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An independent city-state west of the French Côte d'Azur, the
Principality of Monaco is the playground of Europe's celebrities and idle
rich. They are drawn by the sun, glamorous lifestyle and, most
importantly, tax-free income, not to mention being in close proximity to
one of the world's most publicized and famous Royal families. There are
more millionaires per capita in this, the world's most densely populated
country, than anywhere else, but true 'Monagasques' make up only about 15
percent of the population in a country that is jam-packed with opulence,
wealth and the world's most expensive real estate.
As anyone who has seen the legendary Grand Prix will know, Monaco and
its unofficial capital Monte-Carlo (the country doesn't actually have a
capital) aren't as good looking as its sleek residents and visitors; most
of the buildings are unattractive monstrosities, and the tiered urban
jungle is cut off from the shoreline by sweeping roads: the roads on which
Formula 1 racing cars screech during the annual Grand Prix in the second
week of May each year.
Monaco does, however, have a suitably glamorous history: disguised as a
Franciscan monk, Francois Grimaldi reclaimed a fortress on the Rock of
Monaco from a rival Italian bloc in 1297, giving the country its name,
which is derived from the word monk. The country soon became a major port
and prospered, and when Lord Honore II took power in 1604, he declared
himself a Prince - a tradition that remains today. Later, Monaco was
annexed by France, but the Grimaldis soon regained their power and in the
late 1800s, in order to restore wealth to the country, Prince Charles III
created the Societe des Bains de Mer, consisting of a casino, some hotels
and a theatre, from which sprung today's glittering Monte-Carlo area.
If its open spaces you are seeking, go elsewhere (apart from a few
ornate parks there is little to enjoy); likewise, if your wallet is light,
stay away, unless you want to try your luck at filling it in Monaco's
landmark Roccoco Casino. However, if you want see and be seen, and rub
cloaks with royalty, then Monaco is the place to be.
Basics
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last
Sunday in October).
Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. European round
2-pin plugs are used.
Money: The unit of currency is the Euro, divided into 100 cents.
Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change or hotels; bank hours
are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday, although the
Credit Foncier de Monaco near the Casino is open daily from 12pm to
11pm including holidays. Travelers cheques (US$ are the preferred
currency) are not widely accepted and should be exchanged at banks or
bureaux de change. All major credit cards are widely accepted
|
Currency Exchange Rates |
| EUR 1= |
US$ 1.30 |
£ 0.67 |
C$ 1.53 |
A$ 1.67 |
R 9.42 |
EUR 1.00 |
NZ$ 1.88 |
Note: This is not
updated daily and should be used as a guide only.
Language: The official language of Monaco is French, but English
and Italian, as well as Monégasque and Occitan (local languages) are also
spoken.
Entry Requirements for Americans: US nationals do not require a
visa for stays of up to three months; a valid passport is required.
Health: In general, no immunizations are necessary for travel to
Monaco and there are no major health risks. It is advised to carry enough
personal medication with accompanying doctor's letter. Medical insurance
is recommended.
Tipping: Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge, but
tipping extra for excellent service is appreciated. Porters/valets usually
expect a tip. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers, as they are
self-employed.
Safety: Trips to Monaco are usually trouble-free, but the usual,
sensible precautions such as being vigilant after dark and taking care of
valuables apply.
Customs: Swimsuits, bare chests and bare feet are restricted to
beaches and swimming areas only. Appropriate dress is required for visits
to religious buildings (Monaco is largely Roman Catholic). Jacket and tie
are required at the Casino.
Business: Business is usually conducted formally, with suits and
tie the norm. Greetings are made with a handshake and business cards can
be exchanged. French is the official language of Monaco, though some
English is spoken; it is best to ascertain beforehand which language will
be used. Business hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm Monday to
Friday.
Communications: The international access code for Monaco is +377.
The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044
for the United Kingdom). Mobile phone coverage is excellent and roving
agreements exist with most international mobile companies (it is best to
check with phone providers). Internet cafes are common.
Duty Free: Currency must be declared on arrival, but passengers are
allowed 400 cigarettes, 1 liter of liquor and a reasonable amount of
perfume for personal use.
