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Globe and Mail
10 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
France made smoking sexy. Now it's banning the habit in public spaces
The country that made smoking look glamorous, sexy and cool is now going further than most in trying to stamp out the habit. As of July 1, France will ban smoking in nearly all public spaces, including parks, beaches, public gardens and bus stops. Violations carry a fine of as much as €135, or $212, and just about the only exceptions are France's iconic café terraces and electronic cigarettes. It's all part of a move by the country's Health Ministry to address second-hand smoke anywhere near children. 'Tobacco is poison: it kills, it costs money, it pollutes. And above all, it targets our young people,' Health Minister Catherine Vautrin said in a statement last month as she announced the new restrictions. She added: 'Our goal is clear: a generation without tobacco. And we have the means to achieve it.' Polls show the ban has widespread support, and the number of people who smoke in France has fallen to historic lows – less than 25 per cent of adults light up. Blowing smoke: Big Tobacco is getting a whole new generation hooked on nicotine But for some it's still hard to imagine France going smokeless after decades of romanticizing cigarettes in film, fashion and culture. The image of smokey Parisian cafés filled with stylish people chatting over cigarettes has been ingrained in our consciousness. And who can forget Brigitte Bardot or Catherine Deneuve lounging seductively in countless films, a cigarette dangling from their lips? Or fashion icon Coco Chanel, who reportedly smoked 50 cigarettes a day? 'The ban won't work,' said Giovanni Vannomi as he took a drag on a cigarette last week during a break from his job as a tour guide at the Louvre. 'If they try to enforce it, they are going to start another revolution here.' Over in the Tuileries Garden, Laila Alem sat on a patch of grass with three friends, each of them enjoying the warm spring evening and a newly lit cigarette. She too was dead set against the restriction. 'I understand if it's for the children and near schools. But here, there is a big space. I don't understand why the ban is everywhere, like all the parks and not only near the children's area,' Ms. Alem said, thrusting her cigarette forward to make a point. Sitting across from her, James Balde waved off her concerns and said the ban made sense and might even force him to stop smoking. 'It's a good idea,' he said. 'On July 1, I will quit smoking.' But he was not convinced that many French smokers will comply. 'If you come back on July 2 or July 10, or even next year, people will be smoking here. If you don't have a policeman or security, they won't stop.' Next to him, Catherine Guyot had a more cynical assessment of the motivation behind the ban. 'The government just needs money, that's why,' she said, referring to the fines. She also doubted that any of them would stop smoking. 'We all smoke a lot,' she said. Across from the garden, Anthony Fontaine was far more upbeat about the measure. 'I don't think it's a bad idea,' he said as he enjoyed a cigarette while sitting on a bench outside the Louvre. 'It's going to be complicated to make it effective, especially for the French. But other than that, it's pretty positive, just to keep parks clean from those who don't really dispose of their cigarettes where they should.' France isn't the only European country taking a tougher line on smoking. Spain is close to adopting regulations to ban both smoking and vaping from school playgrounds, university campuses, bus shelters, outdoor entertainment venues and terraces. The Italian city of Milan has extended its already strict outdoor ban to include streets and crowded public areas. And the British Parliament is expected to approve legislation soon that the government says will create the first smoke-free generation by making it illegal for anyone 15 or younger to ever buy cigarettes. Not surprisingly, the tobacco industry has pushed back. Cigarette makers argue sweeping prohibitions are ineffective and say it's not clear that smoking in parks or on beaches poses a major health risk to non-smokers. Smokers visiting France this summer won't be immune from the ban or the fine, and many may find the restrictions something of a shock. Margarita Pidrasa, who was visiting Paris from Santiago, last week, was incredulous when told that she and her husband, Alberto Labbe, would soon be unable to smoke in the square outside the Louvre. 'Where are the signs that say this?' she asked as she looked around the giant space. They both agreed with the government's desire to protect children, but felt tourists should be better informed about the penalty. Even if there were a 'No Smoking' sign around, Mr. Labbe said, he probably would still fire up an illicit smoke in the park or on the beach. 'No, I will keep smoking,' he said with a smile as he finished off a cigarette while standing under a shady tree. Then he dropped the butt in the dirt, ground it with his foot and headed off with his wife to rejoin their tour group.
Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Times
Marbella Club hotel review: luxe oasis on the Andalusian coast
Spain's sun-drenched Costa del Sol is famed for its ritzy resorts and golden beaches, and nestled along its exclusive Golden Mile lies the glamorous Marbella Club. Founded in 1954 by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe-Langenburg, this formerly humble finca quickly evolved into the jet-set playground of Europe's elite (the hotel's star-studded guest book includes the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Cary Grant), becoming synonymous with Marbella's glitzy reputation. Today, the hotel continues to be the stuff of legend, exuding old-world charm within its storied walls. Its lush gardens and world-class amenities are continually evolving, and with seamless service to match, Marbella Club remains a go-to, uber-chic base for experiencing the glamour of the Andalusian coast. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue Score 8/10Mirroring the layout of a typical Andalusian village, the hotel's 115 bedrooms are scattered across the estate rather than nestled within a single section, with meandering pathways leading to whitewashed villas framed by bougainvillea and trickling fountains. Natural fabrics, rattan and terracotta form the foundations, with crisp, neutral interiors offset by pistachio-toned prints. There's plenty of space to sprawl out and rooms are kitted out with all the usual mod cons: expect foliage-covered balconies for lolling on, and complimentary minibars restocked with caviar-flavoured crisps and artisan chocolates each day. Spacious bathrooms are draped in gold-hued marble, with separate bathtubs and walk-in showers. Despite the elegant interiors throughout the hotel (think bold patterns and colourful strokes in the main clubhouse), there's a distinctly homely feel, with the lobby outfitted like Prince Alfonso's own living room — all set against a backdrop of towering cypress trees, tropical flora, and majestic La Concha mountain. Score 9/10There's zero possibility of going hungry here, with eight bars and restaurants. Subtly inspired by Prince Alfonso's travels around the globe, each reflects a different chapter from his explorations: tuck into farm-to-table, Californian-style fare at El Patio (curl up underneath ivy-framed cloisters and mop up silky baba ganoush and wood-fired meats) or nibble fish tacos and guacamole (smashed tableside for you) at the Beach Club, the Mexican-inspired poolside restaurant. There's nutritious, nourishing salads by the garden pool at El Olivar; freshly-fished seafood at the beachside chiringuito; and elegant suppers at the Grill — all followed by live music and cocktails at the fabulously kitsch Rudi's bar. At breakfast, recount the previous evening's antics over a generous buffet of pastries, charcuterie, and fresh fruit. • The best of Marbella• Best places to visit in Spain Score 10/10There are outdoor pools to lounge by, and a private beach club perched right by the hotel's pier. Unwind further at the spa and beauty studio, where pampering treatments take centre stage (think scalp massages and cryotherapy facials). There's plenty for active types too: the wellness centre runs complimentary yoga, meditation and fitness classes, and for seriously working up a sweat, there's tennis, horse riding, golf, and padel. Multi-generational families flock here every summer, thanks in part to the extensive kids club, which offers everything from gazpacho-making to gardening. For retail therapy, browse the hotel's clutch of in-house designer stores (from Loewe to Louis Vuitton) and two boutiques. The hotel also opened Finca Ana Maria in May 2025, a plot of land that sprawls next door to the original estate, with rambling kitchen gardens to explore ( 300 types of fruits and vegetables grown on-site), event spaces and saunas, cold plunge pools and a huge yoga pavilion dangling along the coastline. Score 8/10Placed along Andalusia's Golden Mile, Marbella is the glittering jewel of Costa del Sol. This curve of the coast is buzzing with beach clubs and bougie restaurants (there's even a Nobu), and a traipse through the Old Town will reveal a slew of luxury boutiques. To the west, Puerto Banus beckons with its flashy marina, where monied travellers dock their yachts, and to the east — and the closest airport to fly into — is Malaga. Price room-only doubles from £405Restaurant mains from £27Family-friendly YAccessible N Gina Jackson was a guest of Marbella Club ( • Best all-inclusive hotels in Spain• Spain's best cities for food
National Geographic
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- National Geographic
A Greek revival is underway along the Athenian Riviera
