- Destinations
- Europe
- Monaco
Monaco
An independent city-state west of the French Côte d'Azur, the
Principality of Monaco is the playground of Europe's celebrities
and idle rich. They are drawn by the sun, glamorous lifestyle and,
most importantly, tax-free income, not to mention being in close
proximity to one of the world's most publicised and famous Royal
families. There are more millionaires per capita in this, the
world's most densely populated country, than anywhere else, but
true 'Monagasques' make up only about 15 percent of the population
in a country that is jam-packed with opulence, wealth and the
world's most expensive real estate.
As anyone who has seen the legendary Grand Prix will know,
Monaco and its unofficial capital Monte-Carlo (the country doesn't
actually have a capital) aren't as good looking as its sleek
residents and visitors; most of the buildings are unattractive
monstrosities, and the tiered urban jungle is cut off from the
shoreline by sweeping roads: the roads on which Formula 1 racing
cars screech during the annual Grand Prix in the second week of May
each year.
Monaco does, however, have a suitably glamorous history:
disguised as a Franciscan monk, Francois Grimaldi reclaimed a
fortress on the Rock of Monaco from a rival Italian bloc in 1297,
giving the country its name, which is derived from the word monk.
The country soon became a major port and prospered, and when Lord
Honore II took power in 1604, he declared himself a Prince - a
tradition that remains today. Later, Monaco was annexed by France,
but the Grimaldis soon regained their power and in the late 1800s,
in order to restore wealth to the country, Prince Charles III
created the Societe des Bains de Mer, consisting of a casino, some
hotels and a theatre, from which sprung today's glittering
Monte-Carlo area.
If it's open spaces you are seeking, go elsewhere (apart from a
few ornate parks there is little to enjoy); likewise, if your
wallet is light, stay away, unless you want to try your luck at
filling it in Monaco's landmark Roccoco Casino. However, if you
want see and be seen, and rub cloaks with royalty, then Monaco is
the place to be.
Information & Facts
Business
Business in Monaco is usually conducted formally and suits and
ties are the norm. Greetings are made with a handshake and business
cards can be exchanged. French is the official language of Monaco,
though some English is spoken; it is best to ascertain beforehand
which language will be used. Business hours are usually 9am to 12pm
and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Climate
Monaco enjoys a mild, pleasant Mediterranean climate, averaging
about 300 days of sunshine a year. Summer temperatures are usually
in the 80-84º F (26-29ºC) range, while winter temperatures range
between 48ºF and 58ºF (8-14ºC). July and August are the hottest
months, while spring and autumn are perfect times to travel to
Monaco as temperatures are at their mildest. The winter months of
January and February tend to be the coldest and also receive the
most rainfall.
Communications
The international access code for Monaco is +377. The outgoing
code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the
United Kingdom). Mobile phone coverage is excellent and roaming
agreements exist with most international mobile companies (it is
best to check with phone providers). Internet cafes are common.
Customs
Swimsuits, bare chests and bare feet are restricted to beaches
and swimming areas only in Monaco. Appropriate dress is required
for visits to religious buildings (Monaco is largely Roman
Catholic). Jacket and tie are required at the Casino.
Duty Free
Currency must be declared on arrival and passengers are allowed
400 cigarettes, one litre of liquor and a reasonable amount of
perfume for personal use.
Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. European round
2-pin plugs are used.
Getting Around
The best way to explore Monaco is on foot, but the Monégasque
Bus Company (
Companie des Autobus de Monaco) operates six lines that
run every 10 minutes from 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday. Strip cards
for 4-8 journeys can be bought at a discounted rate.
Health
In general, no immunizations are necessary for travel to Monaco
and there are no major health risks. The European Health Insurance
Card (EHIC) does not provide health cover in Monaco. It is advised
to carry enough personal medication with accompanying doctor's
letter. Medical insurance is recommended.
Language
The official language of Monaco is French, but English
and Italian, as well as Mongasque and Occitan (local languages) are
also spoken.
Money
The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents.
Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change or hotels. Bank
hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday and
are closed on weekends. The
Credit Foncier de Monacois open daily. Travellers cheques
(US$ are the preferred currency) are not widely accepted and should
be exchanged at banks or a bureaux de change. All major credit
cards are widely accepted.
Passport Visa
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the
following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy,
Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands,
Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and
Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa
that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to
travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned
countries. Additionally, non-EEA passengers to Monaco must hold
proof of repatriation - such as return/onward tickets, the
necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and
sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country.
NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six
months validity remaining after your intended date of departure
from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply
different rules to those stated by travel agents and official
sources.
Safety
Trips to Monaco are usually trouble-free, but the usual,
sensible precautions such as being vigilant after dark and taking
care of valuables apply.
Tipping
Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge in Monaco, but
tipping extra for excellent service is appreciated. Porters/valets
usually expect a tip. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers, as
they are self-employed.