The Riviera Times - July 2010 by Riviera Press

Check out our website, updated daily with news and events! Issue 100 - July 2010

e 2.50

Guettas United in Nice

A summer ripe with melons

www.rivieratimes.com with

Obama’s man in France

Better times on blue beaches?

Prince Albert II set to wed his ‘princess’ THE PRINCE’S Palace in Monaco has announced the engagement of the Sovereign Prince Albert II to his longtime girlfriend Charlène Wittstock. The news is not unexpected, the couple have been together for four years and speculation regarding an engagement has been rife for sometime. The Monegasques have been waiting for the 52-year old Prince, son of Prince Rainier III and Hollywood beauty Grace Kelly, to find his ‘princess’ since he succeeded his father on the 12th of July 2005. Now it seems he has finally settled on Miss Wittstock, 32, who was born in Zimbabwe and grew up in South Africa. Miss Wittstock has been an Olympic swimmer and was a nursery school teacher before she came to Monaco. The wedding is due to take place next summer.

FEE flags: a good investment or a waste of mairies’ money

here were red flags blowing in the breeze on several of the Var’s beaches last month. The sea was a no-go zone; swimming was completely forbidden. These flags were a poignant symbol of the devastating floods that hit the Var on the 15th and 16th of June: as a result of the hinterland rivers overflowing and rushing into the sea, the quality of the seawater was no longer safe for swimmers. Now the rain has stopped falling, the clouds have cleared and swimming is not forbidden any more. But still

those beaches that currently have the prestigious Blue Flag may lose it next year because any water samples taken in the period immediately after the flood may not reach the high standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and yet may count towards their future application. This is what happened to Sainte-Maxime, who lost their Blue Flag in 2010 thanks to heavy flooding the year before detrimentally affecting the water quality and showing up in tests taken shortly afterwards. So is the criteria for FEE too

rigid? And is the 'cult’ of the Blue Flag even justified? Surely non-Blue beaches up and down the Riviera are clean, safe and just as fun? For those of you that have no idea what a Blue Flag is, it's time to listen carefully. This Flag is basically the Michelin star of the beach world. Each year a town can make an application and FEE, which is a non-profit and nongovernmental organisation, will decide if it ticks the right boxes. Currently, the federation has selected more than 3450 beaches and leisure ports in 41 countries around

How to Velo Bleu INEXPENSIVE, efficient and environmentally friendly: Nice’s Vélo Bleu sounds like a dream. Alas, like most things, the idea is better on paper than in practice.... Continued page 6

the world. It is internationally recognised as a guarantee of a clean, safe and secure beach. Despite the difficulty and expense of obtaining a golden nod from FEE the number of Difficult days ahead beaches and ports with Flags A couple of months into the has increased since 1987. job and Monaco's new There are 341 in France, in 124 Minister of State Michel Roger towns. 10 are in the Var and showed that he has a good five in Alpes-Maritimes. In grasp of the challenges Italy there are 231 in 117 ahead... Continued page 10 towns, Liguria leading with 17. The RT has interviewed several local authorities R 28055 - 91 - F : 2,50 e this month to try to work out what a Blue Flag really means. Continued on page 3

OUT & ABOUT 2

July 2010

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Editorial All four corners of the globe A curious email landed in my inbox recently. The subject regarded a subscription, so nothing unusual. Or at least it wouldn’t have been if the subscriber hadn’t been a Japanese man who lived in, well, Tokyo, Japan. It reminded me that I live in one of the most international places in the world, somewhere people flock to from every corner of the world. It also reminded me that the reach of The Riviera Times goes further than the name suggests. Few celebrate this fact as much as we do ourselves. Now on our 100th edition, we continue to strive to publish local news stories from the perspective of English-speakers on the Riviera. Our view is not British, American or Australian, not any one nation’s. Rather we reflect the rich cultural diversity that’s integral to the region's social landscape. Personally, I've never felt so international. Many of my friends here defy national identity: they've lived everywhere and speak as many languages as they have fingers. Around them, I'm more alive than ever.

Completely disgusting What a great headline: ‘Sacred art or sadistic slaughter?’. But that was the only thing I liked about your article on the Damien Hirst exhibition last month. OK, he is a controversal artist, but I find his work simply disgusting. Prince Albert wanted the Oceanopraphic Museum to be brought to life, and what is the result? Dead animals! A sheep cut in half, the wings of thousands of butterflies and many other terrible things. All that for a mere two million euros. Is the world completely mad? Yes, Damien Hirst is indeed, a real genius. He became a millionnaire by producing sadistic art. If people really feel the need to see grotesque things then why don’t they just get in a ghost train - at least the beasts in there are made of plastic. Susan Simmons, by Email

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Late-night joints I live in the old town and I am sure that shops that stay open late make it safer at night. I often work until after dark and I am always happy to see the little grocery lights on around each corner on my way home. Because no matter what the Mairie says there are hardly any police around. Hilary Butler

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NEWS July 2010

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Blue beaches better? FEE Flags: a good investment or a waste of the mairies’ money Continued from front page

So is the Blue Flag really that important? And when it comes to the crunch, does it influence tourists on the beaches, and thus villages and towns they go to for their holiday? We asked several town authorities, some blue and some not, for their view. Some towns chose not to answer our questions: Villefranche-sur-Mer, Ramatuelle, Cagnes-sur-Mer and Bormes-les-Mimosa. Interestingly all of these do not have the sacred flag. Town authorities in Antibes were more obliging however: "Our town was the first in the Alpes-Maritimes to get the Pavillon Bleu," they told us proudly. "Since 1994 we have gone on to receive this award a further 10 times. The environment is the highest priority for us." They believe that the flag is very important for Antibes, having a particularly positive influence on international visitors who tend to be more concerned about their safety or security on the beaches than locals. Other villes with the Blue Flag are Nice and Cannes. Both of these have a strong focus on protecting those in the water: think Baywatch with lots of toned, tanned

Alpes-Maritimes Antibes-Juan les Pins Cannes, Cap d’Ail Nizza Vallauris

Var

Hyères La Croix-Valmer La Londe-les-Maures Le Lavandou Le Pradet Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer Sainte-Maxime Six-Fours-les-Plages Toulon lifeguards in tiny speedos. This year some of these lifesavers will be patrolling the coast with jetskis, enabling them to react more quickly in an emergency. There is also a drive in both towns towards a more environmentally friendly beach experience, with the arrival of new bins that separate the litter for recycling. In the Var, the beaches of Le Lavandou are leading lights. The Communications Director told us, "To get a Blue Flag it is paramount to keep constant control over the quality of the water and the property that belongs to the beach because independent inspectors working on behalf of FEE can do a spot-check at any given time

without warning." They too believe that the Blue Flag has an impact on the number of foreigners who choose their beaches over others in the region. They say this is especially the case with those tourists coming from other European countries. Heading back east, Menton officials are equally proud to be without the flag. They say, this is something they themselves decided. To meet the criteria for FEE is a costly undertaking and with this in mind they chose to completely bypass the application process and use their budget instead to invest in the leisure services that their beaches can provide. Of course, the Blue Flag towns are going to blow their own trumpet; and with the financial investment and hardwork they’ve had to put in, who can blame them. However, the point Menton makes is that a beach can be just as fun, if not more so, without one. With the cleanliness of sea water, and its boundaries, difficult to define at the best of times, the only answer is to experience beaches with your own eyes if it looks clean, you feel safe and love swimming there then that’s all the flag you need.

After the flood Death toll prompts questions about adequate precautions

pocalyptic visions emerged from the Var last month, after torrential rainfall plagued the region for several days. The scenes were impossible to comprehend: battered cars floating down rivers that were only hours before normal village streets. Residents surrounded by water and stranded on roofs and terraces waiting to be airlifted to safety, buildings destroyed. Most devastating of all: the death toll. At the time of going to press there were 25 confirmed dead, the majority of fatalities occurring to people travelling in vehicles. With people still missing, there are fears that more bodies are yet to be found. The worst affected areas included Draguignan, Les Arcs, Roquebrune-sur-Argens and Trans-en-Provence. This latest weather disaster to hit the region, the worst flood since 1827, left a tragic trail of death in its wake. Among the victims; a Dutch woman in Fréjus who was swept away in a caravan towed by her husband; a 19year-old mechanic, crushed in his car in Draguignan; and an 18-month-old baby, taken by the water from his mother's

arms in Roquebrune. Damage to property was extensive and normal life came to a standstill. “I’ve never seen anything like it, we saw 330mm of rain in 15 hours,” RT reader and Var resident Elisabeth Kahler told us. “We were lucky but in

The Var resembled a war zone

Draguignan it’s like war zone, the river overflowed and it looked like a tsunami wave had hit the town.” 200 000 homes were without electricity, and schools, shops and offices shut. Travelling was a nightmare, with roads closed and trains cancelled. Government leaders, including the president, rushed to the disaster site. One million euros was made immediately available, from national funds, for the recovery operation and

more will be provided. This same sum was given to Nice and Cannes in the aftermath of the coup de mer in April and the situation this time around is seemingly far worse. It is almost incomprehensible that two “natural disasters” of this scale could occur in the region in such quick succession. It highlighted for the second time in as many months how important it is to be prepared for extreme weather conditions. As water filled and flooded streets quickly on Tuesday night, it is clear that many urban and residential areas are not designed to cope with heavy rainfall. Furthermore, it has been suggested that this kind of catastrophe is exacerbated because a culture of risk does not exist in France. French senator, Bruno Retailleau, speaking at a press conference, said that France must take better precautions against the risk of floods, which are the nation’s most common 'natural disaster'. The country, he went on, has the tools to work with and the regulations in place to take preemptive measures against freak weather behaviour but most often these are not used adequately. HM

NEWS 4 July 2010

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Obama’s American man in Paris

The US Ambassador on bilateral relations and taking Hollywood stars to the banlieues

s the official face of the United States in France, Charles Rivkin is living his very own American dream. "I'm the luckiest guy in the world, no question about it," the US Ambassador to France and Monaco recently told The Riviera Times. This kind of unguarded enthusiasm is typical of the fomer media man: whether discussing the Franco-US alliance, his current projects or the virtues of the French lifestyle, the same positive energy is applied. Sworn in on 3rd of August 2009, Charles Rivkin stepped from the world of entertainment into diplomacy. His lineage (his father was ambassador to Luxembourg under Kennedy and Senegal under Johnson) and his love for France (he lived in Brittany at 17 and has returned to the country often) make him the perfect choice for the prestigious Paris post. "To be here at the moment, given the strength of FrancoAmerican relations, and to be the personal representative of President Obama is extraordinary," he says, adding that the relationship between

France and the States is at its strongest in 50 years: "With the election of Presidents Sarkozy and Obama, and with France’s reintegration into NATO, France is by America's side on every major issue." Monaco too is a strong ally with Obama and Prince Albert in sync on almost every point of foreign policy.

Ambassador Rivkin meeting RT editor Hannah Marshall in Cannes

Rivkin adds that the US is in a fortunate position at present because Obama has a high popularity rating with the French, which in turn makes this an opportune moment to advance their initiatives. The embassy is America's oldest: As far back as the 1700s Benjamin Franklin and John Adams were making the

first diplomatic missions. Today there are offices in seven locations across France, providing a home for 1,000 employees and 51 US government agencies. So what role does the modern ambassador play? Primarily, says Rivkin, the job is dedicated to advancing the bilateral relationships between the US and France and the US and Monaco and, of course, ensuring the safety and security of Americans in these countries. This encompasses farreaching issues, from conflict and peace in Afghanistan to global warming and the economic crisis. Rifkin is also pushing a number of additional projects. At the forefront is the green initiative, which reflects the importance of the environment to the President and US Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton. "As embassies are the face of our country to the world" Rivkin organised a conference in Paris earlier this year with 20 US embassies in Europe to discuss both the "greening" of official residences and other ways US representatives in foreign countries can demonstrate

the "importance of green". Equally exciting is the integrated youth strategy: "I'm the youngest person to have the honour of holding this job in 60 years and although I'm not young (48) I want to reinvent how we communicate with local constituents." To reach the next generation of French and Monegasque leaders, the embassy are using Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites and are also doing outreach work with young people living in the capital’s banlieues (suburbs). The scheme has provided the ambassador with some memorable moments, most notably when he introduced local kids to a Hollywood star: "I had been in La Corneuve, asking students what they like about America. They replied, 'We love Samuel L Jackson, we love Will Smith, Jay-Z', all these guys, and I had said, 'Well who knows, maybe one day I'll bring one of them back to see you.' The next day, I noticed that some bloggers were questioning whether I'd deliver on my promise. By good fortune, I saw that Samuel L Jackson was in Paris so I called him up and we made a trip to the banlieue. He

Another ‘no’

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then gave a wonderful speech about what it had taken to grow up in America in the 1950s. I mean he is a living embodiment of the American Dream and I think he was able to put a face to the US that is very true and representative.” Being only six days after his initial commitment, Rivkin jokes that his delivery was pretty timely. However, his intention in recounting this story is not only to prove that he is a man who keeps his word but also to demonstrate how the media can act as a bridge between nations. This is something he is particularly keen to stress, in part because of his own background (as CEO and President to enter-

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DEVELOPERS ALTARÉA had their proposal to develop a Family Village centred on an Ikea store near Mougins rejected, again, nearly five years after the project first appeared on the horizon. In 2006 news of an Ikea store for the Saint-Martin district emerged, a proposal opposed by neighbouring Mouans-Sartoux. In October 2007 the CDEC (Commission départementale d'équipement commercial) rejected the plan, a decision later overturned by the Conseil d'Etat (advises the government on legal matters). Last month the CNAC (Commission nationale d'aménagement commercial) considered the proposals and rejected them.

Diplomacy in his genes: George Rivkin, US Ambassador to France

tainment corporations). "I happen to understand the power of media and how it can be used in diplomacy. Not only with visits from celebrities but in terms of promoting jobs, for example. I'd love to create an environment where American companies want to invest in France and Monaco and to employ more of their citizens." This brings the ambassador neatly to the subject of the economy, another focus. Every day some 1.5 billion US dollars pass between America and France and with 750,000 French employed by US companies here and some 540,000 Americans working for French companies in the States the links are enormous. And of course he still has time to look after his flock. “A large part of the job is engaging with US organisations and supporting them. I have a ton of exposure to American citizens living here and the overall feeling is that they feel as I do, which is how fortunate they are to be living in this extraordinary country, how much they love both America and France and thus how important it is to have a good bilateral relationship.” HM

RIVIERA TIMES NEWS July 2010

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Riviera A-Z hits stands Now also on www.riviera-a-z.com!

he latest edition of our indispensable directory was unveiled to the public at a party hosted at Banque Populaire's international branch in Nice.

