A spate of reopenings are marking the Monaco social scene, giving residents and visitors a reminder of what summer in the Principality is all about.
Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) this week announced its latest summer openings, providing the public with some amazing options for local nightlife as well as fine dining experiences.
On the heels of the season launch on 21st June with Swing Monte-Carlo, new openings are cropping up all over town. Around Casino Square, there is the Mada Lounge pop-up in the Jardins des Boulingrins, just a short distance from another summer favourite, the pop-up Crystal Lounge located in the Excelsior Garden at the Hermitage Hotel, which will be open until 12th September.
From Thursday 1st July, there will be some much anticipated reopenings of iconic locales to add to the fun.
Photo of Chef Marcel Ravin, La table le Marcel at Blue Bay, by SBM
Marcel Ravin will be back at the Blue Bay at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort offering his Michelin-star fare from Wednesday through Saturday evenings for dinner. Ravin used his time off to revisit his Caribbean roots and revamp his menu, blending the best of the islands with the best of his adopted country.
Party people can rejoice with the reopening of La Rascasse, as well. Perched on one of the most famous corners of the Monaco Grand Prix, the bar is an all-time favourite, known for its festive atmosphere and friendly staff. Happy Hour runs from 6pm to 8pm and the bar has a DJ spinning all the biggest hits every Tuesday to Saturday night.
Diners can also take a ride on the Train Bleu, the emblematic restaurant in the Casino, where every Thursday to Sunday Chef Thierry Saez-Manzanares prepares elegant dishes in an equally elegant setting.
Photo of Le Train Bleu at the Casino de Monte-Carlo by SBM
From 4th July, the Buddha Bar will open its doors once more, offering visitors a taste of the East. The lounge is open from 6pm and dinner is served from 7pm six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday. Chef Eric Guillemaud’s Asian-influenced dishes are the perfect complement to the signature musical vibes the Buddha Bar is known for.
The only wild card yet to be determined is the reopening of Jimmy’z. As of now, there is no word as to when the iconic nightclub will be able to welcome guests again, as the health situation dictates the schedule.
With all the choices and all the fun to be had, everyone in Monaco now has many good reasons to get out and mingle again this summer, health protocols considered, of course.
Fashion Designer Alessandra Vicedomini shares her experience at the Hotel Royal Evian Resort, a magical palace designed to restore your body and reconnect your mind, in an idyllic natural setting.
Is it safe to dream again after all the restrictions of the pandemic? Can we leave our golden cages for a glamorous long-weekend getaway?
The answer is ‘yes’, and it is that time of the year again when our body screams for restorataion and our mind needs a complete reset. Our eyes have been deprived of all kinds of variety and beauty. We are ready to play with new colourful filters and smile again, mask-free.
A stunning invitation to join the Royal Hotel Evian Resort summer opening arrives in the mail the old fashion way, handwritten. It still makes me shiver when I take my carved 19th century letter-opener to disclose the content. It is a ‘yes’ from me without hesitation.
The many Covid restrictions forced us to decline everything for too long, and to be impulsive feels pretty nice and empowering these days.
So, here I am landing in the Swiss Alps, driving towards the world’s most well-known pure water source region, Evian-les-Bains in France. Fashion Designer Alessandra Vicedomini at the Hotel Royal Evian Resort
Water is one of the primary vital elements, it is “the” life source, an irreplaceable magnet for a health freak like me. Evian natural mineral water is a balanced combination of bicarbonate, calcium and magnesium and it is known to be weakly mineralised, pollution and clay-free, a true miracle of nature which gently protects skin PH. Evian is the most glamorous water brand, yet so naturally beneficial for our system.
Boasting a delightful location on the Leman lakefront with regal proportions, the Resort spreads over 245 acres, providing guests with a luxurious experience of relaxation. The wide selection of services include many ultra-chic veranda and terrace restaurants, one of which is the famous Michelin-starred Les Fresques. Chef Patrice Vander’s menu is dictated by the seasons, and his ingredients and aromatic herbs are grown directly on the estate. Photo of the Hotel Royal terrace by Evian Resort
Hidden together in this elegant resort, in which ultimate privacy reigns and you are blissfully unaware of the number of guests, are two golf courses with a professional academy, tennis and new-built padel courts, an impeccably organised kids club, game rooms, posh indoor and outdoor pools, a very well-equipped spacious gym and a very, very special spa. This newly remodelled spa operates exclusively on the Biologique Recherche Methodology, a visionary Paris based skincare brand born from medical researchers and biologists. My personal experience, performed by the utterly unique therapist Véronique who customised a facial plan to fit all the needs of my skin, left me speechless. After one hour of deep technical face massage with the cutting-edge P50 range, I looked many years younger! The epidermis is given a prime role as it communicates with our tissues’ deeper structure, and the replumping and glowing effect is immediate and long lasting.
