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MY FRENCH LINK MAGAZINE 1st Quarter 2016 Issue 01 • 7 €uros

Directors of publication Laurent Mallet & Jean-Luc Bogros Editor in chief Macha Binot

— France, a land of passions and emotions —

oday, you are holding in your hands the first issue of My French Link. You are about to travel, and first of all we would like to thank you for choosing France. My French Link’s teams wish to open for you the – sometimes secret – doors to our country, to make you to turn the moments you are going to live into an experience you’ll remember enthusiastically and you’ll want to share. Though describing the diversity France has to offer won’t come down to a few figures, it’s no coincidence that 85 million tourists come each year to visit Paris and the regions of France. My French Link’s ambition will be for you to discover why hundreds of millions of travelers choose, enjoy and return to France. Discover the country through the magazine’s pages, its website and the videos played on the screens of the visa application centres. And soon you’ll also be able to use our app on your smartphone. Whatever desire drives you, we wish to make you meet the passionate individuals who will welcome you in every region and city of France. Whether outdoors – for adventurers – or in French luxury hotels, you’ll discover the most iconic catering and accommodation venues of the international jet-set. Exceptional places await you as well. In this first i ssue, y ou’ll l earn a bout t he M ont-Saint-Michel r ock w hich, for more than 1,300 years, has been filling w ith w onder t ravelers f acing the builders’ achievement. Learn also about the codes of the “French art of living” throughout our pages dedicated to shopping and great Parisian stores. France, a land enriched by its cultural diversity. Each year, tens of thousands of exhibitions and shows are produced, as well as theatre performances and concerts, not to mention sporting events such as the European Football Championship that will take place in a few weeks. The choice is yours among our suggestions. My French Link will also display the talents who make the international reputation of French arts and craft. From cuisine to fashion or jewellery, from already famous names to young budding designers, we’ll shed light on French creation. The expression of these intelligences in numerous fields, e ven m ore i ndustrial o nes such as new technologies, aerospaces or aeronautics and the maritime sector, bring a dynamic into French and international companies that establish in our territories. We’ll provide you with monitoring on this topic. Welcome inn France.

Translation Baptiste Nollet & Alexander Norton Revision Audrey Robin & Baptiste Nollet Writers Pauline Pinsolle & Sandra Serpero Iconography Adobe Stock, RP Publisher “My French Link” is a publication of “My Link”, represented by Magebox SARL, 3 rue Troyon, 75017 Paris • France

“

Printer Ali Bin Ali

You wish to communicate in this magazine, do not hesitate to contact us: Editorial team editor@myfrenchlink.com

Advertising team advertising@myfrenchlink.com Other questions contact@myfrenchlink.com

Laurent MALLET Publication director • My French Link

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Jean-Bernard FALCO President and founder • Ah Top

Creative Director Céline Faillères

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• Inside

France, a land of wealth and openness —

P 10 |

TRAVEL JOURNAL: Mont-Saint-Michel

P 24 |

TRAVEL JOURNAL: Passion Ski

P 32 |

MUSEUM VISIT: The Arab World Institute

P 40 |

EDUCATION: Business schools

P 42 |

INVEST: Interview with Jean-Yves Heyer about Invest in Reims

P 44 |

LUXURY: The Alpine model

P 62 |

MUST HAVE: Chanel No. 5 perfume

P 64 |

THE PLACE TO BE: Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann

Current Events

1 © Régis Grman

14/06 THE PRIX DE DIANE Custom dictates that ladies wear a hat. Welcome to the quintessence of chic equestrian events. For one day, horse riding is in the spotlight on the racecourse of Chantilly, a few kilometres from Paris. In the idyllic setting of the castle and Great Stables, the Prix de Diane Longines has been the most awaited race of the season for all the fillies in the world since 1843. All information on |• www.prix-de-diane.com

03/04 16/05 • 05/06

SUBSCRIPTION

PARIS MARATHON

ROLAND-GARROS

MEET FRENCH EXCELLENCE

Come run the city of Paris on April 3, 2016 in a marathon that has made a reputation for itself. Over 42.195 kilometres in the heart of the French capital city, about 148 nationalities and 57,000 runners are about to compete. Whether you are a contestant or a supporter, discover the race route on the site |• www. schneiderelectricparismarathon.com

From May 16 to June 5, the top ATP players will set foot on the clay of Roland-Garros for more than three weeks. The show will take place on the court but also within the walls of the brand-new stadium. All information on |• www.rolandgarros.com

Embark on an exclusive discovery of France, the experiences it has to offer and the mustdo’s for a successful trip.Our commitment: introduce you to a culture, a tradition, a savoir-faire but also businesses and people that make the heart and soul of an economy. Receive the digital version for free by subscribing here: |• www.myfrenchlink.com/ subscription and type the code MB3CF5.

FRO

11- 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .NEWS . . . . ....

FROM

05 TO

CANNES FILM FESTIVAL

The seventh art is celebrating its geniuses and their works from 11 to 22 May 2016 in the South of France. The red carpet rolled-out on the Croisette in Cannes, along a long beach, has become a cliché of French cinema. At the foot of the Festival Palace, a procession of vintage cars will drop off actresses in glamorous evening dresses, directors and other members of the great family of international cinema. All information on |• www.festival-cannes.com

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EVENTS

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Billetteriefhac Fnac is a major actor in cultural and entertainment products and electronics retail market, but also the French market leader in retailing tickets for shows, sporting events and theme parks. Our brand has 199 stores in France and abroad. We are present in 9 countries: Northern Europe, Southern Europe, Qatar, Morocco, Brazil, Ivory Coast. Through our large ticketing offer, with more than 60 000 shows a year, you should find anything you are looking for: magic places for kids, a walk in History through the many monuments and museums, emo tions with all the theater plays, comedian shows and musicals available every day in Paris ! Book your tickets on www.fnacspectacles.com, our mobile applica tion or in one of our stores. • > with uBILLmERIE •• your phone becomes your ticket

Ci) > Book & print

your tickets at home even on Sunday!

• • Montparnasse

DINNER CRUISE

Come and sail for a memorable dinner. Enter into the secrets of Paris lights, best Monuments, illuminated bridges ... 24 km in the heart of Paris with fine dining prepared on board by the Chef. You will discover the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Hôtel de Ville, the Conciergerie, the Bibliothèque Nationale de France...

LOUVRE MUSEUM

Visit the Louvre makes you disco ver, through collections of Western art from the Middle Ages to 1848 and many ancient civilizations, but also invites you to a different story. The great palace that houses the museum which dates back to the late 12th century is a real lesson in architecture: from 1200 to 2011, the most innovative architects have succeeded to build and expand the Louvre. For a long time the seat of power, the royal residence, which also housed the French heads of state until 1870, is also one of the great places where was played the history of Paris and of France. Open every day (except Tuesday)

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JAMES BOND 007 THE EXHIBITION

50 years of Bond Style presents more than 500 original objects for an amazing journey in the most famous spy's world. Aston Martin, suits, gadgets, sketches, photos of shootings, lan Fleming's originals and exclusives pieces from the shooting from Spectre including James Bond's Day of the Dead Costume, the Q Branch Smart Blood Gadget, Oberhauser's Moroccan Lair costume and gold Spectre ring ! The exhibition redraws the biggest ever produced saga by showing, for example, the white tuxedo of Roger Moore in Octopussy, the space suite of Moonraker, the golden pistol of Scaramanga in The Man With The Golden Gun, Q's gadgets as the attaché case of Bond in From Russia With Love or the Aston Martin DB5 silver of 1964 in GoldenEye... Grande Halle de la Villette, from April 16th to September 4th

CATS

Based on T. S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, the show is set amongst a larger than-life junkyard playground and is alive with our favourite feline characters including Rum Tum Tugger, Mr. Mistoffelees, Macavity, Jennyanydots, Old Deuteronomy, Grizabella and Skimbleshanks. The Jellicle Cats corne out to play on one special night of the year - the night of the Jellicle Ball. One by one they tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, who must choose one of the Cats to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life. Théâtre Mogador, until July 3rd

