Monte Carlo
There are a lot of glamorous destinations on the French Riviera – and that’s why we love it! Even if you don’t have a yacht of your own, it’s fun to be in a place where they’re more common than tractors (says the girl from Saskatchewan, Canada).
Of all the fabulous destinations on the fabulous Côte d’Azur (another word for the French Riviera), no place has more flair than Monte Carlo, and there is no better place to brush shoulders with the international elite. And though it’s often considered one of the best places to visit in the South of France, Monte Carlo is actually in Monaco, which is not France.
Monaco is a country. It’s just really really small, and really really near France – about 20 km (12 miles) from Nice.
With no personal income tax, this idyllic – and expensive – haven attracts many of the globe’s wealthiest people. Ruled by the Grimaldi family (hello, Prince Albert!) for the last 700 years, Monaco may be small but it packs a punch, and the Monte Carlo quarter is its centre of glam. There are plenty of jet-set-worthy things to do in Monte Carlo, so read on.
Monte Carlo, Monaco, is in the southeast coastal region of France. Bordered by France on three sides, it looks out over the sparkling Mediterranean from a lofty point on a promontory at the base of the Alpes-Maritimes.
Sitting right smack on the Place du Casino, which is pretty much the centre of everything, the Belle Epoque Café de Paris, built in 1868, is the ideal place to spy on all the other jet setters (and tourists) in Monte Carlo.
Aim for a seat on the terrace, put on your sunglasses (Monaco has 300 days a year of sunshine so you’ll need them) and try to adopt an expression of cosmopolitan boredom … even though you’re not bored at all, because you’re in Monte Carlo!
The jet setters are the ones breezing in and out of the posh hotels, casinos and restaurants without hesitation. The tourists are the ones biting their nails, referring to their guidebook and hesitating before entering any Monte Carlo establishment, wondering if they meet the dress code and what kind of damage it’s going to do to their credit card. (Oh, wait. That might have been me.)
When it comes to jet-setty things to do in Monte Carlo, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is often the first thing people think of. For good reason. There is probably not one other place in the world that screams (discreetly, of course) money, power and style like this hallowed hall of gambling.
The casino itself is a Belle Epoque beauty built in 1863. And while you can go in, as long as you pay €10, don’t wear flip flops or shorts, are over 18 and bring your passport, citizens of Monaco aren’t allowed to play here. (Which is perverse, because I know someone who gambled with Prince Albert in this very spot – at least he said he did – either my ex boyfriend acquaintance is lying, or allowances are made if you’re part of the ruling family.)
Also on the Place du Casino is the sumptuous Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. It may be the most lavish hotel you’ll ever step into, especially after its recent and costly four-year renovation.
Today, this 150-year-old hotel is a symbol of Côte d’Azur grandeur and prestige, and you’re likely to run into some of Monaco’s wealthiest residents here, who don’t mind dropping big bucks at one of the world’s most exclusive restaurants, the hotel’s Louis XV.
Built in 1863, the 99-room 5-star Hôtel de Paris has featured in a number of films including two James Bond flicks, Never Say Never Again and GoldenEye.
High-end shops are concentrated around the Cercle d’Or. The Métropole Shopping Centre also has boutiques. Personally, I didn’t find shopping here all that fantastic, but given an unlimited credit card I’m sure I could have happily spent millions.
There is also a Zara at 27 Avenue de la Costa for those on a budget, but who are determined to go home and flaunt the fact that they were shopping in Monte Carlo.
Possibly, as a practising jet setter, getting back to nature is the last thing you feel like doing on a glam visit to Monte Carlo. But I’m not talking baggy chinos, hiking boots and a backpack.
I’m talking about putting on your Valentinos and taking an easy stroll through the district’s green spaces such as the Jardins Du Casino and the pretty Allée des Boulingrins.
For the best views, circle around the casino for a spectacular panorama of the Mediterranean below.
Monte Carlo is a food-filled haven. Just expect to pay for the privilege. This is when the advantages of a date day over a date night in Monte Carlo become clear.
Lunch menus are cheaper than evening menus. And remember this: Set menus (prix fixe) are your friend. But one thing is certain, when it comes to things to do in Monte Carlo, dining is an absolute highlight.
Jimmy’z epitomises Monaco, with drinks costing you at least €30, it’s not one for the faint-hearted. The club is set around a stunning Japanese garden, overlooking the Mediterranean sea!
Known to provide clubbers with the ultra VIP experience, where champagne reigns supreme and the turntables are only played by the best. You won’t be let down by a night at Jimmy’z…but your wallet may be left a little empty!
For over 40 years, the Jimmy’z has no shortage of legendary DJ’s gracing the decs. The likes of Robin Schulz, Michael Calfan, Lost Frequencies, Martin Solveig, Bob Sinclar, Mark Ronson, FatBoy Slim , Big Ali and Benny Benassi have all had a night at Jimmy’z! The real stars du show!
Between the Grimaldi Forum and Fairmont Hotel, you’ll find Le TWIGA.
A real favourite amongst the Monegasques. Living up to its swanky reputation, you can access the club directly by boat, it has its own jetty, not to mention a seaside terrace, with outstanding views over the Med.
Dinner is Italo-Japanese – right beside the seaside – before the establishment segues into no-holds-barred clubbing around 1am, where you can dance straight through to 5am.
It comes into its own at Grand Prix time, holding “beach parties” every evening with luminaries such as Bob Sinclair at the turntables. There’s also a shisha bar, for those who need a little relaxation. An allrounder in Monaco that should be on your list! Cocktail start from €15, and meals from €30-€90.
Hope this helped !!!
