Since the beginning of the floods on Tuesday, more than 2,000 people have been evacuated. On Wednesday evening, it seemed that the worst of the floods had passed. The French meteorological service, Météo France, downgraded the Pyrénées Atlantiques from red alert to orange alert for floods, but water levels in the Hautes Pyrénées remain considerably high.

The pilgrimage site of Lourdes suffered from some of the worst damage of the past week, after having dealt with flooding last Autumn. Speaking to Metro, Mayor of Lourdes Jean-Pierre Artiganave said that “the town was traumatised,” adding that the recent flooding was “more significant than that of last October.”

It is estimated that water had riseen to 5.5 metres in the town, passing the record flood levels of 1937. Lourdes, which attracts six million visitors every year, could face damage costs reaching tens of millions of euros, and many hotels in the area will not be able to reopen for the summer season. The famous grotto, which attracts Catholic pilgrims from all over the world, remains submerged in water.

Météo France has placed the Landes and the Hautes Garonne, as well as 23 departments in the north west, on orange alert for further floods. Minister for the Interior Manuel Valls appealed to people affected to remain vigilant, and promised that exceptional aid would be delivered to damaged areas in the next few days.

Jane O’Faherty

As of Tuesday 18th June, 26 businesses in Nice had been inspected and 43 employees have been vetted so far. Among them, six cases of undeclared workers had been spotted. Last year saw a hard line taken against undeclared workers in Nice, with a total of 7.5 million euros of fines handed out to businesses who used false contracts.

According to Nice Matin, the top three offenders in the PACA region are public works companies, retailers and security agencies. The retail sector saw a multiplication in the number of false part-time contracts in the last year, said a spokesperson from URSSAF.

Under French law, undeclared workers themselves cannot be pursued during an inspection of a business unless they intentionally accept to work without the necessary documentation. This documentation includes a payslip and a declaration made before starting work.

According to URSSAF’s records for 2012, the organisation recovered 1.4 billion euros all over France for business malpractice, up by 15 per cent since 2011. 22 per cent of this sum came from fines issued to companies employing undeclared workers.

Jane O’Faherty

Grasse's economy is based on its ancient cosmetic industry, which includes the production of perfumes, scents and pharmaceuticals.

And while other industries in the region seem to be in decline, the cosmetics industry continues to grow. Over 250 local companies employ more than 10,000 people each year. According to the Chamber of Commerce, in 2012 the industry saw a record profit of nearly 2.6 billion euros, the highest in 12 years.

Another city of the Riviera that has experienced a strong economic growth thanks to the cosmetics industry is Menton. It ranks second for its high economic growth, with a two per cent increase in profits on last year.

Meanwhile, Nice, Antibes and Cannes have been the most affected economically, with a decline in sales from two to 2.5 per cent.

The Construction and Public Works (BTP) industry, the traditional engine of the Riviera's economy, is still at half-mast with a decrease of three per cent of revenue in the first trimester of 2013. For the trade sector, the situation is even worse, as its activity has decreased by five per cent.

Roberta Mantovani

One bus out of two will be working on bus line 25 between Cernuschi and Vauban. All other bus services will operate as normal.

The Parcazur parking sites in Las Planas, Pont Michel, Vauban and Saint Augustin wil be closed to customers from 9am until 12pm, but vehicles that had been parked there will be allowed to exit during this time.

For more information, check with lignesdazur.com.

It is not clear why the strike has been called. 

General Director of Cisco France Robert Vassoyan said that Nice was “a pioneering city” in terms of digital innovation. Sensors will also be placed in recycling bins and will notify waste management services when they are full. They will also inform the fire brigade if they detect that a fire has started. Mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi also welcomed the project. “This experiment, with the implementation of a global control panel, will provide us with decision making tools in real time,” he said.

However, Nice City Councillor Patrick Allemand pointed out that the new initiative means little to residents on Boulevard Victor Hugo. The Socialist councillor said that people there are extremely worried about the underground tramway project, which is supposed to pass underneath the boulevard. “Despite all the sensors, the mayor of Nice remains deaf to the concerns of people in Nice,” he added.

If the test is successful, other streets in Nice will also be equipped with the sensors.

Jane O’Faherty

The beaches were recently closed from 25th May to 8th June due to an unacceptable level of E. Coli bacteria and enterococcus in the water. The pollution was reportedly caused by ongoing work at the treatment plant.

Due to further works, all four beaches will remain closed until further notice.

According to Nice Matin, 80 per cent of the water that comes out of the plant is of "bathing quality". However, the remaining 20 per cent requires treatment before it is safe.

Roberta Mantovani

Having listened to the imaginary testimony, police reportedly began an investigation into the kidnapping and openly called for witnesses to come forward over the weekend. The abduction had police mystified. No one had reported the disappearance of a girl matching the witness’ description.

According to Nice Matin on Monday 17^th, investigators said the man was "credible", and that he appeared genuinely shocked by what he claimed to have seen.

But this was before footage from a CCTV camera positioned close to where the reported incident happened was officially examined. This examination revealed that nothing in the nature of a kidnapping or abduction had occurred.

Police are no doubt now asking why the man came to police with the false story. Investigators are reportedly looking to Marseille for answers, trying to find out if the so called witness is known to police.

"It appears that this boy has a habit of filing complaints for all sorts of reasons," police commander Isabelle Brock told Nice Matin, adding that it was "not the first time he has come to the police."

The falsified testimony threw the entire town of Grasse into turmoil. According to reports, the man could now face a hefty fine and a deferred prison sentence.

Jane O’Faherty

We hear questions such as: Are my assets safe? Am I getting the most from my bank scheme? What should I know about inheritance laws and my second home? Are there changes that I should know about? How can I optimise my situation?

Has the matter become more difficult in today's world?

In European states, of course, certain things which were once considered unethical have come into practice - such as the unexpected access to private customer's assets. Following the economic crisis in Europe, this is now acceptable. Wealthy citizens are on top of the list of those being subjected to more scrutiny. 

What do you mean by 'banking solutions'? 

From the start, it's all about you, the customer. You have the right to perfect service and to be taken seriously. Unfortunately, this is no longer how things work. More and more, we are seeing unhappy customers. So, the most important question should still be: with whom do we entrust our savings? The Black Pearl company aids the easy and rapid opening of bank accounts, on a request to bank managers in your own native language. Efficiency, safety and discretion are ensured.

Can you help with inheritance issues?

Many of our customers have a second home in France. People aren't often aware of what that eventually translates to under inheritance law here. Often when someone dies, heirs can be left with a significant financial burden on top of their grief. 

So what do you suggest to your clients? 

In some cases, the establishment of a French or Monegasque real estate company, or a so-called SCI (Société Civile Immobilière), makes sense. After examining the case, we show the customer all the solutions for optimising the situation and how to implement them accordingly with our French or Monegasque lawyers. 

What do you consider particularly important? 

Our philosophy is long-term planning, not putting out fires on short notice. Clear, understandable and especially modern solutions are needed. As sad as it may sound, these days, assets need protection from all possible angles in order to develop as much as possible. 

74, Bd d'Italie, Monaco

Tel +377 99 99 45 31

Fax +377 99 99 45 00

office@blackpearl-monaco.com

www.blackpearl-monaco.com

Allen will play the clarinet at the Anthéa theatre on 21st July, accompanied by the New Orleans' Jazz Band. 

Other major artists include the famous comedian Gad Elmaleh, who recently confirmed his relationship with Princess Charlotte Casiraghi of Monaco.

The season will feature more than 50 shows, promising to satisfy a variety of audiences. "We want a theatre for all tastes and every age," Benoin said at a press conference on 12th June.

This is the first time the theatre is offering a full programme. From April to July this year the venue hosted a 'mini season' which, according to Benoin, served as a rehearsal for the new building. The spring season was declared a success, with more than 40 shows and over 20,000 spectators.

This season is divided into five sections. The first one is called 'The Inevitable' and will present a musical comedy based on the film Anna, a creation, production and screenplay by Pierre Koralnik. 

The second is 'Privileged' - a mix between music and comedy, featuring Woody Allen and Gad Elmaleh.

The third is named 'All Theatre' and includes classic plays from Romeo and Juliet and The Diary of Anne Frank, to The Little Prince and The Mysteries of Paris.

'All the performing arts' is the fourth section, withn ballet, burlesque cabaret, acrobats, dancing and more.

The last section is simply called 'Opera' and will present different opera plays including The Barber of Seville and Pierrot Lunaire.

Tickets are available from 18th June.

Roberta Mantovani & Ira Soehnge

One of the site’s main features is an interactive map with colour-coded warnings for each regional department. Red indicates a mosquito alert, while orange means that bites have been reported. If a region is marked as yellow, conditions are favourable for mosquito breeding. The map, which is described as a forecast for mosquito activity, is updated daily with the help of 2,000 pharmacies in France and meteorological observations.

The website also focuses on the tiger mosquito, an invasive species that has arrived from South East Asia. First spotted in the south of France in Menton in 2004, the tiger mosquito naturally adapts well to Mediterraneum climates, much to the dismay of Côte d’Azur residents. The insect also has the potential to carry yellow fever and chikungya, and could be set to spread throughout the country if it is not stopped. Viligance-moustiques.com predicts that France could be inundated with the species by 2030.

In 2008, the government released a list of regions “where mosquitos represent a threat to the population.” The Alpes Maritimes was among the top regions likely to be affected by the creatures.

Jane O’Faherty

All three politicians are expected to appeal against the plans. 

Elsa Carpenter

It took the Nice and Côte d'Azur services about a month to remove the dense and thick snow coating the road, which had been closed since March this year. 

Meanwhile, two other roads were reopened on Friday 14th June: the Champs pass, for the RD 78 and Saint Martin d'Entraunes, and the Bonette pass for the RM 2205, both closed during winter.

All major passes of the Nice Côte d'Azur that allow circulation in the Alpes de Haute Provence are now reopened.

Roberta Mantovani

Police have begun an investigation but so far noone has been arrested. It is believed that a scuffle broke out on a beach close to Boulevard du Littoral. The victim was then reportedly followed to rue Bricka, where he was killed. While police are sure that a knife was the murder weapon, they have also found evidence that tear gas and a Taser were also used. Five people, including one girl, are thought to be involved in the attack.

Speaking to Nice Matin, member of the National Assembly for Antibes Jean Leonetti said he deplored the violence of Saturday morning. “I am saddened and angry. Saddened because it is still Juan les Pins that is the theatre of gang clashes,” he said. Police have remained silent on whether this was a premeditated or random attack.

Meanwhile, police were left puzzled after the supposed abduction of a teenage girl in the centre of Grasse on Saturday evening. The girl, who one witness described as aged between 14 and 15, was approached by a masked man driving a white Renault Express. The man tied a cloth around the victim’s mouth and took her to his car, where another man was also waiting. The car then drove in the direction of Nice. However, no one has yet reported the disappearance of a young girl to local police.

Questions remain as to whether the incident was a real abduction or whether it could have been a mock kidnapping, as is custom in certain religions. According to Nice Matin, police have not yet selected a firm line of inquiry. “We would like to know who it affects and if anyone has any other information to bring to this affair,” said the policeman in charge of the investigation.

Jane O’Faherty

STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS (12th June)

The sequel to director JJ Abrams’ 2009 sci-fi hit. We rejoin the crew of the Enterprise, led by the young Captain Kirk (Chris Pine) and Mr Spock (Zachary Quinto), as they chase intergalactic terrorist John Harrison (Benedict Cumberbatch). An absolutely tremendous summer film, bolstered by superb effects, a gripping story and a scene-stealing performance from Cumberbatch. Absolutely everything a summer blockbuster should be, this will delight ‘Trekkies’ and non-fans alike. STAR RATING: *****

ROOM 237 (19th June)

A hit at film festivals around the world, Room 237 explores the impact and legacy of Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror classic The Shining. Examining every inch of the Jack Nicholson-starring chiller, it also looks at the various conspiracy theories and myths surrounding the project. A cinema fans’ dream, the documentary truly puts a microscope on what is a very well-known film, throwing up some interesting and often surprising information, whilst also maintaining the unsettling and cerebral feel of Kubrick. STAR RATING: ****

DARK SKIES (26th June)

A tense horror movie starring Keri Russell (Waitress) and Josh Hamilton (J. Edgar) as a couple who must take matters into their own hands when a supernatural force threatens their home and the safety of their family. Despite an interesting premise early on, events soon melt into lunacy, as Dark skies turns out to be a very drab, uninteresting horror/thriller. Picking different parts of classic alien invasion/haunted house films and then regurgitating them poorly, this is an experience won’t stay in your memory for long. STAR RATING: **

James Luxford

Hotel revenue has accounted for more than half of all turnover, raking in an impressive 222.2 million euros, against 181 million euros in 2011/12. SBM’s recent acquisition of the Méridien Beach Plaza has indeed contributed towards this rise, with an individual turnover of 22.8 million euros.

SBM’s gaming and gambling sector has changed very little during the last fiscal year but has nevertheless reported a slight increase of 3.4 million euros. The industry has remained in line with stable global trends, leading SBM to attribute the minor boost in turnover to a rise in the number of people using automated gaming machines.

One of the principal driving forces behind SBM’s drooping finances in 2011/12 was its ill advised investment in online gambling platform Betclic Everest Group, which was blamed for a serious 50.1 million euro loss. However, SBM managed to slash this cost by 50 per cent in 2012/13, only losing 23.4 million euros.

Operating profits are unfortunately now losses, with items such as voluntary retirement packages setting the company back a staggering 33.4 million euros, which is again a rise on the previous year’s figures but an unavoidable consequence of the group’s falling net profit.

A drop in equity, from 572.4 million euros in 2011/12 to 525.8 million euros in the recent fiscal year, is a recurring factor that has dogged SBM over the last three annual periods.

Since the 2010/11 fiscal year, when SBM announced a shock 17.3 million euro loss, the company has continued to report substantial deficits. This latest financial report has indicated a pattern of decline but has also revealed SBM’s strong assets.

Elsa Carpenter

The club is dedicated to uniting the old and the new, either foreign residents or Monegasque. It attracts a unique and exclusive audience, who take part in every aspect of Monaco's economic, social, cultural and sporting life.

For its anniversary, the group has put together a programme of different and interesting activities that will appeal to CREM's diverse membership.

"We propose activities full of ideas and dynamism," said the director of the club, Marilyne Pierre, at a press conference on Friday 14th June. 

Eager to surprise its privileged members, CREM has designed a collection of brand new events. One of them is 'Who are you', a program that provides an insight into the daily life of certain individuals living in Monaco. 

Another recent addition to the club's packed calendar is the 'Information Meetings for Residents', which will help members get to know the Principality better and facilitate their integration into the community.

From champagne tasting on the beach and cocktail nights with the Friends of the Oceanographic Museum, to a weekend in Milan with an opera evening at La Scala, and a short stay in Strasbourg during Christmas, there's plenty to choose from this year at CREM.

New partnerships have also emerged in recent months, especially with the International University of Monaco (IUM), which will allow Masters students to participate in some events offered by the club for the very first time.

Roberta Mantovani

The event, which took place in the five star Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc, opened with a welcome from Edith Bianchini, President of the DFCG of the Côte d’Azur and Patrick Zucchetta, President of the Financial Management Trophy Jury 2013. This coveted award was the focus of the evening. It recognises dynamic and innovative regional initiatives and their implementation of new concepts and management tools. The trophy rewards relevant management methods and the results that these methods can attain.

In an exclusive interview with The Riviera Times, Edith Bianchini said that every year the trophy was presented to someone who “gives meaning to our actions, and takes the importance of the person at the heart of the company into account.” She added that she chose Patrick Zucchetta to serve as Jury President because of the success of his digital camera company, Dorémi.

Bianchini said that the three nominees for the trophy were chosen for their “close engagement with business leaders” as well as working through delicate situations that allow them to move towards growth. “Navigating these situations requires know-how and exceptional skills with respect to change management.”

Asked about what has changed in France since the arrival of the economic crisis, Bianchini claimed government actions were reducing confidence in future projects.

“Businesses need fiscal stability, but for a number of years successive governments change and then undo changes to financial law, which leads to no confidence in the future, and slows down investments and jobs,” she said. “These measures aim to reduce debt, but they have the opposite effect,” she added.

The prize was bestowed upon Alain Issautier, Administrative and Financial Director of MANE, a company that specialises in flavours for food products and perfumes. Issautier was given the award for his strategies for increasing production and investing in new technologies and international development. His use of information systems and reporting tools in business were also recognised.

The event also hosted a panel of various experts from all across the country. Economist Philippe Dessertine and sociologist Jean Viard came to give their thoughts on the international economy and coping with the crisis. They were joined by Patrick Zuchetta and Georges Dao, President of BA06 Accompagnement, which supports economic development in the Alpes Maritimes with funding for start up businesses.

The first DFCG trophy was awarded in 2011, just as the economic crisis raised its head. Three years on, Edith Bianchini remains positive and adamant that financial directors can make a difference.

“For our businesses, the solution of innovation and exporting these innovations allows us to find sustainable growth,” she said. “More than ever, the role of the financial director is to find the necessary funds to allow businesses to innovate and finance the production cycle of this innovation.”

Jane O’Faherty

The organisation added that they struggled to receive donations during the month of May due to less business days. At the same time, the need for blood donations is rising. Demands for blood have risen by 26 per cent since 2011. “In the PACA region, we had 600 donations a day when we needed 800 to be self-sufficient.” To be able to respond to regional demands, the organisation needed to get blood donations from Alsace and Bretagne, which both have surplus reserves.

Speaking to Nice Matin, the EFS Communications Officer Stéphanie Desmaison said they are actively searching for donations among urban dwellers, who donate blood the least. “In towns, there are fixed collection sites open every day, but 80 per cent of people do not know that these measures are permanent,” she said.

To donate blood, a person must be in good health, be aged between 18 and 70 and be available for an hour. However, anyone who spent more than 12 months in Britain between 1980 to 1996 will not be accepted as a donor due to theoretical risks of spreading mad cow disease. People who have had piercings or tattoos in the last four months, people who have been fasting and pregnant women should not give blood. A medical examination will take place to ensure the safety of both the patient and donor.

Every year, one million people are cured of their illnesses thanks to blood donations, 200,000 of whom are in the Provence Côte d'Azur area. However, only four per cent of French people give blood. Blood reserves are also perishable, as red blood cells die after 42 days, while blood platelets expire after just five days. Nice became a ‘Partner Commune of Blood Donation’ last March.

There will be a donation clinic open in Centre Commercial TNL in Nice on Friday until 5pm.

Jane O’Faherty

"This is very kind and generous,” Sutherland told the audience. “I can now look forward to the next 60 years of my career!"

Crossing Lines is an action crime series involving the International Criminal Court and is set in different locations throughout the world, including Paris and Marseille. It was an ideal series to open the Monte Carlo Television Festival – one that focuses on diversity and co-operation across borders.

“This is the perfect place to have the film premier,” said William Fichter (Prison Break, Black Hawk Down), who plays the lead of Carl Hickman in the series. “This is where everyone from all over the world comes together, the epitome of glamour and globalisation.”

The French Riviera and Monaco remain unexplored territories for Crossing Lines producers, but that could be set to change, thanks to the TV festival. “We were talking to the prince actually last night about filming in Monaco in the future, so yes it just might happen!” revealed Donald Sutherland to The Riviera Times.

The TV festival also hosted the prestigious 40th anniversary party of the long running American daytime soap The Young and the Restless – a French favourite. Of course, the characters sound very different in France, thanks to that frustrating need here to dub everything in French. So what do the actors and actresses think of their alternative tongue?

“I actually met mine,” revealed Afro-American actress Tonya Less Williams, “and I found at that she is white!”

“I think mine has a much sexier voice in French,” said Melody Scott, also known as the long-suffering Nikki Newman.

