Monaco Prepares For A Fun 2011

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by: Osborne
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Word Count: 742
Date: Thu, 23 Sep 2010 Time: 6:54 AM
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The next twelve months might be a nervous time for some travel destinations, waiting to see if tourists return as the economy picks up, Monaco has a year ahead that will make other places green with envy.

Monaco, known for her jet set lifestyle, has had a measured approach to the turmoil in the world economy over the last couple of years. While not immune to what's going on, the principality is certainly resilient. On the tourist front for example there was an increase in attendance this year for the Monte Carlo Masters tennis tournament. The increase in attendance comes when many sporting venues globally are experiencing drops in attendance.

Monaco's measured approach is in the form of businesses offering additional amenities to traditional products and services. The worst thing Monaco could do is appear as 'Monaco on Sale.' No big price reductions are happening in Monaco. This would take away from the unique character of the region. It would be akin to a French Riviera restaurant of exquisite cuisine offering fast food as a takeaway.

Monaco still means tourists paying significant euros to enjoy splendour. It still has an air of affluence and aura of extravagance. While many tourist regions are seeing fewer middle class holidaymakers, Monaco still has the rich, and even the somewhat well to do whom they can count on.

This doesn't mean they're taking things for granted though. To remain competitive, Monaco businesses still promote premium service and famous events to keep the cash rolling in. Their selling point is world class events in a luxurious setting that one should experience at least once.

A prime example is the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. Every May, ultra-sophisticated Grand Prix racecars zip through, around, and up and down the byways of Monaco. Celebrities, including Hollywood stars, supermodels and sports figures attend the Monaco Grand Prix, often popping down for a couple of days from the nearby Cannes Film Festival.

Formula 1 cars speed along the stunning Monaco harbour area and through the tunnel as part of the course. Global television audiences see before them the quaint principality and its impressive Monte Carlo casino.

As the rich and famous cavort, holidaymakers around the globe get a sense of the special character of Monaco. This results in those vital tourist euros pouring into Monaco each year and for example the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix will see tens of thousands visit.

Essentially, this luxurious aura is what helps Monaco weather tough economic times. Many tourist regions are cookie-cutter examples of other tourist areas. Think of some tropical locales that offer beaches and oceanfront. Then think of a host of others that offer the same thing.

Located between the South of France and Italy, Monaco is different. Monaco has its fine architecture and rich House of Grimaldi royal tradition. People know the story of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly, the Princess of Monaco. And 2011 sees his son Prince Albert marry Charlene Wittstock, in what will probably be the wedding of the year.

The Principality of Monaco is a constitutional monarchy. Prince Albert is the head of state, the Sovereign Prince of Monaco. The executive branch consists of a Minister of State. This individual oversees a four-member Council of Government.

In this regal setting reside top businessmen and women, movie stars, F1 drivers and other famous people. Of course, Monaco has a reputation for her tax haven status and most banks ensure they are represented at one of the Monaco banks.

Rich with history, Monaco, in addition to the Monte Carlo casino has the Place du Palais. This attraction offers a splendid panoramic view overlooking the Port and Monte Carlo. Every day in front of the palace's main entrance, visitors can watch the grand changing of the guard ceremony.

Another fine attraction in Monaco is the Oceanographic Museum & Aquarium. Inaugurated in 1910 by its founder, Prince Albert I, this facility took 11 years to build. Monaco also boasts its Monte Carlo Opera, Monte Carlo Ballet and The Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, Monaco is home to AS Monaco, its football team that plays in the French Soccer League.

If you want to visit somewhere that has a buzz in 2011, head on down to Monaco for a few days!

About the Author

The Columbus Hotel Monaco and other hotels are reviewed at monacoproperty.net and can be booked with Thomas Cook Holidays