Why I no longer need holidays

For many, holidays are a chance to escape—the routine, the stress, the grey skies. But what if you built a life you didn’t need to escape from? That’s exactly what I’ve found on the French Riviera.

Living here, I wake up to nature and an stunning views, where the light shifts beautifully throughout the day, just as it did for the artists who made this region their muse—Picasso, Matisse, Renoir. The air carries the scent of thyme, savory, eucalyptus, or olive trees, and, in the right season, the delicate fragrance of the flowers used in perfumery—roses, orange blossom, jasmine, tuberose, and violet—before being processed in Grasse to become the finest perfumes. Instead of longing for distant shores, I find everything I need right here.

The Riviera’s attractivity lies in its unique combination of natural beauty and international allure. From world-renowned events to the charm of local markets brimming with fresh produce and artisanal craft, there’s a constant rhythm of inspiration. The great outdoors of the Esterel offer endless opportunities to explore, whether hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Of course, I love when life or work takes me back to Paris, London, or a place I haven’t visited yet or offers a change of scenery. But the difference is, it is not a need and it is not an escape. The elements that people seek in a holiday—relaxation, stimulation, beauty—are woven into daily life.

Perhaps that’s why so many creative souls have been drawn to this coastline over the centuries. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s a place to live, fully and completely. And for me, that means holidays are no longer about escaping—they’re simply about exploring, because I already feel at home in paradise.