Month: August 2023

Summers were made for barbeques but the smoke, smells and potential fire hazards can be annoying, and even dangerous, to those not on the receiving end of that juicy burger. Here’s what the rules are to keep everyone happy and safe.

Who doesn’t love a barbeque, especially in the summer? The warm nights and sun-filled days are just right for al fresco dining and cooking outdoors keeps the house, and the cook, from overheating indoors in a stuffy kitchen.

But there are limits to a good thing and the French government has put out some regulations on BBQ-ing to ensure that everyone is safe and undisturbed.

RULES AS THEY STAND

Whether living in a house or an apartment, there are no legal restrictions on the use of barbeques, so long as the user is respectful and isn’t cooking non-stop for days on end. Whilst the law says its ok to occasionally partake, clauses in the terms of a rental contract, or the rules of copropriétés, may limit how and when BBQs are used.

“Some clauses or decrees only restrict the use of barbecues running on charcoal and not those running on gas or electricity, restrict the use of barbecues on balconies or on terraces, and others limit it to certain time slots,” clarifies the government on their website.

Additionally, during certain times of the year, and in regions where the climate is dry and prone to fires, the departmental Prefect or local mayor may decide to ban BBQ-ing as a matter of fire prevention.

WHAT TO DO IF A NEIGHBOUR CROSSES THE LINE

Excessive use of a barbeque can be deemed an “abnormal neighbourhood disturbance”, defined as nuisances that exceed the normal inconveniences of the neighbourhood. In these cases, residents have the right to protest.

In order to prove the barbequing neighbour is an annoyance, proof is required. Blackened walls, ashes flying all over adjoining properties or live embers scorching lawns, furniture or the like are reasons to file a complaint.

There are also legal criteria which must be met. These include the frequency of the act and its duration as well as the intensity, whether it occurs in the day or night, where it occurs – for example in an urban or rural area, and if the regulations in force permit it.

The government suggests the first step is to have a friendly chat with the neighbour and alert them to the inconveniences. If this doesn’t produce a satisfactory solution, send a formal notice by registered mail to move the barbecue or limit its use.

If this still doesn’t work, call the trustee of the copropriété or town hall and get them to alert the offender that they are out of compliance with rules. The last resort, which is time-consuming and costly, is to go to court, but this cannot even be considered until the previous steps have been tried and have failed.

At the end of the day, just having common courtesy will avoid these kinds of situations. Maybe just offering the neighbour a burger straight off the grill will keep the mood light and tempers cooled!

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Photo Vincent Keiman on Unsplash

The annual Perseid meteor showers are back throughout the month of August, with the 13^th being a particularly good night to catch them in the skies above Monaco and France.

Look up, everyone! The August night sky is filled with wonders, notably from the spectacular return of the Perseid meteor showers, which light up the heavens over France until 24^th August.

This shooting star show will best be seen on the night of 13^th August from midnight onwards when an estimated one meteor per minute will be visible to the naked eye. This year’s event will be more dramatic than last year, when a Super Moon vied for the showers’ attention and dimmed viewing.

WHERE TO LOOK

Clear nights will aide in being able to see the showers, which are best seen when looking toward the northeast and the Perseus constellation. The bottom of the “W” formed by the constellation Cassiopeia is where the shooting stars originate from, and emanate from the tail of the Swift-Tuttle comet… which takes 133 years to circle the sun.

HOW BEST TO SEE

Minimising the amount of light pollution helps when looking for the Perseid showers. This means heading out to the countryside, a nearby park, the beach or even just turning your back to streetlamps if heading out of town is not possible. People’s eyes need at least 15 minutes to adjust to the dark to catch the fainter meteors so avoid looking at any light source, including phones, during this time. Finally, don’t forget to make a wish, or wishes…may they all come true!

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Photo credit: Vuncentiu Solomon on Unsplash

Let’s face it, we’ve all been there, the moment when a snack magically appears and our willpower wavers. For those on a strict diet, it can be a real killer, derailing progress and leaving us feeling defeated. But here’s the good news: snacks don’t have to be the enemy.

When well-planned and chosen wisely, they can actually be a delightful addition to your daily diet, packed with both pleasure and healthiness to keep you energised throughout the day.

So, get ready to discover the perfect snack mix that will nourish your body, satiate your cravings, and help you stay on track to achieve your goals.

REFRESHING FRUITS

When it comes to satisfying and nutritious snacks, seasonal fruits take the crown. Bursting with flavour and brimming with essential nutrients, these nature’s delights are a guilt-free pleasure that keeps us refreshed throughout the summer.

Whether you’re enjoying a sun-soaked day at the beach or hustling through busy errands, these hydrating wonders are always at your fingertips. Think of succulent watermelon, sweet strawberries, juicy oranges and tangy pineapple. Not only are they low in calories, but they also offer a bounty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, K, manganese, or fibres.

Grab a handful of these colourful delights, and you’ll find yourself invigorated and ready to take on any adventure that comes your way. But remember, it’s important not to overindulge in fruits to maintain a balanced diet as they contain a lot of sugar (even if it’s natural sugar). Moderation is key to enjoying the best of what these delicious, nutritious treats have to offer.

VEGETABLE DIPS

Enter the unbeatable duo of vegetable sticks and dips. Colourful and crunchy veggie sticks, like carrot batons, bell pepper strips, and cucumber slices, team up with creamy, flavour-packed dips to create a snack that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or having a picnic in the park, this combo is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling fresh and energised. Plus, the fibre content in the vegetables will keep hunger at bay between your meals.

