Treasures of the French Riviera

Perched on its rocky outcrop, Monaco seems protected against whatever the weather throws at it. Discover the village atmosphere of the principality and its beautiful restored buildings through a maze of dainty narrow streets. The stronghold of the Grimaldi family will seduce you with its gardens, terraces overlooking the sea, Roman-Byzantine cathedral and inescapable princely palace. Every day at noon, you will be able to witness the spectacle of the perfectly orchestrated changing of the guard to the sound of drums.

The chic and fashionable avenues traced around the Monte Carlo casino are bordered by palaces and luxury boutiques where you will have time to stroll. With all the jewelry, clothing, decoration and leather goods stores, the biggest brands have set up shop here. When the shopping is over, it might be time to go have fun at the casino or stroll along the harbor in front of the magnificent yachts.

Of course you can see magnificent, ultra luxurious, ships. But look more closely: there are also lots of yachts. They reflect the sporting spirit that puts Monaco in such a strong position in sailing competitions. The Prince himself is an accomplished sportsman and helps project this active and dynamic image.

Antibes Old Town, between Nice and Cannes, is really the place to stop any time you are down on the Côte d'Azur. Its high point is its busy market. In the morning, you can breathe in all the scents of Provence in the covered market on Cours Masséna. When you have finished strolling through the brightly-coloured streets in the centre and the harbour, what I would do is visit the Picasso museum. In Château Grimaldi, you can see some of the artist's major works which were painted here in 1946.

It goes without saying that this town enjoys a worldwide reputation for its Film Festival. The number of stars who have trodden the red carpet in Cannes! The Croisette passes the legendary Palais and wends its opulent way along the sea line, with its string of luxury boutiques and luxury hotels. This is a delightful stroll – on the one side, the beach; on the other, the majestic façades of the Carlton, the Martinez, the Miramar… And don't forget Forville Market, where I do my daily shopping!

You can't not visit Saint-Tropez! This legendary village that is the haunt both of artists and the jet set still holds a fascination for the rest of the world. It has pulled off the spectacular feat of managing to retain its authentically Provençal character while doffing an aura of international chic, and it is still the height of fashion! As you go from the village to the citadel, not to mention the harbour with its yachts, you will come to appreciate its sophisticated insouciance. Nor should you miss the Musée de l'Annonciade with its paintings by Matisse, Braque, Utrillo…