South African media personality and fashion enthusiast Kim Jayde has returned from the prestigious Cannes International Festival of Creativity.
She has returned with some fresh insider’s guide for South Africans keen to explore the allure of the French Riviera.
KIM JAYDE AND THE LOVE FOR CANNES
Partnering with Air France, she shares her top tips to make your trip to Cannes unforgettable.
Kim praises Air France as the perfect start to any French adventure. “The moment you step onto an Air France flight, you experience French hospitality and culture,” she says.
Every Business Class passenger is welcomed with a glass of champagne, and even economy passengers are treated to champagne served on board.
“It’s a luxurious touch that sets the tone for the journey,” explains Kim. Onboard, she enjoyed classic French documentaries alongside fine red wine and steak, adding to the authentic experience.
KIM JAYDE’S RECOMMENDATIONS
For accommodation, Kim recommends venturing just 15 minutes outside Cannes to the charming town of Antibes, according to Urban Lifestyle SA.
“It offers beautiful, more affordable options like two-bedroom Airbnbs,” she says. This option is perfect for travellers on a budget wanting to mingle with the C-suite elite visiting Cannes.
Given that €1 roughly converts to about R 20, she notes that a train ticket from Antibes to Cannes costs approximately R 140. This is compared to Uber rides ranging between R 520 and R 980.
“Europe’s trains are efficient, clean, and air-conditioned, making them a smart choice to navigate,” she advises.
CANNES SPOTS FOR FOOD LOVERS
Food lovers should not miss the local boulangeries. “Carry cash for the family-owned bakeries where fresh bread, cheese and cold meats are perfected by the French,” Kim says.
She highlights Banana Blue, a quaint restaurant hidden from the main beach strip, famous for its fresh pizza and pasta. “The French know how to enjoy life, no stress, no rush,” she adds.
Beach days in Cannes are a must, with La Plage’s Mediterranean waters warming to a pleasant 23°C in summer.
Kim suggests visiting the beach around 4 pm when it’s cooler, then enjoying sundowners and dinner at nearby cafés as the sun sets as late as 9 pm.
CONNECTING WITH LOCALS
When packing, Kim encourages lightweight, breathable fabrics. “Leave your suits and jeans behind. Think cool linens, cotton shirts, flowy dresses and shorts,” she advises.
On the language front, she stresses the importance of polite French greetings.
“Try to greet people in French, and they appreciate the effort,” she says, noting many locals will respond with a smile and helpfully switch to English or suggest Google Translate.
A MAGICAL DESTINATION
Reflecting on her trip, Kim jokes, “This was my first visit to France, and I fell in love with Cannes. From the food and energy to the safety and the lack of load-shedding or water cuts!”
She has already marked her calendar for a 2026 return. Kim concludes, “Cannes is a magical destination, definitely add it to your bucket list.”
For bookings and more information, South Africans can visit the Air France website.
WHAT WOULD BE YOUR TOP PRIORITY WHEN TRAVELLING TO CANNES – FOOD, BEACH, OR SHOPPING?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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