Monaco’s Jardin Exotique Blooms Again

 

After years hidden behind scaffolding and safety barriers, one of Monaco’s most beloved landmarks is finally ready to welcome visitors once more. The Jardin Exotique de Monaco will officially reopen on Monday, March 30, ending a long closure for extensive structural repairs and renovations.

The gardens will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., restoring public access to a site that has long been part of Monaco’s cultural identity. A day earlier, on Sunday, March 29, the principality will host a special preview opening reserved for Monegasque citizens and residents, who can enter free of charge with proof of identity or a residence permit.

Clinging dramatically to the cliffs on the western edge of the tiny Mediterranean state of Monaco, the Jardin Exotique is famous for its extraordinary collection of succulents and cacti gathered from arid regions across the world. From its terraces, visitors enjoy sweeping views over the principality and the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean below.

The garden’s history stretches back more than a century. It was officially opened in 1933 under the reign of Prince Louis II of Monaco, after years of work to transform the steep rocky hillside into a botanical showcase. The project was championed by botanist Auguste Chevalier and landscape architect Louis Notari, who helped establish what would become one of the most celebrated succulent gardens in the world.

Over the decades, the garden grew into a living museum of desert flora, housing thousands of species—from towering Mexican cacti to rare African succulents—carefully adapted to thrive on the sun-drenched cliffs above the city.

For residents and visitors alike, the reopening marks the return of a spectacular green refuge above the dense urban skyline—proof that even in the smallest of countries, nature can still take center stage.

France Slashes Global HIV/AIDS Funding — Critics Say It Undermines Years of Leadership

 

France has confirmed it will dramatically reduce its financial contribution to the global fight against HIV/AIDS, a decision that is already drawing fierce criticism from public health organizations and political leaders. The cuts will push France from the world’s second-largest contributor to fifth place, marking a sharp reversal from the leadership role it once claimed in global health efforts.

The French government confirmed that between 2026 and 2028 it plans to contribute €860 million combined to the Global Fund and Unitaid, two of the world’s main organizations financing the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

That figure represents a reduction of more than half of France’s previous commitment. During the last funding cycle from 2023 to 2025, France pledged €1.6 billion to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria alone, plus an additional €255 million to Unitaid.

The decision confirms earlier reports revealed in February and effectively ends hopes that Paris might reverse course ahead of the upcoming One Health Summit, which President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to open in Lyon.

Government cites strained public finances

Officials say the decision is driven by France’s deteriorating public finances.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government is attempting to reduce the national deficit to 5% of GDP by 2026, forcing significant spending cuts across multiple sectors.

“Public finances are currently under considerable pressure,” the ministry said in a statement. Despite the cuts, it insisted that global health remains a priority area of France’s international solidarity policy.

Critics, however, say the numbers tell a different story.

NGOs warn of devastating consequences

Nine HIV/AIDS organizations condemned the move in a joint statement, calling it a dangerous retreat from global health leadership.

“France is abandoning millions of people,” said Camille Spire, president of the French HIV advocacy group AIDES.

“This is the largest reduction among all G7 countries,” added Florence Thune, head of Sidaction. “France is effectively deserting the global fight against pandemics.”

The cuts will have immediate geopolitical implications as well. France’s reduced commitment now places it behind the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, and even behind the philanthropic funding of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which pledged €788 million.

Political backlash in France

The decision is also facing criticism inside France’s parliament.

On February 3, the National Assembly of France unanimously passed a resolution calling on the government to maintain strong financial support in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

The measure, introduced by Socialist MP Arthur Delaporte, passed with all 135 votes in favor, though it is not legally binding.

Delaporte urged the government to reconsider the cuts, warning that France risks abandoning its long-standing international role in global health.

“The government is choosing to follow the same unfortunate path as Donald Trump,” he said.

His comment refers to the recent reduction in U.S. funding for global HIV programs. Since Trump returned to the White House, the United States — historically the world’s largest contributor — has reportedly reduced its global HIV/AIDS funding from $6 billion to $4.6 billion.

