Monaco …

 

We are crossing the border into Monaco well known for its high DSC_0691 (Medium)stakes gambling, the Grand Prix and the setting for the James Bond movie, Casino Royale. The lavish grounds leading up to Monaco’s casino included several pieces of art, statues and more than its share of fountains and palm trees.  We’ve arrived!

You wouldn’t know the economy is suffering after DSC_0705 (Medium)visiting this place! The Porsche, Alpha Romeo, and Mercedes Benz were a dime a dozen. In fact one of the taxis we saw was a Mercedes Benz AMG!

What’s more impressive is that we also saw several Bentleys, Rolls Royce, Aston Martin and Masarati! DSC_0713 (Medium)There were several security guards in the area who seemed okay with Austin taking all these pictures! When Austin saw all these luxury cars gleaming in front of the Monte Carlo Casino he said it was better than any car show he’s ever been to! 

We visited the Place du Palais which is lined with a battery of cannons which were cast during Louis XIVs reign.  We missed the daily changing of the guard or the DSC_0489 (Medium)Carabiniers. We did see lots of guards on foot patrol. Besides looking good in their full military dress, they are responsible for keeping the sovereign secure and they escort Prince Albert to events.

 

Coincidentally from the palace vantage point, royalty and visitors alike enjoy a panoramic view DSC_0510 (Medium)of the city as well as the yachts and cruise ships that are docked in the port. Apparently you can see Italy from here too!

 

We came across this bronze statue dedicated to the winner of the1st Grand Prix de Monaco. The DSC_0785 (Medium)race was held in April 1929 and the winning car, a Bugatti 35 B, was driven by William Grover. This statue was in the middle of a raised boulevard. Austin hopped out of the car and jumped up there to make sure we got a good picture of it! 

 

Monte Carlo was impeccably clean and DSC_0494 (Medium) every house was in pristine condition, loaded with character and well lit up to show off all their fine details!

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We felt really safe walking around and it almost felt like we were part of a fairy tale. We kept seeing these red and white diamond flags which we assumed were the Coat of Arms of the principality.

 

Before leaving Monaco we ate dinner at this small restaurant. Most restaurants have DSC_0574 (Medium)their daily menu written up on a chalkboard at their front entry. Here we had salade mixte, marguerite pizza, crepe croque, ice tea and lattes. Everything tasted fresh and it was likely all made from scratch!

It may be hard to top this destination. We’ll see what tomorrow brings when we head to Italy!

Comments

  1. louiserunFebruary 17, 2010 at 6:38 PM

    Prince Rainier is deceased. Your guide book needs updating! All this food sounds good.

    ReplyDelete

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