The English-language newspaper for the French - Italian Riviera & Monaco since 2002
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Issue 152 - November/December 2014 2.50€
Foodie’s month
The Riviera’s best gourmet fairs HISTORY UNDER THE HAMMER Monaco’s treasures up for grabs VILLAGE LIVING
The truth about L'arrière-Pays
Festive events calendar From ballets to Christmas markets
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RIVIERA TIME • NCE68 • SP Plein Papier • 276 x 400 mm • Visuel: PUBLI-BUSINESS • Remise le 22/oct./2014
NEW BUSINESS CLASS SEAT REVOLUTIONARY COMFORT A NEW IDEA OF TRAVEL. Our new business cabins have been designed to ensure comfort and well-being throughout your flight. The French art of hospitality was our inspiration. From now on your Air France seat serves as an office, restaurant, entertainment lounge and bedroom. You decide how to use the cabin to meet your needs. The attentive staff will be there to relax and pamper you with a warm welcome, quality service and little details throughout your flight. Your business seat transforms into a full bed to ensure a good night’s rest. The surrounding space is uniquely designed to keep your personal effects close at hand while providing privacy and direct aisle access. A variety of custom entertainment programming is updated monthly on 16-inch HD touchscreens.
Award winning chefs in flight France is about gastronomy and fine wines. Our rotating team of the finest French chefs will keep you delighted with great classics from every region of France and a wide variety of wine and Champagne.
Zen Air France lounges The spirit of Air France extends to our lounges, where you’ll receive a warm welcome in a calming atmosphere. Per use a wide variety of international publications and enjoy a snack while you wait. For those departing from Paris, relaxing Clarins spa treatments await.
SkyPriority, enjoy priority at the airport Direct access ensuring priority at every step of your journey: Priority check-in, boarding, departure and luggage access. Rendez-vous in Paris Before you set out again on one of a thousand possible destinations with our SkyTeam partners, why not make the most of your stopover in Paris? Monuments, museums and gardens. All of France is here for your enjoyment!
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Gradually installed on long-haul flight on a part of Boeing 777 fleet as of June 2014.
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WELCOME
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T-minus two months The countdown is on. In a few short weeks, The Riviera Times will be relaunched with a new look and exciting new focus! After 13 years as the leading English-language monthly in the French Riviera and Monaco, we thought it was time to rejuvenate The Riviera Times, in keeping with our readers' expectations and those of our valued partners. Replacing the newspaper will be the RT Magazine with a modern format, more detailed stories, and captivating pictures (for a sneak preview, see page 23!). The same professional team of journalists behind The Riviera Times will be producing the RT Magazine, including, of course, yours truly. We are incredibly excited about our new project, and we know when you see the RT Magazine you simply won't be able to keep your hands off it! In order to have everything ready by January 2015 we will not be producing a December edition of The Riviera Times. Alas, this is the final version of the newspaper as you know it. But we have combined November and December events in this publication to ensure you don't miss out, including a full list of all the Christmas festivities across the Côte d’Azur and Monaco. Following the success of our first luxury glossy magazine The Best Of summer 2014, we are also producing a winter edition, which will be released in early December. Yes, you could say we are a very busy team here at Mediterraneum Editions. So please spread the word. We want the new RT Magazine to be the hot topic of 2015!
inside... 4 News
14 History
Commemorating the WWI centenary
Riviera and Monaco news in brief Business Person of the Year 2014 Celebrating Monaco’s National Day
16 Art & Culture
Ballets to light up the Monte Carlo stage Peace, love & film making at the AFA
6 Gourmet
November is foodie’s month so take the gourmet fair tour from Saint Raphaël to Monaco!
8 Monaco
Highlights from the Monaco Yacht Show The story behind the new Monte Carlo Pavilions History under the hammer Monte Carlo Jazz Festival
Top events and exhibitions for NovemberDecember’s plus Christmas festivities
20 Community
Mougins School unites with Educating Cambodia Cats of the Mercantour Local clubs and columns
22 Classifieds
12 People & Places
Local businesses, job offers, services and more RT Subscription form
The truth about village living Property series: Val d’Entraunes
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18 Events
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NEWS
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News in Brief
Visa payment by phone launched in Nice
NO. 1 FOR LOCAL NEWS
Riviera and Monaco Visit www.rivieratimes.com, ‘Like’ us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to receive daily breaking news
FRENCH DOCTORS are being urged to stage a protest during the festive period in opposition to the government's plan to cap consultation fees. The action could take place from 24th to 31st December this year, and 6th January 2015. Unions are calling on the government to begin negotiating the terms of new health reforms. FOLLOWING IN the footsteps of 'Niçois olives' and ‘camembert’, 'Provençal thyme' has now been granted protected status, ensuring that only thyme grown using traditional methods in designated areas of Provence can be sold under the name. The decision by France's National Institute for Origin and Quality (INAO) ensures that only thyme produced in the Var, Vaucluse, Bouches du Rhône and parts of the Alpes de Haute Provence, Hautes Alpes, Drome, Ardèche and Gard regions, can use the title.
Hôtel du Cap Eden Roc (pictured above) has been named as the best resort in Europe, Turkey and Russia by Condé Nast Travel Magazine, which also placed it 10th in a list of global resorts. As part of the prestigious Prix Villégiature hotel awards, six further hotels along the coast were recognised, including the Negresco in Nice, which was nominated for having the Best Hotel Bar, while the Metropole in Monte Carlo was nominated for The Best Hotel Restaurant in Europe. Villa Baulieu in Provence won the award for Most Charming Hotel.
AN ENHANCED drug test is being trialled on drivers in the Alpes Maritimes over the next six months. The tests are set to be a huge improvement on current roadside drugs tests, which involve a saliva swab followed by a follow-up blood test in a hospital if the result is positive. The new test consists of two saliva swabs, the first of which will confirm whether or not the driver is intoxicated, and the second will confirm and identify the drug taken. If proven effective, the test will then be rolled out across France.
legislation states that anyone found to be directly provoking a minor to consume excessive amounts of alcohol could be punished with up to a year in prison, as well as fined 15,000 euros. The reform also tackles online intimidation, like the 'neknomination' game which left several people dead after being encouraged to binge drink. Anyone who has encouraged somebody to "drink until drunk" faces six months behind bars, coupled with a fine of 7,500 euros.
BINGE DRINKING has been targeted as part of sweeping new health reforms by the French government. Draft
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PROPERTY SALES in the third quarter of 2014 were relatively stable in the Alpes
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Maritimes. Latest figures by the National Real Estate Federation (FNAIM) reveal a slight drop in the average price per square metre of property, with Antibes falling by 1.74%, Menton by 0.98%, and Cannes by 0.47%. The average price per square metre of resold property in Nice was 4,221 euros, compared to Cannes at 4,678 per sqm. The time period between a property being put up for sale and actually being sold saw Nice again coming off favourably at 91 days. Close behind is Antibes at 95 days, but in stark contrast is Menton and Cannes at 141 and 138 days respectively. Menton, in
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fact, saw a huge increase from the 49 days it achieved in the third quarter of 2013. A RETIREE in Monaco was scammed out of 56,000 euros after being told he had won the lotto. The man received a letter last December informing him that he had 'won' 1,915,810 euros. It also instructed him to send cash to a specified address in Spain in order to claim the money, which he did. Of course, the man never received the huge sum. In October, the Monegasque court granted the victim 35,000 euros in damages.
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Orange Cash is now available in Nice. The app, produced by the global telecommunications giant Orange, will enable owners of Android phones to perform contactless payments in 7,000 locations across the city. The unveiling of Orange Cash closely followed the launch of Apple Pay in the United States, which is a similar initiative for Apple products. It is anticipated that these systems will revolutionise shopping, bypassing the need for credit cards as users can pay wirelessly via their phones. Orange Cash has been launched in partnership with Visa and as a result people will be able to use the application at over a million establishments across Europe and any online sites which are also Visa compatible. Only 34 Android phones are currently programmed to use Orange Cash including certain
handsets from Samsung, HTC, Sony and LG. Despite this, Orange estimates that 24,000 residents of Nice will be able to benefit from the new initiative. For payments of up to 20 euros, customers will simply be required to present their smartphone to the payment station. For added security on purchases above this figure, shoppers will be asked to enter their personal pin in the application. Responding to concerns over security, Orange has assured users that transactions will be protected. "Orange Cash offers the same level of security as bank cards and personal details are totally secure," states the company's website.
NEWS
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RBC Business Person of the Year 2014
Monaco celebrates its day of independence
Recognising French Riviera business excellence
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Amy Blake
Cassandra Tanti
Fresh new image for historic town
François Boutin (Mergers & Acquisitions Consultant), and Dr. Marika Taishoff (International University of Monaco). Interviews of and presentations by the nominees take place in early November, before five finalists are decided for each category: the RBC Business Person of the Year Award and the Best Start Up Award. The RBC Business Person of the Year Awards 2014 gala dinner awards ceremony will be held on Thursday 4th December at 7.30pm at the Marriott Riviera - La Porte De Monaco. The event will be co-hosted by Cassandra Tanti (The Riviera Times) and Mark Dezzani (Riviera Life Tv) and and will feature a guest entertainment spot by the internationally acclaimed Soprano Amy Blake. Winners of the awards will receive a selection of prizes including advertising packages from The Riviera Times and the stunning RBC Crystal Trophies. Last year's winners Greg and Marion Harris, of Côte d'Azur
ominations have closed and the judges are hard at work deciding who will take out the title of RBC Business Person of the Year and Start Up of the Year 2014. This year saw a record number of nominations from an array of different business types in the PACA region, proof that the RBC Business Awards is generating huge interest among the local business community. The event is sponsored by the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, De Verre France, The Riviera Times, AngloInfo, the Marriot Riviera, the Banque Populaire Côte d'Azur, Events By George!, Riviera Life TV, Riviera Woman, the International University of Monaco, the British Association of Menton, the Riviera Polo Club and Make IT Dynamic. The distinguished panel of judges includes Dorothy Foster (Skema Business School) as chairperson, Petra Hall (The Riviera Times), Siegfried Poppe (Marriott Riviera), Jean-
Villas, and Ewan Bird and Bertrand Petit, of Vin De Terre, will also be introduced to the audience. Reservations are now open. A table of 10 is priced at 55 euros per person; individual bookings are 57 euros for members of the Riviera Business Club, the International Club of the Riviera, the British Association of Menton, and guests of sponsors and partners of the event; 62 euros for others. For reservations, call 07 89 03 20 07 or visit the BPOY Awards 2014 page of the RBC website: www.rivierabusinessclub.com.
Each year, Monaco celebrates its National Day on 19th November. The tradition first began with Prince Charles III in 1857, and continues today on the day of Saint Rainier, in part as a tribute to S.A.S. Prince Albert's father. The 18th November will see a grand fireworks display in Port Hercule to initiate the festivities. As is tradition, the following day a Mass of Thanksgiving is celebrated in the Cathedral in the presence of the Prince and officials of
Mark Dezzani
No Finish Line for kids
The town of Biot is sporting an impressive new brand designed to reflect the friendly, vibrant and ambitious nature of the town. The logo was last updated in 2004 and portrayed the historical architecture and diverse landscapes through a collection of colourful pixels, shaped to resemble the town. Since then, the logo has seen three evolutions, reflecting the town's ever-developing nature.
