Nice Airport Sets New Passenger Record in 2024

 

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport has reached a historic milestone, welcoming 14.8 million passengers in 2024 and surpassing its previous record of 14.5 million set in 2019.

This achievement is attributed to the addition of 13 new long-haul routes, including seven to North America and six to the Gulf states. Furthermore, the airport's winter schedule now includes 76 destinations across 35 countries, operated by 41 airlines.

Balancing Growth with Sustainability Challenges

Despite this remarkable growth, the airport faces challenges related to environmental concerns and infrastructure development. Terminal 2 is undergoing an expansion to accommodate rising passenger numbers, with completion anticipated by summer 2025. However, the project has sparked debates regarding its environmental impact and potential noise pollution.

Franck Goldnadel, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur, emphasizes the importance of balancing growth with sustainability: “Directly connecting the Côte d’Azur to major cities in the region and developing direct routes to international capitals is the way to responsibly meet the transport needs of the Côte d’Azur residents and all those who come to visit us. This is the challenge of sustainable and necessary air transport.”

Significant Progress in Emissions Reduction

Despite the increase in traffic, the group has made significant strides in environmental sustainability. By the end of 2024, Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur had reduced emissions under its direct control by over 93%, with Nice Côte d'Azur Airport achieving a 95% reduction compared to 2013 levels. Environmental studies conducted in 2024 present a promising outlook for continued improvements.

Goldnadel highlights the collective commitment of the aviation sector to decarbonization: “Between the efforts made by the airport on its own emissions and those linked to stopover phases, and the efforts made by the entire aeronautics sector to decarbonize its operations, all stakeholders are committed to reducing the environmental impact of air transport.”

Looking ahead, the group projects an 11% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2034 compared to 2024, driven by advancements in infrastructure and the adoption of lower-emission aircraft.

Nice: The Most Filmed City on the Côte d'Azur

Nice, the cultural hub of the Côte d’Azur, has long been a magnet for filmmakers drawn by its Mediterranean charm, stunning landscapes, and cinematic history. This French Riviera city stands out as the most filmed destination in the region, a title it has earned through decades of international productions, iconic movie scenes, and its intrinsic appeal to directors and cinematographers.

A Record-Breaking Year for Filming

According to recent data from the Nice Town Hall, the city has surpassed its own record for the number of filming days in a single year. In 2024, Nice hosted an incredible 610 days of filming, solidifying its position as the Riviera’s filmmaking capital. The productions included three feature films, several television series, documentaries, music video clips, fashion shoots, and adverts. This diversity of projects highlights Nice's versatility as a filming location, catering to a wide range of creative visions and genres.

A Cinematic Legacy

From the silent film era to contemporary blockbusters, Nice has been featured in countless productions. Its cinematic history dates back to 1896, when the Lumière brothers filmed some of the earliest motion pictures in the city. This historical connection solidified Nice’s reputation as a foundational location in film history.

The city’s status as a filmmaking hub is also reinforced by its proximity to Cannes, home to the world-famous Cannes Film Festival. Many filmmakers working on the Côte d’Azur have used Nice as a backdrop due to its blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

Iconic Locations

Nice offers an abundance of filming locations, each with its own cinematic allure:

• The Promenade des Anglais: This world-famous seaside boulevard is a favorite for its sweeping views of the Mediterranean.

• Old Town (Vieux Nice): With its narrow, winding streets, colorful facades, and bustling markets, Vieux Nice provides a quintessentially French ambiance that has appeared in numerous films, including romantic dramas and period pieces.

• Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Offering panoramic views of the city and its harbor, this location has been a popular choice for aerial shots and dramatic scenes.

• Place Masséna: The vibrant heart of Nice, with its checkerboard pavements and striking red façades, has served as the backdrop for both modern films and classic cinema.

  
  A Magnet for International Productions
  
  Thanks to its picturesque settings, Nice has attracted filmmakers from around the world. Productions ranging from James Bond movies to French New Wave classics have leveraged its iconic locations. Films like Ronin (1998) and Transporter (2002) have used Nice for high-octane action sequences, while romantic dramas such as Magic in the Moonlight (2014) have captured its more tranquil and enchanting sides.
  
  
  The city’s international appeal is further enhanced by its accessibility. Nice boasts an international airport, a major train hub, and world-class hospitality, making it a convenient base for film crews.
  
  
  

  Supporting the Film Industry

  Nice actively supports the film industry through its regional film office, the Commission du Film Alpes-Maritimes Côte d'Azur. This organization assists filmmakers with permits, location scouting, and logistical coordination, ensuring that productions run smoothly.
  

