Category: Monaco

The Impact on Wealthy Individuals

These changes will affect many wealthy individuals who previously benefited from the favorable tax treatment of the non-dom regime. Many might consider moving to jurisdictions offering more advantageous tax regimes. Increased attention will also be given to sophisticated tax planning to mitigate the impact of global taxation. This could involve restructuring financial portfolios, using tax-efficient investment vehicles, and exploring legal means to optimize tax liabilities.

Additionally, changes in investment strategies will be necessary to minimize exposure to UK taxes. Non-doms might diversify their investments globally, focusing on regions with low tax burdens or those benefiting from more favorable tax treaties with the UK.

Monaco: A Prime Destination

As non-doms seek new residency options, Monaco stands out as a favored destination. Known for its luxurious lifestyle and favorable tax policies, the principality has long been a preferred destination for wealthy individuals.

The Principality offers advantageous taxation that attracts many residents with the absence of personal income tax and exemption from capital gains tax, particularly appreciated by investors and entrepreneurs. Additionally, Monaco does not levy wealth tax, making it an attractive place for individuals with significant wealth. Lastly, inheritance and gift taxes are minimal, allowing for the transfer of wealth to heirs with reduced taxation.

Beyond these advantages, Monaco attracts wealthy individuals for many other reasons, including an exceptional quality of life thanks to its Mediterranean climate, luxurious amenities, and vibrant cultural life. Additionally, Monaco hosts prestigious events like the famous Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte-Carlo Yacht Show, drawing visitors from around the world. In terms of security, Monaco is one of the safest places in the world, making it a sought-after destination for families and individuals seeking tranquility. Its strategic location allows easy access to major European cities via Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, facilitating international travel.

Establishing Residency in Monaco

To become a resident of Monaco, several strict conditions must be met. First, one must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, proving that they can support themselves without external aid. Next, it is mandatory to secure housing, either through the purchase or rental of a property. Additionally, a substantial deposit, generally at least €500,000, must be made in a Monégasque bank to prove the applicant’s financial solidity. Finally, it is imperative to have a clean criminal record to be eligible for residency in the principality.

Despite its many advantages, settling in Monaco can present challenges. The cost of living is high, particularly concerning real estate, making the acquisition or rental of housing expensive. Their scarcity, due to the small size of the principality, further accentuates this difficulty. In this exclusive context, it is essential to be accompanied by an agency specializing in luxury real estate with perfect knowledge of the territory. Miells – Christie’s agency is by your side to realize your real estate purchase or rental projects with peace of mind.

In conclusion, the changes to the non-dom status in the UK represent a significant turning point in the country’s tax policy, affecting many wealthy individuals. As these individuals reassess their residency options, Monaco stands out significantly due to its favorable tax regime, high quality of life, and strategic location.

Construction and Technical Challenges

The construction of the Odeon Tower, which began in 2009, represented a significant technical challenge. One of the major obstacles was the tower’s stability on the rocky soil of the Rocher de Monaco. To overcome this challenge, deep foundations and special reinforcement techniques were implemented. The foundations were dug up to 40 meters deep into the rock, and ten basement levels were constructed to house 550 parking spaces.

The construction was also influenced by the Mediterranean climate, with sometimes extreme weather conditions requiring special attention during the assembly of materials. The use of high-performance concrete and sophisticated construction techniques was crucial to ensuring the safety and durability of the structure.

Luxury and Futurism

The Odeon Tower does not merely impress with its stature. It pushes the boundaries of luxury and comfort with its 259 units, including 177 state-owned apartments reserved for Monégasques and 82 high-end apartments, duplexes, and penthouses for wealthy international clientele.

The interior of the apartments, designed by the renowned decorator Alberto Pinto, embodies refinement and elegance. The spacious living areas are bathed in natural light thanks to generous bay windows, while the spacious terraces offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the Côte d’Azur. The bedrooms provide an oasis of peace and comfort, while the bathrooms and kitchens combine functionality and contemporary style, equipped with the most prestigious brands.

Cutting-edge home automation allows residents to control their environment at their fingertips, managing air conditioning, lighting, and security with astonishing ease. This blend of traditional luxury and technological innovation positions the Odeon Tower as a model of future living.

Luxurious Amenities

What truly sets the Odeon Tower apart are its amenities worthy of the finest palaces. A 24/7 concierge service caters to residents’ every desire. A valet is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and a private chauffeur service can be booked for trips within Monaco or beyond.

The 1,800 m² Sisley spa, spread over four floors, is a true haven of peace in the heart of the Principality. It includes an indoor pool, massage rooms, a jacuzzi, a hammam, a sauna, and an ultra-modern fitness room equipped with the latest Technogym machines. Residents can also enjoy a gourmet restaurant offering an exceptional culinary experience.

