MONACO, THE SECOND-SMALLEST COUNTRY ON EARTH
MONACO, THE SECOND-SMALLEST COUNTRY ON EARTH
The Principality of Monaco is a sovereign country on the French Riviera in Western Europe. The Sovereign Prince of Monaco is the Head of State (Prince Albert II) and the Prime Minister is the Head of the government. The country borders Italy, France (on three sides), and the Mediterranean Sea. Moreover, Monaco, the second-smallest country on earth, measures (2.1 square km) after Vatican City is also an independent state. Monte Carlo is its capital, and its population is about 38,000. Monaco is a prosperous, glamorous, sophisticated, and luxurious micro-state and a playground for the wealthy. It boasts of being the home of the most luxurious Casino worldwide and hosting the annual Formula One Grand Prix.
Monaco is known for its luxurious lifestyles, beautiful beaches, rich history, and culture. However, despite its tiny size, Monaco is a powerhouse, and is one of, if not the wealthiest country worldwide, according to its GDP per capita. Its economy mainly relies on the service industry, especially gaming, tourism, and finance. Consequently, most of its revenue comes from Postage Stamp sales, liquor and tobacco taxes, and property/business registration fees. Please continue reading to learn more about my visit to Monaco, the second-smallest country on earth.
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HOW TO GET TO MONACO?
Similar to San Marino, Monaco is another European country without an airport. Therefore, the most accessible route is from Italy or France, with Nice, France being the closest. Depending on your mode of transport to France (plane, bus, or train), you can get directly to Monaco by train or bus.
From the Nice Cote d’Azur International Airport (Terminal 2), you can find direct buses to the capital, Monte Carlo, which takes about 40 minutes for 20 euros. Note; if your flight arrives at Terminal 1, take the free shuttle train (available outside the airport entrance) to Terminal 2. Furthermore, Luggage hold/lockers are available there). Additionally, there are public buses that are much cheaper (under 10 euros) but take longer because they pick up and drop off passengers along the way. From Terminal 1 it’s a short ride by train to Nice city center, from there you will find the public buses. Of the three options, the train is the cheapest and fastest way to Monaco.
Besides, there is no border control between France and Monaco so it’s an easy uninterrupted ride straight to the Capital Monte Carlo. On arrival, head to your hotel, or if it is a day visit, exit the bus closest to the Monte Carlo Casino and begin sightseeing from there.
ABOUT THE CITY MONTE CARLO
Monte Carlo is officially the administrative district, and as previously mentioned, the luxurious capital of Monaco. Furthermore, it is known internationally as a city of extravagance, gambling, and a daring display and dispersal of wealth. Monaco was created in 1866 and is the most popular area in Monaco, with a permanent population of about 3500. It is a high-end city, so the word economical is non-existent making it one of the most expensive cities to visit worldwide.
This gorgeous city boasts luxury hotels, lavish royal palaces, and sporting clubs. Additionally, visitors can enjoy and marvel at its pristine Larvotto Beach, green spaces, and lush gardens like the Boulingrins, and Japanese-style Garden. However, the Monte Carlo Opera and the most famous internationally renowned Monte Carlo Casino is its “Piste de la Resistance.” Speaking of which, in 1863 `Charles III Grimaldi, the Prince of Monaco founded it.
Monte Carlo is clearly for those who can afford the luxurious lifestyle. Because from observation, the lux-filled streets were filled with mainly high-end cars such as; Lamborghini, Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover, Mercedes Benz, etc. However, despite its display of riches and opulence, it felt very much grounded and with an unpretentious atmosphere. Needless to say, the entire city was squeaky clean, not a speck of litter could have been seen anywhere.
The picturesque Old Town, shopping districts, and boulevards were beautifully appointed with clean, neat sidewalks. Moreover, the entire area is synonymous with luxury, from designer stores to the harbour gleaning with luxury yachts. Besides, the quay of Port Hercule is tranquil and picturesque and is perfect for strolling or shopping.
Monaco, the Second-smallest Country on Earth Cont...
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Tips and Fun Facts about Monaco
- The languages spoken – French (the official language), Italian, Monegasque, and English among others.
- Official currency – Euro
- Monaco has the highest life expectancy worldwide, averaging 89 years.
- The principality of Monaco is divided into four administrative districts namely; La Condamine, Fontvieille (the newest), Monaco-ville (the oldest), and Monte Carlo.
- Monaco is a member of the United Nations (UN) since 1993.