Mediterraneum Editions and Banque Populaire welcomed a multi-national group of guests that included both clients and readers of The Riviera Times and Riviera Côte d'Azur Zeitung. The event opened with a

One hundred issues and counting Petra Hall with the team of Banque Populaire Côte d’Azur, partners of the Riviera A-Z: Jean-Philippe Dubar, Catherine Gaulier and Pierre Vallentin

Left to right: President of the Federation of Hotels, Nice Côte d’Azur, Michel Tschann; Jacques Pugnaire, Nice Rendez-vous; Filip Soete, Marketing Director Nice Côte d’Azur airport; Dominique Vigogne, director, SEC Monaco

Web designer Pascal Gerdsmeier, Unique, designed the new site www.riviera-a-z.com. Here with his girlfriend, Pamela Ghinamo

Alexander Walton Masters, Director of Columbus International, Cannes, with partner (l.) and Sabine Weber

presentation of the new guide from our Director, Petra Hall. “Taken together, expats and tourists are an economic force that cannot be ignored: native English, German, Italian and Russian speakers generate in the Alpes-Maritimes an income of several billion euros each year." It is for this

key group that the Riviera A-Z has been providing practical information for since 2007. This year the directory will also be available not only in hard copy but also online. www.riviera-a-z.com

Photos: Rebecca Marshall www.rebecca-marshall.com

In the amphitheater of our partner, Banque Populaire Côte d’Azur, guests listen to a presentation by Marketing Director, Sabine Weber

RT Marketing Assistant, Ab Kujer, President of the Riviera Philippe Bellissent from the Mairie de They were great! George Kasiliyake and his Petra Benzing and Riviera Business Club & Sylvie Amouyal, Nice and Audrey Scoffié, responsible Events by George team provided guests Times reader, Peter Hurn Amouyal Villa Management for media at CCI Nice Côte d’Azur with cocktails and delicious nibbles

2010 is the year of important Our "lock your car doors at all anniversa-ries: we’ve already had the 100th birthday of the Oceanographic Museum and 150 years of Nice in France. This month, biggest of all, we have 100 issues of The Riviera Times! This was going to be a lighthearted look back at the 100 issues, but the floods which devastated parts of the Var last month, and in which 25 people lost their lives, inevitably switched the focus. Here was a sober reminder of what havoc nature can play in this idyllic part of the world. Indeed it seems a lifetime ago since the canicule of 2003 and the terrible fires which ravaged the Var (Issue 19 Sept 03) that summer. Five months later the RT reported on the affect the drought had had on the mimosa festivals (issue 23 - Feb 04) and returned to the worst-affected area for fires around Plan de la Tour to see how they were faring (Issue 24 - March 04). Floods and fires apart there's been so much water under the bridge since the RT was launched in March 2002, and we have been riding that wave ever since to help the English-speaking international communities enjoy life better in this privileged region. We've seen the relentless rise and in some cases fall of the low cost airlines that have had such an impact on residents (issues 1, 22 and 49).

times" battle against the vol à la portière criminals was a campaign that drew criticism from some local authorities for painting a negative picture but was, for us, crucial for ensuring visitors had a good experience. Then there was the driving licence shake-up, the carte vitale updates and the pool security laws... as you can see, not much escapes the eye of an RT scribe. Yet it is also about sharing the good things in life: our beach reviews, our surveys of surfing venues and cool water spots to explore, the Côte d'Azur "through the eyes of the Masters" itinerary, a dangerous sports round-up, the tranquil gardens - the list of information we constantly try to put together for our readers knows no bounds. And of course there is the Monaco Times, devoted entirely to the Principality where a new era beckons with the engagement of Prince Albert II. We were there for you when Prince Rainier III passed away; our freelancer Rolf Palm's tribute (Issue 38 - May 05) opened the eyes of many to what the sovereign had achieved. Today, the RT continues to bring you the "insiders" view of the Principality as it does of the whole region from Marseille to Genoa. Here's to the next 100 issues! Claire Lathbury

LIFESTYLE 6

July 2010

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How to Velo Bleu

Straight from Paris With our US correspondent on holiday RT editor Hannah Marshall takes us a little closer to home: FestivalandCo Read online: www.rivieratimes.com/columns

A users guide to a smooth ride with Nice’s bicycle scheme INEXPENSIVE, efficient and environmentally friendly: Nice’s Vélo Bleu sounds like a dream. Alas, like most things, the idea is better on paper than in practice. As a regular user of the public bike rental scheme, I’ve been noting its faults. Top of the list for driving me mad is not being able to release a bike from a broken terminal followed by not being able to put it away because the station is full or the cable won’t lock (listen for the clicking noise). I’ve ridden away with a flat tyre and once paid 40 euros because I’d failed to understand the charges and took a bike for a whole day (my bad!). OK, so it’s a problem child, but still I love my vélo bleu nevertheless. And now I’m prepared for all it can throw at me... HM

W Photos by Sonja Kättner. Models: Katherine Pusey & Solveig Bostelmann

By following the instructions on the screen (in French or English) getting a vélo should be easy (above). It helps, of course, if you can find a bike in the first place (below). And it’s preferable if the breaks and gears work (a bell is a miracle). Once in the saddle it’s a great way to get around (left).

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You can register for the Vélo Bleu online (www.velobelu.org) or you can do so instantly from a station by calling +33 (0)4 30 00 30 01 and giving your credit card details. Sounds simple but many people have problems. You register for a day, week or year and pay accordingly. Once registered you use a card (sent to you by post) or call the number displayed on the menu screen. It’s free for the first half an hour, one euro for the next 30 minutes and two euros per hour thereafter.

The time it takes for the menu screen to appear can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry (above). And there’s nothing more annoying when you’ve been waiting for your options than discovering the bike station is broken (right). Everyone rides on the tram track but there are pitfalls (below).

hy do we tell stories? To create an image of who we are or to influence others? To make a statement, protest or rebel? To express ourselves, to say out loud: "This is what I believe in"? Or is it simply the case that we all enjoy spinning a good yarn? Such questions were at the heart of FestivalandCo in Paris last month, where Storytelling and Politics was the theme de jour. Contributing to the debate at this biannual, bilingual literary festival were Martin Amis, David Hare, Jeanette Winterson and Philip Pullman among others. Given that FestivalandCo is organised by an independent English-language bookshop, this is a pretty impressive line up; literary heavyweights don't often participate in the lit fests of little shops. Then again Shakespeare and Company is not so much a bookshop as it is a Parisian institution. Since American George Whitman opened its doors in 1951, it has given sanctuary to Allen Ginsberg, Anäis Nin, Henry Miller, Lawrence Durrell... My friend Anne Marsella introduced me to Shakespeare and Co. Anne, an author, had come to Paris in the 80s to study, had met a French man, got married and never gone back to California. Like many other Anglophones in the city, she often goes to events in the shop opposite Notre Dame. For the third FestivalandCo, Anne proposed a ‘Paris plot’: she dangled an invitation for a soiree with lots of intellectual types in front of me and I momentarily lost my sanity and booked the night train to Paris.

And was it worth the back pain from a barely reclining seat and the exhaustion from not a wink of sleep? Quite simply yes, it was. Not because I now have an armoury of brilliant dinner party stories about flirting with Marty and Dave at a swanky party in Paris (the best I can muster is a bare brush of Kristen Scott Thomas' skin against mine and this will not rival Dorothy Parker in the witty anecdote stakes). No, superstars aside, the festival itself stole the show. I've been to a lot of book events and it's rare to find such a charming combination of big ideas and big names with intimacy and togetherness. Here, writing in all its forms is celebrated and everyone is welcome. "I've seen a lot of people I know in the festival tent who don't normally go to readings," said one ex pat. "It’s free," her friend added, "so it encourages you to check it out." A personal highlight was Hanif Kureshi, who brilliantly articulated my own afflictions as a writer: "A new idea is like falling in love and if you’re lucky it lasts a week.” I also fell in love with The Porchlight Storytellers, two wisecraking women from San Francisco who invited others to the stage to tell tenminute tales about their Strange Bedfellows. The idea is simple genius; I mean everyone has at least one great story, right? The festival closed with a street party. It was damp and grey, yet a warm blanket enveloped all those standing on the lavender coated pavement outside the rickety shop front, toasting a truly lovely literary weekend.

MARSEILLE-VAR July 2010

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A black sheep misunderstood France’s second largest city deserves more than just a second glance

arseille is seen as a piece of coal in the crown that is Southern France,” says Sebastian, an artist who lives and works in Marseille. “Everyone raves about Saint-Tropez, Nice, Monte Carlo, but they know little: we have it all right here.” A knowing smile ripples across his face and he goes back to his coffee. Many of you may think Sebastian is wrong, or even mad, and if you are going by what so;e of the guidebooks say then you would probably have a point. Often they have vague, uninteresting chapters on the Phoenician city, and focus on its crime and spiralling immigration problems. These same books reflect instead our famous love affair with the glitzy, champagne-soaked French Riviera, an area which stretches from the Italian border, through Monte Carlo and on to Cassis, conveniently and abruptly halting just before it reaches France’s second largest city. Yet you only have to be in Marseille for a few hours to see the region’s supposed ‘black sheep’ is a misunderstood treasure.

marlee@dreamstime

Emblematic image: Notre Dame de la Garde basilica dominates

Twenty-six centuries have past since the Greeks established Marseille. Now, as France’s oldest city has grown in size, it has also grown in importance, developing into a vital port and global gateway. Strolling around the old port (Vieux Port) or sat near the Quai Des Belges watching the bustle of the daily fish market with a glass of pastis, one can sense all these years of diversity spilling out of every street and square. Overlooked by the imposing Notre Dame de la Garde basilica that dominates the skyline you are

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Enjoy the fresh air in Amsterdam by touring the city on a bicycle

immersed in the colours and aromas of many influences. As well as a bustling commercial port, the city is also served by the St Charles train station and the MarseilleProvence airport. So for many tourists arriving from Europe, it is their first contact with the Souther of France, yet many bypass their port of entry for resorts like Nice and Provencal towns such as Aix-enProvence. Mention the rivalry between his city and these more popular destinations and Sebastian does not understand why Marseille is

Animal refuge flooded AS every month, we had kept this space to introduce a dog in need of a home to you. July’s hopeful was called Inuit, but he does not need a home anymore. Tragically, Inuit was one of many dogs from an animal refuge in the Var who drowned during the torrential rainfall in mid-June. The keeper had no chance to save the animals. Parts of the refuge have been completely destroyed and the situation is chaotic. The animals that survived have to be placed somewhere else now and given the overcrowded conditions in other animal refuges this is proving difficult. Animal welfare organisation JOSHI is taking care of eight dogs and is now trying to find new homes for them. JOSHI is also helping to rebuild the facilities. Miraculous escape Incredibly, six days after the catastrophe 16 year-old Mask was found, utterly exhausted but alive. What is urgently needed are host families who can temporarily take care of a dog (such as Mask) and donations for the rebuild. For more information on how you could help and how to make a donation, please call Hannelore Salinger on +33 (0)4 94 77 19 03.

seen as a blot on the landscape or as a location you can easily detour. Fierce competition from other cities threatens to muscle out Marseille even further. This is particularly so with Nice whose tenacious mayor, Christian Estrosi, is striving to make it the most influential city in the south. Nice and other Mediterranean competitors now routinely compete for events that would have come to Marseille automatically in the past. Yet tourists who shun Marseille are missing out. Where else in the world can you visit a city that boasts a beautiful yacht-filled harbour, North African souk-style markets and a busy commercial centre? Mixed into this location are some of the best restaurants in the world including Le Petit Nice, one of only two in the region to be awarded three Michelin stars. And there’s no need to go up-market to enjoy the renowned Marseille delicacy bouillabaisse, a hearty fish stew infused with saffron. Moroccan and Algerian eateries are also affordable and delicious and give you a true sense of the diverse culture. Nearby you have the stunning

beaches of the Calanques (sheer limestone rocky inlets stretching as far as La Ciotat) and the desolate Château d’If island, which provided the setting for Alexandre Dumas’ Count of Monte Cristo. There is a light at the end of the tunnel: in 2013 Marseille is the European Capital of Culture, which is the perfect platform to show the world its potential. Being optimistic, there is a sense that the tide is again turning in Marseille’s favour. Hopefully the social and economic boost that often comes with being Capital of Culture will develop the city further; there are around 80 projects planned, including completion of the long-awaited Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations. Love it or hate it, Marseille is the epitome of what the modern day Riviera stands for: a beautifully diverse and intoxicating mix of different cultures working harmoniously to compliment the unique landscape and coastline of the south of France. It is a city the south should be proud of, as it is surely one of the most vibrant in France today. Tom Hudson

Art and wine VISITORS TO vineyards in the Var this summer should keep an eye on the walls of the cellars and reception areas. The federation of independent wine growers (Fédération des vignerons independants du Var) launched the 12th edition of art et vin last month. This year the initiative has selected 42 artists to exhibit in 33 vineyards and some of the displays will be in situ right through to the end of September. Photography, videos, sculptures, paintings and graffiti adorn the itinerary of the 33 vineyards taking part. Leaflets are available in tourist offices or check out www.art-et-vin.net

Bungee death JUST DAYS after the annual Lunar Park at Fréjus opened for the summer, a young man died after a bungee jump from a giant crane went wrong. The victim is thought to have jumped too soon before the crane had winched him to the correct height. The incident comes barely a year after nine people were injured when a cable snapped on a Sky Rider. Although the people in the gondola on the ride itself were saved by a second cable holding them in position, the broken one whipped down and struck several bystanders causing minor injuries.

SAINT-TROPEZ 8

July 2010

www.rivieratimes.com

Gala evening postponed

Michelin man’s snack menu

THE CHARITY gala SaintTropez for Life has been postponed until 2011. Professor David Kayat, head of the cancer department at the renowned Parisian hospital La Salpétrière, has explained that this is due to one of the main sponsors pulling out at short notice. Originally scheduled for the 17th of July, the soirée to benefit cancer research will now take place next year. The initiative supported by Jacques Chirac and Prince Albert II has already been a success in Paris and Monaco.

T H I S SUMMER, Michelin star chef Thierry Thiercelin, chef of the restaurant at the Villa Belrose hotel in Gassin since 1998, is to offer a reasonably priced ‘snackbar’. At noon, he will prepare light culinary delights in the typical Mediterranean Thiercelin style for the guests at the pool of the new Petit Belrose. “Here you can eat in a totally relaxed atmosphere with a sea view”, Thierry said. The guests have the choice between a menu (31-42 euros) or meals à la carte (main courses from 24 euros). In the evening, when the chef is on top form, eating in the main restaurant is an unforgettable experience. New for this season is a completely vegetarian menu (104 euros) that varies every two weeks. In ten courses, everything the Mediterranean gardens have to offer in the summer is served.

Helicopters land on water IN 2009 more than 10,000 helicopters flew over SaintTropez, causing a massive amount of noise pollution. Measures like a restriction on departures and landings and fixed times for these are now set to improve the quality of life for residents. This summer, a ‘Heliplatform’ in the open sea is to be tested for the first time. Here too, are strict guidelines. If successful, it is due to continue next year.

Modigliani revealed

Coveted works show the Master of Leghorn in a new light

ête, a sculpture by Amedeo Modigliani, was sold last month at a Christie's auction in Paris for 43.185 million euros. The final sum, reached after a furious bidding war for the elongated head, was not only the most ever been paid for a Modigliani but also set a record in France, thus becoming the most expensive piece of art purchased at French auction. This recent sale highlights the

Jean-Alexandre painted in 1909

current popularity of the Italian artist, whose death at the age 35 has meant that his works are scarce and highly sought after when they come up for auction. It also makes the exhibition of Modigliani's work in the L'Annonciade in Saint-Tropez this summer all the more remarkable and keenly anticipated. Obtaining works by the Italian master, who was born in Livorno in 1884, is notoriously difficult; loans often impossible. So this new exhibition has had to work around constraints to enhance various aspects of the artist's work for the viewer. This has led the museum to a focus on his drawings and graphic works, which are often overlooked when taken next to his paintings and sculptures but which are essential to his body of work as a whole. There are also a small number of his paintings on display, which are very much in the Modigliani style we are now accustomed to seeing. This show promises to have a

Modigliani’s Tête de femme, 1915, Pinacothèque de Brera, Milan

revelatory quality that, paradoxically in the modern world, doesn't delve into the personal scandals - the desperately handsome, brooding artist and his love affairs, substance abuse and tragic spiral towards untimely death - but rather places the focus on the work and what

that can, in turn, tell us about the man. HM Musée de l’Annonciade, 3rd July to the 18th October In next month's RT: a focus on the life and work of Amedeo Modigliani, one of the Twentieth Century most tragic and seductive artists.

Modern, safe and fully fit for summer Improvements mean La Mole airport is ready for its busiest season

uring summertime, the La Mole airport is an important traffic junction for holidaymakers in Saint-Tropez. Most of the 4000 flights each year are in July and August. At the moment, construction work is underway to modernise the airport. We spoke with the director, François André: RT: Tell us about the latest improvements? François André: Our airport receives private and commercial planes as well as scheduled flights three times a week from Genoa. In a few weeks, when the construction work is done, we will have a new control tower and a new bar/terrace. What do these changes mean in a practical sense?

With the new control tower, we will be implementing the most up-to-date technology. In addition, the bar and terrace, will be seen in a new light. Both will allow us improve the quality of service. The safety improvements are less visible: a new fence, 24h video surveillance as well as an electronic control system and extra protection against thieves. We are also working hard to maintain good environmental practice. As part of a UN-project and in collaboration with local environmental officers, we have planted more than 400 trees and bushes. Moreover, we have put in place important works that have allowed us to adapt to new water installations requirements. A scheme

regarding the measurement of noise pollution is almost ready to be put into practice this year. There is an ongoing discussion on the noise caused by helicopters. How are you improving the situation? The helicopters are controlled by the regulations of the prefecture. They implement, for example, the restriction and prohibition of helicopter flights at specific times of the day. The Aérodrome is also a landing place for helicopters. We have made arrangements with the operating company to keep noise pollution to a minimum; this is now about to come to fruitition. There are hardly any complaints about the helicopter traffic, which is about 10 to 15 per cent of all our air traffic. SS/SK-N

www.mctimes.com

MONACO'S AMBITIOUS plans for a new 700 million euro Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace (CHPG) are on hold. Confirmation came at a press conference called by Minister of State Michel Roger who cited three main reasons for the rethink: global economic uncertainty; Monaco's budget deficit; and changes to the French health care coverage. As 60 per cent of patients treated at the CHPG fall under the French system, the reduction in French hospital coverage could drain 30 million euros from CHPG's income. Mr Roger confirmed that a new hospital will be built and will serve 100,000 people in Monaco and the vicinity, but the government intends to take the next six to eight months to carefully examine from 2005 preliminary studies before initialling any concrete advance on the project. Downsizing and new location Two possible cost savings could be made from reducing the 480 beds projected in the original plan to the current level of 403, and the other from sharing research. "We can't remain isolated in a corner and pretend to offer top level medicine if we don't exchange." This exchange is expected to come with teaching hospitals in Nice, Marseille and Toulon. Location is another issue as it seems unlikely the original plan to reconstruct a new hospital on the existing site is viable. Other possibilities are Annonciade 2 once relocation of the Charles II College and Lycée Technique are complete or Testimonio land in the east of Monaco. A new hospital won’t see the light of day now until 2018 or 2020. LB

Difficult days lie ahead Minister of State Michel Roger on deficits, strikes and the Odeon

it and he said that most were agreed that reform was needed to be in place once the deficit hits 40 per cent. Effective dialogue is the key and it was a theme he returned to when questioned about strikes by disgruntled employees of the SBM (Société des bains de mer which runs the Casino, Hôtel de Paris and other landmark sites). He pointed out how a strike on the eve of the Grand Prix was avoided by the government, or rather Stéphane Valeri, Advisor on social affairs and health, getting involved in the negotiations. Valeri is a Monegasque who until recently was preMichel Roger (left) with Bernard Spindler sident of the currently stands at 37 per elected parliament, the Conseil cent. His reply referred to National who defend the "opening up the dialogue interests of Monegasque again" between the parties nationals and in some reconcerned as to how to tackle spects represent an "opposition", and his move into government is viewed as a bridge between the two. Controversial Odeon Tower Mr Roger's predecessor, the late Jean-Paul Proust appeared at times to have a rather prickly relationship with the Conseil National. But the Minister of State has gone out of his way to meet each member personally, and in all areas is putting emphasis on dialogue, the The new hospital will now not look like this as presented in May 2008 need to listen and respect the couple of months into the job and Monaco's new Minister of State Michel Roger showed that he has a good grasp of the challenges ahead. Interviewed by Bernard Spindler, President of the Monaco Press Club and journalist Noëlle Bine-Muller at a breakfast meeting in the Automobile Club, the lawyer talked about the deficit, the controversial Odeon Tower, a re-write of the new hospital (see below) and striking workers. Like most countries, even Monaco has taken a hit with the crisis. The 2010 budget is a tight one (no new jobs in the public sector for example) and a budget deficit that first appeared in 2009 has continued to rise. Monaco has no debts However, as Mr Roger was quick to point out at 1.39 per cent it is far from the 3 per cent of GDP budget deficit figure set by the European Union for its members. He also stressed that Monaco has no debts: "It's about optimising our capacity

to release revenue (…). I have asked a team of young civil servants to study how the State can make savings and their proposals should be ready in July." Another thorny issue is the employed-retired ratio (20,000 retirees today, a number expected to double by 2030) and the growing deficit in the pension fund (CAR - Caisse autonome des retraites) which

Hospital rethink

July 2010

other party, and not to make rash decisions. The controversial Odeon Tower, which at 170 metres (49 stories) high will be the third tallest building on mainland France, has his full backing as one of the driving forces in the economy: "It is the biggest project on the Côte d'Azur and over the next four years will generate around 1,000 jobs." Future extension Concerning the proposed five to eight hectare extension off the Fontvieille district to the west of the Rock, which is being studied, he intimated that there was no hurry and a decision would be made in the next two to three years. The government estimates it needs 350,000 sqm to develop activities, and "that the area we have is enough until 2019." The 700 million euro project to rebuild the Princess Grace general hospital is being rethought since the death of the architect in charge last December (see story left). All in all it was an assured and diplomatic performance from a man who for many residents has appeared like a kindly uncle figure walking behind Prince Albert II. For decades Monaco has been a dynamic force in the region. The challenge is now to get back some of that momentum to continue to grow within the confines of two square kilometres and find some way to look after an expanding, and ageing, population: a difficult task but maybe this is the man to steer the ship at this point. CL

Japan expo THE GRIMALDI Forum’s big summer exhibition entitled Kyoto-Tokyo, des Samouraïs aux Mangas (from the Samurai to the Mangas) opens this month on 14th of July until 12th of September. Over 600 items span the last 900 years of Japan, an invitation to travel from Kyoto to Tokyo on the historic Tokaido Road, and to introduce the dynamic of a correlation between the Samurai world and the universe of the manga. Open 10-8pm (Thursdays until 10pm). Tel: +377 99 99 30 00

Entertainment THE CULTURE-BLENDING Fort Antoine Theatre festival starts on the 12th of July with Hamlet, followed by Molière's Bourgeois Gentilhomme on the 19th, both at 9.30pm at Fort Antoine. Marcel Poudre's street theatre is in the Jardin Exotique on the 22nd at 9pm; the Orto-Da Company's poetic voyage Stones is on the 26th at 8.30pm in Fort Antoine; performers take to the streets on the 31st and 1st of August for a public laughin; the Premier Act Company stages Gabriel Garcia Marquez's Erendira on 2nd August, 9.30pm; the Talipot Dance Theatre is on the 9th, and Shakespeare's Tempest on the 16th at 9:30pm - these last three are in Fort Antoine. All the above have free entry. Meanwhile, the International Organ Festival in St Charles Church continues with JeanCharles Ablitzer, 4th July; Daniel Matrone, 11th; JeanPierre Leguay, 18th; the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic with organist Olivier Vernet, 25th; and Raul Prieto Ramirez, 1st August (all at 5pm). LB

MONACO 10 July 2010

www.mctimes.com

One on one with Julie Walters Winner of the Gold Nymph for best actress in a TV film

ulie Walters is a shape shifter. Over the years she has been, in no particular order: brothel owner, wife of a great train robber, frumpy bigot, mother to both Jane Austin and Joe Orton, a nude calendar girl and Mo Mowlam, the minister who laid the foundation for the Northern Ireland peace accord. It is this latest role in Mo that last month earned Walters a BAFTA and a Monte-Carlo Television Film Festival best actress for a TV film Nymph all in the same week. The British actress admits she hesitated before signing on for the project, simply because of the differences in appearances between herself and Mowlam. But she shaved her head and the professional took over. Walters' portrayal also benefited from the anecdotes of the former minister's driver and bodyguard who became the actress' during the film shoot. "Life is difficult for women in Belfast, but she was universally popular, loved by both sides … she connected with people." Walters puts Dr. Marjorie Mowlam's popularity down to "her sense of humour, her common touch - she was

Julie Walters was in Monaco for the TV Festival last month

never head boy." According to one anecdote the star heard during the filming, the minister once took off her wig in mid negotiations and said, "Aren't there times when all you want is a bloody good scratch." Walters agrees that Mowlam hasn't received the recognition she deserves - she was close to brokering a peace break-through when the Blair government removed her from office - nor does she believe Tony Blair removed her because of her stunning popularity. “In 1997, Tony Blair believed her lies about the seriousness of her cancer and gave her the

Northern Ireland Ministry. But she couldn't have gone on, it was too obvious that she was dying." Walters doesn't often find it difficult to shed a character once she leaves the set: Mo was one of the few exceptions as was her part in the assisted suicide drama A Short Stay in Switzerland. Her most forgettable character was Mary Whitehouse, the woman who took on the BBC's morals and who Walter's played in Filth: "Whitehouse was around in my late teens. We were part of the revolution. She spoiled our fun." The next role Walters will be taking on? "Farmers wife," she says, "for two or three months." Walters and her husband are organic farmers in West Sussex where they raise cattle, sheep, pigs and chickens. The farm also has "an empty hallway nobody goes to" roomy enough to accommodate, in addition to these latest awards, 6 BAFTAs, a Golden Globe, Olivier, International Emmy, a clutch of Critics Circle awards, several press awards and a handful of others that "don't come to mind at the moment." Lois Bolton

A diplomats dinner The JCE’s third English event was a state affair

ining and diplomacy combined last month at the Jeune Chambre Economique’s third Englishlanguage Business Dinner, entitled: Monaco's Image abroad: the Ambassadors' point of view. The event brought young people from the Principality's business community together with Monaco state officials including Franck Biancheri, Government Counsellor for External Relations and International Economic and Financial Affairs, and Sophie Thevenoux, Counsellor of Finance and Economy. The speakers were Claude Giordan, Monaco's ambassador to Germany, Austria, Poland and Russia, and Henri Fissore, who is ambassador to Australia, Japan and Portugal. After a cocktail on the Café de Paris terrace, participants took their seats and between courses the ambassadors gave their speeches. Ambassador Giordan said that one of Monaco’s major problems is that it's a peculiar kind of country that people struggle to define. In the territories where he works, 95 per cent of the image relates to the princely family. The remaining five per cent consists of the Grand Prix, gambling, glamour and the

"usual headaches" that come with being a famous tax haven. “Monaco can be seen as the dark side of the force,” he stated, before adding, "At least here the Austrians are nicer to us than the Germans." On a more serious note, he stressed that this is not a safe foundation to build a future. The only remedy is change:

Ambassador Fissore agreed with his colleague. “Only people who know it better recognise its contribution to culture,” he said. Monaco, he pointed out, is rarely viewed on an economic level even though it offers a good climate for businesses with excellent communication systems, as leaders in science

From left to right: the RT’s Petra Benzing, Claude Giordan, JCI president Kevin Hin, Henri Fissore and RT editor, Hannah Marshall on the terrace

Monaco needs to accept that it has to do so and quickly. He also believes they should highlight positive qualities, such as the world class culture, its outstanding record on environmental policy and the fact government and private sectors work hand-in-hand. Although he learnt German “as a courtesy”, he says Monaco must speak clearly in the common language: English. On the image of Monaco

and new technology, with an impressive health system and with efficient administration. He believes one of the keys to improving Monaco’s image is to create better publicity about these things and to highlight the impressive work of Prince Albert. “Foreign residents are,” he concluded, “the best ambassadors for Monaco abroad, because their words are the most credible in their own countries.” HM

MONACO www.mctimes.com

New club for foreign residents

Eric Mathon REALIS

Prince Albert II & Minister of State Michel Roger are given the CREM tour

A SMART new club run by Monegasques for residents "who wish to integrate and participate in the social, business, cultural and sporting life” officially opened last month with the full force of Monaco's elite behind it. CREM (Club des résidents étrangers de Monaco) like its acronym has pedigree. Prince Albert II and Minister of State Michel Roger cut the ribbon to the premises which are at the foot of the Mirabeau building. Owners the Barclay brothers are not charging rent, while builders (Pastor) who converted it into two spacious lounges and a bar gave their services free. As did Lady Tina Green (wife of retail billionaire Sir Philip Green) for the contemporary yet wonderfully comfortable interior complete with games tables (cards, backgammon etc), billiards, piano, library and a large flat screen TV. The brain child of Louisette Levy-Soussan Azzoaglio (long-time personal assistant to Princess Grace) CREM offers a chance for people to get under the social skin in Monaco. Cocktail evenings, monthly talks on "life in Monaco", private visits to museums and exhibitions and a programme of workshops (cookery, wine tasting, photography, etc.) are on offer. Individual membership costs: 1,000 euros joining fee then 500 euros a year (750 euros for a couple) and for companies the price is 3,000 euros joining fee and 1,500 euros a year CL

TV goes digital THERE ARE times when it pays to be small and wealthy. For while the user-friendly interactive functions and enhanced quality of digital TV unroll unsteadily across other nations, in Monaco it was done in a single day in June. It has taken five years and an investment of 10 million euros to reach this point, but now all residents in Monaco have access to digital TV and a minimum service of 18 free channels (compared to the previous six). The project has paved the way for a multitasking TVBox (160 GB - 80 hours of recording) for the same price per month as the current one, but with access to Canal+ and 21 high definition channels. A host of services include "live control" so you can pause a programme, get a cup of coffee and resume watching it later in your own time zone. There is also access to 3,000 pay-to-view films that are easy to download. TVs bought after 1st March 2008 will already be equipped with a DTT decoder so the user just needs to tune the TV to the new channels. Those with older sets can buy a suitable decoder or rent the new TVBox. CL

Fairytale come true I The man who’s brought an iconic museum to life

t's time to meet the man who's made the Oceanographic Museum's 100th year its most sensational. No, not the controversial artist currently exhibiting his works in the Principality, but rather Pieter Bogaardt, the person who made miracles happen by getting Damien Hirst to Monaco in the first place. Sitting on a sofa in the Metropole hotel, the relaxed and jovial Bogaardt is a million miles from the reputably temperamental and difficult British artist. "Yes he's a superstar and he behaves like one," Bogaardt nods, "but when you see him with his sons - playing with them, always asking where they are you know he's a good guy." The story of how Bogaardt and Hirst came together to work on this unique project for the museum's anniversary is something of a fairytale, with the former in the role of fairy godfather. A first on two counts "I've never worked for a museum before," Bogaardt begins. In real estate for most of his life, the Dutch-born businessman first came to the Principality as a child and has been a resident since 1977. He describes himself as a modest art collector, building a small collection has been his hobby for the last 30-years. So how did he find himself in charge of the biggest exhibition at the biggest museum in Monaco? In his own words, "the story is quite simple. My wife and I were having dinner with my friend Robert Calcagno and his wife. Robert had just been appointed Director of the Oceanographic Museum and, on accepting the position, he had been given a mission by Prince Albert and by the

not exchanged names and it was only after Bogaardt had left the party that he realised to whom he’d been speaking. Of course, this loose link was not enough to entice Hirst to Monaco. Fortunately, our fairy godfather had the number of Jay Joplin, Director and owner of the White Cube gallery, in his little black book. Joplin took the proposition to Hirst who immediately liked the idea. The artist came to the Principality in July and spent an hour in the museum. He was enthusiastic, as were Calcagno and the Prince. The project officially started in September, marked by a meeting in London between the artist, the museum director and his friend. They had just six months to pull together an exhiPieter Bogaardt (l) with Damien Hirst, who he bition that would normally have taken brought to the Oceanographic Museum two years. Pieter Bogaardt stresses wife reminded her husband he’d made a promise to his that even though Hirst has a big team working with him, it’s friend that he had to keep. He took a trip to the not true that he doesn’t museum to think about how physically produce the art he could fulfill his obligation. himself: in fact he’s very hands He says it was obvious that on and a complete perthis old building displaying fectionist. “I agree that not all the ancient treasures needed something very contem- pieces are to everyone’s taste, porary: “anything too static some of them are not to mine, just wouldn’t have worked.” yet I believe the show is a When considering the artists piece of art by itself, a masterwho would be up to the task, piece.” So with Cornucopia a massive he was briefly waylaid by Jeff Koons before hitting on Hirst. success, can we expect more “I thought of the shark and expos from Bogaardt in the future? “I’m not going after it,” that clinched it,” he explains. The artist and art collector he smiles, “but if Robert or the had met in London two years Prince ask me I won’t say no - I earlier. They had spoken but could never refuse them!” HM Board of Directors: to make the place feel alive again. He was three weeks into the job when we met and he said, 'Next year we will celebrate our centenary and Pieter you are going to find me something for it that's really special.' Well, I thought it was a joke so I said OK." Calcagno, however, was being serious and the next day Bogaardt’s