WONDER.LAND

A new musical inspired by Lewis Carroll's iconic story, wonder.land is a coming-of-age adventure that explores the blurred boundaries between our online and offline lives. Combining live theatre and digital technology in dazzling new ways, wonder.land is brought to life on stage by an extraordinary creative team. With stunning sets, costumes, video projection and lighting, and a score by Blur's Damon Albarn, this is a musical like no other: an Alice for the online generation. Théâtre du Châtelet, from June 7th ti June 16th

CARAMBOLAGES

Carambolage, or Cannon in English is a term used in the game of billiards. A shot in billiards in which the eue ball contacts one object ball and then the other. fig.: double whammy, shot ricochet. 185 works of art from different eras, styles and countries are presented in an exhibition designed like a game of dominoes, where each work leads to the next by an association of ideas or forms. The creations of Boucher, Giacometti, Rembrandt, Man Ray, Annette Messager and other anony mous artists interact in a fun tour that revisits our traditional approach to art history. Grand Palais, until July 4th

Discover our entire offer and book your tickets on www.fnacspectacles.com or in one of our many stores.

Le Mont-Saint-Michel

The current atmosphere is fervent in the bay: a colossal construction site has ended opening a whole new window to the visitors of Mont-Saint-Michel. It is a return to the natural tides and the maritime character of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marvel of the Westâ&#x20AC;?.

. . . . . . . . . . .TRAVEL . . . . . . . .JOURNAL . . . . . . . . .... MONT-SAINT-MICHEL

FRANCE | Normandy 3rd most visited site in France • Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Built in the 8th century • Height 170 m (558 feet) • Area 70,000 m2 with a circumference of 960 m (17.3 acres) • Population: 41 • 350 km (217 miles) from Paris • Travel time: 1 hour by helicopter, 2 hours by train, 4 hours by car

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|• www.ot-montsaintmichel.com

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Take a journey to this rocky island pyramid which base is constantly covered and rediscovered with the tides of time. Nestled between Normandy and Brittany, Mont-SaintMichel reveals itself all along a single road forming its heart. When meeting the locals, you’ll be drawn to take a stroll around the distinctive architectural characteristics of this enchanting place. In this building seemingly carved out of the stone of the mount, discover another time in history, left intact over the centuries. WITH THE SPEED OF A GALLOPING HORSE After the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, Mont-Saint-Michel is ranked the third most visited monument in all of France.

Since its construction in the year 700 A.D., centuries upon centuries of history have made their mark here on the water and are just at your fingertips. Painters, writers, travelers from far and wide have never been able to resist its charm and allure. It’s also a fantastic observatory where one can experience nature and the beauty of the tides. While the entire area is magnificent, it is at the exceptional, panoramic view from the top that one truly appreciates this wondrous and unique place. Victor Hugo wrote, “The tides here rise with the speed of a galloping horse,” and this expression has endured even to today. From the moment the waters steadily rise, the ceaseless sea

rushes into the bay with such speed. We highly recommend watching “le mascaret” (meaning tidal bore), which is the first wave at high tide that crashes with such a powerful force; it covers the 500 km2 (311 miles2) of the bay in some areas at the rate of 1 meter (approx. 1 yard) per second. MONT-SAINT-MICHEL IN ANOTHER LIGHT The main path elegantly ascends amid the buildings, some dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Saint-Michel’s Mount and bay were made popular by its UNESCO World Heritage Site award in 1979.

. . . . . . . . . . .TRAVEL . . . . . . . .JOURNAL . . . . . . . . .... MONT-SAINT-MICHEL

1 • Sea view of the Mont-Saint-Michel. 2 • One of the many parks and secret places of the village.

EDITOR’S SUGGESTED ITINERARY: Take a full one-night retreat and lose yourself in the citadel. There you can enjoy local restaurants and listen to the sounds from the sea, purely characteristic of this region. At sunset, prepare to sore to new heights by taking a helicopter tour of the island. You’ll have an absolutely stunning and unique view of Saint-Michæl, the archangel watching over the entire area. 3

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3, 4 & 5 • Streets of Le Mont-Saint-Michel looking like a historical film set.

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Answers from Eric Vannier, Honorary Mayor of Mont-SaintMichel and Chairman of Groupe Mère Poulard

Proust interview

Eric Vannier told us his Mont-Saint-Michel tale. Vacations he spent at his grandparents who were doctors and the fulfillment of his dream: to isolate the rocks surrounding Mont-Saint-Michel and make it an island once again. This passion was famously celebrated last October in the presence of French President, François Hollande.

• A memory from your vacations at MontSaint-Michel? The natural beauty... Our walks between the Saint-Aubert chapel to Tombelaine island, with the shifting shore and the moving sand.

After 30 years of work, 350 million euros backed by both the State and the department, this project was inaugurated in October 2015. Visitors will now be able to discover MontSaint-Michel in its new state.

• A strong feeling? After two hours of walking in the seemingly endless bay of sand, to find yourself on Tombelaine island, surrounded by the sea: it’s the strongest tide in the world! Then we waited for the sea to abate and left at the end of the day.

• The Best way to experience the heart and soul of Mont-Saint-Michel? Do not miss the lighting of the barricade lights of the city and the abbey. Stay at La Mère Poulard hotel because the rooms have a view of the bay, the abbey, or the barricades; or at l’Ermitage, which was the former residence La Mère Poulard. Simply breathtaking.

• Another reason to visit Mont-SaintMichel in 2016? The return of Mont-Saint-Michel to nature and to the tides, thanks to the work of the hydraulic machines clearing the sand.

• If Mont-Saint-Michel was a type of music? On the Contemporary side, I’d say the music of Pierre Boulez or a Tibetan Singing Bowl.

For the power of the tides, a Berlioz and Wagner symphony or Carmina Burana. • A color? A vibrant palette of color space according to the vigor of the sky and sun. • A perfume? The scent of kindling from the north of the island or from its small gardens. • A number? Eight, it’s the symbol of infinity, it’s my numerology life path number, and 1888 was the year La Mère Poulard opened!

« Unique expertise for exceptional watches »

©Eugenie Martinez

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The typical street of Mont-Saint-Michel with the Mère Poulard Restaurant.

FRANCE | Normandy Au Mont-Saint-Michel

Mère Poulard, more than just a myth

La Mère Poulard (meaning mother Poulard or moma Poulard) is a cook who gave her name to a restaurant and knew how to pass on her love for cooking. However, beyond eating well, la Mère Poulard also conveyed her values and her way of life. Her entire history is rife with one delightful story after another.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . GASTRONOMY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... LA MÈRE POULARD

Annette Poulard, was a young cook eager to serve at all hours. Travelers would come from all over the world to rest and have a good home-cooked meal. She simply used scrambled eggs and made omelettes to feed her guests. The recipe, although simple, hit the spot and has endured since 1888 all the way to the present. Today the menu is made up of 700 recipes that la Mère Poulard carefully created. The most famous of these specialties: the omelette, of course. The foundation of which is still scrambled eggs, however with a secret still held today that makes every savory

bite melt in your mouth; as if it was made from whipped cream. Other fabulous recipes that await, and that will result in an eruption of flavor, are the ‘marmites de poisson ou de crustacés’ (fish or shellfish stew). The dishes signature jus flavor and texture are attained through its slow steam-cooked preparation. The offering of round shortbread cookies, or biscuits, known as ‘sablés’ (which literal translation is sand, but in this instance means breadcrumbs) are not to be out done and are the perfect compliment to the meal. These treats owe their namesake to the cook’s nickname. The choice is up to you and above all to enjoy!

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La Mère Poulard’s “Omelette”. Many people come from all over the world to eat this.