All the visiting stars were in luck this year … apart from a heavy storm (with hailstones!) just minutes before they took to the red carpet on opening night, the weather was fantastic throughout the festival. It helped boost the whole Monaco experience for the actors, who were indeed in awe of the Principality.

“How beautiful to look out your window of the Hôtel de Paris each morning and say ‘wow’. It couldn’t be more charming,” said Eric Braedon, also known as Victor in The Young and the Restless.

“What’s with all the cars?” added fellow cast member Joshua Morrow (Nicolas Newman). “I mean they’re not just expensive cars, they are sexy cars!”

“It’s my first time in Monaco and it is perfect for the anniversary [of The Young and the Restless],” said Williams. “The Monte Carlo Television Festival is not an industry market, like so many others, it’s a celebration of television in an international environment. It’s very special.”

Also taking part in the festival this year was the cast of Revolution, an American post-apocalyptic science fiction television drama series, which has just been signed for a second series by NBC. On hand to promote the series was Billy Burke (Twilight series) Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad, Once Upon a Time), David Lyons (ER) and Tracy Spiridakos.

With a strong presence of US series, it was no wonder that American-produced television took out most of the top prizes. Best Drama TV Series was won by The Mentalist and Best International Comedy TV Series went to Modern Family; Tina Fey from 30 Rock was crowned Outstanding Actress, while Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston took home the Outstanding Actor prize. The series was also awarded Best International Drama TV Series. Outstanding Actor went to Ty Burrell from Modern Family. 

Wins for the UK included Fresh Meat for Best European Comedy TV Series and Best TV News Item went to Sky News for their Marikana Mine Massacre report.

The full list of winners are:

TV MOVIES

Best Television Film -Aglaja, M-RTL ZRT, Hungary

Outstanding Director -Krisztina Deák, Aglaja, M-RTL ZRT, Hungary

Outstanding Actor- Arsher Ali, Complicit, Many Rivers Films, UK

Outstanding Actress- Eszter Ónodi, Aglaja M-RTL ZRT, Hungary

MINISERIES

Best Miniseries - Letter To Eva, TVE, Spain

Outstanding Actress - Julieta Cardinali, Letter to Eva, TVE, Spain

Outstanding Actor - Ivan Trojan, Burning Bush, HBO Europe S.R.O., Czech Republic

NEWS

Best News Documentary - On The Spot – Warriors MTVA, Hungary

Best Society Documentary - Chronicle Of A Forgotten Death, Point Prod, Switzerland

Best TV News Item - Marikana Mine Massacre, Sky News, UK

Best 24-Hour News Programme - RT Meteorite, RT TV Channel, Russia

COMEDY SERIES

Best International Comedy TV Series- Modern Family, 20th Century Fox International Television Distribution, U.S.

Best European Comedy TV Series- Fresh Meat, All3Media International, UK

Outstanding Actress - Tina Fey, 30 Rock, NBCUniversal Television Distribution, U.S.

Outstanding Actor - Ty Burrell, Modern Family, 20th Century Fox International Television Distribution, U.S.

DRAMA SERIES

Best International Drama TV Series - Breaking Bad, Sony Pictures Television, U.S.

Best European Drama TV Series - Borgen IIIDanish Broadcasting Corporation, Denmark

Outstanding Actress - Sofie Gråbøl, The Killing III, Danish Broadcasting Corporation, Denmark

Outstanding Actor - Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad, Sony Pictures Television, U.S.

INTERNATIONAL TV AUDIENCE AWARDS

Best Drama TV Series - The Mentalist, Warner Bros. Television, U.S.

Best Comedy TV Series - The Big Bang Theory, Chuck Lorre Productions/Warner Bros. Television, U.S.

Best Telenovels – Soap Operas

The Bold And The Beautiful - Bell-Philipp Television Productions, U.S.

SPECIAL PRIZES

THE SPECIAL PRIZE OF PRINCE RAINIER III

On The Trails Of The Glaciers: Mission To Caucasus, SD Cinematografica, Italy

AMADE PRIZE

Lord’s Children, Chasseur d’Etoiles, France

THE INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE RED CROSS PRIZE

Lord’s Children, Chasseur d’Etoiles, France

SIGNIS PRIZE

The Jewish Cardinal, Scarlett Production, France

THE MONACO RED CROSS PRIZE

AglajaM-RTL ZRT, Hungary

URTI PRIZE

Grand Prix for Author’s Documentaries

The Forgotten, Carles CaparrosTVE, Spain

Cassandra Tanti

More than 225 officers will be deployed during the day and a maximum of 37 patrolling the city at night. According to the Municipal Police, the new measures will be in place “until the end of September at the earliest”, and that the regime would operate every day from 10.30am until 3.30am.

The strengthened police units include two vehicle patrols along the Promenade during the day and three at night, and one patrol in the pedestrian zone. There will also be an Urban Supervision Centre with 10 agents, which will be open 24 hours a day. The Municipal Police also announced the “reinforcement of a dissuasive presence in the principal tourist areas”, including Place Masséna, Cours Saleya and Vieux-Nice.

The opening hours of police stations will also be extended during the summer months. Cours Saleya Police Station will be open from 6am to 3am, while the station on Rue Gabriel Fauré will close at 8pm each evening. The station in Libération will remain open all day and all night.

Estrosi also announced a ban on the consumption of alcohol in public places from 8pm until 5am, stricter controls regarding the disembarkation of ferries in the port, and a push to have police in closer contact with residents, businesspeople and tourists.

Meanwhile, the mayor used the opportunity to welcome the new Director of the Municipal Police in Nice, describing Christophe Darmon as “the most suited person to direct this organisation.”

Around four million tourists visit Nice every year, many of whom come during the warm summer months. The city was also voted the second favourite French destination on TripAdvisor earlier this year, behind Paris.

Jane O’Faherty

Two cameras will be installed on the road covering a section of 1.5 kilometres. They will calculate the average speed of a vehicle as it travels along the section and if the average speed is higher than 70 kilometres per hour, the driver will be indicted for speeding.

Five more long-range camera systems are reportedly going to be installed in the Alpes Maritimes by 2014. The local prefecture has not released an official statement on the subject as yet but initial media reports suggest that the cameras will be fitted in "high risk" areas where accidents and fatalies are a frequent concern.

The Eze - Monaco road was chosen after the death of 24 people on this single patch of road last year alone.

The long range speed radars are able to detect a vehicle's actual speed at each camera location, as well as calculating the average between the two points.

Studies in the United Kingdom have revealed that the device is more effective than fixed digital speed cameras as it makes drivers slow down over a longer period of time. Internationally, it has achieved a 50 per cent reduction in the number of fatal and serious crashes. 

Roberta Mantovani

Current subscribers are also welcome to enter the competition!

Competition closes on 31st July. Good luck!

From 17th until 20th June, the south pavement and road will be subject to repairs, from the exit ramp of the airport to Ferber. This includes the road that leads to Avenue du Docteur-Emile-Roux. Work will also take place from 9am to 6am, but traffic will not be diverted as one lane will remain open to drivers. Like the first phase, normal traffic will resume each morning.

The third phase, from 19th until 28th June, will see works on the south pavement and road during the day, between 9am and 4pm. Public works, notably rainwater networks that are in a state of disrepair, will be mended during this time. The number of traffic lanes will be reduced, but the statement has given little other detail at this time.

The works will cost 670,000 euros before tax, and further roadworks will take place from October 2013.

Jane O’Faherty

Antibes is just one of the towns on the Côte d’Azur that has been selected for the director’s latest cinematic venture, featuring The King’s Speech star Colin Firth and American actress Emma Stone. He will be filming some scenes at Villa Eilenroc between 17th and 31st July.

The Oscar winner’s agent had previously contacted Antibes Councillor for Tourism Audouin Rambard about the possibility of performing during the Jazz at Juan festival. Only one date in July suited both parties, but a free concert to mark the closing of the festival had already been scheduled for 21st July. According to Nice Matin, Rambard said that it would have been “impossible to postpone it.”

“With a heavy heart, we had to tell him no!” she explained.

Allen’s agent then turned to Anthéa Theatre’s artistic advisor Daniel Benoin. “He let me know that Woody was ready to give a concert in Anthéa on 21st July at 7pm,” Benoin said, speaking to Nice Matin. “We could welcome him, and we will do that in partnership with Jazz at Juan,” he added.

Woody Allen and the New Orleans Jazz Band have performed together for more than 35 years. Allen, who is a jazz clarinetist, often plays in small venues in Manhattan, and regularly gives concerts in the Carlyle Hotel in New York on Monday evenings.

Tickets for the concert are from 30 to 45 euros, but priority will be given to those who are members of the Anthéa Theatre, before 14th July.

This year, the Anthéa Theatre has an artistic budget of 2.5 million euros and will host French actors Jean Louis Trintignant and Cécile de France, as well as comedian Gad Elmaleh.

Jane O’Faherty

Roberto Bonati, an Italian entrepreneur, and Maxime Rinaldi, a French investor, together proposed the plans, which will see the creation of a huge fashion hub that will cover over 21,000 square metres and house approximately 150 top of the range stores.

Currently referred to as the 'Pôle Touristique de la Mode', this complex hopes to become the ultimate shopping haven on the Côte d'Azur, pulling in an international client base, and in particular, the growing number of Asian tourists in the region.

"The influx of Asian tourists doubles every year," says Bonati. "The Chinese don't go to the beach so they need a touristic alternative!" 

The project hopes to establish Le Muy a touristic attraction in the PACA region, offering visitors a different option to hot days on the beach. It also promises to create an estimated 1,000 jobs in the area.

Roberta Mantovani

The fire took hold on 11^th June in a 1,000 square metre electrical store, incinerating everything from music systems to household appliances. The alarm was reportedly raised at around 8.50pm on Tuesday, a mere half an hour after the last employee closed up shop on the Chemin de Combes.

A team of 30 firefighters and 13 vehicles were at the scene but their attempts to save the store were futile. Instead, they were forced to change tack and try to prevent the fire from spreading to other properties nearby.

According to Nice Matin, no one was injured in the flames but the extensive damage means that more than 20 employees will be temporarily laid off.

Owner of the Ubaldi chain Walter Ubaldi has reportedly visited the store since the incident and told Nice Matin, "Everything has gone up in flames. I will have to put my 22 employees on temporary unemployment during the repair time. It’s a tough blow."

The Ubaldi chain store announced the provisional closure of the Antibes store on its website but reiterated that its outlets in Nice and Mandelieu would be open.

Jane O’Faherty

In an effort to get more younger people into jobs, the government late last year launched the Emplois d'avenir initiative, which made 26.7 million euros available to the public sector to employ people under the age of 26. It subsidises 35 per cent of gross salary thereby reducing labour costs.

Now, the initiative has been extended to the private sector.

Prefect of the Alpes Maritimes, Christophe Mirmand, made the announcement on Monday 10th June during the Cinq jours pour l’Emploi. 

"I want to remind the representatives of the business world that the provision of Emplois d'avenir has been softened and it is now addressed to the private companies too," Mirmand said. 

"It's going to ramp up," he added, saying that the inclusion of the private sector will help the fight against unemployment.

The new measure will be effective from this week. It is hoped that it will help create 1,107 jobs by the end of the year and help boost the private sector.

Interested businesses should contact their Chamber of Commerce.

Roberta Mantovani

Mediapart journalists Karl Laske and Marine Turchi write that Riviera Invest “also made massive cash withdrawals of 13.5 million euros, and numerous transfers to Morocco, the United States and... France.” The investigators claimed that the amounts were “sufficiently significant” to inquire how the funds were being used, according to Le Monde.

The scandal turned political last night when the lawyer for victims of the fraud, José Luis Escobar, stated that there was evidence that the embezzled money went to France where it was used by a member of Roch Tabarot’s family. This family member, according to Escobar, is involved in politics. The comment, published in Le Monde, means that both Michèle Tabarot and her brother, Cannes City Councillor Philippe Tabarot, could be implicated. Philippe Tabarot plans to run for the mayor of Cannes in the 2014 elections.

Michèle Taboret, who is a member of the National Assembly of France and also General Secretary of the UMP, spoke out against the revelation on radio station RMC on Tuesday morning, saying she was furious that her family were the "object of a fallacious smear campaign”, which she described as “unworthy and delirious”.

Jane O’Faherty

The two parks officially joined on 6^th June in a ceremony that was well represented by both sides of the Franco Italian border. Mercantour President Fernand Blanchi and Director Alain Brandeis met with Parco Naturale delle Alpi Marittime President Gianluca Barale and Director Patrizzia Rossi for the special event in Tende.

Despite the union of the two areas, both will also continue to exist separately. By bringing together the natural sites, it is hoped that they can work together and alongside each other in a number of common projects.

"Thanks to our new structure, we are now able to put forward and promote our candidature for becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site," said Florent Favier, a representative for the Mercantour. 

When the two parks applied to become a protected UNESCO site in April it was the first time two countries had ever registered together. Achieving this feat has been credited to the support given by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and the Monegasque government, who have been involved in the project since 2008.

The two areas make up a wild and beautiful corner of Europe, with diverse landscapes and over 8,000 different species. Covering an incredible 2,425 square kilometres, one unique attribute of the region is its many rock carvings and paintings in the Vallée des Merveilles, which date back to the Bronze Age.

Roberta Mantovani

“Bruno and Pascal are in danger following a decision that threatens the entire pilot profession,” claims the union. “They must be freed immediately!”

The presiding judge of the case has reportedly ordered that all four men remain in custody for a preliminary period of one year. The latest reports from the Dominican Republic suggest that even if the pilots are released, they will be forced to remain in the country while the trial continues.

Elsa Carpenter

Around 1,200 police and customs officers were mobilised, under an initiative by the Alpes Maritimes authorities. The Franco-Italian operation targeted drug and goods trafficking, as well as illegal immigration.

It was carried out simultaneously on roads, highways, train stations, ports and airports in the four departments of PACA, and included the use of four helicopters.

Christophe Mirmand, head of the police department of the Alps Maritimes, said it was important to work together with the Italian authorities to make this an effective sweep.

"It is the first time an operation like this has been carried out," Mirmand said to Nice Matin. "Our desire is to improve the coordination of customs and police, in the air, water and on land." 

A total of 128 suspects have been arrested. The police reported 15 cases of drug trafficking and 57 others offences. They also noted four customs and 538 road traffic offences.

The new Mobile Criminal Investigation Laboratory has been credited for the speedy operation. The facility, dubbed "Air Force One" by police, is equipped with all the necessary technology to speed up the analysis of samples such as drugs and false documents. Hundreds of passports and IDs were examined by experts.

Due to its great success, police plan to repeat the operation in the future.

Roberta Mantovani

In a press release on Thursday evening, the Communist Nice Councillor Emmanuelle Gaziello said the assault was “a tragic and revolting drama.” “Faced with the underlying fascist hatred and violence of this attack, there can be no complacency,” she said. “These acts must be combatted with determination and all small extreme right groups must be dissolved.”

In a later post on her Facebook page, Gaziello called on “all democrats” to attend public meetings on the issue on Friday 7th June. Gaziello said the meetings would “show our support for Clément’s family, but also our refusal of neo-fascist hatred in our country.” The assembly in Nice will take place in Place Garibaldi, while there will be another assembly in Cannes infront of the town hall. Both will take place at 6.30pm.

Tensions between the right and left have scarcely been more high in France, especially since the outbreak of violence at protests against the introduction of gay marriage. However, politicians from all sides of the spectrum have condemned the attack. Front National Councillor Bruno Gollnisch stated on his website that his party “always condemned violence” and understood the pain of Mérin’s family and loved ones, and the anger of his friends. Interior Minister Manuel Valls reaffirmed on Thursday his determination to eradicate violence “which has the mark of the extreme-right, and puts our republican pact in grave danger.”

Jane O'Faherty

It's no easy task to attain the prized status as applicant beaches must satisfy a range of gruelling environmental, water quality, waste disposal and educational criteria, and are then judged by an international team of experts. Even at beaches that already have a Blue Flag, regular tests are carried out in order to ensure a sustained level of quality.

You can find the locations of the qualifying beaches below but good luck trying to decide which to visit first!

Var: Saint Cyr Sur Mer, Six Fours Les Plages, Saint Mandrier Sur Mer, Toulon, Le Pradet, La Londe Les Maures, Le Lavandou, Rayol Canadel Sur Mer, La Croix Valmer, Sainte Maxime

Alpes Maritimes: Cannes, Vallauris, Antibes, Villeneuve Loubet, Nice, Cap d’Ail

Liguria: Bordighera, Sanremo, San Lorenzo Al Mare, Loano, Finale Ligure, Varigotti, Noli, Bergeggi, Savona, Celle Ligure, Varazze, Sant Ambrogio, San Giacomo, Chiavari, Lavagna, Moneglia, La Spezia 

Elsa Carpenter

There are some big names in the industry, with hugely popular American and UK series up for nomination. "For a few years now, we've seen the quality of nominations rising, especially in the Mini Series and TV series categories," says Laurent Puons, General Director of the festival. "One reason is because 10 years ago, there were movie actors on the one hand and TV actors on the other. Today, film stars will also feature in TV series, and vice versa," adds Puons.

Donald Sutherland is a perfect example. The Canadian actor's career spans nearly 50 years and includes notable roles in movies such as JFK, Pride & Prejudice, The Pillars of the Earth and The Hunger Games. He's also starred in numerous television series, most recently as Tripp Darling in Dirty, Sexy, Money and now in the new TV crime drama Crossing Lines.

During this year's Television Festival, the 77-year-old actor will receive the first ever Crystal Nymph award, to be presented by honorary president of the festival, Prince Albert II. "We won't necessarily award a Crystal Nymph every year," says Puons, "only if there is someone who has had a huge career in the TV industry or if there is a series that has really stood out for years and marked a whole generation."

In the Mini Series category this year, standout nominations include the United Kingdom's Broadchurch and Dancing on the Edge. Not surprisingly, the United States has a strong presence in the Comedy TV Series category, with 30 Rock and Modern Family competing for top spot.

But the UK's Fresh Meat and Red Dwarf X will be putting up a good fight, as will Lowdown, an Australian series about an entertainment reporter and his photographer mate, risking life, limb and karmic payback to expose the private peccadilloes of celebrities, in the hope of selling more newspapers.

In the Drama TV Series, the UK's Downton Abbey and Doctor Who will go up against Breaking Bad, Capadocia and Homeland from the US, as well as other popular international nominees. It's an interesting line-up for the best documentary, with entrants from Germany, Canada, China, South Korea, Sweden and Switzerland, together with France's In Bed with the Arab Spring and the UK's Exposure: The other Side of Jimmy Saville.

Hitting the red carpet this year is a plethora of A-list stars, including Giancarlo Esposito, formerly Gustavo ‘Gus’ Fring from Breaking Bad, the Evil Queen's magic mirror in Once Upon a Time, and Major of the Monroe Militia in the new series Revolution. Also on the guest list is David Giuntoli, lead in the American Grimm series, Katie Jacobs from Dr House, Sarah Paulson from American Horror Story, Donald Sutherland, currently appearing in Crossing Lines, and Robin Tunney from The Mentalist.

"We're expecting 300 journalists and 30 television stations at this year's festival," reveals Puons, "which is proof of the quality of the festival." He adds, "We also promote Monaco at the same time."

The Monte Carlo Television Festival will also host the 40-year celebration of one of television's longest running drama series - The Young and The Restless. There's great news for fans, with an autograph signing session on Tuesday 11th June between 6pm and 7pm at the Verrière, Grimaldi Forum. The Young and the Restless is the only daytime drama to receive 119 Daytime Emmy Awards, and has received a total of 412 nominations. A spectacular gala party will be held in the Principality - but this one is invite only.

As usual, screenings and events are reserved for the press and a select lucky few, but there's plenty of celebrity spotting to be had at the Grimaldi Forum and throughout the Principality! Opening the festival on 7th June will be the world premier of Crossing Lines, a new US series which follows a special unit set up by the International Criminal Court to investigate crimes that cross European borders and hunt down offenders to bring them to justice.

Cassandra Tanti

Gérard Depardieu was in the French Riviera to promote the first ever Russian Film Festival, to be held from 14th to 17th June in Nice. The festival will celebrate 400 years of the Romanov Dynasty and will be headed by a French and Russian judging panel.

It was a smart move by organisers to have the award-winning actor participate in the festival; his presence at Villa Massena attracted the attention of plenty of press, both local and national.

By Depardieu’s side sat a very welcoming UMP Mayor Christian Estrosi, who was also keen to have his photograph taken alongside a fellow anti-Hollande public figure. The 64-year-old actor told press that he had a special relationship with Nice, for it is here that he first saw the ocean. He also highlighted the ties between the capital of the Côte and his new home country. "Nice for me is the most Russian city in France," said the actor.

Estrosi agreed, pointing to the Cathedral of Saint Nicolas in Nice as an example - the largest Russian Orthodox building outside Russia's borders. Gérard Depardieu was then presented with the Medal of Honour of Nice.

Responding to journalist’s disappointment at rarely seeing the controversial actor in France anymore, Depardieu said: "For 15 years now I have lived less than five months in France (and I pay my taxes but that is not the point). I have always been a traveller and citizen of the world, just as my father taught me." He added, "I'm not running from the IRS, if I had I would have fled long ago."

Gérard Depardieu was granted Russian citizenship in January by President Vladimir Putin after a dispute with Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, who described the actor as "pathetic" for deciding to leave France over taxes.

Cassandra Tanti

The unique thing about this year's festival is that, unlike previous years, the majority of the plays are based on French classics. "This year it is re-centred on France," said Françoise Gamerdinger, head of the Department of Cultural Affairs of the Principality, in a press conference on 6th June.

Among some of the plays are Inventaires, with Judith Malgre, Le Roisemeurt, with famous actor Michel Bouquet, and Cher Trésor, with Gérard Jugnot, known for his directing career in the film Les Choristes (2004).

The press conference was attended by Delphine Depardieu, niece of controversial actor Gérard Depardieu, as well Paul Belmondo, who star together in Plus Vraie que Nature, scheduled for 19th December at the Princesse Grace Theatre.

This year's festival promise plenty for theatre lovers offering comedy, classics, drama and tragedy.

Tickets will be on sale from September and will cost between 20 and 30 euros. 

Roberta Mantovani

The governing body voted earlier this year that teams in League 1 and 2 must have their clubs based in France by June 2014, or be relegated to the third tier of French football. The move could mean AS Monaco would lose out on benefits from the Principality’s tax system, which allow players to avoid income tax on their salaries. Regardless, the team’s recruitment of top international players continues, with the signing Joao Mouthinho, James Rodriguez and Radamel Falcao.

AS Monaco’s purchasing power has been buoyed by Monaco’s tax haven status and Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev, who owns 66 per cent of the club. Former Monaco striker Sonny Anderson told BBC Sport that the current tax arrangements worked in the club’s favour in the past. “Let’s not pretend it doesn’t matter. The money and the lifestyle play a big part in attracting players,” he said.

The extension of a 75 per cent surtax on salaries greater than one million euros has also increased tension between Monaco and French football organisations. It is estimated that it will cost clubs over one hundred million euros each season. Many French clubs feel this gives Monaco an unfair advantage.

In May, Rybolovlev spoke out against the LFP’s proposed measures. “The club has contributed many players to the French national team and proudly represented French football in European competitions,” he said. “Therefore it does not understand the lack of recognition of this contribution from the French football authorities.”

A ruling is expected on 20th June.

Jane O'Faherty

It follows a recent move by a group of chefs, led by Alain Ducasse, to introduce a new "quality restaurant" labelling scheme throughout France, helping consumers to identify which restaurants prepare their own food. 

Elsa Carpenter

Higher wages here have encouraged international companies to choose cheaper alternatives in other EU countries such as Ireland, Poland and Belgium. The French government intends to compete by reducing these costs and introducing tax credits for investors.

10,540 jobs were created in France last year, a drop of 20 per cent compared to 2011. While the United States established 138 new FDI projects here in 2012, investment from Germany, the UK and other EU countries has slowed. However, the news is not all bad for the French economy. The country is now the second most popular destination for US investment since 2012, overtaking Germany.

According to the author of the survey, Marc Lhermitte, France had other strengths in terms of investment. “It has reserves of creativity and entrepreneurship that are no less important than in other European countries,” he said to Metro News. “The problem is the conditions of carrying out the projects.”

Lhermitte added that an upturn in France was “quite possible” and that Germany was in the same situation in 2002 and went on to quadruple its investment projects.

Jane O'Faherty

The operation took place in major cities in France, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lille, and Nice. The suspects are accused of a variety of crimes including burglary, credit card fraud, pickpocketing, shoplifting, counterfeiting, and acts of violence.

According to Nice Matin, among the 14 suspects arrested in Nice is the presumed head of the gang, a 38-year-old identified only as "Arthur". Police say the suspects, who are mainly of Georgian and Armenian origin, are believed to be part of a "very structured" group related to the ex-Soviet Union. 

Interior Minister Manuel Valls described the operation as a success, and used the opportunity to encourage the police force to relentlessly pursue the fight against criminal networks from Eastern Europe. 

Roberta Mantovani

iPhone users can download an app called The Jellyfish Report which identifies where the jellyfish are congregating in the south of France and how many there are.

https://itunes.apple.com/fr/app/jellyfish-report/id496869819?mt=8

Elsa Carpenter

Speaking to Metro News, weather forecaster Gérald Plonka confirmed that better weather was to come “in the middle of next week at least.” The specialist did acknowledge that there would still be storms and showers, but that they would be nothing compared to the downpours of the last few days.

According to Météo France, rainfall in the east of Provence and the Côte d’Azur was two to four times higher than the normal level in France. While the Mediterranean coast experienced some sunshine in the month of May, hopes were dashed by bouts of heavy rain and thunder. Snow is still being cleared from roads near Haute Tinée, just 100 kilometres from the city of Nice.

Meanwhile, Plonka anticipated that the sea would take longer to warm up, with temperatures expected to remain at 17 degrees for the next few weeks.

Jane O’Faherty

Ndikumana, who works as a private security guard in a small town in the Midlands, UK, had bought 3,500 euros worth of cocaine in Sao Paulo, then took a plane that stopped in Madrid en route to Nice. 

"I know that it is dangerous, but I had no choice. I have financial problems," claimed the smuggler, according to a Nice Matin report.

Ndikumana spent 48 hours at the Saint Roch hospital in Nice, as medical experts extracted the 100 capsules from his stomach.

He was later sentenced to three years in prison and a 44,000 euro fine, in accordance with the demands of local customs.

In December last year, police arrested another drug courier at Nice airport, this time carrying 1.3 kilograms of cocaine inside his body - a particularly dangerous amount, say the authorities. 

Roberta Mantovani

The chancellor said that the council made its decision after examining “the chaotic life and work of this extraordinary artist, recognised in his own country and around the world as a tremendous singer and great poet.” However, it did not give details of the controversy that surrounded the nomination.

Bob Dylan is widely regarded as the voice of 1960s counterculture, and spoke out openly against the Vietnam war, where France was once a colonial power. The satirical newspaper Le Canard reported that the musician’s nomination was initially rejected because of his protests against the war and presumed drug use.

The Legion of Honour is the top award of the ‘Chevalier’ order. Dylan was presented with the lower rank of the award in 1990, and was given the highest civilian honour in the United States in May 2012. Other cultural figures to receive the award include Paul McCartney and J.K. Rowling.

Jane O’Faherty

Two final two islands, Ilot Saint Ferréol and Ilot de la Tradelière, are today uninhabited but are a favourite with divers and swimmers alike and make for idyllic havens for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of life on the mainland, even if only for a day!

Elsa Carpenter

The presumed head of the clan, a 47-year-old Bosnian man named Goran Hamidovic, was arrested on Monday, together with his wife, two daughters, a family member and another person. They were found in two hotels near Cannes in the neighbourhoods of Cannet and Vallauris.

The suspects are accused of exploiting around a dozen youths aged up to 17 years of age, who police say were instructed to steal expensive cars and clothing and hand them over to Hamidovic.

The teenagers were bought from their families in Bosnia-Herzegovina, some of them as young as eight years old, the police said to Le Figaro.

It is estimated that every teen had brought to the clan at least 15,000 euros worth of goods a month. Among the belongings seized by police was a Porsche 997 Turbo Tiptronic, worth 176,000 euros.

Police are still investigating if there is a link between this case and the 'Hamidovic' clan sentenced in May 2013 in Paris.

Roberta Mantovani

MUCEM is the first example of a State museum in France located outside of Paris, with 65 per cent of the cost being paid for by the French government. While the museum was first suggested more than a decade ago, construction work only began in 2009.

Speaking to AFP, President of MUCEM Bruno Suzzarello described the project as “the first museum in the world dedicated to civilizations of the Mediterranean.”

Suzarello said he envisaged the museum as “a place for debate, comparing ideas, with a rich cultural programme,” and added that it would be “a great cultural project” but also a place for locals themselves.

In an interview with La Provence, the president said the museum’s European dimension was something that Marseille could be proud of.

The museum will be free to the public when it officially opens on Friday 7th June.

Jane O’Faherty

Mayor of Cap d’Ail Xavier Beck proudly cut the ribbon at the launch of the prestigious neighbourhood on 31st May and smiled as he said, “Our little town has never seen so many members of the political elite!”

Bordering the Principality of Monaco and France, the opening of the Saint Antoine quartier was also attended by Mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi, President of the General Council for the Alpes Maritimes Eric Ciotti, Prefect for the Alpes Maritimes Christophe Mirmaud, and Minister of State in Monaco Michel Roger. 

The entirely new neighbourhood has been designed to meet the needs of modern living through its innovative fusion of suburbia and shopping outlets, as well as office spaces and sports facilities.

The architect in charge of the project, Alain Derbesse, called Saint Antoine “a combination of technical know how and aesthetic awareness.”

One main focus of the project was to open up the traffic networks to the Fontvieille and Marquet districts, which have, until now, only be accessible from Monaco. Thanks to the construction of an underground tunnel, it will now be far easier to reach the coastline communities. 

The building of four separate apartment blocks has allowed the border town of Cap d’Ail to sufficiently meet social housing regulations in addition to creating over 50 private apartments. A school has also been built in the international complex, which Prefect for the Alps Maritimes has called, “An important symbol of the vitality of Franco-Monegasque cooperation.”

Elsa Carpenter

 The mountainside areas of La Malle and Caussols have been subject to a legal wolf cull since mid April but this has now been extended as part of the recent decision. In addition, the communes of Duranus, Lantosque and Luceram are now also covered by the legislation.

The news has come on the back of a recent admission from the Chamber of Agriculture who called the original 2008 to 2012 plan to create an environment of “cohabitation” between wolves and the agricultural community a “failure”.

According to the Chamber of Agriculture, a total of 5,848 farm animals were killed by wolves in France last year and in 2011, the Alpes Maritimes was one of the worst hit regions with 300 sheep and goats being lost to the wild living predators.

Farmers are becoming evermore frustrated with the attacks and the end of May saw around 40 livestock breeders protesting outside a research centre belonging to the Chamber of Agriculture, near the city of Nice. According to Nice Matin, farmers are reporting up to three attacks a day.

Despite this, the wolf has become a veritable tourist attraction in its own right, with a park dedicated to the species in the Mercantour National Park. The wolf population returned naturally to the Alps in the 1990s and, while there are no concrete statistics regarding the number of wolves living freely in the wild, it is believed there could be as many as 200 in the Côte d’Azur alone.

Jane O’Faherty

Estrosi also claimed that “the scandalous attitude of the Right to Housing Association is hindering the work of the law enforcement authorities.”

On 30th May, around 30 people of Roma origin, including a number of children, were removed from a squat on Rue Beaumont in the Barla République neighbourhood in Nice. The squat had been a source of concern for several weeks following an accident involving the explosion of a makeshift stove, which injured two people living in the derelict building. 

While social care workers assisted some of the people living in the now empty squat to find new accommodation, others were left out in the cold and were forced to look elsewhere for somewhere to live. 

On 1st June, the Right to Housing Association, association Droit au logement 06, reportedly took over a building further north in the city, near the Lingostière shopping centre and helped an estimated 50 members of the Romany gypsy community to move in. 

The mayor of Nice has since condemned the act, saying, “For several months now, I have been trying hard to break up and remove the Roma camps that have created many problems in our city… It is unacceptable that these elected representatives and associations, who pretend to be protecting human dignity, are working against the law enforcement authorities and are blindsiding the rules of our republic by encouraging illegal immigrants and Romany gypsies to trespass.”

It is unclear whether or not the move is illegal, as at this moment in time, no legal action has been taken against the community. 

Estrosi has, however, made his own personal feelings well known, saying, “Gypsies, squatters and illegal immigrants are not welcome in the territory of Nice.”

It seems the government versus gypsy saga is far from finished. 

Elsa Carpenter 

The Japanese section is classically decorated with warm neutral hues, bamboo dividers and bold red and black tones. A Japanese Zen summer garden is a tease of what could be on this cold spring evening.

As you walk through Japan and enter Thailand, the room is open and inviting with its plush elongated chesterfields lining the walls, subtle oriental touches, and soft lime and red hues.

I normally run a mile from any restaurant that has pictures on its menu, but Maya Bay has taken the concept to a whole other level. The meals are presented in a recipe book format, with page after glossy page of perfectly photographed dishes, helping customers understand the foreign menu.

I recommend starting with a mixture of steamed Dim Sum (Les Vapeurs), which were perhaps better than anything I have ever tasted in Melbourne's famed China Town. Lovers of fried Asian starters will not be disappointed, and the prawn and fresh pineapple salad was simply delightful with its bursts of coriander and lemongrass. Even the potentially bland rice paper roll was full of flavour, and each entrée was accompanied by a different speciality dipping sauce.

For mains, there is a nice selection of curries and pad thais, as well as specialities like steamed fillet of turbot with fresh herbs, lobster, crispy duck and melt in your mouth 'tiger' steak on a bed of spinach and served with slightly sweet soy sauce. The pad thai with lobster is simply delicious and very well priced at 19 euros.

If you can fit in dessert, there are 15 to choose from including the Maya Sphere - a chocolate sphere that disappears with the addition of a spicy hot chocolate sauce to reveal red fruit compote at its core with raspberry sorbet. Just be sure not to fill up on the giant ball of candyfloss that is placed on the table beforehand.

Perfect service, scrumptious wine and a complimentary digestive shot on ice top off a special evening and one that should be on everyone's agenda during their time in the Principality.

Cassandra Tanti

But these figures are not equally distributed across Europe. France has been labelled as the continent's most prominent user of cannabis with almost 1.2 million citizens smoking the drug at least 10 times a month. Besides the high number of regular users, a fifth of French people claim to have taken cannabis at least once in their lifetime.

What's more, hard drugs such as cocaine are on the rise in France. "In other countries, levels of cocaine use remained relatively low and stable, even though France and Poland reported increases in 2010," said the OFDT. While 'coke' use is declining in countries such as Spain and the UK, the substance is now the second most popular drug in France after cannabis.

The report comes as police in the Paris region are clamping down on the drugs trade, an operation which has led to the arrest of over 10,000 people in the first third of 2013. Police claim to have seized over a tonne of cannabis, 50kg of cocaine and 11kg of heroin, as well as 3.6 million euros in cash since January.

Meanwhile, alcohol and nicotine consumption towers over illegal drug use in France. The OFDT counted 13.4 million daily smokers between the ages of 11 and 75 in 2010 - a figure that has remained stable since 2000 despite the ban on smoking in public places and price inflation.

Worryingly, the practice is also gaining popularity among people. A massive 63 per cent of 16-year-olds had tried a cigarette in 2011, against 60 per cent in 2007. 22 per cent of these teenagers smoke on a daily basis, up from 17 per cent in 2007.

And despite the fact that daily alcohol consumption has become less practiced in France, "new extreme drinking behaviours have developed (five to six glasses on one occasion)," according the the OFDT, "particularly among young people."

'Binge drinking' in France may not have yet reached UK levels, but it appears that the once wide gap is rapidly shrinking.

Isabelle Younane

On site during the evacuation, Mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi has long campaigned for the eviction. He made his sentiments known once again yesterday when he tweeted, “Rue Beaumont squat: our mobilisation paid off. Evacuation underway.”

While certain families with children benefitted from the help of social care workers, many others did not. Humanitarian associations in the area have become heavily involved in the rue Beaumont case, urging authorities to find a new home for the squatters over the months. Unfortunately, solutions were not found for everyone involved.

The squat has been the focus of tensions in the Barla République neighbourhood for some time now. An accident in early April worsened the situation when a makeshift stove exploded causing two injuries. One man’s face was burned and a young woman was hurt after she jumped from a first floor room in panic. All other squatters were evacuated by emergency services on the day, but later returned to the premises.

Nancy Jane Carragher

But the Alpes Maritimes eclipsed the national rate with an unemployment rise of  two per cent. A total of 61,056 jobseekers now make up the coastal department, up from 59,867 just one month earlier. This places the department at the forefront of the crisis in PACA, where unemployment climbed 1.6 per cent in the same time bracket.

As expected in the A.M., the older generation has been hit hardest by the crisis with an extortionate 20.1 per cent of over 50s out of work.

But as President François Hollande pointed out in his address at the Institut d'Etudes Politiques in Paris this week, the youth are the government's main concern. Unemployment among under 25s in the Alpes Maritimes has soared by 3 per cent within a month. Young women have emerged as most affected, with a 3.8 per cent rise.

Meanwhile, the president continues to insist that the worst is behind us. "I reestablish here before you, by taking risks, but also by adhering to my responsibilities, that the curve of unemployment can be reversed by the end of the year," he said during his 16th May address to the nation.

But the Alpes Maritimes' 12 per cent rise in unemployment in just 12 months does little to raise hopes. On the contrary, the OECD has predicted that employment levels will sink deeper in 2014 and render 11.1 per cent of France's population jobless.

Isabelle Younane

Nice based production company SKE DAT DE DAT is reportedly in charge of the search and has asked Caucasian men and women between the ages of 25 and 80 to apply for the numerous extra roles. 

Due to the period era nature of the as yet unnamed film, there are some strict rules regarding the appearance of applicants and long hair is out for both men and women. Apparently, the preferred cut for female extras is a bob or shoulder length style that isn’t dyed or highlighted.

For men, moustaches and beards are welcome but, with the fashions of the time in mind, sideburns must be shaved for the role.

Dreadlocks and visible tattoos are also prohibited as the production team is reportedly looking for an au naturel cast.   

So if you think you’re up to the task, which does promise some sort of pay packet, all you need to do is take a recent photo along with you to the casting sessions! Alternatively, send an email to castingwasp@gmail.com for more information. Good luck!

In other cinema news, the city of Nice has launched two dedicated film websites, one in English and one in French, that have been designed to assist possible investors in the Côte d’Azur’s emerging film scene.

The PACA recently announced a public drive to promote the region as the French capital of cinema through a variety of different projects and initiatives, which have also paid homage to the Riviera’s illustrious film heritage. Think the Lumière brothers and Grace Kelly!

In 2012, nearly 200 production companies used Nice as the backdrop for their films and that figure is set to rise in the next few years as a number of high profile movies, including Woody Allen’s period flick, head down to the Riviera too.

Visit the newly inaugurated online platforms, available at filminginnice.fr (English) and tourner-a-nice.fr (French).

Elsa Carpenter

The spot taken by the chain was once home to the famous ‘Mississippi’ nightclub, which was closed following a fire in 2007. The space was also used by Italian restaurant ‘Befed’ but has been unused for two years following the company’s bankruptcy.

