There is no better place to have a rendezvous than in France and if you are going to have a real experience then a luxury travel expert is a must. If I really plan properly I’ll stop off in Paris first to view the latest couture collections at my favorite shops. I’m inspired with a private tour of the workshops and apartments of Coco Chanel and Yves St Laurent. Guests can view the renderings and writings of these legendary fashion icons as well as view Coco’s jewelry collection. Once I’ve been inspired with some new gowns I’m ready to intermingle with the celebrities.
With the summer months fast approaching my sights are set on the Cannes Film Festival May 15-26 where my guests have the opportunity to walk the Red Carpet with a celebrity followed by attendance at the most glamorous events such as the annual Chopard or Miramax parties. In between I suggest gorging at Felix – a very modern bistro usually hounded by the jet set and the more traditional Gaston Gastounette known for its seafood. The closest hotels to the movie premieres are located on La Croisette and while my favorite is the Majestic Barriere you may consider the Martinez or Carlton Hotels or perhaps a boutique hotel or private villa – which is when Concierge & Events by Victoria will plan your luxury travel experience in Cannes. I won’t tease about all the wonderful day or overnight trips one can take to other fabulous locales which include wine and cigar tastings at chateaus and gallery walks in quaint towns- one of which is – Antibes – home to the world’s mega yachts and therefore, a free outdoor floating museum. Another favorite spot of mine and apparently, for many of the movie stars is Hotel Du Cap Eden Roc – sexy and fabulous. I won’t say more, but as an event planner who simply adores the Riviera and France as a whole, there is much to see and do.
I’m an adrenaline junkie so even if you didn’t obtain a Grand Prix Monte Carlo experience created by Concierge and Events by Victoria you could fly into Paris and attend Roland Garros – The French Masters which is May 26 – June 9. I always receive great feedback from clients who appreciate watching legendary players from their Private Box at Central Court while sipping champagne and enjoying a gastronomic lunch. How civilized! My preference is to stay at the Ritz Paris (also former home to Coco Chanel). I am only sad as it is currently closed for renovations. One of my best hospitality experiences was when my shoes broke and the concierge at the Ritz had their official car whisk me away to Le Bon Marche where I happily purchased a pair of Jimmy Choos just in time to party for the night. And while I eagerly await their reopening, I’ll switch to the more intimate Le Meurice Hotel or the very elegant Four Seasons Hotel. This won’t stop me from strolling around Place Vendome and shopping at Chanel and Boucheron. In the evening after dining at Maison Blanche – a very modern gastronomic experience in a simplistic white room with magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower, I’ll listen to some jazz at the bar in George V where my favorite pianist Philippe is playing.
If you have plenty of leisure time, then you may consider traveling along the various stages of Tour de France June 29- July 21 which starts in Porto-Vechio – Bastia – along the magnificent course of Corsica. If you can’t join the cyclists there you can always catch them in one of many wonderful places such as Nice, Aix en Provence (my absolute favorite hotel property is the romantic and very tucked away Villa Gallici) or Mont Saint Michel. There are twenty –one stages which end in Paris so if you are the energetic and athletic type then consider Concierge & Events by Victoria to create a cycling experience along one of the many stages complete with wine picnics. Clients will have the opportunity to have a pro cyclist give them lessons and follow the actual routes and teams either by car or bicycle. In Paris clients of Concierge & Events by Victoria will celebrate the team’s victory in VIP hospitality style with parties and cocktail receptions.
I have yet to mention all the wonderful vineyards and historic excursions one can take throughout the country sides during Tour de France, but I am ready to open a bottle of 2004 Chateau La Nerthe which I picked up on my last trip to Chateauneuf-du-Pape located in the Provence region. Au revoir!
For more info on experiencing these events, contact me here.