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Monte Carlo, Monaco
The independent principality of Monaco is famous as the playground of the Côte d’Azur. With sandy beaches, elegant hotels and a vibrant nightlife, this tiny domain is a favourite haunt of the jet set. In the possession of the Grimaldi family for more then 700 years, treaties with France guarantee Monaco’s independence.
The population of the fashionable enclave is 32,000 citizens, for an area smaller than New York’s Central Park, but it boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the world. In addition to its luxury hotels and beautiful beaches, Monaco is noted for its mild climate and magnificent scenery. Once an exclusive wintering stop for Europe’s aristocracy and royalty, today there are more than 5 million visitors annually. Of the principality’s four sections - La Condamine, Fontvieille, Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo, the latter two rank highest on every visitor’s must-see list.
In Monte Carlo, the Grand Casino and Opera is perhaps Monaco's most outstanding attraction. For more than a century, the principality's livelihood was centred beneath the copper roof of this splendid establishment. The resemblance to the Paris Opera House is less than accidental since they share the same architect, Charles Garnier. Also facing the square are the famed Hotel de Paris and the more modest Café de Paris. Monte Carlo spells sophistication; it is the epitome of elegance and glamour. Year after year, the rich and famous of business and entertainment gather here to bask in the sun, gamble at the world’s most opulent casino and attend spectacular parties. Nothing typifies more the elegant lifestyle of the Côte d’Azur than glamorous Monte Carlo.
Situated on a rocky peninsula, Monaco-Ville comprises the old town and the seat of Monaco’s government. Narrow streets lead to the Prince’s Palace high above the sea. The 19th-century Romanesque cathedral contains impressive works of art and the tombs of Princess Grace and Prince Rainer III, while the Parliament building and the Oceanographic Museum offer additional points of interest.
As if Monaco’s splendid attributes weren’t enough, the surrounding areas with their incredibly beautiful scenery are additional attractions.
Pier Information
The ship may anchor or dock at the Nouvelle Digue Port of Monaco. The Old Town (Monaco-Ville) can be reached via stairs and elevator after a 500-yard (457 metres) walk from the pier. Other sites in Monte Carlo are a distance of up to 1 mile (1.6 km) from the port. Taxis or city bus are generally available pierside.
Shopping
Designer boutiques offering elegant clothing and gorgeous jewellery are located around the Place du Casino, along rue des Moulins and at the Galerie Metropole. Some shops observe lunchtime between 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. The local currency is the euro.
Cuisine
Excellent restaurants and hotels cater to the most discriminating tastes at top prices. Open-air eateries near the port or around the Place du Casino offer more casual and somewhat less expensive options. Fresh seafood or a bouillabaisse, the delicious fish soup, is well worth a try.
Other Sites
The Casino
All the glitz and elegance can be experienced at Monte Carlo's ornate Casino. It opens at 12:00 p.m. with the European gaming rooms for Roulette, Trente and Quarante; slot machines are available from 2:00 p.m.; private gaming rooms open at 4:00 p.m. The entrance fee is 11 euros (at time of printing) and a passport is required to play.
Exotic Gardens
This enchanting place should not be missed. Located above Monte Carlo, the Jardin Exotique is filled with flowering plants, palm trees and cacti.
Musée National des Automates & Poupées d’Autrefois
The museum features a compelling collection of 18th- and 19th-century dolls and mechanical figures. It is magically set in a seaside village and is a favourite with many visitors.
Oceanographic Museum
Located in Old Monaco, the museum is known for its marine life section that is one of the best in Europe. It is among the projects that were administered by the late Jacques Cousteau.
Côte d'Azur
From Monte Carlo, trips into the surrounding areas include such favourite destinations as Nice, Eze and St. Paul de Vence. Driving along one of the scenic Corniche roads is in itself a highlight.
Private arrangements may be requested through the Tour Office on board.
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Safire American Bistro’s Partners Jim Foley and Executive Chef Michael Muirhead
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