Dip options are endless, from classic hummus to zesty tzatziki, or even a creamy avocado-based dip. Not only do these veggie sticks provide essential vitamins and fibre, but the dips also add healthy fats and protein to keep you full and fuelled. So, grab your veggie sticks, dunk them into your favourite dip, and savour the goodness of this summer snack sensation.

SUMMER DRINKS

When it comes to quenching your thirst in a healthier way than sugary sodas, there’s a whole world of delightful and nourishing options to explore. Step away from those fizzy drinks and dive into the goodness of fresh smoothies and flavourful juices.

Blend up a tropical fruit smoothie with a mix of mangoes, pineapples, and bananas for a taste of paradise. If you prefer a green boost, try a refreshing spinach and cucumber smoothie with a splash of zesty lemon. Craving something more hydrating? Opt for a naturally sweet watermelon or cucumber-mint cooler.

The best part? These beverages are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a tasty and nutritious choice that your body will thank you for. So, swap out those sodas and sip on these revitalizing drinks that’ll keep you refreshed and feeling fantastic all summer long.

DAIRY DELIGHT

Indulge in the goodness of dairy treats that offer a burst of essential nutrients, perfect for any time of the day. Dive into a creamy pot of Greek yogurt adorned with mixed berries, delivering a protein-packed and antioxidant-rich delight that satisfies your cravings.

You could also elevate your snacking with a cottage cheese bowl topped with sliced cucumber and cherry tomatoes, a delightful source of protein and vitamins. These dairy snacks effortlessly infuse your moments with nourishment, keeping you energised and resilient.

REMEMBER THESE TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT NOURISHING BITE

In the delightful world of summer snacking, vibrant choices nourish and invigorate. From refreshing fruits to veggie sticks with tempting dips, and revitalising drinks to creamy dairy delights, each bite and sip adds vitality to your days. Embrace these options as allies on your wellness journey, satisfying both taste and nourishment.

Tristan Boetti is a sports nutritionist. Through his company Performance & Bien-Être Monaco, he works with professional athletes as well as recreationally active individuals to help them achieve their goals through customised nutrition plans and expert advice.

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Main photo source: Unsplash 

La Pérouse Hotel in Nice has reopened after a total renovation that blends the old and the new, and the result is spectacular. Here’s everything you need to know.

In May 2023, La Pérouse reopened its doors after a total makeover. Whilst this may imply a complete modernisation, that is only a part of the story of this lovely boutique address, which has been hosting the rich and famous, such as author James Joyce who started writing Finnegan’s Wake at the hotel in 1923, for over a century.  

TRANQUILITY CENTRAL 

The project was managed by Friedmann and Versace Studio, and was the first hotel the designers have tackled.  

“La Pérouse is a magical place,” say Virginie Friedmann and Delphine Versace, the duo behind the studio. “We couldn’t imagine a better opportunity for our first venture into hotel design. This place has every possible advantage: incredible views, an ideal location and plenty of surprises.” 

It’s just minutes from Nice’s Old Town and the flower market on Cours Saleya, the hotel features terraces cut into the side of Castle Hill, a rooftop solarium, a glorious citrus garden, a pool carved out of rock and the most incredible views around.  

But the most astounding thing is the peace and quiet. Despite being a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle below, La Pérouse is an oasis of calm.  

A ROOM WITH A VIEW 

Nearly all of the 53 rooms in the hotel have sea views and outdoor lounging areas where guests can gaze down at the world going by whilst sipping a cool drink.  

The décor is elegant and tasteful with an Art Deco feel that isn’t old-fashioned in the least. The soft curves of the furniture are joined by a neutral palette yet punctuated by warm colour pops and some rather funky touches, such as a plastered fireplace that looks like something straight out of Dr Seuss.  

Terre mêlée ceramic tiles from Italy, moulded daub wall lights, coral lamps sourced in Palermo and exquisitely wrought banisters are just a few specific touches the team brought to the space.  

“For the La Pérouse project, [they] went into every detail, selecting objects and materials with equal precision,” says the hotel management. “Most were either bespoke or found on hunts through local galleries. Under [Friedmann and Versace’s] direction, at least 10 artisans and artists took part in creating a décor that is entirely unique.” 

THERE’S A RESTAURANT TOO 

The hillside restaurant, Le Patio, has been an open secret amongst Niçois for decades and is an ideal spot for a romantic meal. The terrace is dotted with lemon tress, which offer shade and a bit of privacy, but it’s the food that keeps people coming back.  

Chef Damien Andrews, who has been a member of the Association of Escoffier Disciples since 2022, “cooks from the heart”.  His skills were honed under his mentor, Chef Patrick Raingeard, who received Michelin stars at Monaco’s Port Palace and at Cap Estel. 

The cuisine is simple and employs plentiful local ingredients, allowing the food’s flavours to speak for themselves without heaviness.  

“My aim is to show off these products via a sharing menu that uses well-honed techniques to bring out the most refined expression of their essential flavours,” he says.  

His signature dishes include: a 1.5kg tomahawk steak accompanied by a homemade Béarnaise sauce; slow-cooked monkfish with violet artichokes and Niçoise olives; sea bream with raspberries and ginger; and, for dessert, an espuma au yahourt with red fruits.  

Click on the images below to see more…

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Featured photo source: Hôtel La Pérouse