Monaco

Flight.co.uk Overview

Passengers taking flights to Monaco, the tiny independent Principality on the French Côte d'Azur, come to see how the other half live. Celebrity spotting is a rewarding past-time in this famous enclave which is a playground for the rich and famous. Flights to Monaco actually land outside the principality at the Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport about 15 miles away. The wealthy can take a helicopter flight from there into the Principality's busy heliport, but most settle for a bus or taxi. Numerous major airlines serve the Nice Airport, so discount flights to Monaco are available, particularly out of season. The busiest time of year is when the legendary Formula I Grand Prix takes place (the second week of May each year), so it is wise to book flights to Monaco well in advance to catch this renowned event. The Grand Prix track follows a route through the lower section of the town of Monte-Carlo, passing its glamorous waterfront where millionaire's yachts are tethered, and the famous Roccoco casino complex. The urban jungle extends in tiers up a steep hillside, but the pink palace of Monaco's much-publicised Royal Family stands on a promontory overlooking the harbour. Monaco flights offer a glimpse of opulence and style that is unique and unrivalled.

Overview

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 has 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 its 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.

Local Customs

Swimsuits, bare chests and bare feet are restricted to beaches and swimming areas only. Appropriate dress is required for visits to religious buildings (Monaco is largely Roman Catholic). Jacket and tie are required at the Casino.

Business

Business is usually conducted formally, with suits and tie 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.

Health

In general, no immunizations are necessary for travel to Monaco and there are no major health risks. It is advised to carry enough personal medication with accompanying doctor's letter. Medical insurance is recommended.

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.

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 just over every 10 minutes from 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday. Strip cards for 4-8 journeys can be bought at a discounted rate.

Duty Free

Currency must be declared on arrival, but passengers are allowed 400 cigarettes, 1 litre of liquor and a reasonable amount of perfume for personal use.

Tipping

Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge, 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.

Language

The official language of Monaco is French, but English and Italian, as well as Monégasque and Occitan (local languages) are also spoken.

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 roving agreements exist with most international mobile companies (it is best to check with phone providers). Internet cafes are common.

Time Zone

GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. European round 2-pin plugs are used.

Money

The unit of currency is the Euro, 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, although the Credit Foncier de Monaco near the Casino is open daily from 12pm to 11pm including holidays. Travellers cheques (US$ are the preferred currency) are not widely accepted and should be exchanged at banks or bureaux de change. All major credit cards are widely accepted