Monaco: What You Should Know before You Go, Monaco, Monaco

I have spent countless holidays in Monaco over the last 30 years and know my way around quite well. Of course, I didn’t want to deprive my travel buddy Bernie of this special place, so we stopped off for a few nights in the world of millionaires.

Monaco, the tiny principality on the Côte d’Azur, is famous for its casino, the princely family, the Formula 1 Grand Prix, luxury yachts and much more. It is only 2 square kilometres in size, making it the second smallest state after the Vatican. This is where the rich and beautiful meet, and Monaco is the epitome of luxury for many. Get a taste of the sophisticated atmosphere during a visit and marvel at the yachts, sports cars and designer shops that can rarely be admired in such density. But Monaco has much more to offer.

Monaco was founded in 1215. In 1297, the Grimaldi family took over the rule and maintained it with a few interruptions until today. In 1861, the state became utterly sovereign, and after having earned its income from ship customs duties, the newly opened casino became the primary source of income in 1863. By 1869, profits were so high that direct taxes were abolished. The first luxury hotels were also built at this time. The marriage between Prince Rainier and the actress Grace Kelly in 1956 brought Monaco another economic boom, which continues to this day. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).