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Month: September 2024

Club Suisse de Monaco forms new partnership with Julius Baer Monaco

by: Stephanie Horsman
18/09/2024

The Club Suisse de Monaco has announced a new sponsorship collaboration with the respected wealth management firm Julius Baer Monaco, a partnership driven by a mutual interest in promoting cultural, social and sporting exchanges in the Principality. 

The Swiss Club of Monaco and Julius Baer Monaco share intertwined roots in their Swiss heritage, as well as strong connections to the local community in Monaco. 

As such, Julius Baer Monaco has announced that the firm will be stepping in as the primary sponsor of the Club, enhancing its support for the Swiss expat community in the Principality, as well as the broader population of Monaco. This partnership aims to elevate the Swiss Club of Monaco’s various initiatives, which range from hosting cultural events to fostering links between the local international communities of Monaco and France, and with those simply interested in getting to know the culture and people of Switzerland. 

Arik Röschke, President of the Swiss Club of Monaco, has expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership, saying, “We are very pleased to partner with Julius Baer Monaco, a leading company known for its strategic focus on wealth management and its strong Swiss roots. This cooperation will allow us to expand our activities and offer our members exclusive, enriching experiences.” 

See more: Inaugural Club Suisse de Monaco gourmet rally tours Provence

For Julius Baer Monaco, the collaboration goes beyond financial backing. It reflects the bank’s long-standing commitment to the Swiss community in Monaco and underscores its role as a key supporter of cultural and social initiatives in the Principality. 

Albert Henriques-Pascoal, CEO of Julius Baer Monaco, says of the collaboration, “The Swiss Club of Monaco plays a pivotal role in promoting cultural exchanges and strengthening networks within both the Swiss and Monegasque societies. We are proud to support this important work and look forward to the exciting joint projects that will come from this collaboration.” 

With Julius Baer Monaco’s backing, the Swiss Club of Monaco, one of the Principality’s oldest and most prestigious associations dating back to 1949, is poised to offer an even more extensive calendar of events, from exclusive cultural gatherings to fun and festive dinners, group trips and exciting sporting occasions, all aimed at building a more vibrant and interconnected community. 

Upcoming events hosted by the Swiss Club include an apéro on 10th October, the association’s 75th anniversary celebrations on 15th October and an as-yet undisclosed date for the annual Christmas Dinner. 

For more on the organisation and its events, click here.

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo credit: Romain Chevalier / Club Suisse de Monaco

Richard Lee and Yannick Alléno team up for a stunning four-hands finale at Festival des Étoilés

by: Cassandra Tanti
18/09/2024

The stars aligned over Monaco on the weekend for the grand finale of the Festival des Étoilés four-hands dinners. Chef Richard Lee and his team from San Francisco’s Saison joined forces with the renowned Chef Yannick Alléno at Pavyllon Monte-Carlo, creating an unforgettable, celestial gastronomic journey. 

The Festival des Étoilés de Monte-Carlo (Stars Festival of Monte-Carlo) was first introduced in 2021 by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) as a prestigious culinary event, and celebrates the talents of the resort’s Michelin-starred chefs in a showcase series of gourmet dinners and culinary collaborations. Each edition offers diners a once-in-a-lifetime pairing and gastronomic experience.

On Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September, the 2024 series of dinners came to a close with an evening featuring Chef Yannick Alléno, holder of 16 Michelin stars, and Chef Richard Lee of the two-starred Saison restaurant in San Fransisco. 

Over two dazzling evenings, guests were treated to an exploration of culinary innovation, from Alléno’s famous extraction sauces to Lee’s focus on fermentation and cooking over an open flame. Saison is recognised as the original fine dining pioneer of open hearth cooking in the U.S., and holds two Michelin stars as well as a spot on the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurants list as a result.

Chef Richard Lee’s gambero rosso, mussels, corn curry and swarnadipwa spice. Photo source: Monte-Carlo SBM

Chef Lee brought his signature precision and creativity to Monaco, impressing diners with his respect for quality ingredients. His first dish, red prawns with corn curry and a swarnadipwa spice blend inspired by an 800-year-old recipe from Southeast Asia, showcased the complex, layered flavours rooted in his Chinese heritage. The flame-seared Wagyu beef, served with bone marrow and soubise sauce, reflected his classical French training and famous Saison cooking style. Pastry Chef Nasir Armar’s hot chocolate dessert with smoked pistachio and beurre noisette was a stunning finale, both visually and in taste.

