Pop open the bottles of Bolly in celebration – Absolutely Fabulous, the film based on the beloved British comedy, airs in South Africa on 23rd September. The movie sees the ditsy fashionistas escape from London to the South of France, leaving a trail of chaos behind them (of course). As expected, only the best is good enough for Patsy and Eddie, and their adventures see them passing through some of the most glamorous and popular holiday destinations in the region. From Eddie’s central London abode, to southern France’s superyacht-lined coast, fans of the film are sure to be inspired by Ab Fab’s simply divine film locations. And with these six vacation spots, you’ll be able to follow in their Jimmy Choo-clad footsteps.
Holland Park
Eddie’s place of residency in the film, Holland Park, is a peaceful place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of central London. One of London’s greenest and most desirable postcodes, it’s a must-visit for history buffs and fans of traditional English gardens.
Top tip: Escape the noise of the busy streets and take some time to reflect in a tiny pocket of Japan called Kyoto Garden, found in Holland Park.
Soho
Known as the entertainment district and the new home of London Fashion Week, it’s no surprise that Soho sees Patsy and Eddie shopping and drinking in Ab Fab-style excess. If you wish to follow suit, the world-renowned Carnaby Street is where you can spend hours splurging on clothes from all the major high-street fashion brands, and in nearby China Town, you can chow down on incredible cuisine (or chic cocktails). Soho is a melting pot of cultures and people – a must-visit place to really immerse yourself in London life.
Top tip: Stroll around Old Compton, Broadwick and Wardour Streets, stopping off in an endless choice of coffee shops, restaurants and cocktail bars.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Patsy and Eddie find themselves in a car chase down one of the many cobbled streets in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Known as one of the most charming fishing villages on the French Riviera, this seaside resort is also home to one of the most beautiful bays in the world and is surrounded by buildings dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Make sure you visit Plage de la Darse, one of the smaller pebble beaches in this region that caters for the adventurous type – offering snorkelling, kayaking and diving.
Top tip: Wear cobble-friendly shoes as these streets don’t cater for footwear that is thinly-soled, despite anything Patsy and Eddie may say.
Saint Tropez
Only Patsy and Eddie would hide out from police on a luxurious yacht in the middle of Saint Tropez. This former fishing village has grown into a millionaire’s paradise, surrounded by glamorous yacht parties and drinks on tap.
Top tip: According to French law, it is required that all persons have their personal ID on them at all times. Avoid being caught on the wrong side of the law like Patsy and Eddie were…
St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
About half an hour’s drive from Nice is the millionaires’ playground of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, where the outrageous Ab Fab pair are seen swanning about the luxurious Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat which boasts a spa, numerous pools, a villa and 17 acres of immaculate gardens.
Top tip: If the price of an overnight stay is too eye-watering, book in a visit to the day spa, which allows access to the spa garden with its sea-view terrace.
Cannes
After flying a budget airline (shock, horror) and being forced to shack up in Cannes, the girls find themselves on the coastline famously known for its annual film festival. The luxury Hotel Martinez was featured in the film and is a meeting place for Hollywood A-listers during the festival.
Top tip: The streets tier back from the sea according to shopping price range, so streets closest to the sea are the most expensive and have the highest-end shopping.