The newest brand consists of bold, capitalised typography in a navy colour, with the 'O' of 'BIOT' serving as the focus of the logo. The words 'la créative' can be seen inside the 'O'. The blue colouring of the letters symbolises "peace, wisdom and freedom", but also the Mediterranean Sea. The pale brown colour of the 'O' is "soft, reassuring and almost maternal", and "is also bound to the clay, silica or stone ovens used for generations by the Biot artisans." The capital letters of the logo represent strength, power and precision.
complete more than 300,000km this year, raising over 345,000 euros to finance projects for children in need. No Finish Line owes its popularity to the fact that it is accessible to all: those who want to run or walk a circuit of 1,400 metres, at any time of the day, over the course of eight days, completing as many kilometres as desired. This year's edition is set to be particularly festive given the special anniversary. w w w. n o f i n i s h l i n e . c o m www.childrenandfuture.com
The annual No Finish Line challenge will take place in the Principality of Monaco from 15th to 23rd November. Since 1999, 56,805 experienced or recreational walkers have completed the circuit of Port Hercule, combining their sporting efforts and generosity for one purpose: to help sick and underprivileged children. The 2015 edition marks the 15th anniversary of No Finish Line, which is organised by the Children and Future association. Around 11,000 participants are expected to
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the Principality. This is followed by a call to arms and a parade on the Place du Palais, where people come together to cheer the Sovereign Prince and His Family. Finally, a gala evening at the Monte Carlo Opera will bring the celebrations to a close. In association with the National Day, on 19th November the Opera ‘Romeo and Juliet’ by Charles Gounod will be performed at the Grimaldi Forum.
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NOVEMBER
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WWW.RIVIERATIMES.COM
is foodie’s month
CLEAR OUT YOUR CUPBOARDS AND YOUR STOMACHS, IT’S TIME TO MAKE WAY FOR THE GREAT GOURMET FAIRS OF THE RIVIERA The colder season is synonymous with deliciously rich comfort foods, devilishly good pastries, irresistible red wines and festive champagnes. After all, that's what all the padded clothing is for, right? Luckily, there are enough gourmet fairs this month for you to stock up your cupboards and to impress family and friends with thoughtful, delectable gifts! Take the gourmet fair tour, from St. Raphaël to Monaco!
Monte Carlo Gastronomy Each day, cooking demonstrations are held by leading chefs from Monaco and the Côte d'Azur, including professionals from the Société des Bains de Mer (SBM).
The Monte Carlo Gastronomy food fair is an opportunity for 'foodies' to rediscover authentic tastes and local products, as well as providing some original ideas for festive tables. Held from 28th November to 1st December in the Fontvieille Big Top, the event showcases the best of gastronomy from France and abroad.
Now in its 19th year, the Monte Carlo Gastronomy fair has built its success on the quality of the products presented - a result of careful exhibitor selection. But it is also well respected for the diversity on offer.
Visitors get ready. Tasting is not only allowed, it's encouraged! Giant plump Italian olives, melt-in-your-mouth Pata Negra, golden Tuscan olive oil, rich balsamic vinegar from Carpi, Alsace apple juice, cheese from the Alpes Pyrenees, Moroccan spices, cocktails from Monaco's finest barmen, French caviar, artisan rhums, truffles and the finest wines from Bordeaux. The list goes on and on.
In addition to the produce, the fair will offer a wide variety of events including the 'Slow Food Grand Prize' (Grand Prix Slow Food), under the auspices of Slow Food Monaco Riviera Côte d'Azur, and the Food Writers' Prize (Prix des Chroniqueurs Gastronomiques), which recognises wine and champagne producers.
The Café de Paris even serves up its famous Crêpe Suzette in a hugely popular pop-up restaurant, where oysters and other delights are also on offer.
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Entry is just five euros, free admission on weekdays from midday to 2pm, and free for under 12s. www.mc-gastronomie.com
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Photos: Monte Carlo Gastronomy
Salon du Palais Gourmand Cagnes sur Mer & St. Raphaël
A restaurant is on site for those who would like a sitdown meal as well as tastings on the run.
Take a gastronomic Tour de France with the Salon du Palais Gourmand in the giant halls of the Hippodrome in Cagnes sur Mer from 7th to 11th November. Over five scrumptious days more than 300 exhibitors will be tempting the tastebuds of thousands of visitors. Stock up on local specialities like buttery brioche from the Moulin de Païou, Mediterranean spices, champagne, foie gras from Limousine, cheese, wine, and more wine. Not surprisingly, the Salon du Palais Gourmand is known as the 'fair to make your mouth water'.
Don't forget that as autumn settles in for the long haul, mushroom harvests are flourishing. Mix mountainside fungi with earthy truffles, all washed down with a homemade cider from the north of France or a sparkling champagne from the region's ultra-valuable fields. Crowned France's - and Europe's - best sommelier, Franck Thomas and his wide selection of vintages will appeal to wine-lovers. The professional wine master will be offering free tastings and advice throughout the event.
From eastern Alsace and the agriculturally rich Vallée du Rhône to the crisp vineyard offerings of Languedoc and the Atlantic-infused tastes of the Vendée, the Salon du Palais Gourmand celebrates the diversity and finesse of authentic French cuisine.
Entrance is eight euros and parking at the Hippodrome Côte d'Azur is free for visitors.
It is so popular, in fact, that St. Raphaël also welcomes the fair from 28th November to 1st December, when over 100 stall holders will be showcasing their wares.
salonpalaisgourmand.com.
Salon Saveurs & Terroirs mandelieu la napoule It began with Corsica in 2011, followed by the West Indies in 2012 and the Swiss ski resort Crans Montana in 2013. This year, the gastronomic honour goes to Brioude, a commune in the Auvergne region of south central France.
Like chef Raimbault, the spirit of the fair is to ignite a passion for experimenting with local ingredients. Throughout the weekend, organised shows demonstrating how to add flair to a humdrum dish and spice up your recipe book will be run by chefs and professionals from the Var and the Alpes Maritimes, led by Raimbault.
The Salon Saveurs & Terroirs will celebrate its theme territory from 14th to 16th November by welcoming local producers and their gastronomic specialties, while the Tourist Office will showcase all the heritage and attractions that the city of Brioude and its surrounding region have to offer.
But if your cooking is already top notch, head to the 'Art de la Table' area and discover how a simple stylish edge can revive the dinner table. From prestigious brands of cutlery and classic porcelain platters to luxurious napkins and sparkling vases, you'll find everything you need to recreate the ambience of an illustrious establishment in your home.
The event is held under the patronage of twoMichelin star chef Stéphane Raimbault, who has been running the restaurant L'Oasis, in Mandelieu La Napoule, with his brothers Antoine and François for 20 years. Visitors can be assured of a superb selection of French wines, champagnes and spirits at the fair, representing the championed regions of Alsace, Bourgogne, Beaujolais, Bordeaux, Provence, and the Loire, along with a number of Italian and Swiss specialities.
Entrance is five euros and free parking is just a quick walk from the Centre Expo Congrès. www.salon-gastronomie.com.
Salon du Chocolat & Saveurs nice
Wine and cheese aside, one of the other great things about living in France are the desserts. While the French have undoubtedly mastered the classic pastries - éclairs, petit fours, mille-feuille, pain au chocolat - in recent years, French pâtissiers have shot to stardom for their artistic and innovative creations, joining the top ranks of France's celebrity chefs.
pastry chefs, but also welcomes those from neighbouring countries like Luxembourg, Italy and Switzerland. From 14th to 17th November, visitors will be able to sample chocolates, biscuits, ice cream, but also salmon, foie gras, caviar, champagne, liquor and many other mouth-watering products. It will be a feast for the eyes as well, with artists showcasing their breathtaking chocolate sculptures.
So for four days of chocolate heaven, the Salon du Chocolat & Saveurs d'Exception unites some of the region's best pâtissiers in one place - Julian Dugourd from La Chevre d'Or, Vincent Delhomme from La Table de Patrick Raingeard at Cap Estel, Pâtisserie Lac's Pascal Lac - to name but a few.
Saturday 15th November will see the 'Cake Mania' baking competition for amateurs. The winner of the best chocolate cake will receive an Air France flight, while 2nd prize will take home a 100 euro shopping voucher. People wishing to take part must email mg@nicexpo.org or contact by post Nicexpo Palais des Expositions 06359 Nice cedex 4 by no later than 12th November.