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THE FAMOUS OMELETTE RECIPE: A WELL-GUARDED SECRET? The history of the omelette stems from a time where cooking methods and communication were anything, but reliable. Visitors would arrive at all hours, often famished and a wonderful omelet soufflé cooked on a wooden fire in a chimney was ideal. Later she elaborated upon this dish and developed the recipe with simple ingredients. The quality and quantity of the eggs and butter, the method of beating the eggs in particular, and the cooking technique, are all a cherished part of her secret. |• www.merepoulard.com

La Mère Poulard’s omelette recipe is a well kept secret that you discover in your mouth.

Editor’s suggestion:

If you decide not to go for the omelette or the stew, I highly recommend you taste the salted leg, the noisette (loin cut of the bone, wrapped in a thin layer of fat and then sliced), or the rack of lamb – it’s a delight! The tender meat, which is cooked to perfection, explodes with flavor and just melts in your mouth.

Producteur Français de Caviar

www.caviardeneuvic.com Le Comptoir 16 rue de l’Odéon 75006 Paris

Le Domaine La Grande Veyssière 24190 Neuvic

The Mac Mahon, a window to Parisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Star At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe, a treasure in luxury and modernism has recently reopened its doors after shedding its old skin. Interior designer Alexandre Danan signed this hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concept in a style between great empire and contemporary masterpiece.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .HOTEL . . . . . .... MAC MAHON

A DESIGN BETWEEN TRADITION AND MODERNISM Ideally situated at 3 Avenue Mac Mahon, the Hotel Champs-Élysées Mac Mahon is coiled in one of Paris’ superb and cherished Haussmann-style buildings. Inspired by Napoleonic and Gainsbourg styles, Alexandre Danan also channeled his hometown of Marseille along with the runway show for the creator of Jean-Paul Goude that he did on the Champs-Élysées a few years prior. The building’s architecture is enhanced through this powerful concept. Imagine Murano glass chandeliers in each bedroom that paint silhouettes onto the walls of graffiti from artist Vuk Vidor, along with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and the most exquisite furniture.

If you want originality, feast your eyes upon the entrance, where a rhinoceros head greets visitors of the Noham Cafe. This bar/lounge, tea parlor, and restaurant offers a pleasant terrace for those who want to gaze upon the Parisian regulars. Snack on the pastries that have been signed off on by Dalloyau. Revel here after work with friends and a drink or simply or just take a moment to taste French Epicureanism at its finest.

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Paris 17

THE NOHAM CAFE

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Floors 1 • Suite of the Mac Mahon hotel. 2 • One of the corridors with distinctive coloration. 3 • Room of the Mac Mahon hotel.

Suits

35 Rooms

Hôtel Maison Albar Champs-Elysées Mac Mahon 3, avenue Mac Mahon - 75017 Paris - France +33 (0)1 43 80 23 00 macmahon@book-inn-france.com www.hotel-champs-elysees-mac-mahon.com

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Different criteria based on comfort, service, accessibility, technology.

HIGH STANDING SERVICE Spread over six floors, the 35 rooms and five suits each reveal a unique universe of their own. Through shades of bronze, hints of leather, and tints of silver or gold, each hallway transports the gests and guides them through the true elegance of this place. The hotel team wanted to demonstrate the quality of hospitality that they strive to offer, and therefore the hotel has been analyzed and verified on 246 different criteria based on comfort, service, accessibility, and new technology. A ‘secret visit’ from an anonymous shopper completed this process and validated the hotel’s accent of high quality. This address wants nothing more than to please you.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .HOTEL . . . . . .... MAC MAHON

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4 • An example of the decoration and mood in one of the hotel’s suites. 5 • Large view of the suite.

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FRANCE | Savoie

COURCHEVEL: Ski slopes at Courchevel (outside the Three Valleys) • Resort elevation: 1,100 m (3,609 feet) • Elevation at the peak: Saulire mountain, 2,738 m (8,983 feet) • 96 slopes on 150 km (93 miles) • Day pass: 42.50€/Adults and 34€/Children |• www.courchevel.com

MEGÈVE: • Resort elevation: 1,113 – 2,350 m (3,652 - 7,710 feet) • Slope elevation 2,350 m (7,710 feet) • Slopes: the slopes descend from Mont-Joly to St-Nicholas-de-Véroce • 219 slopes on 445 km (276 miles) • Day pass: 43€/Adults and 36€/Children |• www.megeve.com

. . . . . . . . . . .TRAVEL . . . . . . . .JOURNAL . . . . . . . . .... PASSION SKI

Passion Ski

Luxury at the summit

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Skiing, this fierce passion set in the blistering cold, boiling ski suit, impractically large boots, and the utter chaos of it all. The French mountains are the number one worldwide destination, ahead of the United States and Austria not only for skiing, but also for rest and relaxation after skiing! Two ski resorts undeniably worth going out of your way for are: Courchevel and MĂŠribel.

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Snow is chic

Activities Heliskiing: |• www.guides-courchevel-meribel.com Snowcats, snowmobiles, and more: |• www.courchevelaventure.com Parachute ski jump: |• www.volbiplace-annecy.com Gyropode Segway: After a gyropod segway class on the snow, go out and ride through the forest trails. |• www.mobilboard.com

1 • In Courchevel, the tracks arrive at the village.

Its reputation for luxury is world-renowned. Courchevel turns grown men and women into excited, wide-eyed children once again as their hearts beat with excitement. The 600 km (373 miles) of slopes at Courchevel become their playground, the restaurants their cafeteria, the bars their 15 minutes of fame, and the hotels their fort. Courchevel attracts and allures amateur skiers and champions alike.

WHERE TO STAY

• Le Saint-Roch***** A sensational experience brought to you by Eric Tournier and Noëlle Bonnemaison. Where the welcome is elevated to an art form, and traditional French living is combined with modernity and warmth. Exquisite taste and hospitality at its purest. |• www.lesaintroch.com

• Le Saint-Joseph The very first hotel by the Tournier family (Le Saint-Roch). A familial atmosphere that will whisk you back to the 1950’s and leave you with a very different feeling. This hotel offers a refined, warm, and sophisticated hospitality seldom found elsewhere. |• www.lesaintjoseph.com

• L’Apogée Courchevel***** With its direct access to the slopes and its unique style, l’Apogée Courchevel offers an extraordinary view of the valley. An uncontested example of one of the greatest ski slopes in the world. |• www.lapogeecourchevel.com

• Hôtel Des 3 Vallées Courchevel’s pioneer luxury inn constructed in 1850 and entirely renovated in 2003. The 50’s modernist style combined with the comfort of a luxury hotel is in a class of all its own and offers a unique glimpse into history. |• www.hoteldes3vallees.com

. . . . . . . . . . .TRAVEL . . . . . . . .JOURNAL . . . . . . . . ....

TO EAT

• Carlina***** A restaurant where elegance and delicacy go hand in hand. A dream decor, this sublime restaurant that shares its name and high ceilings with the hotel, is home to chef Thierry Mathiault who enters the scene with a delicate and creative cuisine. |• www.hotelcarlina.com • Les Airelles (2 Michelin stars) Les Airelles is a storied place at Courchevel. Pierre Gagnaire, perpetual seeker and inventor of fine flavors, treats gourmet connoisseurs by virtue of his cultivated and creative cuisine. Order his specialty, “a corolla de homard bleu” (blue lobster wreath) dressed with a shellfish jelly as well as “Le Grand dessert” (Grand desert). |• www.airelles.fr • La Table Du Kilimanjaro (2 Michelin stars) The atmosphere is well heated thanks to the wood burning fire, but moreover thanks to the delicious gourmet procession from Gatien Demczyna who unveils the soul of his handpicked produce to give birth to true works of art. Order without any discussion,

4 the “ris de veau doré et truffe noire” (browned veal sweetbread and black truffles) and the “Saint-Pierre rôti safran de Savoie” (SaintPierre Savoyard saffron roast). |• www.hotelkilimandjaro.com • La Saulire This restaurant (2 toques in the Gault Millau Guide) needs no introduction. Everyone from connoisseurs to jetsetters and most importantly friends, flood to La Saulire. Order the “spécialité de la maison” (the grand house special) without a second thought: the black truffle, which finds its way into a number of chef Benoit Redondo’s creations. A marvelous sensation! |• www.lasaulire.com

5 2 • The Courchevel ski resort at the opening of the pistes. 3 • The pistes in the heart of the Alps mountains. 4 • Live in the heart of Courchevel festivities. 5 • One of the exotic views of the nature of the ski resort.