  In addition, the Victorine Studios in Nice have been instrumental in producing both French and international films since their establishment in 1919. These studios, nicknamed “Hollywood-sur-Mer,” have hosted legendary directors such as François Truffaut and Jacques Demy, further cementing the city’s place in cinema history.

  

  Nice as a Star Itself

  Nice is more than just a setting; it often plays a role as a character in its own right. Its glamour, vibrancy, and timeless beauty infuse films with a unique charm. Whether in romantic interludes, thrilling chases, or contemplative moments, Nice’s presence elevates the storytelling.
  

  As the most filmed city on the Côte d’Azur, Nice continues to inspire and captivate filmmakers and audiences alike. With its rich cinematic heritage, record-breaking 2024, and enduring allure, the city remains a beacon for the global film industry, embodying the magic of the French Riviera on the silver screen.

How Spain's 100% Property Tax Might Drive Non-EU Buyers to the French Riviera

 

 

Spain has long been a magnet for international property investors, thanks to its sunny climate, picturesque landscapes, and relatively affordable real estate. However, a recently proposed 100% property tax on certain high-value properties is threatening to upend this dynamic. Aimed at targeting speculative investment and addressing housing shortages, this policy may inadvertently drive non-EU buyers—a significant segment of Spain’s luxury property market—to seek alternative destinations, with the French Riviera emerging as a prime contender.

The Implications of Spain’s 100% Property Tax

The proposed tax is part of Spain’s broader effort to cool its overheated housing market and curb foreign speculation, which some argue has driven up property prices to unsustainable levels, which is true in many cases. The tax would apply to properties exceeding a certain value threshold, potentially wiping out any profit for high-net-worth investors. For non-EU buyers, who already face additional hurdles such as visa restrictions and bureaucratic red tape, the prospect of a steep tax could serve as the final deterrent.

This proposed policy comes amid growing tensions around housing affordability in Spain’s major cities and coastal areas. Local residents have increasingly voiced concerns that foreign buyers, particularly those purchasing luxury second homes, are pricing them out of their own neighborhoods. While the government’s intention is to make housing more accessible to locals, critics argue that the tax could have unintended consequences, such as discouraging investment altogether and damaging the broader economy.

Why the French Riviera Is an Attractive Alternative

For non-EU buyers, the French Riviera offers a compelling alternative to Spain. Known for its glamorous coastline, luxury lifestyle, and stability, the region has long been a favorite among property investors. Unlike Spain, France has not imposed punitive taxes on foreign property buyers, instead maintaining a more investor-friendly environment that balances regulation with economic incentives.

Key Advantages of the French Riviera

1. Stable Property Market: France’s property market is seen as less volatile than Spain’s, offering investors a sense of security. The French government has historically implemented policies that promote stability rather than sudden, sweeping reforms.

2. Prestige and Appeal: From Saint-Tropez to Monaco, the French Riviera embodies luxury and exclusivity. For high-net-worth individuals, the region’s global reputation as a premier destination adds significant value beyond mere property ownership.

3. Infrastructure and Amenities: The French Riviera boasts world-class infrastructure, including top-tier healthcare, international schools, and convenient access to major European cities. This makes it an ideal location for families and retirees alike.

Economic Ripple Effects for Spain

Spain’s 100% proposed property tax risks more than just alienating non-EU buyers; it could have broader economic repercussions. Foreign property investment contributes significantly to local economies, particularly in regions like Andalusia, Catalonia, and the Balearic Islands, where tourism and real estate are major economic drivers. Reduced demand from international buyers could lead to a slowdown in construction, job losses, and decreased revenue from property-related taxes.

Moreover, Spain’s competitive edge in the international property market could erode, especially as nearby countries like Portugal and Italy actively court foreign investors through favorable tax schemes and golden visa programs. Losing non-EU buyers to the French Riviera or in France overall and other alternatives would only compound these challenges.

The Bigger Picture: Balancing Regulation and Investment

Spain’s move highlights a broader dilemma faced by many nations: how to balance the need for housing affordability with the benefits of foreign investment. While the 100% property tax aims to address valid concerns about housing inequality, its potential to drive away high-value investors underscores the complexities of such measures. Policymakers must weigh the immediate benefits of tax revenue against the long-term economic implications of reduced investment.

Conclusion

As Spain’s 100% proposed property tax looms, non-EU buyers are likely to reconsider their investment strategies. For many, the French Riviera represents a stable, attractive alternative that aligns with their financial and lifestyle aspirations. Unless Spain recalibrates its approach to foreign property investment, it risks losing a key segment of its real estate market to neighboring countries that are more attuned to the needs of global investors. In the competition for international capital, policies matter, and Spain may find itself learning this lesson the hard way.