Following a successful debut in 2013, this year's event will once again dominate Nice's Promenade des Anglais with tastings, exhibitions, meetings, exchanges between professionals, events and even a bake off. The fair is not only restricted to French
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FOR DAILY BREAKING NEWS
MONACO YACHT SHOW
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Quality over quantity
his year’s Monaco Yacht Show saw a record number of 115 superyachts on display. And while the 510 exhibitors noticed a slight decline in visitor numbers, from 33,730 in 2013 to 32,921, plenty of praise was given for the higher quality of contacts made and the greater presence of boat owners and potential customers. All of this was no accident. The organisers had steered the MYS in a different direction to attract a new clientele, bringing the world of luxury yachts even closer to them. “We have campaigned strongly in Shanghai, among many other areas, targeting the Chinese elite, and they were invited alongside VIPs to Monaco, facilitating contact between exhibitors and potential clients,” revealed show director Gaëlle Tallarida. Considering that tickets cost 150 euros per person this year, the number of visitors was impressive. And, like every year, our readers were very lucky… they received free tickets from The Riviera Times and were welcomed to join us at our stand for a glass of Domaine de l’Anglade wine, a Weihenstephaner beer, or a XAN wellness drink – which was a particular hit at the show. The Monaco Yacht Show will return from 23rd to 6th September 2015 for its 25th anniversary, and to celebrate this momentous occasion a new configuration of the event will be presented, in particular an increased capacity to welcome megayachts of up to 120m long. So lock in the date now, and see you there! 1) Is Lufthansa now in the yachting business? Not at all. As a partner of the Monaco Yacht Show and The Riviera Times, the airline was elegantly promoting its flagship ‘Lufthansa First Class’ 2) RT Chief Editor Petra Hall with Lufthansa Promotion Director for France Caroline de Caigny 3) VIP visit to the RT stand: Monaco’s Interior Minister Paul Masseron and his wife 4) Monaco residents and long-term reader Diethelm Reschke and friend stop by the RT stand for a chat 5) An international crowd at the MYS; always exciting 6) Christian Hausser, Managing Partner of Dahm International, with RT Marketing Director Petra Benzing 7) Claes and Kerstin Tietze, two of the first subscribers to the RT 8) Personal shoppers Ursula Waschnig (left) and Sonja Petersen of Fabulous Fairies in Monaco 9) The Xan wellness drinks were a big hit at the yacht show 10) Karine Balagny (left), Dominic Thurlow-Wood and Aila Stöckmann: motivated members of the RT team 11) Lisanne and Frans Faassen, readers from the Netherlands who came to meet the team 12) Honorary Chancellor of Austria in Monaco Monika Braun Corniglion (left) also dropped in for a chat, with her friend
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Monte Carlo Pavilions Why Monaco chose ultra modern over comfortable classic Architect Chérif Jahlan has revealed why futuristic pavilions were chosen for the Boulingrins Gardens and not a more traditional design in keeping with the iconic Belle Époque buildings of the Casino Square. The pebble-shaped retail stores were inaugurated on 4th October, to a mixed response from the public. Development projects in the Sporting d'Hiver and the Hôtel de Paris required the fashion boutiques in the centre of Monaco to be relocated. As renovation work is only due to be completed in 2018, the contents of 20 luxury stores were transferred into five temporary pebble-shaped pavilions, located just metres from the Place du Casino. This exciting venture was launched by the Société des Bains de Mer, with the help of architects Richard Martinet and Chérif Jahlan. As the project is located in the Boulingrins Gardens, they initially planned for the new buildings to fit in with the architectural style of the surrounding environment, which is that of the Belle Époque. However, it soon became clear that building a temporary pavilion structure to resemble the architecture of the neighbouring Casino and the Hôtel de Paris would be difficult. "This new realisation ended with us having to rethink the project and start afresh," said Jahlan. Therefore, they decided to create a rupture with the past, opting for structures that would provide a contrast with the classical rationality
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and linear order of the nearby buildings. A futuristic style was adopted for the pavilions to be emblematic of a progressive and eco-friendly attitude which the Principality is keen to promote. The pavilions have been built in a pedestrianonly zone, and access to the Place du Casino can be gained through a path snaking between the five pavilions and surrounding foliage. People with limited mobility are also able to use the path. "Pedestrians will be able to escape the urban environment by accessing the Place du Casino through the Petite Afrique gardens, which has been home to many unique and extraordinary plants, flowers and trees for more than a century," revealed Jahlan. Another issue was the integration of the pavilions into the urban landscape of Monaco. This was carried out by the award-winning landscape designer Jean Mus, chosen because of his impeccable knowledge of the Mediterranean land and his ability to reconstruct spaces whilst respecting the environment and the historical memory of the site. His ancestors were the great landscape gardeners
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of the previous century who revived the gardens of the Côte d'Azur and the Riviera. The pebble-shaped structures have been surrounded with exotic species like palms so that the area can be easily assimilated into the neighbouring Petite Afrique gardens. Due to the construction of the temporary pavilions and the surrounding gardens, some of the trees in the Boulingrins Gardens had to be moved. Around 90 prized plants were therefore dug out and relocated to a nursery where they will live for the next five years. The pavilions may live on long after the reno-
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vations works are completed as well. They have been built in a way that will easily allow them to be deconstructed and moved elsewhere. But this is easier said than done. According to the architect, "The ground on which the pavilions currently stand is sloping, meaning that each doorway has been constructed at a different altimetry, so, when they are moved, the terrain on which they are reconstructed will have to be changed to resemble the land on which they were first built."
Rhian Williams
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History under the hammer
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Monaco sells its Napoleonic collection and pieces from the Hôtel de Paris
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he Prince's Palace of Monaco will be selling its collection of Napoleonic memorabilia, amassed by Prince Louis II, at auction this month. Napoleon Bonaparte was a distant relative of the Grimaldi family due to their mutual Florentine connections, and the pending sale has collector circles in a buzz. The auction will be held in Fontainebleau from 15th to 16th November and will be conducted by the French auction house Osenat. The collection is truly unique due to the variety of manuscripts, weapons and paintings all pertaining to Napoleon I. One of the major lots will be a black felt hat which is expected to fetch between 300,000 and 400,000 euros due, in part, to the fact that the previous time a Napoleonic hat went under the hammer was in 1969. A diamond encrusted sword which originally belonged to Tsar Alexander II of Russia is expected to be another popular item and commands a price estimate of 600,000 to 800,000 euros. It is not surprising that this sale has piqued the interest of historical collectors across the globe, however it has also been met with opposition from some organisations. "I regret that the contents of the collection are being dispersed," the head of the Remembering Napoleon Society, Jean Etevenaux, told the AFP. Many commentators believe that such an impressive collection should remain intact to preserve its historical value. Undoubtedly, such a sale will attract a lot of attention as there is already a healthy market for Napoleonic memorabilia. According Jean-Pierre Osenat, coorganiser of the sale, "the market is open, active and international. Napoleon is an icon who inspires a very varied clientele." But the Napolen memorabilia isn't the only thing
going under the hammer in Monaco. The SBM has decided to sell some of the furniture from its iconic Hôtel de Paris. The auction, to be undertaken by Artcurial, will take place at the 150-year-old hotel from 25th to 4 28th January 2015, and will be preceded by four days of exhibition. "This exclusive sale represents the first phase of our renovation project," said Luca Allegri, CEO of the Hôtel de Paris. "Our commitment to the mythical story of the Hôtel de Paris is unwavering, which is why we would like to share this rich emotion with our customers." "The sale of furniture from Monaco's most iconic palace will be a major event!" added François Tajan, co-president of Artcurial. "Monaco is synonymous with grandeur, history, prestige and lifestyle: all good reasons for fans around the world to participate in this exceptional sale and take home some of the magic of Monte Carlo." More than 3,000 lots will be offered at auction, including furniture from the entrance hall, restaurants, rooms - including that from Winston Churchill's suite, serving dishes and embroidered linen. The auction catalogue will be available from December 2014. DominicThurlow-Wood
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1) Napoleon Bonaparte was a distant relative of the Grimaldi family. 2) A detailed plate from the Hôtel de Paris, photo Monte Carlo SBM/Christian Lari. 3) Exquisite cradle offered by Emperor Napoleon to his adopted daughter Stephanie de Beauharnais, fine trimmings in gilded bronze, photo: Bury. 4) Napoleon’s felt hat is expected to fetch upto 400,000 euros alone, photo: Bury.
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NO. 1 FOR LOCAL NEWS
MONACO
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Monte Carlo Jazz Festival
Robin McKelle. Photo Jacob Blickenstaff
One of the most striking aspects of jazz music is the sheer variety within the genre. It is almost impossible to pinpoint the attributes of an international jazz because influences range so widely from country to country. This November the Monte Carlo Opera will host its 9th edition of the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival and will aim to take the audience on a voyage to discover jazz music around the globe. The festival is set to open on 25th November on an evening which will provide a distinctly European feel. The Sylvain Luc and Stefano di Battista Quartet will perform their guitar and saxophone based jazz as a background for two of the most renowned soloists in the genre. Also performing will be the trio Galliano, Lagrène and Lockwood who offer a unique blend of the accordion guitar and violin during their shows. On 26th November Ibrahim Maalouf will be performing his own brand of jazz music. Maalouf was born in Lebanon but spent most of his childhood in Paris where his father taught him the art of the trumpet. As a result of these diverse influences, Maalouf's music resides
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somewhere between traditional Arabian sounds and modern, western jazz-funk. On Thursday 27th November the festival will take on an international flavour with performances from Ceu, a Brazilian star, and El Gusto, a North African jazz group. The latter comprises an orchestra of 20 musicians playing 'Chaabi' music, which has strong Andalusian and Flamenco influences. The opportunity to see an impressive performance of 'The Casbah Blues' will be a rare treat for audience members. The following evening, the acclaimed singersongwriter Chris Rea will be performing his best known hits before American jazz vocalist Robin McKelle transports spectators to Memphis, the city widely considered to be the home of the blues. The American theme will continue on Sunday 29th November. The closing night of the 2014 festival will be graced by the threetime Grammy Award winner Dee Dee Bridgewater and Curtis Stigers, who has previously performed with the likes of Elton John and Rod Stewart.
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PEOPLE & PLACES
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Village living
CRT Riviera Côte d'Azur / Alain Hanel
Fairytale history, feuding locals, hidden treasures and serenity worthy of monks
They are called
l’arrière-pays' and there are many of them: between the crevices of the hills, perched on the middle mountains, or spread over valleys between the ridges. They may all appear to be variations on the same theme but to a 'local', or a
provençal connoisseur, they differ in the most subtle character and
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identity, both historically and culturally. Photo: Saint Martin Vésubie
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places, especially when pollution, heat and noise put a strain on stamina. But it takes a daring and adventurous type to venture up the tortuous mountain roads for longer than a picnic en plein air. And yet, if only the time was taken to get to know these picturesque villages, the green and cultivated valleys, the undulating hills and the thick forests, the art of bien-être would be discovered. There are native herbs to be gathered in the spring, wild flowers to be plucked in the summer, and chestnuts and mushrooms to be picked in the autumn. Winter is for walking or hiking in the brisk mistral wind blowing from the north and then sitting by the fire with a hot drink. There are colours, fragrances and flavours to be appreciated; medieval chapels, fortresses and water springs to be uncovered. The hidden Provence full of sun-bathed beauties, seemingly so far and yet so near. It may not reveal itself on first sight but with a little inquisitive persistence it will unveil its treasures even to the most incredulous wayfarer. There are those who have made a meticulous study of these villages; some have bought second homes and visit them very rarely, others drive out to enjoy a relaxing spring day. But not many will live in them all the time as they guard something that disturbs people even more than the clatter of the cities: silence. Angela Baggi
what they were about but they stick to it unrelentingly, generation after generation, as to make peace would mean for one of them to lose face and that they can’t do. Newcomers are invited to take sides; they manifest this invitation in a cryptic rather than in an explicit manner, but they are not offended if new arrivals ignore them or elegantly pretend not to understand. As well as there being two clans in the same village, there are often old squabbles between villages, usually the neighbouring one. The closer they are to each other, the more likely they are to be in conflict. There are interesting discoveries to be made. For example, higher up on the mountain of a small picturesque village called La Rochette there is a Buddhist Temple where people come from all over to do weekly meditation retreats. Some stay longer. To the villagers it's another world, one they only look up at. Not one of them has been to see it. It's like a mysterious realm, an Archenland where mortal creatures cannot penetrate. Its existence is relatively unknown as it's not advertised anywhere and the path leading to it is bumpy and rough, nor is it possible to stumble across it as the road is a dead end. People arrive at Nice Airport, they are picked up by a monk in a rugged four-wheel drive and taken straight up to the Temple. The fact that there is a village is a mere anecdote. People from the Riviera dream of these
These hinterland villages are full of hidden treasures and secrets. Some have been the home of famous writers and artists; others still show evidence of a rich noble history or Templar vestiges and even if very little, or nothing, remains today, they are nevertheless imbued in legends, history and colourful chronicles. Pilgrims and lonely travellers have passed through them; knights and warriors have fought to defend them, and builders have ruined their tools in order to erect them. Quite a few of these villages have passed hands many times through the centuries. For example, Levens originally belonged to Ligurian tribes then Roman nobles, Catalonian Counts, the Capetians House of Anjou, a Tourin doctor, the Grimaldi family, the Savoy Duchy, and so on. Provence has been the stage of countless dramas with Celts, Romans, Germans, Italians and French players, and its villages reveal this diversified history in their own unique and particular way. Most streets have been renamed but every now and then a quaint address like Rue de Trois Oiseaux or Place de la Porte Fermée is stumbled upon. One thing most of these villages have in common is that even today they are divided into two factions, or clans which, like the Montagues and the Capulets, are still at war with each other. Their feuds go back to the distant past and most of them can't even remember
ll along the Côte d'Azur, these villages are sprinkled on the north stretch of alpine land and some can be reached in just half an hour. Local people say their village is unlike any other. Naturellement. There is a difference in the pace at which things - anything - moves, and don't expect to engage in complex philosophical conversations with the local inhabitants, as exchange will most likely boil down to the same rudimentary vocabulary: 'ça va? Oui, ça va. Il fait beau, n'est pas? Oui, il fait beau. Bon, allez, bonne journée. Merci, vous aussi.' The one attribute these village inhabitants share is curiosity. They may not reveal anything about themselves, but they want to know everything about everyone else. They often sit in the village square, sometimes with a dog at their feet, perhaps a beret on their head or a walking stick in their hand, and they observe the world. In fact, almost everything takes place in the square. Even a neighbour who's lived next to them for several years is not invited inside their house. The square is their public living room and it's a peculiar southern characteristic, more specifically a Provençal one. They will discuss the most intimate details of their lives and - even more desirable - that of other people, without any restraint whatsoever. They know everything about everyone and if they don't, they simply invent it.
