New for Monaco 2024

 

Exciting developments are on the horizon for Monaco in the coming year, ranging from the unveiling of Amazónico and a sophisticated Japanese dining experience to the anticipated relaunch of Moods and a rejuvenation of Hôtel de Paris' wine cellars.

 

Deputy Chairman Stéphane Valeri of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer shared insights at a press gathering held in the Crystal Bar of Hôtel Hermitage, reflecting on a successful 2023 and unveiling a series of compelling projects slated by Monaco's prominent employer.

 

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Monsieur Valeri announced the debut of a new restaurant here within the current Crystal Bar. This forthcoming gastronomic destination, curated by the renowned multi-Michelin-starred Chef Yannick Alléno, will introduce an intimate, fine-dining Japanese experience to Monaco's esteemed Hôtel Hermitage.

Featuring Chef Alléno's winning formula, the restaurant will bring two Michelin-starred sushi Chef Yasunari Okazaki from L'Abysse in Paris to recreate their award-winning Japanese cuisine. The opening is anticipated in July, with plans for a new location for the Crystal Bar underway.

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Amazónico, a long-awaited addition situated above the redesigned Café de Paris, will open its doors on April 4th. With its South American energy and a menu inspired by Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine, the restaurant aims to captivate locals and tourists alike, leveraging its prime location overlooking Casino Square.

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By possibly late autumn, the completion of the Monte-Carlo redevelopment will introduce seven luxury boutiques near Café de Paris, including prestigious brands like Tag Heuer and Tiffany & Co.

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The reopening of the Michelin-starred Blue Bay restaurant in mid-February at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort is highly anticipated, showcasing a complete makeover under the direction of chef Marcel Ravin.

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October 17, 2024, marks the triumphant return of Moods, an iconic Monaco nightspot, to its original Monte-Carlo location. Offering live music, and comedy acts, the new ‘Moods' will feature finger-food catering by the acclaimed Michelin-starred Chef Marcel Ravin.

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Monaco's hidden gem, the extensive wine cellars beneath Hôtel de Paris, will undergo renovation and transform into a public museum. Open for guided tours and exceptional dinners in collaboration with leading wine brands, these cellars house over 350,000 bottles of the finest wines.

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Sporting Monte-Carlo, the epicenter of Monaco's major concerts, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. With a history of hosting entertainment legends from Frank Sinatra to Elton John, the venue is set for grand celebrations, with anticipation building for SBM's plans for this iconic landmark. Celebration announcements for the venue will hopefully be made soon.

Lou Queernaval 2024

Anchored in the rich heritage of carnival festivities in Nice, Lou Queernaval, the inaugural gay carnival in France, has become a beloved event that embraces inclusivity and unity for all.

For those that may not know, "Lou" translates to "the" in Nissart, the regional dialect of Nice and Queernaval is self-explanatory.

Lou Queernaval stands out as a unique spectacle, featuring a dazzling array of drag queens and other various talented artists primarily from the region, and together, they convey a powerful universal message of love, sharing, and kindness.

The event is filled with an array of sights and sounds, a testament to the commitment of over 150 volunteer carnival workers, with many wearing extraordinary costumes, setting the stage for an exceptional evening centered around this year's theme of the King of Pop Culture.

Since its inception in 2015, Lou Queernaval has garnered attention from spectators across France and around the globe. This one-of-a-kind event is free and offered by the Nice LGBTQIA+ community, in collaboration with the City of Nice and the Nice Côte d'Azur Metropolis.

Open to all, Lou Queernaval has rapidly evolved into a cherished tradition within the broader framework of the Nice Carnival that has been a part of the city’s history for the past 150+ years.

Lou Queernaval also serves as the kickoff to a weekend filled with sensational festivities as LGBTQ establishments hold various themed events and are filled with locals mingling with international visitors.

This year, the Queernaval celebration is scheduled for February 23, from 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm ending with a party on the parade route.

Book early for your free tickets here: Lou Queernaval

Photo credits: Guillaume Eymard

French Riviera Real Estate Options Eighteen

As it is the height of winter and everyone is hitting the ski slopes, for January I thought I would showcase some beautiful chalets for sale in Megève France.

Megève is a picturesque and upscale ski resort town located in the French Alps. Situated in the Haute-Savoie region of southeastern France, Megève is renowned for its charm, traditional architecture, and world-class skiing facilities. Here are some key aspects of Megève:

1. Skiing and Winter Sports: Megève is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The town offers a vast ski area with a variety of slopes suitable for skiers of all levels. The Mont d'Arbois and Rochebrune sectors are part of the Evasion Mont-Blanc ski area, providing access to a network of interconnected slopes.