From global leader to lagging contributor

Public health experts say the symbolism of France’s decision may be as damaging as the financial impact.

For years, France positioned itself as one of the key champions of global HIV/AIDS programs. That reputation was cemented in 2019 when France hosted a major replenishment conference for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in Lyon.

At the time, President Emmanuel Macron delivered a passionate speech urging world leaders to intensify their efforts.

“The goal of ending the epidemic by 2030 is achievable,” he said then. “But only if we live up to our responsibilities today.”

Many activists now say those words ring hollow.

The 2030 goal slipping out of reach

Advocacy groups warn that the combination of reduced funding from both the United States and France could derail global efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

“Who can still believe the epidemic will end by 2030?” asked the French advocacy group Actions Traitements.

“What once seemed achievable just a few years ago is quickly becoming impossible.”

The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria had hoped to raise $18 billion for its next three-year funding cycle, but current pledges suggest the total may fall below $13 billion — a shortfall that could directly impact treatment, prevention programs, and lifesaving medication in many parts of the world.

For critics, the concern is simple: when major donors pull back, the consequences are measured not just in budgets — but in lives.

The End of an Era at Paloma Beach — But the Story May Not Be Over

 

The French Riviera has lost one of its most beloved seaside institutions. After decades of sun-soaked lunches, celebrity sightings, and languid afternoons beside turquoise water, the iconic beach club at Paloma Beach will not reopen its doors this season.

For generations of locals, yacht owners, and Riviera regulars, the small but magical cove on the eastern side of Saint‑Jean‑Cap‑Ferrat has been synonymous with the golden age of Mediterranean beach life.

But in 2025 the historic restaurant and beach facilities — which had stood since the late 1940s — were demolished as part of a municipal redevelopment project aimed at bringing the site into compliance with France’s strict coastal protection laws.

The plan includes replacing the aging structure with a removable seasonal building, along with environmental improvements along the nearby Sentier du Littoral (Saint‑Hospice coastal path) and stabilization work on the surrounding cliffs. With construction and administrative processes still underway, the beach club is expected to remain closed until at least 2027.

Yet the spirit of Paloma may not be gone for good.

Owners Baptiste, Agathe, and Jean-Claude recently shared a message hinting that their story with the beach is not over. “The spirit of Paloma will continue to exist and to surprise you,” they wrote — a tantalizing suggestion that the beloved institution could eventually return in some new form.

The affection surrounding Paloma Beach is easy to understand.

Tucked into a sheltered Scaletta cove with sweeping views across the bay toward Beaulieu‑sur‑Mer, the beach club built a reputation for effortless Riviera elegance rather than flashy excess. Its striped umbrellas, clear water and relaxed restaurant terrace made it a favourite for long Mediterranean lunches of grilled fish, rosé, and slow afternoons drifting between table and sea.

Over the decades, the guest list read like a who’s who of Riviera history. Visitors reportedly included figures such as Winston Churchill, Elton John, Tom Cruise and Roger Moore — all drawn by the beach’s unique combination of beauty and low-key charm.

More recently, Paloma found a new global audience when it appeared in the hit Netflix series Emily in Paris. Film fans might also recognize the beach from Fifty Shades Darker, where the character Christian Grey — played by Jamie Dornan — famously emerges from the Mediterranean in one of the movie’s Riviera scenes.

But beyond its film cameos and famous guests, what truly made Paloma special was its atmosphere. In a region increasingly defined by mega-yachts and high-energy beach clubs, Paloma managed to preserve something rare: the feeling of a classic Riviera summer day. Families, artists, locals and travelers mingled beneath the pines, slipping into the sea between leisurely meals and long conversations that stretched late into the afternoon.

For now, the restaurant chairs and striped umbrellas may be gone. Yet the cove itself — one of the most beautiful swimming spots on the Riviera — remains open to the public. Visitors can still descend the path, slip into the same crystalline water, and imagine the decades of Riviera summers that unfolded here.

And if the owners’ message is anything to go by, this may not be the final chapter for Paloma Beach — only an intermission.