The Hard Rock Café chain, founded in London in 1971, boasts one of the largest collections of rock and roll memorabilia in the world. With autographed guitars, outfits from world tours and rare photographs from the rock and roll world mounted on its walls, the restaurant hails American culture as it serves classic meals from the States.

The Hard Rock Café has already begun recruiting, it's looking to fill three positions initially in Nice - operations manager, sales manager and sous chef. It is expected to recruit more general staff before its October opening in the coming months.

Nancy Jane Carragher

On the bright side, the closure means that extra tracks are on the horizon. "These interruptions are part of the extensive work undertaken by Réseau Ferré de France for the construction of an additional lane on each of these axes," said Brigitte Crapon, head of the line, to La Provence.

The additions will hopefully ease traffic and minimise overcrowding in time for peak season on the Riviera.

Meanwhile, the train line between Grasse and Cannes should reopen on 6th July according to the SNCF, who have publicly assured that they are "making every effort to get things back to normal in time for the beginning of summer."

The line was closed on 8th March because of a landslide at the mouth of the Ranguin tunnel. While the line was initially due to be reopened by the middle of June, new landslides have since occurred due to turbulent weather conditions.

For more information and updated timetables, visit the SNCF website.

A product which has been dangling from the fingertips of many European citizens for 400 years cannot be suddenly swiped from the market, as the OFT points out. For the experts, the e-cigarette is that crucial halfway point between cigarettes and nicotine patches - a 'stage 2' that has never found so much success.

Six per cent of French people admit to having tried an e-cigarette, according to OFT, and one per cent - or 500,000 people - claim to use the technology on a regular basis.

The product functions by simulating a real cigarette. It has a glowing light at the end and added flavouring to provide a less dangerous alternative to the real thing. By using 'e-liquids' composed of propylene glycol or glycerol, the electronic cigarettes do not release toxic carbon monoxide, solid particles or carcinogens. In short, they satisfy a nicotine craving without clogging up the lungs.

However, the longterm effects are hazy. "We do not know enough about these products," admitted the OFT, before describing the e-cigarette as "a product which presents infinitely less dangers than the cigarette, but the dangers are not totally absent." They recommend independent scientific studies on the longterm effects of e-liquids to paint a broader picture of the risks.

The OFT has recommended that the e-cigarettes conform to other tobacco standards to ensure their quality, while discouraging their usage by under 18s and their sale in unlicenced shops and supermarkets - just like normal cigarettes.

Meanwhile, 31st May marks World No Tobacco Day, a global initiative to encourage a 24-hour period of abstinence from all forms of tobacco consumption.

Isabelle Younane

Monaco’s summer spending spree widened yet further with the new addition of Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho. The 35-year-old former Chelsea player will come to AS Monaco as part of a free transfer for one year, with the possibility of an extension.

“I’m very happy to join AS Monaco FC and take part in a new adventure,” said Monaco’s newest recruit, “it’s a fresh challenge to take on.”

The flight of Falcao…

Following a routine medical on Tuesday, the 27-year-old Colombian striker is thought to have gone over his contract with the help of his agent Jorge Mendes. He has since returned to Atlético Madrid, for one last game in the Spanish league against Zaragoza.

The football superstar could join forces with the Monegasque side for a massive deal of 60 million euros, smashing the French league record, making Falcao the most expensive player in League one, and reaching 4th position of most expensive transfers ever made (behind Ronaldo, Zidane and Kaka).

Speculation has suggested that the initial 60 million euros could be reduced to 45 million euros due to a liberty clause in the contract. This condition allows Falcao to negate his contract in the event of an offer from Real Madrid.

But with 10 million a year, Falcao will still be earning a substantial amount playing for the Red and Whites.

Where’s the money coming from?

Relegated from the first division just two years ago, AS Monaco has been fighting their way back ever since. Returned to League one following a successful 2012-13 season, the club is benefitting this Mercato season from a financial injection on the part of Russian owner Dmitry Rybolovlev.

As one of the richest men in the world, the Russian oligarch was ranked by Forbes 119th position in this year’s list of billionaires. He is estimated to be worth over seven billion euros.

The team just invested 70 million euros in a double transfer deal with FC Porto that brought James Rodriguez and Joao Moutinho to the Monegasque side. While French teams look on with worry, it remains to be seen whether the money will be enough to buy back the team's success.

Nancy Jane Carragher

This is a significant rise from their November prediction of 10.9 per cent, suggesting the Hollande Government has been overly optimistic in its promise of a brighter future.

"I reestablish here before you, by taking risks, but also by adhering to my responsibilities, that the curve of unemployment can be reversed by the end of the year," said François Hollande during his 16th May address to the nation, adding, "the battle will only be won in the long term if growth returns."

But with an uninterrupted surge in unemployment for 23 straight months, France has yet to see a light at the end of the tunnel. The nation counted 3.2 million jobseekers in March, leading to a "stagnant" economy, according to the OECD.

"The risks of deterioration compared to the predictions are significant, above all if the structural reforms are poorly explained or partially implemented, and insufficient to restore confidence," said the organisation.

The OECD seems to back the European Commission by encouraging France to accelerate reforms "by encouraging salary modification and by implementing a lower minumum wage for young adults."

French citizens have a monthly minimum wage of 1,430 euros - among the most generous in Europe. Pensions are high and the retirement age of 62 is significantly lower than that in neighbouring Germany, where it stands at 67.

Pressure from Europe

As the Eurozone's second largest economy, France may have to face up to its international responsibilities and moderate its employment policy.

"It would be especially advisable to further improve tax structure by lowering social security tax, eliminating tax havens and ineffective tax and raising property tax, inheritance tax and environmental tax," said the OECD in their report, a notion that echoes pressures from the European Commission.

José Manuel Barroso, the Commission's president, says social catastrophe will ensue if France does not implement major structural changes. “The social emergency in many parts of Europe and the increasing level of inequalities in some regions add to the pressing need for reforms,” he said, according to a report by The Telegraph. "The fact that more than 120 million people are now at risk of poverty or social exclusion in Europe is a real worry. We need to reform, and reform now. The cost of inaction will be very high.”

On Wednesday, the commission urged all 27 EU countries to take a series of measures such as budget cuts and economic reforms. They gave France and six other nations extra time to carry out the changes.

But President Hollande has used this as an opportunity to defy his widespread nickname of "Mr. Weak."

“The European Commission cannot dictate to us what we have to do," said the President in a public statement. "It can simply say that France must balance its public accounts. As far as structural reforms are concerned, especially pension reforms, it is up to us, and us alone, to say which is the best path to attain this objective.”

But, the commission is well within its rights to legally enforce its demands upon Eurozone members, unless the June summit reveals a majority vote against the move.

Nevertheless, it has not been the first time that France has steered away from EU regulation. The nation has frequently broken the EU rule that budget deficits should not surpass 3 per cent of GDP. Many economists believe that this has paved the way for France's present debt crisis.

Targeting youth unemployment

As an alternative, Hollande has chosen to hone in on youth unemployment, which counts 700,000 victims in France and six million in Europe. The Republic has joined forces with Germany to develop a new scheme.

The first brick was laid on Tuesday 28th May when German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schäuble met with his French counterpart Pierre Moscovici in the Institut d'Etudes Politiques in Paris to discuss a series of measures called Europe: Next Steps.

Moscovici admitted that Europe does need "structural reforms" and despite Hollande's more recent outburst, added "We are not afraid of structural reforms in France."

The meeting kicked off with a keynote speech from President Hollande who deplored the plight of the young amidst widespread unemployment. According to The Guardian, he called them "the post-crisis generation" who will "forever after be holding today's governments responsible for their misfortune."

The 'New Deal' will be tackling three key areas and will be brought before European leaders in the next EU summit in late June. Firstly, EU leaders must invest six billion euros in the fight against youth unemployment as soon as possible. Hollande added that "Those areas with 25 per cent youth unemployment or higher should get 'accelerated spending'."

Next, European leaders must create a 'Youth Guarantee' for students who leave school without a job. They should secure either a job, additional training, an internship or an apprenticeship after four months of graduating.

"But do we have the ability to implement this objective?" said Hollande, voicing the question on everyone's lips. "Well, we have no choice, we have to do it now."

Thirdly, Hollande outlined a future Erasmus scheme by which university students can study abroad. "All young people, regardless of their educational background, would be able to go and continue learning new skills in another European country," explained the President, saying that companies in crisis-struck countries should benefit from extra funding from the European Investment Bank.

"Can we be responsible for depriving today's young generation of this kind of hope?" said Hollande - a question which will be answered in late June.

Isabelle Younane


 

Despite Frigide Barjot's usually fierce anti gay marriage campaigns, she reportedly said, “I wish the two grooms all the best… I wish them happiness and faithfulness.”

Our region will be celebrating its first spate of same sex unions in just over a week’s time. On 7th June, the first gay marriage in the Var is due to take place and the Côte d’Azur is just a day behind with a lesbian couple marrying in Beausoleil on 8th June.

A representative from the Nice based branch of LGBT, which supports the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, told Nice Matin, "I know lots of people who have already prepared all of their marriage papers but they are waiting... for the media attention to pass... in order to guarantee intimacy at the ceremony."

Among the many young couples waiting to marry, there are also some older love stories. According to Nice Martin, Jean Santangelo and Georges Chabrière will marry almost to the day of their 41st anniversary as a couple. Niçois born Jean told the newspaper, "We never thought we'd see the day!"

However, not all is rosy in the south of France, where all parliament members, except Valbonne’s Socialist senator Marc Daunis, voted against the controversial bill. There are mounting fears that the mayors may simply refuse to comply with the law, instead siding with the numerous high profile protests that have rocked France in the last few weeks.

Elsa Carpenter

Last June, the pair were sentenced to a year in prison with six months suspended for organising a giant party in the Var that swept out of control. They were also fined 20,000 euros for damages, awarded to the owners of the ransacked house. 

The villa, located in a residential area of Issambres, accommodated more than 1,000 young people, invited by Allan and Alexandre via Facebook. The party quickly grew out of control and the Dutch owners were left with broken windows, submerged furniture in the pool and torn pipes. The damage bill came to 80,000 euros. 

Local residents alerted police to the unauthorised party but authorities were completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of people, managing only to stop the gathering at 2am.

Both defendants admitted that American teenage movie Project X was the inspiration for their event. The film tells the story of three high school students who hope to become popular by throwing a giant party - which spirals out of control. 

While students in the movie suffered only a bad hangover, a string of copycat crimes have led to serious damage to unoccupied homes. In Houston, one Project X-inspired rave turned deadly when several guests started firing guns, killing one young man.

Meanwhile, Johnny, the 41-year-old man who rented the villa to the two defendants, had his sentence reduced by the court of appeal to a fine of just 2,000 euros.

Nancy Jane Carragher

But the newly released autopsy results say otherwise. The prosecution of Nice has confirmed that 96-year-old Charlotte Pociolli was stabbed several times in the heart with a diving knife - a revelation that took forensic pathologists 10 hours to uncover because of the victim's mutilated remains.

While Cédric claimed to have "tasted" his grandmother's liver, the prosecution said that this organ was found intact. Autopsy results have reportedly revealed the act of cannibalism to have been unlikely.

Despite his confession, the 39-year-old may never face trial. Psychological experts have already speculated that Cédric suffers from extreme mental illness and may not have been responsible for his actions. A more thorough medical examination will take place in the coming days.

Cédric is suspected of murdering his grandmother on the night of 22nd May, before dismembering her body and storing her remains in the fridge and in a makeshift grave in the back garden. The suspect readily professed cannibalism when police arrived at the family home in Saint Pierre de Féric, Nice.

Isabelle Younane

Running from 27th May to 1st June, this tournament is considered to be the Olympic games of small states. “It’s basically the same, but smaller and more relaxed,” said Roby Reiland, event coordinator, to France 3 Côte d’Azur.

European countries with populations under a million are eligible for the competition. Iceland, Luxembourg, Andorra, Cyprus, Lichtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino and Montenegro have all been participating since 1985.

There are 11 disciplines in total: basketball, volleyball, beach volleyball, table tennis, swimming, judo, rifle shooting, athletics, gymnastics, tennis and cycling.

With just eight medals between the nine countries in the history of the Olympics, these games allow smaller countries to award their best athletes for their efforts, on a scale proportionate to their population size.

With a 3.1 million euro budget, the GSSEs are not as flash as the actual Olympics, which racked up a bill of 11 million euros last summer in London. However, for some athletes, it’s still important.

Table tennis player from Luxembourg, Traian Ciociu, said, “For me, it is almost more important to perform at the GSSE’s than the world championships. At the worlds, we aim for qualifications. Here, we gain victories.”

With 857 athletes registered for this year’s edition and 750 medals to be distributed, Monegasque athletes could be returning home next week with some new merits to their names.

And as the GSSE's motto goes: "Just because we’re small, doesn’t mean that we can’t do as the big countries do"

Nancy Jane Carragher

The Mediterranean city hosts the 'Under the sunshine of Italian food' event to introduce quality Italian produce to the Riviera, showing off the traditional wares and rarest specialties of a country so long associated with great cuisine. 

From sweet and salty jams to artisan pasta, not forgetting delicatessen meat and a selection of regional wines, the pride and joy of Italian cuisine will be on the Quai des Etats Unis for a four-day food extravaganza.

Some lesser known regions will also be exhibiting in the hopes of attracting French Riviera visitors to their hometowns.

Open 10am to 8pm. Further info. at: www.italieatable.fr

To see photos of last year's event, visit our picture gallery!

The 27-year-old Colombian striker scored 32 goals in 36 game appearances this season alone, and has long been linked to a move away from Atlético Madrid. Though Man U. and Chelsea have reportedly both been vying for his attention, it appears that Monaco has jumped to the head of the queue, with the impressive wallet of Russian millionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev as its main recommendation.

The contract

The club is hoping to snap up the Colombian star with the grand total of 60 million euros – a deal that would make Falcao the most expensive player in the history of the French league. Under the five year contract, Falcao would also benefit from 10 million euros per year.

However, one clause on the agreement also allows him to terminate his contract with Monaco should Real Madrid offer him a place on their side.

Monaco’s Mercato so far

While the transfer window - the ‘Mercato’ - doesn’t officially open until 9th June, Monaco is already stampeding ahead with several deals under negotiation and some top players secured already. Just a few days ago it nabbed Portuguese Moutinho and Colombian Rodriguez, two top-rated players for Portuguese giants FC Porto, for a total of 70 million euros.

Another new addition could come in the form Victor Valdés, current FC Barcelone goalie. He too will be undergoing a medical this week at AS Monaco headquarters.

The master plan…

While sporting director Vadim Vasilyev said that the team was not undergoing a ‘revolution’, assistant coach Jean Petit reportedly told Spanish news station Radio RCN on Friday, “Signing Falcao is a big coup in sporting and media levels for French football.”

Petit also confirmed Falcao’s potential transfer to the club. “Yes, we are expecting Falcao and four or five other players of his quality”, the one time star player said. “We have spoken and we continue to speak with Falcao and his representatives, negotiations are ongoing. We hope to seal a deal as soon as possible.”

“Monaco needs a player like Falcao because he can help us a lot,” Petit added, “because he can attract other top players, and that’s the best way of confirming our project is big and interesting… our intention is to create a team capable of playing well which fans can enjoy watching.”

Nancy Jane Carragher

“To find a spring this wet we have to go back to 2008,” said Jobard. “But in 2008 temperatures weren’t so low."

Temperatures in Paris plummeted to an eye-watering 3.7 degrees celsius on Friday 24th May - the lowest for this time of year since 1887. The weekend's cold snap was no anomaly, with the national average standing at five degrees lower than the springtime norm.

What's more, French Riviera's suffering tourism industry  will need more than an umbrella to protect itself from rainfall. Private beaches along the Côte have postponed their opening dates, while harvesters of regional produce are struggling to meet consumer demands. Specifically, farmers of courgettes, potatoes and asparagus have expressed concern over the risks of waterborne diseases.

And although spring does not officially end until the beginning of June, it has already been classified by Météo France as the coldest in 26 years. Even if the various spells of rain predicted for this weekend magically subside, no amount of last-ditch sunshine can save it now.

Isabelle Younane

The Mediterranean city hosts the 'Under the sunshine of Italian food' event to introduce quality Italian produce to the Riviera, showing off the traditional wares and rarest specialties of a country so long associated with great cuisine.

From sweet and salty jams to artisan pasta, not forgetting delicatessen meat and a selection of regional wines, the pride and joy of Italian cuisine will be on the Quai des Etats Unis for a four-day food extravaganza. Some lesser known regions will also be exhibiting in the hopes of attracting French Riviera visitors to their hometowns.

To see what can be expected at this year's edition, check out The Riviera Times photos from 2012: http://www.rivieratimes.com/index.php/picture-galleries.html

Open 10am to 8pm.

Further info. at: www.italieatable.fr

"We are going to have a discussion with the States, the central banks and the consumer associations to determine which option will emerge as the object of a bill," announced the European commissioner for economic and monetary affairs, Oli Rehn.

The Finnish politician says four options are up for discussion: maintaining the status quo, reducing the cost of minting small coins, entire elimination or slowly phasing out the centimes by ending production.

However, the commission is prepared for mixed reactions. "People say they are attached to these coppers and fear a risk of inflation if they disappear, but at the same time, they don't use them," they said in a statement.

The price of minting one or two centime pieces in France is reportedly between three and five cents - a hefty price to pay for a coin that is often found neglected in pockets, under furniture and even on public streets.

But without petty change, retailers could round prices up - a phenomenon that occurred in numerous sectors after the introduction of the euro in 2002.

"If we don't have one and two euro cents, all 99 cent payments will have to be marked up," said Maxime Chipoy, the project manager of the bank sector at consumer association UFC-Que Choisir, to RMC radio. "This could potentially lead to inflation as all prices will be rounded up to the nearest point."

"Today, the cost of these coins is covered by the European Central Bank," added Chipoy. "And if you remove these pieces, we think that the money saved will not be back in consumer's pocket. It will cost him and he will not see the benefits."

Chipoy has been backed by Serge Maître, the president of the French Association of Bank Users, who also spoke to RMC. "Consumers are going to round up their prices to five cents higher so they can give change. This will deal a heavy blow to consumers and their wallets."

For General Director Christophe Beaux of Monnaie de Paris, the governmental organisation in charge of issuing coins, the EU has got its priorities wrong. "Real savings could be made by transforming the five-euro note into coins," said Beaux to RMC. "The coins last forever, whereas the a five-euro bill is replaced every six months, costing the taxpayer each time. We would make an economy of 10 billion euros."

The 17 member states of the EU have produced a total of 45.8 billion one and two cent coins since January 2002, equating to 137 centimes per inhabitant. Finland and the Netherlands have already scaled back the number of coppers in circulation.

Isabelle Younane

Seven windows were broken on the train but none of the 15 passengers were injured. They had no choice but to complete their journey through the tunnel on foot.

The train was destined for Cannes from Ventimiglia when the incident unravelled, just before 7am on Sunday 26th May. It echoes a similar attack in March, when stones were hurled at a train in the Gard, disrupting its journey between Nîmes and Vergèze.

Originally from Vence and Villeneuve Loubet, the culprits of Sunday's attack were tried immediately in Grasse. They explained at the bar that they had intended to stop the train so it could take them home.

They have both been jailed for a year and four months and have apologised to the SNCF, the driver and the passengers.

Isabelle Younane

The GIR is responsible for clamping down on organised crime and corruption in Corsica. It encompasses both members of the police force and the gendarmerie. Neither the adjacent PAF border police nor the Search and Intervention Brigade (BRI) were touched by the explosion.

Interior Minister Manuel Valls has made a public statement denouncing the attack "with great severity" and promising, "the GIR will be relocated, with their computer archives protected in a remote location."

The Socialist minister claimed the attack took place because "the effectiveness of investigative services clearly disturbs the vested interests," adding, "all means necessary will be deployed to thwart them." Investigators have reportedly not ruled out the possibility that the attack was related to an ongoing criminal inquiry that was being led by the GIR.

