Even though the 73rd Cannes Film Festival was cancelled, the organisers were keenly aware of their immense responsibility to the film industry to provide the Official Selection. Plus, as the head of the festival said in an interview, there are so many wonderful films this year! On 3 June, they released a varied and international list of 56 films with the coveted title: "Sélection Officielle 2020 - Festival de Cannes". 

Today is the day! Phase 2 of our de-confinement begins today, 2 June with further relaxing of travel restrictions and restaurant closures. Across France, restaurants, cafés and bars are reopening, although under strict health and safety requirements. Here, we give an overview of what’s open, where we can travel and what we need to know to stay safe. 

Have you got talent? Join the Nice summer event programme! The City of Nice is launching a call for projects from local associations and artists to propose summer events, from the beginning of July to the end of September, in various public spaces across the city. Now is your chance to propose an idea you've always wanted to see or share your talent as a performer! 

The French health ministry issued a high pollen level warning this week. Across France, pollen levels are high to extremely high. Fortunately, our region is a bit better with medium to high levels. If you or someone you know suffers from seasonal allergies, here is an article from our health writer, Christine Kjeldbjerg, on natural ways to help your body fight the pollen attack.  

**UPDATED!** Just because we’re under quarantine doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy good food and wine - this is France, after all! We’ve gathered a (non-exhaustive) list of local merchants still working and offering either delivery or shipping. Whether you want fresh fruits and vegetables direct from local farms, artisan chocolates or even beer, wine and spirits, we’ve got you covered! So stay home, stay safe and support local business! Check back often, we are constantly updating the list.

We are finally out of confinement, but there are still great local offers, new openings and ways to stay fit without groups. Riviera Press continuously gathers useful links to help you stay informed, stay active, flex your mind and your muscles, listen to good music or just to have fun! We focus on local businesses in the Côte d'Azur but include some others that shouldn't be missed. Looking for information? This is where you'll find it!

The Monaco Grand Prix, which was originally scheduled for Sunday afternoon, was cancelled due to the coronavirus. But that didn't stop Monaco's favourite Formula 1 driver, Charles Leclerc, from racing through the winding streets of the Principality at 240 km/h in a Ferrari. However, Leclerc wasn't at the wheel of his #16 F-1 Ferrari, but rather a brand new, cherry red SF90 Stradale roadster. And he wasn't actually racing anyone...he was starring in a film!

Originally scheduled for this weekend, the 78th Monaco Grand Prix would have seen the Principality swelled with visitors – racing teams, entourages, spectators and tourists alike, all buzzing with excitement. Instead, the small country is in phase two of lockdown, still with its borders under tight control. But it doesn’t mean that the spirit of the race will not be felt! In fact, the track is prepared for one of F1’s fastest drivers to take a spin.