Haven’t been to Monaco yet? Then you’re missing out.
There are numerous reasons to visit the principality, including the Grand Prix (usually held in May), Michelin-star restaurants, great casinos, amazing luxury shopping possibilities, and beaches straight from the pages of a travel magazine. However, another that stands out is the fact that the country’s kind of straight from a fairy-tale.
Think about it, sure lots of places have had monarchies, but how many of them still have a resident prince and princess, and a larger-than-life palace you can visit?
The Grimaldi family has occupied the Prince’s Palace since 1297, and the palace itself was built in 1191. In the summer there are concerts held in the courtyard, while the lavish residence is open for daily tours April through October.
In the same vein, fans of the late American actress Grace Kelly and her romantic royal love story, can follow the twenty-five signposts found across the country, which effectively allow travelers to walk in the same steps Princess Grace did. The journey includes the palace where she lived for over two decades, the cathedral where she was married and buried, and the rose garden constructed to honor her memory.
For something a little different and off the beaten path, check out Le Jardin Exotique. Representing plants from the dry zones of Mexico, Central and South America, and the Arabian Peninsula, this hillside garden of cactuses and Dr Seuss plants was open to the public in 1933. For less than fifteen dollars, you can not only visit the garden, but the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, and the Cave of the Observatory—a grotto where prehistoric animal bones have been found.
From weird plants to world-class aquariums—enter the halls of the Oceanographic Museum. It sits in the side of the mythical Rock of Monaco, and has since 1910. In recent times travelers experience turtle island, shark lagoon, the fish nursery, touch pool, exhibition hall, and of course, the Oceanomania room—dedicated to “oddballs” of the marine variety.
Cap your trip off with a visit to the National Museum, spread across two locations: Villa Sauber, dedicated to art and territory, and Villa Paloma, highlighting art and performance.
The gastronomy of Provence is unlike any other in France, given the unique geography and history of the region, its close link to the Mediterranean Sea and the Greek, Spanish and Italian influences. The cuisine of this region relies heavily on lean Mediterranean recipes, with olives, fresh vegetables, fish and seafood, herbs and other spices. It is a sensual and organic cuisine, leaning heavily on more healthy recipes. Being located along the Mediterranean coast, fish and shellfish are present in many recipes. Unlike other parts of France meats are not used as much, although some traditional recipes do call for sheep and beef. The preferred cheese of Provence is goat cheese.
As with any part of the world, the French Provence region boasts its own authentic recipes and specialties. One of the region’s most popular dishes is Bouillabaise, a delicious seafood, vegetables and herbs stew that is prepared with olives, anchovies, capers, olive oil and lemon juice. There are many other traditional recipes in Provence and it would take forever to describe all the aromas and delicacies of this region. The sweets of Provence are worth a special mention, with North African influences and a lot of unbelievable tastes. Although not as famous as other regions, the wine of Provence is loved by many people. This is one of the oldest wine producing regions of Europe and this can be felt through the hundreds of small wineries offering rich and hearty wines.