Speaking on France Inter earlier this month, Valls sparked political tension by renewing his view that "violence is culturally ingrained in Corsica." The Socialist made the same statement after the April assassination of the president of the Corsican Natural Park (PNRC), Jean-Luc Chiappani.  

According to an OpinionWay survey carried out for Nice Matin and Paroles de Corse, 53 per cent of French people do not agree with Valls' summation of the Corsica problem. Socialist voters were more sympathetic, with 58 per cent agreeing that violence is an inevitable aspect of Corsican life, limiting the government's power to effect change.

An inquiry has been opened by the anti-terrorism prosector of Paris and will be conducted by the regional directorate of the judicial police force.

Isabelle Younane

The champion may be German, but he has spent his life in Monaco. "This is my home, I've grown up here all my life and it's really special. The whole weekend went perfectly. I had a terrible start and I was close with Sebastian and Lewis but after that I controlled the pace. The car was really good, the tyres held on OK and that was really the key, so a massive thanks to the team. I'm ecstatic."

His victory was felt in the stands, with roars of excitement bellowing from the crowd like a Mexican wave each time Rosberg completed a lap. With the sun beating down on the prestigious track and inviting blue sea, spirits could not be higher.

His success comes 30 years after his father's victory in the 1982 Formula One World Championship. Keijo Erik Rosberg, known as 'Keke', watched from the stands on Sunday 28th May as his son maintained an unwavering lead.

But it hasn't been all smooth-sailing for the Mercedes driver. "We've had such a difficult time the last couple races and dropping back so much. That was a little bit in the back of my mind but it was OK. I hope this is going to last. Today, the team gave me a great car. It's really fantastic to see how much they have been able to improve in a short space of time. This track suited us anyway."

Rosberg now holds sixth position in the championship after beating British driver Lewis Hamilton, who is believed to be the fastest driver in Formula 1. He also defeated Australian Mark Webber who came in third (last year's winner), and Sebastian Vettel who took second place. Both sponsored by Red Bull, the runners-up were gallant in their defeat.

"Congratulations to Nico, it's a special place to win," said Webber after the race. "It was a seamless weekend. For us we knew it was a bit against us but we got a good start. It was sod's law that it was a short first corner. After that it was about saving the tyres. It was completely predictable. It was nice to get past Lewis and we will take that position. It was difficult at the restart but in general it was just driving around and saving the tyres."

"Overall I'm happy and pleased with the result," agreed Vettel. "We know it's difficult to overtake here. Congratulations to Nico, he had the pace and the tyres. We had a fantastic start but there was no room to overtake and I had to lift. I was surprised by the slow pace of the opening laps. You expect two silver arrows in front of you and we had two buses in front going for a slow cruise. They had a strategy but we did well to get past Lewis. I think we can be happy with the result. It was a good job by the team."

Fernando Alonso had a difficult race after starting sixth and ending seventh, while Kimi Raikkonen finished with a single point after his 10th place. Nevertheless, the Finnish driver still holds second place in the championship.

Ambulence on the track

But this was nothing compared to the struggles of Brazilian driver Massa, who slammed into the barriers at the Sainte Devote corner on the 30th lap, sending up white smoke and stifling fumes. It is the exact same spot where Massa crashed during practice on Saturday morning. Within minutes, a crane lifted the fragmented red Ferrari off the track and Massa was sent to hospital for checks.

Ferrari technical chief Pat Fry insists that a technical fault was to blame. "Today's accident looked very similar to what happened in the third free practice session, but in fact the two incidents are very different," said Fry, according to Autosport. "Unlike yesterday, it seems that today's incident can be attributed to a problem on the left front corner of the car."

The safety car was brought out a second time for Pastor Maldonado after the Venezuelan crashed into the barriers, reportedly cut off by Max Chilton.

The repeat arrival of the safety car made for a high-speed conclusion to the race as the drivers were able to save their tyres for the final laps. This meant exciting viewing for F1 fans, despite the slow start in part one of the race.

Ferrari shouts 'Cheat!'

Mercedes and Pirelli have come under fire for allegedly carrying out a shady tyre testing session after the Spanish Grand Prix two weeks ago, reports The Guardian. Less than five hours after Rosberg seized victory, the FIA warned that the team could be penalised by a tribunal.

The accusations were laid by Red Bull and Ferrari before Rosberg's victory. They claim that the supposed tyre tests took place on 15th, 16th and 17th May without approval from the FIA.

"We are very unhappy," said Helmut Marko, Red Bull's special consultant, who insists that the tests gave Mercedes an unfair advantage. "When we test for three days, we go a second faster – that's what Adrian Newey [Red Bull's designer] says. It definitely helped them – you can see that they had no tyre problems today. That's no accident."

"There are sporting regulations that cannot be overridden by a civil agreement between Pirelli and the FIA," added Marko according to The Guardian. "The sporting regulations state clearly when and how you can test. We are seeking clarification of how to proceed and that the competitive advantage of Mercedes is compensated in some way."

Toto Wolff, the sporting director of the Mercedes F1 team, is outraged by the accusations. He said on Sunday, "What we did was exactly to the rules. I don't know where the complaint came from. I think it came from a triple world champion [Red Bull], and we're digging ourselves out of sh*t. We have just got out of sh*t and then we get a complaint like this. It's not how it should be.

"We stayed in Barcelona with the whole equipment, with the whole garage, with the trucks, with everything. There wasn't anything under cover," insists the sporting director.

Wolff is supported by Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery, who publicly insisted last week that the tests were perfectly legitimate and transparent. He refutes the notion that Mercedes had an unjust advantage. "It's completely regular in that we are allowed to do a 1,000-kilometre tyre test with any team," he said.

Even if the FIA find cause to lay penalties - an unusual phenomenon - nothing is likely to happen before next month's world motorsport council meeting.

The affair has cast a dark shadow over Rosberg's victory, but Wolff is determined to limit the damage. "The team have gone through difficult times in the past years and nobody and nothing can take that win away from us today."

Isabelle Younane

"Their poll only counts for 3.4 per cent of those on Nice's electoral register," Pierre-Paul Leonelli, president of the UMP party in Nice, told Nice Matin, "that means 96.6 per cent of the electoral body doesn't want to reject five years of work on the tramway project."

"How can we believe a poll that took place in the streets?" Leonelli reportedly added, "We can only deplore the lack of transparency."

While critics have suggested that the outcome is biased and strongly left leaning, the secretary to the local Socialist branch, David Nakache, tweeted, “If Estrosi wants to see who has voted [against the underground tunnel], all he has to do is organise an official poll.”  

In face of the criticism, Allemand replied, “We gave the Niçois people a chance to voice their opinion, and they took it.”

Allemand called the results “a victory for local democracy”, adding that, “The mayor of Nice can no longer ignore the strong feelings of the people.”

Allemand is sure to use the results of the poll to bolster support for his ‘alternative option’ to the existing Line 2 plans. In April this year, Allemand put forward a draft plan to create two additional tracks for less money. Costing around 742.5 million euros, this new concept eradicates the possibility of having a tramline to the port district but is gaining ground in popularity due to its lower costs and lack of interference with local trade areas, something Estrosi could not guarantee. Allemand has also said that extending the current line to Ariane is a main priority.  

The results are yet another set back for supporters of the underground Line 2 track and could add to the seemingly unending delays that have plagued the project since its launch in 2008.

Elsa Carpenter

Piloting the aircraft with a professional by his side, the learner was unable to stabilise the helicopter after takeoff, swiftly ending his lesson with an impromptu crash in the middle of a field.

According to neighbouring residents, the noise was deafening. Luckily, the pair onboard managed to escape unharmed.

But one surprised homeowner discovered that his roof and tiles were damaged by the out of control craft, some of which ended up in the pool.

Meanwhile, a police investigation has been opened into the incident. 

Nancy Jane Carragher

But Steven Spielberg shunned speculation. "The film is a great love story," the War Horse director told the press. "We were absolutely spellbound by the two brilliant young actresses, and the way the director observed his young players."

Unusually, the award, presented by Uma Therman on Sunday, was attributed to both the director and the two lead actresses: Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux. "It was an obvious conclusion that without Léa and Adèle, the synergy could not have happened," said Spielberg. "If the casting had been even slightly different, if anything had been a little left of centre, it wouldn't have worked. It was the perfect choice from a sensitive film-maker."

For the director, who grew up in the Moulins district of Nice, the film carried political weight. "I should like to dedicate this film to the wonderful youth of France whom I met during the long period while making this film," said Kechiche upon accepting the award. He also devoted the movie to the Tunisian revolution, where "they have the aspiration to be free, to express themselves and love in full freedom."

Spielberg's decision ironically coincided with a mass protest against gay marriage in Paris, which saw 150,000 people take to the streets of La Défense, according to police. The Manif pour Tous opposition group insist that they will continue to fight the law despite President Hollande giving his approval last week.

Spielberg insisted that his political sympathies did not come into play. "Politics was not a companion in our discussion; it was not in the room," he said, speaking for his jury which included Nicole Kidman, directors Ang Lee and Lynne Ramsay, and Django Unchained star Christoph Waltz.

The Awards

Grand Prix - Essentially the prize for second place, this award raised no eyebrows when it was handed to Inside Llewyn Davis by the Coen Brothers. The dark comedy set in 1960s Greenwich village received international acclaim with a five-star review from The Telegraph, showcasing the emerging talent of lead actor Oscar Issac. It was he who collected the award on the night, as both Ethan and Joel Coen had left Cannes for New York. Isaac hailed his directors, saying they "direct in stereo, it's like one brain in two different places at the same time."

Best Director - Amat Escalante took the coveted award for his oddly optimistic drug-drama Heli.

Best Actor - Widely tipped for an award, Alexander Payne's Nebraska nabbed a trophy for its lead actor, Bruce Dern. Once again, Dern had already left Cannes and Payne accepted the award on his behalf, praising the longtime actor as "so easy to direct, so eager."

Best Actress - French actress Bérénice Bejo proved that her oscar for The Artist was no fluke, as the star won a trophy for her performance in The Past by Iranian director Asghar Farhadi. "I would be nothing if there was not a director or crew or other actors," said the humble lead actress. "I already knew Asghar and his films, and that the stories were told so beautifully, he must be sure I was right for the role."

Jury Prize - French-produced films were certainly well-represented in the awards ceremony, but Japanese director Kore-Eda Hirokazu broke the mould by winning a prize for Like Father, Like Son, a light-hearted drama about familial bonds and parenthood.

Best Screenplay -  Jia Zhangke's A Touch of Sin won a trophy for its topical drama about four recent murders which have attracted huge attention in Chinese media. Its real-life subtext may not have been immediately obvious, but it was definitely commended by the jury.

The ceremony closed with a screening of crime thriller Zulu by French director Jérôme Salle, starring Oralndo Bloom and Forest Whitaker. Alongside critically acclaimed movies such as Steven Soderbergh's Behind the Candelabra, Tilda Swinton's vampire movie Only Lovers Left Alive and La Grande Bellezza, Zulu was among many films to go home empty handed.

But Spielberg made no apology for his jury's decision. "We didn't think we missed anything essential," he said. "It was a pretty unanimous choice for the three important films."

Isabelle Younane

A representative of CTM told France 3 Côte d’Azur, “If we had not had the mass support of around 100 people, I don't think they would have given all that they gave.”

Bus routes throughout the Alpes Maritimes, especially affecting the Cannes-Grasse-Mandelieu connections, went back to normal on the weekend - a relief for locals after some services were cancelled completely throughout the 10 day strike.

Nancy Jane Carragher

There are four different settings, each offering its own atmosphere. There's La Plage for daytime sun lounging with gentle waves lapping in the background; La Cantine from noon for lunch and from 7pm for dinner - cosy and private seating areas, cool and convivial, with a 'fisherman's' communal table capable of seating upto 42 guests; La Terrasse - the perfect place to stargaze (complete with free star map to locate the Big Dipper and Milky Way) while enjoying tapas and cocktails; and La Boite from 11pm, an intimate bar where DJs entertain and burlesque cabaret is on show.

But, thankfully, all this 'atmosphere' does not detract from the culinary delights on offer. The new Spanish chef clearly understands high-quality produce (sourced within a 100 kilometre radius, with the exception of some wines and champagne).

The appetiser of burrata cheese on tomato tartare is divine, the prawns delicate and meaty, and have you ever tried truffle pizza? Simply delicious.

The main courses are beautiful displays of fresh fish and meat, and it is almost unbearable to be patient for dessert. The mango mousse melts in the mouth, the baba soaked in Limoncello is interesting and tasty. These dishes are true to the inspirations of Nice, Monaco, Menton and Ventimiglia.

La Cantine offers great lunch menus, including entrée and main or main and dessert, a glass of wine, coffee and a bottle of water from 28 euros. The Sunday brunch at 48 euros looks very tempting, as does the 85 euro option with endless champagne!

The service is in keeping with A'Trego's new funky image, and individual courses are served on community boards; the keyword here is 'share'.

So are you curious to try A'Trego? We say go for it and see for yourself the 'glass box' on the sea.

Cassandra Tanti

Aila Stöckmann

Not only do they say they are so happy with the results they can now wear-shorts and bikinis, it's boosted their confidence and self esteem also.

One client hated the cellulite on her stomach and consequently never exposed her tummy. After about two months on the natural programme, she joined a belly dance class and proudly shows off her mid-section.

Natural anti-cellulite program

• Start your day by dry brushing your entire body from your feet up towards your heart (see bottom right article).

• Shower. One minute hot water (as hot as you can bear), one minute cold water (as cold as you can bear), and alternate for six minutes. It's like going to the gym - all your muscles contract with the cold water then relax with the hot water. You can also use hydrotherapy with a powerful jet stream from your showerhead.

• Massage a cellulite aromatherapy blend in circular motions into the affected areas, really massage deeply with your knuckles to break up the hard fatty deposits. Cellulite can be sensitive so use a pressure you can tolerate. Gentle massage won't really break up the fatty deposits so it's worth the extra discomfort.

As healthy cell function is restored, the cells metabolise the trapped fatty materials, process and remove the toxins, effectively breaking down the stagnant pockets that cause the appearance of cellulite. The heat from the water will relax the muscles and open the pores, allowing the aromatherapy pure essential oils to penetrate and work their magic!

• After showering, pat your skin dry. Whilst slightly damp with pores still open, gently massage 10mls of the cellulite blend with the palms of both hands to your affected area and the whole area to disperse the toxins and improve the flow of blood, picking up the toxins for elimination.

• Drink a cup of hot water. We wash the outside of the body, so it's important to wash the inside before we eat or drink anything.

• Eat a grapefruit. Grapefruit eliminates toxins in the body, synthetic drugs included. (Eating grapefruits may have a diuretic effect.)

• Drink plenty of purified water - 1 ½ to 2 litres.

• Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables.

• Eat a green Granny Smith apple - it keeps the kidneys happy.

• Avoid processed foods.

• Say positive affirmations. "I love my body. I have beautiful, firm, toned muscles and skin", "I am cleansing now!"

• Take deep cleansing breaths for at least five minutes a day! Breathe down into your stomach slowly for the count of four and breathe out slowly for the count of four. Western cultures tend to shallow breathe! Breathing is one of the ways in which your body rids itself of waste - it is not only the skin and digestive system that are seen as ‘cleansing’ organs. The lungs perform a vital role in this as well.

• Exercise. Gym-cardio vascular at least three times per week.

• Walk at least 1km a day. If you can't get out of the office, walk up the stairs - don't use the lift.

• Lymphatic drainage massage to help eliminate toxins and improve circulation.

DIY anti-cellulite cream

It is easy to make your own anti-cellulite aromatherapy blends.

But always check with a qualified aromatharapist first. You would not give an elephant the same dose as a mouse - an elderly person or a baby the same dose as an energetic student. If in doubt, use less.

For the base oil, use 4oz of natural unscented organic skin cream or lotion. You'll need a lotion that you can take the lid off and add oils to and mix evenly. Or you can use carrier oils, for example sweet almond oil that has the same chemistry compounds as your own skin, or grapeseed oil. For a 100ml bottle, you can add a maximum of 60 drops of pure essential oils (make sure it says pure 100 per cent essential oil on the bottle).

The best essential oils for cellulite

Many essential oils have detoxifying properties. The blend I recommend is Rosemary: 10 drops, geranium: 10 drops, juniper: 20 drops, spearmint: 10 drops and grapefruit: 10 drops. Mix into 100mls of organic base oil.

When this remedy is finished, change the rosemary, geranium and grapefruit for eucalyptus, black pepper and lavender. It is good to alternate the remedy as it gives your body an extra boost. When this bottle is empty, return to the original formula.

Beverley Holt

Healthy skin needs to 'breathe', so rid it regularly of dry skin cells and the body will react by producing new skin cells more rapidly. Your skin will immediately feel silkier and in the long term will look healthier, replacing that dry, pasty appearance.

The best way to dry brush your skin for optimal benefits is to start off with a natural bristle brush or loofa - my favourite is a long handled one as it's much easier to brush your back. It's also good if the head of the brush is removable to brush your feet better. Synthetic brushes or exfoliation cloths are harsh and create minute scratches on the surface that may result in drier, irritated skin. People with eczema, acne or other skin problems should consult with a health practitioner first.

Never 'scrub' your skin using hard pressure. Use firm but gentle pressure. Your skin should feel alive and tingly!

Always work in the direction of the heart. Start with the right foot, working in a circular motion first on the outside upwards then the inside towards the groin.

Repeat on the left also. Brush from hands up along the arms towards the collarbone - always work towards the supraclavicular lymph nodes that are located near the collarbone.

For the stomach area, scrub in a clockwise, using light circular movements from the navel outwards. For the back, start at the lower back towards your heart with long strokes or circular movements, if this is difficult.

All of the above will only add five minutes more to your morning routine.

Rinse off under a warm shower and there is no need to use soap or shower gel on the brushed areas of the body as they are now impeccably clean.

Beverley Holt

Five years into the Texan, a new location was proposed and, after a slight hiccup, the warehouse establishment at the port of Monaco was realised and a new name born - Stars ‘n' Bars. It looked very different in the early 1990s. The port was heavily industrialised and a pharmaceutical warehouse dominated the area.

"But we liked the feel and saw the potential," says Kate. "So we repainted it ourselves, we collected furniture and accessories literally off the streets and at second hand stores. We had old ski lift chairs at the bar and aeroplane seats, we had pictures of memorabilia on the walls because we didn't have the real thing!"

Eventually, celebrity friends began donating items to go on display, including Prince Albert II, who kindly handed over the toboggan that he used to compete in his first ever Olympic championship.

Monaco’s sports museum

Now, Stars ‘n' Bars is a veritable sports museum, even displaying a real Grand Prix car, recently donated by Finnish racecar driver and Monegasque resident Mika Häkkinen.

"It is the second Grand Prix car we've had. This time I think Mika just wanted to get it out of his living room," laughs Kate.

Since that opening day on 4th July 1993, when Kate and her partner DJ looked down from the balcony to see bumper to bumper of oncoming cars, Stars ‘n' Bars has been an iconic mainstay on the Monaco restaurant scene.

"Our motto at the time was, 'if we build it they will come', from the movie Field of Dreams. This place came from the heart and I wanted to be here for everyone, from princesses to the mailman."

So what are the things that stand out most in the past two decades?

"We've gone through two generations of customers," says Annette, Kate's right hand woman of 25 years. "The children that we knew 20 years ago are now bringing in their children, and the kids that used to come here are now asking for jobs. It's great to see."

Also, the most dramatic change is that the community has become far more interested in other people as well as the environment, which has obviously been inspired by Prince Albert," adds Annette. "I remember when he asked all the restaurants to stop using Mediterranean red tuna. We had a sushi restaurant at the time! But we found an alternative and went on to help other businesses do the same."

