The city of Cannes in the Côte d'Azur or French Riviera has become largely known for one thing: the International Film Festival held there each May. It is a time when movie enthusiasts around the world are glued to reports from the Palais des Festival. Images of reknowned film stars participating in what has become, over the past six decades, a storied and highly-anticipated event, dominate the world's news wires.

However, once the red carpet has been rolled up and the kleig lights dimmed, many people do not realise that life in Cannes, the second most important French city after Paris, not only goes on, it thrives. The city is a centre for international business tourism, a place where conference attendees are only surpassed by pleasure-seeking tourists during the summer months.

In the 1960s, Jacques Médecin, the Mayor of Nice, recognised the French Riviera's seasonal dependence on summer tourism for economic stability and set out to make the Côte d'Azur a destination for business congresses and conventions. Nowhere are the successes of his efforts more evident than in Cannes.

But whether in the city for work, play, or a pleasing combination of both, Cannes does not disappoint. From the yachts and cruise boats docked in the Old Port to the curving, sandy beaches of La Croisette, Cannes, like all the resorts on the French Riviera, showcases the Mediterranean climate of the region.

During the summer season from May to September, the sun shines upwards of twelve hours per day. Temperatures range from 23°C in June and July to days of more than 35°C in August. Cool sea breezes make the evenings balmy and refreshing, perfect for a stroll along the city's famous promenade lined with designer shops and fashionable eateries.

With restaurants and bars serving drinks until 0200 and casinos open until 0400, the section of Cannes around La Croisette and running along la rue du Dr Monod and la rue Saint Antoine in Le Suquet hum into the early hours of morning. Excellent dining can be had for as low as up to €50 with superlative fare averaging €120. (These estimates suggest average prices for three-course meals including a half bottle of house wine with tax but not service.)

The Cannes shopping centre lies between La Croisette and rue d'Antibes. At least one assistant in every establishment speaks English, and the district is easily traversed by foot. Expect designer boutiques showcasing Dior and Gucci, or turn to the bustling market atmosphere of Rue Meynadier where prices are more modest.

Though once a small fishing village on the Côte d'Azur, Cannes is now a 21st century city where modernity coexists with a luxury resort sensibility. The glorious climate draws tourists on holiday and businessmen who prefer to work where they can also play. And, each May, the red carpets once again unfurl and the eyes of the world turn to Cannes, glittering jewel of the French Riviera.

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