Michel Dagnino

12 July 2010

EVENTS July 2010 13

01 July Thurs

05 Mon

Theatre “Les nuits de théâtre”. At Théâtre de Verdure. Until 03/07. Tel. 08 92 70 74 07

Concert “Musiques au Coeur”. The Barber of Seville by Rossini. Regional orchestra of Cannes. At Villa Eilenroc, Cap d'Antibes. 8.30pm. Until 07/07. Tel. 04 97 23 11 11 Antibes (H1)

Nice (I2)

Scrabble festival 2nd “Festival de Scrabble”. At Salle Rovery. Until 04/07. Tel. 04 93 23 02 66 Auron (G1) Polo tournament “International Polo Cup Saint-Tropez”. At Table du Polo. Until 11/07. Tickets: 14 euros. Tel. 04 94 55 22 12 Gassin (D1) Jazz concert Meddy Gerville. At La Note Bleue. 6.30pm. Until 03/07. Tel. +377 93 50 05 02 Monaco (L2)

02 Fri

Open air concert “Monaco Live”. ZZ Top and Iggy Pop & the Stooges. In front of the palace. 8pm. Tel. +377 97 97 23 80 Monaco (L2)

06 Tue Concerts “Crazy Week”. Tom Frager & Gwayav. At Théâtre de Verdure. 9pm. Also on 07/07 at 9pm, 08/07 and 09/07 at 8pm, 10/07 at 8.30pm with other guests. Tickets: 17-35 euros. Tel. 04 97 13 37 55 Nice (I2)

Accordion concert “Echappée belle Johanna Piraino". Ruth Levy Benseft. At Théâtre de la Semeuse. 8.30pm. Tel. 04 93 92 85 08 Nice (I2)

Sport and nature day "Journée Bienvenue en France". At Esplanade des Goelands. 3pm. Tel. 04 93 31 31 21 Saint-Laurent-du-Var (I1)

Street festival “Fête de l'abeille”. Activities, markets. In town centre. 7pm. Also on 03/07 at 10am. Free entry. Tel. 04 93 78 02 33 Cap d’Ail (L2)

07 Wed

Salsa festival At the Palais des Festivals. 5.30pm. Also on 03/07 and 04/07 at 10am. Tickets: 70-159 euros. Tel. 04 92 98 62 77 Cannes (G2)

03 Sat Fisherman's night "Fête des Pêcheurs". At Plage de la Pesquière. 10pm. Free entry. Tel. 04 94 97 82 66 Saint-Tropez (D2)

Beach Volleyball “Nice Beach Volley Open 2010”. At Plage des Ponchettes, Quai des Etats-Unis. Free admission. Tel. 04 97 13 37 70 Nice (I2)

Blues concert Janysett McPherson Trio. At La Note Bleue. 6.30pm. Until 09/07. Tel. +377 93 50 05 02 Monaco (L2) Classical concert "Les Moments de Clair Val". Toulon Philharmonic Orchestra plays Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. At Auditorium du Parc St Vincent. 9pm. Tickets: 10 euros. Tel. 04 94 01 40 33 Carqueiranne (C2)

08 Thurs Guitar concert "Les 10 ans du Festival Les Nuits Guitares". Rock, blues, jazz, funk, reggae and ska. At Jardin de l’Olivier. 8.30pm. Until 10/07. Tickets: 20-37 euros. Children -7 years free. Tel. 04 93 76 47 00

Music festival “Sporting Summer Festival Monte-Carlo”. Stevie Wonder. 8pm. Tickets: 220 euros (incl. dinner). Until 28/08 with different artists every night: Elton John, Tom Jones, Eros Ramazotti, Mark Knopfler, Norah Jones among others. Tickets: 140-1000 euros incl. dinner. Tel. +377 98 06 36 36 Monaco (L2)

Nice (I2)

04 Sun Choir festival “15ème Festival Choral International en Provence”. Choirs from 11 countries give concerts in 60 communities in the Provence. 9pm. Until 31/07. Tel. 04 94 78 63 84 La Garde-Freinet (D1) Museum day Inauguration of "Cotignac Autrefois et Aujourd'hui" museum. At Cours Gambetta. 10.30am. Tel. 04 94 04 61 87 Cotignac (C1) Flea market “Brocante videgrenier”. At the Grand pré. From 6am to 7pm. Tel. 04 93 60 55 63 Cabris (G1)

Gregorian concert “Aux sources du chant sacré". Presented by Chantres du Thoronet. At Abbaye du Thoronet. 8pm. Tickets: 12/18 euros. Tel. 04 94 60 10 94 Le Thoronet (D1)

Golf Outing Organised by the Int. Club. At La Provencal Golf Club. 10am. Tel. 04 93 72 11 89 Valbonne - Sophia-Antipolis (H1)

09 Fri Prom’party On Promenade des Anglais. 9.30pm. Tel. 08 92 70 74 07 Nice (I2) Music festival “Popanalia 40 ans après”. In the garden of the Musée national Fernand Léger. 7pm. Tickets: 25-35 euros, children -10 years free. Tel. 04 93 65 78 00 Biot (I1)

La Napoule (G2)

Concert “Les concerts du Cloître”. At Cloître du Monastère de Cimiez. Until 16/07. Tel. 08 00 95 08 50 Nice (I2)

Polo tournament “Open de Gassin”. At La Table du Polo. 4pm. Until 25/07. Tickets: 14 euros. Tel. 04 94 55 22 12

Acoustic concert Dona Flor. Acoustics, bossa nova, jazz, samba. At La Note Bleue. 6.30pm. Also 14/07. Tel. +377 93 50 05 02 Monaco (L2) Acrobatics "Funambules et Cracheurs de Feu". Circus and acrobatics performances. At the square in front of the town hall. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 31 31 21 Saint-Laurent-du-Var (M3)

11 Sun World Cup Final Dinner Watch the Final live over a South African prawn dinner. At Jimmy’s Killer Prawns. 7pm. Tickets: 26 euros incl. wine. Tel. 04 93 27 11 89 Valbonne (G1) Street festival “Fête du Pian”. In the city centre. 10am. Free admission. Tel. 04 92 41 76 76 Menton (M2)

Petanque competition 3pm. Tel. 04 93 58 66 54 Vence (I1)

Exhibition: Kyoto-Tokyo, des Samouraïs aux Mangas 4th July to 12th September A major exhibition explores the correlation between the Samurai and the universe of the mangas, alongside a journey over nine centuries from Kyoto to Tokyo on the historic Tokaido Road.

Samba concert Catia Werneck. At La Note Bleue. 6.30pm. Until 17/07. Tel. +377 93 50 05 02 Monaco (L2)

Philharmonic concert Nice Philharmonic Orchestra. At Parvis de l'église NotreDame d'Espérance. 9.15pm. Tickets: 10-36 euros. Tel. 04 92 99 33 83 Cannes (G2)

Event: Luxuria 23rd to 25th July A mystery is being unveiled as the clock ticks down to the Luxuria experience. The first edition is intended to be an exclusive rendezvous for those who create luxury and those who live it. More at www.luxuria-events.com/

GRIMALDI FORUM 10, Avenue Princesse Grace MC 98 000 Monaco Info and Reservations: Tel. (+377) 99 99 30 00 ticket@grimaldiforum.mc www.grimaldiforum.com

St-Cézaire-sur-Siagne (G1)

12 Mon Reggae festival The Original Wailers, Julian Marley, Danakil & guests. At La Pinède, 10 bd Ardisson. 7pm. Tickets: 25 euros. Tel. 04 97 23 11 13

16 Fri

Bastille Day “Fête nationale”. Prom’party and fireworks. At the Promenade des Anglais. 9.30pm. Tel. 08 92 70 74 07 Nice (I2)

Piano concert Child prodigy Andrea Molteni. At Jardin de la Paix (the Médiathèque if it rains). 9pm. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 76 08 90

Antibes (H1)

Circus "Cirque Piédon". At the Colmiane. At Soun dal Pra à St Dalmas. 6pm. Tel. 04 93 23 25 90 La Colmiane (I1) Accordion festival “Festival d'Accordéon”. Trio Marcel Loeffler, Jazz Manouche. At the church square. Tel. 04 93 24 73 83 Saint-Jeannet (I1) Comedy Club Stand-up show in English with international artists. At Morrison’s, rue Teisseire. 8pm. Also on 13/07 in Antibes at 7.30pm and 10pm, 14/07 in Nice at 8pm, 15/07 in Monaco at 8pm. Tickets: 15-20 euros. Tel. 06 71 49 82 02 Cannes (G2)

Nice (I2)

Jazz festival "Jazz à Juan". At the Pinède Gould. 8.30pm. Until 25/07. Tickets: 21.50-74 euros. Tel. 04 97 23 11 19 Juan-les-Pins (H2)

International Fireworks festival "Festival International de la Pyrotechnie". At the Palais des Festivals. Also on 14/07, 21/07, 29/07, 07/08, 15/08, 24/08. Free admission. Tel. 04 92 99 33 83 Cannes (G2) Dinner Cruise Organised by the Int. Club on the days of the Cannes Firework Festival. At Marina Baie des Anges. 4pm. Also on 21/07 and 29/07. Tel. 04 93 72 11 89

Ballet “Marco Polo”. By Luciano Cannito. At Théâtre de Verdure. 9.30pm. Also on 17/07. Tel. 04 92 17 40 40 Nice (I2) Choir concert La Maîtrise de la Cathédrale St Etienne de Toulouse. At the Notre Dame de l'Assomption. 8.30pm. Free admission. Tel. 05 61 99 90 20 Nice (I2)

17 Sat Night of Dreams "Nuit de Rêve". Traditional parade with historical costumes and vehicles, exhibitions and musical entertainment in the streets. Many shops and restaurants open until 1am. At the city centre. Tel. 04 94 43 67 41 La Garde-Freinet (D1)

Jazz Festival At Parc des Arènes Cimiez. 6pm. Until 24/07. Tickets: 9-51 euros. Tel. 04 92 14 46 49 Nice (I2)

Pop concert Pink. At Palais Nikaia. 8.30pm. Tickets: 4561.50 euros. Tel. 04 91 60 61 62

Classical music festival At the Théâtre de Verdure. 9pm. Until 21/07. Tickets: 20-65 euros. Tel. 04 98 12 64 00

Big music festival "Aux voix du Gaou 2010". At the Ile du Gaou. 7.30pm. Famous artists: Christophe Mae, Pony Pony Run Run and Bob Sinclair among others. Until 29/07. Tickets: 29.50-44 euros. Tel. 08 92 68 36 22

Nice (I2)

Ramatuelle (D2)

Six-Fours-les-Plages (B2)

13 Tue

Villeneuve-Loubet (I1)

15 Thurs

Medieval music festival "20e Rencontres Internationales de Musique Médiévale". At the Abbay du Thoronet. 9pm. Until 25/07. Tickets: 16-20 euros. Tel. 04 94 60 74 51 Le Thoronet (C1)

19 Mon Concert “Les Soirées au château”. Quatuor Monoïkos, dancer, cellist and comedian. At Parvis Rainier III, Château. Also on 20/07. Tel. 04 93 35 62 87 Roquebrune-Cap-Martin (L2)

Music and culture “Nuits Musicales & Culturelles du Château”. At Château. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 91 00 16 Tourrette-Levens (I1)

14 Wed

Art & Antiques Fair “Salon Art et Antiquités”. Furniture and other antiques from 16th-20th century. At Palais de la Méditerranée. 10am8pm. Until 18/07. Tickets: 6 euros, children -14 years free. Tel. 06 03 19 64 23

Antiquity market In Haut-deCagnes. Free Admission. Tel. 04 92 02 85 05 Cagnes-sur-Mer (I1)

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (K2)

Flea market In the streets of the village. Tel. 04 93 60 84 30

18 Sun

Gassin (D1)

10 Sat

Beaulieu-sur-Mer (K2)

International piano festival "Pianestival”. At Auditorium P. Kosma. 3pm/8pm. Until 09/07, starting 2pm-9pm depending on the day. Tel. 04 92 14 46 49

Fireworks and DJ At Plage du Château. Free admission. Tel. 04 92 97 99 27

Movie night “Cinétoiles”. At Théâtre de Verdure. 9pm. Until 16/08. Tel. 04 97 13 37 55 Nice (I2)

20 Tue Concert The regional orchestra of Cannes. At the Amphitheatre At 9pm. Tel. 04 93 78 02 33 Cap d'Ail (L2)

Classical music “Les Etoiles des Saisons Russes du XXIème siècle”. Ballet, opera, music concert. At Grand auditorium Lumière. 9pm. Tickets: 28-36 euros. Tel. 04 92 99 33 83 Cannes (G2) Music festival “Festival Les Nuits du Château de la Moutte”. At Château de la Moutte. 9pm. Until 13/08. Tickets: 20-40 euros. Tel. 04 94 96 96 94 Saint-Tropez (D2)

Gospel concert Musique Sacrée. Les Choeurs d'Enfants de Saint-Christophe. At Chapelle des Pénitents Noirs. 9pm. Free admission. Tel. 04 92 41 76 76 Menton (M2)

21 Wed Chamber music festival "Les Musicales es Baous". Quatuor Modigliani and François Salque play Mendelssohn and Schubert. At L'église colégiale. 8.30pm. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 24 48 02 Saint-Paul-de-Vence (I1)

EVENTS 14

July 2010

Music festival “Festival des Portes du Mercantour”.L. Zoppis Duo. Blues/folk. At Place centrale. 6pm. Tel. 04 93 23 24 25 Villeneuve-d'Entraunes (G1)

Concert “Un soir chez Renoir”. In the gardens of the Musée Renoir. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 20 61 64 Cagnes-sur-Mer (I1)

22 Thurs Music and Poetry "Soirée Musique et Poésie". Comedian Marie-Christine Barrault and Dimitris Saroglou on piano. At Parc du Château des Terras-ses. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 78 02 33 Cap d'Ail (L2) Athletics competition “Meeting Herculis Monaco”. 202 athletes from 46 countries. At Stade Louis II. 7.30pm. Tel. +377 92 05 68 07 Monaco (L2) Night walk with fireworks At Tête de Chien. Tel. 04 93 41 21 15 La Turbie (L1)

Classical concert Nice Philharmonic orchestra. Rossini, Milhauld, Mozart. At Théâtre du Tivoli. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 45 34 27

Ball “Bal des la Sainte-Anne”. In the village. 8pm. Tel. 04 93 23 15 15 Isola (I1)

Abbaye du Thoronet. 8.30pm. Tickets: 12-18 Euro. Tel. 04 94 60 10 94 Le Thoronet (D1)

Cricket Match “Ted Dexter

Music festival “61ème Festival de Musique de Menton”. Percussion and brass. Solists of Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. Händel, Rossini, Strauss, Gervaise. At Esplanade Francis Palméro. 9.30pm. Until 16/08. Tel. 04 92 41 76 76

Trophy Cricket Match”. Organised by the Int. Club. With picnic buffet. At the Entre-casteaux Cricket Club. Tel. 04 93 27 11 89 Entrecasteaux(E1)

26 Mon Piano recital Christophe Alvarez. At Cour du musée de la Castre. 7pm. Tickets: 10 euros, children -10 years free. Tel. 04 92 99 33 83 Cannes (I1)

Petanque competition “Masters de Pétanque”. At Forum J. Médecin, Place Masséna. 2.30pm. Tel. 04 97 13 37 70 Nice (I2)