The Sky Penthouse: The Crown Jewel

The crowning jewel of this exceptional building is undoubtedly its Sky Penthouse, reputed to be the most expensive apartment in the world. Spanning 3,300 m² and multiple floors, this architectural gem includes six bedrooms and a multitude of luxurious amenities. Its centerpiece is undoubtedly its infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean, accessible from the second balcony via a dizzying slide. This penthouse also features its own fitness room, private spa, and cinema room, embodying the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity.

Sustainability and Innovation

Despite its luxurious appearance, the Odeon Tower also incorporates ecological and sustainable features. The building is equipped with energy and water management systems to minimize its environmental impact, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability even in a luxury context.

In conclusion, the Odeon Tower is much more than a mere skyscraper; it is a reflection of the prestige and innovation that characterize Monaco. Its complex construction, elegant design, and luxurious amenities make it an icon of modern luxury. It testifies to the Principality’s ability to reinvent itself while remaining true to its image of luxury and exclusivity.

As Monaco continues to develop and face the challenges of the 21st century, the Odeon Tower stands as a beacon, guiding the way to a future where luxury, technology, and sustainability coexist harmoniously. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply curious to discover the wonders of the modern world, the Odeon Tower is a shining example of what luxury can be in the 21st century, captivating the imagination of those who seek to understand the pinnacle of refinement and opulence.

Enjoy Christmas, with the gourmet breaks of the Rock! The most beautiful hotel buildings will place Christmas under the sign of gastronomy. Rediscover the magic of the mountains, around a refined and gourmet snack, in the heart of the patio of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, redecorated in a chalet for the occasion. You can also enjoy delicious moments at the Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo, with its Christmas snacks: a pastry buffet and cooking workshops for little ones will be on the menu.

MONACO’S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE: A REDUCED SIZE, FOR THE PLEASURE OF THE LITTLE ONES

What would Christmas be without its thousand sparkling lights? Since the end of November, some emblematic places such as the Place of Arms, already glitter in the colours of Christmas. And the festivities will continue throughout the month of December, for the pleasure of the eyes.

From 3 December, the Monaco Sea Bathing Company will in turn be illuminated, followed by the main streets and squares of the city. In total, no less than nineteen scenographies and several hundred motifs will animate the city, in the streets and on the buildings. Enjoy this show during a family outing, to be done on foot or by car.

A beautiful, festive and original way to rediscover the Principality’s exceptional architectural heritage, its life and its districts.

Although the festive season of 2020 may not have the splendour of previous years, everything has been planned so that young and old alike can celebrate Christmas in small groups and get together as a family. And nothing will prevent Father Christmas from joining in the festivities, to the delight of the children.

AN UNUSUAL MARKET

With its 2 km² for 38,000 residents, its ideal geographical location, and its dense economic fabric, the Principality has a seemingly unfailing appeal.

Even in times of crisis.

At a time when international travel is restricted, mathematically limiting the number of foreigners settling in the Principality, it is Monegasque residents who continue to invest in stone.

At the end of spring 2020, the transaction volume was almost on par with that of 2019 over the same period, with a total of 160 transactions completed.

THE RIGHT TIME TO INVEST IN MONACO?

As a result of the crisis, we have seen a certain stabilisation of prices per square metre, after an impressive 71% increase in 10 years. This is a rare situation that should be taken advantage of.

In addition, it is sometimes possible to make relatively good deals. Most Monegasque real estate actors have noticed that some owners have agreed to accept lower offers in the face of the uncertainty linked to the end of the health crisis.

But prices are not the only good reason to invest in real estate in Monaco.

The fall of form of the global economy has led to some instability in stock market values. Generally speaking, real estate is thus positioning itself as a refuge asset. This is especially true in Monaco. In addition to the capital gains that one can earn, the tax benefits linked to being a resident in the Principality are perceived as a real advantage for those who anticipate potential tax increases due to the health crisis.

Following a stellar start to the 19-20 season, melophiles in Monaco are eagerly awaiting a host of spellbinding new performances from the Philharmonic Orchestra in 2020. The world-renowned Kazuki Yamada is once again leading the overall proceedings as Principal Conductor and Artistic Director, alongside a host of critically acclaimed international talent. With concerts and operas held in Monaco at the magnificent Auditorium Rainier III in Monte Carlo and the Salle des Princes in Grimaldi Forum closeby, music aficionados of all ages will be enthralled and delighted. Below are some of the shows that you really must not miss.

