The Latest from the FlipKey Blog

Posted: 19 Apr 2012 10:40 AM PDT

This week we are featuring, Rob Toledo, a world traveler who hopes to one day get a foot on every continent. He is working along TravelEx currency exchange creating guides of various places in the world. Follow him on Twitter @stentontoledo

Every May, Cannes becomes the darling of the international spotlight. We see the biggest stars of the screen posing in their finery in front of the gorgeous Palais des Festivals for the yearly Cannes Film Festival. Not only does the festival serve as a showcase for the best of upcoming films, but it also highlights the beauty intrinsic to the French Riviera. Yet Cannes is really so much more than the annual film festival. In fact, Cannes can be a destination spot for a vacation that includes it all: art, nature, and cultural.

Festival d'Art Pyrotechnique

Every July and August, Cannes hosts this festival that features international teams showing off their firework shows. When the evening falls, a different team is highlighted for some of the most impressive half-hour displays of pyrotechnics. Travelers can find a spot on the beach and sit back for the festivities. The festival is also a competition, so the participants try to outshine one another with cutting-edge programs set to music. It's an all-around win for families traveling with children or for those of us who are really just big-kids at heart.

Château de la Castre and Fort Royale

Located at the top of the Susquet hill, this castle was built in the 11th century. Travelers can explore this ancient castle whose original purpose was to guard against pirates on the open sea. Today, the castle houses an impressive collection of pre-Colonial artifacts and art. The largest component of the collection is Mediterranean artifacts from Iran, parts of Africa, and Greece. Art buffs interested in primitive arts, such as those from Asia, will also find a large of assortment of pieces to ogle.

Across the sound, sits Fort Royal. Historically, the fort was used as an important military base by both the French and Spanish monarchies. Upon being recaptured by the French in the 17th century, the site then became a state prison. Those familiar with the tale of The Man in the Iron Mask will recognize this as its setting. Visitors can expect to learn a lot about the French Rivera's storied past and the historical aspects of Cannes.

And Who Can Forget The Beaches

Of course, Cannes earned its reputation as a travel hotspot because of its miles of beaches. While most of the beaches are private and require a fee for day use, there are public beaches located on both ends of the city. However, they tend to be crowded and pebblier than the private beaches. If you like to see and be seen, a private beach attached to one of the major shore hotels might be just right for you. For their rather hefty entrance fees of up to $30, they offer day use of parasols and beach recliners as well as access to world-class restaurants that cater to folks in their swimsuits. For something more off the beaten path, a quick ferry ride out to the Illes de Lerins might be in order. Not only can you explore castle ruins and a monastery and sample their homemade foods and wines, but the islands are full of quiet coves for swimming, snorkeling, finding shade beneath the palm trees, and finding a moment of solace from the bustling shops and beaches of downtown Cannes.

Find Vacation Rentals

Friday, April 20, 2012