick a favourite place, but New Zealand, Rome and the Vienna Christmas Markets are definitely top of my list.

What’s your favourite thing about living here?

I love classic regattas and have sailed on a few beautiful yachts, most notable being Prince Albert of Monaco’s Royal Yacht Tuiga, Errol Fynn’s Karenita and the beautiful schooner Doriana. In fact one of my most memorable times was at the St Tropez Classic Regatta on the Doriana as we sailed out along the Golfe de St Tropez. with the wind picking up, the schooner crashed through the sea with dozens of classics all around and sent a 5 metre bow wave over the foredeck completely soaking me

France is a first world nation but is really bureaucratic. They still rely on post for many things when other countries have moved over to electronic forms decades ago. Also the transport network is always on strike. I heard a rumour that the rail network went on strike a few years ago because they didn’t like the way they were portrayed in the press from the previous time they were on strike – that made me smile whilst waiting for my Uber!

What are your favourite places in the region?

I love the hustle and bustle of Monaco where I live but escaping to the old medieval towns of StPaul-de-Vence, Dolce Aqua and éze helps to break things up nicely. Good tips for days out are the Mushroom restaurant in Italy (Ristorante Ca' Mea), La via ferrata in Peille, Les voiles des St Tropez and of course a day sailing on my boat! I really love this little spot in Baie-St-Laurent off Cap d’Ail on the Beaulieu side. There is a lovely little cove with a cave to explore.

Last week I had a family staying on-board for the week and I took them for a 3-day journey to the Lérin Isles off Cannes. It’s fun when the ice cream, pizza and sushi boats come around. You wave them down like at a football game and guests get a kick out of that.

do you have any insider tips for newcomers?

If I started again, I would immediately join some of the many networking organisations like Club Vivanova, Internations, Monaco USA, CREM, etc. and start meeting people quickly. There is a thriving expat community here and everyone is friendly. 

Managing Director BICH LECOURT b.lecourt@riviera-press.fr Editor-in-Chief NICOLE RUSKELL n.ruskell@riviera-press.fr Contributors Annika Bremicker, Marina Carvalho, Rui Ferreira, Petra Hall, Christine Helfritz, Irene Hell, Karen Hockney, Sarah Hyde, Christine Kjeldberg, Lewis Longman, Paul Oataway, Aila Stöckmann & Alfred Thum Creative Director VINCENT ARTUS vincent.artus@wanadoo.fr Advertising & PR FRANCOISE MULLER Tel: +33 (0)4 97 00 11 29 f.muller@riviera-press.fr PATRICE SAINT-LEGER Tel: +33 (0)4 93 27 60 00 p.saintleger@riviera-press.fr DANIEL NARO Tel: +33 (0)4 93 27 60 00 d.naro@riviera-press.fr Event Manager DOMINIQUE FREULON Tel: +33 (0)4 97 00 11 22 d.freulon@riviera-press.fr Secretary CAROLE HEBERT contact@riviera-press.fr 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. © 2015-2019 by Riviera Press s.a.r.l.

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