Monaco

July 3, 2012 | Filed under: Monaco | Posted by: Dreamer

Monaco is located on the Mediterranean coast near the French-Italian border, and is generally regarded as part of the French Riviera, but is an independent state. Its streets are immaculately clean and the crime rate is kept to a minimum here. The calling card of the resort is one of the oldest and most prestigious casinos in Europe, Monte Carlo, which has become the European capital of gambling. What’s more, Monaco hosts world’s famous Formula 1 street auto racing, as well as numerous music and circus festivals. The country is an ideal destination also because of the fact that there is no need to pay taxes on income in this kingdom of pleasures, not to mention the close proximity to one of the most “open” royal families around the world.
You can get to Monaco from France or Italy by car. The road from Nice Airport to the Principality takes about an hour by car or bus. You also have the option of coming here by a helicopter just in 10 minutes and the flight costs as much as the taxi ride. Moreover, a helicopter company will provide you with a vehicle that will take up the necessary space. Alternatively, you can get to Monaco by train, which, incidentally, resides directly to the subway station.

Monaco travelers are usually recommended to visit the Oceanographic Museum, which also hosts a spectacular Aquarium, founded by Jacques Yves Cousteau. Also, being in Monaco, you should not miss the chance to see the changing of the guard, which takes place every day at noon at the Palace Square.
Anyone who watched the legendary Formula One motor race of the Monaco Grand Prix, definitely noticed that the country and particularly its unofficial capital Monte Carlo (Monaco, doesn’t have an official capital because it is a city-state) don’t look so luxurious as the citizens and guests of the Principality. Most buildings are not attractive, and multi-level urban jungle is cut off from the bustling waterfront trails.
Perhaps Monte Carlo is the most famous and undoubtedly the richest of the ten districts of the Principality of Monaco. This small area, situated at the foot of the Maritime Alps, is known as the world of glamour and excitement, fashion houses and casinos. The name has an Italian origin and means “Mount Charles” named after the Prince of Monaco, Charles III, who founded the town in 1866. Today, in addition to the world-famous casino (by the way, the local residents aren’t allowed to play in the casinos) and race track of “Formula 1″, Monte Carlo is home to the royal family, as well as is the residence of many celebrities and athletes.

Due to the mild Mediterranean climate, Monte Carlo is suitable for recreation almost all year round, although winter is sometimes wet and even cold. However, 300 days a year the area is filled with sunlight and heat. If you want to relax, it’s best not to schedule a trip in May during the Monaco Grand Prix, as the city gets too crowded.
Monaco-Ville is an ancient fortified city, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Monaco. Monaco-Ville, sometimes simply referred to as Monaco,
is more than just a beautiful city. This is where the story of the municipality originated. Despite the fact that Monaco-Ville has many tourists, cars are allowed only for the local residents, and after 22:00 anyone who moves even in a gasoline motorcycle is banned.

Visiting Monaco-Ville you will learn more about the principality. It’s recommended to visit the elegant cathedral, magnificent palace, numerous museums or just walk along the tiny lanes of the old part of the town. In Monaco-Ville you will find the best specimens of both classical and contemporary art, will get a chance to have a look at the archaeological remains of Ligurians, Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans.
Monaco is definitely an excellent choice for those who want to look at the others and show off themselves, but also come face to face with celebrities. Life is literally in full swing here! However, the place is unlikely to please those who are looking for free space with the exception of a few man-made parks.