As the world’s biggest brands, biggest stars and power players descend on the French Riviera for Cannes Lions, Page Six asked luxury travel experts where jetliners will check in, dine out and escape the crowds this summer.
Jack Ezon, founder and managing partner of Embark Beyond, a lifestyle partnership specializing in bespoke travel experiences, provided Page Six with travel tips and insights on what to do at festivals, where to go, and this summer and beyond.
Q: What trends are you seeing in general tourism in Cannes and the Côte d’Azur this time of year? Which hotels are fully booked?
A: Our two strongest markets this summer are the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast. Revenues in these regions are up almost 100% compared to 2022. While almost all the jet-setter hotels are fully booked, there are still great pockets in Monte Carlo and Cannes, and untouchable palaces like Byblos in St. Tropez, the Four Seasons Cap Ferrat, and even the Hotel du Cap in Antibes. The key is to pick up last minute cancellations.
Q: What were the hidden gems for travelers after Cannes Lions?
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A: All eyes are on Cannes this year thanks to the announcement of the prestigious Carlton’s incredible reinvention, which literally redefines the city. In recent years, the city has been ignored by jet-setting crowds, opting for nearby Monte Carlo, Antibes and Cap Ferrat. Most of that is due to the lack of a great place to stay.
With a $500 million investment, the great lady of the French Riviera has not only become the most popular hotel in France, but has single-handedly revitalized Cannes as a place to stay on the Riviera. We love combining it with Monte Carlo, the beautiful new Mayborne Riviera, or the hustle and bustle of St. Tropez. For those looking for even more of a combination of detox and retox, a trip to stunning Provence is just a two-hour drive away.
Q: Have you gotten a glimpse of the renovated Carlton? What does it look like? What do you think Cannes Lions attendees will like about the new space?
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A: There are some cathedrals that give you goosebumps just walking through them. Carlton is one of them. Regent has successfully renovated one of the world’s most iconic hotels without losing its soul. I know where I am. Totally classic, it pays homage to the original Art Deco and Belle Époque styles, with a fresh, bright, and sophisticated contemporary interpretation.
The addition of an expansive courtyard and pool provides stunning views for those who cannot afford to face the Croisette. Rooms feature bright white carpets, rich lacquered wood, luxurious amenities and delicious linens. The restaurant is on a new level and the terrace is probably the best breakfast scene on the coast.
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Q: You mentioned Provence as a destination for tourists after Cannes. After this year’s Cannes Film Festival, I saw George Clooney stay at Villa Galici in Aix. Where are people staying and do you see tourism growing in the region?
A: Le Bastide in Gordes and Villa La Coste are new hot spots in Provence, and both offer very different experiences. Located in the ancient hillside village of Gordes, overlooking the Luberon Valley, Le Bastide offers a fresh take on traditional style by the famous Airelles group. Conversely, Villa La Coste is an ultra-modern villa set in a vast vineyard, studded with dramatic modern art.
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Located in nearby Avignon, Crillon Le Brave is set in an ancient commune full of place and history, luxuriously renovated with modern luxury. The chic Fontenille on the outskirts of Aix is perfect for visitors who want to feel like they’re a guest in a friend’s Provence home. Don’t forget Saint-Tropez. For true jet-setters who tend to retreat when things get too quiet, Saint-Tropez is the hottest of the coastal hotspots.
Q: What are your personal favorite hotspots in the area when it comes to hotels and restaurants?
A: I also love the quaint village of Les Baux and the beautiful Ostau de Beaumanières. It’s not the most sophisticated or the newest hotspot, but it’s full of charm and soul.
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Q: Are there any must-dos or must-sees during a typical stay in Cannes or Cote d’Azur?
A: I’m obsessed with the French Riviera in summer, winter, spring, and fall. There’s always something going on. In fact, I love Monte Carlo in the winter. Monte Carlo has just as many wonderful and elegant restaurants and shops as Paris, but (without the crowds) and a much milder climate. Casinos are still one of the most fascinating events you will ever experience.
Art lovers should make a pilgrimage to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, which is filled with art galleries. Take a walk along the Croisette. It’s always a great view. I love nature, so I like to take road trips to the nearby Calanques National Park. It’s truly spectacular. I love going to the beach clubs and nightclubs in Cannes, such as Carlton Beach Club, Plage Keller, and my favorite, Baoli Beach. As dusk approaches, it becomes a great club.
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Although it’s not as glamorous as Cannes or Antibes, I love shopping in Nice’s Old Town. After the beach, stroll through Juan-les-Pins and meet a local family in this adorable village surrounded by the jet-setting meccas of Cannes and Antibes. You can’t leave without taking a boat ride to La Guérite Island for lunch.
Q: Media and advertising executives are concerned about economic instability and the possibility of a recession, but why do you say travel is booming?
A: That’s inexplicable. People continue to spend like it’s burning a hole in their pockets. They are desperately going on expeditions to the Mediterranean Sea this summer or the Caribbean Sea during winter vacation, no matter what the cost. We have been talking about recession for over 2 years and we don’t see it on our reservation. What will the future hold? who knows…. That’s why everyone wants to just live in the moment and worry about finances later. In other words, you can choose to live with your memories and dreams. you only live once!