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PASSION SKI

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State of Luxury

Third largest slope in France, Megève is an exceptional resort situated at the gates of MontBlanc, from the bottom of the slopes all the way up to its mountainous sky. Timeless city where people come to see and to be seen, it was founded in 1906 by the Baroness Noémie de Rothschild, who wanted to create her own holiday retreat and wished to put the art of French living on display. She knew how to institute her elegance and prestige with a fair hand, which is still well preserved thanks to luxury brands and a Michelin starred restaurant. It is the perfect place to enjoy gentle spellbinding nights and crowded terraces where people wear their nicest ski suit or ski pants.

WHERE TO STAY

• M De Megève***** A five-star top class chalet hotel perfectly cozy, where people love to warm up by the open fire. A luxury hotel mixing French traditional architecture with a contemporary touch. An absolute must! |• www.mdemegeve.com • Le Fer À Cheval***** A five-star hotel, in an exceptional setting for unforgettable moments. A hotel from the 1960’s that became the symbol of know-how and living-well in the celebrated French tradition. |• www.feracheval-megeve.com

TO EAT • Le Chalet Zannier***** A five-star luxury hotel where simplicity and sophistication seamlessly reign together. A true refuge surrounded by a natural and peaceful environment, for a luxury experience in the Alps. |• www.lechaletzannier.com • Le Chalet du Mont D’arbois***** (Relais & Châteaux ) Taste the refined charm of this five-star hotel which offers supreme luxury in a perfectly preserved natural setting, at the foot of the colossal Mont-Blanc. |• www.relaischateaux.com

• La Ferme de mon Père A gourmet restaurant under the direction of Michelin-starred Julien Burlat whose elegant, refined cuisine combines the authenticity of French cuisine and a touch of creativity using only fresh ingredients from the finest local producers. |• www.fermedemonpère • Le Flocon de Sel The Relais & Châteaux’s gourmet restaurant. |• www.floconsdesel.com • L’alpette: For it’s unique, magnificent view. |• www.alpette-megeve.com • Le Chalet Du Mont D’arbois***** (Relais & Châteaux ), for the stars! |• www.relaischateaux.com

. . . . . . . . . . .TRAVEL . . . . . . . .JOURNAL . . . . . . . . .... PASSION SKI

1 • Large view of the mountains. 2 • The skiing area offers sensations of all levels. 3 • The station’s equipment is the best. 4 • Best place for all the family.

Activities

Megève Airport fly over Mont-Blanc in a plane. |• www.aerocime.com Dog Sled: day or night. |• www.montduvillard-nord.com Megève from above in a hot air ballon or paragliding, and the Calvary Way: pathway open year-round and lit all night. |• www.megeve.com Night snow/glacier walk. |• www.guides-megeve.com

THE MUST-DO • La Folie Douce Legendary events created in 1980, at the foot of the slopes. |• www.lafoliedouce.com • Le Georges Tea parlor with a traditional English design at the Hotel Mont-Blanc, and also a Champagne bar! |• www.hotelmontblanc.com

• Hotel Chalet Zannier lounge bar An open fireplace, books, cozy sofas and a terrace with an amazing view on the mountains. |• www.lechaletzannier.com

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• Megève Wine Lounge M - Le Vin A refined and elegant setting where prestigious as well as local wines will delight your palate. |• www.m-le-vin.fr

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NEWS ........... .................... CULTURE

Culture

Museum CENTRE POMPIDOU AN EXHIBITION AROUND THE BEAT GENERATION 22 june - 3 october 2016 The Centre Pompidou is to present Beat Generation, a novel retrospective dedicated to the literary and artistic movement born in the late 1940s that would exert an ever-growing influence for the next two decades. Foreshadowing the youth culture and cultural liberation of the 1960s, the Beat Generation emerged in the years following the Second World War. Then seen as subversive rebels, the Beats appear today as the representatives of one of the most important cultural movements of the 20th century – a movement the Centre Pompidou’s survey will examine in all its breadth and geographical amplitude, from New York to Los Angeles, from Paris to Tangier. Infos: +33 (0)1 44 78 12 33 • Metro Hôtel de Ville, Rambuteau Open every day from 11 am to 9 pm except on Tuesday |• www.centrepompidou.fr

THE LOUVRE INVITES THE YOUTUBERS Since January 2016, the Louvre has been giving carte blanche to three youtubers in making films about the museum, its works and history. Nota Bene, The Gravedigger Movies and Axolot took up the challenge, each one with two videos. Discover the Louvre at www.youtube.com/user/ louvre and the youtubers’ YouTube channels. These films provide six different looks on the largest museum in the world, its rooms, its collections. Open all week from 9 am to 6 pm (9.45 pm on Wednesday and Friday evenings). Closed on Tuesday |• www.louvre.fr

THE PALACE OF VERSAILLES MEETS GUERLAIN PERFUMES The Queen’s Bouquet: a limited-edition, numbered Guerlain perfume to benefit the restoration of Versailles. Born of the initiative and reflection of two prestigious companies that embody France’s expertise and excellence, created by perfumer Thierry Wasser, the Queen’s Bouquet was inspired by the gardens of Versailles and Trianon. The fragrance will be sold exclusively by subscription from 17 February to 17 May 2016. Limited edition, numbered. Online subscription at: |• www.bouquetdelareine. chateauversailles.fr Subscription forms available at the Librairie des Princes (Versailles) and the Guerlain boutique (68, avenue des Champs Elysées, 75008 Paris)

LOUIS VUITTON FOUNDATION This newly constructed building opened to great acclaim in 2014. Its stunning architecture has already become a staple of the contemporary art scene. Created on the initiative of Bernard Arnault of the prestigious LVMH group, its Californian architect Frank Gehry is internationally renowned. On a floor area of over 1,100 m2 and lying south of Paris Zoological gardens on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, the soaring glass and metal structure rises over 40 meters high. It took 700 workers and eight years to build. During your visit, sample the restaurant: your taste buds will appreciate the food on offer as much as your eyes will enjoy the architecture around you. |• www. fondationlouisvuitton.fr

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ARAB WORLD INSTITUTE

THE MUSEUM:

Institut du Monde Arabe

In 2012, the museum of the Arab World Institute, headed by Éric Delpont, reopened to the public after a series of adjustments concerning its line and the exhibitions’ staging.

FRANCE | Paris 5th INSTITUT DU MONDE ARABE (ARAB WORLD INSTITUTE) 1, rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard Place Mohammed V - 75005 Paris +33 (0)1 40 51 38 38 |• www.imarabe.org

The museum’s thematic itinerary has been refocused around the plurality of the Arab world as it defines itself today at ethnic, linguistic, denominational and cultural levels. Labeled with the honorary designation “Musée de France” (“Museum of France”) guaranteeing visitors an enriching experience, its permanent collections have also been enhanced with contemporary and older artistic works. To achieve a deeper approach, collections from the greatest museums of France are regularly loaned to the AWI. Some rare pieces of work from Antique and Medieval archeology are exhibited, as well as items of arts and crafts and modern or contemporary art.

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. . . . . . .VISIT . . . . .TO . . . THE . . . . .MUSEUM . . . . . . . ....

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2016 Exhibitions

In 2016, three major exhibitions will punctuate the Arab World Institute’s programme. At the arrival of spring, the museum will host the exhibition “Les Jardins d’Orient” (“Oriental gardens”). This event will turn the building’s forecourt into a fabulous ephemeral garden of roses and orange trees, palm trees and jasmines. Visitors will be invited to lose themselves in an itinerary of colours and perfumes before being told the history of gardens from the Arab-Muslim world to India.

