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Day: 9 December 2021

Epic title battle set to conclude this weekend

by: Luke Entwistle
09/12/2021

F1 championship rivals Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen go into this weekend’s final round in Abu Dhabi level on points as a classic, often bitter, title battle reaches its denouement.
It has been 47 years since title rivals went into the final race with nothing to separate them, and the first time since Nico Rosberg’s title-winning 2016 season, that the title has still been up for grabs going into the final round. In short, F1 fans have been treated to an absolute classic that is set to go right down to the wire.
Abu Dhabi is often more of a processionary race with the title wrapped-up, and the post-race fireworks often take centre stage. However, the fireworks will certainly be taking place on-track this Sunday. The objective for both drivers is as simple as can be: finish in-front of their rival and they will become world champion.
The contrasting profiles of Hamilton and Verstappen, both of whom are Monaco residents, has provided a brilliant season-long narrative. Hamilton, hoping to secure his eighth world championship, would become the first driver to do so. The Brit is currently tied with German great Michael Schumacher with seven. Verstappen, meanwhile, is hoping to secure his maiden title, driven by his youthful fearlessness and, at times, recklessness that leaves him on the brink of attaining F1’s greatest prize.
The two rivals have been inseparable all year, both on the track and in the standings. To the delight of fans globally, no driver has managed to pull away and dominate, as has been the case in recent seasons. Their on-track skirmishes, which have at times resulted in disaster for one or both drivers, have added to the spectacle, as well as to the growing feud between the two drivers. Incidents at Silverstone, Monza and as recently as last week in Jeddah, immediately spring to mind.
Given the bad-blood between the pair, as well as what is at stake, it is plausible or even likely, that we may not have seen their last on-track skirmish this season. There even remains the distinct possibility that Verstappen, who would win the championship on race wins if both were to not score points, could even try to manufacture a collision, and take both himself and Hamilton out of the race.
Should that happen, it would perhaps be a fitting end to what has been a season punctuated with unsavoury moments, although from a fans point of view, this would be a highly unsatisfying outcome. Hopefully, we are treated to one more battle between these two greats, as one of them goes on to lift the title at the Yas Marina circuit on Sunday afternoon.
 
 

Possible booster shot delay with new antibody pass

by: Stephanie Horsman
09/12/2021

Monaco will reportedly allow residents with a high antibody count to delay their third booster shot, as part of a new serological pass said to be announced by the government.

According to a report in Thursday’s Monaco Matin, a new serological pass is soon to be introduced in the Principality. The pass is only valid in Monaco, but it does allow residents the opportunity to postpone their third dose if their antibody count is high enough.

“There will be a specific document to allow these people to benefit from a valid health pass and to postpone the third injection,” said Health Minister Didier Gamerdinger to the newspaper. “We are in the middle of finalising the process. This certificate will come into effect, and it will be a paper document. We are in the process of finalising it because we have to guarantee its authenticity, the identity of its holder.”

A person’s level of antibodies can only be determined in a serological (blood) test. These are offered free of charge as part of the Principality’s national serological monitoring programme.

The pass, with its limited use and two-month validity, does not eliminate the need for a third shot completely, nor does it give certificate holders the ability to flout the rules outside the borders. The pass will not be accepted in France or Italy, for example. But for those happy to stay local and dine or visit cultural sites, it is an option if they do not wish to have a booster. 

Meanwhile, during a 6th December National Council meeting, Minister of State Pierre Dartout reiterated calls for more members of the population to get fully vaccinated, saying, “Our goal remains to achieve a rate of 90% for the population over 12-years-old. We’re just over 65% today, which is the room for improvement we still have to fill.”

 
 
 
Photo source: Pixabay
 
 
 

Monaco Experiences: Spa Metropole by Givenchy

by: Cassandra Tanti
09/12/2021

Whether it’s a luxurious rejuvenation for the festive season, a thoughtful gift for Christmas, or a New Year detox, Spa Metropole by Givenchy offers an oasis in the heart of Monte-Carlo, where fashion house chic meets mind and body revival.

With an elegant interior designed by Didier Gomez, Spa Metropole by Givenchy reflects the House’s sophistication and modernity in every detail.

