The 11th of May marks the beginning of this year's Cannes Film Festival.

"Cannes is the international capital of motion picture arts. Every year, the Festival International du Film is a major crossroads for the film industry. A total of over 30,000 cinema professionals, including distributors, producers, directors, actors, technicians and the media, and over 200,000 people, meet in Cannes for 900 screenings at the Palais and numerous cinema events. The Festival keeps you informed on travel arrangements and available accommodation."

credits: allaroundtheglobe.com

If you are into celebrity sightings, shopping & beach-combing, then this is the perfect time to indulge yourself to a luxury holiday on the French Riviera.

Celebrity sightings are not guaranteed, unless you have connections in the Film industry or unless you brave the crowds and go to the Palais for a premiere. It is possible, though. For all you know, hanging out at that chic corner Cafe or leaving your hotel lobby could just be an opportunity to see a star or two.

Shopping on the French Riviera is an experience in itself. Designer stores and quality boutiques abound. Even a stroll along the La Croisette, the palm-lined boardwalk that stretches the length of Cannes' coastline, will lead you to stylish boutiques.

Iles de L�rins, a small archipelago just off the coast of Cannes, is just a few minutes away by boat. I personally recommend you to spend a few hours to take this short trip.

"The island is covered by a lovely forest of Allepo pine and eucalyptus, with wide paths criss-crossing the length and breadth. The port area, where the ferry lands, has caf�s and restaurants, and it's a short walk to the Fort Royal where you can see the now-bare little cell where the Man in the Iron Mask was incarcerated. Ile Saint-Honorat is the smaller, further, island, an additional 15 minutes by boat from the ferry landing of Sainte-Marguerite. Although small, the walks are still nice, and there's the Cisterian abbey to visit, which includes a gift shop of locally produced products."

One warning, though. This upscale mediterranean city calls for extra care when it comes to dressing up. Since you have already indulged yourself to a luxury holiday in the French Riviera, go the extra mile and leave your shorts and sneakers back in the hotel.