Nice: Grindr Court Case

Last week, four men suspected of a series of ambushes targeting gay men in Nice in July 2022 were sentenced on September 28, 2023, to up to four years in prison for two of the assailants, and 18 and 15 months for their accomplices.

These prison sentences were heavier than those requested by the public prosecutor, but the criminal court retained only the aggravating circumstance of a meeting, not homophobia.

The accused, aged between 17 and 27 at the time of the attacks, organized their stalking via the gay dating app Grindr. The victims were assaulted in their homes, robbed, and one was even stabbed with a knife. This modus operandi enabled investigators to link the attacks and identify the suspects.

But, as the Centre LGBTQIA+ Côte d'Azur, a civil party in the case, reminds us, more than 80% of victims of LGBT+phobic acts never lodge a complaint, according to figures from the French Ministry of the Interior. This is hardly surprising, however, "if the courts are unable to find the aggravating factor of homophobia in such cases?!" worries the association.

Personally, as someone who before making the move to the Cote d’Azur, had frequently visited the region since 1990, my friends and I do find the region to be extremely safe, especially when compared to cities in our homelands of North America and other countries in Europe and the UK.

I have been out and about at all times of the day or night, any time of year, either on my own or with friends, and have not, fortunately, run into any problems. That’s not to say there aren’t any homophobic a**holes out there, but like anywhere else in the world, it’s best to be aware of your surroundings and actions for your own safety.

What I do see frequently are visitors who arrive (of all sexualities) to the region, who seem to go into a vacation bubble of sorts once off the plane, assuming because they are on holiday, nothing bad will happen to them.

At times it is as though you can see the glazed look on their faces, and this extends to how they act on social media dating apps. I’m the kind of person who is always up for some kind of adventure, but I tend to think a touch more rationally about it all first.

If someone seems too good to be true, my advice is to go with your gut instinct and ask yourself if it is worth it. And consider meeting in a public place first and take it from there.

The French Riviera is an international travel destination that attracts people from around the world. It is a very safe place to live and visit, but like anywhere else is not without its issues so operate as you would where you live and take care of yourself first.

Pride Marseille 2023

 

On Saturday, September 30th, 2023, the LGBTQIA+ community in Marseille celebrates its 30th anniversary of Pride.

This is the opportunity for locals and visitors alike to join together to show support for one another in equal rights, and social justice, and to support victims of discrimination and LGBTIphobia in France.

Fierté Marseille is the organization that takes care of not only all the work involved in planning for Pride every year, but they are also in charge of the future LGBTQIA+ Center being established in Marseille.

This year, the Pride parade will start its route at the Porte d'Aix at 14h where everyone will then make their way through the streets of Marseille celebrating moments of Pride while also peacefully protesting towards Vieux-Port with the final point of gathering to be on the Quai du Port at approximately 17h.

Have a safe and supportive Pride event, everyone!

French Riviera Real Estate Options Fourteen

 

For the month of September, we are focusing on the enchanting and historic areas of both Antibes and Cap d’Antibes.

This part of the Cote d’Azur has always been popular not only with locals but also consistently attracts visitors and people year-round from various parts of the world seeking a place to purchase a primary or holiday home.

Besides the natural beauty of this area, with most everything in close proximity to not only the sea but local amenities including fabulous restaurants, hotels, and museums, this is also a historical place where famous writers such as F. Scott Fitzgerald made his home and where some say the laidback lifestyle pertaining to summer was introduced.

Property designs here range from contemporary to Belle Epoque, in every size and price bracket, with more classic designs to be found around the tip of the Cap d’Antibes peninsula just south of Antibes.

Antibes

2,650,000 EUR

A 5-bedroom contemporary villa on the market in Antibes.

Area: 343m²

10 room(s)

5 bedroom(s)

Land: 1543m²

Come and discover this superb and spacious villa that is 343m² in size, located in a peaceful and highly sought-after area of Antibes.

Just a short walk from the beaches and the local shops and bakeries. Spread over 3 levels, the villa includes 5 bedrooms, each with a shower room or bathroom.

The master bedroom has a bathtub, an Italian shower, and an integrated hammam.

The spacious double living room is located on the main floor and gives access to a terrace overlooking a beautiful garden of more than 1500m ² that is south-west facing complete with a heated salt pool.

You can enjoy the terrace in summer and winter thanks to its outdoor heating system. The property also has a large covered parking area for up to 10 vehicles.

