What’s on in Sainte-Maxime this January

1 January 2016

Invest in Antiques & Benefit from Well-Being Advice at Leading Fairs in the Côte d’Azur

The impressive surroundings of Sainte-Maxime’s Théâtre de la Mer, located a mere 10 minute drive from Amarante Golf Plaza, boast an outstanding year-round calendar. This January, the leading entertainment destination will offer two fairs; one dedicated to antiquities and the other focussing on naturally-derived treatments relating to well-being. With the potential to make a gain both financially and health wise with the right investments, these two unique events will provide an exciting day out during a visit to the Côte d’Azur.

Antiques and Collections Fair 

Théâtre de la Mer 

9th – 10th January 2016

Sainte-Maxime’s Antiques and Collections Fair will be returning for its 5th edition this January. Located in a large marquee at the Théâtre de la Mer, the free entry event will offer the chance to browse a variety items including trinkets, books, furniture and coins. Exhibitors will vary between those with flea market offerings to specific collectors and antique specialists, ensuring that both those searching for a specific item or simply hoping to find something that catches their eye will be catered for.

French coins can be highly desirable depending on date and condition; with coins marked ‘Fleur de Coin’, which translates into uncirculated, commanding a higher price tag due to their pristine appearance. 19th century gold francs, such as those depicting Napoleon Bonaparte and Charles X, can be sold for a couple of thousand euros, partially due to the fact that their higher monetary value meant they had less owners, hence their condition was better preserved than those of a lower denomination. With francs having been replaced by the euro in 2002, sentimentality may mean many coins could be of interest to collectors in the future so this may be a key item to invest in.

Book worms may be excited to discover that Sainte-Maxime’s beautiful scenery inspired the adventures of one of the most famous elephants in the world; Babar. The rolling hills that surround the glittering bay of Saint-Tropez prompted author Jean de Brunhoff to include a hot air balloon ride, while the stretch of sand now aptly named ‘la plage des éléphants’ featured on pages four and five of 1934’s ‘The Travels of Babar’. First editions of 1933’s ‘The Story of Babar’ can raise in the vicinity of €3,500 while those of later books such as 1935’s ‘Babar The King’ can fetch up to €2,400. Whether you’re looking for the perfect keepsake from your visit to the French fishing town, or a bargain that could have potential, a visit to the Antiques and Collections Fair could provide a fruitful day out.

Well-Being Fair

Théâtre de la Mer 

29th – 31st January 2016

Following last year’s inaugural event, Sainte-Maxime’s Well-Being Fair is returning to offer advice, products and therapies that champion natural and organic ingredients. Visitors can address ailments, focus on relaxation and fine-tune their well-being by finding out more about alternative medicines and naturally-derived, sustainable ranges suited to their needs. This free event has been organised in association with magazine Biocontact; the latest edition of which explores the relationship between food and climate changes, eye health and using sesame as a cooking ingredient, and will be unmissable for anyone with even a slight interest in the industry.

The stunning countryside surrounding Sainte-Maxime and nearby Maures forest are home to a bountiful supply of pure, natural ingredients that boast beneficial qualities. Extra virgin olive oil produced from olive trees contains a high level of natural antioxidants that can prevent or delay damage to skin cells from stopping oxidation of molecules that can produce free radicals. This hydrating ingredient is used in a variety of products such as soaps and skin lotions that nourish and assist in fighting the signs of aging.

With its nutrient-filled soil and a sun-soaked climate, the area is also well-known for its sprawling vineyards… and winemaking has an advantageous by-product; grapeseed oil. Made by pressing the seeds of varieties of Vitis Vinifera grapes, this light oil absorbs into the skin quickly and contains proanthocyanidins, which boast 50 times more antioxidants than vitamin E. As well as useful in helping to reduce tired, dark circles around the eyes, this product can also aid acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and the fact it doesn’t leave a residue. Take the chance to find out which natural treatments will aid your personal well-being at this free event, located under the marquee at the beachside Théâtre de la Mer.

With two diverse events on offer, Sainte-Maxime can provide the perfect day out to suit a variety of tastes and interests this January.