Beyond the Blue: The Most Beautiful Countryside Escapes from Nice, Cannes & Monaco

 

The Riviera’s glittering coastline may get all the postcards, but just beyond the sea lies a different world — one of stone villages clinging to cliffs, lavender-scented hills, forested plateaus and winding mountain roads that feel a million miles from beach clubs. Whether you live here year-round or you’re visiting and craving a change of scenery, these inland day trips deliver fresh air, culture, and serious Provençal charm.

Here’s where to go when you want to trade the Mediterranean for mountains and medieval lanes.

Hilltop Villages That Feel Like Time Travel

If you’ve ever glanced up from the coast and noticed villages impossibly perched on rocky ridges — this is your sign to go.

Gourdon: Dramatically suspended above the Loup Valley, Gourdon is pure cinematic Provence. Expect panoramic views stretching to the sea, winding medieval streets, and terraced gardens surrounding its château. It’s ideal for a slow wander followed by lunch with a view that makes you forget the Côte d’Azur traffic ever existed.

Tourrettes-sur-Loup: Known as the “Village of Violets,” this pastel-toned beauty is full of artisan workshops, flower-filled balconies, and quiet stone passageways. In spring, the scent of violets drifts through the air — and yes, you can taste them in local sweets and syrups.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A classic for good reason. Art galleries line the centuries-old streets, and the village has long attracted creatives and collectors. Come early or late to avoid peak crowds and linger over a café in one of the most atmospheric settings in southern France.

Vence: Often overlooked in favour of its famous neighbour, Vence feels more lived-in and authentic. Its old town is a joy to wander, and art lovers shouldn’t miss the Chapelle du Rosaire designed by Matisse. It’s the kind of place where a “quick stop” turns into an afternoon.

Biot: Between Nice and Cannes, Biot offers cobbled lanes, artisan glassblowing studios and a relaxed village feel without the heavy foot traffic. It’s a perfect half-day escape if you don’t want to venture too far inland.

Wild Nature & Fresh Mountain Air

When you’re craving space, silence and scenery — head higher.

Parc naturel régional des Préalpes d’Azur: This vast protected park stretches between the Mediterranean and the southern Alps, offering limestone plateaus, deep gorges and panoramic hiking trails. It’s a dream for walkers, cyclists and anyone who wants to swap sea salt for pine and wild thyme.

Saint-Jeannet: Set beneath the dramatic Baou rock formation, Saint-Jeannet is ideal for scenic hikes and sweeping views back toward the coast. It’s peaceful, unpolished, and perfect for a countryside lunch after a morning climb.

Bouyon: Further inland, Bouyon feels distinctly Alpine. Wide open vistas, quiet roads and authentic village life make it a refreshing contrast to Riviera glamour.

Inland Towns with Culture & Character

Grasse: The world’s perfume capital sits among rolling hills scented with jasmine and roses. Visit historic fragrance houses, wander its steep old town, and soak in a more traditional Provençal rhythm of life.

Mougins: Just above Cannes, Mougins pairs art galleries with excellent gastronomy. Its circular hilltop layout offers beautiful countryside views — and more than a few Michelin-starred temptations.

Easy Pairings for a Perfect Day

From Nice: Combine Vence with Tourrettes-sur-Loup, or head toward Gourdon for big valley views.
From Cannes: Start in Mougins or Biot, then push further inland into the Préalpes. From Monaco: Wind up into the hills toward Saint-Jeannet or beyond for a dramatic shift in landscape.

Why Go Inland?

Because the Riviera isn’t just about the sea.

Up here, you’ll find:

• Cooler summer temperatures

• Fewer crowds (especially midweek)

• Authentic village life

• Hiking trails and panoramic lookouts

• Long, unhurried lunches under plane trees

It’s a reminder that behind the yachts and beach clubs lies a region rich in history, craftsmanship, and raw natural beauty.

So next time the coastline feels a little too familiar — turn your back on the water and follow the mountain roads. The real magic of the Côte d’Azur might just be waiting above it.