Setting the American trend

The restaurant was the first in the area to introduce American classics like the brownie and caesar salad. The concept of TV screens in a bar/restaurant was also revolutionary. But Monaco embraced the American culture with open arms. After all, it was the birthplace of the Principality's most famous princess, former Hollywood actress Grace of Monaco.

The lure of Monaco

Originally from Texas, Kate Powers moved to Monaco with her mother and family at the age of five. Her mother married Eduardo, a successful local chief conductor, and she spent the next decade growing up in the Principality, alongside the prince and princesses of the Grimaldi family. Despite returning with her family to the US, the pull of Monaco was too great and they all returned in the late 1980s.

One would be forgiven for wondering: surely, over the years Kate has used her ties with the princely family to get ahead in the world of business? "Not at all!" says this headstrong businesswoman convincingly. "I wanted to do it on my own, from my heart. We've always had the support, but I have never sought the influence."

So this is the kind of woman that Kate Powers is. Despite living most of her life in Monaco, a micro-climate for the super rich, where superficiality and loose business morals have been known to exist, she has managed to maintain a certain humility, a self-awareness that is not always present in people here.

For example, she never recognises any celebrities that step into Stars ‘n' Bars, much to the amusement of her staff.

"Someone came in and asked if I could get a celebrity a table. I said 'we're really busy but I'll do my best, who is it?' They said ‘Jude Law’ and I thought, must be an athlete.

"Later, I said to him 'I'm sorry but I'm probably the only person in the world who doesn't know who you are', and he said, 'That's ok, I don't who I am either.”

"That's the charm of Kate," smiles Annette warmly, "she doesn't seek celebrities and everybody is treated the same."

Has it ever gotten her into trouble?

"We had a Dallas burger on our menu and it said 'JR's favourite'. One day this guy said: ‘well how do you know this is JR's favourite?' and I said 'Oops, I guess you’re JR then?' Of course, it was."

The soft side of the businesswoman

It's also interesting to note that Kate is a very spiritual character, supporting countless local charities. And while there's an obvious financial benefit in her plans to franchise Stars ‘n' Bars throughout the world (they're looking at Dubai, India, Kazakhstan and Ukraine, after already launching in Abu Dhabi), Kate says she wants to put a message out to the world.

"Our motto has always been 'do what you love, love what you do and make a difference', and we want to carry it on into the world. Not just do another restaurant, but make people feel good when they come in."

Will these restaurants be known as Monaco originals, serving as an ambassador of sorts for the small Principality?

"There is a narrow view of Monaco - it is not just James Bond and Michael Schumacher, says Annette. “There’s culture, environmental and humanitarian commitments. This is a caring, giving community with the largest number of individual givers in the world per capita."

Is there anything Kate wishes she had done in the past 20 years? "Nothing at all," she smiles, "I have no regrets. This is the best place in the world."

Cassandra Tanti

The body's optimum pH sits at 7.35. A healthy body will keep our pH within safe levels but our diets can tilt the balance towards acidity, and that's when we start using up our precious stores of alkalising minerals like calcium, potassium and magnesium, to neutralise the extra acid.

Some health experts believe that excessive acid in our body's fluids can lead to symptoms like headaches, poor immunity, muscle weakness, fatigue and cramps. Reducing the intake of refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, alcohol and simple sugars has been shown to reduce these symptoms. Not surprisingly, people also gain more lean muscle.

Meanwhile, excess acidity increases calcium excretion which can lead to bone thinning and osteoporosis.

So how does it work? Every food we eat is either acid forming or acid neutralising (alkalising), and we should be aiming for a diet of around 25 per cent acid-forming foods and 75 per cent alkaline.

Acid-producing foods include:

Meat and fish Rice, oats and wheat

Some fruit including blueberries and cranberries

Some pulses including chickpeas, lentils, red kidney beans, mung beans

Cheese

Walnuts, pecans, cashews, dried coconut, pistachios

Sunflower and pumpkin seeds

Alcoholic drinks, coffee and tea

Most sweeteners (including sugar, syrup, processed honey, maple syrup)

Table salt and soy sauce

Ketchup, white vinegar and mustard

Alkali-producing foods include:

Most vegetables and fresh vegetable juices

Most fruit and fresh fruit juices

Beans like string, soya, green, sugar snap peas

Potatoes and quinoa

Almonds, chestnuts, pine nuts

Fresh coconut Sesame and linseed

Goat's milk, unsalted butter, milk and cream

Eggs

Low-fat natural yoghurt

Natural sweeteners like raw, unpasteurised honey, brown rice syrup

Garlic and most herbs and spices

Unprocessed cold-pressed oils

Cassandra Tanti

This was definitely the opinion of some audience members at Wednesday's screening, who booed the flick and its arguably tasteless violence, bound to give Quentin Tarantino a run for his money. Ryan Gosling's famed charisma failed to woo many international critics, with Robbie Collin of The Telegraph painting a bloody picture of "ragged hunks of meat" which are "horrible without being interesting."

Meanwhile, Alexandra Payne's Nebraska, a follow-up from The Descendants, emerged as a clear favourite after its screening on Thursday. The movie joins Bruce Dern and Will Forte as a father and son embarking on a trek from Montana. Speaking about the film last year, Payne kept expectations low.

"It's just a little comedy. It's nothing fancy. Nothing too ambitious," dismissed the director. But while the hugely anticipated The Great Gatsby failed to wow the masses, the downplayed Nebraska was a pleasant surprise, winning generally positive reviews across the board. More than an insubstantial comedy, the flick has been hailed for its warmth, pathos and moments of profundity.

Also screened for the first time on Thursday was Daniel Noah's Max Rose, starring the last living Burlesque comedian, Jerry Lewis. For the 87-year-old, the picture marks his first entry into the Cannes Film Festival since 1989, but does it do him justice?

"I thought it was the best script I'd read in 40 years," said The Nutty Professor star in a press conference. "It's an incredible movie that's going to give a lot of people a lot of pleasure. Daniel Noah wrote from his heart and put it on paper."

Lewis plays a recently widowed jazz pianist who fears that his seemingly happy marriage may have been a lie, as he suspects his wife had been in love with another man. For the actor, the flick speaks to the older generation. "It's a wonderful thing to think about people who are ordinarily ignored, and the elderly taught us all, we know everything we know from them."

But The Hollywood Reporter deemed Max Rose as a poor framework for Lewis' comeback. "The Cannes festival has done no favours to Jerry Lewis by choosing this mummified melodrama as a vehicle to honour him," said critic David Rooney, whose scathing review passed off the flick as "a staggeringly artless geriatric soap," overshadowed by the subtle complexities of Nebraska.

However, Lewis stole the show in his press conference. His characteristically absurd expressions, the centrepiece of his black-and-white comedies, shone out from beneath the wrinkles, setting off journalists in stitches. When asked about his "artistic and human relationship" with singer-actor Dean Martin, Lewis reportedly replied with a straight face, "He died you know."

At the other end of the spectrum, Blue is the Warmest Colour, an obscure lesbian love story by Abdellatif Kechiche, has emerged as an unlikely contender for the Palme d'Or. Critic Robbie Collin of the Telegraph handed the flick five stars, writing, "There is a certain look that creeps across a person’s face when you tell them one of your favourite films at Cannes this year has been the sexually explicit drama about young French lesbians."

Starring  Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux, the three-hour long drama shocked critics and audiences alike with its unashamedly graphic sex scenes, causing it to stand out as one of the most radical entrants for the Palme d'Or. Whether Jury President Steven Spielberg will be able to get past the nudity and hand Kechiche a trophy remains to be seen.

DAY 10

Marion Cotillard made her second red carpet appearance on Friday for James Gray's The Immigrant, an emotionally charged film about a Polish woman's painfully gradual loss of dignity as she fails to 'make it' in New York city. This dark mockery of the American Dream was predicted to be a major contender for an award, but mixed reviews have raised a question mark.

The Hollywood Reporter praised "the splendidly atmospheric recreation of the Lower East Side" before concluding that "Cotillard makes the movie." The critic brushes over Oscar award-winning Joaquin Phoenix who plays the leading man,  Bruno Weiss.

The British press were far less forgiving. Peter Bradshaw cast off the flick as "a shapeless, stifling opera of sorrow" which is "gloomy and baffling" as well as "unsatisfying". He paints a picture of a depressing downward spiral that cannot be redeemed by Cotillard's aptitude for emotional intensity - a skill she proved as Edith Piaf in the heart-wrenching La Vie en Rose.

Impossibly youthful Cotillard certainly stole the limelight in her photocall on Friday morning, styled in an ivory panelled Alexander McQueen mini-dress and gold diamante Christian Louboutin pumps. Known for her classic style and elegance, the 37-year-old wore her hair in a voluminous bun.

Flashing flesh on the red carpet

The French beauty's high-necked dress was a welcome break from the flurry of plunging gowns, thigh-high slits and skin-tight tunics that have defined the 66th edition. The trend reached its climax at Thursday night's amfAR Cinema Against Aids gala at the Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc in Antibes - an event which welcomes the global stars of the Cannes red carpet.

Model  Irina Shayk opted for a hot pink gown with a cleavage-baring neckline, while 67-year-old Goldie Hawn proved that age was just a number in her bright yellow frock and yet another bold V-neck.

American actress Milla Jockovich may have made an unusual choice with her ivory frills and billowing sleeves, but her neckline, almost reaching her waist, was bang on trend. Kylie Minogue's plunging white gown also seized attention and Paris Hilton's dignity was barely concealed by her sheer dress and pink feathers.

Breaking the mould alongside Marion Cotillard was Aishwarya Rai, who went back to her Asian roots in a gold sari, and model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who opted for simplicity in a strapless white dress.

52-year-old Kristin Scott Thomas even wore a revealing number as she arrived on the red carpet for the festival’s premiere of her latest movie Only God Forgives. Her slim figure bathed in midnight blue sequins, Kristin turned heads with her low V-neck.

Pseudo Psy and flying to the moon with DiCaprio

There's a fake Psy in Cannes! A double of the Gangnam style singer has been spotted at the festival, having photos taken with celebrities and gaining access into high-profile events.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Korean star's replica had a whale of a time, spending a day at the Martinez beach restaurant and attending a high-profile party at the Carlton hotel. Whether he gave an exclusive rendition of that famous lassoo dance move, we cannot be sure.

However, the unidentified Asian man certainly managed to fool actress Naomie Harris, who Tweeted a picture of herself and 'Psy'. The truth came out when the real singer piped up on the social network, "Seems like there's another ME at Cannes... say Hi to him lol #PSYinSingapore."

In the mean time, a lucky bidder has won an out-of-this-world experience with Romeo + Juliet lead Leonardo DiCaprio. The unnamed winner of the charity auction held at the annual AmFAR Cinema Against Aids gala coughed up a massive 1.2 million euros, buying a ticket into orbit alongside the actor. The winner will board one of Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic fleet of ships for a worthy cause.

A second pair of seats sold for 1.8 million euros, totaling three million euros - a 50 per cent increase on last year's auction profits.

The final fling

The Cannes Film Festival comes to a close this weekend with the premiere of Zulu, the first Anglophone film to be directed by French-born Jérôme Salle. The crime thriller stars teen-heartthrob-turned-serious-actor Orlando Bloom, who rose to fame in Pirates of the Caribbean and Lord of Rings, but has been relatively absent from the Hollywood scene since.

Set in Cape Town, South Africa, the action unravels amidst political tension and the all too present ghosts of the apartheid. Bloom plays Ali Neuman, who narrowly dodged murder at the hands of Inkhata, a militant political party in conflict with Nelson Mandela's African National Congress.

The film is possibly one of the most enigmatic entries as few details have been disclosed, but with an African setting, a French director, a Hollywood cast and a random corpse found in a botanical garden, it is set to be an apt end to an exceptionally eclectic festival.

Isabelle Younane

The confession was a shocking conclusion to what began as a missing person case. Police were summoned by Cédric's mother Arlette at 8.30am on Thursday 23rd May when she noticed that 96-year-old Charlotte Poccioli was not in her bed.

There have been conflicting reports as to Arlette's knowledge of her mother's state before she raised the alarm. Some media suggest that she had already found fragments of her mother's body in the garden, while other regional media report that Arlette was merely concerned about Mrs. Poccioli's disappearance because of her poor mobility.

Asked by police where his grandmother might be, Cédric reportedly pointed to a fresh mound of earth in the back garden. The authorities proceeded to dig up the partial remains of his elderly relative.

Calm and composed, Cédric then allegedly showed police into the kitchen and opened the fridge, which contained a severed leg, an arm and other body parts of Mrs. Poccioli, according to the Alpes Maritimes public safety brigade.

The suspect then voluntarily admitted that he had "tasted" his grandmother's corpse - a confession which will be verified during autopsy.

Upon his arrest, the grandson claimed that he had committed the atrocities alone overnight. A knife was found on his person which may have been used to both kill and mutilate the elderly victim. Police also reportedly found a metal saw and shears in the house, which had been partially cleaned prior to their arrival.

A 45-year-old man who had been living in the same house was questioned by police on Thursday night. Some reports say that he has also been remanded in custody, but this has not been confirmed.

Meanwhile, Cédric was briefly admitted to the psyhiatric hospital of Sainte Marie on Thursday. According to Nice Matin, he is now in police custody at the Auvare station and is under medical surveillance while investigations continue.

Isabelle Younane

The British airline is renowned for its cheap flights, and has been successfully upping the anti on the French market for years now. This summer, it’s offering 70,000 seats from France at less than 49 euros between June and September.

French giants of the air-fare business, Air France, has been dethroned at Nice for the first time ever by the British line, just before the critical summer months. 

Nancy Jane Carragher

On Tuesday 21st May, police forces and a demolition crew gave the remaining families no choice, and they left the site for good - only to move a few kilometers downriver.

Several of the families have now taken up residence near the Charles Albert bridge in the Gilette commune, just a few hundred metres from the PSIG police barracks.

“They have moved into a red zone in terms of flooding,” Mayor of Gilette Pierre-Guy Morani told local newspaper Nice Matin.

Residents in the area are also not particularly pleased with the move. The Alpes Maritimes prefecture has refused to comment.

Nancy Jane Carragher

The fair provides plenty of information from the world of terrace décor, including architecture, design, gardens and this season’s trends.

Take a break from designing your dream home with the Vivre Côté Sud culinary salon, including everything from deep-fried delicacies to wok specialities, to truly take your eyes and taste buds on holiday.

All you have to do to enter is 'Register' for free online at www.rivieratimes.com by clicking here and send an email to marketing@mediterra.com with the subject title “Décor fair”.

Current subscribers are also welcome to enter the competition.

Closing date is June 2nd 2013. Best of luck!

On 26th June, Big Daddy Wilson is coming all the way from Carolina to share his powerful vocals and acoustic blues/folk sound. A veritable master of the blues, Wilson will take you all the way to the streets of Orleans.

On 27th June, Tom Principato & Fred Chapellier will combine their incredible talents and share the stage in a truly unique live concert.

Tom Principato, considered one of the best guitarists on today’s blues stage, has won some 22 wammies over his long career, including ‘Blues Best Guitarist’, ‘Best Blues Recording’ and ‘Best Blues Vocalist’.

Fred Chapellier won the ‘Revelation of the Year’ and ‘Best Guitarist of the Year’ titles in 2004 from Trophées France Blues. Since then, he has gone on to win international acclaim with his fusion soul/rock/70’s blues style.

Each concert costs 15 euros, while a two day pass comes in at 26 euros. Both evenings kick off at 9.30pm. More info: www.bspot.fr.

Nancy Jane Carragher

The offensive…

While Hollande entitled his second year in office ‘the offensive’, he swiftly placed the foreign vote on the backburner.

In 2012, 77 ministers signed an appeal in favour of the law. However, opposition came from ministers such as Manuel Valls, who said the idea doesn’t have strong public support. While the Elysée has said it remains committed to the cause, no progress has been made.

“On the vote for foreigners, I haven’t submitted the text because I know that the opposition doesn’t want it”, Hollande said last Thursday. “I don’t want to give the impression that we are looking to impose challenges before local elections.”

Once the bill is proposed in parliament, it will have to win over a 60 per cent majority vote. If that doesn’t work, a referendum could be called to decide whether or not to change the constitution.

The president’s current inertia is linked to the fact that the left majority can’t achieve a 60 per cent vote alone. So, Hollande will have to fight for alliances. Alain Vidalies, minister for parliament relations, told national newspaper Le Monde: “We are working everyday to try and find republicans who would support this initiative, on top of the leftists.”

Where it all began…

The subject has long been the cause of heated debate and controversy in the French republic, first proposed by the former socialist president François Mitterrand in the 1980s.

The French reaction has sparked complaints of discrimination and racism over the years aswell. Earlier in 2013, Mayor of Nice Christian Estrosi shocked advocacy and rights groups when he declare: “I’m outraged by this, because it would mean giving the right to vote to people who hate France, detest secularism, and reject our laws.”

Under the 1992 Maastricht Treaty, France must allow EU citizens who are resident in France to vote in its local and European elections – but extending that right to all other foreign nationals would require constitutional reform.

Many European countries have already given non-EU foreign nationals the right to vote, including Denmark, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Greece, Ireland, Norway, Luxembourg and Belgium, to name a few. Others such as Spain have agreements with certain foreigners from countries including Argentina.

Yet 12 countries, including France, Germany and Italy, do not allow any voting rights to non-EU residents. 

Hollande said that the proposal will still go ahead in 2014. “After the elections, there will be no issue. It will be submitted to parliament which will adopt it if it wants to.”

Nancy Jane Carragher

The funds were trafficked out through fictitious accounts to influential customers in order to buy political loyalty between the years of 2005 and 2007. Vice president of the Alpes Maritimes general council at the time, Andrieux was charged in July 2010, along with 21 other suspects.

The alarm was raised by Tracfin, the Ministry of Economic Affairs anti-laundering group, who noticed suspicious financial movements in accounts of assocations that appeared to be nothing more than empty shell companies.

The MP's sentence is more severe than that requested by the prosecution in March. Vice prosector Jean-Luc Blachon pushed for a two year suspended sentence, a fine of 50,000 euros and five years' ineligibility.

Andrieux has denied any awareness of embezzling subsidies for election purposes. Following her conviction on Tuesday 21st May, she denounced the "unjust verdict" to national press and confirmed that she would make an appeal.

"I haven't committed any of the charges laid against me and I am going to devote all my energy into demonstrating this to the appeals court," she said in a press statement. Her sentence will be lifted during the appeal process, meaning she still holds her position in parliament.

However, Andrieux has announced that she will not take part in 2014 municipal elections. "This decision will not detract from my beliefs and the fight I have persistantly led," she assured, according to a report by Le Monde. "For the sake of clarity, I will not be involved in the local election debate until my innocence has been recognised."

The remaining 21 accused have been ordered to pay 716,593 euros in damages to the regional council.  The former director of regional planning, Jean-Guillaume Lalange, who was charged with turning a blind eye to the fraud in spite of the warning signs, has been acquitted.

Cahuzac scandal haunts Hollande

Sylvie Andrieux's conviction has overlapped with a public inquiry into the government's alleged implication in the tax evasion of former budget minister Jérôme Cahuzac. Opened on Tuesday, the same day that Andrieux received her jail sentence, the inquiry will include the interrogation of Socialist frontrunners including Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici, Interior Minister Manuel Valls and Justice Minister Christiane Taubira.

The special parliamentary commission will determinine whether the Hollande government tried to cover up for Jérôme Cahuzac.

The clampdown on tax evasion, formerly led by Cahuzac, has been a high priority for President Hollande as the PS hunt for new ways to beat recession. Economic downturn, cut-throat austerity measures and now parliamentary corruption are believed to be behind his plummeting approval ratings, which now stand at a meagre 25 per cent.

Questioned by the commission on Tuesday morning, founder of the Mediapart website Edwy Plenel was among the first to uncover Cahuzac's tax haven. Cahuzac repeatedly denied the claims before admitting to investigating magistrates in April that he owned an undeclared bank account in Switzerland that contained about 600,000 euros.