2 2 • Garden of a palace overlooking a lake and hills, Hyderabad (India) circa 1750, gouache on paper, inv. 781, Fondation Custodia, Collection Frits Lugt, Paris. 3 • Mausoleum of Akbar at Sikandra (India), early 19th century, Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Islamic Art (MSS 886) 3

1 • Fountain panel, Ottoman Empire, second half of the 16th century. Ceramic and metal, R-3029, Londres, Furusiyya Art Foundation.

SAIMA PRIZE CEREMONY

The AWI’s network of Friends launches the first “SAIMA Prize for Arab Contemporary Creation”. Candidates subjected to an experienced judging panel had a reflection around environmental issues and sustainable development: gardens and urbanism in the development of cities of the Arab world. A very appropriate topic since the prize-giving ceremony is incorporated within the framework of the exhibition “Jardins d’Orient”.

. . . . . . .VISIT . . . . .TO . . . THE . . . . .MUSEUM . . . . . . . ....

WORLD INSTITUTE AU MUSÉE DEARAB L'INSTITUT DU MONDE ARABE

BIJOUX ET PARURES DU MAGHREB

Gabriel Veyre in his Casablanca house, Gabriel Veyre, circa 1935, Autochrome, Fondation Gabriel Veyre. In september, the exhibition “Biskra, reine du désert” (“Biskra, queen of the desert”) will allow to rediscover the town and oasis of the same name through photographs.

A tourist attraction center, Biskra has been an inspiration and a creatively stimulating town for painters like Henri Matisse, writers like André Gide and musicians such as Béla Bartok, for instance. It later became the adopted home of young, more contemporary artists coming from – and trained in – Algiers.

EXPOSITION MUSÉE DU 12 FÉVRIER AU 28public AOÛT 2016the Till August 2016, theAUInstitute will offer the unprecendented opportunity to discover an outstanding 1, rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard, Place Mohammed V - 75005 Paris mardi au vendredi de 10h à 18h, exhibition ofdu Maghreb will 01 40 51 38witness 38 - imarabe.org the samedi, dimanche et joursjewelry. fériés de 10h à 19hVisitors craft and, first and foremost, the inventiveness of jewellery craftspeople from Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia from 1850 to the first half of the 20th century.

PERMANENT EXHIBITIONS

The Louvre and Quai Branly museums share their collections with the AWI, as well as some museums from the founding countries of the AWI. Thus, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Bahrain and Tunisia regularly supply the museum’s collections.

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Barbad, hidden in a cypress, playing for the King. Iran, Tabriz circa 1535, Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Islamic Art (MSS 1030 fol. 731a).

Bowl, Iran, 12th/13th century, Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Islamic Art (POT 12).

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Shows at the Arab World Institute.

ÂŠ Alice Sidoli

THE AWI THINK TANK

ÂŠ Alice Sidoli

The Arab World Institute also presents a very expansive programme around Arts to better understand and comprehend the issues of Arab culture. 2016 is devoted to musical and choregraphic journeys between traditional and innovative aesthetics. The selection of screenings and debates follows the news. The AWI regularly presents readings, films and debates around topical issues. The ambition is to better grasp all the aspects of information to achieve better understanding.

AU MUSÉE DE L'INSTITUT DU MONDE ARABE

BIJOUX ET PARURES DU MAGHREB

EXPOSITION AU MUSÉE

DU 12 FÉVRIER AU 28 AOÛT 2016

du mardi au vendredi de 10h à 18h, samedi, dimanche et jours fériés de 10h à 19h

1, rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard, Place Mohammed V - 75005 Paris 01 40 51 38 38 - imarabe.org

I am passionate about art and culture. I couldn’t live differently than in motion, discovering new talents and new ideas.

Jack Lang

The resplendence of French culture as a course of action

HIS EXPERIENCE Jack Lang is a French politician, and a former Minister for Culture and for Education. The background of the current president of the Arab World Institute (AWI) is punctuated by significant experiences, particularly in the field of culture. Having held key positions localy as well as international prestigious functions, he has been working towards cultural exchanges between many countries.

Is it important to host foreign cultures in French museums to make ourselves better known beyond our territory? Since always – having applied it myself in the practice of several responsibilities – the more France is welcoming towards artists, creators, scientists and intellectuals but also towards students, research workers and companies, the easier exchanges are with the countries of those citizens. For instance, I created the World Theatre Festival in Nancy; it welcomed the whole world, and at the same time the artistic, intellectual and even political image of France found recognition. In South and North America, Asia and Africa, France made itself known among the youths of those countries. For that matter, I often insisted upon bringing culture of all the countries in the world

to our theatres museums such as the Théâtre National de Chaillot, championed this idea. Many figures from our neighbouring countries have also been given key positions, such as at the Théâtre de l’Europe or at the Opéra Garnier. So this is a matter of a real cultural mixing bowl here. Indeed, with two levels of exchanges: the actions brilliantly carried out on site by the Alliance Française and the cultural institutions, and some private initiatives as well, complemented by the personalities coming from those neighbouring states. These persons also become great cultural ambassadors, even more in their countries of origin.

I have a passion for action, not for its own worth but for transforming things.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .INTERVIEW . . . . . . . . . .... JACK LANG

THE MAN OF PERFORMING ARTS Apart from being the creator of the World Theatre Festival in Nancy, he is the man behind the World Music Day, which takes place every year in June. On this day – June 21, which most often coincides with the first day of summer in the French calendar – all the amateur and professional musicians and singers, whether soloists or bands, are invited to occupy a corner of the street or of an auditorium to play a few notes of rock’n’roll or classical music. Its instant success has been recurring every year since 1982.

3 & 4 • Jack Lang at one of the many events of the AWI.

6 5 • A tribute to the Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 2016. 6 • Jack Lang during an interview.

2 1 • The street art exhibition. 2 • One of the many meetings of 2015. 5

Your first speech as French Minister for Culture before the National Assembly stated that “Economy and culture are fighting the same battle”; are these words still relevant today? When I pronounced these few words, a number of people disapproved. Some artists were worried about being left in the hands of finance, while businessmen patronised culture. This remark caused a stir. Things have changed since then. You can’t go too far in the exploitation of culture, a balance needs to be struck. Where are we up to with the French idea of ‘cultural exception’? Safeguard or constraint on culture? “Exception” alone would be more relevant,

as it must be specific to each town and country. History, heritage and contemporary creation must be protected. The most important thing is to conceive of an arts and culture policy that gives a chance to new generations. Cultural exception, and therefore protection from all mercantile attitude around it, must first and foremost focus on every shape and form of culture. How is the French cultural policy coming along today? I don’t have a real diagnosis. However, despite some restrictions I regret, I must say that cultural advisors, institutional investors or even foreign interlocutors are giving culture an incredible presence. LINK n° 1

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Does the AWI have a role to play in a complex, burning context related to the Arabic culture? We have been hoping to work on the Arabic culture since the origin; not more with the current world climax linked to terrorist attacks. We look to highlight the whole revival of the Arab world and all the positive facets of this culture. It is not a matter of propaganda, it is a real work to highlight the occurring societal changes even sometimes non-official ones. Let’s take the example of Egypt, which is experiencing a real transformation through its culture, artists, creators and filmmakers. We find it important that the Arab world of yesterday and today appear in all its vitality and diversity, as we display it through exhibitions, film screenings and concerts at the AWI.

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Choosing a business school: a quest of many challenges The great post-high school course search is opening in France. The baccalaureate diploma recognises achievements gained over three years of general education, sometimes paired with a specialised subject. The great rush to choose one’s post-baccalaureate course especially takes place in the field of business schools. Choices are made according to the specialised teachings offered, the schools’ levels of excellence, as well as the student’s course plan.

