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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 Océanographique: If 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 Prince: Monaco'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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