The glitz of Monaco

THE PRINCE’S PALACE OF MONACO. A 12th century fortress-turned-residence.
THE PRINCE’S PALACE OF MONACO. A 12th century fortress-turned-residence.

WHERE would you like to go when Covid-19 is over?

Many of us are dreaming of the day we can go to the nearest shore and relax like we’re holidaying on a beautiful Mediterranean coast.

There are not many places in the world where luxury and splendor entwine in real life. Where residents live a comfortable life, where nothing is ever enough and, most especially, where no income tax is imposed – this is where many people want to live.

Under the leadership of a prince living on a walled promontory in Southern France, Monaco is very well known for gambling and glamor. It’s where the world’s wealthiest people converge; hence, dubbed as the most compelling destination for the privileged, the powerful and the upper class.

Monte Carlo

Often confused as the capital of Monaco, Monte Carlo is a place of extravagance. One of the principal tourist attractions, this hilly district is the address of casinos, excellent hotels and luxury boutiques for the big shots who enjoy spending money. Whilst four casinos were established in the quarter, residents are barred from engaging in any of its gratifying games. I didn’t know much about its regulations and restrictions until then. All the while I thought residents were squandering time on games while trying not to break their personal banks.

Access to the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo was strictly controlled. With calm and quiet confidence, I stepped into the lair of those not afraid to splurge. My curiosity pushed me forward, perhaps for inspiration to see what it looked like on the other side. In the midst of slot machines and croupiers, not knowing what to do, I felt dull and bored. I veered off from the likelihood of winning, had I tried, to the hanging terrace disguised as a park, below it a tunnel. The spell of the seashore nearby and the graceful gulls in the air, the beauty in the unexpected, had me obsessed, I decided to linger for a little while.

Soon after, I wished to go to the House of Grimaldi, which was not so far away. I waited for the red bus just right across the casino, a world-famous monument of history. Next to it, the palatial Hôtel de Paris, a luxurious accommodation anyone could wish for, that reminded me of a movie simply titled Monte Carlo.

Prince’s Palace

Always in the spotlight of Monaco is the noble residence of Prince Albert II. Perched atop Le Rocher (The Rock), an exquisite hill designated as old town (aka Monaco-Ville), it watches over its principality and overlooks the borders into France, Italy and beyond. With a long history of its own, it belonged and is still occupied to this day by members of the deep-rooted Grimaldi bloodline. And like any prestigious fort that invites a visit, it has witnessed the changing times, many battles and ceremonies of sovereigns.

There was magic behind every corner outside the Prince’s Palace; everywhere I looked was a slice of style. Not only was the view of Port Hercules breathtaking, but the hill itself was also full of historic gems. The town hall, Irish Library, museums, 17th century chapels, French-style shops and restaurants were the places of interest along narrow cobbled streets. In all honesty, I fell in love with the place at first sight.

Stately beauty

Monaco created some noise in the ‘50s when a beautiful American actress accepted the marriage proposal of its prince. Born rich, and at the height of her acting career, Academy awardee Grace Kelly left Hollywood royalty for the life of a princess. She was loved by her people, but her real-world fairytale ended tragically. Her legendary status, however, will long remain in human memory.

Still on The Rock, the circular shape of the courthouse, a beautiful architectural jewel, also draws the attention of those who come and visit the famous Monaco Cathedral. Designed with an old two-way staircase, the Palace of Justice stands right next to where Prince Rainer III and Grace Kelly got married, several years back. Dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the marvelous cathedral also shelters the resting place of the Prince and his Princess.

Across the church, I enjoyed nature’s beauty around me. The monuments, flowers and succulents breathed life into the scenic cliffside garden dedicated to Saint Martin. This beautifully landscaped seaside park, the perfect setting to just chill out, has many imposing viewpoints hanging over the steep edge. It felt like exploring a secret garden, the reward was peace and quiet at every turn.

Don’t get me wrong – you don’t have to be a millionaire to set foot in Monaco. Even if it’s one of the pricier cities in Western Europe, it is not as expensive (to look around) as you may think.

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