Monte Carlo

In terms of my list of places to see in the world, Monte Carlo never figured very high up. Despite being a dreadful snob and label queen, opulent, extravagant locations have never really appealed to me. That aside, when the offer came in to be whisked away for a five-star weekend, it would have been rude to refuse, don’t you think? A Little Introduction Tucked down the bottom of the Mediterranean lies the principality of Monaco. Despite being absolutely tiny, the place has its own government and is a recognised sovereign state. It’s famous for being a tax haven, home to the Grand Prix and the sort of place you live when you’re a multi-millionaire. ...

If I say Monte Carlo to you what image does it bring to mind? Do you picture Michael Schumacher and chums speeding around the hair-pin bends? Can you see yourself sipping champers with the in-crowd in the Hotel de Paris? Do your eyes turn green with thoughts of THAT harbour - the harbour where if you're yacht is worth less than £5million you would really feel VERY embarrassed. Or do you reminisce about "our Gracie", the beautiful Grace Kelly who fell to her death in the high high roads so near to the Palace that had become her home. No? Still not quite you? Well how about a night of high jinx with the high rollers in the most famous ...

Working as a computer programmer for a well known auction house, I am often called upon to provide IT support for auctions in various different countries, and have been lucky enough to visit Sydney and Melbourne in Australia, Geneva, Paris, and the focus of this opinion – Monte Carlo in Monaco. As you can imagine, I was more than happy to pack up my little travelling case and jet off to Monte Carlo for a weekend auction. My knowledge of the country was shamefully limited – I associated Monte Carlo with the grand prix, tennis, and extremely rich people. I was looking forward to seeing how the other half live, and enjoying a bit of shopping in the ...