Chef Alléno’s contributions to the Festival des Étoilés menu showcased his refined approach to classic dishes. His trouchia torte elevated a traditional Niçoise recipe, while the turbot and bone marrow paired with girolle mushrooms offered a masterclass in French culinary tradition. The milk cloud dessert with wild strawberries was a testament to Chef Alléno’s talent for creating indulgent sweets without relying on processed sugars.

Chef Yannick Alléno’s opening dish of thinly sliced ​​line-caught sea bass, seasoned with ginger gel, Dashi and pearl caviar in dill oil

Wine pairings presented by Mark Bright, Co-Founder and Beverage Director of Saison Hospitality, and the lively beats from the house DJ, as well as the infectious energy emanating from the open kitchen, all came together to complete another unforgettable Festival des Étoilés dinner.

This year’s four-hands dinners were held: in April, when Alain Ducasse welcomed Chef Simon Rogan of the restaurant L’Enclume*** to Louis XV – Alain Ducasse*** at the Hôtel de Paris; in May, when Marcel Ravin welcomed Chef David Toutain of the restaurant David Toutain** to the Blue Bay Marcel Ravin** at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort; and in June, when Chef Dominique Lory welcomed Chef Yoan Conte of the restaurant La Table de Yoan Conte** to Le Grill* at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. 

It will all culminate in the closing gala of the Festival des Étoilés de Monte-Carlo 2024, which will be held on the Patio of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo on 11th October. 

Experience the final four-hands dinner through Cassandra Tanti’s lens in the video below…

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Main photo: Saison Executive Chef Richard Lee (left) and Pavyllon Monte-Carlo Executive Chef Yannick Alléno. Photo source: Monte-Carlo SBM

 

Hôtel Métropole to host debut Art & Luxury Fair later this month

by: Stephanie Horsman
18/09/2024

Visitors to the upcoming Art & Luxury Fair at the Hôtel Métropole will be invited to immerse themselves in worlds of exceptional craftsmanship, elegance and design. Among the artists and creatives set to present their designs are Her Royal Highness Princess Margarita de Bourbon de Parme and Dutch Royal Family hat designer Berry Rutjes Jr.

Between 26th and 28th September, the five-star Hôtel Métropole will host the inaugural edition of the Art & Luxury Fair, a unique celebration of artistic excellence and sophisticated living.

See more: Hôtel de Paris and Hôtel Métropole earn ‘Michelin Key’ status in new prestigious guide

The three-day event will bring together world-renowned brands, artists and artisans, including several with royal connections.

Among those set to feature at the event: Her Royal Highness Princess Margarita de Bourbon de Parme, displaying her exquisite jewellery collection; Dutch sculptor Daphné du Barry; Danish designer Isabell Kristensen; Moldovan painter Liudmila Sun; Dutch hat designer Berry Rutjes Jr.; sculptor Sonja Vishnudart; and renowned art restorer Zuhura Iddi, best known for her work with Banksy and Breitner. Guests will have the rare opportunity to witness some of these creators and craftspeople at work in their on-site ateliers, allowing them to observe the creative process up close in a dynamic and interactive setting.

The fair will also showcase an impressive roster of brands and artisans, including De Parme Design, Royal Blue Collection, Spadafora, De Akelei, Perrier Jouët, Monacqua, La Distillerie de Monaco and Feadship.

A special highlight of the event is the Dutch Design section, which aims to foster a deeper artistic and cultural connection between the Netherlands and Monaco, thanks to the vision of the event’s organiser, Annette Wijdom.

Exclusive tastings and degustation events will further elevate the visitor experience.

The fair will be open every day from 11am to 7pm, with guided tours possible at 11.30am, 2pm, 3.30pm and 5.30pm on each of the three days.  

For more information, click here.

Read related:

Michelin Guide 2024: Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac earns two stars in its first year

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo source: Hôtel Métropole, Facebook

US Sixth Fleet’s Ceremonial Band performs for Prince Albert II on the Place du Palais

by: Elsa Carpenter
18/09/2024

Following the formal Changing of the Guard ceremony earlier this week, a detachment of 20 talented musicians from the United States Sixth Fleet delighted crowds and dignitaries with a special performance on the Place du Palais.