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PROPERTY
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Val d'Entraunes Isolated and untouched
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here is off the beaten track - and there is off the beaten track. We have been looking at property in the upper reaches of the four Alpes Maritimes valleys surrounding the Mercantour National Park - by definition rural. This month's destination, the Val d'Entraunes, makes previous ones look positively suburban. The four villages lie in the upper Var valley north west of Guillaumes. Châteauneuf d'Entraunes sits up off the main road, the Route des Grandes Alpes, at 1,300 metres overlooking the valley; its hamlet of Tourres lies at the foot of the Cime de Pal. Back on the main road Villeneuve d'Entraunes, at 900 metres, is surrounded by large orchards and, higher up, its hamlets of Bantes and Enaux were home to important cereal farms in times past. St Martin d'Entraunes lies among verdant meadows; its various hamlets are testament to its strong pastoral heritage. Finally, we reach the narrow lanes and little cobble stone squares of Entraunes. You find small old terraced village houses (rarely with outside space, perhaps a balcony), some of which have been converted into apartments, small farms, and chalets, explains Pascal Ginesy of Maurin Immobilier. Village houses, often over a century old, have been "more or less renovated" over the decades. If it is "less", you could pay 50,000 euros and if it is "more" around 150,000 euros for a complete restoration. Apartments in an old converted house start from 50,000 euros. Old farms around the hamlets may be only slightly more spacious - you rarely find very large farms here - but can come with several hectares of land. Prices depend on proximity to the hamlet and access, particularly in winter. Although roads are well maintained, if your property lies at the end of a three kilometre track it won't have the same value as one with good access year round, explains Mr Ginesy.
Prices range from around 200,000 euros for a farm requiring work up to 300,000 euros for a renovated one. Chalets dating from the 1960s have been built on the village peripheries. Generally they are of concrete construction, although you are starting to see some timber, he says. Mediumsized chalets of around 100sqm are negotiated between 200,000 and 300,000 euros; smaller properties - 70 to 80sqm - cost 150,000 to 200,000 euros. Particularly popular is Estenc, the last hamlet in the valley, in an exceptional setting below the Col de la Cayolle close to the source of the Var. "You are really at the foot of the Mercantour there, it's very preserved." Estenc also has a real "upper mountain" ambiance, rather unique in the area, he says. For ‘food for the body’, inhabitants head down to Guillaumes; for ‘food for the soul’ head to the baroque parish church at Châteauneuf d'Entraunes, which has a fine 16th century altar piece by Niçois primitif artist François Bréa, who also painted the one in the St Martin d'Entraunes church, classified as an historic monument in 1926. The Val d'Entraunes is the most outlying valley of the Alpes Maritimes; it is this untouched and preserved environment which attracts buyers, primarily of second homes, says Mr Ginesy. Employment may be scarce but the magnificent mountain setting also appeals to nature-loving young retirees - and property here is cheaper than in the Vésubie and Tinée valleys. There is serious hiking and gentler walks on your doorstep; and in winter cometh the snow and cross county skiing at Estenc and Val Pelens, which also has lifts for a bit of downhill (otherwise head for Valberg east of Guillaumes.) Carolyn Reynier
M O R T G A G E Financial Institution
en ok Sp
Contact
G, F DK E, S, N
Thomas Nielsen Camilla Greiersen Camille Marne
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C O N D I T I O N S Description
Tel / Fax.
The various credit solutions are a part of our Wealth Management program. Please contact one of our local advisers in Cannes to see what a Wealth Plan can do for you and your future. Wealth management and life style planning through a 360 degree holistic approach established with your personal adviser based upon your current situation and future requirements to relocation plans, inheritance, taxation, investment, asset portfolio management, and daily Netbank services.
Tel: +33 (0)4 93 39 39 00 Fax: +33 (0)4 93 39 39 02 Email:info@jyskebank.fr www.jbpb.fr
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Above: Châteauneuf d'Entraunes lies at an altitude of 1,300 metres on a secondary road off the route des Grandes Alpes; photo credit: CRT Riviera Côte d'Azur/Georges Véran. Top left: Located in a hamlet outside Villeneuve d'Entraunes, with mountain views, this renovated three-bedroom duplex apartment (cleaning up required) with independent entrance and garden is on the market for 119,000 euros; Maurin Immobilier.
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216 J 25 © Conseil général 13 / Archives départementales, Marc Michalzcak - Tous droits réservés
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HISTORY
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The First World War
centenary THE CÔTE D’AZUR REMEMBERS General m Archives obilization ord , Marc M er ichalzcak : 4-14 J 473-2 © G - All righ ts reserv eneral Council 13 / Dep ed artmenta l
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n a trend that began in 1860, the French Riviera was a highly attractive location for crowned heads, aristocrats and other noblemen and women, who came to enjoy mild winters and Mediterranean delights. But in 1914 the Great War began, and the Côte d'Azur found itself welcoming a different kind of crowd … wounded soldiers and refugees. That year alone, the Riviera saw 150,000 winter visitors. The First World War clearly left its mark on the Côte d'Azur and the Alpes Maritimes. Many men left to fight; the Alpes Maritimes lost 6,915 of its citizens. But the region bounced back, in typical Rivierian way.
To commemorate 100 years since the beginning of the WW1, there have been a number of photographic and film exhibitions, war memorial and fort tours, books and publications available to the public. France's proud history in defending its people, and Europe, has been greatly remembered. And the memories live on, in various letters, photographs and personal belongings - objects either knowingly or unknowingly stored by family members over the decades. To mark the anniversary, local French newspaper the Var Matin put out a call for these objects to be collected. What they received was overwhelming … watches, pens, ashtrays, letters, cards, ID cards, utensils, drawings, obituaries, perfume bottles, souvenirs. They also received hundreds of letters from readers, revealing their personal stories of the Great War.
tating message from Lucien Langeraert: "My last thoughts are with you" - he never made it back from Minaucourt. "My grandmother lived with her grief her entire life," revealed Monegasque Yvette Vanucci-Die. "Although I never knew my grandfather, my grandmother told me that he went into battle with a flower in the barrel of an upright gun."
Newspaper clippings and photographs document how, on Saturday 1st August 1914, the first French warships from Toulon were sent in to battle. "Nothing is more impressive than these large grey masses," wrote navy mechanic Antonin Bach, overwhelmed by the sight.
France is marking the 100th anniversary year with many different publications, commemorations, and exhibitions (see opposite page), some of which will continue well into 2015. Tours of forts and Remembrance Trails are available, as battlefields have become tourist destinations.
Following the Russian Revolution in 1917, many Eastern Europeans sought refuge on the Côte d'Azur. Wounded Americans, key players in the Liberation, also came to convalesce, particularly in 1918, and the main towns organised YMCAs to accommodate this influx of new visitors.
Thanks to the efforts of many, the memories of World War I and its heroes are still very much alive, one century on. And lest we ever forget. Cassandra Tanti/Rolf Liffers
Soon after, professionals on the French Riviera asserted that their distance from the battle lines justified the fact that they should continue
216 J 25 © Conseil général 13 / Archives départementales, Marc Michalzcak - Tous droits réservés
From hotels to hospitals
René Goujon from Juan les Pins - just 16 years of age - excitedly talked about "la volonté d'en decoudre avec les Boches" (doing battle with the Germans). On 2nd August, twins Louis and Jean Piozza from Nice rushed to the front line, shoulder to shoulder. Their slogan: "Des vrais niçois, il reste n'en plus beaucoup" (the true Niçois, there are not many left). In Roquebrune Cap Martin, surgeon Charles Guilleux wrote in his diary: "Hélas, vient le temps des combats" (Alas, the time of fighting has come). Lieutenant Roubert soothed his crying goddaughter Marcelle by saying: "Don't worry, the good fairies will protect me."
The palaces, hotels and casinos in the tourist resorts of the Côte d'Azur, where royalty and other wealthy aristocrats and millionaires from all over the world opted to spend their holidays, were transformed overnight. On 3rd August 1914, just one day after the general mobilisation, the British owner of the Balmoral Hotel in Menton made his establishment available for military purposes. The grand hotels of the French Riviera soon followed suit. In Nice, the prestigious Hotel Regina in Cimiez, adored by Queen Victoria, was commandeered and turned into a hospital. On the Promenade
Pierette Garcia from Le Luc received a devas-
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Exhibitions and Publications
Russians and Americans
On 20th April 1916, the first Russian troops landed in the port of Marseille to help a relatively sparsely populated France. Around 9,000 (increasing later to 45,000) soldiers from distant Moscow sat along La Canebière, the historic high street in the old quarter of Marseille. The war was simmering in their own country.
World War I, which began on 28th July 2014, was in full swing.
Although occasionally frowned upon, the Côte d'Azur continued to organise festivities to fill the days and evenings of visitors from abroad. Artists found a pristine haven on the French Riviera, and cinema studios were also created during the War. Some films were even shot here during the time, including 'J'accuse' in Cagnes sur Mer.
It was a similar scene in Cannes at the famous Carlton Hotel, the elaborate Eden Roc at Cap d'Antibes, and the Grand Hotel in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. The noblest hotels were transformed from Beaulieu and Monaco to Fréjus and Hyères. It wasn't long before all the beds were taken, as more than a thousand wounded and sick were brought in daily.
In early April 1915, the first Senegalese troops arrived in Fréjus and Menton, where they stayed until orders came to take over at the front. It was the same for Algerians and Moroccans.
Testaments
their tourist activity in winter. Some hotels were therefore decommissioned, despite the lack of personnel and difficulties in obtaining supplies. In order to offset restrictions on food, the hinterland and mountains became a larder for the local population and family gardens were filled with produce.
des Anglais, the first casualties were also sent to the Ruhl Casino and the iconic Negresco. The Royal Hotel, the Westminister, the Grand Hotel, Imperial Hotel … thousands of beds were set up in anticipation.
Medical officer Marc Clergue from Antibes wrote to his wife: "My dear little Élise, I'm bored terribly in this foggy Siberia." Thousands of family members suffered through oppressive boredom and fear, their despair crochet on silk scarves and scribbled in open letters that would never find their intended reader.
