Foreign travelers driving up business during France's summer season

The French Riviera is experiencing a surge in tourism this year, with foreign visitors making up a significant portion of the clientele. According to Stéphane Vuillaume, the general director of the Belles Rives group, the influx of tourists has exceeded expectations.

The Belles Rives group primarily caters to foreign tourists, and this year has seen a notable increase in visitors from Australia. One Australian tourist is embarking on a seven-day tour around the Mediterranean, while Australia has also seen a significant increase in long stays at the Belles Rivages group.

Stéphane Vuillaume reported that the Belles Rives group has had record numbers of tourists this season. Before the school year started, the French Riviera had an average occupancy rate of nearly 85% along the coast. The American continent has been particularly strong in long stays at the Belles Rivages group.

The French clientele is spending less this year, as indicated by ordering fewer courses and drinks. However, at another hotel on the French Riviera, Americans and Britons are the most numerous compared to the French. Foreign tourists make up nearly 50% of the clientele at one hotel on the French Riviera.

Alexander Gelegs, the general director of "Le 1932" hotel, also noted the increase in foreign tourists. The nations with the largest increase in tourist numbers on the French Riviera this year are primarily the United States, China, and the United Kingdom, according to Stéphane Vuillaume.

Despite the final stretch of the tourist season being a critical period for professionals, the Belles Rives group and other establishments on the French Riviera are optimistic about the remaining month of the season. With record numbers of tourists and a diverse clientele, the French Riviera is set to end the year on a high note.