From the gilded reception room and white marble floors, to illuminated forest prints and glass lamps softly lighting the hallways, the ambiance here is contemporary and calm.

Spa Metropole by Givenchy was designed by Didier Gomez, whose clients include Yves Saint-Laurent, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior.

Exclusive treatments

The spa offers an extensive list of treatments, including the signature Metropole Le Soin Noir by Givenchy, a 90-minute face and body custom-tailored treatment.

The anti-jetlag body massage and facial treatment is a must for busy travellers, while the anti-fatigue and radiance treatment is perfect for this month’s demanding social calendar.

I tried Glam Up by Givenchy, a unique creation combining relaxation and beauty. After selecting a scent, specially crafted by Givenchy to help guide clients to the realm of relaxation, I was treated to a therapeutic back massage to refocus my mind and shed the stress of daily life. It continued with an exclusive treatment for the eye area with the application of the Le Soin Noir lace mask, a unique formula that promises to produce instant visible results.

Clients have access to an array of Givenchy beauty products at the spa

Maison Givenchy make-up

As the name suggests, Glam Up by Givenchy finishes with a make-up ritual, giving guests the opportunity to get creative with the colours and textures of Maison Givenchy.

Given the health restrictions, guests will enjoy the single or couple suites with private steam room and bath, while the post-treatment space offers full relaxation with snacks and healthy juices.

Relaxation room at the Spa Metropole by Givenchy

Long list of treatments available

Linda, my aesthetician, was incredibly skilled in all three processes, and this, I later learned, is the result of a dedicated training regimen and skill renewal program that Givenchy provides its staff.

Overall, the 105-minute spa package for 310€ was everything that it promised to be, and more. For those who wish to give a gift of pampering this Christmas, it also comes with a special treat.

The list of treatments is extensive at Spa Metropole by Givenchy, and features everything from pedicures and manicures, to yoga, swimming and a fitness studio.

Spa Metropole by Givenchy at the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo opened late 2019

Attention to detail

In addition to feeling fully rejuvenated and ready to take on the world, I was particularly impressed by the professionalism and attention to detail here. Even from behind masks, the staff exuded warmth, charm and talent, making my experience at the Spa Metropole by Givenchy truly luxurious and unique.

 

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Photos in article by Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo

Ski Report: 10-13 December

by: Luke Entwistle
09/12/2021

In our new weekly Ski Report, Monaco Life brings you all of the latest information on skiing conditions at the region’s most popular resorts.
The ski season is off to a roaring start with heavy snowfalls throughout the region. Isola and Limone Piemonte in Italy, in particular, are already seeing high amounts of snow.
Isola 2000 – Nine runs and five ski lifts are currently open at Isola. The resort last received snowfall on Wednesday, and there is currently 60/50 cm of snow cover. There is not expected to be any more snowfall until after the weekend, though temperatures will remain below freezing until Sunday, with lows of -9°C. It is expected to be sunny on Saturday, whilst Sunday may see slightly more cloud cover. The col de la Bonette and la Lombarde roads are closed until the end of the winter season.
Auron – The resort is expected to see two to five centimetres of snow cover on Friday, which will top up the 20cm of snowfall that is already lying. Visibility will therefore be poor on Friday, but this will give way to sunny skies for the rest of the weekend with lows of -8°C, and highs on Sunday of 5°C. In terms of roads, Route de la Tinée, Route de la Bonette, Piste de la Moustière, Piste de Demandols all remain closed.
Les Deux Alpes – There is already 30cm of standing snow with more snow expected to fall on Friday. The snow will give way to a largely sunny weekend with lows of -9°C and highs of 2°C. 23 runs are open at the resort as well as 13 ski lifts.
La Colmiane – There is already 45cm of snow in the high areas with 30cm at lower ground, with another couple of centimetres expected on Friday. The rest of the weekend should be largely sunny with lows of -7°C and highs of 4°C on Sunday. The resort hasn’t reported any road closures and two runs and four ski lifts are open.
Greolieres les Neiges – The resort saw 10cm of fresh snowfall on Wednesday, and another 2cm is expected on Friday. The weekend will be sunny with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. There will also be a strong south-easterly wind on Friday, with winds of up to 60 km/h, which will reduce to 30 km/h on Saturday.
Limone Piemonte – There are currently three runs open at the resort and four ski-lifts. Visibility is good. At the highest part of the resort there is already 105cm of snow, with more expected on Friday. The weekend will be largely sunny with lows of -3°C and highs of 7°C. Passage through the Roya valley currently isn’t possible due to the collapsed bridge at Tende. Drivers must instead pass through Ventimiglia and the journey from Monaco is currently approximately three hours.
Valberg – The resort has 15cm of fresh snowfall, with another 2cm predicted to fall on Friday. The weekend will be mostly sunny with highs of 5°C and lows of -3°C. There are currently 10 runs open at the resort, but none of the ski-lifts are yet running.
 
