money Keyword
Monaco
The French riviera is home to some of the richest people in Europe and the most elite of those live in Monaco. Apart from being the 2nd smallest country in the world Monaco is also a money haven, operating with zero personal income tax. It has its own Monarchy, headed by Prince Albert II. The amount of money getting splashed around here though is ludicrous. Massive yachts line the harbour with topiary gardens adorning their decks. Caviar features on menus at 350 euro a pop. Shorts, in particular the pair I was wandering the streets in, retail for 100euro, making the $30aus (~15euro) I paid for them seem a bargin! To live in Monanco one is required to “apply” for residency. The application carries a non-refundable fee of $1,000,000 if the application is accepted or not.
Monaco also plays host to the Monaco Grandprix, a car race that closes the streets. I didn’t manage to time my trip to be in Monaco for the race, but evidence of the event was still present. Bollards were still being removed grandstands still loomed and skidmarks on corners stood in harsh relief on the bitumen.
At night Monaco transforms. Buildings light up and terraces fill with socialites enjoying the scene. The Casino comes alive and festivals dot the calendar.
All in all Monaco is a wonderful place, especially if you have a little walking around cash you don’t mind parting with. Just a quick tip to Australia’s: wear all the Billabong, Ripcurl, Roxy and Quicksilver you can. They run PREMIUM prices in Monaco, making those pair of shorts you bought on special at 15 bucks look like their worth a million dollars. I had a great time in Monaco, heading there a total of three times, once with some busabout friends, once with Mum and Nonno, and finally at night with a few of the relo’s.
Oh, and if you’re wondering… yup: that’s my Ferrari f430. Trust me.