Antibes

5,400,000 EUR

Located in a quiet, privileged area of Antibes, this magnificent Art Deco property is nestled in the heart of a lush garden of over 1800m2, complete with a heated swimming pool and jacuzzi.

Recently renovated with top-of-the-range materials, this villa offers a harmonious and refined design.

The villa of 466 m2 comprises seven bright bedrooms, each with en suite bathrooms, three of which have spacious walk-in closets.

The spacious living room, dining room, and fully-equipped kitchen. What's more, the beautiful terraces offer views of the sea and the surrounding greenery.

In the basement, you'll find a wellness area featuring a sauna, steam room, gym, and games room, allowing you to relax and enjoy yourself in complete tranquillity.

Plus a wine cellar, laundry room, and garage of around 100m² complete this exceptional property.

Cap d’Antibes

10,500,000 EUR

Just a few minutes from the famous Garoupe beach, discover this beautiful waterfront villa with luxurious amenities.

In an exceptional living environment, this single-story villa opens onto a spacious terrace of around 309 m², with an infinity pool and direct access to the sea, inviting you to enjoy special moments to the fullest extent.

Inside, you'll find a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and three elegant bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom and terrace access.

There is also a superb spa with a hammam followed by two showers. Plus, two parking spaces.

Cap d’Antibes

11,500,000 EUR

Elegant property on the seafront which will offer you a most beautiful sunset.

Built on a plot of approximately 2410m², the villa with an area of 395m² offers: an entrance hall, a double reception room opening onto a spacious terrace, the garden and the sea, a welcoming dining room, and a kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 3 dressing rooms, a bathroom, 4 shower rooms, an office, and a summer kitchen.

The villa has air conditioning, double glazing, an intercom system, and an electric gate. Enjoy many days at the swimming pool, entertaining with friends and family. This property is also sold with a garage and several parking spaces.

For more information about these properties or any others, connect with us at Info@experiencethefrenchiviera.com

Monaco Yacht Show 2023

 

Signaling an end to the summer season, the Monaco Yacht Show announces the dates for its 32nd edition, which will take place from September 27th to 30th, 2023.  

 

For those who are obsessed with the yachting industry, this is the place to be to see up close not only an amazing array of luxury yachts in every size and price point available but also the opportunity to network with those in the yachting world showcasing the latest in design, technologies, and decor being used to enhance the yachting experience.

Considered the largest annual gathering of superyachts in the world, the event is a must-attend for private owners, and new clients, along with those who have a deep appreciation for this historic industry while seeking a unique immersive experience in the yachting world. 

Once again this year, the MYS will continue its three-year development program "Seducation," with 2023 marking the consolidation of the first cycle.

The "Seducation" program is an initiative designed in collaboration with the industry and is based on four essential pillars: environmental innovation, design, understanding of yachting, and visitor experience. 

The MYS organizers aim to make the show a true "ecosystem" of yachting, by promoting environmentally responsible innovation and offering visitors an immersive and educational discovery of the latest and most innovative yachting trends.

The ambitious objective of this program is to strengthen MYS's position as the international reference show for the luxury yachting industry while offering an unforgettable experience to yacht and lifestyle enthusiasts.

Since 2021, the MYS has themed its exhibition, notably with the Yacht Design & Innovation Hub, the Sustainability Hub, the Adventure Area, and the Dockside Area, which allows privileged access to the show's docks for visitors interested in a yacht project.

The show will consolidate its first "Seducation" cycle by unveiling an impressive fleet of 120 superyachts and megayachts available on the market, including the highly anticipated 2023 launches. Visitors will also have the opportunity to discover the latest lifestyle trends on board a yacht, thanks to the exhibition of leading yachting companies. The Dockside Area and Adventure Area will also offer a complete immersion into yachting and related activities. 

The MYS will also ensure the participation of driving force companies to present innovative and sustainable solutions in design and sustainability, highlighting eco-responsible technologies while offering an inspiring vision for yacht enthusiasts (Sustainability Hub, Yacht Design & Innovation Hub).

Finally, visitors can attend daytime conferences and receive information dedicated to future yacht clients. They can meet the best experts and most qualified professionals to help them realize their yacht project.

The Monaco Yacht Show strives to promote a unique experience for visitors while enhancing the positive reputation and development of the yachting industry. An industry that has taken on its social responsibility with a proactive and committed approach for several years in economic, technological, and environmental development to meet current societal challenges. 

 

Tickets and Information can be found here MYS2023.