Talking about unparalleled experiences, I was totally mesmerised by the idyllic Grange Au Lac, a theatre in the middle of the estate. Apparently, the aim was to challenge the Menhuin in Gstaad, building the structure in the same in wood. I can confirm that they definitely succeeded. It is a spectacular “tent” that went through major ecological challenges without digging into the rock to protect the Evian sources in a record time of eight months.
Have you ever heard of a concert hall entirely built from pine and cedar by architect Patrick Bouchain and Acoustic Yaying Gu, with a forest of aspen trees at the back of the stage, and Murano glass chandeliers? It is a must-go. You must find an excuse to visit one of the four major musical events of the year, playing host to the world’s most acclaimed jazz and classical artists. I was fortunate enough to enjoy André Manoukian’s duet with Robin McKelle amidst the sensational wooden aromas. It was elegant, magical and soulful. Photo of inside the Grange au Lac by Franck Juery
Owned by the renowned Danone Group, the Hotel Royal is a stunner and the landscape is epic. The sensory immersion with earth and pure air empowers and revitalises as soon as I approach. The moment I enter the gates, I already feel that this won’t be a simple weekend in a palace, but a unique customised experience. General Director Laurent Boussin welcomes me with the most interesting inside stories.
The establishment was built in honour of King Edward VII in the early 1900s and has drawn renowned personalities from all over the world until 2014, when it underwent a complete renovation. The smart concept epitomises the charm of traditional French style, with sumptuous interiors intertwined with modern details, which led the Royal Hotel being granted the sought-after Palace label status in 2018. “We had to go through so many procedures that culminated in a stressful two-hour interview with an ‘Illuminati’ elite commission made up of influential writers, architects and various artists,” Laurent Boussin tells me proudly. Photo of the Hotel Royal restaurant L’Oliveraie by Anne Moscatello
I have rarely encountered such a majestic jewel that combines history, impeccable service, and everything you can dream of in one unique location. Whether alone or with family, on a sporty or romantic mission, all expectations are fulfilled, and more.
And what about the nights at the Casino located directly on the waterfront promenade? You will also be tempted by the stunning in-house multi-brand boutique.
I will be forever thankful to the Danone Group and the great team at the Hotel Royal Evian Resort for spoiling me with real luxury and gifting me with a total feeling of peaceful reconnection with nature. They have so much to offer and explore that you risk experiencing a serious cases of FOMO (fear of missing out), so I am already planning my next trip.
See the gallery for more pictures of the Hotel Royal Evian Resort…
Digital ID cards are now available in Monaco and can be used for a number of things including international travel. Here’s everything you need to know about this latest innovation.
The Principality debuted its new digital identity cards for both nationals and residents at the Oceanographic Museum on Monday.
“From today, the digital identity of Monegasques and residents becomes a reality and opens up new and sure perspectives in the service of the population of the Principality,” said Minister of State Pierre Dartout.
He was joined at the launch by Mayor of Monaco Georges Marsan and Frédéric Genta, Interministerial Delegate in charge of Digital Transition (DITN), who explained the intricacies of the new card.
The ID cards will be managed and distributed by the Maire and state services, working closely with French company IN Groupe, who are specialists in secure identity and associated digital services.
The ID cards are designed to streamline many administrative processes without compromising personal safety and quality of life. Pierre Dartout referred to the new digital card as an “open sesame” for online public and private partner services, using an ultra-secure single authentication system following the highest international standards in the field.
Security is a huge factor in the deployment of this card and the government said that preventing identity theft was a priority when designing it. Several security factors have been built-in such as a five-digit PIN code to use the card on a computer and a six digit one for smartphone use. This, says the government, makes it unalterable and tamper-proof.
Additionally, the user can access or delete personal data at any time, giving them personal control over the information that is available on the card. If the card is lost or stolen, it will be possible to block the card within 24 hours.
Monegasques and residents can use their cards for general identity purposes within the Principality as well as for travelling outside the country, a new feature.
“Monegasques now have a highly secure, modern and aesthetically pleasing identity document,” said Georges Marsan.
All available services are expected to be up and running by September, though some are already compatible. Citizens and residents can sign or co-sign documents electronically, even from mobile smartphones, as well as make declarations of honour, civil status certificate requests, and connect to Monaco Telecom (MyMT) and SMEG (MyNexio) private spaces.
This new ability will streamline administrative processes as well as give a probative value on the e-signature, which has already been implemented in Monaco. In the coming months, the card will be a “one-stop-shop” offering access to the administrative functions of the public services.
“Monaco is launching its digital identity and thus enters the top five of the most advanced countries in this area, like Singapore and Estonia in particular,” said Frédéric Genta. “In the post-crisis world, digital identity is an essential infrastructure for the sovereignty and attractiveness of Monaco. Our ambition is to equip all Monegasques and residents, and at least two-thirds of them by the end of 2022.”
World’s first Streaming Film Festival to debut on Saturday
The inaugural edition of the Monaco Streaming Film Festival (MCSFF), in conjunction with major Hollywood streaming studios, Reg Grundy Media, The Princess Grace Foundation and GEMA Foundation, will take place from 3rd to 6th July at the Grimaldi Forum, preceding the Cannes Film Festival.