Note: Snow tyres must be worn on the roads up to the ski resorts.
 
 
Photo source: Isola 2000
 
 
 

Pre-Christmas deals at Braderie de Monaco

by: Stephanie Horsman
09/12/2021

Load up on pre-holiday deals at the 24th annual Monaco merchant clearance sale this weekend at the Chapiteau de Fontvieille.

From Friday morning until Sunday evening, thousands of items will be on sale, from men’s and women’s ready-to-wear pieces to sporting goods, home décor, and accessories.

Organised by the Union des Commerçants et Artisans de Monaco each year, the three- day event will feature flash sales and huge discounts on a variety of items just in time for holiday shopping sprees.

Maison Noir, ACM Boutique, Banana Moon, Carlo Ramello, Ekinsport, Moghadam, and Clo are amongst the many merchants expected to participate, as are new-comers Noblesse Oblige, Optique Grosfurez, Renew Your Style, Manufacture de Monaco, Garbarino Interior Design, and Boutique Retouches.

For the ultimate Christmas gift, Toyota Lexus of Monaco will also be on hand offering a selection of vehicles discounted by up to €7,550 for a Toyota and €17,280 for a Lexus.

There will also be catering on-site so no hunger pangs to slow down the shopping.

Entry is free and a valid health pass is required. Preferential parking packages are available in the car parks of Fontvieille, excluding the Fontvieille Shopping Centre and Parking de la Colle car parks.

For more detailed info on merchants and particulars, visit the event’s social media page at https://www.facebook.com/braderiedemonaco/

 

France expands vaccination capabilities of pharmacies

by: Stephanie Horsman
09/12/2021

French Health Minister Olivier Veran has announced that pharmacies will be permitted to temporarily open on Sundays as vaccination centres.

“We are increasing the number of centres that can vaccinate,” France’s Health Minister Olivier Véran on Thursday. “Liberals, pharmacists, doctors, physiotherapists, nursing midwives, receive more than four million doses of messenger RNA vaccines every week.”

To simplify and amplify this recall campaign, Véran has signed a decree authorising and encouraging pharmacists to open every Sunday without limitation in the months of December and January.

The move comes amidst concerns over the latest leap in Covid cases, which authorities are calling the “fifth wave”. On 8th December, the ministry recorded 72,000 new cases in a single day, a record since the start of the pandemic. The previous record was set back in November 2020 with roughly 70,000 single day cases.

The peak of the fifth wave could be reached by the end of the month, the minister said, if the population adheres to social distancing and mask-wearing rules, as well as limiting gatherings, though these requests seem a bit unlikely as the social holiday season looms.

Nonetheless, Véran uses science to justify his optimism, saying, “We are seeing a slowdown in epidemic growth: we were at +60% of cases in a week, then +40%, now it is between +25 and +30%.” He is asking the French to “multiply daily efforts” to slow the march of the disease.

Veran also warned that new controls will be considered if people do not adhere to the rules, saying, “We do not need to impose restrictions, since the French know how to protect themselves from the virus: it is aperitifs with friends that we will cancel even if it is the end of the year period. These are those moments of conviviality, moments of relaxation, where we take off the mask too easily because we feel safe.”

France has 47.6 million fully vaccinated people, roughly 70% of the population, and 14.6% have received a booster so far. The hope is that Sunday openings at the pharmacies will incentivise those who work weekdays to come in and get jabbed at a convenient time.

 
 
 
Photo by Jakayla Toney on Unsplash