“Anyone at the heart of the republic who wanted to know could know,” said Plenel to the commission, according to RF1. He claimed to have communicated with members of Hollande's cabinet on 18th December, just two weeks after Mediapart published the accusations.

He is backed by his colleague Fabrice Arfi who claimed that Cahuzac's chief of staff Marie-Helene Valente was aware of a telephone conversation between Plenel and a unnamed witness of Cahuzac's suspect financial dealings.

However, all government ministers flatly deny any knowledge of Cahuzac's account. “The truth is very simple: up until the day that Jérôme Cahuzac confessed that he had lied, nobody, I mean nobody, in the government knew,” insisted Budget Minister Pierre Moscovici, Cahuzac’s former boss, to RMC radio.

Conservative politician Michel Gonelle was questioned on Tuesday afternoon. She publicised a tape of Cahuzac explicitly talking about the Swiss account. Arfi alleges that Gonelle wrote an email to a third party, citing this phonecall.

"The police were used to listening in on telephone conversations between Edwy Plenel and one of the protagonists in the case," Arfi told members of parliament. However, he did not say to whom the email was sent, nor how it came into his possession. He also admits that he is unaware of whether Interior Minister Manuel Valls knew of these police investigations.

Meanwhile, shamed minister Jérôme Cahuzac revealed to Depeche du Midi that he will not stand in the June by-election for his former seat in the southwestern administrative department of Lot-et-Garonne, saying he fears his return to public office will prompt a hate campaign.

Having resigned in March, Cahuzac now insists that he has repatriated the Swiss account and intends to pay his debts and donate any remainder to charity. He has also expressed a desire to write a book, shedding light on the long-hidden truth behind the affair.

Isabelle Younane

In China, a lack of fuel in the car in qualifying put Webber at the back of the grid. Then a wheel fell off during the race.

It fuelled conspiracy theories that Red Bull were purposely trying to sabotage their driver - the car was later found to have had three less litres of fuel than was required to complete the circuit, something Red Bull blamed on a faulty refuelling rig. Webber was later forced to retire from the race when his right rear wheel came off because it had not been correctly secured at a pit stop. It narrowly missed Vettel's car, which was passing at the time.

When asked about the idea that Red Bull might be trying to hamper Webber, Horner said, "That is complete rubbish. Forget conspiracy. It is all about trying to get two cars to finish as high as we can."

So instead of dwelling on his bad luck, Webber looked ahead to Bahrain - his 200th race.

"All in all, I'm happy with how I'm driving," Webber said. "I guarantee when we win our first race, we won't be thinking about Shanghai. So, that is the goal to get some positive results pretty quickly."

But the Australian F1 star won't be looking back fondly on his trip to Bahrain, as he struggled to seventh on worn out tyres.

"In the middle of the race I thought I could get on the podium, but then it was about pace management and it's a fine line between racing and saving tyres," he said later.

With his 28th career victory and second of the year, Sebastian Vettel looks like he might just be able defend his drivers title as triple world champion.

The Bahrain result put Vettel on the top of the F1 standings, where he has managed to stay despite a win from Spaniard Fernando Alonso at the most recent Grand Prix race at the Circuit de Catalunya.

Going into the Monaco Grand Prix, Kimi Räikkönen remains in second place, followed by ranking riser Alonso, Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes is fourth and Brazilian Felipe Massa for Ferrari now completes the top five.

It hasn’t been the best year so far for Webber, who has also dismissed talk that he is to quit Formula 1 and spearhead Porsche's Le Mans prototype project next year.

He told the media in April that he "hadn't made any plans" about what he would be doing next year but felt he currently had the backing of Red Bull.

"The team is doing a good job in terms of giving me what I need to be quick in the car," he said. "In terms of the reliability problems, they will be addressed very, very quickly."

The 36-year-old added, "I still have a lot to offer."

The competition schedule has thus far has resulted in some of the wildest action race fans could ever dream of this early in a campaign. With the next race just hours away, let's hope it continues at the Monaco Grand Prix.  

Race Information

Date: 26 May 2013

Circuit Name: Circuit de Monaco

First Grand Prix: 1950

Number of Laps: 78

Circuit Length: 3.340km

Race Distance: 260.520km

Lap Record: 1:14.439 (Michael Schumacher, 2004)

F1 Timetable

Thursday 23rd May

Practice 1: 10:00 - 11:30

Practice 2: 14:00 - 15:30

Saturday 25th May

Practice 3: 11:00 - 12:00

Qualifying: 14:00

Sunday 26th May

Race: 14:00

Cassandra Tanti

The workers of the CTM Keolis company are attempting to get their pay and work conditions increased, in line with those of drivers for the STCAR company, another Keolis company subsidiary.

Several buses have once again been cancelled and the strike could be continued on Friday.

·500 : Nice - Grasse

·500 Scolaire : Roquefort - Grasse

·600 et 610 : Cannes-Grasse

·610 bis : La Roquette-Cannes

·611 : Pégomas-Collège des Mimosas

·MA4 Scolaire

Nancy Jane Carragher

Roughly 23,000 midwives are currently employed in France and on average, each will help deliver 36 babies per year.

While the number may sound small, it is undeniable that a midwife holds an incredible amount of responsibility in her hands.

Speaking on the steps of a maternity hospital in Annecy, near the Alps, one midwife told reporters, “Having worked in this job for 32 years, I still only earn 2,800 euros a month… Do you think that is normal?”

But the midwives are not only looking for an increase in pay, they are clamouring for more appreciation, more respect, and more recognition for the very important job they perform day in and day out.

Elsa Carpenter

It comes as little surprise then that prince of period drama Colin Firth - star of Pride and Prejudice, The King's Speech and A Single Man - was quickly snapped up and cast for the leading role.

Fans on the Côte d'Azur can hope to get a glimpse of the actor and his soon-to-be co-star, Crazy Stupid Love heroine Emma Stone, in Antibes, Menton and northern Grasse from 7th July. Filming is expected to last at least 10 weeks and Allen's sister Letty Aronson is reportedly on the hunt for natural sets. Together with Stephen Tenenbaum, Aronson has worked on numerous of her famous sibling's recent blockbusters including To Rome with Love and Midnight in Paris.

Aronson was spotted paying a visit to Menton last week where she dropped into Villa Maria Séréna and its 19th century-style gardens, the Barrière Casino and finally the Serre de la Madone garden, which was built in 1924 by Major Lawrence Johnston. It is in this iconic garden that director Woody Allen is rumoured to be setting up his base camp, using the idyllic surroundings as a backdrop for much of the movie's action.

However, Colle believes the search for various locations is far from over. "They are still looking for some kind of castle or large manor house in the countryside surrounding Grasse or Vence," she said to Nice Matin. 

This new production comes hot on the heels of Allen's latest film, Blue Jasmine, which has only recently reached the completion phase and will not be released in the U.S. until 26th July. According to the film's distributor, Sony Pictures Classics, it is a "story of the final stages of an acute crisis and a life of a fashionable New York housewife" and stars film industry legends Cate Blanchett and Alec Baldwin.

Currently code named WASP 2013, the Riviera based project will be Allen's second film to be set in France and his eighth in Europe.

The announcement comes soon after the launch of the Côte d'Azur's latest tourism campaign which will see the south of France cement its reputation as the French capital of film. PACA's commercial giants have already begun organising themed tours and special exhibitions across the region's natural sets amidst claims that the big screen is the Riviera's most successful form of advertising.

Isabelle Younane

Demolition began yesterday morning at 9am. Large bulldozers and police arrived on the land as the last of the Roma families left their makeshift homes. The tents and shelters were then dismantled, and waste and rubbish collected.

A Nice court decision on 7th May forced the families out of the area, citing dangerous living conditions as the reason behind the eviction. Over 100 Roma people lived on the river bank.

Eric Ciotti, president of the General Council and the man who set the court action in motion, welcomed the evacuation, telling daily newspaper Direct Matin that “All must be done to avoid such a situation being reproduced in the future.”

Little has been done to help relocate the families, many of which include young children. Mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi has instead placed priority on not welcoming the travelling groups in the city of Nice.

“I hope that all measures are implemented to avoid the multiplication of squats, the installation of these populations in our public gardens and in various parts of the city,” Estrosi declared. The mayor also said that a meeting will take place between the city services and the municipal, prefect and national police to ensure new squats are not established.

Sub-Prefect of the Alpes Maritimes Jean-Daniel Montet-Jourdan did attempt to redirect women and children to PMI and social services, who could find them emergency lodging for a few days. However, this would necessitate separating the families. In the end, only one family were able to be temporarily re-housed.

An Amnesty International worker told local newspaper Nice Matin, “Taking into account their new material conditions, there is very little chance that they will continue to send their children to school.” 17 young Roma children have been schooled over the past few months, in an attempt to integrate in the local community.

Meanwhile, Estrosi reminded authorities of their obligations on rue Beaumont, saying, “Finally, I recall that the deliberation for the rue Beaumont squat should take effect within the next few hours, and I hope that the support of the public forces will allow an eviction as soon as possible.”

Nancy Jane Carragher

Hailed by international media as gloriously camp and flawlessly acted, Steven Soderberg's Behind the Candelabra is on its way to raking in a Palme d'Or and possibly an Oscar. Suited and booted Matt Damon and Michael Douglas drew in the crowds on the red carpet when they headed for the film's screening on Tuesday 21st May.

The film relates the true story of eccentric pianist Liberace (Douglas) and his chauffeur-turned-toyboy Scott Thorson (Damon). It's a plethora of peach suits and 70s hairstyles, but there's substance behind the flamboyant direction.

Hollywood Reporter's Todd McCarthy had nothing but praise for the movie, describing it as "superbly scripted, brilliantly directed, smart but never smarmy." The Telegraph gave the flick five stars, acclaiming it as "exceptional" and honing in on the leading man, Michael Douglas: "This is one of the greatest performances the 68-year-old actor has ever given, and he would be a shoo-in for an Oscar nomination."

Unfortunately the film is already disqualified from the Academy Awards as it has already been aired on TV. This is not the first time that the Cannes Film Festival has paid recognition to a TV film - Stephen Hopkins’ The Life and Death of Peter Sellers, Olivier Assayas’s Carlos and Philip Kaufman’s Hemingway & Gellhorn were all frontrunners in festivals past.

For the famed director, HBO was a vehicle for creative freedom. He said in yesterday's press conference that we are living in "a golden age of TV … In terms of cultural real estate, TV is really taking control of a certain kind of conversation that used to be the exclusive domain of movies. It's an interesting new model if you're someone who likes your stories to go narrow and deep; it can be a novel on screen."

Besides, a Soderberg's unconventional method did not impede him from pulling in a star-studded cast, with Hollywood greats taking the leading roles. Damon and Douglas are joined by Rob Lowe, The Blues Brothers' Dan Aykroyd and American Beauty star Scott Bakula. Not to mention Debbie Reynolds, who played the leading lady in Singin' in the rain (1952)....

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday prior to his appearance on the red carpet, Bourne Identity star Matt Damon expressed concerned about baring his backside to an A-list audience at the screening. "We'll see it on the biggest screen ever. It will be jarring," he warned. "This is not something you can un-see."

Though slightly shadowed by Sodeberg's biopic, Paolo Sorrentino's darkly satiric La Grande Bellezza emerged yesterday as a serious contender for the Palme d'Or, pitted against Inside Llewyn Davis. Toni Sevillo plays Jep Gambardella in this Italian-French collaboration, which explores the woes of an aging writer and his lost youth. Described as "opulent, intoxicating; a film that is not so much projected as draped like velvet - or possibly hung like a mirror" by the Guardian's Xan Brooks, Sorrentino's portrait of modern Rome is on the road to success.

Besides the leading males of today's screenings, Sharon Stone, Mila Jovovich and Jessica Chastain also made an impact as they paraded down the red carpet to view a screening of Cleopatra (1963) starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. The final mad touch on a day that entailed a camp Michael Douglas, Jason Bourne's bottom and now an Egyptian queen.

Cannes crime continues

But glamour has its dark side, as this week has revealed. Presented in court today, the notorious gunman who fired blanks and brandished a fake grenade during Canal +'s Le Grand Journal was barely comprehensible, claiming he "had a message to get across."

When asked by the prosecutor what this message was, the 42-year-old replied, "My action is not justifiable, not understandable... I am bombarded by information, between totalitarianism and oligarchy... I wanted to sort it out," reported to France 3.

"I didn't mean any harm," he added.

The unnamed suspect caused terror among the live audience of Le Grand Journal on the Croisette on Friday when he withdrew a Smith and Wesson pistol and fired two blanks into the air. He had allegedly purchased the blanks for 300 euros from a gun shop, according to judge Marc Joando.

Examined by a psychiatrist, the suspect has reportedly been deemed responsible for his actions and will hear his verdict on 24th June. 

But this is not the end of a crime wave that has included the burglary of the home of vice president of the China Film Group, Zhang Qiang, on Thursday and the theft of 750,000 euros of Chopard jewellery.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, CTI Group managing director Kevin Khanna and Silver Pictures co-president Steve Richards returned to their villa near the Majestic Hotel on Monday 20th May to discover that all their valuables were missing.

“In the span of an hour they had gotten into the house through the roof and gone through all of our rooms,” claimed Khanna. “They only took cash, laptops, iPads and women’s jewellery but left our passports and credit cards. They were very professional.”

Some similarities may be drawn to the Chopard theft, as Philippe Frizon, branch chief of the Nice police department, stated on Tuesday that this was no amateur crime. "We are looking at people who are specialised in this kind of theft," he said to Nice Matin. "At least three men broke into the room" of the Chopard employee "by passing through the neighbouring room."

Khanna has also lodged a complaint to the police, who he claims gave a weak response. “They told us we were lucky that we weren’t in the house and that no one got hurt," recalls Khanna, adding that the police said that "nothing could be done and that these robberies happen all the time."

Adding to the crime spree, Film Tree executives Graham Begg and Ed Sharp suffered a robbery at their Cannes apartment, claiming "Laptops, iPads, money, credit cards, clothes were among the items stolen," according to Begg. "They left our passports."

On top of major robberies, banker Charles Heaphy was reportedly mugged near the Cannes station late at night, while Gersh agent Jay Cohen and Waterstone Entertainment’s Stephen Bowen and Jeff Kalligheri were ambushed at 3am on Saturday outside the Palm Beach Casino. They claim that a agroup of men pushed and grabbed them, attempting to seize their wallets.

“They followed us for 10 minutes, then snuck up on us, and I put my umbrella in my hand like a punching glove,” said Cohen to the Hollywood Reporter. “Jeff told them we were sober so they may not want to do this, and eventually we got them away. The funny part was none of them were very large. But they want to take advantage of drunk people coming out of clubs.”

Speaking to the Hollywood Reporter after the incident, Khanna said this year's crime level has reached a new high. “There have always been issues with this sort of thing during the festival,” he said, “but it seems like there is more of it this year. I think it’s tied to the poor economic conditions.”

Isabelle Younane

However, Hollande's signature on Saturday 18th May has been opposed by 14,900 mayors in France as counted by the Mayors' Collective for Children. This means that almost half of the nation's municipal leaders are hostile to same-sex ceremonies. And the RTL radio station claims that more than 5,271 MPs have signed a public petition.

As expected, the heavily rightist PACA region is a stronghold for the opposition. Among the 14 mayors who have flatly refused to hold same-sex ceremonies in their town is the mayor of Grasse, Jean-Pierre Leleux, and the mayor of the 11th and 12th districts of Marseille, Robert Assante.

But despite alluding to the "freedom of conscience" that Hollande encouraged during an address to a mayors' congress in November, the mayors may be forced into submission.

"If any member of the council cannot or will not marry a gay couple, the prefect could intervene and demand that the mayor proceed with the wedding," said Bertrand Mathieu, a specialist in French constitution, to France TV Info. "The mayors who refuse will be outside the law."

According to Minister of Justice Christiane Taubira in an interview with Ouest-France, the punishment could be severe. "Applicants for marriage could go to court under the Penal Code against discrimination. The penalties are serious: up to three years imprisonment and a fine of 45,000 euros."

Nevertheless, some are prepared to take the risk. "I am ready to become a criminal by refusing a wedding," announced the mayor Abjat-sur-Bandiat in Dordogne, Jean-Claude Massion.

Isabelle Younane

Dialogue began again today between drivers and the company. Keolis told daily newspaper Metro that negotiations shouldn’t take too long, saying, “The financial gap is quite small and can be worked out quickly.”

But if negotiations are unsuccessful, the strike could continue for a ninth day.

This Wednesday 22nd May, cancelled lines include:

500: Nice – Grasse

500 Scolaire: Roquefort – Grasse

600 and 610: Cannes-Grasse

610 bis: La Roquette-Cannes

611: Pégomas-Collège des Mimosas

MA4 Scolaire

Nancy Jane Carragher

The process has been both lengthy and complicated, attracting global media interest as well as the attention of hundreds of people who have reportedly descended on the courthouse each day throughout the trial.

While reliable statistics vary, France 24 has reported that some 4,000 women worldwide have suffered ruptures in their implants and that in France alone, around 15,000 women have had their implants removed or replaced. According to Monique Goyens of the European Consumer Organisation, “Over 5,000 women are seeking compensation in French courts for the harm inflicted upon them.”

In light of this, prosecutor Jacques Dallest has called for company founder Jean-Claude Mas to receive a four-year sentence of imprisonment, a fine of 100,000 euros, and to be banned from working within the medical industry and from running a company.

Four other PIP executives are also on trial alongside the now infamous Mas, aged 73. Former general manager Claude Couty, quality control director Hannelore Font, techincal director Loic Gossart and product director Thierry Brinon have all been present at the month-long trial in Marseille and the prosecution has called for the men to receive prison terms of between six months and two years.

On Friday 17th May, as the trial drew to a close, the defense team for the scandalised French breast implant company reiterated that PIP still denies any wrongdoing contrary to Mas’s public April apology to the women affected. According to The Guardian, on 24th April, Mas told the media, "I apologise to the plaintiffs for the gel used by PIP since 1992… The anxiety syndrome described [in court by experts and witnesses] is real. I understand that they are suffering and that they are afraid.”

The ongoing PIP scandal has provoked serious concern regarding consumer rights and has put consumer protection firmly on the agenda, but as one health scare nears its end, another is just beginning.

Proceedings against Servier Laboratories, the makers of the ‘Mediator’ drug, began in earnest on Tuesday 21st May following a one-year hiatus.

Originally intended as medication for patients with diabetes, Mediator was often prescribed as a weight loss drug due to its anorectic properties. The drug was commercially available in France until 2009 before it was pulled from shelves amidst fears that it caused or contributed to valvular heart disease.

It has been alleged that Jacques Servier, the founder of the pharmaceutical group, and a number of former colleagues, who are also on trial, ‘deliberately mislead’ consumers of Mediator – a drug which has recently been linked to several hundred deaths and over 3,000 hospitalisations by an official report published in the Pharmacoepidemiology & Drug Safety journal in February 2012.

Elsa Carpenter

Lines one and two (both directions): Diversion through boulevard Rainier III and boulevard Princesse Charlotte. For line two, the Monte Carlo Tourisme stop will be in service for both directions. Lines one and two will travel from Saint-Roman and the Jardin Exotique, continueing through avenue d’Ostende and rue Grimaldi. Outward journeys will be changed to avoid the boulevard Albert Ier area.

Line four: This line will be joined to line six services, connecting Saint-Roman to Fontvieille via the Place d’Armes.

Line five: routes to port Hercule and rue Grimaldi will not be in use, with the section from Place d’Armes operating as usual. The bus service won’t go to the avenue de Port either. The two stops at the Port de Fontvieille will be served by line five in the direction of the hospital.

