FRENCH RIVIERA

Exceptional quality of life, breath-taking landscapes, the Mediterranean sea, these are only a few of the attributes that come to mind when one thinks of la Cote d’Azur. Where else in the world will you find 300 days of sunshine a year and still being in one-hour drive from challenging skiing.

GENERAL INFORMATION

CLIMATE

2500 to 2800 hours of sunshine per year. Less than 75 days of rain and average of 8 hours of sunshine per day. A few showers in autumn and spring, after which the sky quickly clears up again. The sea breeze tempers the heat of summer. The “velvet nights” of the Côte d’Azur are famous for their ideal temperature. The purity of the air and luminosity have inspired many artists.

LANGUAGE

French is the official language. In all deluxe, four stars hotels, main restaurants and night spots, in most shops, you will find English spoken fluently.

RELIGION

Most religions and faiths are represented on the Riviera. Details of religious services can be obtained from the concierge of your hotel.

CURRENCY

Local currency is EURO (€). Foreign currency and travelers cheques can be exchanged at hotels, banks or licensed money changer. All major international credit cards are accepted by most hotels, restaurants and shops.

SOME STATISTICS

HOTELS

30.000 rooms in listed hotels, of which a large number are deluxe.

CONVENTIONS and INCENTIVE

Convention hall in Monaco, Cannes, Nice, Antibes, Menton, Grasse, Marseille, Toulon. Numerous hotels have meeting facilities

MUSEUMS

45 museums or so, as well as 5 foundations and many art galleries.

CASINOS

12 gambling casinos in the main cities.

SPORTS

All sports available, golf courses, sailing, skiing, tennis, horse riding, gym.

DINING AND DRINKING

The reputation of France for its food and wines in not to be made. On the French Riviera, in addition to classical French cuisine, you will taste some local specialties, such as “soupe au pistou”, “la ratatouille”, “bouillabaisse”, ”petits farcis” etc….. Wine is often not much more expensive than soft drinks.

TIPPING

Most hotels and restaurants add a 15% service charge and any additional tips are optional. Taxi drivers and hairdressers expect 10%.

SHOPPING

Most department stores and deluxe shops will give you the possibility of getting back the TVA (VAT) when you leave the country.