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Top left: Soldiers are treated In the operating theatre of a makeshift hospital in Marseille. Left: On 2nd August 1914 France ordered the general mobilisation of its citizens. Around 800,000 men prepared to fight. Below right: A convoy of wounded arrive at the auxiliary
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HISTORY
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Exhibitions Until 28th November Antibes Antibes, la Guerre Mondiale 1ère In the city archives. Weekdays 8.30am-12pm & 2pm-5pm www.antibesjuanlespins.com
Archives Municipales de Cannes – cote 37S
Until 13th November Cagnes sur Mer Cagnes et les Cagnois durant la Grande Guerre Espace culturel. Weekdays 9am-10pm www.cagnes-tourisme.com Until 16th November Tourrette Levens La Guerre 14-18 Espace culturel. 2pm-6pm www.tourrette-levens.org 4th-29th November Antibes La guerre au féminin Albert Camus Library www.mediatheque-casa.fr
Many hotels in the Côte d'Azur, like the Gallia Hotel in Cannes, as well as casinos and private villas were transformed into auxiliary hospitals for the wounded, sick and refugees.
4th-29th November Villeneuve Loubet Correspondences amoureuses Pôle Culturel Auguste Escoffier www.villeneuve-tourisme.com
Cake was forbidden during the war, as the poster on the right shows. By September 1916, France had virtually no more sugar available for purchase. In January 1917, the government declared that carnets de sucre must be used, regulating the output of sugar. Other food items, including flour, were also controlled, as well utilities like coal, gas and electricity.
8th-16th November Saint Jean Cap Ferrat Hommage à nos poilus Espace Neptune www.saintjeancapferrat-tourisme.fr Until 2nd February, 2015 Biot Ah que la guerre est cubiste! Fernand Léger et la Grande Guerre National Fernand Léger Museum. 10am-5pm, closed on Tuesdays www.musee-fernandleger.fr
Carnet de sucre: 10 R 49 © Conseil général 13 / Archives départementales, Marc Michalzcak - Tous droits réservés
Affiche : 10 R 126© Conseil général 13 / Archives départementales, Marc Michalzcak - Tous droits réservés
6 Fi 4664 © Conseil général 13 / Archives départementales, Marc Michalzcak - Tous droits réservés
Until 30th June, 2015 Cannes 1914-1918: La Grande Guerre, vue de l'arrière In the city archives. Weekdays 1pm-5.30pm www.cannes.com Until 20th September, 2015 Draguignan Semailles ... mitraille ... Retrouvailles? Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires
Remembrance Tours
For information on the tours, vist http://www.cheminsdememoire.gouv.fr/
Archives Municipales de Cannes – cote 2Fi1959
Left: Soldiers on the beach in Cannes La Bocca. More than 700 men from Cannes never returned from the First World War. This coastal strip was ideal for nursing the sick and injured, because of its distance to the front and the numerous hotels-hospitals.
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Left: On 20th April 1916, the first Russian troops landed in the port of Marseille where they stayed until they were sent north to the front. In total, 45,000 troops were sent to France throughout the War.
The photos on these pages were kindly provided by the Cannes Municipal Archives and the Departmental Archives of the Bouches du Rhône in Marseille.
Femmes dans une usine : 31 Fi 4 © Conseil général 13 / Archives départementales, Marc Michalzcak - Tous droits réservés
Above: In their absence, women took over the mens’ jobs. Factories were converted into ammunition production lines, like the one above in Marseille.
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ART & CULTURE
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J. Robisco
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Ballets to light up the
Monte Carlo stage For all styles of dance, music and creativity
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he Monte Carlo Ballet Company, the Monaco Dance Forum and the Princess Grace Academy have worked together to offer you some spectacular treats this festive period. The season will offer a rich variety of dance productions, reflecting the philosophy of the ballet and its director Jean-Christophe Maillot that there is a place for all styles of dance. The opening event will be a production by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Yabin Wang, a show that fuses Oriental inspiration with Western tradition, and thematises the boundaries between life and death by exploring our origins and destinies. The performance features the Chinese dancer Yabin Wang, who was made famous in the choreographic sequence in the film The House of Flying Daggers. The musical score reflects the multiple sources of inspiration for the show, by featuring pieces from a variety of different origins, including African, Indian, Chinese and Polish. The next production explores the relationship between dance and other art forms. Inspired by Kleist's novel On the Marionette Theatre, the plot follows a dancer who visits a marionette theatre and becomes fascinated by the puppets who dance weightlessly, freed from gravity. In the show itself, a woman appears on stage with strings attached to her arms and legs, creating a wonderfully novel experience for the audience
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that is sure to be remembered. Other productions to grace the stages of Monte Carlo include a show by La Veronal Company that is set in Siena. The show was inspired by the Tuscan Renaissance, and again exemplifies mixing dance with other artistic forms, including literature and visual art. Emanuel Gat's Plage Romantique, a musical comedy which combines vocal scores, music, text and dance, also offers an entertaining demonstration of the links between different performance styles. There will be pieces that have been created closer to home, as the Monte Carlo Ballet Company will perform an adaption of Goethe's Faust, choreographed by Jean-Christophe Maillot and accompanied by the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and the choir of the Monte Carlo Opera. The audience is invited to follow the protagonist's impossible quest for eternal youth and a life of pleasure. Rolph Sachs' stage design coupled with Philippe Guillotel's exquisite costumes and accompanied by Franz Liszt's delightful music score promises an aesthetic as well as auditory adventure. The most impatiently awaited event of the season is the Bolshoi Ballet's performance of Maillot's adaption of The Taming of the Shrew which premiered in Moscow in July 2014. It is the first time that the Russian ballet company has
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explore this relationship further, there will be a chance to attend the annual conference hosted by the École Supérieure d'Arts Plastiques de la Ville de Monaco (ESAP), which is open to the public. This event will allow participants to listen to a plethora of voices who work in the dance industry, including artists, historians, art critics, stage designers and choreographers. www.balletsdemontecarlo.com Rhian Williams
allowed a foreign choreographer to create a narrative ballet for its dancers for an entire evening so this production marks an exciting development in the history of the company. The Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra will provide the musical accompaniment. Many productions in this programme explore the fascinating relationship between dance and other art forms as well as the mutual inspirations drawn between them. So, for those who wish to
Jacques Gantié’s Restaurant recommendations Jacques Gantié is the author of the only regional restaurant guide Guide Gantié, which is available in French in hardcopy, and electronically in English. It contains hundreds of great insider tips.
YOSHI Joël Robuchon's "other" table. At the Hôtel Metropole the most-starred chef in the world has created Yoshi (goodness). A Zen and contemporary pavilion in the hotel's courtyard, intimate table with 40 covers, pure-line decor, wood, mirrors, bay windows overlooking a Japanese garden and, of course, a sushi bar. Takeo Yamazaki worked for Robuchon in Tokyo for 14 years. Accessible at lunch through bento boxes - three specials at good prices to become acquainted with sushi, California rolls, spiced sea vegetable salad with sesame, or black cod marinated in miso soup - but at its best in
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the evenings. Broth with coddled egg; snow crab salad; shrimp with kombu consommé; sushi and nigiri livened up with the best wasabi; yazu with apple confit and cinnamon cream... served up in the "keiseki" spirit a frugal meal served during the tea ceremony. Lunch menus 29, 49 & 59 euros, dinner 139 & 199 euros. MONACO 4 ave de la Madone Hôtel Métropole Monte Carlo Tel: 00377 93 15 13 13 www.metropole.com
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Peace, love & film making angel film awards
Film Awards have the capability of pushing films like Arlene a little bit further," said Mike Colquhoun. "We hope to get our short film distributed, to have it screened at other festivals."
during an event, dropping him 21 metres into the ring below. "This film shows that you can come out of a shocking situation and turn it into a positive," said Rosana, who added that she was looking forward to meeting the inspirational woman behind the documentary and the foundation.
Illustrator Daria Jabenko developed 'Arlene' using sketches created by hand with water colour and ink, then animated them digitally. "It seems that almost everything is digital media nowadays - movies, illustrations, art work," said Daria. "Sometimes, I think we really need to see something that is done by hand, because when we can see the texture of the paper, the brushstrokes, I think there is so much charm in it. It is important not to forget that."
Another Canadian documentary film to make an appearance is 'Behind the Dress', created by filmmaker and former Miss Universe Canada Elena Semikina. The audience is "taken beyond the stereotypes and clichés, showing the pageant as a vehicle for empowering women, humanitarian outreach, and for one contestant even social reform." A hand drawn illustration created by Daria Jabenko from the nominated short film ‘Arlene’
This December, the Angel Film Awards, also known as the Monaco Film Festival, will once again serve as a springboard for many upand-coming screenwriters, film makers and artists from across the globe.
The AFA has official selections from Japan, Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, Bulgaria and Turkey, among others. In total, the festival receives around 800 submissions a year.
makers and artists with a unique message, emphasising non-violent films," said Rosana. The festival was established by the couple 12 years ago as a non-profit, independent and nongovernmental event. It is promoted as celebrating “peace, love, harmony, positive energy and the art of making movies”.
Vying for the Angel Award 2014 will be the short film 'Arlene', directed and narrated by Côte d'Azur local Mike Colquhoun, illustrator and part-time local Daria Jabenko, and musician Anna Giladi. The animated piece centres upon the ideology that: "Sometime, somewhere, you have a dream, an ambition, follow that dream." For the creators of the film festival, Rosana Golden and Dean Bentley, the film fits perfectly within the festival's philosophy. "The Angel Film Awards is an art house cinema festival promoting writers, film
The festival, reserved for industry professionals, will be held from 4th to 7th December. Cassandra Tanti
The selection committee is made up of seasoned international industry professionals, and each evening will see a gala event in one of Monaco's prestigious venues.
Opening the festival this year is the heart warming documentary 'The Owen Hart Foundation: A Look Back', documenting the foundation's 15year history of making a difference in the lives of Canadians in need. The foundation was established following the death of Owen Hart, a Canadian professional and amateur wrestler who was killed after an equipment malfunction
"Industry professionals involved with the Angel
Left: Dean Bentley and Rosana Golden. Right: ‘Arlene’ illustrator Daria Jabenko, photo by AtelierMike.com
Helidon Xhixha Monumental installation at the Palazzo Mantegazza, Switzerland
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he lakeside promenade of Lugano has been transformed into an open air art museum, enriched by a new monument rising towards the sky in front of the Palazzo Mantegazza. The sculpture, created by the Maestro Xhixha, represents two siblings and is a tribute to brothers Sergio and Geo Mantegazza. The pair promoted the construction and development of this impressive and elegant project making it an architectural splendor incorporating many aspirations and culminating in the realisation of a futuristic fairy tale.
3rd edition of Italian Culture and Language Month. The event was organised in collaboration with the Italian Ambassador to discover/rediscover the richness of Italy's culture. From 1st to 5th October, people strolling along Monaco’s Quai Louis II discovered the inspiring monumental sculptures by Xhixha Helidon, in collaboration with Continental Art Gallery.
