The 2023 International Grand Chapitre & AGM was headquartered in the beautiful city of Nice. We expected many members would wish to participate in the events on the French Riviera and it proved to be the case as all events quickly sold out.

For all involved in the arrangements, it was a delight to see so many participants for the three-day programme which moved between Nice and Cannes. It was quite something that there were more than 30 different nationalities present and at least 26 Baillis Délégués.

The formal meetings and two dinners were held in Nice, whilst in Cannes there was the privilege to dine (in white!) on the beach of the Martinez Hotel - a “never done before” event for the Chaîne.

On Thursday 8th the Musée Chagall hosted the Welcoming Dinner. The evening included a private tour of the Museum, a reception and a dinner among olive trees and works of art. A unique place, where one perceives that time is suspended.

Friday morning saw the meeting of the Conseil Magistral at the host hotel – the Anantara Plaza. For those wishing to learn of Nice’s heritage and culture, there was an organised visit of Vieux Nice.

We have all dreamed of a chic and relaxed evening on a mythical beach, our friend and fellow Chaîne member, Michel Cottray, made this dream accessible. Nearly all those taking part dressed in the suggested “white with a touch of blue” for an exceptional moment letting themselves be carried away by the magic of the extraordinary place that is the beach of the Hôtel Martinez.

After the Annual General Meeting on Saturday morning, those who had reserved their places headed to Eze to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the coast. Just a stone's throw from Nice, this little village takes one back in time. The outstanding cuisine of Les Remparts delight all the senses.

To end this 2023 International gathering on a high note, nothing could be more prestigious than a Gala evening at the Negresco situated on the Promenade des Anglais. Firstly, the Induction Ceremony was presided over by President Yam Atallah. The dinner-show which followed was in partnership with Cognac Camus, courtesy of Professionnel du Vin Cyril Camus, Not only were we in the mythical place that is the Negresco, but we were also in for an evening full of surprises from the Camus extravaganza themed “Art and the Table”.

Our Secrétaire Générale, Sabine Tachot, and her team from the Siège Mondial worked tirelessly to ensure that all the events and meetings went perfectly. Many thanks go to them for their devotion to the task and unflagging spirit.

Congratulations all round therefore on the great success that was this International Grand Chapitre on the Côte d'Azur.

Marie Jones
Managing Editor
International Vice-President

Photos courtesy of (c) Laetitia d'Aboville