First summer on the Côte d’Azur? Or returning after a long absence? In July and August, holidaymakers might be surprised by temperatures hovering around or exceeding 30 degrees. Here are our expert tips for making the most of the hot summer days on the Azure Coast.
Your Best Friend: Water
Always carry a water bottle with you, preferably an insulated one (and not plastic) for yourself and your family. Don’t hesitate to hydrate frequently and generously throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink, and ensure your children drink as well. Choose water, even tap water, over syrups and sodas that don’t quench thirst and add unnecessary sugars. A well-hydrated body and brain handle high temperatures much better and stay fully active at all times.
Adjust Your Schedule
Why not live on Spanish time? Remember, our European hours are two hours ahead of the sun. In other words, at one o’clock, it’s only eleven o’clock solar time. Take advantage of the cooler morning hours, have lunch a bit later than usual, and adopt a good habit: a nap in the shade, in a cool place. It’s not wasted time, far from it! You’ll wake up refreshed, eager to return to the beach and the cool streets of southern towns.
Go Heavy on the 50
Whether you have fair or dark skin, it’s likely you’ll end up with a lovely golden tan during your stay. But if you want to preserve it for a long time, be sure to use a high-SPF sunscreen (at least 50). Apply it from head to toe at the beach, reapply after each swim, and at least every two hours. For children, there are special, highly protective, waterproof creams. Their delicate skin should not be taken lightly!
Summer Diet
It’s easy to see why Niçoise cuisine is based on delicious salads, tasty grilled fish, and plenty of vegetables and fruits. This Mediterranean diet is very suitable for the climate, being light and easy to digest. Long live melons and grilled sea bass! Avoid creamy cakes, and opt for local sorbets instead, which is perfect since Nice and its surroundings are famous for their ice cream. New flavors will do your body good, combining usefulness with pleasure!
Shutters, Your Comfort Allies
Shutters, whether solid or louvered, have always been a cooling aid in Mediterranean homes. Close them in the morning as soon as the sun rises, and open them in the evening when the heat subsides. Their slats provide a pleasant semi-darkness in the house, which is refreshing. If your house (or apartment) has rolling shutters, use the same technique: lower them, preserving some light. In the evening, feel free to open all windows wide to let in the cool night air. Italians, who know a lot about summer heat, do this as well!
Air Conditioning: Use with Moderation
Most villas and apartments in Nice and its surroundings now have air conditioning. It’s an effective solution but a double-edged sword: living in an air-conditioned environment exposes you to abrupt temperature changes, which are not desirable (colds, sore throats) and don’t help your body get used to the heat. Additionally, air conditioning increases the surrounding heat by expelling hot air outside. The French Environment Agency (ADEME) offers good advice: use air conditioning but set it to a moderately lower temperature than outside. For example, if it’s 32°C outside, set it to 25 or 26°C. It’s better for your comfort and the climate!
Enjoy Summer Evenings to the Fullest!
The day’s heat often turns into a delightful coolness in the evening on the Mediterranean coast. A mist forms over the sea, a sea breeze stirs the palms on the Promenade des Anglais, and the temperature gradually drops… It’s the sweet hour when our Italian neighbors begin their “passeggiata,” the end-of-day walk. Take advantage of these enchanting moments to dine with family or friends on the terraces of Nice’s squares, or even picnic on the vast beaches of Nice or Villefranche. You can swim at dusk for a long time. A welcome romantic relaxation after the day’s heat.
As you can see, a summer stay on the French Riviera can be a delightful experience. It’s essential to tame the heat, make it your friend, and have a few tricks and routines to beat it. This way, you can fully enjoy a wonderful holiday on the Azure Coast!
Planning a stay? Visit our site rivieraholidayhomes.com, the specialist in the best holiday rentals around Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer!