BEHIND THE SCENES

Annually in May, one of the most significant film events unfolds - the Cannes Film Festival. This year, Cannes welcomed its 77th edition, unfolding from the 14th to the 25th. Its red carpet perennially draws attention with its exquisite ensembles and the impressive visages of celebrities.

The Cannes Film Festival is not merely internationally acclaimed but also a part of France's cultural patrimony. Its inception dates to 1939, emerging as a counter to the Venice Film Festival, which had become unattainable due to the war. The festival's historical commencement, however, traces to 1946, when, amid the devastation and aftermath of war, the world recommenced its embrace of cultural interchange.

Prestigious festival

Since its inception, the Cannes Film Festival has solidified its place in the global cinema landscape. It serves as a showcase for the world's finest films, a nexus for dialogue among film professionals and the media. Here, masterworks by auteurs such as Federico Fellini, Ingmar Bergman, Alfred Hitchcock, Quentin Tarantino, Steven Spielberg, Francis Ford Coppola, Jean-Luc Godard, and many more have debuted.

Each year, the festival attracts roughly 150,000 attendees. Of these, only 40,000 are official guests—actors, directors, producers, film buyers and sellers, and journalists. The remainder are tourists, lured by the chance to immerse themselves in the aura of celebrity glamour and observe the lifestyle of the elite. Some arrive via superliner cruises, while others travel from across the globe. The radiance of film projectors, the glint of diamonds, and the allure of soirée lights, the prospect of encountering one's idol—all contribute to the substantial influx of visitors during the festival. Consequently, this influx yields a significant economic boon to the local coffers. Reports suggest that in just under two weeks, the festival, or rather Cannes' infrastructure, "generates" 800-900 million euros. On average, each visitor expends approximately €5,500.

For the average tourist, accessing an official screening within the competition program is nearly unattainable—the event caters primarily to film industry professionals. This festival stands alone globally in not offering tickets for sale, and there is no so-called "general" audience present at official film screenings. Nonetheless, it remains possible to glimpse celebrities from a distance and to view films at public screenings on large screens along the central boulevard's beach in the evenings. Gala screenings at the Lumière Brothers Bolshoi Theatre are exclusive to those holding invitation tickets.

With eyes wide shocked

In central Cannes, there is an extensive selection (over 60) of hotels across various tiers. From opulent five-star establishments to more economical, budget-friendly options. In the luxury five-star hotels, renowned for their high service standards and comfort, nightly rates typically commence at 300 euros and can ascend to several thousand euros per room. The four-star category boasts excellent hotels, replete with an array of amenities and services (150-300 euros). Three-star hotels generally provide solid value for money with essential facilities (80-150 euros). Naturally, budget accommodations such as hostels and guest-houses are available for 30-60 euros.

These rates fluctuate based on the season, hotel location, room classification, and services offered. It goes without saying that securing accommodation in Cannes or even in adjacent cities along the Côte d'Azur during the film festival is challenging. Rates can multiply two, three, or even fivefold. For instance, nightly rates for apartments in central Cannes can surge to 4-5 thousand euros. Concurrently, the price for luxury suites can surpass 10 thousand euros. A night in the most modest room of a renowned hotel, which has accommodated stars like Meryl Streep or Michael Douglas, will incur a cost of at least 1-2 thousand euros. Hence, it is prudent to reserve accommodations for the festival period well in advance—at least 5-6 months prior.

Unsurprisingly, the most affordable apartments in Cannes (47 square metres) are priced around 400 thousand euros. And for 2.4 million euros, one can acquire a 4-room residence (131 square metres).

Culinary delights

The surge in prices is apparent not only within the hotel sector but throughout the tourism industry at large. This encompasses travel agencies, beauty parlours, fashion boutiques, souvenir emporiums, supercar hire services, yachts, and haute couture gowns.

A marked escalation in pricing pervades all eateries and cafés in Cannes and its coastal environs. The city's dining establishments proffer fresh seafood specialities and gourmet treats that promise a memorable culinary journey, commencing with the morning hours. From quintessential bistros to prestigious Michelin-starred dining rooms, every epicure will discover delights to their taste.

The expense of dining in Cannes is contingent upon the chosen establishment, its prestige, menu, locale, and the time of year. In opulent Michelin restaurants, the cost for a basic dinner begins at 100 euros per person, exclusive of beverages. These venues offer sophisticated menus and service levels commensurate with their prices. In mid-range restaurants, a meal for one, inclusive of drinks, ranges from 30-70 euros. In casual dining spots like cafés and bistros, one can dine for 15-30 euros. It's worth noting that some restaurants present special fixed-price menus for lunch or dinner, which may be a more economical choice. Prices can also vary with the season and the restaurant's renown.