Xhixha's monumental installation, made in mirror polished stainless steel and measuring 400 x 220 x 160 cm, was a prelude to an exhibition of the artist held in the lobby of the Palazzo Mantegazza from the first week of November. The Palazzo Mantegazza, with its unique and ingenious design, is a fusion of perfection, technology, continuity and transparency creating a modern expression of luxury and refinement. It is the perfect context for Helidon Xhixha's illuminating sculpture.
Above: Helidon Xhixha with Italian Ambassador in Monaco Antonio Morabito at a gala dinner for the Italian Culture and Language month, held under the patronage of the Italian embassy of Monaco at the new Monaco Yacht Club. Right: Xhixha's monumental installation at Lugano Switzerland
Meanwhile, the artist recently participated at the first edition of Yachting and Art, organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco as part of the Principality's
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EVENTS
NO. 1 FOR LOCAL NEWS
WWW.RIVIERATIMES.COM
November - December
Theatre, dance and music ... some of the world’s best performers descend on the French Riviera to deliver an impressive line-up of shows, to be enjoyed by the whole family.
TOP EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
9th November
success of their international tour in 2011 in the USA, South America and Japan, this concert has been greatly anticipated by their fans all over the country. The event will cost 13 euros with added booking fees.
NICE BRIT FLOYD Having performed to over one million fans since their first show in 2011, Brit Floyd, the world-famous Pink Floyd tribute band, is coming to Nice's Palais Nikaia to perform DISCOVERY, a threehour chronological musical journey spanning the entire recording career of Pink Floyd from 1967 to 1994. Tickets are priced from 45.50 euros.
23rd November
CANNES BOLLYWOOD EXPRESS A young French journalist of Indian origin is asked to provide a report on the Bollywood movie industry. She arrives in Mumbai in time for the feast of Ganesh, and becomes enamoured with the people and the place. She then goes on a voyage of discovery to unearth her roots. The show will be performed in the Grand Auditorium at the Palais des Festival et des Congrès. Tickets from 24 euros, 12 euros for children.
9th November
CANNES THE MAGIC FLUTE The Magic Flute, written by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is one of the world's most recognised operas. The opera in Cannes will be directed by Antoine Selva and Nicolas Giusti, and will be performed in the Grand Auditorium at the Palais des Festival et des Congrès. Ticket prices start from 28 euros, 12 for children.
29th November
12th and 14th November
NICE FOLIES AND FURIES FROM HÄNDEL AND VIVALDI Taking place in the Eglise Saint Martin, this concert features the baroque ensemble accompanying mezzo-soprano Julia RobardGendre. The young performer will incarnate the goddesses and mythical characters from the operas of Vivaldi and Handel. Tickets 16 euros and concessions 12 euros.
13th November
NICE ST. PETERSBURG BALLET PERFORM SLEEPING BEAUTY Over 60 dancers accompanied by a live orchestra will be performing the renowned ballet Sleeping Beauty at the Acropolis in Nice. The ballet was created by Ivan Vsevolozhsky with music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. It has now become one of the most famous and popular ballets across the world. The performance will take place in the Salle Apollon at the Acropolis. Ticket from 28 euros to 65 euros.
NICE CARMEN DANSE The Siberian National Ballet presents a production featuring music from Bizet's Carmen. There will be over 100 artists performing at the event, including the renowned Siberian National Opera orchestra. At the Acropolis. Tickets from 39 euros.
NICE KIEV BALLET PERFORMS THE NUTCRACKER The Grand Ballet of Kiev's Academic Municipal Theatre, one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world, presents Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker. The show begins at 8pm and will be held at The Acropolis in Nice. Ticket from 40.50 to 59 euros.
21st December
ST PAUL DE VENCE TRUFFLE MARKET This festive market offers locally produced truffles from the Alpes Maritimes along with other gourmet delights to enjoy during the Christmas period. The festivities also include demonstrations of truffle hunting with truffle dogs, truffles in scrambled egg, mulled wine and music. All day at the Place du Gaulle.
7th December
NICE KIEV BALLET PERFORMS SWAN LAKE The Grand Ballet of Kiev's Academic Municipal Theatre presents Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake. The story, told through four acts, tells the tale of Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer. The ballet was first performed in 1877 and now represents one of the most well-known and popular works across the globe. The show begins at 6pm and will be held at The Acropolis. Ticket from 40.50 to 59 euros.
13th-14th December
ANTIBES INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS WEEK (SAILING REGATTA) Every year, over 40 yachts and multihulls gather in the bay of Juan les Pins in Antibes to celebrate International Christmas Week. The racing will be held across the weekend and will be followed by a party which is guaranteed to provide festive cheer.
NICE BAROQUE ENSEMBLE Jean-Christophe Maillard performs on the musette de cours, a baroque bellows instrument similar to an oboe, with the
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The Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur is rich with events and exhibitions. To discover what is happening in your city, every day of the month, simply visit the comprehensive events calendar on our website:
www.rivieratimes.com
5th and 7th December
SAINT RAPHAËL GUSH IN CONCERT The French group Gush will perform their recently released album 'Mira' at the Théatre de la Ville in Saint Raphaël. After the
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6th December
2nd December
21st November
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CANNES ST. PETERSBURG'S EIFMAN BALLET The St. Petersburg-based company will be performing Rodin et son Eternelle Idole, telling a tale of love and destiny based around the captivating trio of Rodin, his muse Camille and his wife. At the Grand Auditorium of the Palais des Festival et des Congrès. Tickets from 22 to 34 euros, 12 euros for children. LE CANNET CELTIC RHYTHMS OF IRELAND Combining traditional Irish music and dance with modern technics. Featuring Ireland's most talented dancers, singers, and musicians, the show has already toured the world numerous times. At the La Palestre theatre in Le Cannet. Tickets from 32.80 euros.
CANNES ZELDA & SCOTT The audience will be given an insight into the fascinating lives of Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, in the presence of Ernest Hemingway - famous writer and friend of the duo. F Scott and Zelda spent much time in Paris, socialising with fellow writers and this is one aspect of their lives which will be described in the production. The action will be accompanied with music from the Manhattan Jazz Band. At the Théâtre Croisette at the JW Marriott Hotel. Ticket from 20 to 34 euros, 12 euros for children.
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29th November
30th November
21st November
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NICE RC TOULON v CLERMONT AUVERGNE The defending European Champions will be looking to improve on a solid start to the domestic season with a win against rivals Clermont. As two of the best rugby teams in France, the sides will contest a fierce battle in front of the Allianz Riviera crowd. The match will begin at 2.45pm. Tickets between 19 and 70 euros.
Baroque Ensemble of Nice. The programme features music from Corrette, a late Baroque period organ player, and Charpentier, who wrote music for Molière's ballet-comedies as well as composing a famous Te Deum. Though early in December, the concert aims to provide a colourful and festive atmosphere. Tickets 16 euros and concessions at 12 euros.
The calendar is updated daily, so you never have to miss a thing!
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NO. 1 FOR LOCAL NEWS
EVENTS
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exhibitions Christmas festivities Until 31st December
MOUGINS CONNIVENCE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION The André Villers Photography Museum in Mougins is hosting an exhibition displaying works from photographers Patrick Zachmann and Nicolas Guilbert, who have appreciated one another's art for a long time. The exhibition will comprise a dialogue of photographs from their archives both in colour and in black and white. Entry is free.
Until December
6th - 7th December, 10am - 6pm A celebration of all things Piedmont including wines, speciality dishes and of course the famed Alba Truffle. Other Christmas markets will be organised throughout December.
Biot
20th December - 5th January An ice rink, magic shows, artistic workshops, a parade of crystal trees, fire shows, a torchlight procession, tales for children, pony rides and a parade with Father Christmas.
Until 3rd January
NICE PIOTR KLEMENSIEWICZ The exhibition, to be held at the Galerie Sandrine Mons in Nice, follows on from Klemensiewicz's N.B.T (Never Been There) show. The paintings featured are not landscapes, however they are composed of mostly green shades and offer an insight into the artist's interpretation of colours and forms. The exhibition is open from Monday to Saturday between 9am and noon and between 2pm and 7pm.
Until 5th January
NICE LE VOYAGE À NICE The Palais Lascaris exhibits 67 paintings and drawings from the 17th and 18th centuries that have never before been shown in Nice. Two ancient musical instruments, a bird wing spinet from Rozet and an early 18th century anonymous tympanum, will also be displayed in the unique exhibition. Opens from 10am to 6pm every day except for Tuesdays.
Until 2nd February
NICE Exhibition: Ah, the war is Cubist! F. Léger and the Great War The Fernand Léger National Museum traces his work during the First World War, showing how it changed radically between the years 1914 and 1925. Open every day except Tuesdays. Entry 4 5.50 euros.
Until 8th February
GENOA EXHIBITION OF FRIDA KAHLO AND DIEGO RIVERA This exhibition at Palazzo Ducale will investigate the relationship between these two renowned artists. Many say that the work of Frida Khalo alone seems to be incomplete without that of Diego Rivera alongside. The exhibition will allow visitors to explore the support that Diego Rivera offers to her work’s fragility.
Until 9th March
SAINT PAUL DE VENCE AN ARTIST'S PARADISE Saint Paul de Vence has hosted a plethora of famous artists from the 20th century including Braque, Chagall, Miro, and Calder. This exhibition displays not works by the artists, but depictions of the artists themselves. Photographs of the famous visitors to the village will be displayed throughout the streets, with some video footage playing in the local museum, Musée de Saint Paul. The theme which runs through these photos is the artists' attachment to the beauty of Saint Paul de Vence as well as to its people. Info: saint-pauldevence.com
Until 31st December
SANREMO COINS OF THE REVOLUTION A hoard of coins from the 17th and 18th centuries are on display in the Sanremo municipal museum on Palazzo Borea d'Olmo. They are believed to have been hidden in 1753 and were later discovered during archaeological excavations in the fortress of Santa Tecla in 2005. The exhibition is open weekly, Tuesday to Saturday.
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14th - 24th December, 10am - 7pm The Brignoles Christmas market in Place Carami will once again run until Christmas Eve offering visitors the chance to pick up some last minute gifts.
Cabris
14th December, 10am - 6pm Traditional Christmas market with artisans, Christmas gifts, and a visit by Santa Claus.
Cagnes sur Mer
13th - 21st December, 10am - 7pm An ice rink and an igloo will be popular attractions this year in Place de Gaulle, as well as Cagnes' annual Christmas market.
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Mouans Sartoux
14th November - 24th December The oldest and largest Santon Fair in the region with many artisans selling their festive figurines in all styles and sizes. Also on offer are hundreds of nativity accessories. 6th December, 9am - 6pm Over 150 stands will showcase the finest festive products and treats, with a light festival illuminating the town and parades.
Mougins
13th - 14th December, 10am - 6pm More than 40 exhibitors of luxury products will be offering visitors an opportunity to see and taste culinary specialities. A World of Elves for kids with face-painting, ice-skating and a visit from Father Christmas.
Nice
6th December - 4th January, 11am - 8pm Around 60 mini chalets will make up the Christmas village in Place Masséna with various concerts and events scheduled for the weekends. Children will also be able to enjoy one of the Riviera's biggest ice skating rinks.
Opio
14th December, 2pm Opio no longer has a seasonal market however their Christmas celebration will include a parade, carols and a visit from Father Christmas.