The offer of higher education in France and its level are one of the country’s forces. Indeed, numbers of foreign students come to study in our schools or complete their courses with one of the specialised trainings proposed.The race for excellence has made the reputation of France’s higher education. How to get in the best schools? What curriculum should one take to achieve graduation leading to an interesting position?

PREP COURSES FOR GRANDES ECOLES: THE BEST WAY OR THE ONLY WAY? Nowadays, admission to the top business schools can be achieved either right out of high school or after a preparatory course.

The choice of entering a school directly or after a two-year preparation will depend on the curriculum targeted by the student, after comparing the specificities of each institution.

UNIVERSAL TRAINING OR SCHOOL-SPECIFIC TRAINING? In France, two categories of training exist to prepare for entrance exams to the «grandes écoles». Classes known as «preparatory» train students to prepare for the proposed competitive exam. Such courses also provide knowledge for the student to better follow his future curriculum. The general culture required in the following school years is already being given in these trainings. The

best known preparatory classes are Louis Le Grand, Henry IV, Charlemagne, Hoche and St. Genevieve. Some schools have recently been offering another form of training. Business schools now offer trainings integrated to their curriculum to allow students to train in the perspective of their future school, to increase their chances of returning to the desired course. Business schools and colleges offer such trainings to integrate students into their networks according to their levels and the special fields they aim at. As of today, 24 French schools offer English-speaking programs allowing them to open their doors to students from all over the world. This rich multicultural mixing results in the training of international elites.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EDUCATION . . . . . . . . . . .... BUSINESS SCHOOL

RANKING OF SCHOOLS RECRUITING AT THE HIGH-SCHOOL GRADUATE LEVEL: IESEG Lille or Paris |• www.ieseg.fr ESSCA Angers |• www.essca.fr PSB Paris |• www.psbedu.paris EDC Paris |• www.edcparis.edu

“Across the world, millions of students look for Master’s degrees in an English-speaking environment. While 20 years ago, they would have most likely turned towards the United States or Great Britain, now they are willing to come to France to attend management schools with courses conducted entirely in English”, Olivier Aptel, Director General of the ESC Rennes School of Business.

THE ESC RENNES CASE The ESC Rennes School of Business is the only one to enable all of its students to follow a graduate school programme in English. With already 80% of teachers and 50% of students of foreign nationalities (Germany, Spain, India, Mexico...), the school intends to take things further. By the end of 2015, it obtained its AACSB and EQUIS international accreditations, giving it an international standing

ESCE Paris, Lyon |• www.esce.fr Ipag Paris, Nice |• www.ipag.fr

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“Nowadays, a school’s growth is conditioned by international recruitment” reckons INSEEC Business School Dean Jacques Chaniol (Paris, Bordeaux and Chambéry campuses).

EM Normandie |• www.ecole-management-normandie.fr

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. . . . . . . . . . .INVEST . . . . . . .IN . . FRANCE . . . . . . . .... JEAN-YVES HEYER

Jean-Yves Heyer An excellence, niche market France’s economic activity is distributed around four major geographical areas: coastal and sunny regions are conducive to development, 50% of the economic activity being located in these areas. Then, two cities share out 30% of the activity: Paris – France’s capital city – and Lyon, which is the second biggest city of the country as well as an important industrial basin. As for the rest of the country, let’s mention the great Paris Basin, with cities such as Tours, Lille, Rouen and Reims. The latter occupies 7% of the aforementioned employment base in. “We are part of a niche sector with multiple advantages.” Sailing points “When a company wishes to obtain information about the area, we commit to answer their request within 24 hours.” With a team of experts, Jean-Yves Heyer bets on a dynamic city that is aware of its very enjoyable living environment. Depending on the company’s needs, town planning, financing, information and logistics issues are addressed to devise the best support solutions for the structure.

“In this battle for territorial attractiveness, we prove competitive.” A proof of that lies in the network of ambassadors which represents a turnover of 1,000 billion euros. “16 CAC-40 bosses are on our territory, as well as 29 SBF-120 bosses. Companies such as Coyote, Le Bon Coin and DMD Santé partly set up in Reims and grew within the region.” Furthermore, this is the first gastronomic region of France in terms of starred restaurants, which promises an enjoyable lifestyle. Indeed, JeanYves Heyer also understood that in the virtuous circle of economy, a city has to meet a company’s needs just as much as to be welcoming, as far as its living environment is concerned, so that it can attract families and above all retain them. Reims took up the challenge of drawing families into a new employment base in favourable to economic development and to an enjoyable living environment. Facilities for families and young couples in a town served by high-speed train: Reims is now in the immediate proximity of Paris, but with a better quality of life.

My motto: straight to the point

HIS EXPERIENCE

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After a conjoint degree in econometrics and European marketing, he started a career in territorial marketing after an enriching experience at Renault UK. He dove into the business by developing the Territoire de Belfort with the local team of councillors of the time. He renewed the experience in Orléans before being recruited to create the Invest in Reims agency.

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FRANCE | Normandy Assembled in Dieppe â&#x20AC;˘ 100 km/h in barely more than 4 seconds |â&#x20AC;˘ https://alpinecars.com

Monaco, February 16, 2016. They are all there: Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn, current and future Alpine CEOs Bernard Olivier and Michael Van der Sande, even Prince Albert. More than 20 years after the discontinuation of its production, Alpine is coming back to life, positioning itself on the premium sports car segment.

. . . . . . .IN . . THE . . . . .WORKSHOP . . . . . . . . . . . .OF . .... ALPINE

French-style elegance

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in the automobile industry

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2 For the occasion, 80 collectors were invited to discover the new Alpine Vision. Along the harbour, their A110s line up in an impeccable metallic-blue angled row. The “berlinette” designed by visionary driver and manufacturer Jean Rédélé gained prestige in the 1970s. Crowned World Rally Champion in 1973, this small, agile, daring car went down in history and conquered the hearts of enthusiasts.

According to model designer Anthony Villain, the whole challenge lied in achieving a perfect balance between heritage and modernity. Mission accomplished. The rounded bonnet, the outline of the rear windscreen, the vintage atmosphere aboard and the extra headlights refer to the iconic berlinette. The specifications of this little coupé build less on hyper-power than on the agility and lightness which constitute its DNA. “The Alpine is the only car to bear the name of its terrain. Its playful temperament expresses itself best on winding mountain roads. Its outstanding aerodynamic efficiency gives the driver an unrivalled sense of gliding,” Anthony Villain explains. Accurate and sharp, the Alpine Vision becomes one with the environment, for exclusive driving pleasure. No detail left to chance in its design. The refined finish is the hallmark of a certain French elegance. Its flanks are marked with an arrowpierced A. Inside, black quilted leather with blue topstitching coats the bucket seats and door trims. The centre console seems to be floating inside the cabin. The harness belts, coupled with brushedaluminium buckles, and the circular stopwatch will take you to the

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ALPINE

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1 • Dashboard. 2 • Low beam. 3 • Diamond finish rim. 4 • Exhaust. 5 • Alpine Vision show car. 6 • 1971 - Jean Rédélé at the Alpine factory in Dieppe. 7 • 1973 - Monte-Carlo Rally. Renault Alpine A110. 8 • 1971 - Cévennes Rally. Renault Alpine A110.

Finally, the veil is lifted. Straight away the Alpine Vision presents the dynamic lines of a sublime sports car: a low, sharp design, a punchy front end, diamond finish rims, a lowered rear-end, a galactic bench... “This show-car prefigures 80 to 90% of the car that will be commercialised in 2017”, Carlos Ghosn announces.

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world of competition. Drivers will enjoy high tech equipment (a TFT screen underneath a carbon cowling, a multimedia touch-screen tablet), while blue backlighting plunges the passenger compartment into an ultra-contemporary atmosphere. The new Alpine holds a four-cylinder turbo engine that will propel it at 100 km/h in barely more than 4 seconds.

