Monte Carlo, Monaco Destination Guide
Total Page:16
File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb
Monte Carlo, Monaco Destination Guide Overview of Monte Carlo Monte-Carlo, unofficial capital of glamorous and lavish Monaco, is the epitome of wealth and glamour. The capital is a blend of towering high rise buildings and narrow windy roads, boasting the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino, luxury hotels, elegant nightclubs and restaurants, views of the sparkling Mediterranean and of course, the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. Established in 1866, Monte-Carlo was named in honour of Prince Charles III and is the richest of the country's four quarters. For years, Monte-Carlo has been the playground of the rich and famous, from Hollywood starlets to royalty from all corners of the globe. It is also one of Europe's foremost holiday resorts, but certainly not for the humble backpacker. The city has several attractions, such as the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium, the Monaco Cathedral and the Prince's Palace, several gardens, and other attractions centred on the country's famous Royal Family, such as an exhibition of HSH Prince of Monaco's private collection of classic cars. There are many interesting diversions for the adventurous, such as catamaran trips, watersports, yachting and the Azur Express tourist train that links up the city's attractions, accompanied by multi-lingual commentary. Worth exploring is the Old Town, with its attractive City Hall, and of course when one is bored of sightseeing, the best diversion (and the cheapest) is merely to settle down with a fancy cocktail and people-watch in this fascinating and glamorous part of the world. Key Facts Language: The official language of Monaco is French, but English and Italian, as well as Mongasque and Occitan (local languages) are also spoken. Passport/Visa: The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA passengers to Monaco must hold proof of repatriation - such as return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR), divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change or hotels. Bank hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday and are closed on weekends. The Credit Foncier de Monacois open daily. Travellers cheques (US$ are the preferred currency) are not widely accepted and should be exchanged at banks or a bureaux de change. All major credit cards are widely accepted. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50 Hz. European round 2-pin plugs are used. Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Page 1/12 Monte Carlo, Monaco Destination Guide Travel to Monte Carlo Climate for Monte Carlo Monte-Carlo, like Monaco, has a spectacular Mediterranean climate, boasting roughly 300 days of sunshine a year. July and August are the hottest months, while spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as temperatures are milder. Health Notes when travelling to Monaco In general, no immunizations are necessary for travel to Monaco and there are no major health risks. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide health cover in Monaco. It's advisable to carry enough personal medication with accompanying doctor's letter. Medical insurance is recommended. Safety Notes when travelling to Monaco Trips to Monaco are usually trouble-free, but the usual, sensible precautions such as being vigilant after dark and taking care of valuables apply. Customs in Monaco Swimsuits, bare chests, and bare feet are restricted to beaches and swimming areas only in Monaco. Appropriate dress is required for visits to religious buildings, with Monaco being largely Roman Catholic. Jacket and tie are required at the Casino. Duty Free in Monaco Currency must be declared on arrival and passengers are allowed 400 cigarettes, one litre of liquor and a reasonable amount of perfume for personal use. Doing Business in Monaco Business in Monaco is usually conducted formally and suits and ties are the norm. Greetings include a handshake and business cards are exchanged. French is the official language of Monaco, although some English is spoken. It's best to ascertain beforehand which language will be used. Business hours are usually 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Communication in Monaco The international access code for Monaco is +377. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Mobile phone coverage is excellent and roaming agreements exist with most international mobile companies (it is best to check with phone providers). Internet cafes are common. Tipping in Monaco Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge in Monaco, but tipping extra for excellent service is appreciated. Porters and valets usually expect a tip. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers, as they are self-employed. Passport/Visa Note The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA passengers to Monaco must hold proof of repatriation - such as return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Page 2/12 Monte Carlo, Monaco Destination Guide Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Entry requirements for UK nationals: British passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar, or an identity card issued by Gibraltar, must be valid on arrival. British passports with any other endorsement must be valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. A visa is not required for passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar, and 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and those with identity cards issued by Gibraltar. Those holding British passports with any other endorsement do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required. Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond their arrival in Monaco. A visa is required. Page 3/12 Monte Carlo, Monaco Destination Guide Getting around in Monte Carlo, Monaco Monte-Carlo has an efficient public transport system, with five bus lines. An excellent way to save money is to buy the Daily Tourist Pass, which at a flat rate, allows unlimited travel all day. A series of elevators also operate to transport visitors and residents up and down the steep streets of the city. Perhaps the best way to explore the city, however, is on foot. Page 4/12 Monte Carlo, Monaco Destination Guide Attractions in Monte Carlo, Monaco Monte-Carlo offers a lot more than just striking natural beauty, it also features some historical and modern attractions sure to keep visitors of all persuasions happy. With a Mediterranean climate, Monte-Carlo is pleasant all year round, though winters can sometimes be a little chilly, and summers very crowded.