In its late 1960's heyday, there was arguably nowhere on Earth as discreetly glamorous as the Athenian Riviera. A nearly 40-mile stretch of sun-kissed coastline stretching from the port of Piraeus to the southernmost point of Attica at Cape Sounion, the Athenian Riviera has been a popular destination for decades. Celebrities, socialites, and locals seeking a mix of serenity and solitude would come to unwind, basking in the crystalline waters and palm-fringed beaches. Stories of a bikini-clad Brigitte Bardot seen dancing barefoot on a local beach in Glyfada, and the late-night serenades of Frank Sinatra from the terrace of his Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel bungalow only added to the coastline's illustrious appeal. As the region's star power continued to rise throughout the 1970s and 80s, the area eventually earned the nickname the 'Côte d'Azur of Greece.' The Temple of Poseidon sits at the southernmost tip of the Athenian Riviera, and was built to honor the god of the sea. Photograph by Stefano Politi Markovina, Alamy The Athenian Riviera has been drawing luxury-minded travelers for decades. Photograph by Ioannis Mantas, Alamy 'It's long been a destination where authenticity meets sophistication,' says Chrysanthos Panas, an Athens-based author and co-owner of Island Club & Restaurant. 'It's this effortless blend of ancient history and contemporary Mediterranean lifestyle; you can start your day exploring the Acropolis and by afternoon, be swimming in crystal-clear waters or enjoying lunch by the sea.' Development across the region started to slow in the late 1990s and 2000s, and as travelers skipped Athens altogether in favor of neighboring islands like Santorini and Mykonos, the region lost its sheen. However, the Athenian Riviera has had a revival in recent years. 'Over the years, I've witnessed a truly remarkable transformation,' says Panas. 'Today, the Athens Riviera is a vibrant ecosystem—home to fine dining, five-star hotels, exclusive clubs, and thoughtfully curated cultural experience... But beyond the infrastructure, what truly matters is preserving the soul of the place: The light, the sea, and the timeless warmth of Greek hospitality.' (10 historic Greek wonders away from the islands) What to see and do Lake Vouliagmeni's mineral-rich waters are warmed by underground thermal springs. Photograph by Christos the Greek, Alamy The Temple of Poseidon: Dating back to the fifth century B.C.E., the Temple of Poseidon sits at the southernmost tip of the Athenian Riviera. Built to honor the god of the sea, a visit to the temple ruins is well worth the 45-minute scenic drive along the winding coastal road to get there. Lake Vouliagmeni: Open year-round, this gorgeous lake—its mineral-rich waters are warmed by underground thermal springs—is encircled by towering limestone cliffs. The lake requires a ticket to enter, so make sure you book your spot in advance if you can, otherwise plan on arriving early, especially in the summer. Seats in the main area are first come, first served, and there are also cabanas, and a restaurant and bar. Astir Beach: Astir Beach is known for its crystal clear water and high-end amenities. There are plenty of striped chairs and cozy cabanas available for a fee. There's also a high-end marina with multi-million-dollar yachts. Vouliagmeni Beach: One of the region's most popular local beaches, Vouliagmeni Beach is where the locals and in-the-know visitors go. Lounge chairs and straw-covered beach chairs line the beachfront, and there are plenty of beach bars and local eateries to grab a light bite, as well. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: A cultural and architectural treasure, Renzo Piano's Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a mecca of environmental and sustainable stewardship. You can spend a day roaming the beautiful grounds, attend a show, and explore the top-floor lighthouse that boasts some of the best views in town. Island exploration: The Saronic Gulf islands are an easy day trip by ferry from Athens. The most cost-effective way to get there is via a fast ferry from Piraeus where you can pop over to nearby Aegina or the charming island of Poros for lunch and still make it back to Athens in time for dinner. You can also opt to take a day cruise, which makes stops at three local islands and includes lunch. Ferry schedules tend to change daily depending on the weather and the season, so be sure to check the ferry schedule and plan accordingly. Where to eat and drink Taverna 37: There's nothing more romantic than dining seaside by candlelight, which is exactly what you'll find at Taverna 37. This charming restaurant serves some of the best mezze's and locally sourced seafood in town. Barbarossa: One of the buzziest restaurants to see and be seen on the Athenian Riviera right now, Barbarossa has a Mediterranean menu that shines a spotlight on seafood. The lobster and crab linguini and the banoffee pie are not to be missed. Island Club & Restaurant: Beloved by celebrities, socialites, and influencers, Island Club & Restaurant has been the go-to dinner and party spot for more than 30 years. And it hasn't lost its touch. Weekends are a great time to dance to world-known DJ's or enjoy dinner overlooking the craggy coastline. Makris Athens: Michelin-starred Makris Athens is housed in a historical building at the foot of the Parthenon, and is one meal you don't want to miss in Athens. With ingredients sourced from chef Petros Dimas' farm in Corinth, the menu draws heavily on traditional Greek dishes served with an elevated twist inspired by the region. Be sure to book a