Among the renowned dishes and desserts to sample in Cannes are Bouillabaisse, a traditional seafood stew brimming with fish and shellfish in a richly seasoned broth. Salade Niçoise—a classic French salad featuring tuna, olives, tomatoes, beans, and boiled eggs. Foie Gras, familiar to many in Baku, is a delicacy of goose or duck liver pâté. Moules—a traditional Belgian dish of mussels, typically accompanied by Chips or a fresh baguette. Ratatouille and Confit de Canard are also sought-after entrées. For desserts, there's Crème Brûlée, Tarte Tatin, Tarte Provençale, and Rouleau de Cannes.

Tours, casinos, parties, and shows

A plethora of entertainment and activities awaits those visiting Cannes. From vibrant nightclubs along the shore to the illustrious casinos and high-end boutiques on the renowned Croisette. The city continually astonishes with its variety, while beach festivities and alfresco fashion displays enhance its allure.

The Cannes region extends a broad spectrum of excursions and tours for those eager to delve into its opulent cultural legacy and scenic beauty. A tour of Cannes (€30-50) encompasses visits to the city's principal landmarks, including the Fortress of Lerins, the Croisette, Forville Market, the film festival's venue, and other historical and cultural points of interest.

Many visitors partake in vineyard tours, savouring various local wines and gaining insights into their production. The cost for such tours spans from €50 to €250, linked to the number of tastings and the tour's duration. Nature park excursions provide a chance to relish the Côte d'Azur's splendour, with trips to the Sierra de la Mer and Leren parks. The starting price for such tours is €50-80 per individual. Cannes also offers boat journeys along the Côte d'Azur or to adjacent isles. The price for these tours ranges from 50-150 euros, dependent on the cruise's length and category.

You don't need to partake in tours or incur expenses to experience Cannes first-hand. Those fond of leisurely strolls can embark on self-guided explorations. For instance, in the heart of the city lies La Croisette, renowned for its opulent hotels, chic boutiques, and inviting cafés. It also houses the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, complete with its complimentary museum—a treasure trove for cinephiles. Adjacent to the Palais des Festivals, you'll find the celebrated Casino Croisette, situated beside the marina.

The Cannes Museum of Art and History (Musée de la Castre), nestled within an ancient fortress, showcases an array of archaeological treasures, artistic masterpieces, and ethnographic displays. The vibrant Marché Forville market invites you to sample an assortment of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and other regional fare, all while basking in the lively ambiance of local commerce.

The Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Espérance, a historic edifice crafted in the Gothic tradition, is adorned with marble sculptures and stained-glass panes. It offers breathtaking vistas of the city from its bell tower. Moreover, the Marseille Tower (Tour du Suquet), a medieval vantage point in the old quarter, provides sweeping panoramas of Cannes and the Côte d'Azur.

Among the most enthralling attractions is undoubtedly the Leren Fortress on the eponymous isle, graced with venerable monasteries and time-honoured ramparts. A brief 15-minute ferry ride is all it takes to reach this historic site.

All roads lead to Cannes

Owing to its strategic position, Cannes is readily accessible from the closest airport in Nice. From Nice-Côte d'Azur air terminal, you can journey to the city via train, bus, or taxi.

Regarding public transportation, the most expedient and economical means to Cannes is likely by train—a ticket costs (as of the first half of 2024) a mere 8.5 euros. Trains depart every 30-40 minutes, with the trip spanning roughly 50 minutes.

Alternatively, you can opt for the express bus No. 210 from Nice to Cannes, which halts in front of Cannes City Hall. The travel duration is 50 minutes, with a fare of €22 for a one-way ticket or €33 for a round trip.

Some voyagers choose to hire a vehicle at the airport and navigate to the city via the A8 motorway. This route is ideal for those who value autonomy and adaptability in their travels.

Taxis and private transfers (starting at €80) offer a seamless and comfortable passage directly to your accommodation in Cannes. This mode is preferable for those seeking to bypass the complexities of public transit. Regardless of the selected method, the commute from Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport to Cannes typically lasts between 30-40 minutes.

Ultimately, a sojourn in Cannes transcends a mere vacation; it's an odyssey that imprints itself upon your soul. A metropolis that melds opulence, culture, and amusement, it pledges to bestow memories that will resonate for an eternity.