From ILTM Cannes to the Countryside: A South of France Journey
At the beginning of December, Sally and I traveled to France to attend one of the most influential events in the global luxury travel industry, ILTM Cannes. This event brings together the world’s top hotels, resorts, cruise lines, and destination partners in one place. It allows us to strengthen existing relationships and, just as importantly, secure direct access to new properties and experiences before they reach the wider market. The connections and insights gained at ILTM translate directly into tangible benefits for you as a client — from preferred rates and upgrades to insider knowledge, priority access, and truly bespoke experiences that aren’t available through standard channels. In short, ILTM ensures we stay ahead of trends and maintain the personal relationships that elevate your travel from excellent to exceptional
Slowing Down in Provence
After Cannes, heading inland to Provence felt like hitting a reset button. Life moves a little slower here, and that’s exactly the point. Days are meant for wandering local markets, enjoying long lunches, and soaking up the scenery without a packed schedule.
Provence is perfect for travelers who want something authentic—small villages, local food, and experiences that feel more “in the moment” than over-planned. It’s the kind of place where doing less somehow feels like doing more.
We had the pleasure of staying at Château de Berne, which is a quintessential Provençal escape nestled amid rolling vineyards and olive groves in the heart of southern France and about an hour and half drive from Cannes. The serene 5-star Relais & Château estate encompasses elegant rooms, private villas, a world-class spa, cooking school, and an immersive range of wine-focused experiences against 1,200+ acres of organic vineyards and Mediterranean landscape. At the heart of its culinary offering is Le Jardin de Berne, a Michelin-starred restaurant led by Chef Louis Rameau, celebrated for its refined, season-driven cuisine that highlights estate-grown vegetables, herbs and local produce while also holding a Michelin Green Star for sustainable gastronomy. Dining here is a highlight of a stay, pairing exceptional Provençal flavours with the estate’s acclaimed wines
Tourtour: A Favorite Find
One of my favorite stops was the village of Tourtour, often called the “village in the sky of Provence.” Sitting high above the surrounding countryside, the views are incredible, and the village itself is full of character.
Stone buildings, quiet streets, and shaded town squares make it a wonderful place to wander without an agenda. It’s not flashy or crowded—just genuinely charming. Tourtour is exactly the kind of spot I love recommending to travelers who want to experience a side of Provence that feels local and unhurried.
Nice: Easy, Elegant, and Full of Life
From the countryside, I made my way back to the coast to spend time in Nice. It’s a city that often surprises people—in the best way. There’s a great mix of history, culture, food, and beach time all in one place.
The Old Town is lively and colorful, the Promenade des Anglais is perfect for an evening walk, and there’s always somewhere great to stop for a meal or a glass of wine. Nice also makes an excellent home base for exploring the rest of the Riviera, which makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors to the region.
We stayed at the Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, which is a standout 5-star luxury destination on the Côte d’Azur that marries historic Belle Époque charm with modern sophistication. Housed in a beautifully restored landmark building dating back to 1848, the hotel overlooks the Jardin Albert 1er and the iconic Promenade des Anglais, placing guests within effortless walking distance of Nice’s vibrant old town, upscale boutiques, galleries and Mediterranean beaches.
Where to stay in Nice:
Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel
A Quick Trip to Monaco
Monaco is an easy and fun day trip from Nice, and it couldn’t feel more different. It’s polished, glamorous, and packed into a very small space. Monte Carlo is known for its luxury cars, casino, and yachts, but there’s also a quieter side in the old town, where history and amazing views take center stage.
It’s the perfect place to spend a day exploring before heading back to the more relaxed pace of the French coast.
Where to Stay in Monaco: