The French Riviera: beaches, posh lifestyle, and more beaches.

The train ride into Cannes provided some glimpse of the Mediterranean magic, but the mood was quickly diminished after lugging our baggage through the older part of town in search of the car rental. Google maps seems often to only throw more confusion in France, and rush hour added to the stress of finally settling in our Airbnb. But it was worth it. One block from an awesome beach and walking distance to the lively port area, all in a spacious flat housed in a tasteful chateau. Elevated enough to view the sea while we dined and take in the most refreshing breezes even on the hottest days, I immediately senses that four days here was not enough.

With a car we were able to drive and visit such landmarks as Monaco and Monte Carlo. Of course with a car I also got lost and stuck in a monster traffic jam in Nice. So in the end my favorite memories here are enjoying the amazing beaches in Cannes and along the coastline in the less crowded areas (west of Cannes), and experiencing the markets and cafes along the Cannes waterfront. It is absolutely so easy to fall in love with this place and the beach lifestyle. We stayed on the beach till dark our last evening and got in a morning swim just before our departure, where we met a most interesting Brit who now operates a small beach cafe . He sent me a beautiful work of poetry covering his fascinating and inspirational life story. As we pulled out of town I ran out to give him a signed copy of my book. The joy of giving was purely rewarded as he expressed the most genuine joy in receiving my gift.

As always, Zhen captured perfectly our stay in Cannes.