KAZUKI YAMADA PRESENTS BEETHOVEN & MORE

LA BOHEME

When it comes to opera, Monaco certainly does not disappoint. Running from 24th-31st January 2020, ‘La Boheme’ by Giacomo Puccini will be performed in collaboration with the Philharmonic orchestra at Place du Casino in Monte Carlo. With a refreshingly relatable story focused on the human experience of emotions and love, in particular, La Boheme is a masterclass in simple but moving storytelling.

LAUREL ET HARDY EN FOLIE!

Another of the first concerts of the new season is aimed at audiences young and old. A screening of classic silent films from the 1920s will be accompanied by musical improvisation from Paul Lay. You can expect belly laughs as Laurel and Hardy cause chaos within an orchestra, and even try to sell Christmas trees at the wrong time of year. The concert takes place on Sunday 9th February 2020 at Auditorium Rainier III.

KAZUKI YAMADA’S BEETHOVEN 2020

An event that needs little introduction – Kazuki Yamada conducts a selection of captivating compositions from one of the all-time greats. Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No.1 and Piano Concertos 1 and 2 are reimagined for a contemporary audience. This concert presents you with a perfect opportunity to revisit a favourite composer whilst introducing new generations to a celebrated work of genius. Beethoven 2020 also features Krystian Zimerman on piano, and is scheduled for Friday 12th June 2020 at Auditorium Rainier III.

MONTE CARLO SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL

Established in 1970, the Monte Carlo Arts Festival is a five-week celebration of many artistic mediums. Expect to be treated to dramatic, musical and dance-orientated masterpieces. In particular, the opening concert from the Philharmonic Orchestra is not one to be missed. It will focus on French music at the beginning of the 19th century and takes inspiration from the beauty of nature. The Monte Carlo Spring Arts Festival will begin on Friday 13th March, at the Principaute de Monaco.

WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO AT THE MONTE CARLO GASTRONOMY FAIR?

THE FAIR ITSELF

Wandering around this Monaco gastronomy fair is a true feast for the senses, with over 100 producers of European artisan treats displaying delicious food and drink, ready for visitors to taste and find out more. Everything at the fair has been specially selected to delight, with a mix of authentic drinks including wines, Champagnes, Cognac, Armagnac and liqueurs, and food spanning salmon, foie gras, seafood, truffles, caviar, chocolates, sweets, cheeses, cured meats, organic products and jams. There will also be everything you need to dress your table beautifully, including unique kitchen utensils, and original gift ideas for those ‘hard-to-buy-for’ friends and family members.

MAESTRO CHEF COMPETITION

The Monte Carlo Gastronomy Fair is also where we get to crown Monaco’s best amateur chef! The quarter-finals of the competition kick off on Friday, where the eight chefs will be tasked with cooking an incredible meal, judged by a panel of professionals. Saturday sees two stages of the semi-final, while on Sunday a grand finale between the remaining two candidates brings the ultimate showdown. Judges of the grand finale will include Didier Aniès, Executive Chef at Fairmont TM; Gianluca Strobino, Deputy Chef at Hotel de Paris; Laurent Colin, Executive Chef at Meridian Beach Plaza; Jean-Philippe Gallot, winner of the 2018 Maestro Chef competition and Frédéric Ramos, Executive Chef at Novotel Monaco.

The recipes for the meals will only be revealed to the competitors on the day, and each candidate will be given a basket of fresh produce and a limited time to cook up a storm.

Now in its 10th year, MICS Monaco brings together operators and suppliers of clubs, bars, and restaurants, to showcase everything from prestigious alcohol brands to optimised management systems. The MICS Monaco also includes interactive master-classes and a mouthwatering food court.

With such a huge expo dedicated to Monaco’s clubbing scene right on our doorstep, the Monaco International Clubbing Show has got us thinking about the hottest nightclubs in Monaco. So, get ready to party the night away; here’s the definitive insider’s guide to the night-time hot spots to see and be seen in Monaco.

FIVE CLUBS TO VISIT DURING THE MICS MONACO

JIMMY’Z MONTE CARLO

One of Monaco’s most iconic nightspots, Jimmy’z is the place to see and be seen when the sun sets below the horizon, especially during the MICS Monaco. The club attracts an elite guest list of VIPs and celebrities, who party the night away with some of the world’s top DJs and methuselahs of Champagne. The club underwent a complete renovation in 2017, creating an extravagant new space to party the night away, including Jimmy’z’s world-famous dance floor, Japanese garden, a floating bar on the club’s lagoon, and open-air tables with fabulous sea views. The HQ of Monaco’s nightlife, this is the place to party the night away.

