Day 45 - Monte Carlo, Monaco
Monaco is the second smallest country in the world. It also has only one city, Monte Carlo, with France on all of its sides. It is less than one square mile in size, but has a population of 35,000. Monaco is a sovereign state. It is also one of the richest countries in the world. Monte Carlo is known for its rich lifestyle, we saw 100's of yachts, some with helicopters, Ferrari', Maserati's and Bentley's which are parked everywhere on the street. There were flowers and flags flying all over the city to celebrate the marriage of Prince Albert and Princess Charlotte that had taken place in the last week. Our tour guide Sylvie drove us around the route of the Monaco Grand Prix, where the Formula one race takes place through the city streets every year. All the men on the tour where in heaven. There are twenty staring marks painted on the street and the checked finish line is painted on the street. The Race goes by the famous Casino Monte Carlo. Today we toured with our Friends, Arnold and Ros, Garry and Joanne, Ray and Paula. We then went up to the old part of the city where the Castle, Palace and Cathedral are located. From this area we had wonderful views of the harbor.
Our next stop was Eze (Eagle's Nest) which is an amazing city on top of a hill. Eze has beautiful windings alleys and wonderful views. We had cappuccino and tea break at the top of the hill. What a life. There are not too many locals still living in the village (although I saw laundry drying on a balcony) as it is a difficult climb the stair up and very little parking. As a tourist it was worth the climb.
Then we were off to Nice, the fifth largest city in France. It is close to the Italian border and its buildings are mostly in the Italian style. This is because until 1860 it belonged to Italy. Nice is on the French Rivera and it is lovely. Many painters lived out there last years in the region including Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall to name a few, because of the wonderful climate and there is so much to paint. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the market and Mediterranean Sea front.
Our last stop was St. Paul.( St. Paul De Vence) is a well preserved walled village of 16th and 17th century buildings which is mostly occupied by artisan workshops, art shops and elegant boutiques. We wandered the many little alleys as we progressed up the hill and then walked down inside the wall. We enjoyed our time in St Paul. Marc Chagall is buried in the cemetery here. It was time to head back to the ship. We had a wonderful day with a great guide.
Next Port Barcelona, Spain is tomorrow.
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