Assembled in Dieppe (the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic birthplace), it benefits from the expertises of Renault Sport and F1 technologies, which give it full legitimacy to find its place among high-end sports cars. With its rich history and a future to look forward to, the Alpine Vision belongs to a world of elegance. More than a vehicle, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a way of life.

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Tourism in figures

The total value of investment in tourism amounts to 13 billion euros, 50% of which operated in the hotel and catering industry sector. Franceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism sector contributes to training and professional integration with more than 9,000 young people in training.

International tourism in France. Travelers come from:

USA

EUROPE AFRICA

ASIA AND OCEANIA

France is the most visited country in the world, with

st 110 million visitors expected in 2020

. . . . . . . .TOURISM . . . . . . . . . IN . . .FIGURES . . . . . . . .... IN FRANCE

The supply of commercial accommodation in France on January 1st 2015

143,800

Total commercial accommodation facilities (5,392,100 beds)

18,100 N°5 • ITALY

N°4 • CHINA

N°3 • SPAIN

N°2 • USA

2,300

holiday accommodations (699,400 beds)

N°1 • FRANCE

hotels (1,283,600 beds)

The top 5 international tourism destinations

Average length of stay:

SOCIAL NETWORKS 2,888,199 likes 1,019,842 twits

Source: the French Directorate-General for enterprise the French association for professional accommodation and tourism

110,534 likes

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nights in 2014

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INSTITUT FRANÇAIS DU QATAR FRENCH FOR EVERYONE! Whether you need French for personal or professional reasons, whether you are a beginner or an experienced speaker, we have a course adapted to your expectations and needs!

The IFQ belongs to France’s international cultural network -the largest cultural network in the worldwhich promotes France’s public cultural action abroad, and particularly the teaching of the French language.

ALL THE LANGUAGE AND CULTURAL OFFER ON WWW.INSTITUTFRANCAIS-QATAR.COM

Public opening times: 8.30 am to 7.00 pm from Sunday to Thursday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on Saturday. T: 44 93 08 62 @: info@institutfrancais-qatar.com

Institut français du Qatar Al Inshira Street, 135 Westbay (near the Kenya Embassy)

ifq.doha2 ifq.doha ifq.doha

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Welcome to the local edition

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His Excellency

Eric Chevallier, French Ambassador to Qatar

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .INTERVIEW . . . . . . . . . .... ERIC CHEVALLIER

How do you explain this excellent outcome? When you think about France, you first think about fine arts, culture and heritage. People want to visit France to discover its beautiful regions, historic sites and famous museums such as the Louvre, where the Mona Lisa can be seen, or the Musée d’Orsay, displaying a unique collection of Impressionist paintings. Moreover, people from the five continents also come to discover our gastronomy, which is considered the best in the world, and this is precisely why the famous Chef Alain Ducasse, together with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has launched the "Goût de France / Good France" initiative. This year, it will take place here in Qatar, in March, where many restaurants, in association with the French Embassy in Doha, will take part in the second edition of this worldwide event. Around the world, 1,500 chefs will prepare more than 1,500 menus. If I get it well, France has way more to offer than just Paris? Sure! France can’t be reduced to the Champs-Élysées, even though it is the most wonderful shopping boulevard in the world. Actually, if I had to sum up France in one word, that would be diversity. Its landscapes are extremely diverse: you can ski in the Alps, swim along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, walk between lavender fields in Provence, or hike in Auvergne. But architecture in France is just as diverse, from the medieval houses of Strasbourg, to the modern Louvre Pyramid, through the unique Chateaux de la Loire, the classical Chateau de Versailles,

the Paris Haussman style buildings, or the Arab World Institute, a building designed by the famous architect Jean Nouvel… So, France may interest every kind of visitors? Yes, in addition to our landscapes and historical heritage, we have broadened our offer to visitors. As you may know, entertainment now has a large market share in tourism industry. Well, it happens that Europe’s most visited theme park, DisneyLand, is only a few kilometers away from Paris. Visitors can also have fun in the Asterix Park, the cinema-based Futuroscope Park in Poitiers, or the Puy du Fou, a park dedicated to historical shows. Many foreigners enjoy relaxing in the French thalasso hotels, in Biarritz,

"At the French Embassy in Qatar, we have developed a program to make sure every Qatari citizen is granted a visa within 48 hours"

on the French Riviera but also in Brittany for example. Furthermore, in addition to the more traditional museums I have already mentioned, new modernist ones have opened, such as the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations in Marseille. Finally, hosting the most prestigious France fashion houses, like Chanel, Hermes, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Christian Lacroix, even young designers, Paris remains the world capital for fashion. But is France all about culture and leisure? Not at all! We are proud of our past but we

also look forward. This is why France offers many modern services attracting visitors from all around the world. France is a world leader in organizing business travels and international conventions. France also turns out to be a land where start-ups flourish thanks to the construction of incubators like the NUMA in Paris, EuraTech in Lille, or the Halle Freyssinet, the world’s largest digital business incubator, due to open this year in Paris. At the ‘104’, young artists have a place at their disposal to work on their productions. Does your government implement special policies tourism-wise? Yes, many plans have been implemented in order to improve the quality of our services to foreigners. At the French Embassy in Qatar, we have developed a program to make sure every Qatari citizen is granted a visa within 48 hours. In France, the government has taken all the necessary measures to ensure everyone’s safety. Finally, thanks to the Schengen agreements, foreigners can travel to most European countries with their visa issued by the French authorities, and then come back when they want to. In 2016, are there special events you would advise people to attend? As every year, people may attend many events in all fields ranging from movies to fashion, not to mention gastronomy, paintings exhibition and so on! I’d like to focus on sport. 2016 is going to be a sports year! From June 10 to July 10, the UEFA Euro 2016 is to take place in France. During a month, all the best football teams in Europe will compete in ten stadiums across the country. Visitors will also be pleased to attend the RolandGarros tennis open, or the famous Tour de France, a unique cycling competition which allows you to travel through many of the most amazing French landscapes.

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Is France still the most visited country in the world? Absolutely! France has been ranking first for more than 25 years, and although competition is high, over 84 million tourists visit our country every year.

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PORTRAIT . . . . . . . . ....

MOUNIA CHEKHAB-ABUDAYA

Mounia

Chekhab-Abudaya,

under the charm of the Arab world

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My wish is to work at the Ministry of Culture and, why not, the Louvre museum.

........................................................................... Dr. Mounia Chekhab-Abudaya, curator of the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha.

This young 30-year-old, ambitious and determined Parisienne settled in Qatar 3 years ago after defending a thesis on the history of Islamic art. As the current curator of the city’s Museum of Islamic Art, she splits her time between her passion for art – especially architecture – and her life as a young connected woman.

• Is the Qatar Museum of Islamic Art a reference in the global art world? Yes the Museum of Islamic Art has definitely become one of the references worldwide for its architecture, its collections and exhibitions. One of the interesting challenges here as a curator is that one is able to be creative in terms of collection development and display possibilities. The museum is a young

Museum of Islamic Art in Doha at night.

institution, which gives many opportunities for a young curator. • Did your French nationality favour the museum’s relations with French Islamic art? I have relations with the Arab World Institute, the Louvre and the National Library of France. And above all, many collaborations, I think, will be carried out through the Qatar-France Year of Culture which will take place in a few years. • What is your typical Qatari day like? I usually get up early, around 6 am. I start work around 7 am and finish around 3 pm. Then, my afternoons depend on what I feel like; I usually play sport then I work again at home on personal research projects which have nothing to do with the museum. In the evening, I see friends, I go out for dinner or so.

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• In 2011 you applied for a position in Qatar, quite an unusual destination for an academic. I knew the lifestyle here would be quite a change compared to Paris, but the scope of possibilities in my field of expertise was significant. I’m a woman of challenges, and this was a serious one. I always thought having such an international experience would be rewarding for my career path.