Prom’party At Promenade des Anglais. 9.30pm. Tel. 08 92 70 74 07 Nice (I2) Chamber music festival "Les Musicales des Baous". Bruch, Kodaly, Mozart and Verdi. At the Place de l'église. 8.30pm. Also on 24/07. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 24 48 02 St. Jeannet (C1)

24 Sat Traditional festival “Fête du Malonat”. At rue du Malonat, Old Town. 7pm. Also on 25/07 at 10am. Tel. 04 97 13 37 70 Nice (I2)

Petanque competition “Europétanque”. At Forum J. Médecin, Place Masséna. 8.30am. Until 26/07. Tel. 04 97 13 37 70

Concert Claude Lefebvre, flute and Prisca Benoît, piano play Poulenc, Schubert, Chopin, Debussy. At Anglican Church. 8.30pm. Tel. 08 00 95 08 50 Beaulieu-sur-Mer (K2)

Sailing for the disabled At Plage Marquet. Also on 31/07. Tel. 04 93 78 96 40 Country music festival At Parc des Canebiers. 7pm. Also on 31/07 at 6pm. Tickets: 12-30 euros, children -12 years free. Tel. 04 93 2 61 64

Religious festival At Chapelle Sainte-Anne. 6pm. Tel. 04 93 24 09 25 Vence (I1)

27 Tue Concert Marc Lavoine. At Théâtre de la mer Jean Marais. 9.30pm. Tel. 04 93 63 82 58. Golfe-Juan (H1)

Theatre and dance festival “Festival de théâtre & danse”. At Parvis Rainier III. 9.30pm. Tel. 04 93 35 62 87

31 Sat Dance show “Tango forte”. At Port de Plaisance. 9.30pm. Free Admission. Tel. 04 93 01 02 21 Beaulieu-sur-Mer (K2)

Corn and lavender festival “Fête du Blé et de la Lavande”. Exhibitions, musique, dance, food. At Cercle de l'Union Pellasque. 10am. Also on 01/08. Tel. 04 93 91 71 71 Peille (L1)

Roquebrune-Cap Martin (L2)

Sporting event for kids “La Caravane du Sport 2010”. Activities and animations by professional instructors. Basketball, American foot-ball, volleyball, karate, fencing, tennis, gymnastics table tennis, trampoline, track and field. At Plage des Sablettes. 10am12pm/ 1.30pm-4.30pm. Also on 28/07. Tel. 06 04 92 47 62 62

Summer Party “We are the world!”. Organised by the Int. Club. At a pool terrace and garden. At 6.30pm. Tel. 04 93 27 11 89 Les Adrets (G1)

Concert “Les Géants de la Chanson Francaise”. At SainteThècle. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 79 91 04 Peillon (L1)

Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey (G1)

03 Tue

ANTIBES (H1)

Jazz concert Ciné Jazz Quartet. At Place centrale. 5pm. Valberg (H1)

Until 15/10 Paintings and sculptures “L'âme des mots 1998-2009”. By the Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. At Musée Picasso. 10am-6pm. Closed on Mondays. Tel. 04 92 90 54 26

04 Wed Circus Cirque Arlette Gruss celebrates 25th anniversary. At Espace de la Vignasse, Pré des arts. 9pm. Until 17/08. Tel. 08 25 82 56 60

Fireworks and DJ At Plage de Robinson. Free admission. Tel. 04 92 97 99 27 La Napoule (G2)

Concert “Cuban Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club & Omara Portuondo”. At the Théâtre de la Mer. 8.30pm. Tickets: 25-32 euros. Tel. 04 93 63 73 12.

29 Thur Gregorian concert “Aux sources du chant sacré". Chantres du Thoronet. At

BARGEMON (D1)

Open air cabaret “Cabaret sous les étoiles”. International artists. At Chapiteau. 9pm. Until 08/08 in different towns. Tel. 08 05 56 65 60 Clans (I1)

Until 14/08 Outside exhibition “Joie de vivre”. By the German sculptor and painter Stefan Szczesnys. In the garden of the Beddington Fine Art Gallery. From Wednesday to Saturday. 10am-12pm/4pm-7pm. Tel. 04 94 76 64 06

05 Thur

BIOT (I1)

Polynesian theatre week At Théâtre de Verdure and Jardin Albert 1er. Until 08/08. Tel. 04 97 13 37 70

Until 30/09 Painted ceramics By Gilbert Portanier. At Musée d'Histoire et de Céramique Biotoises. From Wednesday to Sunday. Tel. 04 93 65 54 54

Valbonne - Sophia-Antipolis (H1)

Nice (I2)

06 Fri Prom’party On Promenade des Anglais. 9.30pm. Also on 15/08, 20/08 and 28/08. Tel. 08 92 70 74 07 Nice (I2) Gospel night At Théâtre de la Mer. 9pm. Tickets: 23-28 euros. Tel. 04 93 63 82 58

Nice (I2)

Concert “Los Calchakis”. Music from Latin America. At Palais des Festivals. 9.15pm. Tickets: 10-32 euros. Tel. 04 92 99 33 83 Cannes (G2)

presents André Villers’ photographs in light to his 80th anniversary. At Villa Aurélienne. 3pm to 7pm, closed on Tuesdays. Free admission. Tel. 04 94 51 83 83 GRASSE (H1)

Club night “Unighted by Cathy Guetta”. At Stade Charles Hermann. 10pm. http://www.unighted.fr/

28 Wed

AIX-EN-PROVENCE (A1)

Piano concert United Nation Piano Quartet. At Parvis de l'église SaintePhilomène. 9pm. Tel. 04 93 46 03 47 Le Cannet (I1)

07 Sat

Menton (M2)

Ongoing Events and Exhibitions Until 30/07 Photographs “Eau/Wasser”. By Tilman Rösch, Dieter Löch and Alain Brunet. At Musée des Tapisseries. 10am-6pm, Closed on Tuesdays. Tel. 04 42 23 09 91

Vallauris - Golfe-Juan (H2)

CANNES (G2)

Until 26/10 Marble sculptures “Rabarama sur la Croisette”. By the Italian artist Rabarama. On the Croisette. Tel. 04 97 06 44 90 Until 25/08 8th International Fashion Photography Festival Monumental fashion pictures on the Croisette, at the Palm Beach Casino and in the Porto Canto rose garden. Tel. 04 93 99 19 77

Until 19/09 Citrus fruits exhibition “Zestes de soleil, un voyage au pays des Hespérides". At Musée international de la parfumerie. Saturdays 10am-7pm/9pm. Tel. 04 97 05 58 00 Until 08/07 Marble sculptures 3rd International Symposium. At Villa-Musée Fragonard. 10am-7pm. www.museesdegrasse.com Until 30/09 Photographs “Australia”. Exhibition of photographs of Australia by Jean Charbonneau and Dong Wei. At Cathédrale d'Images, route de Maillane. 10am-6pm. Admission: 3-7.50 euros. Tel. 04 90 54 38 65 HAUT-DE-CAGNES (I1)

Until 31/10 Israeli jewellery “Bijoux d’Israel”. At Espace Solidor, Place du Château. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 73 14 42 LA BRIGUE (M1)

From 03/07 to 16/07 Paintings By Gilbert Boillot. At La Petite Galerie du Musée, Maison du Patrimoine. 10am12pm/2pm-6pm, closed on Tuesdays. Admission: 1.503 euros. Tel. 04 93 79 09 34 MARSEILLE (A1)

Funk concert with snacks “Apéro concert”. Dear James. At Jardin de Princesse Grace. 6pm. Tel. 04 93 91 71 71

01 August Sun International tango festival “2e Côte d’Azur Tango Festival International”. At Forum Jacques Médecin. Until 08/08. Free admission. Tel. 06 21 05 93 07 Nice (I2) French songs “Chansons françaises” with Bernard Persia. By the sea. 6.30pm. Tel. 04 93 41 26 00 Eze-sur-Mer (K2)

Golfe-Juan (H1)

25 Sun

Open air cinema At Ecole Emile Félix. 9.45pm. Tel. 04 93 42 78 00

Cagnes-sur-Mer (I1)

Nice (I2)

Music festival “WEM14”. Concerts, plays, art. At Salle Honoré Daumier. 9pm. Until 31/07. Tickets 15-20 euros. Tel. 04 94 28 41 06 Carnoules (C1)

30 Fri Cap d'Ail (L2)

Le Cannet (I1)

23 Fri

Menton (M2)

02 Mon

Firework festival “Son et lumière”. At Baie de Juan-lesPins. 10pm. Also on 09/08, 15/08 and 24/08. Tel. 04 97 23 11 11 Antibes (H1)

Peille (L1)

08 Sun Rock concert BB Blues. On the waterfront. 6pm. Tel. 04 93 41 26 00. Eze-sur-Mer (K2)

09 Mon Reggae Concert “Reggae Groundation”. At Théâtre de Verdure. 9pm. Tel. 04 97 13 37 55 Nice (I2)

10 Tue Opera “Deux Grands Concertos”. Orchestra Cappel-la Instropolitana. At Cloitre de Cimiez. 9pm. Tickets: 30 euros. Nice (I2)

Until 10/10 Drawings and sculptures “Rien n'appartient à rien”. By Roberto Barni. At Centre d'Art La Malmaison. Tel. 04 97 06 44 90 From 03/07 to 26/09 Pottery “Les dernières créations”. By Peter Thumm. At Villa Domergue. Tel. 04 97 06 44 90

Until 27/11 Mediaeval exhibition “Marseille au Moyen Age, la ville oubliée”. Exhibition about the medieval Marseille. At Archives municipales. Tuesday to Friday 9am-12pm/1pm5pm, Saturday 2pm-6pm. Free admission. Tel. 04 91 55 33 75 MONACO (L2)

From 03/07 to 29/08 Pottery and photographs “Le privilège de l'invention”. By Marc Piano. At Espace Miramar. Tel. 04 97 06 44 90

Until 30/09 Exhibition "Cornucopia". By Damien Hirst. At Musée Océanographique. 9.30am7pm. Admission: 13 euros. Tel. +377 93 15 36 00

FRÉJUS (F2)

Until 31/07 Photographs «Villers 80: Emulsions». The exhibition

Until 16/01/2011 Art exhibition “Looking up...”. By Yinka Shonibare.

EVENTS July 2010

At Nouveau Musée National in Monaco, Villa Sauber. 11am-7pm, from 14/07 to 12/09 until 10pm. Guided tours daily at 2.40pm and 4.30pm. Tel. +337 98 98 19 62

SAINT LAURENT DU VAR (I2)

Until 26/07 Exhibition By Claudio Gotti. At Espace Stéphane Grappelli. 1.30pm-5.30pm. Tel. 04 92 12 40 64 SANARY-SUR-MER (B1)

NICE (I2)

Until 13/09 Photographs “Sarasvati déesse des arts” by Olivier Remualdo. The French artist’s photos of India. At Musée des Arts Asiatiques. 10am-6pm, closed on Tuesdays. Tel. 04 92 29 37 00 Until 28/11 Photographs “Travels in the Mediterranean”. Works of the Chinese artist Cai Guo Qiang. At MAMAC, Promenade des Arts. 10am-6pm, closed on Mondays. Free admission. Guided tours every Wednesday at 3pm. Tel. 04 97 13 42 01 Until 27/09 Exhibition Paintings and drawings about Russian Lydia Delectorskaya. At Musée Matisse. Wednesday to Monday, 10am-6pm. Admission: 2.50-5 euros. Tel. 04 93 81 08 08 Until 30/07 Art exhibition “L’Abstrait”. By Olivier Menu. At Centre d’Affaires at the Airport Nice Côte d’Azur. Monday to Friday 8am-7pm. Tel. 08 20 42 33 33

Until 22/07 Paintings “Heinz Renzland”. At Galerie Barthélémy de Don. 10am-12pm/ 2.30pm-6.30pm. Tel. 04 94 88 34 66 SEILLANS (E1)

From 05/07 to 31/10 Exhibition “Happy Birthday Dorothea Tanning”. Exhibition in the light of the 100th anniversary of Max Ernst’s wife. Lithographs, photographs and contemporary witness reports. At Maison Waldberg, Place du Thouron. 2.30pm-6pm. Tel. 04 94 76 85 91 ST.-PAUL-DE-VENCE (I2)

Until 30/09 Photogprahs “Stone alone in Saint-Paul”. By exRolling Stone Bill Wyman. At Musée de Saint-Paul. 10am-7pm. Also at Espace André Verdet, 2pm-7pm. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 32 86 95 From 02/07 to 07/08 Exposition “Bordercross”. By Cécile Bart, François Morellet, Olivier Mosset and Christian RobertTissot. At Galerie Cathérine Issert. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 32 96 92

Until 31/10 Exposition Brigitte Bardot. At Espace Rendez-Vous des Lices. 11am-8pm. Admission: 8-11 euros. Tel. 04 94 97 45 21 Until 30/09 Sculpture exhibition “Les arbres brûlés” by Philippe Pastor. Sculptures made from burned tree trunks. At the Polo Club, route du Bourrian. Tel. 04 94 55 22 12

Free tickets to events on the Côte? and that’s just for starters with your VIP subscription...

From 16/07 to 30/07 Photographs By François Marechal. At Lavoir Vasserot. Free admission. Tel. 04 94 97 54 37 VALLAURIS (H1)

Until 20/09 Photograph and film "Zineb Sedira". Autobiographical documents showing the artist's strong bond to Algeria. At Musée National Pablo Picasso, La Guerre et la Paix. 10am12pm and 2pm-5pm, closed on Tuesdays. Tel. 04 93 64 71 83 VENCE (I1)

Until 18/12 Art exhibition “1960-2010. Cinquante ans de l'Ecole de Nice”, fifty years of the famous art movement.100 works by Yves Klein, César, Claude Gilli and other artists. At Musée Rétif, Avenue Rhin et Danube. 10am-6pm, closed on Mondays. Admission: 5-7 euros. Tel 04 93 58 44 20

Events on the Italian Riviera

ROURE (H1)

Until 31/10 Sculptures exhibition Four monumental and interesting sculptures inspired from mythological and classical subjects by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. In collaboration with Marlborough gallery of Monaco. Tel. +377 92 16 61 16 SAINT JEAN CAP FERRAT (K2)

From 02/07to 11/07 Paintings “Du RéEL Au VirtuEL”. By Alain Demarte and Patrick Gibelli. At Port de Plaisance, Espace Neptune. 10am-8pm. Free admission. Tel. 04 93 76 08 90

SAINT-TROPEZ (D2)

ALASSIO (Q2)

Until 31/10 Butterfly exhibition "Giant Birdwings". Butterfly collection from Papua New Guinea. At Maison des Papillons. 10am-12pm/3pm-7pm, closed on Tuesdays. Admission: 2.50-3 euros. Tel. 04 94 97 63 45

28/07 Guided walking tour through the town. Following the footsteps of the English visitors in the 19th century. Meeting at the city hall. 5pm.

From 03/07 to 18/10 Exhibition “Modigliani”. Drawings and portraits of famous Italian painter and sculptor Amadeo Modigliani. At Musée de l'Annonciade. 10am-12pm/2pm-6pm. Admission: 5 euros. Tel. 04 94 17 84 10

Caterina and Via Petrarca. 8am-8pm. Also on 01/08.

At the sports ground. 7pm. Also on 17/07 and 22/07.

dancing. At Giardino Comunale. 7.30pm.

DOLCEDO (O2) 11/07

01/08 Concert “Musica nel Castello”. At Doria castle. 9pm. Also on 04/08 and 08/08.

SAN BARTOLOMEO (O2)

Crafts and flea market At Piazza Padre Mauro. 9am-5pm. Tel. 01 83 28 00 04

ANDORA (Q2)

25/07 Fireworks by the sea At Passeggiata levante. 10.30pm. BORGIO VERREZZI (R2)

08/07 Theatre festival “44. Festival Teatrale”. At Piazza Sant’Agostino. 9.30pm. Over several days until 10/08. www.festivalverezzi.it CARAVONICA (P1)

18/07 Classic cars “Moto e Auto d’Epoca”. Meeting and tours through the valleys of Impero and Arroscia. At Piazza. 9am.