BUDDHA BAR

Located in an old concert hall, east meets west at this extravagantly decorated lounge club that features a breath-taking seven-metre high ceiling and a giant statue of a buddha. Other features include two open-air terraces, a restaurant featuring a delectable range of Asian delights, alongside caviar, Kobe steaks, and lobster, in addition to a roster of world-class DJs spinning the latest club hits. With its extravagant decor, sumptuous cuisine, and fabulous atmosphere, Buddha Bar hits all the senses in true Monegasque style.  Once you’ve explored everything on offer at MICS Monaco, this spot is the place to be!

TWIGA MONTE CARLO

After a busy day at the MICS Monaco, in-the-know attendees head to this chic restaurant, lounge and club. At Twiga’s restaurant feast on Italian fare, including handmade pasta, meat, and the freshest offerings from the Mediterranean Sea. Then, head to the lounge and shisha bar, an elegant spot to relax in. Facing the Mediterranean Sea, here you can enjoy an enviable collection of handcrafted cocktails and a choice of sake. This is the place to rub shoulders with a chic international clientele; on the turntables, expect a roster of some of the world’s most coveted DJs.

MONACO ARCHITECTURE: THE HIGHLIGHTS

HISTORIC BUILDINGS

The constant evolution of architectural styles and designs means that you can find an array of beautiful buildings in Monaco, with styles spanning Belle Epoque from the turn of the 19th Century to more recent Art Deco work.  Discover three of our favourites below.

The Victoria

A beautiful example of Art Deco architecture in Monaco, the Victoria comprises 150 apartments in a truly unique space. Design features such as the cylindrical glass corner rotundas, typical of the architect Kevork Arsenian in his work on the Côte d’Azur, provide a source of fascination for those interested in historic homes.

Le Mirabeau

Le Mirabeau is 81 metres of iconic modernist architecture, transformed from a luxury hotel into a glamorous place of residence in 2010. The exterior remains in typical 1970s style, while the inside has been updated to form the ultimate 21st Century home. Residents can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean sea and the rugged mountains from their large, spacious balconies.

Villa de Rome

A stunning building replicating the designs of the Belle Époque era, the Villa de Rome is a vision in pretty pinks and luscious green foliage. This Versace-style palace is located in the very heart of Monaco between Carre d’Or and Port of Monaco – the perfect location for modern-day royalty!

MONACO CLASSIC WEEK 2019: THE HIGHLIGHTS

CELEBRATING THE AMERICAN-MONEGASQUE FRIENDSHIP

The theme for the Monaco Classic Week 2019 was the American Era – a celebration of US sailing traditions, showcasing American-built yachts from 1851 to 1973 while paying tribute to the special American-Monegasque friendship.

More than 100 classic yachts, including seven of the big schooners from the International Schooner Association, could be seen in the YCM Marina.  Some 800 sailors, owners and skippers from 26 countries put on a show that revived a bygone era, when American sailing and motor boats dominated the seas for speed.

A highlight was the Schooner Cup Series Big Boat race, in which a dozen schooners competed.  It was won by Elena of London, a 2009 replica of the 1910 original.

Other races included Metric Class races, Classic yacht races and 12-foot dinghy races.  Special events included a manoeuvrability challenge for motorboats, similar to those performed in 1904, and a picnic at sea for motorboats. On Saturday the sea shimmered with old-world beauty, with two Elegance parades of classic yachts and motorboats.

The Monaco Classic Week 2019 Trophy was awarded to Puritan, a 1930 schooner, and the 2019 La Belle Classe Monaco Restoration Prize went to the Swedish gaff Ester, beautifully restored after 75 years on the seabed.

ICONIC APPEARANCES

Making special appearances this year:

• – The YCM’s emblematic flagship Tuiga, celebrating her 110th anniversary this year
• – La Spina, a masterpiece of Italian design, which represented the 12M class
• – Atlantic 2010, a replica of the 1903 three-mast schooner which set the best time for an Atlantic crossing in 1905
• – The 79m SS Delphine, the largest steam-boat still sailing, built in 1921.  Having caught fire and sunk in 1926, she was restored in New York and went on to serve in the US navy, even hosting three world leaders, Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill, as they negotiated part of the 1945 Yalta Agreement

ART DE VIVRE LA MER

In keeping with the Club’s Art de Vivre la Mer philosophy, the Chef’s Competition was open to crew members and chefs.  Each was presented with a set number of ingredients from which they had to produce a range of dishes, presenting them to a jury of top chefs later that evening.
Widely regarded as the most elegant yacht show in the world, Monaco Classic Week 2019 certainly lived up to its reputation, and gave spectators the chance to admire these lovingly restored yachts from another era, and to appreciate their timeless elegance.