Monte-Carlo
Monte-Carlo, unofficial capital of glamorous and lavish Monaco, is
surprisingly unattractive and is embellished more by its citizens and
visitors than its own attractions. The capital is a blend of ugly high
rise buildings and windy roads, but does boast the legendary Casino,
luxury hotels, elegant nightclubs and restaurants, views of the sparkling
Mediterranean and of course, the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. Established
in 1866, Monte-Carlo was named in honour of Prince Charles III and is the
richest of the country's four quarters. For years, Monte-Carlo has been
the playground of the rich and famous, from Hollywood starlets to royalty,
and business people dodging the taxman. It is also one of Europe's
foremost holiday resorts, but certainly not for the humble backpacker. The
city has several attractions, such as the Oceanographic Museum and
Aquarium, the Monaco Cathedral and the Prince's Palace, several gardens,
and other attractions centered on the country's famous Royal Family, such
as an exhibition of HSH Prince of Monaco's Private Collection of Classic
Cars. There are some interesting diversions, such as catamaran trips,
watersports, yachting and the Azur Express tourist train that links up the
city's attractions accompanied by multi-lingual commentary. Worth
exploring is the Old Town, with its attractive City Hall, and of course
when one is bored of sightseeing, the best diversion (and the cheapest) is
merely to settle down with a fancy cocktail and people-watch.
Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix
 The
Monaco Grand Prix has long been considered the crown jewel of the
Grand Prix circuit, and is the oldest and most prestigious of the lot.
All the glitz and glamour of Monaco itself adds to the excitement of
the demanding race that takes place on a narrow course through the
streets of Monte-Carlo, with tight corners and elevation changes
presenting a serious challenge to drivers.
Venue: Streets of Monte-Carlo. Date:
27 May 2007. |
Monte-Carlo Spring Arts Festival
The Spring Arts Festival is an annual showcasing of artistic talent
from around the world. A range of art, dance, music and theatre is on
offer at various venues around the capital and the festival includes
performances by the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and Les Ballets
de Monte-Carlo.
Venue: Various. Date: April 2007,
TBC. |
Monaco Yacht Show
 Each
year, nearly 100 of the world's most spectacular yachts are put on
display for boat-lovers and professionals alike and there are also
various related exhibits to explore. The focus is on luxury and
elegance and the who's who of Monaco is usually in attendance.
Venue: Port Hercules. Date: 19-22
September 2007, TBC. |
Palais du Prince
 Established
in the 13th century, Monaco's royal palace has been the residence of
the ruling Grimaldi family ever since. The most famous resident was
Grace Kelly, who was married to Prince Rainier III. Every generation
has left their mark on the place, and as a result this is not one of
Europe's most elegant castles from the outside. It is worth taking a
look inside though; 15 rooms, including the Throne Room, are open to
the public. In the south wing of the palace is the Musée des Souvenirs
Napoléoniens, which contains a collection of Napoleon's memorabilia.
The changing of the guard takes place in front of the palace every
day, lasting just two minutes, so take care to be on time.
Address: Place du Palais. Telephone:
9325 1831. Website:
www.palais.mc; Transport: Monaco Bus line 1 or 2
to the Place de la Visitation bus stop (signed Terminus Monaco-Ville).
Opening Time: State apartments: 9.30am to 6.30pm (1
June to 30 September), 10am to 5pm (October). Changing of the Guard:
11.55am. Admission: State apartments: EUR6 (adults),
EUR3 (children 8-14). Entrance to the museum is EUR4. |
Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
 Monaco's
Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium was opened by Prince Albert I in
1910 and houses his personal collection of marine life, models of the
Prince's laboratory ships and other crafts made from marine products.
The imposing building is perched dramatically on a cliff and faces the
sea, providing lovely views. The basement houses an impressive
aquarium with over 4,000 fish species and 200 invertebrates, as well
as the Shark Lagoon.
Opening Time: Daily 10am to 6pm (October to March);
9.30am to 7pm (April to June, and September); 9.30am to 7.30pm (July
and August). Admission: EUR11(adults); EUR6 (children
6-18). |
Airports
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE)
Location: The Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport is located
13.7 miles (22km) from Monaco in Nice, France.
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and last Sunday
in October).
Contacts: Tel: +33 (0)4 898 898 28.
Transfer between terminals: A free shuttle bus connects the two
terminals, which are also within walking distance.
Transfer to the city: Taxis, helicopters, car services and buses
link Nice Airport and Monaco. Helicopter rides take roughly seven minutes.
Car rental: All major car rental companies are represented opposite
Terminal 2.
Facilities: There are a number of restaurants, bars and shops,
banks and foreign exchange in both terminals. Other facilities in Terminal
1 include a post office and business centre with meeting rooms, fax,
photocopier and Internet access. Disabled facilities are good, passengers
with special needs should contact their airline in advance.
Parking: Plenty of short and long-term parking is available at both
terminals.
Departure tax: None.
Website:
www.nice.aeroport.fr
Climate
Monaco enjoys a mild, pleasant Mediterranean climate, averaging about 300
days of sunshine a year. Summer temperatures are usually in the 80-84º F
range (26-29ºC), while winter temperatures range between 48ºF and 58ºF
(8-14ºC). July and August are the hottest months, while spring and autumn
are perfect times to travel to Monaco as temperatures are at their
mildest.
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