LAIGUEGLIA (R2) GENOA (R1)

08/07 Concert Sinead O’Connor. At Porto Antico, Arena del Mare. 9pm.

23/07 Play “Sbarco dei Saraceni”. At Piazza Bastione, Old Town. 10pm. PERINALDO (M2)

16/07 Guitar festival At Porto Antico, Arena del Mare. 9pm. Also on 20/07, 26/07 and 28/07.

04/08 Chamber music concert “Al lume delle stelle”. At San Benedetto oratorio. 9pm.

FINALE LIGURE (R2)

PIGNA (N1)

23/07 Street festival “Palio degli Arceri”. Historical parade and archery competition. At Piazza V. Emanuele II. 9.30pm.

14/07 Chamber music festival “47. Festival Internazionale du Musica da Camera”. At San Michele church. 9pm. Also on 17/07 in Apricale and Cervo.

ISOLABONA (M2) DIANO MARINA (P2)

04/07 Antiques and craft market "Diano Colleziona". Via Santa

10/07 Celebration In the honour of the patron saint Santa Maria Maddalena. Food and dancing.

ROCCHETTA NERVINA (M1)

31/07 Garden event “Sagra della Capra e dei Fagioli”. Food and

08/07 Italian food and crafts fair "Made in Italy". At Piazza Torre Santa Maria. 9am-7pm. Also on 09/07, 05/08 and 06/08 on the promenade. SAVONA (R2)

12/07 Opera La Traviata by G. Verdi. At Fortezza del Priamar, Piazzale de Maschio. 9.30pm. Also on 14/07 and 16/07. SEBORGA (M2)

24/07 Street festival “Notte Biancazzurra”. Music and food. At Piazza Martiri Patrioti and in the Old Town. In the evening. VENTIMIGLIA (M2)

21/07 Guided tour Giardini Hanbury park. 6pm. Also on 28/07. Reservation required: www.cooperativa-omnia.com or Tel. 01 84 22 95 07

MUSIC 16 July 2010

www.rivieratimes.com

Guettas Unighted

Summer music festivals Something for everyone across the Riviera

amous in July for the Nice Jazz Festival and its cooler Jazz à Juan cousin, the Riviera also boasts many other music events offering every type of genre you can imagine. Here is a selection: Festival Côté Cour From 2nd to 27th July this outdoor festival in Aix-enProvence unites young talents, singers of world music, jazz musicians and comic opera in different venues in the town. www.festival-cotecour.org Festival Folklore de Château-Gombert From 3rd to 10th July, this kooky folk festival in Marseille aims to discover different cultures. Dancers, musicians, arts and crafts traders meet in one place to share their traditions. www.festivaldefolklore.fr/ Crazy Week! From 6th to 10th July in Nice's Théâtre de Verdure, Crazy Week offers an eclectic mix of reggae, rap, pop, rock and folk acts with hot-ticket names such as the infamous Peter Doherty, powerpop band Superbus, Marseille bad boys IAM and Tom "Lady Melody" Frager. www.crazyweek.com Festival Les Nuits du Sud From 8th July to 7th August Vence's glorious open air gardens host music acts from around the world, but with the spirit of Provence at its heart. One of the best known ska and reggae groups, Toots and the Maytals from Jamaica share the same stage as Funkadelic from the USA, the Los Angeles Crenshaw Gospel Choir and "the White Zulu" himself, Johnny

Clegg from South Africa. www.nuitsdusud.com/ Les Suds à Arles From 12th to 18th July a world music festival offers a wide range of genres in both ticketed and free concerts. This year's line up features Spanish singer Diego el Cigala, Afro-pop legend Salif Keïta and Gypsy Punk Band Gogol Bordello. www.suds-arles.com/ Les Nuits du Château From 19th July to 3rd August, Les Nuits fuses music, dance and theatre in the majestic courtyard of Mandelieu-La Napoule's castle. Expect gospel, country music, contemporary dance, comedy, and traditional Russian music. www.ot-mandelieu.fr/mandelieu/ Festival de Martigues From 20th to 27th July, the Martigues festival proudly proclaims as its slogan: "Since 1988, the cultures of the world meet each other in the streets of Provence’s Venice". A whole range of theatrical and musical acts. www.festival-martigues.fr International Piano Festival of La Roque d'Anthéron From 23rd July to 22nd August some of the world’s top pianists descend on La Roque d'Anthéron’s open-air auditorium Parc de Florans. This sophisticated festival is a mix of mainly free concerts and masterclasses. www.festival-piano.com Musique Cordiale From 4th to 14th August in Seillans, Bargemon and Mons a delightful classical music festival in some lovely venues, now in its sixth year. www.musique-cordiale.com Rupert Clague

Behind every great DJ superstar there's a great woman

f you pay attention to the French media then the chances are you've already come across Cathy Guetta. As wife of international DJ superstar David Guetta, Cathy is one-half of one of France's biggest celebrity couples. Imagine the French equivalent of Posh and Becks and you're on the right track. In fact the parallels between the two couples are striking. Like the Beckhams, Cathy and David met when they were young and have stayed together as their celebrity stars have risen. They too have a carefully controlled image and a clearly identifiable brand name. Finally, Cathy, much like Victoria, is a strong woman who supports her husband's career in addition to forging her own in the music and fashion industries. "I help David, with his emails, his photo shoots, video clips…and through everything we stay together." Cathy told the RT during her whirlwind trip to the Riviera for the Cannes Film Festival in May. Only the night before David, the man behind huge hits like the Black Eyed Peas' I Gotta Feelin, had taken the World Music Awards by storm, picking up Best DJ, Best Producer and Best French Artist. "He's in the studio in Nice now, with Akorn, and the minute they've finished the tracks I'll be calling and saying, "David! Come here, I want to listen!" I know everything about him and he knows everything about me." Although their lives have changed drastically since they first met 21 years ago - when he was a wannabe DJ and she a waitress - this tendency towards collaboration has remained a constant element in the Guetta's relationship and one of the keys to the couple's success. And it is no more successfully realised than in Unighted, a club-night

spectacular that Cathy is bringing to Nice this summer. Now in its third year, Unighted is France's biggest dance music event, with 40,000 people descending en mass to one stadium to party to some of the world's top DJs. Cathy got involved after Jean-Christophe Giletta, Director of Stade de France,

France there is virtually nothing." Having grown up in Toulon, Cathy has a strong connection to the region but for Unighted only two locations were feasible: Marseille and Nice. In the end it was the floor capacity, which can hold almost 40,000 people, that gave Nice the edge. She says that the support she's

Fabulous & famous: Guetta brings France’s biggest dance party to Nice

contacted her with the idea of creating an event for the huge stadium in Paris: "He'd come across something similar in Holland and had been shocked to see thousands of people dancing all night long," she explains. "He didn't know how to go about organising it because he didn't know the club scene at all, so he called me and asked me to help. It was a huge thing and I was afraid but I thought I'd try." The first Unighted, with Guetta and Carl Cox headlining, was a sell out. Now, after two years at the Stade de France, Cathy says that it needs a makeover: "The first Unighted was a massive success and, even though it was just as huge, the second didn't feel so exciting. So, for the third edition, I sat down with Jean-Christophe and brainstormed the ways we could make this year different. I suggested we move it south because everything happens in Paris during the summer, all the big events are there, whereas in the South of

received from the mayor Christian Estrosi has been an additional factor for choosing the city, as was the fact that it is a premiere destination and the event will take place on the 7th August, which is the holiday season in France. "I'm excited!" she gushes. "What I love most is the mix of people, the different nationalities and styles. Before 60 per cent of the crowd was Parisian … coming to Nice, we'll be closer to Italy, Corsica, Spain and to people in the South of France of course. It's new and I don't know what to expect." She may not have a sense of who will be on the dance floor yet but she can be sure that it will be full. Those lucky enough to grab a spot in the Stade Charles Ehrmann are in for quite a treat: Cathy is no wallflower and the parties she throws are legendary. "I want to present a dream to people, to the ears with the music and to the eyes with the special effects, decoration and dancing, it's the whole package." Her point is that Unighted is like

nothing else, "Basically, I create my club. The biggest club with the biggest dance floor and the biggest DJs in the world. I never wanted it to be a festival - with different tents for trance, house, electro - it had to be one space with everybody in it, playing all styles of dance music." In person Cathy is, as one would imagine, a powerful creature - a force of energy who speaks with an infectious enthusiasm. She’s also warm and friendly and, perhaps a little surprisngly, not such a diva. There’s no doubt that she revels in the spotlight: she opened one Unighted by entering in a helicopter and the other with an extravagant dance routine, backed by 40 professional dancers. However, there’s much more to her than sparkle and celebrity and anyone who assumes she’s riding on the tail coat of her famous husband is mistaken. “David and I have stayed together, year-by-year, stepby-step. First we were employees, then promoters and finally owners. When David’s career took off, I was the one who had to run our businesses in Paris (France’s first table-dancing bar, Pink Paradise, and the restaurant, La Suite). I had 200 employees and I was also a mum to two young children, it was hard for me.” Five years ago she and David decided to sell up: “My work was my addiction so I fell into depression after we sold everything.” To beat the blues she started the popular weekly night, F*** me I’m Famous, in Ibiza, which has since become a global brand. “It’s still a lot of work but it’s not the same as before, now I can do my night and relax with my kids by the pool the next day.” Cathy then is a woman who has it all these days: her own party, her own brand, a ‘quiet’ life and a perfectly Unighted superstar DJ on her arm. HM www.unighted.fr

ART & CULTURE July 2010

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Bang bang! Giacometti comes home W

hen I got the job working for Cai, I was excited. I mean I get to burn stuff and it’s legal. It’s a pyromaniac’s dream.” Welcome to the studio of Cai Guo-Qiang, where the staff blow things up every day. The Chinese artist is famous for his paintings that replace oil paints with gun powder. There’s nothing explosive going on when we meet at MAMAC, just ahead of the opening of his new exhibition, Travels in the Mediterranean, apart from Guo-Qiang himself who’s gesticulating wildly at a man who’s fixing a light bulb. Finally tearing himself away from his installation to talk, he says with a smile, “Coming to Nice reminds me that, as an artist, I shouldn’t be too serious. Life should be fun, relaxed and happy.” The huge work now on display at the

Summer exhibition has a unique friendship at its heart

A Cai Guo-Qiang now lives in NYC

museum is not, however, only the artist’s vision of the Mediterranean: he sent a student from his former university in Shanghai to the Riviera a week ahead of his own arrival, they then collaborated on the new site specific piece together. “I have been travelling in Europe for 40 years,” he explains, “so this girl helped me to see what I might not have seen myself.” The outline was sketched by local art students and the work created at two explosion events in Nice’s abattoir. The artist says that he found the local gunpowder to have a sprinkled effect, like paint. Asian powder, you see, is more smokey, like an Oriental Travels in the Mediterranean by a pool of olive oil ink drawing. HM

s children, Isabelle and Yoyo Maeght were used to the world's most celebrated artists coming and going in their lives. Marc Chargall, Georges Braque and Alberto Giacometti were just a few of the people who would stay with their art dealer grandfather, Aimé Maeght and his wife Marguerite at their home in Paris. With this in mind, the Maeght Foundation's major summer exhibition of the works of Giacometti has a particularly strong personal resonance for the sisters. Around a friend "It is an exhibition around our Alberto," said Isabelle at a recent press conference. The show, which runs at the famous foundation in SaintPaul de Vence from now until the 31st of October, will present a selection of 170 works produced by the Swiss master between 1946-66, among them sculptures, bronze figures, paintings and drawings. There are also several of Giacometti's personal papers on display, many being shown to the public for the first time. Together with Yoyo, Isabelle is now director of the con-

temporary art foundation that her grandfather built in 1964. Aimé was by this point highly respected in art circles, considered a brilliant collector with an exceptional eye. The Maeght foundation has just been the subject of a huge renovation project, to the tune of 1.3 million euros. "The town of Saint-Paul-deVence hasn't given us anything," Isabelle is keen to point out. She says proudly that thanks to the considerable investment they've made, the foundation has now, at last, ushered in the 21st century. An element of emotion This latest exhibition certainly promises to be unlike any other because not only does it feature art of the highest quality but it has at its very heart a friendship that spanned 20 years between a collector, his family and a great modern master. It's this emotional element which gives the show its uniqueness, that makes it so special. The two men first met each other in 1946. Aimé had just opened his gallery in Paris and he found himself immediately attracted to Giacometti. As far as he was concerned,

Fondation Maeght

Chinese artist exploads at MAMAC

The artist Alberto Giacometti (right) here with Adrien (left), son of Aimé and Marguerite, at the Adrien Maeght gallery, 11th June 1959

they shared the same vision and way of thinking about art. So the collector took the artist under contract and from 1951 Giacometti showed his work at the Maeght gallery. In 1959, when his foundation was in the planning stages, Aimé offered his friend a space on the new site. Overlooking the foothills of the Côte d'Azur, this place would, he promised, do the artist’s vision justice and be the perfect home for his work "Alberto participated in our daily life," explained Isabelle. "My grandmother, Marguerite,

always kept photos of her most beloved people in her wallet: one was of her husband, one was of her children and one was of Alberto." The fond affection was mutual: in this show there are three of four portraits he painted of his friend's wife. "The exhibition does not suffer from the melancholy of nostalgia though," Yoyo points out, "it is full of life." HM/PH Giacometti & Maeght 19461966 - until the 31st October, Fondation Maeght, Saint-Paulde-Vence

GOURMET 18 July 2010

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New guide out now Hats off to the melon Gourmet rendezvous launches Guide Gantié in sumptuous style

n 31st of May close to a thousand people, taste buds aquiver, filled every available parking space in Le Cannet near the new gastronomic restaurant complex of Bruno Oger, the former two-star chef of the Majestic Hotel in Cannes. The occasion? The launch of the 19th edition of the Guide Gantié, an annual restaurant guide which presents 800 gourmet tables, large and small, simple and sumptuous, in the PACA region (ProvenceAlpes-Côte d’Azur), Liguria and Piedmont, as well as 500 outstanding regional products, such as olive oil, cheeses and honey, plus a selection of

A feeding of the one thousand

charming places to stay. Created in 1992 by former Nice-Matin editorial writer and food columnist Jacques Gantié, the guide’s trademark are the articulate, detailed reviews it provides, which are entirely rewritten every year. The fact it is also translated and published as a separate tome in English under the title of Gantié’s Gourmet Tables makes it unique among French restaurant guides. The crowd that thronged to the launch came both to see his gastronomic restaurant la Villa Archange, his Bistrot des Anges and the Ange Bar, opened only three weeks earlier, and to eat and drink. Gourmet pedigree It was tastebud heaven. A tantalizing buffet of gourmet titbits had been prepared by Bruno Oger, Yannick Franques, the two-star chef of Château Saint Martin & Spa in Vence, and Sébastian Broda, the onestar chef of Le Park 45 in Cannes. Joining them were producers of hams, cheeses, breads, pastries and other delicacies in the guide. Champagne, regional wines, fruit cocktails and gourmet coffee made up the liquid portion of the copious feast, served on the terraces and inside the restaurant complex. Among leading chefs who took a rare busman’s holiday to attend the launch and enjoy the equally rare chance to eat someone else's food, were Didier Aniès (Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat), Serge

The summer markets of Provence ripen under sweet scent

Jacques Gantié (right) with Chef Bruno Oger and the new guide

Gouloumès (Hôtel le Mas Candille, Mougins), Christian Morisset (Le Figuier de SaintEsprit, Antibes) and Nicolas Sale (Les Pêcheurs, Juan-lesPins). Jacques Gantié, who has won several awards, including the French National Prize for best restaurant critic in 1997, has followed the changes and developments in the regional restaurant industry with a perceptive eye and a finely honed, honest pen. This year, in recognition of a true crisis, he entitled his editorial ‘The Moment of Truth’ and added a new section: ‘Sages of the Year’, grouping nearly 100 chefs who deliver particularly good value for money. He salutes these thoughtful, creative chefs, “because they cook straight and don’t take their clients for imbeciles.” Jacques Gantié has the same healthy respect for his readers. Bon appétit! Ester Laushway

azily wandering through the aisles of brightly coloured stalls you are assailed by the heady perfumes of tomatoes, basil, mint, strawberries and, most potent of all, the scent zinging out from huge piles of melons. This is the month when Cavaillon's famed Charentais is at its sweetest, and what could be more refreshing than a slice of perfectly ripe melon, straight from the fridge. Melons have extremely high water content and when choosing a melon this is one of your first tests. Pick it up - it should weigh more than you would think for its size. Now sniff it - it should smell sweet, but not musky. You want it firm, but there should be a tiny give if you press the end opposite the stem, with your thumb. Amongst melonaholics perfection is reached in what they call "female melons". These are identifiable by the large coloured circle on the end opposite the stem that you have just pressed - which is said to resemble the areola of a woman's breast. Yes, I know, only in France! Melon-colic You can over-indulge your melon passion, though. Two popes and two French kings have apparently hit the one-

melon-too-far syndrome, and it was considered to have increased the spread of certain diseases (that high water content isn't always a good thing in times of cholera). Melon makes a wonderful water ice, and can be spectacular if you serve it in the (frozen) empty hull of the fruit,

Melons are at their best in July

"stem hat" perched jauntily on the top, sitting on a bed of crushed ice, in a glass bowl. But I love this incredibly simple ice cream recipe delicious served with a chilled glass of Muscat de Beaumede-Venise.

