Rub shoulders with the stars on a celebrity cruise to Cannes

Thursday, 29, Jul 2010 02:52

If you're looking for a luxury cruise holiday that makes you feel world-famous, where better to visit than star-studded Cannes on the French Riviera?

One of the most popular cities along the Riviera, Cannes was historically a small fishing village. It is now most well-known for its International Film Festival, which draws big names from the movie world to the Mediterranean location to celebrate their achievements.

Why not take a celebrity cruise to the high-class hotspot yourself to spy some stars when the festival takes place? Usually held in May, you might be able to find a good offer if you book a last minute cruise to the destination.

Rub shoulders with famous names as you explore the city in depth and take in the beautiful scenery along the waterfront La Croisette, which is lined with palm trees. If you venture through the old town you'll discover fantastic views of La Croisette as well as some stunning buildings, such as the fortified tower and Chapel of St Anne, in which the Musee de la Castre is housed. The museum consists of artefacts from across the Mediterranean and indigenous art from Africa, Asia, America and Oceania.

In the 12th century chapel you'll discover a collection of musical instruments from across the globe and stairs up the tower to some fantastic views of Cannes.

For some more sightseeing, make your way over to the largest of the Lerins Islands - Ile Sainte-Marguerite, half a mile from Cannes. The site is famous for its Fort Royal Prison, in which the Man in the Iron Mask - as referred to by Voltaire in his work Siecle de Louis XIV - was supposedly held in the 17th century.

Hop over to neighbouring St Honorat to see the Cistercian monks - the only inhabitants of the island - go about their daily business of prayer and wine-making, and take in the church and remains of the 11th century monastery.

If you're visiting Cannes for a cruise holiday when the film festival is taking place, you might want to position yourself near to the red carpet to see your filmstar heroes and heroines in the flesh and take some snapshots to remind yourself of your celebrity cruise when you return home. Join stars such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt for the ten-day event in the international village and find out what gives Cannes its star quality.