As the world’s biggest brands, A-listers and power players descend on the French Riviera for the Cannes Lions, Page Six asked a luxury travel expert where the jet set is checking in, dining out and escaping the crowds this summer.
Jack Ezon – founder and managing partner of Embark Beyond, a lifestyle partnership specializing in exclusive travel experiences – gave Page Six some travel tips and insight on what to do and where to go at the festival and this summer.
Q: What trends are you seeing in tourism in Cannes and the French Riviera in general at this time of year? Which hotels are booked?
A: The two strongest markets for us this summer are the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast. Revenue in these sectors is projected to grow by nearly 100% in 2022. Almost every jet-setter hotel is full, although there are still great areas in Monte Carlo and Cannes and even untouched palaces like the Byblos in St. Tropez, the Four Seasons Cap Ferrat, or even the Hotel du Cap in Antibes. The main thing is to deal with last minute cancellations.
Q: What were some hidden gems for travelers after Cannes Lions?
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A: All eyes are on Cannes this year, thanks to the unveiling of a spectacular reinvention of the historic Carlton that is literally redefining Cannes. Over the years, the city has been ignored by the jet-set crowd, choosing nearby Monte Carlo, Antibes or Cap-Ferrat. Most of these stemmed from a lack of amazing places to stay.
With a $500 million investment, the Grand Dame of the French Riviera has not only become France’s hottest hotel, but has single-handedly revitalized Cannes. Accommodation on the Riviera. We love to combine it with the hustle and bustle of Monte Carlo, the beautiful New Maybourne Riviera or St. Tropez. For those looking for a detox-retox fusion, a trip to glorious Provence, just two hours away by car, is a delight.
Q: Did you get a glimpse of the renovated Carlton? how is it? What will Cannes Lions attendees love about the new space?
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A: There are some grand dams here which will give you goosebumps while passing through them. Carlton is one of them. When it comes to renovating one of the world’s most iconic hotels without losing its soul, the Regent has mastered it. You know where you are. It’s utterly classic, paying homage to its original Art-Deco and Belle Époque style with a fresh, bright and polished contemporary look.
The addition of the expansive courtyard and pool now provides a spectacular view for those who are not able to face the Croisette. The rooms feature bright white carpets, rich lacquered wood, luxurious amenities and tasteful linens. The restaurants are on a new level, and the terrace has probably the best breakfast view on the coast.
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Why: You mentioned Provence as a destination for travelers after Cannes. I noticed that George Clooney stayed at the Villa Galisi in Aix after the Cannes Film Festival this year. Where are people staying and do you think tourism is growing in the area?
A: Le Bastide and Villa La Coste in Gordes are Provence’s new darlings, both offering a completely different experience. Le Bastide is located in the ancient hilltop village of Gordes, overlooking the Luberon Valley, which has been meticulously renovated in traditional style by the renowned Arles group. In contrast, Villa La Coste is an ultra-modern villa set on a vast vineyard full of dramatic modern art.
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In nearby Avignon, Crillon-le-Brave is set in an ancient commune rich with a sense of place and history, lavishly remodelled, with modern luxuries, while the pretty Fontenille outside Aix is perfect for visitors who want to experience being a guest in a friend’s Provencal home. Let’s not forget St. Tropez, the hottest spot on the coast for the true jet setter who retreats into retreat with much more peace of mind.
Q: What are some of your personal favorite hot spots in the area in terms of hotels and restaurants?
A: I also love the quaint village of Les Baux and the beautiful Osteau de Baumanière. It’s not the most sophisticated and newest hotspot, but it’s full of charm and soul.
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Q: Are there any must-do or must-see things in Cannes or the French Riviera in general?
A: I’m crazy about the French Riviera, summer, winter, spring or fall. There is always something going on. In fact, I love Monte Carlo in winter – the restaurants and shops in it are wonderful and elegant, like Paris, with a very mild climate (without the crowds). The casino is still one of the most fascinating affairs you have ever experienced.
Art lovers should make a pilgrimage to Saint-Paul de Vence, filled with art galleries. Take a stroll along the Croisette – it’s always spectacular. Because I love nature, I love going on road trips to the nearby Calanques National Park, which is nothing short of spectacular. I love going to the beach clubs and nightclubs in Cannes such as Carlton Beach Club, Plage Keller and, my favorite, Bavly Beach, which becomes an incredible club as the evening approaches.
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Although it doesn’t have the glamor of Cannes and Antibes, I love shopping in the old town of Nice. Stroll past the beach into Juan Les Pins to meet local families in a charming village between the jet-set sanctuaries of Cannes and Antibes. You can’t leave without taking a quick boat ride to La Guerite Island for lunch!
Q: Media and advertising executives are worried about economic instability and a possible recession but you say travel is booming – why is that?
Answer: It is not explainable. People keep spending as if it is burning a hole in their pockets! They continue to travel this summer in the Mediterranean or on winter holidays in the Caribbean Sea, no matter what the cost. We have been talking about a recession for more than two years and we don’t see it in our bookings. What will happen in future? Who knows…. That’s why I think everyone just wants to live now and worry about finances later. I mean, you can choose to live with memories or dreams. You only live once!
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