Celebrating 5 Years of Unity and Support: The Fight AIDS Monaco Cup Marks a Milestone

 

Monaco is set to host the 5th anniversary of the Fight AIDS Monaco Cup on January 22, 2025, at the iconic Stade Louis II. This milestone event continues the proud tradition of raising awareness and funds to combat HIV and AIDS while uniting athletes, celebrities, royals, and the wider community for a common cause.

The Fight AIDS Monaco Cup, established in 2020 under the patronage of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, supports the efforts of Fight Aids Monaco, a nonprofit organization she founded in 2004. The charity is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with HIV, promoting education and prevention, and combating stigma associated with the disease.

This year’s event promises another thrilling matchup between two symbolic teams: the Barbagiuans, representing Prince Albert II, and the Circus FC, championed by Princess Stéphanie. Over the years, these teams have included prominent figures from the worlds of football, entertainment, and the principality’s social elite.

Expected participants for the 2025 match include former football legends, beloved local celebrities, and notable supporters of Fight Aids Monaco. Fans can anticipate electrifying performances on the pitch alongside a celebration of camaraderie and philanthropy.

The Fight AIDS Monaco Cup is more than just a football game—it’s a platform for advocacy and solidarity. Over the past five years, the event has contributed significantly to raising funds that provide essential services such as counseling, medical assistance, and social support for those living with HIV. It also plays a pivotal role in fostering public dialogue and dismantling misconceptions about the condition.

Over its five-year history, the Fight AIDS Monaco Cup has become a hallmark of philanthropy and sportsmanship in the Principality. Princess Stéphanie’s unwavering commitment to the cause has inspired countless individuals to join the fight against HIV and AIDS.

As the event celebrates its 5th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of collective action in addressing global health challenges.

The Fight AIDS Monaco Cup on January 22, 2025 at 17h30, is poised to be a momentous occasion, bringing together people from all walks of life for a memorable evening of sport, compassion, and hope.

Tickets are now available, and proceeds will directly benefit the life-changing initiatives of Fight Aids Monaco.

Mark your calendars, and join the Principality in supporting a brighter, healthier future. For more details, visit the official Fight Aids Monaco website.

The Jardin Exotique de Monaco Reopens in Late Summer 2025

 

After extensive renovations, the Jardin Exotique de Monaco is set to reopen to the public at the end of summer 2025.

Closed since the start of the March 2020 lockdown, the Exotic Garden is expected to welcome visitors once again. Monaco’s mayor, Georges Marsan, confirmed this timeline in the municipal magazine Monaco Vivre ma Ville. “The end of summer 2025 will mark the reopening of this unique site, cherished by Monegasques and the many tourists who visit our country,” he stated.

The renovation project initially began for technical reasons, primarily to secure unstable rocks and replace footbridges. However, the scope of work expanded, delaying the reopening for three consecutive years. “We used this opportunity to enhance the site and completely renovate it, including the entire upper section and courtyard,” explained the mayor. This redesigned area will provide more options for hosting private events like weddings, with features such as a new bar to accommodate guests.

The Prince’s Government funded the renovation, while the Town Hall focused on the upper section. Throughout the project, the Botanical Center remained active, and gardeners diligently maintained and protected the park’s plant species “with the greatest care,” assured the mayor.

Nice Upgrades Tram Network for Better Westside Links

 

As of January 6th, travelers in Nice have been adapting to a revamped tram network aimed at improving links between the city center and its rapidly growing western suburbs. The updated routes and schedules are designed to reduce wait times, enhance access to key areas like the Eco Valley, and support the needs of an expanding population.

While the changes aim to create a more connected future for the city, the adjustments come with challenges. Some travelers may face disruptions due to canceled stops and modifications to well-used routes, raising concerns about short-term inconvenience despite the long-term goals.

Until recently, Ligne 2 connected Port Lympia in the east to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport’s Terminal 2, continuing to the CADAM administrative center. That route has now been discontinued.

Four stops—Paul Montel, Les Moulins, Digue des Français, and CADAM—have been removed from Ligne 2. Passengers heading to CADAM must now transfer trams. From the city center, they can take Ligne 2 or Ligne 3 to Grand Arénas, where they can switch to the new Ligne B, which now directly serves CADAM.

For travelers from Saint-Isidore to the city center, the changes bring an improvement: no more transfers. Ligne 3 now runs directly from start to finish, with trains arriving every seven minutes.

However, users of the CADAM park-and-ride facility (formerly Charles-Ehrmann) face an added step. They must take Ligne B to Grand Arénas and then transfer to Ligne 2 or Ligne 3 to reach the city center. Meanwhile, those using the park-and-ride near Ikea can now travel directly to the city center via Ligne 3.

