One of our CEO’s favorite places in the world – enter Monaco.

Celebrated as the jewel of the French Riviera, Monaco is not just a playground for the rich and famous, but a vibrant microcosm of luxury, culture, and unparalleled beauty. Plus, the results are in for 2024 and Monaco has been named Europe’s second best destination.

Let’s not waste any more time and dive into the crème de la crème of Monaco…

NEIGHBORHOODS

Monte Carlo: More than its world-famous casino, Monte Carlo is the cultural and entertainment heart of the principality – a mosaic of prestigious hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. The district’s architecture, from Belle Époque to contemporary design, frames its avenues and squares. It’s an urban landscape that exudes chic elegance, history, and luxury.

Fontvieille: A testament to Monaco’s innovative and forward-thinking spirit, this thriving and dynamic neighborhood is built entirely on reclaimed land. Its more modern architecture and residential atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to the historic grandeur found in other nearby neighborhoods. Fontvieille is home to the Stade Louis II of the Monaco football team and the Monaco Heliport, offering quick access to and from the principality. The area also boasts beautiful parks, including the Princess Grace Rose Garden (of over 4,000 roses!), and cultural attractions like the Naval Museum.

La Condamine: This is the commercial heart of Monaco, bustling with activity day and night. La Condamine is known for its vibrant market (more on this later), where locals and visitors alike come to shop for fresh produce, flowers, and a variety of local and international foods. It is also home to Port Hercules, documented as one of the most beautiful harbors in the world, and is a culinary hotspot, offering a taste of the diverse food scene – from street food to gourmet dining. La Condamine is the place where the community comes together, whether for shopping, dining, or celebrating the Monaco Grand Prix, which runs directly through its streets.

Monaco-Ville: Also known as “Le Rocher” or “The Rock,” Monaco-Ville is the historic heart of Monaco. This fortified old town sits high on a rocky promontory overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Walking through its narrow medieval streets, you’ll find the Prince’s Palace, the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, and the Oceanographic Museum, along with charming boutiques and eateries. The district is steeped in history yet retains a quaint, village-like feel, providing a stark contrast to the glamour and modernity of the rest of Monaco.

HOTELS

Hôtel de Paris: Here is an icon of luxury not just in Monaco but around the world, standing majestically next to the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Opened in 1863, and recently renovated in 2019, this hotel has long been a beacon of allure, attracting celebrities, royalty, and discerning travelers with its impeccable service, exquisite design, and historical significance. The hotel’s lavish rooms are decorated in a Belle Époque style that seamlessly blends opulence with comfort. It is also home to two Michelin-starred restaurants and its guests can enjoy access to the Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, a state-of-the-art spa and wellness center. The most notable part? Its wine cellars. Among the largest in the world, housing over 350,000 bottles of the finest wines from all of France’s wine-making regions, the cellars are a legendary experience. Looking for a way to wow your guests? An exclusive tasting led by a master sommelier. You can thank us later.

Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort: Nestled atop the Larvotto peninsula, Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort is known for its sandy-bottomed lagoon, a rarity that blends the feel of a tropical beach with the luxury of a top-tier resort. Its rooms are casual, chic, and modern Mediterranean, with most featuring stunning panoramic sea views. Awarded two stars in the Michelin guide, the menu at Blue Bay, by Chef Marcel Ravin, is characterized by a bridge between the Mediterranean and Creole flavors – bold, passionate, and innovative. All things we LOVE. Its culinary offerings change every three weeks and meat and fish are the sides; it’s the locally-grown vegetables that are the star of the show. Which brings us to our next point – the resort’s remarkable commitment to sustainability and environmental protection is evident in its operations (well, their slogan is ‘keep calm and act green’)!

