Nice vs. Rio: The Battle of the Beaches

Yes, it’s your working boy here with the view from my latest Airbnb.

Vanity point: I look like I've got more chins than a Hong Kong telephone directory but that's actually fluid in my lymph glands from the radiation. I've lost 20kg and cannot begin to tell you how miffed I am that my head still looks like an upturned bucket. 

ANYWAY small price to pay to be free of the big C.

I'm super grateful to have survived and be back in the glorious Côte d'Azur. All set for Cannes Lions next week, but I never go down there without a few days catching up with friends in a city that’s all about sun, sea, and sophistication: Nice. Now as I spent most of last year in another sexy seaside spot, think of this as a tale of two cities – Nice vs. Rio. Both are stunning, both are iconic, but there’s something about Nice that has my heart doing the cancan.

First off I’m biased, my mother is from Bordeaux. Stepping off the plane means my frog DNA kicks in and I’m especially susceptible to that French Riviera charm. Nice is rather like that effortlessly chic friend who always looks amazing, even in a basic white tee. Soon as I hear 'bonjour Monsieur Paul' from the black limo driver my brain just floods with serotonin. From the Promenade des Anglais with its palm trees and azure waters to the pastel-colored buildings of Old Town, Nice exudes a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ that makes me feel instantly cooler just by being there. Not quite St Tropez levels, that’s in a couple of weeks so stay tuned.

Nice vs. Rio: The Beaches

- Nice: The beaches in Nice are pebbly, which means no sand in your shorts (a win in my book). Plus, the water is this mesmerizing shade of blue that you’d swear was Photoshopped. Perfect for a laid-back swim or just lounging with a glass of Orangina.

- Rio: Don’t get me wrong, Ipanema and Copacabana are legendary. Sand as soft as sugar, and the drinks? Top-notch. But the crowds can be intense, and let's just say you might end up with more than just a tan (cue the impromptu volleyball games).

Food: A Gastronomic Delight

Sadly my taste buds aren’t back so I’m more than a tad grinched off that I can’t dive in with the abandon. French food beats all takers in my book. And Nice is a glutton’s paradise. The markets overflow with fresh produce, meats, salamis, cheese, and seafood. It's cold cut Valhalla. Dive into the ‘socca’ (chickpea pancake) or a classic Niçoise salad, and you’re basically in culinary heaven.

Nice vs. Rio: The Cuisine

- Nice: French cuisine meets Mediterranean flavours. It’s all about finesse. A leisurely dinner at a bistro with a view of the sunset? Oui, s’il vous plaît!

- Rio: Brazilian food is a carnival of flavors – think churrasco (BBQ) and feijoada (bean stew). Delicious, but maybe a bit heavy if you’re planning to hit the beach right after. 

Culture and Chic

Nice has this laid-back yet sophisticated vibe. Art is everywhere – from the Matisse Museum, deco architecture to the quirky galleries in the Old Town. The annual Nice Jazz Festival? Pure magic.

Nice vs. Rio: The Vibe

- Nice: It’s like sipping champagne while watching the world go by. Elegant, serene, and rather posh.

- Rio: Rio is all about energy and rhythm. Samba beats, street parties, and an infectious spirit. It’s electric, vibrant, and always ready to party. It’s kinda like spring break compared to a luxury naughty weekend.

 A Toast to Nice

While Rio is the life of the party, Nice is the charming dinner guest who leaves you utterly enchanted (and all your silverware where it should be). Both cities have their unique allure, but for now, my heart belongs to the Riviera’s gem.

So here’s to Nice – for its beauty, its flavour, and its undeniable charm. Until next week, stay fabulous, and may your adventures be filled with summer sunshine and good times.

À bientôt!

Paulie

P.S. Whether you're team Nice or team Rio, remember, life's too short for bad coffee and boring destinations. Enjoy your summer and let me handle those pitches for you

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