Christian Plumail explains why he doesn’t want to open another restaurant, why he is just as important as a carpenter, and why anyone can cook Michelin star food.Read more

Rabbit with Sanguin Mushrooms and a Mille Feuille of Pumpkin and PotatoRead more

As The Riviera Times went to press at the end of 2011 for the January 2012 edition, the French Senate were still considering the proposals for reinforcing consumer protection in the housing market drawn up by Frédéric Lefebvre, the junior minister concerned. The proposals had already received a majority vote in favour in October by the French National Assembly. After the Senate, the proposals, which are likely to contain some amendments, go back to the National Assembly for a final vote, following the usual parliamentary law-making process.Read more

Next stop on our seaside journey towards Italy is Beaulieu-sur-Mer, with its beautiful Belle Epoque buildings. The property market divides into four sectors: firstly the centre-ville; then, to the east and on the other side of the port is La Petite Afrique where you will find waterside villas at eye-watering prices; the Casino sector of town is third and home to one of the finest Belle Epoque buildings in the area - Le Bristol; and finally you'll need a lucky streak at the former if you are to afford a villa in the residential area known as Edouard VII, named after the eponymous boulevard running north to the Moyenne Corniche.Read more