- The House of Grimaldi is the reigning house of the Principality of Monaco. Grimaldo Canella founded it in 1160, however, it became the House of Monaco when Francesco Grimaldi Genoese, a nobleman, captured it in 1297. It is one of Europe’s oldest ruling dynasties, and since the 18th century, every Prince of Monaco has been a descendant of the House of Grimaldi.
- Monaco’s Monte Carlo Casino is most glamorous and it attracts visitors from all over the world.
- By law, the citizens of Monaco are forbidden from gambling or even visiting a casino. It is even more surprising being the home of the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino and gambling enthusiasts. This is a genius initiative by Princess Caroline,. Encourage the locals keep their money and the visitors to gamble away theirs, ha!
- Indonesia and Monaco flags are almost identical, somewhat varying in dimensions and the shade of red.
Monaco, the Second-smallest Country on Earth Cont...
- Monaco’s popular Tax Haven status attracts the ultra-wealthy and businesses because of its favorable tax environment and low corporation tax.
- The Monaco Yacht Show is a premier event that showcases some of the world’s most luxurious yachts.
- Monaco enjoys a temperate climate with cool summers and mild winters. Therefore, it is perfect for those who do not like super-hot summers and very freezing winters.
- Monte Carlo Casino was opened in the 19th century, attracting visitors from all over Europe and eventually the globe.
- Monaco has the highest density of wealthy people with more than 32% of its residents being millionaires (one in every three persons).
- In 1793, Monaco became a principality under the protection of France, however, it regained its Independence in 1814.
- Monaco has a small defensive force comprising mostly of Coast Guard and Rescue (about 255 military men). Notwithstanding, it has a unique arrangement with France, which provides it with military defense.
- One of Monaco’s great strengths is its excellent healthcare system which entitles its residents and nationals to free medical care. However, only emergency medical care is free for foreign nationals who do not live or work there.
- Monaco is a popular tourist destination. It attracts visitors more than ten times its population each year. It is a desirous destination to enjoy and soak up the glamorous lifestyles of the elites, beautiful beaches, and iconic attractions.
Monaco, the Second-smallest Country on Earth Cont...
- Monaco has no individual income tax and so it attracts many wealthy residents.
- Because Monaco’s residents are from all over the world, it is a Melting Pot of cultures in its tiny size.
- Monaco has the world’s shortest national coastline at 3.83 km (2.38 m).
- Monaco is home to one of the world’s first protected marine habitats.
- Monegasque Olives are from the oldest olive tree found on the French Riviera in Monaco.
- Monaco is famous for its Belle époque architecture.
- Monaco has some of the highest property prices worldwide, yet its real estate market is flourishing.
- The Crepe Suzette originated in Monaco. According to legend, Assistant Chef Henri Carpentier of the Café de Paris had the idea to serve Crepes with orange juice, butter, sugar, and Grand Marnier to the future King of England, Edward VII. Inadvertently, they caught on fire, yet he still served them to the Prince who found them delicious and named them after his young guest Suzette.
- Monaco is a playground for the wealthy. There are two types of visitors to Monaco: the rich, who visit to “show off” and be seen amongst the elites, and the rest, to admire the affluent and their grand lifestyles. Yes, gawking at the rich is a tourist attraction. Besides, the rich who cross the border in luxury cars and yachts love the attention they get from other tourists.
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ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF MONACO
The Monaco locals or Monegasques (locals born in Monaco), are surprisingly very open, friendly, helpful, and humble. I had no problems relating to or asking them to take my photos. Many residents were open to meeting new people and engaging in conversation. Sometimes the wealthy can be somewhat snobbish but not the locals in Monaco. Interestingly, unless you reside there, you may be unable to differentiate between a Monegasque and those who relocated from other European countries like Italy and France.
Monegasques are down-to-earth, unpretentious people. As one local explained, they do not flaunt their wealth. I also met a young Ghanaian lady who lives and works there and expressed similar sentiments. However, contrarily, the affluent from neighbouring countries can be somewhat snobbish and love flaunting their wealth. Nonetheless, it also appears that all nationals are welcomed in Monaco and live peacefully.
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Moreover, its multicultural and multilingual population makes it even more unique, exciting, and appealing. Its nationals (Monegasques) account for about 20% of the population, and the remainder comprise; Italians 20%, French 28%, British 9%, Swiss 4%, and Russian 2%. It is factual that more than 128 nationalities reside in Monaco.
Nevertheless, all with whom I came into contact were pleasant. On the streets, the locals spoke freely and jovially as though we had previously met. Further, at a small local restaurant where I had lunch, the proprietress and one of the diners chatted with me almost throughout my entire meal. Some locals are fascinated by those who visit their country from distant countries and Monaco was no different. Ultimately, all residents enjoy a high standard of living, education, excellent healthcare, and public services.