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“I had been to Qatar before and had visited the Museum of Islamic Art in 2009”

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• What are the advantages of your experience in Doha as far as you are concerned? The network I built here is really important. I met all the bigwigs of my sector, as they come here to see the pieces, and I am really fortunate for that. This is a internationally-known collection, which attracts experts. • What is your best experience in Qatar? I would say the exhibition I put on in 2013 around the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, in association with the British Museum. To this day, this is the most successful exhibition of the Museum of Islamic Art in terms of visitors. In 13 weeks we had 62,000 visitors. It was the finest experience I have had here.

I did not merely bring the exhibition from London as it appeared here – like other institutions did; I meant to discover what Qatar’s collections held in relation with the theme of the exhibition, and I managed to put on the exhibition with 90% of the objects we have here, which nobody would have imagined. We used collections from the Qatar Museums as well, not only from the Museum of Islamic Art but also from Mathaf the Modern Arab Art Museum, important photographs, and private collections. I wanted to use numerous spaces of the museum, which was very challenging at first at management level; I insisted and it turned out to work really well. We had a large contemporary

art installation, we had a whole exhibition set up of contemporary photographers from different nationalities, and so on. I managed to convince them and it went off very well. • What do you like about France? Freedom of thought and speech. Freedom in general. I don’t know if people in France realize how precious what we have is. Having the right to do what one wants. I’d say, opportunities as well, that is, if one aims at doing something, it’s possible. There’s not necessarily an obstacle. For the rest, financial obstacles may occur, as elsewhere. This country gives everyone his chance, at all levels, I think.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PORTRAIT . . . . . . . . ....

MOUNIA CHEKHAB-ABUDAYA

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1 • The Katara Amphitheater. 2 • Katara is a cultural village in Doha. 3 • Cafe with a view of downtown Doha slyline. 4 • Doha skyline through the arches of the Museum of Islamic art. 5 • Dhows moored off the Museum park in central Doha, Arabia, with some of the buildings from the city’s commercial port in the background.

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Shopping A DELICACY IN DESSANCE Nested in a town house of the Marais, Dessance is the first gourmet dessert bar ever set in Paris. This cocoon address challenges the codes of fooding, offering a new sweet taste experience to guests, sharing "formules" of multiple desserts and wine pairings, teas, juices or alcohols. In its open kitchen overlooking the dining room, the talented pastry chef Christophe Boucher (ex Grand Véfour and Ledoyen), creates instant and ephemeral masterpieces that blow away all ready-made ideas, in marrying new flavors over carefully chosen delicious architectures. Unique. |• Dessance, 74 rue des Archives, Paris 3rd - Phone +33 (0)1 42 77 23 26

LOUBOUTIN: ULTRA-POPULAR VARNISHES A few steps away from its historical address, shoemaker Christian Louboutin has dressed the soles of the most iconic women worldwide. He has extended his praise of beauty to a lacquer line to which he has dedicated a new address to. In this shop with white walls and velvety blue Hainaut stone floors, varnishes wearing an oversized conical plug are on display in niches in the likes of precious jewels. Pure luxury of lacquers shine with vibrant colors Nudes, Blacks, Pops, without forgetting the shiny and so desirable Louboutin Red. |• Vernis Christian Louboutin, 8 galerie Véro-Dodat, Paris 1er - Phone +33 (0)1 53 00 20 59 (© Julien Oppenheim)

CAPTIVATING CIGAR BAR Nestled in the heart of the hotel de la Maison Champs-Elysees*****, a private house located two streets away from the most beautiful avenue in the world, the famous cigar bar celebrates the curls of smoke of its cigar lovers. With its raw wood paneling, its black floor and its large leather club chairs, this elitist place with a splendid décor by Maison Martin Margiela, makes you feel suspended in time. It provides cigar enthusiasts an ultra classy and customized comfort. The delicious cocktails from the head barman of the "Blind Bar" are perfect accompaniment to those special moments. |• Cigar Bar, Hotel La Maison Champs-Elysées, 8 rue Jean Goujon, Paris 8th - Phone +33 (0)1 40 74 64 65

Total is proud to celebrate

Must-Have

N° 5

Chanel N° 5 is a precious alchemy of more than eighty ingredients that are then sealed inside an iconic handmade bottle.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ORIGINS Created in 1921 by Ernest Beaux at the request of Mademoiselle Coco Chanel this perfume was intended to represent the refined image of Chanel. Two series of numbered samples were then created and the fifth sample was chosen.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . THE NOTES OF N° 5 The top notes consist of neroli, lemon and bergamot. At the heart of the perfume lies ylangylang and jasmine. The background notes are vetiver and sandalwood. Coco Chanel wanted a perfume that was chic, classic and opulent.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CELEBRITIES Athough she was not the official muse, Marylin Monroe became the most iconic celebrity associated with Chanel N° 5. When asked what she wore in bed, she replied "Chanel N° 5 of course!"

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . THE BOTTLE Since the birth of the fragrance the bottle has only ever had five designs. The style has been consistent: a simple rectangular shape with a facetted silouette that subtly represents both classic simpliciy and Art Deco femininity.

|• www.chanel.com

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. . . . . . . . NUMBERS One bottle of Chanel N°5 is sold every two seconds in the world which represents an astonishing ten million bottles a year. (www.planetoscope.com)

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Fascinating

More than a department store, Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann is a symbol of the French art of living. Relying on a subtle, constantly renewed range of brands â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the most accessible to the most prestigious â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Boulevard Haussmann department store fits in the mood of the times with panache, offering as a bonus a host of services to make shopping an unforgettable moment.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLACE . . . . . . .TO . . .BE . ....

LES GALERIES LAFAYETTE PARIS HAUSSMANN

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• 70,000 m²

Paris 9th

spread over three buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...............................

• 15,000 m²

dedicated to women’s fashion with more than 350 brands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...............................

• 10,000 m² dedicated to men’s fashion with more than 250 brands

The best of fashion design Spreading over 70,000 m² and graced by its Neo-Byzantine dome, the store is known and renowned all over the world. Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann offers lively, multiple and pluralist fashion. The Boulevard Haussmann department store – the Parisian jewel of the brand – offers a unique shopping experience to its visitors. Welcome to the world’s largest store. Over almost 15,000 m² spread on three

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• 5,000 m²

floors, the widest wardrobe of international women’s fashion brings together nearly 350 brands, half of which come from all over the world. Exclusively dedicated to luxury and designers, the first floor is an original space offering an exceptional pathway, within a 2,000 m² setting that gathers renowned labels and avant-garde signatures.

dedicated to children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...............................

• 20 millions visitors a year

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A few facts:

Today, the famous brand enjoys worldwide recognition. In Paris, Galeries Lafayette is considered as a monument and is among the most visited places, just behind the Eiffel Tower.

Lafayettes Galeries Paris Haussmann, the temple of fashion in Paris

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Dive into the heart of Lafayettes Galleries Paris Haussmann

• Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, 40, boulevard Haussmann, Paris 9th Phone: +33 (0)1 42 82 36 40 Monday to Saturday from 9.30 am to 8 pm, Thursday evenings until 9.00 pm |• www.haussmann. galerieslafayette.com/en

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Personal shoppers: a bespoke shopping service Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann opens the doors to a luxurious and exclusive world for their VIP customers. Experts in fashion and French art of living provide their foreign clientèle with a unique experience through tailor-made services, and a fully dedicated team of personal shoppers. For those willing to shop in total privacy, private rooms are available by appointment only. • Style consulting: Galeries Lafayette’s experts assist you in building up the wardrobe that suits you. • Beauty department: Skincare, beauty treatments, hairdressing... Enjoy a relaxing time after your shopping session. • Hands-free shopping: Pay for your purchases in an elegant and pleasant place in total privacy. • Alterations: No need to wait to wear your clothes anymore thanks to fast alteration services. • Express delivery: All your purchases are delivered in no time in your Parisian residence. • Tax refunds: Instant cash refunds for non-European Union residents. ON REQUEST: make an appointment with the personalised services by calling +33 (0)1 42 82 83 88 or vip@galerieslafayette.com

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