2. Charming Village: Megève boasts a charming and well-preserved village center with narrow cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and a central square. The town has managed to maintain its authentic alpine character, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a cozy and idyllic atmosphere.

3. Luxury and Hospitality: Megève is known for its luxurious amenities, high-end hotels, and gourmet restaurants. The town has a reputation for providing a sophisticated and upscale experience for visitors. The accommodations range from boutique hotels to luxurious chalets, contributing to the town's exclusive and refined ambiance.

4. Cultural and Culinary Scene: In addition to its outdoor activities, Megève offers a vibrant cultural and culinary scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, and boutique shops, and enjoy fine dining in restaurants that showcase both local Savoyard specialties and international cuisine.

5. Year-round Destination: While Megève is primarily known as a winter destination, it also attracts visitors during the summer months. The alpine landscapes offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. The town hosts events and festivals throughout the year, making it a destination with year-round appeal.

Overall, Megève is a destination that combines alpine charm, luxury, and outdoor recreation, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking an elegant and memorable mountain experience.

Megève Village
Price: 3,800,000 EUR

Renovated chalet on the market near the center of Megeve Village.

Living Area: 200 sqm (sold furnished)
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 5
Plot Area: 650 sqm

Description:

First floor: large entrance hall, checkroom, guest toilet, living room, dining room, kitchen with access to L-shaped balcony and large terrace.

1st floor: master bedroom with bathroom (bath and shower), second bedroom with shower room. Each bedroom has access to a south-facing balcony.

Garden level: two bedrooms, each with its shower room, a dormitory with its shower room, and a laundry room with a technical area.

Exterior: 3 parking spaces, a large L-shaped balcony facing south and west, a terrace adjoining the kitchen, a 15m2 mazot, and a two-level garden. Views of the Rochebrune, Mont Charvin, Jaillet, and Aravis mountains.

Mont d’Arbois
Price: 7,490,000 EUR

Stunning property on the market in Mont d’Arbois.

Description:

Living Area: 450 sqm
Plot Area: 1,530 sqm

Layout: 5 bedrooms (including a primary bedroom with an office on the entire 1st floor), 5 bathrooms, and a studio for staff.

Interior amenities: gym, sauna, steam room, massage room, cinema room, ski room, and a garage for 7 vehicles.

Exterior amenities: a first covered terrace with a dining area, a second terrace with a south-facing dining area, a landscaped garden, and a small traditional Alpine chalet (mazot). 180 view on the Aiguilles Croches range, Mont d’Arbois and Rochebrune.

Mont d’Arbois
Price Upon Application

Living Area: 600 sqm
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 7
Plot Area: 1000 sqm

This majestic chalet will be located on the Mont d’Arbois in Megeve, next to both the Mont d’Arbois golf course and the Four Seasons Hotel. The chalet will offer exceptional views of the surrounding mountains and also benefit from being ski-in and ski-out given its proximity to the ski slopes.

Built over 4 floors, this south-facing 6 bedroom chalet will offer approx. 600 sq.m of living space on a total plot size of approx. 1000 sq.m.

The chalet will also benefit from a large fireplace, an expansive terrace and balconies, a hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, indoor swimming pool, fitness area, massage room, a personal studio, home cinema room, and a ski room.

***This new development is due to be completed by the summer of 2025.

For more details on these or any other property options available, connect with us at Experience The French Riviera.

Ramdam Bar

In various cities worldwide, where numerous LGBTQ+ establishments are shutting down, there's a distinct trend in the French Riviera. Instead of closures, new businesses are not only emerging but thriving.

Ramdam Bar in Nice stands out as one of these remarkable places. It goes beyond being just a bar; it embraces the concept of a vibrant, well-designed space that not only serves as a local showcase for artists but also attracts talent from across the country.

The venue also serves as a hub for a variety exhibitions, providing a platform for musicians and hosting meetings for various associations to engage in discussions on diverse topics.

 

Situated near the Port of Nice at 3 rue Lascaris, Ramdam Bar opened its doors in late November 2023, instantly gaining popularity with a diverse crowd.

Beyond the popular themed nights, such as DiscoBoy and Danceteria, Ramdam Bar aims to create an inclusive and entertaining atmosphere that caters to individual preferences. It's a safe space where you can bring your friends, or if you arrive alone, you'll quickly make new acquaintances.

Check the highlighted links for opening days and times.

Come enjoy the fun!

Photos courtesy of Ramdam Bar