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Monte-carlo, Monaco
Squeezed in between Nice and the Italian border, the tiny Principality of Monaco is a tax-free haven on France's glamorous Côte d'Azur. Come here if you want to live the high life or mingle with those who do: casinos, yachts, designer boutiques and elegant bars are part of daily life.
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The soft thud of dice hitting felt, the crescendo of Formula 1 screaming round corners, the gentle lapping
of water against luxury yachts, the snap of Kodak as royals emerge…life in Monaco can almost be described
through sounds alone. This tiny principality, squeezed in between Nice and the Italian border, is a tax-free
haven on France's glamorous Cote d'Azur. With the foothills of the Alps plummeting spectacularly towards the
coast, gradients are steep like the prices and the sea sparkles like the dresses. But don't let this image
of grandeur put you off - order a café au lait in one of Monte Carlo's sun-drenched terraces and this is all
yours to soak up for no more than a few euros.
Culture
Monégasque culture is the type one buys a new frock for; it's an ideal accompaniment to martinis
and finger food. Most of its cultural institutions sprang up fresh-faced in the 17th century under
the patronage of Prince Honoré III. The prize-winning Monte Carlo Philharmonic has been thumping out
tunes since 1863, while the more modern Monte Carlo Ballet was established by Princess Caroline to honour
her mother's memory. Monte Carlo also has its own opera and several theatres.
If you scrape off Monaco's flawless makeup, however, you'll find the remnants of a deeply religious,
spiritual culture underneath. The legend of Dévote, the country's patron saint and founder is a cherished
part of Monégasque heritage. Every year on the 27th January a ceremony escorted with torchlight is held for
her at the Church of St Dévote. Monaco also venerates saints such as St Roman, a martyred Roman legionary,
and St John.
Climate
The shoulder seasons - April/May and September/October - are the most pleasant times, climatically, to visit Monaco. Summer - June to August - can be very hot, and you'll be pressing flesh with most of Europe. Winter is a better bet, as it may be a bit rainy but it's unlikely to be too cold. Car-racing fans will probably want to be here either in January for the Motor Rally or May for the Grand Prix.
City Sights
Monte Carlo Casino
The real birth of Monaco started in 1863 with the construction of the casino and the rise of gambling, which was forbidden in the neighbouring countries. It's no overstatement to say that the casino is probably the world's most elegant gambling hall. There is a small charge to enter and everybody can use the beautiful salons, wander around and watch people how they handle good and bad luck or just bask in the myth.
Musée OcéanographiqueIf you've got a thing for fish, it's worth making the trip to Monaco just to come here. The Musée is probably the best aquarium in Europe, with 90 seawater tanks and a display of living coral. There's also a display on the work of Jacques Cousteau and other ocean explorers. If you're unlucky enough to hit Monaco on one of those 65 rainy days, this is the perfect place to console yourself.
Palais du PrinceMonaco's royal palace has been around since the 13th century. Every Grimaldi since has found it necessary to leave their mark on the place, and as a result this is not one of Europe's most elegant castles. It is worth taking a look inside though - 15 rooms, including the Throne Room, are open to the public. There is an entrance fee but the changing of the guard won't cost a cent. It starts just before noon and is over within two minutes, so be on time.
In the south wing of the palace, the Musée des Souvenirs Napoléoniens has a collection of Napoleon's personal knickknacks, including one sock, a handkerchief and a bunch of medals, coins, uniforms and swords.
Activities
What would an internationally famous resort be without novel ways to drain your cash supplies? First and foremost among Monaco's entertainment options is a flutter at the Casino. Celeb spotters will be unable to resist Monte Carlo's beach, where the swimming is lousy but the tanning and conspicuous yacht parties are world class. Those with a taste for strolling should be able to circumnavigate the country (4.5 km of borders) before lunch, taking in some beautiful gardens, touristy alleys and views of France and Italy along the way.
Special Events
Monaco is a country that thrives on spectacle and glitz. The big one for the year has to be the Formula One Grand Prix, held in mid-May, when the world's best drivers hit the city streets and crossing the road becomes an extreme sport. Those who can't get enough of big, throbbing engines should also be in town in January for the Monte Carlo Motor Rally. Dedicated to showing off in all its forms, Monaco also hosts the International Circus Festival in January, the Great Magic Prize (an international prestidigitators' playoff) in March and the International Fireworks Competition (at the natural amphitheatre of Monaco's harbour) in July.
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