Hôtel Hermitage: The Hôtel Hermitage is a masterpiece of Belle Époque architecture, exuding a timeless elegance that has welcomed guests since the early 20th century. Also home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, Pavyllon Monte-Carlo is “rewriting the fine dining rulebook.” It is both understated and cosmopolitan, just like Monaco itself. Guests here can enjoy front-row seats at the bar to the “culinary ballet of the kitchen” – super cool! We can’t forget about The Salle Belle Epoque – the jewel in the hotel’s crown and the perfect place for hosting an extraordinary gala. A listed historical site, its terrace (named one of the most beautiful on the French Riviera) offers views over the Port and Monaco, its décor consists of ten pink marble columns, a rotunda and ornate ceilings by the painter, Gabriel Ferrier, a Prix de Rome winner and recipient of a Médaille d’Or at the Universal Exhibition in 1889. And we know we are not alone when we say our favorite spot to unwind and truly THINK like creatives is at the hotel’s winter garden, designed by Gustave Eiffel…

Le Méridien Beach Plaza: Sometimes, we like to play it safe – and Marriott is the epitome of dependability and well, you know what you’re gonna get. Le Méridien Beach Plaza is a unique, urban resort that boasts the only private beach in Monaco. And for the more adventurous groups, you know what that means…water sports! This hotel is also undergoing an exciting transformation in its culinary realm. It has just opened the first Belgian Brassiere in Monaco and a Mediterranean outdoor lounge and traditional Balinese bar are scheduled to open in spring of 2024. The hotel is the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

RESTAURANTS

MayaBay: MayaBay is renowned for its authentic and sophisticated approach to Asian cuisine, offering two separate dining areas dedicated to Thai and Japanese dishes. The decor is as thoughtful and refined as the menu, providing a truly immersive dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality ingredients has made it a favorite among both locals and visitors. They even provide a unique “TukTuk” transport service through the streets of Monte Carlo for a truly authentic and exceptional guest experience.

Cipriani: Located in the heart of the principality at the foot of the prestigious Mirabeau building, Cipriani quickly became one of the leading restaurants in the French Riviera since its inception in 2010. The ultra-modern, glass façade is a striking juxtaposition to the refined and warm interior, characterized by rich mahogany walls, marble floors, brown, leather chairs and a stylish collection of black & white photographs by distinguished art photographer, Vanessa Von Zitzewitz. Its elegant bar and terrace are the ideal spots for enjoying an aperitif or post-spaghetti cocktail.

Quai des Artistes: A Parisian-style brasserie overlooking the Port of Monaco, Quai des Artistes is known for its lively atmosphere and classic French cuisine. The restaurant’s extensive menu, featuring fresh seafood, meat dishes, and seasonal specials, is complemented by an impressive wine list. The establishment opened in 1999 and soon after, became an institution that cultivated “both the spirit of conviviality typical of Parisian brasseries and the gentle Mediterranean way of life.”

Sass Café: This spot offers a unique blend of café culture and nightlife, making it a favorite among Monaco’s elite and international visitors alike. By day, it’s a laid-back café where you can enjoy a relaxed meal or a coffee in a classy setting. By night, Sass Cafe undergoes a metamorphosis into a trendy, glamourous, celebrity hotspot with live music and eclectic DJs (if you stay long enough to watch the sun rise).

MUSEUMS & DISCOVERY

Musée Océanographique de Monaco: An ode to marine life and exploration, this monumental museum offers an immersive dive into the ocean’s depths. Its aquariums, exhibitions, and historical collections make it a captivating visit for all. Not to mention, the museum’s architecture, perched dramatically on the cliffside, is a marvel in and of itself.

Villa Paloma (Nouveau Musée National de Monaco): Villa Paloma blends art with history, hosting contemporary art exhibitions in a stunning Belle Époque villa. The museum’s programs are thought-provoking and innovative, offering a fresh perspective on modern and contemporary art.

The Grimaldi Forum: A cultural powerhouse, hosting a diverse range of events from art exhibitions to ballet performances and concerts. Its state-of-the-art facilities and stunning seaside location make it a central figure in Monaco’s cultural landscape.