Cavaillon melon ice cream (serves 6) -1 ripe Cavaillon melon of about 1.5 kg in weight - 300 ml crème fraiche épaisse - 175g caster sugar - 1 lemon Peel and de-seed the melon, and cut the flesh up roughly. Combine cream and sugar in a pan and stir, heating until the sugar is dissolved, then cool slightly. Squeeze lemon into food processor bowl, add the melon flesh and mix on full power until smooth. Add the sweetened cream and process until thoroughly mixed. If you have an ice cream maker, churn the mix in it until think and creamy and practically frozen, then finish in the freezer in a plastic box until ready. (If you have to do this manually, pour the mix into a large pre-chilled plastic box and put in the freezer until nearly frozen solid. Take it out and with a fork mix it all up thoroughly, to add air and eliminate ice crystals. Replace in the freezer and repeat this process twice more.) Take the ice cream out of the freezer a quarter of an hour before serving, and accompany with fresh mint and raspberries, or brandy snap biscuits, or both! Juliet Young

A French Fancy Jasmine Synnott A girl from Oz finding her feet with cordon bleu culture Read this monthly column online at rivieratimes.com/columns

Summer truffle IT MAY not be as famous (or should that be 'infamous' given the price) as the classic French black truffle (Tuber melanosporum) from the Périgord region of southwest France, but the summer season's Tuber aestivum has a seductively subtle aroma and does not burn such a big hole in the pocket. Costing between 200-300 euros a kilo, the truffle is sniffed out and dug up from late spring until about midJuly from under the same oak trees as its more aristocratic cousin, so they should be in the markets by July. The flavour of a truffle is directly related to its aroma, which, particularly with this more delicate variety, will decrease rapidly if not eaten fresh. The way to enjoy them to the full is to grate or insert thin slivers of uncooked truffle over not too strongly flavoured dishes such as scrambled eggs, warm potato salad, veal, chicken and fish, soufflés, pasta, and rice. It is also useful for livening up creamy sauces as these will soak the flavour up nicely.

This month: the joys of Cliquot and chicken

erusing the menu on the sun-drenched rooftop of the Hotel Aston in Nice, I decided to take a break from the Rosé IV I have been hooked up to for the past two months and order champagne. It did seem a little decadent for a not-toospectacular Tuesday afternoon but as Oscar Wilde said "Only the unimaginative can fail to think of a reason for drinking champagne". So I toasted the World Cup although I have no idea who has won or played. I am with Simon who, like many of my well-meaning friends is trying to set me up with one of his emotionally unstable, alcoholic friends. It is hard to make out what he is saying over the ticking of my biological clock so I close my eyes and let the effervescence consume me: “hello friend”. It is a challenge to drink champagne and feel anything but joy. It is a celebration, an awakening of the senses and the most versatile drink in that it can be served with almost anything (save artichoke,

asparagus and chocolate which neutralise the taste). Interestingly, it was the English who invented champagne in the 17th century. Of course, under the Anglais it was a cloudy wine that needed to be decanted before drinking. Fortunately, the widow Cliquot changed that whne she discovered méthode traditionnelle. By slowly turning the bottles upside down at her kitchen table the yeast fermentation was removed and champagne became the clear drink we know today. Madame Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV claimed it was the only wine that enhanced a woman's beauty. While I am not entirely convinced of its beautifying benefits, the high amount of antioxidant polyphenols do help prevent deterioration of brain cells caused by oxidative stress, and it’s reported that moderate consumption may help the brain cope with the trauma of stroke, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease. Health and beauty aside, as an ever-evolving hedonist I

have often use it in cooking. Chicken breast & champagne -1 1/2 tbsp flour mixed with 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp tarragon, finely crushed, 1/2 tsp white pepper & 1/4 tsp paprika -4 half chicken breasts, boned -3 tbsp butter -1 tbsp oil -1 bottle champagne -3/4 cup sliced mushrooms -1 cup cream Roll chicken breasts in the seasoned flour. In a large frying pan heat 2 tbsp of butter with oil, add breasts skin-side down and brown slowly on both sides. Remove excess fat and pour in champagne. Cover with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar and simmer until chicken is tender and champagne reduced by about half. In a separate frying pan heat remaining butter until bubbly and add the mushrooms, cooking over medium high heat until crisp. Place the chicken on a serving dish, and add mushrooms. Add cream to the chicken pan, simmer until slightly thick. Pour over chicken. Serve garnished with cherry tomatoes and parsley.

OUTDOORS July 2010

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Plunge into a river hike Safer than canyoning and just as much fun but you need a guide

icked! That, in a word of a 12-yearold who had just jumped from an 11-metre high rock into a river, just about sums up a randonnée aquatique. Loosely translated as an ‘aquatic hike’ meaning it is on a par with the more physically demanding canyoning, where you need ropes and things, but safer and arguably as much fun. The lower mountains of the Alpes-Maritimes, Gorges de Daluis and the Gorges du Verdon in the Var are a haven for people who love messing about in rivers that tumble down sheer-sided gorges in a series of cataracts, emerald green pools and sparkling streams. Gorges du Loup hike Our guide for a half day in the narrow Gorges du Loup (Barsur-Loup’s valley) was MarieAnne from Nice who we met on the road that runs alongside the gorge (at Pont-duLoup we took the right hand road to Gréolières). There’s not much room for parking so we had a nonaquatic walker drop us off at the meeting point where we all squeezed into the wetsuits and helmets provided. Then it was a short clamber down to

the river bed below for that first “gosh it’s cold” gasp as we entered the water and began our adventure. We were a party of three ladies of a certain age and three lads, 12 to 17, paying a little over the odds to main-

cascades, keeping chins on chests and arms crossed as instructed by Marie-Anne. The beauty of this hike is that there is always a way round the big leaps if you are worried about your leg bones going up into your backbone.

Saint Donat Golf Club

Friendly new golf challenge Join us for a wonderful day in Provence - all levels welcome

Angus Keen watches brother Jack leaping into one of many pools

tain our autonomy (usually it’s about 35-50 euros a person depending on how many you are) and this particular route has something for everyone. So, no, the ladies of a certain age did not do the eleven metre jump so beloved by the boys but we did manage seven metres and lower (there are several), we also leapt happily into a foaming torrent of water and slip-slided down all the

And it is a wonderful way to embrace the beauty of the gorge. The only downside is that you are not the only ones enjoying it. However, we found there were plenty of times during the afternoon when we felt completely alone - heavenly. If anyone would like to get in touch with Marie-Anne, please contact The Riviera Times. There are also organisations on the web. Claire Lathbury

t's a first! The beautiful Saint Donat Golf Club just south of Grasse is the chosen venue for our new Riviera Times Golf Cup to be held on the 2nd of October with fabulous prizes to be won. The tournament is open to everyone, whether you are an expert or an amateur. And as always with events organised by The Riviera Times it is not just about the golf: it is an opportunity to make new contacts, get together with friends, extend your network and most importantly to have a great day in the heart of Provence. It all starts at 9am with breakfast on the clubhouse terrace followed by a session on the driving range to get your eye in before the tourn-

ament begins on the 18-hole course at 10.45am. The competition is based on a modified Texas Scramble format with teams of two (instead of four) playing each other. Both members of the team play a ball off the same point and the best shot is the one that continues to be played. After five hours of golfing there will be a buffet and refreshments starting from around 3.15pm on the terrace with prize-giving scheduled for 5pm. The main prizes are a weekend for two in the stunning five-star Turnberry Resort

in Scotland; a chance to take part in the Club Yachting Life Regatta offered by Cup sponsor Dahm International; and a night for two in the Boutique Hotel JK Place in Florence. The all-in cost of 149 euros per person includes green fees, access to the driving range, breakfast, buffet and all drinks, plus a top quality polo shirt embroidered with the Riviera Times Golf Cup logo. Fee to be paid when you make your booking. Tel: +33 (0)6 78 72 15 52 EMail: s.weber@mediterra.com

Not stumped for choice The positive energy of Pigna Contrary to some opinions there is plenty for children to do here

local French paper recently published an article implying that the Côte d’Azur has very little to offer children, which I find very unfair and rather sad. On the contrary this region is blessed with extremely rich natural resources, without mentioning the man-made attractions that spoil our youngsters far more than millions ever could. Here are a few tips on what to enjoy this summer: Adventure: there are near to 20 adventure playgrounds either in the mountains or in towns to the west of Nice and in the Var, most of which offer tracks for all ages even for toddlers. Alternatively try your hand at rafting, canyoning or via ferrata on and nearby the Verdon, Var, Vésubie and Roya rivers, usually from age six. Culture: if you want to

Refresh the body and soul at this Grand Hotel and Beauty Spa

T escape the heat, many of the region’s museums can be fun for youngsters: the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco with its fabulous aquariums, or you can learn about shells in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, butterflies in Levens and cooking in Villeneuve-Loubet. You can also visit caves in St. Vallier de Thiey, a castle in Barben, or a sweet factory in Tourrettes-sur-Loup. Fun: Menton is a good place to begin with mini theme park, ‘Koaland’, ideal for age six and under. Head west to Monaco where there is always a summer fair on the main port until the end of August and then VilleneuveLoubet for ‘Le Bois des Lutins’, great fun for two to ten year

Full range of treatments available

Grand Hotel Antiche Terme is located in the beautiful Nervia Valley

the number of footpaths and excursions you can take to explore the surrounding area. Ten years ago this hotel and spa complex was built to a very high standard with two swimming pools, and offers the most modern treatments. Without a doubt, a priority is the wellbeing of the body and soul. The wide choice of massages and beauty treatments include Ayurveda, antiageing, hot stones, mudtreatments and oriental applications such as the blissful Shiatsu. The highly qualified staff in the Spa and Beauty area are

attentive and discreet, and are only too willing to tailor-make a package of treatments to suit the individual. There is also a doctor on site and a cardio-fitness technogym where a qualified team is available to help you develop a suitable programme. Hotel Pigna Antiche Terme Regione Lago Pigo 18037 PIGNA Tel: Grand Hotel: +39 0184 240 010 Spa & Beauty: +39 0184 240 040 Fax: +39 0184 240949 info@ termedipigna.it www.termedipigna.it

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olds. Then it’s Antibes Land to have a thrill on fun rides suitable for the threes to adults. The Var also has its venues such as Azur Park in Gassin and Aqualand in Fréjus. The Alpes-Maritimes alone boasts 13 natural parks. All of them make a great day out for a family and some offer specific kids’ facilities such as a playground, nature trail or treasure hunt. Nice has just renovated the Estienne d’Orves Park, in the heart of the town and one of many to boast breathtaking views over the sea. You may also fancy a visit to Monaco’s beautiful and child friendly parks and gardens; Parc Phoenix in Nice home to animals, birds and a fabulous variety of plants, or ‘Le Village des Tortues’ in Gonfaron that nurtures over 2,500 tortoises. If you are a nature lover the nearby mountain resorts are a must and are fabulous for kids! For more details and ideas for families and children on the French Riviera and nearby connect to www.familyfirst.fr (French and English).

he site where the Grand Hotel Antiche Terme di Pigna is located has a very, very long history and it is easy to see why. For centuries people have been enjoying the health-giving benefits of the 31°C sulphur springs in this privileged place. Even today you can feel the positive energy of this spiritual, utterly relaxing place in the verdant Nervia Valley in Liguria. Far from the madding crowd, deep in the heart of an unspoiled natural landscape, the Grand Hotel and Beauty Spa is incredibly quiet and peaceful, offering a chance to totally relax and recharge your batteries just 30 minutes by car from San Remo or Monaco. Another positive attraction is

REAL ESTATE 20 July 2010

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Life annuity sales The various ways to buy property en viager in these difficult times

ith the stock market increasingly uncertain and real estate prices now slowly on the mend buying a property en viager as a medium to longterm investment has its advantages. And it is not only advantageous for the buyer or investor: the recently bereaved, particularly widows in their 70s and 80s, who may not have had careers and “earned” their own pensions, often find themselves having to rely on half the previous pension for a couple, and will welcome the monthly rent received from the buyer. Half the normal price From a buyer's standpoint he can buy a property, with an initial outlay, the bouquet, at only around 50 per cent of the sale price amount he would have had to pay immediately in a normal sale. Capital is thus preserved and/or there may be no need to take out a mortgage. Although viager transactions account for an extremely small percentage of real estate business they are becoming more “popular” and our region, with its sunny climate, is near the top of the list for people in their early middle age planning for the

Retirees are often glad of the monthly rent that comes if they sell their house through a viager agreement

good life here when they retire. There are various types of viager, and by far the most common is the viager occupé. The seller or sellers (if both spouses are alive) continue to live in the property as if they were renting it, except that they receive the rent. They pay the residents' tax (taxe d'habitation), are responsible for day-to-day running costs and repairs, any maintenance charges and part of the property tax (impôt foncier). The new proprietor pays for any major repairs or renovations, such as replacing the heating system if it breaks down completely. Other viagers include the viager libre, fixed-period annuity, viager à rente certaine and a subsistence viager (bail à nourriture). Secondary homes The viager libre often concerns a second home which has been let by its proprietor who now prefers to capitalise his asset, by selling it free of occupation. As the property is unoccupied, giving the new owner freedom to let it, the bouquet is much higher than for a viager libre. Thus both new and former proprietors are happy. The viager à rente certaine also has advantages for both buyer

and seller: the buyer knows exactly what his total outlay will be and the seller's family will continue to receive the monthly rent if the latter dies before the fixed period is up. The bail à nourriture viager is a more 'finely tuned' option as the buyer will pay subsistence costs including heating and healthcare. Tax benefits There is always an initial bouquet payment with all the above, and, with the exception of viager libre, the seller(s) continue to occupy the property. Whether occupied or 'free' the seller is allowed certain tax allowances on his or her tax return, which are better as they get older. Expert advice a must So there are advantages and benefits on both sides. Viager is not as cold and calculating as it first seems. It is, however, a transaction that should be negotiated through a specialist real estate agent, especially as projected calculations for life expectancy of one or often two people linked to medical histories and the way this effects the property's viager market value are complicated. Richard Whiting

Two examples of viager proposals Although dealing directly with proprietors is not recommended, the following summaries of recent owners' advertisements are useful: Nice: viager occupé. 83 and 80 year-old couple. 3 bedroom apartment (137 m²). Bouquet 220,000 euros. Rent 2,080 euros. Juan-Les-Pins: viager occupé. 87 year-old. 2 bedroom apartment (70 m²). Bouquet 100,000 euros. Rent 1,680 euros. Like all property ownership changes, a viager transaction needs an acte authentique document drawn up by a notaire.

