Who needs a chic V-neck insignia when you’ve got the entire gorgeous nation at your fingertips? Careen down the Azur Express for a once-in-a-lifetime chance at Formula One Grand Prix tickets, Salle Garnier Opera House arias, and the below-sea level antics of the Grimaldi Forum. Just be prepared to make room for Lady Luck after a post-Monte Carlo casino-win cuddle.
the romance
Neapolitan eateries and ultra-friendly locals make hardcore rocking in Monaco an effortless cinch. Unparalleled views of jaw-dropping cliffs, fresh splashes of seafood, and jump-jiving piano bars make this starlet of a hotspot one of a kind.
Be sure to indulge in:
A thalassotherapy class and uber-bask-session for two in a five star rated solarium
A topped-off glass glinting luncheon along the infamous Avenue Saint Martin
A Jacques-Cousteau-cute kiss in front of the Riviera, after perusing the stunning Musée Océanographique
the scenery
Photo by Dotori
Never say never again when it comes to golden-eyeing some of the best scenery this side of the silver screen. Monte Carlo teams up with princes’ palaces and shimmering palms – and when comes to shopping, this sovereign state is an official tax seventh haven.
Do check out:
The angelically aerial views from the Tête de Chien
The yummy geography of the Moyenne-Corniche
The amphitheater-like quality of the Alpes-Maritimes
the attractions
Bartering over the kitschy wares of the Condamine Market is only half of the fun whilst cliff-side gardens and medieval cathedrals strike getaway gold.
Va-ca in pure style thanks to:
A pit-stop at the post-card perfect Palais Princier
French-you-know-what in the cloistered suites of the Casino de Paris
The Japanese exoticism of Le Jardin Exotique (7000, yes 7000, types of blooms)
the adventure
Say yes please to the shadowy mystery of Monaco’s Observatory Caves and caution-to-the-wind game chips. Beach plazas and bustling harbors suggest the elite, but when it comes down to getting the ol’ manicured nails dirty, try:
Yacht-spotting along millionaire-littered Lavartto Beach
Some atrium loving beside 28 ionic golden circle columns of solid onyx
A blood-pumping helicopter flight a la magnifico Heli-Air Monaco
the secrets
Much to the gastronome’s delight, snacking in Monaco is considered more than kosher. Try such Monégasque specialties such as an appetizer of barbagiuan – a fantastical amalgamation of rice, spinach, leek and yummy cheese. As the Old Town quarter chills out in the midday sun, be sure to seek out:
The tryst-like hideouts of Serene Highness Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly
The gleaming real-gold chandeliers, rococo turrets, and verdigris cupolas of the phantom-loving Paris Opera House
Lighten up with a spree within the Golden Square – here is where Chanel and Gucci reign
before you go
What to Expect
Spring: April through June are pleasant (14-21 C/57-70 F). Blue skies are common and
winds are strong.
Summer: July and August are hot (21-26 C/70-79 F). Humidity is also high during this
time of the year.
Autumn: September through October remain warm and dry (15-21 C/59-70 F).
Winter: December through March are the rainiest months of the year. Temperatures are
cooler but remain relatively mild (8-12 C/46-54 F)
Clothing
Light, breathable garments are best.
Currency
The Euro
The Lingo
French, Italian, English and Monegasque
Documents
A valid passport
Local Delicacies
Brandamincium: Cod cooked with garlic and oil and served with cardoons on the side.
Fougasses: Rum-flavored cookies sprinkled with anise seeds and sugar.
