Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CANNES TO BIOT
Cannes
POP 74,445
Walking among the couture shops and palaces of La Croisette, you'd be forgiven for think-
ing that the global downturn was all media hype. There is as much wealth and glamour as
ever, and admiring Ferraris and Porsches and celebrity spotting on the liner-sized yachts are
still favourite Cannes pastimes.
For those who aren't seduced by Cannes' hedonistic air, there's enough natural beauty to
make a trip worthwhile: the harbour, the bay, the clutch of islands off the coast and the old
quarter, Le Suquet, all spring into life on a sunny day.
As for the world-famous film festival, it is unfortunately not the most visitor-friendly
event: think stratospheric prices and insider- only attendance. It is, however, celebrity spot-
ting at its very best!
Sights & Activities
La Croisette
The multi-starred hotels and couture shops that line the famous bd de la Croisette (aka La
Croisette) may be the preserve of the rich and famous, but anyone can enjoy the palm-
shaded promenade and take in the atmosphere. In fact, it's a favourite amongst Cannois
(natives of Cannes), particularly at night when it's lit with bright colours.
There are great views of the bay and nearby Estérel mountains, and stunning art deco ar-
chitecture among the seafront palaces, such as the
Martinez
or the legendary
Carlton In-
terContinental
- its twin cupolas were modelled on the breasts of the courtesan La Belle
Otéro, infamous for her string of lovers - Tsar Nicholas II and Britain's King Edward VII
among them.
Not so elegant but imposing nonetheless is the
Palais des Festivals
Offline map
Google map
(Festival Palace; blvd de la Croisette)
at the western end of the prom, host of
the world's most glamorous film festival. Climb the red carpet, walk down the auditorium,
ARCHITECTURE