M O R T G A G E Financial Institution

Contact

en ok Sp

C O N D I T I O N S Interest p.a.

Tel / Fax.

Peter Andersen Camille Marne Ole Lien

G, F DK E, S, N

Tel: +33 (0)4 93 39 39 00 Fax: +33 (0)4 93 39 39 02 Email:info@jyskebank.fr www.jbpb.fr

Lucette Racano, Audrey Ballestri

E,I,F

Mathilde Delavau, Anaïs Mary

E,D,F

Tel: +33(0)4 93 14 15 16 Fax: +33(0)4 93 14 81 01 International.Branch@ca-pca.fr ca-pca.fr/english ca-pca.fr/italiano

M O R T G A G E Financial Institution

RFP - RIVIERA FINANCIAL PLANNING SARL

Loan Ratio

VARIABLE

FIXED

3 months variable rates EUR 3,40% USD 3,20% GBP 3,45% CHF 2,90% JPY 2,95%

3 months interest period. 5-35 years with max10 years interest only. Min. loan e 250,000.

variable CAP 1% 15 YRS 3.30 % 20 YRS 3.60 %

Max. 65% of valuation. Up to 100% with extra collateral

Sanctioning Mortgage Process Insurance Fees 7 days

0,25 % min. e 750

You save money from the first year and benefit from any reduction in rates.

mix: from 12 to 20 YRS 3.60 %

Your mortgage is divided into 2 periods : one at a fixed rate during 7 or 10 years and a second at a variable rate with a CAP 2%

B R O K E R S

Contact

en ok p S

Mike Lorimer

Tel: +33 (0)4 93 74 73 35 Mob: +33 (0)6 21 85 84 42 info@mikelorimer.com www.mikelorimer.com

Specialising in helping international clients obtain mortgages, re-mortgages and equity releases for French properties.

Yves Derrien

E F D

Tel: +33 (0)4 93 00 11 71 info@rfp.fr www.rfp.fr

Real estate financing in France provided by European banks and unit-linked life insurance from a range of European insurance companies. Specialist international financial advice, from a qualified IFA, regarding relocation from anywhere in Europe to Switzerland, France or Monaco.

Tel / Fax.

Description

BUSINESS www.rivieratimes.com

July 2010

Wealth tax issues Property finance If, when, how to pay the French ISF

fter the Income Tax return, it is important not to forget the French Wealth Tax (or ISF - Impôt sur la Fortune). This tax is payable on net assets above 790,000 euros held on 1st of January each year. However there is a difference between "French Residents" and "Non-Residents": - For residents, the worldwide assets are taxable and the tax must be declared and paid by the 15th of June, - For non-residents, only real estate located in France is liable for wealth tax which should be paid by 15th of July for European residents and 31st of August for the others. For 2010, the tax bands are listed in the box below. The assets that are taken into consideration are land and buildings (French residents can deduct 30 per cent from the market value of their principal residence), financial investments, jewellery, furniture (self-made inventory is accepted or five per cent of the value of the whole assets), cars, etc. To calculate the tax, you must add up the total value of

assets from which you can deduct your debts, the paid property taxes (Taxe d'Habitation and Taxes Foncières) as well as the amount of the mortgage if you have used one to purchase your property. Some ISF exemptions exist like antiques (older than 100 years), works of art and business assets. The payments can be done by cheques or bank transfers, but also for 75 per cent in the form of gift payments (up to 50,000 euros) made between the 16th of June 2009 and 15th of June 2010. However, those gifts cannot be the same ones used to reduce your income tax. As with income tax, the tax administration has three years to check your wealth tax declaration. Each household has to consider whether they are liable to wealth tax or not, but if the French tax authorities can prove that you are liable, they can collect arrears of payment over the past six years if no declaration has been made. Jean-Philippe Gioanni is a chartered accountant at the Commissaire aux Comptes, Cannes

Wealth tax bands for 2010 In euros

Rate

Up to 790,000 790,000 - 1,290,000 1,290,000 - 2,530,000 2,530,000 - 3,980,000 3,980,000 - 7,600,000 7,600,000 - 16, 540,000 Over 16,540,000

0 per cent 0.55 per cent 0.75 per cent 1.00 per cent 1.30 per cent 1.65 per cent 1.80 per cent0

This month we’re talking about mortages Last month you presented your activities as an IFA. What services do you offer clients looking for finance? RFP, as a financial advisor, is also a mortgage broker. We work with a broad range of banking partners across Europe and can offer our clients the financial solution that best suits their needs. Indeed, the purchase of a property in France implies fiscal or financial RFP Director: issues, Yves Derrien which can be solved with a loan. Can you give some examples of these issues and the types of loans that can solve the problems? For a second home with a value exceeding one million euros, an interest-only loan will permanently reduce the tax base for France’s wealth tax. Concerning the purchase of a main residence in France by a resident, an amortized loan is more appropriate. If the purchase is made by a future resident, a mixed loan (interest-only during a first period and then amortized during a second period) could also offer a good solution. If it is for a buy-to-let purchase of a property, an interest-only loan is well worth considering because

the amount of interest paid each month stays constant, which reduces the taxable rental income. Finally, if the client wishes to get some cash for a project, it is possible to find an equity release mortgage (amortized or interest-only loan). Why should we contact RFP, rather than a bank? Once we know the financial and fiscal situation of the client, we determine the type of mortgage that suits them best: an interest-only loan (depending on the country of origin of the bank, these loans can be arranged with or without a pledged portfolio or an insurance policy), an amortized loan or a mixed loan, with a variable rate (with or without a ceiling rate) or with a fixed rate. It is also possible to find multi-currency loans in euros, pounds or other currencies. No bank offers this whole range of products, but RFP is totally independent and can advise clients impartially and negotiate the most suitable loan with French or foreign banks (in Monaco, Switzerland or Luxembourg), and can ensure a long term follow-up in French, English or German. Next month, we will discuss the benefits of becoming a tax resident in France. Riviera Financial Planning Independent Financial Advisor and Mortgage Broker Tel: +33 (0)4 93 00 11 26 ADVERTORIAL

Love The Riviera Times? Then check out our website for even more stories and indepth reports from the South of France, Monaco and Northern Italy. Updated with new material daily, you’ll find the most up-to-the-minute news about the region, its culture, economy, services and events at www.rivieriatimes.com - Your gateway to the Riviera...!

PEOPLE & ASSOCIATIONS 22

July 2010

www.rivieratimes.com

Mougins alumni

Beau Sebastian Scott

An image from a new set of images inspired by old film posters from photographer Beau Scott. This is one of a series of shots that will be exhibited at L’homme D’Interieurs, 7 rue des Gabres, Cannes on the evening of the 23rd of July. His former classmate DJ Karim Skalli is providing a sound created specially for the night, which is sponsored by Fashion For Floors and has food provided by La Cave. “We’re all old friends from school, now in our 20s, who are collaborating together to create great local events and expose our art to the world,” says Beau.

A group of former students from Mougins school have reunited several years after graduating to work together on creative projects. The trio are photographer Beau Scott, DJ Karim Skalli and Bryan Birget who runs his own PR and events company. On Friday 23rd of July they will combine their talents for an event at L’homme D’Interieurs, a venue that will be run by another Mougins graduate, Sacha Gaillot (see left).

Arty lunch SAFI (South African International Association) invites you to meet the celebrated South African artist Gerda van Wyk, over a relaxed Sunday lunch in the old town of Vence on the 18th at 12.30pm - all are welcome. To book a place email safiriviera@orange.fr or call 06 75 93 90 93.

ICR July events Photo by Simon Wynne

The chairman of the British Association, John Fordyce, toasts the Queen at their summer party in June in the garden of the Holy Trinity Church. Before the drinks and nibbles a classical concert had taken place in the church itself featuring viola, violin and cello.

JULY IS the most active month at the International Club of the Riviera! Among events planned are: dinner cruises to coincide with the Cannes Fireworks Festival (14th, 21st & 29th); a World Cup final dinner on the 11th, a boat trip in the lower Gorges du Verdon, a golf outing on the 8th, cricket on the 25th and summer bash on the 31st. More details on events pages or call 06 21 96 59 77.

July 4th invite THE MONACO-USA club invites members and friends to join them for the 4th of July Independence Day celebrations at Stars n' Bars by the port in Monaco, starting at 6.30pm. Foot stomping to a country music band, kids' games, bunting and an à la carte good ole' US-style meal are on offer. There may still be places. Call Stars n' Bars direct on +377 97 97 95 95.

Best of both worlds The International School of Nice opens doors for foreign students

s a foreigner living in France, deciding on the best education for your child can be a challenge. Faced with a choice between the local school system or an international one, parents must decipher the differences and try to work out what will suit their needs. International schools are, for many reasons, a popular choice. The RT met Bernard Ricciardi, the acting Director of the International School of Nice to talk about the benefits. How international is ISN? During this academic year, ISN welcomed 34 nationalities into our student body. The majority of them are from UK but the school also receives a lot of French, Italian, American and Russians and even pupils from South Africa. There are, in addition, 10 nationalities represented in the teaching staff from the USA to the UK to Norway. The international aspect of the ISN implies pluriculturalism and multiethnicity. Are classes taught in French and/or English? Are French cultural aspects emphasised? All our classes are taught in English. French classes are given as a foreign language (five sessions per week). ISN is the only international school on the French Riviera hence English being the main language taught. That’s our specificity and uniqueness. However, we encourage students to get involved with the French community through Wednesday afternoon activities and day excursions. The mission of the school is: - We Inspire students to take a leading, active, and caring role in a changing world - We support students in achieving their academic potential, and developing their individuality - We nourish the minds and

spirits of our students in a safe, friendly, and caring environment. On average, how long do students/staff stay at ISN? The average for students is four to five years, and for staff five to eight years. Some teachers have been with us since the start, that’s 30 years! ISN encourages students to get involved in bigger projects, such as raising funds for education of Tanzanian children. Life at ISN is like being part of a family: to be involved and respectful to others is a duty. School is managed in

How well did the students of ISN do this year? All 27 students received the High School Diploma. We are still waiting for our IB 2010 results, which will be posted the second week of July. Does ISN offer a summer programme for students? For the first time, ISN is offering one for students from 6 to 14 years old that runs until the 16th of July from 9am to 2pm. There are three activities: art appreciation and activities, with museum visits and workshops; drama, arts and crafts inspired by African

All 2010 students gained the High School Diploma

order to be reassuring and efficient for pupils and for their parents. This feature was underlined by the accreditation organs; this is officially recognised proof of quality. Do students automatically obtain an international diploma or are there other options like the French baccalaureate? Our students can receive two internationally validated credentials: a High School Diploma from ISN, accredited by ECIS and MSA, or an International Baccalaureat Diploma or Certificates. All ISN diplomas are recognized by European and American institutions. Therefore, pupils could go on studying in their own country or at US or European universities.

tales; and learn and improve your English (role play, videos and drama). Are there changes afoot for next year? ISN is aiming to increase the Lower School’s activities within the French community. This means pupils in grades three to five will have Classes vertes and Classes de Neiges in French. The school is also intending to increase sports activities and create competitions with schools in France and abroad. Students from grades nine and ten will also have the chance to prepare a selection of IGCSE exams. Over the past few years ISN has invested extensively in new IT equipment, and we are in the process of further integrating its use.

Boost your career with an MBA An MBA is much more than simply a prestigious diploma

The Esicad School is in Nice: A8 exit Nice Saint-Isidore

timise their job potential, or an experienced executive, business manager or projects director keen to gain and validate transverse skills in management. A high level of support from the educational team ensures that you will find the requirements you need to further your own project.

The rhythm of study is particularly well adapted to those who are working, as the two year programme is divided into two modules of three days each per month and could be financed by the candidate or a third-party. MBA participants attend elective courses to acquire detailed knowledge and skills in three specialised fields, namely Management, Finance or Tourism. The last two have been determined by the economic reality of the French Riviera and key business centres such as Cannes, Nice, Sophia Antipolis and Monaco. To find out more, please do not hesitate to contact us to arrange an appointment. Tel: +33 (0)4 93 29 97 10

ADVERTORIAL

he Esicad Business School is a partner of IUKB (Institut Universitaire Kurt Bösch) programmes. It offers an IUKB MBA, an internationally recognised degree designed to provide students with the knowledge and experience necessary to meet the challenges of today's business world. MBA participants enter a very intensive programme to gain a firm practical understanding of management trends. Our top ranked qualification focuses on business development and prepares students for strategic leadership and new roles. The course is ideal for students who want to continue their education to op-

CLASSIFIEDS July 2010

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BOOKS

GARDENING

CARS

MAINTENANCE

CONSTRUCTION EUROBAU CONSTRUCTION

FOR SALE

NICE Relais H Aéroport 1 et 2 FNAC 30 avenue Jean Médecin MONACO Maison de la Presse de Monaco 1bis rue Grimaldi SAINT-TROPEZ Librairie du Port 11 rue des Commerçants

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TO LET NICE France rent studio for holidays Royal Luxembourg Palace with RoofSwimmingpools beginning Promenade next to Palais Mediterannee. Info/pictures marcot1977@katamail.com CANNES France rent studio for holidays Eden Beach Residence beginning Plage Midi-Croix Garde near sea swimmingpool , park. Info/pictures marcot1977@katamail.com

SERVICE IN BIOT-SOPHIA ANTIPOLIS, 15 mins from Nice airport and 2 mins from the motorway, calm, in a gated building, 2 private plots on flat and wooded land 3872 qm with a sea view and a house - to renovate, expand or rebuild. Possibility to build on 15%, or 580 qm habitable. Price 1.2m Euros. No agencies please. Owner's Tel. +33 (0) 6 23 17 25 11 FOR SALE: Luxury apartment in Monaco. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Fully furnished. 136 qm. Large terrace with furniture. Parking and ample storage space. Private seller - NO AGENTS PLEASE. For more information please contact: annabel.kwateng@gmail.com, Tel: +377 97 98 57 61, Mob: +33 (0)6 43 91 28 73

25 Years

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LEGAL SERVICES

Excellent gardeners

FEMALE 40 (experienced and reliable tenant) to look after your property. Available for holiday changovers etc. throughout the year. Tel: +33(0) 661 688 474 E-mail: cotesud2010@gmail.com

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TUITION FRENCH LESSONS by long experienced teacher. Rapid results guaranteed. FIRST LESSON FREE Tel: 04 93 82 05 23

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ANTIBES: Apartment with sea view, 105 qm, 4 rooms, 35 qm balcony, garage, cellar, shared large garden, swimming pool. Prize: 640,000 euros. Phone + 33 (0)4 92 93 84 11

FOR SALE CUSTOM acoustic guitar for sale. Handmade by noted Canadian luthier; exotic tonewoods, Florentine cutaway, Laskin-style armrest, Calton Deluxe flightcase. Professional instrument, incredible sound. Call Steve, +377 93251969.

200 SQM OFFICE SPACE (including big storage space) Strategically situated in an optimal location just at the border of Nice, 10 minutes to the centre and 5 minutes to the A8 motorway. Including 8 outside parking lots. Available immediately.

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For all my services, please call: 04 94 67 95 35 / 06 13 93 57 99 victoriaspettraining99@yahoo.co.uk

INVESTMENT Are you tired of hiding money abroad? Undeclared or undervalued assets? Let me be your anonymous intermediary with the French tax authorities. Total withdrawal possibility at any time, I will not ask you for your name, no commitment until eventual agreement. Alexander Edström. International Financial Advisor and French real-estate broker based in Saint-Raphaël. +33 (0)6 27 86 30 83 / +33 (0)4 94 51 63 37 alexander.edstrom@alumni.insead.edu www.edstrom.optimhome.com

HEALTH

STUNNING, refined and educated woman, 39 yrs old, looking to find someone wonderful, 45-65 yrs old, to enjoy the pleasures of life with: travelling, opera, theatre, good restaurants etc. Email: karina1506@yahoo.com or tel. +39 320 77 45 234

Is alcohol costing you more than money? Call Alcoholics Anonymous

24 hours: 0820 200 257 www.aa-riviera.org

EVENT MANAGEMENT