Is there a way to truly prepare oneself for Cannes? Well, no. We begin planning 8 months in advance for the event and find that nothing truly wraps until the week-of. Your days are chocked-full of partner meetings, client accompaniment, long dinners in Le Suquet, speed walking (to the next meeting), and pseudo-private events. Time is irrelevant here. Perpetually “on” for someone or some service. This is not a complaint as we are unbelievably fortunate to have the opportunity to participate year after year.
This said Cannes will always be one of the longest weeks of the year. I seem to be an anomaly as most of my peers need not sleep while I require some recharge time. If you are (strange) like me, then I have a few “Best of” tips to help you maintain during the week.
Best Late Night Snack: Kebab Jorainbow Halal
Location: 22 rue Jean Jaures | 43.553532 / 7.020929
Cost:€7
The days are long and the evenings are longer. Do yourself a favor and stop by this place before you head home for the night (or early morning). Jorainbow’s chicken kebab is unreal and a credible way to satiate any late night hunger pangs while also reducing the chance of rosé fogginess come morning.
Tip: Ask for both red and white sauce and don’t skip the frites.
Best View in Cannes: Musée de la Castre
Location: 6 Rue de la Castre, 06400 Cannes | 43.549901 / 7.010408
Cost: Free to walk around and €6 for the museum
If you have been to the Castre then it is likely you visited during an evening event and after sunset. If so, I’d recommend a visit during the day. The Castre is nested above Le Suquet, the most historic area of Cannes. You will find the remains of the medieval castle which was occupied by the monks of Lérins. The museum of Castre overlooks the Croisette, the greater bay, and the Lerins Islands.
Tip: Go around 4 pm and it will just be you and the view.
Best Afternoon or Day Trip: Île Sainte-Marguerite
Location: 43.519925 / 7.048500
Cost: €15 ferry ride
Lookout from a number of points on Le Croisette and you will see Sainte-Marguerite island. If you haven’t explored the island, then I highly recommend an excursion. The swift boat ride only takes around 10 minutes from the pier. This is a perfect escape from the intensity of Cannes. The island is packed full of pine trees and eucalyptus which provide amazing aromatics as soon as you land. There are plenty of activities, including nature paths, beaches, historical sites, museums, and food.
Tip: Find a path and beach. Go the opposite way of the other people. Enjoy.
Best Cup of Coffee: Sapore di Pane in Marché Forville
Location: Rue du 06400, 8 Rue du Marché Forville, 06400 Cannes | 43.552016 / 7.012356
A recent review put it best, “A great welcome. A place exposed to the sun. Good pastries or savory creations at a great price. Excellent hot chocolate or cappuccino”. It is a 15-minute walk from the Carlton Hotel and/or a 7-minute walk from the Palais Des Festivals. It is a franchise, however, the location makes it feel like a true part of Old Cannes.
Tip: Put your phone down and enjoy your coffee.
Au revoir pour le moment.
Sincerely,
PG