Seillans
30th November, 9.30am 5.30pm & 11th December Gastronomic produce, seasonal gifts and artwork will be on display throughout the village. On 11th December Seillans will host its traditional, stunning Christmas Exhibition in the Couvent Hall.
Sospel
14th December, 10am - 6pm A traditional Christmas market with local producers showcasing their finest products with artists also exhibiting at Place des Platanes.
St Cézaire sur Siagne
Callian
29th November - 7th December The 15th annual Foire aux Santons will be held in the Chapelle des Pénitents. Entry is free.
Cap d'Ail
20th December, 6pm Carriage rides, street entertainment, socca, and a children's show at the Château des Terrasses.
20th December, all day Festivities in the main square.
St Jean Cap Ferrat
20th December, 10am - 6pm Fun for all the family with Christmas cinema and face-painting along with a visit from Santa Claus.
St Laurent du Var
Fayence
14th December All day entertainment, children's games, Santa Claus in person, and the tasting of 13 desserts of Christmas in Provence at midday with a glass of mulled wine.
Grasse
6th - 7th December, 10am - 6pm In addition to stands selling local produce, there will be art, jewellery, pottery and fine wines on offer in Place de la Mairie.
7th - 24th December, 10.30am - 7pm The very impressive Christmas market in St Laurent du Var will run until Christmas Eve and will offer one of the most widely ranging festive displays in the area.
St. Tropez
6th - 24th December No market this year but Christmas lights will be switched on at 6.30pm and the ice rink will be officially opened on the 6th. On Christmas Eve, in keeping with tradition, Santa Claus will arrive in the town by boat at 6.30pm and distribute gifts and sweets.
Théoule sur Mer
14th December, 10am - 6pm Details will be made available nearer the time.
13th December - 4th January Each year, the nativity scene is set up in the streets of Théoule, together with a fair selling traditional santons.
Le Cannet
Tourette Levens
Mandelieu la Napoule
Tourettes sur Loup
21st December - 3rd January, 10am - 8pm A beautiful Christmas market with 24 festive chalets and games for children. The village includes an ice rink , 5 euros per session.
Until 31st December
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Brignoles
La Colle sur Loup
NICE MARC CHAGALL BIBLE WATERCOLOURS The exhibition at the National Chagall Museum will display 40 of Chagall's finest watercolour illustrations based on scenes from the Bible. Open every day except Tuesdays from 10am - 5pm. Entry between 6 and 8 euros.
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14th December - 5th January An ice rink in Place de Gaulle, electric cars in Place Nationale, a Christmas concert in the Cathedral, a torchlight procession, and Father Christmas in Place de Gaulle on 23rd. A New Year's Day swim is held from the Plage de la Salis at 11.30am.
Beausoleil
MENTON 70 YEARS AGO, THE MENTONNAIS AND THEIR WAR The exhibition displays how the Second World War affected the people of Menton by showing documents and photos from the town's archives. During the war, the south of France was controlled by Axis forces for a long period of time and many of the most iconic buildings were used for high ranking officers or as headquarters. This exhibition delves deeper into the lives of the local people during that period. Open weekdays from 9am until 5pm. Free entry.
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22nd - 23rd November, 10am - 4pm (3pm Sunday) This traditional Danish Christmas Market offers an abundance of typical Nordic Christmas decorations, gifts, paper goods, candles, stocking fillers, and goodies together with a variety of Danish food specialties to adorn your Christmas table. The restaurant will be serving typical delicacies to be accompanied with Danish beer or hot spiced Glögg, the Danish mulled wine.
Menton
6th December - 4th January, 10am - 7pm The Casino Gardens will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a circus theme for 2014, while the old town sees a nativity trail snaking around the quaint streets.
Monaco
5th December - 4th January, 11am - 9pm (10pm Fri-Sat) Local artisan producers will be housed in gourmet chalets on the Quai Albert 1er and animations will help to create an enchanted atmosphere, entertaining adults and children alike. There will also be a petit train and a ferris wheel.
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29th - 30th November, 10am - 6pm One of the first festive events in the area with variety of gourmet tastings aimed at both adults and children. 14th December, 10am - 6pm Christmas concert by the local choir, under the direction of Jacques Maes, with Jackline Marion on piano.
Valbonne/Sophia Antipolis
17th - 18th December, 10am - 6pm There will be a secondary festive market running from 20th to 24th December, which will include the village of Valbonne. An impressive range of artisan producers will be present at both.
Vence
20th December - 4th January, 10am - 7pm A warm Christmas House in Place du Grand Jardin will host many events for all the family.
Villeneuve Loubet
14th December, all day This year the market is being organised by Villeneuve Artisanats who have organised for a range of exhibitors to show off their Christmas gifts and delicious festive food.
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COMMUNITY
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WWW.RIVIERATIMES.COM
Mougins school unites with Educating Cambodia Theatre performance raises thousands as charity founder gives his thanks in person
T
he idea by Mougins International School to combine the opening of their upgraded theatre with a fundraising evening for Educating Cambodia was an inspired one. Nearly two hundred audience members looked on as a trio of professional actors performed a thrilling version of Oscar Wilde's A Picture of Dorian Gray, on an evening which raised a grand total of 2,925 euros for the charity. John Mann, director of Educating Cambodia, was overwhelmed by the response and was delighted that the event continued the great support that Educating Cambodia has received on the French Riviera. Due in no small part to Hilary Lemaire, the former director of the Red Pear Theatre Company in Antibes and the chief fundraiser for the charity on the Côte d'Azur, the region has already been such a successful fundraising location for Educating Cambodia, that one of the project's new schools in Cambodia has been named 'Antibes'. In an interview with The Riviera Times, John explained how the charity was started. "I first went on holiday to Cambodia in 2004. I visited a village in Prey Mang province and was shocked by the poverty." Instead of returning
to his native Australia, John decided to try and improve the situation. "I asked if I could do anything to help and the people's reply was that they needed a school. I vowed that I would build them a school and in 2008 the project opened its first." In the intervening period, Educating Cambodia has gone from strength to strength, and now boasts three schools which educate 1,090 children, a clinic where local people can receive medical attention, and work is nearly complete on a guesthouse for visitors and volunteers. According to John, the project is important because it not only educates children but also saves lives. "Before Educating Cambodia arrived, every girl who had left the villages had been sold in the cruelty of sex slavery. Since our first school opened, the project hasn't lost a single girl," he revealed. "Unlike many of the leading charities, Educating Cambodia is extremely transparent as all money raised goes directly to help build infrastructure, educate or aid the local population. A key aspect of the charity's image is that only free advertisements are used and the only paid salaries are to the teachers, at a cost of around two dollars per tutor per day. If you donate to Educating Cambodia, you know that you
Simon Coury, Michael Winder and Duncan Hamilton performing A Picture of Dorian Gray at Mougins School
are sending money directly to where it's needed most," said John. This version of the play, which succeeded in raising nearly 3,000 euros, was masterminded by Simon Coury and Michael Winder. "Having performed the play twice in Antibes we are familiar with this part of the world and,
somewhat unsurprisingly, we love coming back," said Simon Coury to The Riviera Times. The actor, who plays Lord Henry Wooton, added, "It's an honour to perform the production at Mougins School in front of our biggest ever audience of 180 guests and it is our pleasure to do so benevolently." A Picture of Dorian Gray
starring Simon Coury, Michael Winder as the eponymous Dorian Gray, and Duncan Hamilton as Basil Hallwood, was a fantastic representation of an Oscar Wilde classic. The actors created an intimacy with spectators and an atmosphere which grew progressively more charged as Lord Henry Wotton lead the naïve Dorian Gray
down a decadent path to selfdestruction. The performance provided a fitting opening for the upgraded theatre. "We are delighted to continue to raise money for Educating Cambodia,” said Sue Dunnachie, the marketing consultant at Mougins School. “As a school it seems right that we should support the funding of education in other parts of the world and it is a topic with which our children can immediately relate." The charity founder was thankful to have spent a productive day at Mougins School prior to the performance of A Picture of Dorian Gray. "The children were fantastic. Even the primary school children were so taken with the story and the Cambodian cause that they made hearts and pictures to send to the kids out there. We hope to have regular correspondence between the schools in the future," said John affectionately. Mougins School also hopes to continue its fundraising success by collaborating with the prestigious Royal Mougins Golf Club to host a gala dinner next April. All funds raised from the evening will be donated to Educating Cambodia's new project to build a secondary school. Watch this space. Dominic Thurlow-Wood
Cats of the Mercantour It’s time to support this dedicated expat and her amazing work
W
e all know the romantic picture: taking a gentle stroll through a picturesque mountain village in France followed by a nice lunch on a sunny town square underneath century old plane trees, surrounded by age-old buildings with flowers in the window boxes, and ... stray cats. Lots and lots of stray cats, with their numerous kittens, the smell of urine, yowling during mating season, fighting and inbreeding, which leads to unhealthy, unsightly cats that carry many feline diseases with them. Until 1999, the only answer that the French government had for this problem was euthanasia. This, however, does not stop the cats that are left behind to proliferate at an alarming rate. The cats that get destroyed are just replaced with litters of new kittens. For example, one small mountain village had a colony of 40 cats compared to just two
In order to help Leslie and friends, volunteers of Les Chats du Mercantour will be holding a Pre-Christmas Charity Sale in collaboration with Chiens d'Ici et d'Ailleurs on 8th and 9th November at Mougins School. Numerous high quality items, including unique pieces of Biot glass, will be sold at the event. If you are also able to volunteer and help out during the sale, drop them a line!
