Livin' the high life on the French Riviera

Current City: Cannes, France

I guess we didn't realize that Cannes could - and would - be the most expensive part of our trip. Fortunately, it is also the most relaxing place we have been so far...give and take, right? We have spent the last two days lounging in the lap of luxury. There are quite a few beach clubs that line the beach, and for about the same price as dinner you can rent one of their lounge chairs for the entire day - either on the sand or on the pier. Yes, yes the public beaches are free....but there's something to be said for spoiling yourself every once in awhile!

my life for the past two days

We are staying at the Chanteclair hotel located in the middle of old Cannes. The location couldn't be better...we are steps away from the cutest street in the city, the beach, and tons of restaurants.

On our first evening we took a walk down the street that parallels the water...basically Santa Barbara's Cabrillo Boulevard. This is the "très chic" part of Cannes, where you find the Carlton Hotel, haute couture shops, and the venue for the Cannes Film Festival. Hearing our English, an older man began walking with us. He told us about the best spots in Cannes, the most touristy places to avoid, and some of his life story. And then this 83 year old man asked as to have champagne on his terrace. That's when we said, "Merci!! Au revoir!!!" and hurried off to have dinner. 

the Cannes harbor

The last couple of days have been incredibly relaxing - exactly what I need before starting a potentially stress filled semester. In just a few hours I will be in Nice and meeting my host mom! I am increasingly excited to settle in Nice and begin my classes!