More information here.

(Photo Credits: Studio Borlenghi)

WHAT IS THE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL?

If you haven’t seen a Cirque du Soleil performance, you are in for a treat. The troupe was started in Montreal in 1984 by two former street performers, Guy Laliberté and Gilles Ste-Croix, and its theatrical, character-driven approach helped define it as the contemporary circus that it remains today – notably without the use of performing animals.

Having expanded rapidly through the 1990s and 2000s, Cirque du Soleil have now performed 19 distinct shows in over 270 cities on almost every continent, including several permanent shows in Las Vegas to over 9,000 spectators a night. It is believed that their shows have been seen by some 90 million worldwide.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT?

Expect the bizarre and the surreal – these are highly theatrical performances with thrilling acrobatics, gravity-defying feats and stunning use of music. Also expect high-energy, incredible choreography, stunning costumes and make-up, extraordinary sets and backdrops, and global themes portrayed in a playful and whimsical manner.

One of its current shows, TOTEM tells the story of mankind’s evolution, with characters evolving on a stage that evokes a giant turtle, the symbol of origin for many ancient civilizations. Playing exclusively at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, KÀ tells of a heroic journey of love and conflict, set within a dynamic theatrical landscape.

If these current shows are anything to go by, Cirque du Soleil Monaco audiences are in for an extraordinary treat, and these exclusive performances are set to be the highlight of the summer season.

AVANT-GARDE INFLUENCES

In the second part of the Dalí exhibition, Monaco, curator Montse Aguer Teixidor, Director of the Dalí Museums, has highlighted the influence of European avant-garde artistic movements. Among them are Dalí’s first Cubism-influenced paintings, in which he used a more subdued palette of sienna, olive, black and white. Interestingly, the subjects of the paintings are not completely deconstructed and traditional artistic techniques such as perspective are visible in paintings such as Pierrot Playing the Guitar. Works from the artist’s foray into abstraction in 1928 are also displayed, revealing influences by artists such as Joan Miró and Jean Arp. Although Dalí may have agreed at the time with Miró’s declaration “I want to murder painting!”, it was not long before he turned to Surrealism, a movement led by André Breton.

SURREALISM

It was at this point, in 1929, that Dalí met Gala, the wife of the French poet Paul Éluard, one of the founders of the Surrealist movement. Gala left Éluard for Dalí, with whom she spent the rest of her life. Their personal and artistic relationship was to have a profound influence on Dalí’s work.

Around this time, Dalí began implementing a paranoiac-critical method. He described it as “a spontaneous method of irrational knowledge based on the critical and systematic objectivity of the associations and interpretations of delirious phenomena”.

Put more simply, he allowed his mind to visualise images in the work he was creating and then incorporated them. This resulted in a double or multiple image, which could be interpreted in different ways.

“The Surrealist Sanctuary section” of the Dalí exhibition in Monaco focus on this period,  which coincided with the emergence of the artist’s eccentric side. Several photos exhibited testify to this, including one that shows him giving a lecture wearing a diver’s suit.

FROM THE FRENCH RIVIERA TO THE INFLUENCE OF THE OLD MASTERS

“Dalí: A History of Painting” also explores the artist’s creative versatility, showing his set and costume designs and architecture. A small section recounts Dalí and Gala’s four-month stay at Coco Chanel’s villa in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, next to Monaco, in 1938. As the Second World War approached, Dalí painted troubling works such as The Enigma of Hitler and Imperial Violets, which are among the exhibits.

The war drove Dalí and Gala to the US, where they lived from 1940 to 1948. As well as working with Alfred Hitchcock on the dream sequences of Spellbound, and Walt Disney for Destino, Dalí, under Gala’s influence, starting drawing inspiration from Renaissance artists with paintings like Ledo Atomica.

Other parts of the exhibition focus on the influence of American art in the 1960s and 1970s, and the artist’s three-dimensional painting. The section “Essentially Dalí” examines his last works, which he painted in the early 1980s. Gala is omnipresent in his return to classical references. On her death in 1982, a tragic vision of the world is expressed in works such as Bed and Two Bedside Tables Ferociously Attacking a Cello.

With this Salvador Dali exhibition, Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum gives visitors the chance to admire the legacy of a great artist who absorbed influences from the history of art and made his own revered place in it.

Dalí: A History of Painting ends on 8 September 2019.

A CHALLENGING VENUE

The arena is set up on the same harbourside area that serves as the pit lane during the Monaco Grand Prix. Its size makes it challenging for both the course designer and the riders.

Top international course designer Frank Rothenberger, who has designed the Monaco course for the second consecutive year, points out that the arenas at the Hamburg and Estoril legs of the Longines Global Champions Tour measure 90 by 140 metres and 90 by 125 metres respectively. In Monaco,  the jumping arena is approximately 25 by 70 metres.

“It’s like designing a course for an indoor show,” he says. “That’s difficult after a week of designing in a huge arena.”

A Global Champions League Team competition takes place the day before the Global Champions Tour Grand Prix. In the second round, the top 25 riders qualify individually for the Global Champions Tour competition, which consists of a single-round plus a jump-off. All riders start with zero points and can change horses between the two competitions.

PRIZES

At the Longines Global Champions Tour Monaco event, riders in the top-level CSI 5* championship will be picking up points that will contribute to their overall classification in the series. A prize pot of 950,000 euros is divided between the top 18 athletes, with the overall winner receiving 31% of it. In mid-June, after the eighth leg of the series in Stockholm,  German Olympic bronze medallist Daniel Deusser was in first place in the standings.

The final competition of the three days is the CSI 5* Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco, for which prize money of 300,000 euros awaits the winner.

The Longines Global Champions Tour Monaco event is an opportunity to witness the amazing rapport between riders, their horses and skills that have been honed over many years of dedication and perseverance. The event also counts as a qualifier for the European Championships in Rotterdam in August 2019 and for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, so expect edge-of-your-seat action.

The Longines Global Champions Tour Monaco event will take place from 27 to 29 June.

ACADEMIC OPTIONS

IUM accepts students from all over the world: according to the latest data, undergraduates and graduates of 80 different nationalities are currently studying at the university. Apart from its Bachelor programmes, the IUM proposes five different MBA and DBA programmes (Marketing of Luxury Goods and Services, International Management, Brand Management, Finance, and Sports Management).

A MEMORABLE CELEBRATION

During celebratory refreshments in the lobby of the Grimaldi forum, everyone agreed that the ceremony had been emotional, dignified and memorable. A highlight of the evening for everyone was the elated students going on stage and throwing their caps in the air.

The festivities later continued at the famous Monaco real estate jewel, Jimmy’z night club. But that’s another story…

HERACLES PALAIS

Heracles Palais is situated on the Port and offers without doubt one of the best Monaco Grand Prix terrace experiences on a number of different floors as well as the pièce de résistance  – the roof terrace. From here you will be able to see the start of the race as well as the Sainte Devote turn, the exit from the tunnel and the Rascasse bend. What’s more, you might even see H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco as this is where the Royal Box is traditionally located.

CARAVELLE

From the luxurious Caravelle Suites, visitors can see almost 80 per cent of the total track – which just goes to show how tight the circuit is. Tickets for this prime viewing spot are hard to come by as Caravelle is one of the most sought-after Monaco F1 terraces.

THE PANORAMA

Another hugely popular Monaco Grand Prix terrace is located in The Panorama building, on the corner of Sainte-Devote. While much of the residence is hired out privately, a number of terraces are open to the public.

LA MARÉE

This restaurant which is located at the bottom of Avenue d’Ostende is a wonderful alternative to a private terrace, offering visitors the chance to dine on first-class cuisine while watching the race unfold all around them.

THE HOTEL FAIRMONT

Last but by no means least is the famous Hotel Fairmont which offers a bird’s eye view of the ‘Fairmont’ hairpin bend located right outside the hotel. There is also an inviting swimming pool and Nikki Beach lounge in which to really let your hair down when the race finishes and the partying begins.

WHO IS CHARLES LECLERC?

Those with only a passing interest in motorsport may not yet be familiar with 21-year-old Leclerc. Although, with a full season in the division behind him and a reputation as one of the sport’s hottest prospects, this may be about to change. Leclerc enjoyed an impressive debut season with Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team in 2018. He became only the second Monégasque to score points in Formula One, and the first since 1950. The points came courtesy of a sixth-placed finish in Azerbaijan, after which other F1 teams started to sit up and take notice of his talent.

In fact, such is the potential of Leclerc that in September 2018, Scuderia Ferrari announced it would be hiring him to replace Kimi Räikkönen for the 2019 season. And as those who are familiar with Ferrari know, the racing behemoth rarely puts its unequivocal trust in relatively untested youngsters. So far this season, Leclerc has rewarded Ferrari’s faith. He currently sits fifth in the standings on 47 points, and achieved his first poll position qualification in the Bahrain Grand Prix. Were it not for his engine dropping a cylinder, it is likely he would have won the race instead of eventually coming in third.

In 2018, Charles Leclerc made no secret of the fact that he was racing in honour of his friend and mentor, the late French racing driver Jules Bianchi. This will only serve as further motivation for Leclerc to secure a hometown victory at the end of the month.

Despite an unfortunate crash during qualification in Azerbaijan this year, Leclerc has finished no lower than fifth so far this season. Around the upcoming race in Monaco there is a sense of a driver whose skills are maturing and whose form is developing. Combine this with a hometown advantage and there is just a hint of destiny surrounding the events that will unfold at the end of May. Can Charles Leclerc do it? The fans in Monaco certainly believe he can.

MONACO E-PRIX 2019 – CHAMPIONS AND CHALLENGERS

On both previous occasions, the Monaco e-Prix has been won by Sebastien Buemi. The Switzerland native is the most successful driver in Formula E’s history, and the overall winner of the 2015-16 championship. However, as the cars and the technology that powers them continues to evolve, competition is fiercer than ever and victory cannot be guaranteed.

One manufacturer that is guaranteed to draw significant local support is Monegasque-based Venturi Formula E Team, known simply as Venturi. While the brand may not be a household name to the same degree as Renault and Nissan, Venturi has a history of automotive manufacturing that stretches back to 1984. In 2004 it developed the Venturi Fetish, which was the world’s first sports car powered solely by electricity.

Despite having a hometown advantage, Venturi is yet to win its first Monaco e-Prix. This year however, the team has added another string to its bow in the form of eleven-time Formula One race winner Felipe Massa joining on a three-year deal. He will race alongside seven time Macau World Cup winner Edoardo Mortara. Needless to say, with the wealth of world-class experience that Massa is able to bring to his role, expectations among the home fans have never been higher. In March, the Venturi team celebrated its first race win with Mortara finishing in first place in Hong Kong.

Those who have never experienced a Formula E race can expect to enjoy all of the thrills and spills typically associated with Formula 1 in a context that’s more environmentally friendly and easier on the ears. And where better to get your first taste of motor racing’s future than where history has so often been made? Visitors to Monaco can expect sunshine, a shimmering coastline and a wealth of glitz and glamour. Don’t miss out – your motoring pilgrimage to the Monaco e-Prix 2019 will be one to remember!

L’Annonciade, close to the Tour Odéon in the La Rousse-Saint Roman district, also stands at 111 metres. It opened its doors in 1980. La Rousse-Saint Roman properties are close to a public elevator that takes residents down to the beaches in Larvotto.

Parc Saint-Roman is the third tallest building. This 35-floor building rises 108 metres and was completed two years after L’Annonciade.  Chateau Perigord I and II, completed in 1972 and 1973 respectively, rise to 93 metres. Luxury apartments in these portered buildings in La Rousse-Saint Roman are highly sought after.

In 2011, the slender 90-metre-tall towers and geometric facades of the Résidence Le Simona made their appearance in the Principality. Le Simona is the ninth tallest building in Monaco, a position it shares with Le Roccabella in the Larvotto district.

Like the Tour Odeon, Le Simona has brought Monaco into a new era with its combination of innovative modern architecture and a luxurious living environment.

PROJECTS: A GLOBAL IMPACT

To date, the Foundation has funded over 420 projects, awarding 51 million euros in grants. Their scope is wide-ranging: from fighting deforestation to developing marine protected areas; renewable energies and energy efficient technology to managing water supplies; studying the effects of climate change to conserving endangered species.

One area of focus has been the fight against plastic pollution in the oceans, which is having a devastating effect on marine life. With partners Surfrider Foundation Europe, Tara Expeditions Foundation, the Mava Foundation and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Foundation is part of the Beyond Plastic Med (BeMed) Task Force. BeMed’s goal is to tackle plastic pollution at its source, changing production and consumption habits to prevent plastics ending up in the ocean. They’ve been funding micro-initiatives in several countries around the Mediterranean aimed at educating and mobilising communities and taking direct action to keep plastics out of the sea.

The Foundation also holds annual events like Monaco Ocean Week and the Monte-Carlo Gala for the Ocean to raise awareness and funds to support its work.

MONACO: A PRINCIPLED PRINCIPALITY

For residents or those looking to buy property, Monaco has many well-known attractions. You’re unlikely though to see Environmental Action in any ‘Top ten reasons to live in Monaco’ list. But it’s clear that people are increasingly conscious of how their lifestyles impact the environment and it’s important to know that the place you choose to live is taking responsibility. With the projects and initiatives supported by the Foundation, and the commitment and passion of its founder, Prince Albert, Monaco may well surprise many with the action it’s taking.

