Phê Vé
May 14, 2026 • 3 min read
Experience the first 48 hours at the Cannes Film Festival from the vantage point of the iconic Carlton Hotel, where the excitement is palpable in the lead-up to the festival.
The Cannes Film Festival: A Grand Beginning
The Cannes Film Festival first took place in 1946, and on the 79th day of this event, the skies finally cleared. Sunshine poured down on La Croisette, the palm-lined promenade of the southern French town. Along this walkway, luxurious hotels like the Carlton Cannes stand tall, eagerly awaiting the arrival of top movie stars. I came here to join the two-week festival in May, quickly finding a front-row seat… not for a film screening, but to observe the lively activities within the hotel.
Carlton Hotel: A Storehouse of Film Festival Memories
Upon arriving at the Carlton Cannes, the festive atmosphere was already palpable. Staff were meticulously attending to every detail of the Belle Époque architecture, while inside the main lobby, fresh flowers and champagne were being served. Throughout the event, no guest is ordinary; everyone is connected to the film industry. A-list artists don’t wait in line; they book rooms under pseudonyms and swiftly disappear into elevators. The hotel chefs are on standby to cater to their highest demands, from gourmet meals to favorite beauty products.
Vibrant Monday Scenes
By Monday afternoon, as the voices of journalists filled the air, the hotel buzzed with excitement. I was invited by the hotel to experience the festival atmosphere like a true star. I had the chance to participate in a makeup session in a suite with Emmett J. Scanlan from the film "Mobland," where we admired the beauty of the city from above.
Tuesday Night Scenes: The Buzz Before the Big Event
Hours before the opening ceremony, the hotel was livelier than ever. Guests ranging from Hollywood stars to studio executives flocked in, with the hotel operating as a command center. Everything had to run on time; any delays could impact the red carpet event. To manage all activities, separate WhatsApp groups were created for each guest to ensure everyone was aware of their schedule.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
If you're attending the Cannes Film Festival, it’s important to prepare in advance. To participate in these events, you will need a Schengen visa if traveling from Vietnam. One-way airfare from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Nice ranges from 15 to 25 million VND, depending on when you book. If you want to explore Cannes and soak in the festival atmosphere, it’s best to book your hotel a few months in advance to secure good rates and avoid fully booked accommodations.
Travel Tips for Visiting Cannes
When visiting Cannes, take time to explore the beautiful beaches in the area, such as Plage de la Bocca. Additionally, don’t miss famous landmarks like the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, where the festival takes place. The peak season for events like the film festival is in May, when the city comes alive. Don’t forget to prepare for local transportation; taxis and public buses can be convenient options.
I hope this information helps you on your journey to Cannes. Don’t miss the chance to experience the vibrant film festival atmosphere here!
This article was referenced and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler
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