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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Prices for everything in Monaco were more or less expensive. For example, one souvenir fridge magnet was 8 euros at almost all shops. However, with diligent search, the cheapest magnet I found cost 6 euros (usually $1.00 to $2.00 in most countries). On the other hand, the public bus was fairly inexpensive. To my amazement, although expensive I found food and water to be somewhat affordable at a couple of local restaurants and supermarkets.
In comparison to, for example, Switzerland, (one of the most expensive countries worldwide), food and transport were a bit cheaper in Monaco. Notwithstanding, everything else was more expensive, especially hotels, with room rates starting at a minimum of 100 euros per night. Furthermore, Monaco holds the title of the most exorbitant real estate prices worldwide. With an average price of $100,000. per square meter, and second to Singapore ($22,000. per square meter), another super-expensive country.
SAFETY AND SECURITY IN MONACO
Monaco offers unrivaled tranquility and security and is a super-safe country. Furthermore, it is one of the safest countries worldwide, more so because it has low crime rate. It is another one of those countries that should be on my list of the 50 safest countries around the world. Its police force is one of the largest per capita, (one police per 73 residents), so they can easily monitor and manage the country.
Safety standards are strict with nationwide surveillance and facial recognition apparatus. Moreover, similar to San Marino – the world’s oldest republic, crime, petty, or otherwise, seems almost nonexistent. Consequently, it is renowned for its exemplary safety, which was felt during my visit Therefore, I will not hesitate to highly recommend, it to all, especially female solo travellers.
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ABOUT MONACO'S CUISINE
Monaco cuisine also known as Monegasque cuisine is a Mediterranean cuisine. It is influenced by the traditional dishes of the surrounding regions of Italy and France (especially in Provence). Therefore, you can expect colourful, healthy, and flavourful dishes. Below are five of their traditional dishes you must try when visiting Monaco, the second-smallest country on earth.
TOP 5 FOODS IN MONACO YOU MUST TRY
- Daube provencale – a stew made with lamb or beef (most popular) braised, vegetables, garlic, and herbs. It emanated from the province of France surrounding Monaco.
- Socca – a thin, crispy pancake made with chickpea flour and olive oil (a popular street food).
- Barbagiuan/Barbajuan – a small, crispy, deep-fried, or baked pastry, filled with spinach, Swiss chard, ricotta cheese, and herbs. They usually serve it as an appetizer.
- Bouillabaisse (fish stew) – a classic French stew or broth made with variations of seafood and vegetables.
- Fougasse Monegasque– a classic Monegasque gastronomy and an iconic festive dish in Monaco. It is a pastry or bread flavoured with oranges and topped with almonds, raisins, nuts, etc. They then sprinkle it with sugared anise and even rum (there are many variations).
Pissaladiere is another version but the toppings are caramelized onions, anchovies and herbs, etc.
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TOP 5 MUST-DO/SEE SITES MONACO
- The Prince’s Palace – the official residence of the Prince of Monaco. This historical Palace offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Japanese Garden – just a few minutes from the Monte Carlo Casino is this small, peaceful garden with many beautiful plants, seating, and a artificial pond.
- Port Hercule De Monaco – is a large-scale yacht harbour with stunning views and breathtaking scenery. It is a must to get down to the harbour, take a relaxing stroll, and admire the luxurious yachts.
- Oceanographic Museum of Monaco – a museum dedicated to Marine Science. It features a fast collection of marine life, exhibitions, aquariums, a shark lagoon, and a Turtle Island.
- Monte Carlo Casino and Casino Square – (featured in the James Bond movies “Never Say Never Again” (1983) and “Golden Eye”(1995). This is the most iconic and opulently decorated casino in the world. It entices those who love gambling or just wish to admire its extravagance both inside and out. Remember, entry is free between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., after 2 p.m. it costs 20 euros.
SUMMARY
Monaco is a micro-state for visitors with financial means or for the curious-minded wanting a glimpse of the lifestyle of the elites. Despite its affluence, it has a non-pretentious feel and a laid-back vibe. Moreover, had I the financial means, it would be another one of those countries, I would love to relocate to permanently, not only for its beauty and serenity, but also its hospitality, safety, and ambiance. Understandably, it is not a long-stay destination for the budget traveller. However, a day trip will be sufficient to cover most of its interesting sites. For me, the trip to Monaco was more of a novelty and to complete my bucket list of having visited all countries in the European continent. It was definitely worth it and I will highly recommend and encourage others to visit Monaco, the second-smallest country on earth.
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