A VENUE TO MATCH MONACO’S IMAGE

Interestingly, the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters was never always played in such revered settings. The event dates back to 1897 when it was held in a another location called the Monaco Lawn Tennis, and included both men and women in open, doubles and handicap categories. The tournament was moved several times thereafter to behind the Hotel de Paris, La Condamine, and even the roof of a garage called Auto-Riviera in Beausoleil in the 1920s!

American George Butler who had made his fortune selling cigarettes was a key instigator in ensuring that the tournament achieved its international glory.  A tennis fanatic himself, Mr Butler campaigned for a long time with the Société des Bains de Mer for the construction of a large-scale tennis facility fitting of the the Principality’s image. His wish finally came true with the inauguration of the Monte-Carlo Country Club on 27 February, 1928.

Having celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2006, The Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters is now an event on the agenda of tennis enthusiasts around the world. A favourite for players and fans alike due to its magnificent location and its long tradition of champions.

The 2019 edition of the tournament will be held from 13-21 April 2019

Miells & Partners have a wide choice of properties for sale in the area surrounding the Monte-Carlo Country Club.

PRINCESS CHARLENE’S HUMANITARIAN WORK

Princess Charlene has taken an active interest in a number of humanitarian causes. In addition to being a Global Ambassador for the Special Olympics, she has been the Honorary President of Ladies Lunch Monte Carlo since 2009 and an associate of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. She also supports the charitable works of her husband.

A cause very close to her heart is the Princess Charlene Foundation, which is dedicated to children. It was established in 2012 to raise public awareness about the dangers of water and to teach children how to swim.  The World Health Organization has estimated that 360,000 deaths are caused by drowning and more than half of drownings are people under 25 years of age. Children under the age of five are the most affected and even in non-fatal incidents, water can still cause serious damage, including severe neurological effects.

HSH Princess Charlene has enlisted the help of high-profile talent to support the organisation. Monegasque F1 driver Charles Leclerc is one of the most recent ambassadors for the Princess Charlene Foundation. Other ambassadors include former F1 driver Jenson Button, tennis champion Novak Djokovic, swimmer Yannick Agnel and diver Greg Louganis.

If you would like information about any of our Monaco-Ville properties near the Prince’s Palace, contact our team.

A SAFE INVESTMENT

The number and value of transactions in Monaco’s real estate market are continuing their upward curve and demand for property is increasing. Ultra high net worth individuals are driving the demand, which greatly exceeds supply.

For these reasons, it is highly unlikely that property in Monaco’s competitive market will ever be subject to the dramatic declines in value observed in many other countries.

In addition, fluctuating interest rates barely affect the market, as most property transactions in Monaco take place without bank loans.

THE BUYING PROCESS

Anyone can buy a property in Monaco, regardless of nationality. In fact, owning or renting property in the Principality is key to obtaining a resident’s permit.

Miells & Partners has long established its credibility and expertise on the Monaco real estate market. We can advise you on the locations that best suit your needs, identify the best market opportunities and organise visits.

When you’ve decided on the property that’s right for you, we will accompany you through the buying process and put you in touch with one of Monaco’s three notaries. A notary is a public officer who acts on behalf of the State and authenticates documents with his/her seal and signature. Transactions in Monaco must be authenticated by a notary based in the Principality.

PORTOFINO

Heading west from Monaco is the delightful and romantic port of Portofino, on the Italian Riviera. Romantics will adore this picturesque port, surrounded by quaint restaurants and bars, with a number of boutique hotels within walking distance of the sea. Portofino is extremely popular especially in the summer months so if you are planning to surprise your partner with a romantic weekend away from Monaco, do make sure you reserve accommodation in advance – the Belmond Hotel Splendido is the place to stay!

ILE DE PORQUEROLLES

Ile de Porquerolles, or simply Porquerolles, is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful destinations in the South of France, and an easy distance from Monaco for a magical and memorable weekend. The island is the largest of three islands situated off the peninsula of Hyeres, a 2-hour drive from Monaco’s luxury real estate. Ferry boats leave for la Tour Fondue; on the islands, Le Mas du Langoustiers is the perfect weekend venue for those looking for something extra special for a weekend à deux.

MOUGINS

Slightly nearer to Monaco is the beautiful hilltop town of Mougins which was the home to Pablo Picasso for the last 15 years of his life. The famous artist chose this pretty spot as the location for his final workshop, which enjoyed incredible views over the Bay of Cannes. Romantics looking for a very special place to stay from Monaco should try out the elegant Le Mas Candille, a five-star hotel and spa located in the heart of the medieval village. The village boasts a number of excellent art galleries and restaurants and is a delight just waiting to be discovered on a romantic weekend from Monaco.