table on the outside patio for incredible views overlooking the ancient Acropolis. Zaxos Grill: You can't go to Greece and not eat your body weight in spanakopita and souvlaki, and in the heart of Vouliagmeni, Zaxos Grill is open for lunch and dinner and is a requisite spot to do just that. It's no frills, and no reservations, but the portions are generous, the fries are perfectly salted, and the vibes are as laid back and authentic as it gets. Papaioannou Restaurant: As fine dining seafood restaurants go, you can't do much better than Papaioannou Restaurant. Pairing some of the Riviera's best views with local seafood and a curated wine list prominently featuring crisp Greek wines, book your reservation at sunset for a memorable meal you won't soon forget. (How to spend the perfect day in Athens, from historic walks to modern art) Where to shop Ioannou Metaxa Street: The main thoroughfare in the leafy residential neighborhood of Glyfada, Ioannou Metaxa Street is lined with Greek designer boutiques and international brands, charming cafes, and restaurants. Don't be afraid to veer off and explore the side streets where plenty of hidden gems abound. The Naxos Apothecary: A short stroll from Syntagma Square in Athens, The Naxos Apothecary is an experiential boutique and a great place to pick up locally made homeopathic bath and body products and fragrances. The products have made their way into local hotels, including 91 Athens Riviera, but it's worth a visit to the beautifully curated, multi-level store. Where to stay Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens: Nestled along a pine-covered peninsula overlooking the glittering Aegean Sea, Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens has served as the crown jewel of the Athenian Riviera ever since it first opened at the Astir Palace in 1961. Highlights among the eight restaurants and bars include Italian trattoria-style restaurant at Mercato, Michelin-starred Pelagos, and traditional Greek seafood and mezzes at Taverna 37. 91 Athens Riviera: If you're seeking luxury meets summer camp, 91 Athens Riviera opened 28 luxury tents called 'luxents' in 2024. The hotel's on-site restaurant, Barbarossa, is extremely popular, as well. Michelle Gross is a Beaufort, SC-based travel journalist and photographer covering the cross-section of sustainable and ethical travel. Passionate about telling stories about interesting people and places around the world, follow her adventures on Instagram.
Elle
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Elle
8 Kitten Heel And Capri Pant Combinations To Wear On Repeat This Summer
A quick glance around the ELLE UK office or at any fashion girlie worth her salt's TikTok FYP for proof - capri pants paired with cute little kitten heels is the outfit recipe of summer 2025. Like bloomer pants and ballet flats, or mesh shoes and midi skirts before it, capri pants and kitten heels is a style combination so reliable, we are becoming convinced we need more than one iteration of it. FIND OUT MORE ON ELLE COLLECTIVE The capri pant, or pedal pusher, resurgence has been bubbling for a couple of summers now. Inspired by the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Sex And The City's fictional lead Carrie Bradshaw everyone from Alexa Chung and Amy Brewster, ELLE UK's own head of social is trying the trend in 2025. However, the trouble with these three-quarter-length trousers is knowing exactly what shoes to wear them with. Thanks to their cheeky calf-lengths boots, trainers and probably loafers too are off the menu. While they can look cute with ballet flats and generic sandals, it's kitten heeled mules which work the best, thanks to their leg lengthening properties. To take all the guesswork out of getting dressed we've put together eight capri pants and kitten heel combinations for you. You're welcome. If it all feels a little intimidating, your gateway capris should likely be a simple, dare we say chic, black legging style. The more paired-back bottom means you can be a little more daring with your heel choice - channel Sabrina Carpenter with these edgy, pin-up styles. For those ready to graduate to a more challenging look, we've got some denim, gingham, polkadot and even cargo styles. You can decide if you're going to pull it back with some more subdued heels, or go full throttle and clash away. Whatever bottom half combination you opt for, there's one top (pun intended) choice when it comes to deciding what to wear on your upper half: the humble button-down shirt. Our favourite has to be the poplin 'The Boyfriend' shirt from With Nothing Underneath, but if you head down to your local charity shop you're sure to find a cotton men's shirt that will work a treat. ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE. Daisy Murray is the Digital Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, spotlighting emerging designers, sustainable shopping, and celebrity style. Since joining in 2016 as an editorial intern, Daisy has run the gamut of fashion journalism - interviewing Molly Goddard backstage at London Fashion Week, investigating the power of androgynous dressing and celebrating the joys of vintage shopping.