Line six: This line will be combined with line four. It will approach the Fontvieille neighbourhood via avenue de Fontvieille. The two stops at the Port du Fontvieille will be served by line six going in the Place d’Armes and Saint-Roman direction.

Nancy Jane Carragher

All eyes were on Marion Cotillard on bank holiday Monday as she swept down the red carpet with co-stars Clive Owen and James Caan. On route to a screening of her latest film Blood Ties, directed by her husband Guillaume Canet, the 37-year-old opted for summer attire in a yellow, white and black dress by Dior. She is the second VIP after Princess Charlene of Monaco to wear a piece from the Dior Resort 2014 presentation, which took place on Saturday.

Loyal to her roots, the Inception actress had slicked back her hair into French bun, which managed to withstand another day of disappointing weather. The endless bout of heavy rain that marred the opening ceremony may have subsided, but it was replaced by heavy winds which played havoc on celebrity hairstyles and flowing dresses.

A remake of 2008 French thriller Les Liens Du Sang by Jacques Maillot, Blood Ties is set in 1970s Brooklyn and centres on two brothers (Clive Owen and Billy Crudup) grappling against each other in the context of organised crime. For Marion Cotillard's husband and director Guillaume Canet, it is his first American film and an unsuprising choice of genre considering the French were among the first to regard American gangster films as high art.

Screened just hours before Blood Ties was the premiere of As I Lay Dying, starring James Franco, Tim Blake Nelson, Ahna O'Reill and Beth Grant.

Spiderman bad guy James Franco reportedly spent the day hopping from party to party in his statement blue suit, soaking up the buzzing atmosphere on the Croisette. The 35-year-old was first spotted by British press at the Torch yacht, a pop-up entertainment venue docked in the port. The Torch was hosting the Creative Coalition Dinner celebrating the Art of Julian Lennon.

Franco was also pictured at The Art of Elysium party on yet another yacht, held in tribute of Ahna O'Reilly, his co-star. Sipping champagne beside the A-lister was Monty Python star Terry Gilliam and Israeli television presenter Hoft Golan.

Monday 20th May reached a much-awaited climax at the evening screening of the new Coen brothers movie, Inside Llewyn Davis. Screams of "Justin Timberlake!" emanating from journalists, fans and even the presenters on the live set of Canal+ were followed by the appearence of the man himself.

"When we were all standing up on the steps, I was staring into the abyss of cameras and light," recalled lead actor Oscar Isaac to USA Today. "And Justin was like, 'Look out to the right'. And there was this sea of people all looking to see this (movie) happen. I hadn't even seen that. I was like, 'Oh, man. It was huge.' "

For the former singer, this year's festival is of major significance. It is the first time Timberlake has starred in a competing film, but in interviews he modestly shifted the limelight. "The credits came up and there was this huge ovation for Oscar," he said to USA Today. "He was in the eye of the storm and had the movie on his shoulders. It was a 'Voila!' moment. I was just really proud and happy."

Inside Llewyn Davis, the Coen bothers' take on the Greenwich Village folk culture of the 1960s, has been widely acclaimed in international media. The Guardian's film writer Peter Bradshaw gave the flick five-stars, naming it "the best so far in Cannes" - a huge compliment considering big-budget blockbusters such as The Great Gatsby have already screened.

Drama kicks off

With stars in their eyes, movie buffs congregating in Cannes may not have been aware of some major security hiccups. Yet another burglary stormed the Croisette over the weekend, this time prompting the outrage of Chinese film executive Zhang Qiang.

The vice president of the China Film Group was in Cannes to support Keanu Reeves’ directorial debut, Man of Tai Chi, when he discovered on Thursday 16th May that his bags had been snatched from his rented accommodation in Pierre & Vacances Résidence Cannes Beach. The film mogel made the discovery on his return from dinner, and ranted about French police on Weibo, a Chinese version of Twitter.

"Security in France is so bad, and the [people] are so arrogant," he complained, adding, "This film festival is not worth mentioning!"

Qiang claims that hotel staff did nothing when he asked for assistence except for offering to change the locks and suggesting he lodge a police complaint. Shocked and disillusioned, the executive scrapped his plans to attend a press conference for Keanu's coproduction with Universal studios.

The news comes close on the heels of yet another security failure, which reportedly took place on the same night. Thieves managed to pry their way into a safe belonging to a Chopard employee in the Novotel hotel in Cannes city centre, stealing 750,000 euros worth of jewellery, which was intended to be worn by the stars.

So far, no arrests have reportedly been made for either incident.

Meanwhile, a man who brandished a gun during the live Canal+ Grand Journal TV show i s appearing in court today. Believed by police to be suffering from psychiatric problems, the gunman caused a scare on Friday 17th May when he fired blanks at celebrities and revealed a grenade, which later turned out to be fake.

There were no casualties, but the incident provoked widespead fear among the audience and TV crew.

"The police intervened,"  said Michel Denisot, the programme's presenter, to his viewers. "He had a hand grenade. There were no bullets in the gun and the grenade was a fake." The programme was momentarily suspended, but broadcast resumed after a couple of minutes.

According to Marcel Authier, in charge of public security in the Alpes Maritimes, the arrested individual was a 42-year-old man. "It's someone mentally unstable who was immediately arrested," he said to the AFP.

Security for the 66th Cannes Film Festival was believed to be have been at an all-time high, as extra provisions were reportedly made following the Boston bombings on 15th April .

Palestine challenges Hollywood

But it's not all bad news. Also seizing the headlines over the weekend was a Middle Eastern contendor. For the first time in the history of cinema, a Palestinian film has been fully funded by the nation's movie industry.

Omar, a political thriller directed by Hany Abu-Assad, is one of 18 films in contention for the second major competition category in Cannes: Un Certain Regard. The category favours new filmmakers and bold plotlines, providing opportunities for entries which deviate from the Hollywood norm.

Abu-Assad said it took him a year to rake in the $1.5 million needed to film Omar, which was shot in the West Bank and the Israeli-Arab town of Nazareth in 2012. "For the first time, we convinced businessmen from Palestine to invest in the film industry. It's incredible," he said.

But the director is more interested in speaking to his people than making global history. "My first audience is the Palestinians and the Arabs and I hope they will be engaged with it," said Abu-Assad after the film's premiere. "Even if they are not on the West Bank or Palestine ... it is about the youth and Arab world now and I hope they can accept it and that they can relate to it."

Omar is up against Sofia Coppola's The Bling Ring, an American crime drama about celebrity-obsessed teenagers and starring Emma Watson. Screened on Thursday, the movie was a coincidental prequel to the Chopard jewellery theft.

So, where's the party?

It's easy to get disorientated in Cannes this time of year, with flocks of tourists bustling from hotel to hotel in a desperate attempt to catch a glimpse of the stars. And as international media will tell you, this has been an A-list year, with famous faces such as Eva Longoria, Dita Von Teese and heiress Paris Hilton cropping up along the Croisette.

But like a natural safari park, certain attractions can be found in certain places. You just need to know where to look.

Torch Platforms is famous for creating and running the best entertainment and hospitality venues at events such as the Cannes Film Festival. They host parties on beaches and yachts along the Croisette, so check out their website for the agenda.

The Hotel Intercontinental Carlton is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, meaning a double celebration is on the cards for the 2013 edition. Instead of staking out the hotel porch for VIPs, why not explore their fascinating exhibition of photos of festivals from years gone by, including snaps of Brigitte Bardot, Sylvester Stallone, and many more.

The VIP Rooms in Cannes is a hot favourite. Hosted by Swimming Wings Productions Inc., this elite venue attracts a young, fashionable crowd and is a place to be seen. It's tricky to get tickets, but it's certainly worth a try. Visit their website for details.

Le Bâoli is an unmissable destination in Cannes, frequently brimming with celebrities. The club-restaurant offers food, cocktails and chart-topping performers. Visit the website for more information. 

Nikki Beach will open its doors to the Cannes 2013 party on May 25th. For the venue's 10th anniversary, a huge surprise is in store for lucky attendees. Pay a visit to the Nikki Beach website to learn more. 

Isabelle Younane

The strict regulations will come into practice throughout the EU in January 2014, following a European Commission vote that saw 15 out of 27 countries supporting the measure.

The law has existed in Portugal since 2005 and follows a recent EU initiative to help olive oil producers who are suffering rising operating costs and falling profits.

Method behind the madness…

The olive oil sector is notoriously susceptible to fraud and the directive is hoped to ensure consumer protection alongside product hygiene. Non-refillable, pre-sealed and disposable packaging means that owners cannot dilute olive oil with products of inferior quality.

Producers will also have to improve labelling, as the European Commission is insisting on "labels that show more clearly and eligibly the name of the product and its origin." Brussels hopes that this will allow olive oil producers to strengthen their brands in the face of emerging competition and a fall in profits. The improved labelling will also better inform consumers.

Other measures included in the directive will see increased controls on the quality of oil in 2014 and higher penalties for olive oil fraud.

While olive oil production remains high and demand for the raw product is on the up, the market is being challenged by emerging producers who are offering olive oil at reduced prices. This competition, along with higher production costs and falls in profits, are causing problems for olive oil farmers in the Mediterranean basin.

The southern European region provides 80 per cent of the world's olive oil. Four of the biggest olive oil producers on the continent - Spain, Greece, Italy and Portugal - all voted for the directive. They are also some of the worst hit by the economic and olive oil crisis.

Bad press and popularity ratings

Criticism however, has not been lacking. Eurosceptics have seized on the news as proof that the bureaucratic union is out of touch.

Local elective Gaston Franco told local news site Côte d'Azur France 3 that the move would hit small farmers hardest, saying, “This measure goes against common sense and consumer and quality protection.”

“In fact, a number of small farmers do not have the means to package their oils in these bottles and will have to forego the restaurant market," he added. "A restaurant owner who wants to provide oil from a small local artisan no longer has the right and will see the price of its oil increase because of this new condition.”

Germany, who voted against the initiative, argued it would necessitate the needless discarding of olive oil - contradicting the EU food waste campaign.

Meanwhile, international media including the New York Times, Reuters and the BBC have questioned the necessity of strict rules for olive oil in the middle of a recession.

At the very least, the move is guilty of extremely bad timing. A Paw Research Center survey, released on 13th May, revealed a further decline in the EU’s popularity among all eight of the countries surveyed. 

Meanwhile, German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung said that regulating restaurant's methods of serving olive oil at a time of an extensive euro crisis was the "weirdest decision since the legendary curvy cucumber regulation", referring to old EU laws regulating the shape of fruit and vegetables sold in supermarkets.

Nancy Jane Carragher

Mouche appeared to be the perfect gentleman and later introduced the woman to two men posing as art connoisseurs. Impressed by the art she was shown, the retiree purchased three individual pieces, ranging from a Salomon d’Emile Gallé amphora priced at 900,000 euros to an Alberto Giacometti statue which set her back over two million euros.

Oblivious to Mouche’s scam, the lady organised for money to be exchanged and it eventually passed through a Cypriot bank account. It was the last she heard from ‘Charly’ and his accomplices.

Over three million euros out of pocket and left with the luckless art which would later prove counterfeit, the woman called on the Police Judiciare of Nice to intervene.

Mouche, along with his wife and the wife of one of his accomplices, was tracked down and found living in a trailer in the Ardennes mountain range in February 2012.

Over a year later, the case has finally been brought to a close. Charles Mouche was formally sentenced to five years in prison on Friday by the Crown Court of Nice while his fugitive partners in crime, still on the run, have been sentenced to double that in absentia.

Elsa Carpenter

But what is particularly important is that the region provides the largest airport in the country outside of Paris. Effectively, Nice acts as a gateway to the rest of the world and last year alone welcomed a record-breaking eleven million passengers through its airport.

As competition increases among airlines, passengers are the biggest winners, benefiting from reduced ticket prices and more services. The budget flight war also continues to deliver great deals.

How does a trip to Barcelona sound? Or the ancient country of Malta? Perhaps a quick flight to Istanbul for a culinary tour, or Dubai for some shopping and modern architecture?

Overall, the Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport accommodates flights to 104 destinations across the globe, a steady increase from the 78 offered in 1997.

Each week, the airport will handle 813 flights within Europe, the most common of which are destinations in the United Kingdom, Germany and Switzerland.

The 2013 summer season will also see a total of 69 direct flights to international locations including Africa, North Africa, North America and the Orient.

Emerging from a quiet winter, airlines are now starting up their summer services, boosting flights to popular destinations across the globe. Delta Airlines has reintroduced its flights to New York, and many European destinations are back on the flight map.

This season, the Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport has added eight new destinations to its schedule: Alesund, Norway; Bremen, Germany; Catania, Italy; Kristiansand, Norway; Liège, Belgium, Moscow Domededovo Airport, Russia; Exeter, UK; and Prague, Czech Republic.

Meanwhile, four new airlines will be offering flights from the Côte d'Azur: Germania, Thomas Cook Arilines, Fly Non Stop and Czech Airlines. The number of regular companies which fly in and out of the airport has ebbed and flowed over the years, from 44 in 1997 down to 38 in 2001, levelling out at 55 in 2013.

This year, the Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport will be offering more weekly flights to Europe than in the previous year, but less domestic flights in France (-20 per cent).

The good news for passengers is that capacity for European flights increases from 217,475 per week (2012) to 226,946 - an expansion of 9,471 seats (4.4 per cent).

In addition, regular flights to other transit airports, particularly in Germany and the UK, are giving passengers an exciting array of international destinations across the globe.

The price war between airlines has now made flying an affordable past time for almost everybody. While easyJet has been the traditional budget airline of the Côte, Air France entered the fold this year with its new 'mini' economy flights, cutting costs to 58 destinations across the globe with tickets ranging from 49 to 139 euros.

The continual presence of new flight paths increases competition among airlines, for example Spain has seen a 48 per cent increase from Nice thanks to new easyJet, Iberia and Vuelling flights.

Flying in and out of Nice couldn't be easier, and it's opening up the city to a host of travel possibilities.

Cassandra Tanti

Cahuzac, 60, a digestive surgeon recruited as an adviser to a Socialist health minister two decades ago, turned his medical talents to more lucrative cosmetic and hair-implant techniques while acting as a consultant to the pharmaceutical industry as he also pursued a political career. In 2009, as chairman of the finance commission in the lower house of Parliament, he moved his undeclared Swiss account to more distant Singapore.

The scandal weakened an administration already perceived as feeble, in which President François Hollande and Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault appeared weakest of all, just as Hollande approached the first anniversary of his May election. It also hurt senior cabinet ministers, including two with hitherto high popularity ratings.

The question was: who knew what and when? Under the spotlight was Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici, Cahuzac's superior. Accusations flew that Moscovici's approach to Switzerland seeking information about a possible Cahuzac account was too narrowly focused and designed to cover Cahuzac, charges that Moscovici vigorously denied.

Then came Justice Minister Christiane Taubira, popular thanks to her good humour during two weeks of parliamentary debate on gay marriage, and Interior Minister Manuel Valls, riding high because of his firm law-and-order stance. Given that police and magistrates under their orders were seeking - and finding - evidence about Cahuzac's account, did they not blow the whistle? When did they tell Hollande and Ayrault?

As Hollande, who called Cahuzac's behaviour "unpardonable," sought to limit the damage by obliging ministers and parliamentarians to reveal their financial affairs, Claude Bartolone, the Socialist parliamentary speaker, questioned the wisdom of this, saying it could fuel one of the least attractive French national traits: envy of the wealth of others.

With Hollande's popularity ratings at 26 per cent, a record low so early in a presidency, several politicians warned of violent protests as France emerged from months of a severe, grey winter into spring sunshine. Unlike the historic left wing student and workers' riots of May 1968 which shook the rule of Charles de Gaulle, this, if it happens, could come from disparate sources: ranging from a far Left disappointed by what it sees as a soft-pedalling Socialist government re-sembling its conservative predecessor, to a far Right determined to block gay marriage.

François Fillon, the prime minister for five years until Hollande's election, summed up Hollande's record so far as "a catastrophe". Jean-Pierre Raffarin, prime minister from 2002 to 2005, meanwhile, said he feared violence. Hollande's treatment of Cazuhac, meanwhile, smacked of "complicity or treachery", Raffarin told Canal+ television.

For Mr. Laury, preserving links with the United States via the media is of vital importance. "I think that the great nation that is the United States enthuses our listeners and especially our loyal listeners in Monaco," explains the general director. "Princess Grace has woven our countries together with an unbreakable golden thread. I also want to point out the closeness of our two countries via numerous associations and above all by the attachment of our Sovereign Prince to the Unites States."

What's more, Radio Monaco has a playlist to match, featuring chart-topping stars from Rihanna to British band Depeche Mode. "We create a musical programme which is open to the world, of creative artists, new sounds and mixes. We hope it's pleasant, allowing people to listen for longer without getting bored while preserving our DNA: new discovery."

But with so many natio-nalities to satisfy, the question must be raised of whether the regional radio station could end up neglecting its Mone-gasque listeners. Mr. Laury insists that this will never be the case.

"We already broadcast programmes regarding local news, as in your publications," he assures, "and we always try to stick as closely as possible to our editorial policy to satisfy our foreign audience without spreading ourselves too thinly." The fact that Radio Monaco's online list of 'most consulted articles' is heaving with local news and events heavily supports this statement.

From May, The Riviera Times Editor Cassandra Tanti and Editor in Chief Jean-Christophe Dimino will host a short segment once a week on local news, information, and life as a foreigner in France. For all the details, visit our website www.rivieratimes.com.

Meanwhile, general director Christophe Laury has more plans up his sleeve for Monaco's multinational community. "Broadcasting in other languages is one of the major projects for the next academic year," he says, adding that he hopes his new partnership with The Riviera Times "will assist us in this development."

"Your publication is of high quality, your readers have something in common with Radio Monaco: curiosity!" - a curiosity that can only be fed by a broad spectrum of media outlets.

"To this day, the public tune into the radio, television and websites at breakneck speed, while also being logged into social networks," explains Christophe.

"We prioritise additional information: photos that we can broadcast, live footage on our website or on our Facebook and Twitter pages."

"The world of sound, the imagination it inspires, will adapt within a few years. Maybe one day we will broadcast odours, a radio in ‘odourama’ who knows!"

Isabelle Younane

In addition, some routes remain completely inactive for the third day in a row, especially in the Cannes basin area.

The CTM have renewed the strike, meaning the disruptions will continue for a further four days.

From Friday 17th May to Tuesday 21st May, the following lines are not running:

500: Nice – Grasse

500 Scolaire: Roquefort – Grasse

600-610: Cannes – Grasse

610 bis: La Roquette – Cannes

611: Pégomas – Collège des Mimosas

Nancy Jane Carragher

The jewels were meant to be loaned to celebrities for their red carpet appearances during the Cannes Film Festival. The luxurious Swiss Chopard company is actually one of the official sponsors of the event.

Coincidentally, the theft took place on the very same day as ‘The Bling Ring’ film was screened. The movie, starring Emma Watson, is centred on the theft of designer items from celebrities' homes.

Police in Nice are reportedly leading the investigation.

Nancy Jane Carragher

Prince Rainier III spent 30 years assembling around 100 personal and antique automobiles. The collection now features some of the most famous European and American racing models.

The collection is open everyday from 10am to 6pm and can be found at Les Terrasses de Fontvieille in Monaco.

Cars on show:

Ferrari 1990, driven by G. Berger & N. Mansell

Ligier Renault 1991, driven by T. Boutsen

Jordan 1993, driven by T. Boutsen

BMW Williams 2000, driven by R. Schumacher & J. Buton

Bar Honda 2001, driven by J.Villeneuve & O. Paris

Prost Acer 2001, driven by T. Enge, J. Alessi & H. Harald

Jordan 2003, driven by G. Fisichella

McLaren 2004, driven by D. Coulthard & K. Raikkonen

McLaren 2007, driven by F. Alonso & L. Hamilton

Toyota 2007, driven by J. Trulli & T. Glock

Nancy Jane Carragher