The first of its kind, MCSFF will take its premier steps on the red carpet and stream everything on its agenda worldwide. With Netflix Founding VP Mitch Lowe onboard as festival co-founder, this innovative hybrid “festival-meets-summit” experience celebrates the streaming industry’s content, makers, creators and talent, and leverages streaming technology to power the festival.
The festival will encompass a four-day conference showcasing the latest news and insights from the thought leaders of the streaming industry. For a full schedule visit the website here. Featured films:
Saturday 3rd July 18:00 Seduced – Inside The NXIVM Cult
Seduced is an intimate, harrowing first-person account of India Oxenberg’s journey through the self-help group turned destructive sex cult NXIVM. India is joined by a group of courageous women who had varying degrees of involvement in NXIVM. Along with India, they form a chorus of voices whose experiences add context and perspective to how intelligent, educated people can unknowingly end up in a cult.
Saturday 3rd July 20:00 To Catch A Thief
To Catch a Thief is a 1955 American romantic thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The film stars Cary Grant as a retired cat burglar who has to save his reformed reputation by catching an impostor preying on the wealthy tourists of the French Riviera. Grace Kelly stars opposite him as his romantic interest in her final film with Hitchcock.
Sunday 4th July 10:00 Togetherband Voices
Togetherband Voices is a series of short documentary films made in support of the United Nations’ global goals. The films follow ordinary people doing extraordinary work to address some of the most critical issues of our time. These inspiring portraits showcase people all over the world doing what they can to create a more just, more sustainable and more beautiful future for us all.
Sunday 4th July 12:00 David LaChappelle’s Off Hiatus
Off Hiatus is self-expression through fashion and style. The unscripted short exudes the humour of British global phenomenon Absolutely Fabulous with the makings of a cult sensation Spinal Tap for Fashion. The short follows fashion designer Kai Milla as she and her community of creative mavens give exclusive access to what really happens behind the scenes of fashion through storytelling and impromptu dialogue.
Sunday 4 July 17:15 Temptation by Civilization
Temptation by Civilization is inspired by interviews with Chilean philosopher, scientist, and humanist Darío Salas Sommer, and supervised, supported and funded by the Antropov Foundation. Temptation by Civilization is a reflection of the nature of the conflict between modern man and civilization. Is it possible to build a society based on moral principles, or is it a utopia? How can people of today understand themselves, find their own path in life, and become aware of their own measure of responsibility for the whole world? Can they grasp the meaning of their lives and find the answer to the ultimate question: “What was I born for?”
Monday 5th July 20:00 Michael Flatley’s Blackbird (Premiere)
Blackbird is a 2018 spy film directed by, produced, and written by and starring dancer Michael Flatley. The secret agent Blackbird retires from service and opens a luxurious nightclub in the Caribbean to escape the dark shadows of the past. An old flame reignites love in his life but brings danger with her.
Tuesday 6 July 19:00 Saint Frances
Saint Frances is a 2019 film, directed by Alex Thompson. Nominated for the 2021 John Cassavetes Award, the film manages to move from sad to funny, spiky to tender with such ease that your investment in the characters is absolute. The double act to treasure is a 34-year-old misfit Bridget and the six-year-old Frances of the title that she’s minding until school starts, but everyone has their moment here in a story all about the messiness of life.
A new digital radio station is coming to the airwaves on 1st July offering a variety of international, regional and local information as well as musical hits, just in time for summer.
The Monaco-based digital audio broadcasting (DAB) radio station is called Premium Radio listeners will be able to tune in from Menton, Nice and Cannes as well as in the Principality.
The founder of the project is Belgian entrepreneur Raphaël Warny, who over the past 15 years had developed several radio projects in Belgium and Luxembourg before setting his sights on Monaco where he obtained his radio license.
In addition to offering music, the station will be a hub for both local and international informational events as well as offering programming that relates to relevant topics of today such as personal development and professional retraining.
DAB is a broadcasting method where analogue audio is converted into a digital signal and transmitted on an assigned channel in the AM, or more usually FM, frequency range. DAB is said to offer CD quality audio on the FM broadcast band and to offer FM-quality audio on the AM broadcast band. The technology was first publicly used in the United Kingdom in 1995 and has become the European standard.
“Digital is the future of radio. It uses less energy and gives the listener a true radio experience. From the cover of the title being broadcast to the sound quality,” said Warny.
The radio station will be supported by the web and social media outlets developed by Warny and his team.
“This has always been our strength – the development of social networks is essential for a medium. Radio media is constantly evolving and aims to become more of a medium offering various channels of information. From the web, to sound, via a mobile application or video,” he said.
“We will also be surfing the new wave of podcasting by offering various radio events. The reception of the idea by the major French and international podcasters is very motivating.”
The website for Premium Radio is already up and running giving an idea of what to expect come launch day. For those interested in a sneak peak, visit www.premiumradio.net otherwise tune in on the 1st when they go live in the Principality for the first time.
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