Forbes
04-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Hotel Byblos Brings Glamour Back To St Tropez With New Suites And Starry Nights
Swimming pool ay Hotel Byblos © Alexandre Chaplier It all started with legendary French actress Brigitte Bardot. Wealthy Lebanese businessman Jean-Prosper Gay-Para was so enamored by the movie star that he built a hotel and nightclub in the St Tropez destination Bardot had come to love, hoping to win her affection. Opened in 1967, the Byblos Hotel and its famed nightclub, Les Caves du Roy, quickly became the hottest spot on the French Riviera, and while Bardot didn't succumb to his charm, a magical destination was created. The famed 86 room and suite hotel is now run by Antoine Chevanne, a handsome, tanned Frenchman whose great-grandfather, Sylvain Floirat, acquired the hotel from the billionaire Jean-Prosper Gay-Para. The Byzantine-designed palace inspired by the architecture of a Lebanese port city is perched on the highest hill in St.-Tropez. The pastel-colored stucco buildings surround a courtyard with a modest swimming pool. Art is also a central attraction of the property with highlights including Roger Capron ceramics and a mural of Zeus by Jean Derval. Art fills the spaces, including a stunning yellow-tiled staircase created by Capron. Mick Jagger on his Hotel Byblos balcony, Brigitte Bardot at Les Caves du Roy, Jack Nicholson and Cher at Les Caves du Roy Claude Dronsart / Courtesy of Hotel Byblos Antoine took over the hotel in 2001, marking the fourth generation of his family. 'I was the first of the family to be in charge of the hotel, although I originally wanted to be a fighter pilot in the Navy,' he says. 'When I was 28 years old, I took over the job. I attended Cornell University for summer sessions focused on the hospitality industry, including operations and the development process. And then, I trained in Paris and started from the lowest level. After a year of experience, I became the assistant of the General Manager.' Laura Gonzalez designed suite Stephan Julliard Laura Gonzalez designed Deluxe Suite 330 Stephan Julliard Through the years, he has received numerous offers from famous brands to take over the hotel, but he remains defiant, never to lose control of the family legacy. 'There is no way because I have a 10-year-old daughter, and she will eventually run the hotel. I will also never franchise the brand. It's a good way for me to earn a lot of money, but also a way to lose your image.' He does however plan to expand the brand into the U.S. market with possible locations in Dallas and Miami. Antoine now spends most of his time in Paris, where his company, Groupe Floirat, has grown to three properties, including La Réserve in St Jean De Luz and Les Manoirs De Tourgeville in Normandy. Byblos Beach Restaurant Hotel Byblos After long days of sunbathing on Pampelonne Beach, the place to be seen in the 70s was the hotel's after-hours nightclub, Les Caves du Roy, filled nightly with celebrities like Cher, Elton John, and Liza Minnelli. Even Mick Jagger honeymooned at the hotel in the suite I stayed in. Nowadays, Byblos is no longer just a nightclub; it is a tranquil boutique hotel that offers a relaxing escape from the nearby shopping village's bustle. This season, the hotel introduced a brand-new rooftop Sky Bar with stunning bay views, the B Lounge Pool Bar, a new gourmet Italian restaurant, Il Giardino, led by executive chef Nicola Canuti featuring a large array of seafood pastas, and soon, the acclaimed Zuma will take residency at the hotel, offering a contemporary outdoor Izakaya experience. The family-friendly Byblos Beach Ramatuelle also provides fine dining seaside with plush loungers. Hotel Byblos new rooftop Sky Bar Hotel Byblos Making its debut to the hotel are four colorful new suites by Parisian designer Laura Gonzalez, all designed to resemble a family home. Inspired by the spirit of Saint Tropez, the suites blend bold colors, patterns, and textures, and an additional 10 suites will be opened next year. Hotel Byblos continues to grow with refreshing new changes under Chevanne's leadership, with hopes of continuing the family legacy as an exclusive hideaway where new experiences are born. St Tropez