Speaking to France 3, Gaël Nofri, president of the Lignes d’Azur network and head of parking in Nice, outlined the rationale behind the tram network changes. “We need to connect the western districts of the city to the city centre,” he explained. “This new tramway plan, designed for 20,000 users, will reduce waiting times and improve access to the Eco Valley.”

The overhaul reflects efforts to align the network with the rapid growth of neighborhoods like Saint-Isidore, Méridia, and Plaine du Var. City officials say the updates were informed by attendance studies and consultations with local committees.

While acknowledging potential disruptions, Nofri admitted, “It will probably be necessary to walk a few kilometers from time to time,” but emphasized that the changes aim to deliver a better overall service.

The French Riviera: A Winter Wonderland with a Sunny Twist

 

Just a couple of decades ago, the Côte d’Azur was primarily seen as a summer destination, with travelers flocking to its sun-drenched beaches and then heading home as soon as the season ended. In recent years, however, word has spread, and we locals have noticed a growing trend: visitors are increasingly choosing to explore the region in the early spring or autumn months. Now, post-COVID-19 lockdowns, an even newer trend is emerging—more and more people are discovering the unique charms and benefits of visiting the French Riviera in the winter.

When most people think of the French Riviera, images of glamorous beach days, bustling summer festivals, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean often come to mind. However, this iconic destination transforms into a unique and equally enchanting experience during the winter months. With its mild climate, vibrant winter events, and serene beauty, the French Riviera is a must-visit for those seeking a winter getaway that balances charm, relaxation, and adventure.

300 Days of Sunshine: A Winter Escape Like No Other

One of the most compelling reasons to visit the French Riviera in winter is its incredible climate. Boasting 300 days of sunshine a year, this Mediterranean paradise enjoys mild winters that feel more like a gentle autumn. Temperatures typically hover between 10–15°C (50–59°F), making it perfect for outdoor exploration without the chill of harsher climates. Whether you're strolling through the pedestrian streets of Nice, exploring the picturesque village of Èze, or sipping coffee at a seaside café in Cannes, the Riviera’s winter warmth is a treat.

The clear skies and soft sunlight also offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline and the surrounding mountains. The contrast of the sparkling blue sea against the snow-capped Alps in the distance is a sight that you won’t soon forget.

Festive Winter Carnivals: A Season of Celebration

The French Riviera in winter is alive with colorful festivals and cultural events that bring a festive spirit to the season. Chief among these is the Nice Carnival, one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world. Held every February, this event transforms Nice into a citywide celebration of music, art, and joy. Spectacular parades, elaborate floats, and dazzling light displays make it a vibrant experience for visitors of all ages.

And Queernaval takes place on February 28th.

Another highlight is the Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) in Menton. This quirky yet enchanting event features larger-than-life sculptures made entirely of citrus fruits, accompanied by parades, live music, and a festive market. The creativity and craftsmanship behind these displays are truly remarkable and provide a unique cultural experience.

A Tranquil Escape from the Crowds

Unlike the bustling summer months, the winter season on the French Riviera is peaceful and uncrowded; this offers the opportunity to feel more like a local as well as offering the time to meet more of them. This quieter time allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and charm. Museums, galleries, and historic sites are more accessible, while the streets of popular towns like Saint-Tropez and Monaco are calm and inviting.

For outdoor enthusiasts, winter is an excellent time to enjoy the Riviera’s hiking trails. The Sentier du Littoral (Coastal Path) offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean, while the Parc National du Mercantour provides opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing just a short drive from the coast.

Affordable Luxury

Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy the French Riviera without breaking the bank. With fewer tourists, hotels, restaurants, and villa rentals often offer lower rates, making luxury accommodations and fine dining more accessible. Indulge in the region’s world-class cuisine, from fresh seafood to Provençal specialties, and savor local wines in a relaxed, intimate setting.

A Unique Blend of Sun and Snow

One of the Riviera’s most extraordinary features in winter is the ability to experience both sun-soaked beaches and snowy mountains in a single day. Start your morning with a leisurely seaside breakfast, and by afternoon, you could be skiing or snowboarding in the nearby Alps. This blend of coastal and alpine adventures is a rare combination that few destinations can match.

Conclusion

The French Riviera in winter offers a magical blend of sunshine, culture, and tranquility. With its mild climate, festive carnivals, and opportunities for adventure, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to escape the dreariness of colder climates. Whether you’re a lover of art, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Riviera’s winter charm will leave you captivated. So pack your bags and head to the Côte d’Azur this winter—you’ll discover a side of the French Riviera that’s just as enchanting as its summer splendor, if not more so.