The Private Collection of Antique Cars of H.S.H. Prince Rainier III: This exhibition is the only one of its kind in the world, showcasing over 70 vintage automobiles, including racing cars that have competed in the Monte-Carlo Rally and the Monaco F1 Grand Prix.  It’s a journey through automotive history, highlighting the evolution of design and engineering and offering visitors an opportunity to relive the most important moments in the history of the Princely family.

Sculpture Path: An outdoor museum of sorts, multitudes of sculptures by internationally recognized artists are featured all in one area near the sea in the Fontvieille district. It’s free and easy to walk through (music to our ears)!

GALLERIES

Opera Gallery: Opera Gallery stands as a prominent international player in the art world, showcasing works by some of the 20th and 21st centuries’ most recognized artists, including Picasso, Miro, and Dalí, as well as pieces by up-and-coming contemporary artists. They offer a dynamic exhibition program, hosting several exhibitions throughout the year, too.

Kamil Art Gallery: This lesser-known gallery is dedicated to promoting thought-provoking, contemporary works of art by established and emerging artists from around the world. The gallery focuses on innovative exhibitions that challenge and inspire viewers, covering a wide range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography.

M.F. Toninelli Art Moderne: Specializing in modern and post-war art, the gallery’s collection includes significant works by artists who have shaped the artistic movements of the last century, with a particular emphasis on the School of Paris. It’s a place where visitors can appreciate the depth and diversity of modern art through carefully curated exhibitions.

SHOPPING

Cercle d’Or: The most famous shopping district in Monaco, featuring high-end boutiques and the most prestigious of designer brands. Whether you’re interested in actually shopping or just window shopping (like us), this is a must-see.

Le Métropole Shopping Center: Nabil Boustany, a prominent Lebanese developer, had a dream to create a luxury complex in the heart of Monaco. The plans were drawn up with the collaboration of numerous famous architects and this dream became reality on May 13, 1988. Everything was designed to inspire a luxurious lifestyle, and its 80 fine boutiques and 7 restaurants with marble floors and majestic crystal chandeliers do just that.

La Condamine Market: A blend of tradition and gourmet delights, this market is the heart of Monaco’s heritage. Here, one can find local specialties, fresh produce, and artisanal products, offering a taste of the authentic Monegasque lifestyle.

EXPERIENCES

La Distillerie: About two blocks from La Condamine Market is Monaco’s first (and only) distillery, La Distillerie. Live a multi-sensory experience and taste its small, but exquisite collection of local spirts and liqueurs – and don’t forget about it’s signature product, L’Orangerie. Bitter oranges are hand-picked along the streets of Monaco once a year (around January/February) and the citrus zest is infused with the finest alcohol in the atelier to craft this libation. Sit back and allow a glass of the liqueur to tell the story of the Principality of Monaco, sip by sip.

Heritage Tree Trails: Over 20% of Monaco’s territory is enveloped in lush gardens and parks, a testament to the principality’s commitment to preserving its natural essence amidst the dazzle and luxury. While Monaco is often celebrated for its opulence, it also cherishes its green spaces, as evidenced by the Heritage Tree Trail introduced in 2013. The trail invites explorers to meander through enchanting gardens like St Martins, the Japanese Garden, and Princess Grace Garden. We think this hidden gem deserves more spotlight!

Thermes-Marines Spa: We all know wellness is a no brainer for travelers these days. And Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo emerges as the quintessential sanctuary of transformative wellness and rejuvenation. This esteemed spa and health club extends beyond traditional spa services, offering a holistic approach to wellness that combines cutting-edge technology with ancient spa traditions. From hydrotherapy and cryotherapy to bespoke massages and beauty services, the spa’s commitment to personalized wellness is what makes it a must-visit (not just its INCREDIBLE views).

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Monaco, with its unique blend of Mediterranean charm and unparalleled sophistication, presents itself as an ideal backdrop for hosting indelible experiences. The principality’s diverse world-class hotels, exclusive dining options, and rich cultural tapestry provide a comprehensive palette for crafting the extraordinary.

And that, friends, is why our CEO would choose Monaco any time, any day.

Mic drop.