Monaco Life
On our budget, Deborah and I have no business hanging out in Monaco. But that didn’t stop us from making a day trip over to the posh, highbrow city-state for a day on our recent travels to Nice. Just a quick 30 minute drive from the popular French seaside destination, it’s a beautiful trek up high cliffs over a gorgeous coast, which not only takes you to another city famous on the Mediterranean Yacht crawl, but to an entirely different country all together. Making the final leg into Monaco through a series of long tunnels, we started the day with a stroll along the harbor of the famous Port Hercules, dreaming about which yacht we would like to own.
All-In at the Monte Carlo
From multiple James Bond movies, to Oceans 12, the list of high-profile movies filmed at this iconic location is well-known. For us, we just wanted to pop in, see the casino, and then sit at the bar, enjoying the ambiance while toasting a glass of bubbly.
The exterior of the Monte Carlo is beautiful. Designed by architect Charles Garnier, who is famous for designing the Paris Opera House, the casino opened on March 14, 1863. The interior has been remodeled numerous times since it’s opening, and truthfully, we thought it was just, “Meh”. With a reputation of luxury and opulence, the decor of the lobby, bar, and casino were attempts to flash affluence and elegance, and it didn’t really seem to achieve either.
The History of a Luxurious City-State
Monaco was originally settled by the ancient Greeks and later ruled by the Romans. The region changed hands many times after Roman rule, until the Grimaldi family, led by François Grimaldi, disguised themselves as Franciscan monks and successfully seized the fortress known as the Rock of Monaco. This event is considered the foundation of Monaco as a sovereign state.
In 1641, Louis XIII of France signed the Treaty of Péronne, which officially recognized Monaco’s independence from France. However, the treaty also stipulated that if the Grimaldi family were to become extinct, Monaco would revert to French control. This agreement allowed Monaco to maintain its independence but also subjected it to French influence.
In 1863, Charles III authorized the opening of the first casino in Monaco, the Casino de Monte-Carlo, which further solidified the principality’s reputation as a playground for the wealthy and elite. Tourism became a major industry, and the luxurious image of Monaco was firmly established.
Prince Rainier III, who ascended to the throne in 1949, played a significant role in shaping Monaco’s modern image. He married American actress Grace Kelly in 1956, further adding to Monaco’s allure and global prominence.
Monaco continues to be a prosperous and sought-after destination, especially known for its luxurious lifestyle, prestigious events such as the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, and its tax-friendly environment.
