Cannes : Glamour and the blue sea

There is more to France than city of Paris. When I thought of Cannes, the first thing that came into my mind is Cannes film festival and with it, vivid images of movie stars, with all the glitz and glamor, walking the ramp in their shiny clothes. When I reached Cannes, the images started to change, one superimposed on another. On one side is a storybook landscape courtesy mother nature, the other man made heaven. Quite a contrast, quite amazing, it takes little longer for the feeling to sink in.

Cannes is part of French Riviera, known in France as the Cote d’Azur. The Riviera is set of beautiful cities dotting the coast line including among othersNice and Saint Tropez. The beaches of French Riviera are famous throughout Europe as most glamorous and hottest.The Riviera is one destination in Europe that should not be missed.

Like everybody who visits Cannes, My first destination was the beaches. The Sunny, Sandy and U-Shaped beaches are something right from the catalogue of dreamland. Perennially busy Croisette Boulevard, breathtaking hotels, restaurants serving best of French food, chic boutiques highlight the city’s famous style and charm. The marina is one of the best that you will see. Take a stroll by the marina and watch the yachts and sailboats.

Moving around in Cannes, you will find a magnificently modernized city. Luxury dream hotels such as the Miramar and the Martinez add elegance to the landscape. A glimpse of the city’s history can be found in its nineteenth century Villas. You can find anything from medieval castles to Roman villas. Not all villas are open for public but some are available for rent. A stroll within Quartier des Anglais, the oldest residential area in Cannes and little knowledge of history brings into mind pictures from yesteryear. It’s a different world altogether.

One most significant event that stands tall in history of Cannes is the Cannes film festival. Come month of May, the city is overwhelmed by major Hollywood actors and directors as well as a large number of independent film makers. In May 2006, Hollywood Reporter acknowledged that Cannes is the “granddaddy of all film festivals”.

The day goes by basking in the sun and glory of the Riviera. The Night has much more in store for you. If you are of partying type Cannes is the place to be. Wild parties, ones that my mother would not like to see me in. Three days in Cannes, an experience out of this world and an achy hangover. Its time to catch my train and explore the Riviera a little further.