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abandoned cats a mere two years earlier. This is where Leslie Frasier comes into the story. Based in St Etienne de Tinée and with a background in veterinary medicine, Leslie started the association Les Chats du Mercantour in 2006, which allows her to capture, sterilise and re-release or foster stray cats. A controlled number of sterilised, healthy cats are then re-released at the place of their capture - to defend their territory against new strays settling in. "Spaying and neutering automatically stabilises the cat population which continues to play its role as a filter against pests like rats and mice," explains Leslie. Captured kittens are tamed and put up for adoption, while adult cats that can't be tamed are placed in a sanctuary that Leslie has created in the mountains. More information about the 'Lazy Claw Cabin' and the 'Cold Nose Barn' can
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be found on their website. In fact, cute little stories about most of the cats can be found on the website. But be warned, you may want to take them all home. Since the start of the association, Leslie has treated over 1,800 cats in more than 30 villages. While the association receives some help from local government, it depends heavily on donations, sponsors, foster and adoptive families, and volunteers. "To capture, sterilise, tattoo, treat and release one cat costs around 133 euros," says Leslie. "On top of that, there is a lot of traveling costs involved, as some villages are 80 kilometres from the nearest vet!" Feeding the cats that are now living in several colonies throughout the valleys is an ongoing struggle for Leslie. The majority of funding comes from ordinary people who give tax deductible donations to the association. Families are also needed to foster and
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adopt kittens and adult cats. The animals will always be sterilised, tattooed, tested and de-wormed. More good work is being done by Tania Burrows, with Chiens d'Ici et d'Ailleurs. This association too is always looking for loving foster or permanent homes for beautiful abandoned dogs and cats. Both Leslie and Tania have become so well known that people from far and wide call them for help with their pets, especially when owners pass on or just move away. As a result, many animals are simply abandoned on their doorstep, which puts an enormous strain on the associations. Extra funding and volunteers are always welcome. Please visit the websites for more information on the work they do, or if you think you can help in any way. leschatsdumercantour.com chiensiciailleurs.com
COMMUNITY
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Danish Christmas Market Enjoy the warm and cozy atmosphere of a traditional Danish Christmas Market this November, now in its 38th year! On offer is an abundance of typical Nordic Christmas decorations, gifts, paper goods, candles, stocking fillers, and goodies together with a variety of Danish food specialties to enlighten your Christmas table. A restaurant will be serving succulent treats including the world-famous Danish open-faced sandwiches, delicious flaky Danish Pastries, hotdogs, and dough fritters, all to be accompanied by some of excellent Danish beer or steaming hot Glögg (spiced red wine). Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd November from 10am L'Hostellerie du Golf *** 780 Avenue de la Mer Mandelieu la Napoule
C O M M E N T A R Y M e di t e r r a n e u m e di t io n s
Publishing Director Petra Hall hall@mediterra.com
Editor Cassandra Tanti rivieratimes@mediterra.com
Contributors Madeleine Adey, Dominic ThurlowWood, Rhian Williams, Carolyn Reynier, Mike Ferrier
Advertising Sales
Petra Benzing Tel: +33 (0)4 97 00 11 22 Fax: +33 (0)4 93 27 60 10 p.benzing@mediterra.com
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Konny Strauss
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Mike Ferrier
A local author’s musings on Riviera living
The French don't get Thanksgiving juicy. North Americans baste a turkey with a 'baster' - a tube with a rubber ball at the end. You suck up the gravy and release it all over the bird. Last year the baster broke and my wife sent me out to get a new one. But the French do not baste with a baster. They ladle. Americans do not ladle. They baste. Stand-off. I went from store to store. "Use a ladle like everyone else," they'd shrug. "We don't sell that sort of baster thing." My wife then suggested the pharmacy. Ladies apparently use a similar contraption for personal hygiene. My French was not exactly up to outlining why I - a male wanted a thing like that. I explained again and again to
Thanksgiving remains a French mystery. One Frenchman is so curious he forces my wife to cook at least three consecutive Thanksgiving dinners of 12 invitees to satisfy that curiosity. "What is the 'stuff' in the stuffing?", "What is 'cranberry' in French?" "Why on earth would you make a pie out of pumpkin?" The rest of France shows no interest whatsoever and wants nothing to do with these strange Anglo-Saxon rites. Take last year for example. If you know anything about Thanksgiving, you know the centrepiece is a turkey. A huge turkey. And they have to be ordered weeks in advance. An American turkey is slowly baked for hours, moistened every 10 minutes to keep it
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the puzzled pharmacist as best I could. "Non, ce n'est pas pour moi, c'est pour le turkey madame. Pour la dinde." She didn't have to reply, her face said it all. "What the hell are you talking about?" Then she blew that famous French "phoof!" that makes you feel about three inches tall. Everyone in the shop watched as my face turned 10 shades of red, like an Irish lass after a few hours in the Riviera midday sun! A lady somewhat fluent in English rushed over to help. "Monsieur, you vant zis ting for ze turkey?" 'Yes Madame, for basting the turkey. Thank you for helping.' "Ok Monsieur, but (Mon Dieu) how do you know it's a female turkey?" I paid for the thing as soon as possible and ran home triumphant. I thought that would be the end of the matter. But a baster squirts out of the end spout, this thing sprayed out of the sides. There was gravy all over the kitchen. My wife was furious, and yet, darn it, wasn't it her idea? Sometimes you just can't win.
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The PWN Nice Côte d’Azur Round Table Lunches are fast become something of an institution. We hold three lunches per month, one in Monaco on the third Tuesday of each month at a local restaurant, one in Nice on the first Monday of each month at the Pescheria Restaurant Boscolo Exedra hotel, and one in Sophia Antipolis on the second Tuesday of each month at the Hotel Omega. The lunches are an opportunity to get together over a key topic, like: • How high is your emotional intelligence • Living and working in
"crescendo mode" in your golden years • Women's role in today's world: balancing family and professional life and the roles of men and women • Online branding and PR • Leadership qualities • Making your LinkedIn profile work for you • Why women leave leadership roles Animated by one of our PWN members, these subjects stimulate an interactive debate over a high quality lunch. Come and join us and get to know the PWN and how it could help you in your career or business. events@pwnnice.net
2015 is already on the horizon and the International Club of the Riviera is planning a great action packed events calendar for the new year with some of our regular and popular annual events as well as new, diverse, and adventurous events on the drawing board to keep our members and guests entertained! In the meantime, this month the ICR is concentrating on developing our internal 'club' activity. We are proud to sponsor many clubs/sub groups within the club to cater to a wide variety of diverse interests and activities of our members. At the moment the following internal groups which exist within the club are the International Sailing Club, International Golf Club, Family
Fun Club, International Art Club, International Theatre & Drama Club, International Gourmet Club & ICR Polo Club. Members are requested to visit the clubs page of our website to discover activities which they could join in. We'll be celebrating Thanksgiving with the American Club of the Riviera and in early December we will be joining the The Riviera Business Club for the biggest event of the year, the Riviera Business Club Business Person of the Year 2014 gala dinner and award ceremony at The Marriott Riviera in Monaco. www.internationalclub.fr 04 93 72 11 89 / 07 89 0320 07 info.internationalclub.fr.
Nominations are now closed for the most prestigious business awards on the Riviera, the RBC Business Person of the Year Awards 2014. The record number of nominations received this year is proof that the RBC Business Awards is generating huge interest among the local business community! The panel of judges will get to work and after interviews with the nominees a short list of 10 will make it to the final awards night where the winners of the two awards, the RBC Business Person of the Year Award 2014 and the Best Start Up Award 2014, will be announced. Apart from the fabulous RBC crystal trophies, the winners will receive other valuable prizes. The winners of last year, Greg and Marion Harris of Côte d'Azur Villas and Ewan Bird and Betrand Pettit of Vin de Terre, will also be introduced to the gathering. The RBC Business Person of the Year Awards 2014 gala
dinner awards ceremony will be held on Thursday 4th December starting at 7.30pm with champagne cocktails and canapés at the Marriott Riviera - La Porte de Monaco. The event will be co-hosted by Cassandra Tanti (The Riviera Times) and Mark Dezzani (Riviera Life Tv) and will feature a guest entertainment spot by the internationally acclaimed Soprano Amy Blake! Reservations are now open: the cost for a table of 10 will be at 55 euros per person. Individual bookings range from 57 euros for members of the Riviera Business Club, the International Club of the Riviera, the British Association of Menton and guests of sponsors and partners of the event, and 62 euros for others. For reservations please visit the BPOY Awards 2014 page of the RBC website. www.rivierabusinessclub.fr, Tel: 07 89 03 20 07, info@rivierabusinessclub.fr
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CLASSIFIEDS
NO. 1 FOR LOCAL NEWS
SAFETY & SECURITY
WWW.RIVIERATIMES.COM
HEALTH
CONSTRUCTION
BUSINESS
FOR SALE Charming, modern villa in Flayosc
PERSONAL BOOKS SERVICE JOBS OFFERED Grimaud/Var: looking for guardian couple to manage garden, household, pool, etc. in exchange we offer house with garden but no salary. Driver's license required. grimaud2000@gmx.de
MEETINGS with Adonis, 32, 1.85 m. Attractive Single Ladies can contact : infomail69@hispeed.ch Exclusive Lifestyle www.AdonisTopofMen.com WOULD YOU LIKE a new start with a new life partner? Businessman who has partly retired, 69 years, 178 cm, uncommitted, who's been living on the French Riviera for a few years, seeks a happy, cultured, warm-hearted and sophisticated woman with whom to share his hobbies like golf, hiking, cultural things and travelling. A cosy home with good wine and food (which you can tell by his looks) is waiting. He is a happy, positive character with many friends. Non-smoker. With grown son who works in different countries and has his own family. If he finds the right woman he would love to stay with her for good. Not looking for adventures. He counts on mutual faith and warmth. He would be delighted to receive a positive reply soon. CHIFFRE 857 or chiffre@mediterra.com
FOR SALE
MECHANICAL PERFECTIONISM paired with ideal functionality and esthetics. Sophisticated in quality and stable value. Custom made stainless steel trike. Visit my website: www.cult-trike.de
JOBS WANTED
VILLEFRANCHE SUR MER. Timeshare
JOBS OFFERED
for sale, week 51. Studio apartment. Also available at the same location, another apartment (sleeps 5) for Weeks 5, 6 and 7. All can be sold individually or in any combination. Residence de la Marine, Quai Amiral Poncharde, located on the world famous harbour with fabulous views. Residence has a lift and is a short walking from all amenities. Contact davgoldberg@gmail.com
WANTED: MAGAZINE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR. The Riviera Times is looking for a new Magazine Artistic Director to join our team in Nice from January 2015. Applicants must be qualified, creative and available on a freelance basis. Please send applications to hall@mediterra.com.
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SENIOR BUSINESS MANAGER with an auto-entrepreneur status, resident of Côte d'Azur area, looks for private assignments on a project /daily/ periodical basis. Personal profile: Austrian with a 30-year multinational expat career in CFO functions, with language knowledge at negotiation level in English, French, German (mothertongue), Dutch and Spanish. Highly mental, cultural and geographical mobility can be expected. Please contact +33-6-83 95 89 49 for more information or a face-to-face opportunity. PERSONAL ASSISTANT seeks full-time or part time job in Monaco. Languages: fluent English, French and German. Call: +33 683 0685 94.
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FOR SALE AT:
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 guidegantie.com
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Built in 2004, this beautiful single level villa of approx. 120m² was designed with the highest quality fittings. Boasting a modern, comfortable design with spacious, bright rooms, the home features air-conditioning, double-glazed windows and car shelter. There's a fantastic, large contemporary American kitchen and
dining area, and three terraces looking out over a manicured garden of 1,300m2. Two spacious bedrooms feature their own bathrooms; one is so large it can be separated to make 3 bedrooms. Surrounded by grape vines, the property is in a quiet, residential area and south exposed. A swimming pool can be easily constructed. Just outside the centre of Flayosc, a must see. Price: 339,000 euros. Contact: villa.lacharmille@ orange.fr, Tel: +33 (0)6 82 83 81 82. TOURRETTES SUR LOUP: Modern Provencal Mas built in 2002 with uninterrupted sea views, on a slope. Bright, 220sqm home with possibility to expand. Entrance hall, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 dressing, study, large living room, eat-in kitchen, WC, laundry, central heating room, terraces approx 120sqm of which 25sqm are covered, 10x5 infinity pool with views of sea, garage, shelter, floor heating, central vacuum cleaner, surface/terrain 1670sqm, very comfortable living on two levels, Nice airport 25min. Private sale, 1.55 million euros. Contact: ohneprovision@t-online.de
See more, do more, know more The Riviera Times is changing to meet your expectations and needs The monthly publication will still be available at international newsagents, by subscription, and distributed at strategic locations throughout the Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur and Monaco.