Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Monaco Grand Prix Confirmed Through 2031

 

Formula 1 has officially extended its agreement with the Monaco Grand Prix, securing the iconic race on the F1 calendar through 2031. This new deal builds on the previous contract set to expire in 2025, adding six more years to Monaco's celebrated presence in the sport.

The Monaco Grand Prix, a cornerstone of the F1 World Championship since its debut in 1950, has been a permanent fixture on the calendar since 1955.

Next year, the event will mark its 75th anniversary from May 23-25, before transitioning to a new permanent date in the first weekend of June starting in 2026.


Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, shared his excitement about the contract renewal, stating, "I am thrilled that Formula One will continue to race in Monaco until 2031. The streets of Monaco are unique and an integral part of Formula One. This Grand Prix is a race that every driver dreams of competing in."

The future of the Monaco Grand Prix had been uncertain due to challenges surrounding the event's sustainability. These included the crowded race calendar, which features 24 races this year, as well as financial concerns. Monaco's distinctive urban setting limits audience capacity, and the city’s financial contribution to hosting the race is relatively modest, although it does attract an international audience well before and after the Grand Prix  with events surrounding the race happening both day and night.

Friday, November 15, 2024

Celebrating Monaco's National Day

 

Monaco’s iconic red and white colors are more prominent than ever as the Principality prepares for its National Day celebrations. This year, the festive decorations extend to new locations, spreading patriotic pride across the Principality.
 
The streets are being transformed for the annual event on November 19th. Spearheaded by the Events Division of the Municipal Technical Services, dedicated teams have been working since November 4th to adorn the city with pavilions, banners, and Monegasque flags. The effort ensures that Monaco’s national colors shine brightly in every corner of the Principality.

Each year, the Mairie expands its efforts to bring the celebrations to all districts. In 2024, this includes an impressive display of approximately 600 pennants, 550 flags, and 90 pavilions across 150 installations. This large-scale operation requires both day and night crews: day teams handle flag installations, while night crews manage the more complex setups.


Traditionally, Monaco’s National Day aligns with the feast day of the reigning Prince's namesake saint. However, Prince Albert II chose to honor his late father, Prince Rainier III, by keeping the celebration on November 19th, marking a meaningful tribute to his legacy.

While the main Monaco National Day celebrations take place on November 19, some exciting events have been planned for a day earlier. Here’s what’s planned so you can make the most of the festivities: 

Monday, November 18 

          20:00 - Drone Light Show over Port of Monaco. Watch as 800 drones illuminate the night sky from a secure, sound-buffered viewing area along Albert I quay. 

          21:00 - Nicoletta & Gospel Choir Concert. Enjoy the powerful voice of Nicoletta accompanied by her gospel choir in an uplifting concert, open to audiences aged 10 and above. 

Tuesday, November 19

           09:00 - National Day at Condamine Market. The Marché de la Condamine comes alive with tastings of local specialties and a vibrant atmosphere. Festivities continue into the evening, with live musical entertainment starting at 19:30. 

           11:40 - Military Parade at Place du Palais. Don’t miss the impressive military parade, a National Day highlight worth attending. 

           12:00 - Giant Fish Display at Place d’Armes. Marvel at the spectacular fish display and indulge in delicious food—no reservations required. 

           18:00 - Liane Foly Concert at Espace Léo Ferré. Wrap up the celebrations with a captivating performance by the renowned Liane Foly, as she sings her greatest hits in an unforgettable evening.  
 
Monaco National Day is a time for everyone to come together and celebrate the Principality with joy and pride.

Thursday, November 14, 2024

A Triumph for the 10th Club Vivanova Luxury Lifestyle Charity Gala

 

Last Saturday, the 10th Club Vivanova Luxury Lifestyle Charity Gala Dinner was held at the Fairmont Monte Carlo, raising €35,000 plus private donations for Fight Aids Monaco and Ecoute Cancer Réconfort.

 

This year's event was marked by the presence and patronage of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, who attended to support her charities and her daughter Pauline Ducruet, who hosted a fashion show with her ALTER Design team, benefiting the gala’s charities.


Club Vivanova welcomed over 250 guests to the Grand Salon of the Fairmont Monte Carlo, partnering with the International University of Monaco, whose students also attended. The black-tie evening began with a Champagne cocktail, followed by a four-course gourmet dinner, a charity auction hosted by Bradley Mitton, and a performance by the Alexandra Miller Quintet. A midnight after-party with Champagne and dancing concluded the night.

 

Celebrating a decade of success, the gala has now raised over €400,000 for charity, combining dynamic networking with support for meaningful causes.

Images courtesy of Club Vivanova and Philip Andrukhovich Photography

Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Nice: World's Top City Break Destination

 

Nice has just been crowned the most popular city break destination in the world.
 
According to Titan Travel's "Social Travel Index", Nice takes the crown of the most popular urban destination in the world. Yes, you read correctly: the town along the sea has become the absolute star of city breaks. Perhaps it’s the warm blue sea, pastel facades of Vieux Nice, the historic Belle Epoque architecture, the plethora of restaurants and shopping in what has always been known as the cultural hub of the Cote d’Azur.

Titan Travel scoured TikTok trends, Instagram trends and Google searches to reveal which cities are rocking the globe the most, and Nice received a score of 8.42 out of 10. 
Approximately 22 minutes by train to Monaco and about another 15 minutes to the Italian border, Nice has literally crushed the competition on TikTok, stealing the spotlight from London and Paris, who are fighting for the places just behind on the podium. Here, the air is charged with a salty sea breeze, the southern light bursts everywhere, making everything more vivid: and the palm trees sway gently in this laid back city making it well worth exploring.

Come experience what you’ve been missing!