On Monday 16th September, the same day that Prince Albert II received Italy’s new Ambassador to the Principality of Monaco, Manuela Ruosi, the US Sixth Fleet’s Ceremonial Band delivered a wonderful 12-minute aubade on the square in front of the Palace.

The performance, led by Ensign Adele Demi, followed the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily at 11.55 am. Along with the members of the public who had assembled on the square to witness the occasion, Prince Albert and Ambassador Ruosi could be seen enjoying the show from one of the Palace balconies.

Read more: Prince Albert II extends warm welcome to Italy’s new Ambassador to Monaco

The US Sixth Fleet is currently based in Naples, the new ambassador’s hometown, but was previously stationed in Villefranche-sur-Mer from 1956 until 1967. This connection to the Riviera is celebrated each year in the coastal town.

The recent performance in Monaco was also part of the annual commemorations of Admiral de Grasse, François Joseph Paul, who was born in Le Bar-sur-Loup in 1722. He played a significant role in the Battle of the Chesapeake (1781) during the American War of Independence. The success of the French navy, under Paul’s command, led to General Charles Cornwallis’ surrender. In the weeks that followed, the Continental Army secured another important victory at Yorktown, prompting the British Government to negotiate an end to the war.

Prince Albert II of Monaco enjoyed the performance from a Palace balcony. Photo credit: Palais Princier de Monaco / Axel Bastello / Michael Alesi

The Ceremonial Band is the “musical ensemble of reference” for official ceremonies in service to the Commander of US Naval Forces Europe and Africa, said a representative for the Prince’s Palace following the performance.

“This group plays a key role in strengthening ties with European and African partners by performing at official ceremonies, commemorations, parades, tattoos and other public events. Its rich and varied repertoire includes ceremonial music, military marches and popular music pieces,” they added.

See more: In pictures: Remembering the WWII Liberation of Monaco

The performance at the Place du Palais symbolises the strong diplomatic and cultural ties maintained between the Principality and the United States.

To see more of the special event, click on the images below:

Read related:

Prince Albert II takes leading role at 80th anniversary commemorations of Monaco’s 1944 Liberation

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo credits: Stéphane Danna / Michael Alesi / Axel Bastello / Palais Princier de Monaco / Monaco Communications Department

Basketball: Monaco Women’s team announces new partnership with Monte-Carlo SBM

by: Stephanie Horsman
18/09/2024
basketball sbm

The Monaco Basketball Association, home to the Principality’s leading women’s team, has announced an exciting new partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), a collaboration set to boost the team’s presence in the sport and increase its financial capacities during the upcoming season and beyond.

At a press conference on Tuesday 17th September, SBM CEO Stéphane Valeri confirmed the new partnership agreement, saying, “It is a source of pride for me and for our Group to support the Monaco Basket Association, to help the women’s team progress to the highest peaks of the competition. This is a partnership that brings together many common values: respect for gender equality, team spirit and surpassing oneself, without forgetting the constant search for the best results.”

Founded in 2009 by Eric Elena, the Monaco Basketball Association and its premier team have made a name for themselves in the years since, winning the 2017 and 2022 French Cup Trophies and the 2017 NF2 French Championship. The team came close to victory last season as well, reaching the finals of the 2024 French Cup Trophy.

See more: Interview: Oleksiy Yefimov, General Manager of AS Monaco Basket

Their ambition and hard work caught the eye of SBM, and the Group has now signed a contract with the club that will be “characterised by direct financial support to materially help the club climb the ladder of women’s basketball divisions, and indirect assistance, with the provision of certain Group infrastructures”.

Monaco Basketball Association players pose with their new kit for the 2024/25 season. Photo credit: Monte-Carlo SBM

The team is currently in the French Women’s National 1 (NF1) league, but has its sights set on ascending to the Ligue Féminine 2 this season. From there, the team will be within touching distance of the top women’s basketball league in France: the Ligue Féminine de Basket.

Read more: Basketball: Roca Team sets ambitious goals for 2024/25 EuroLeague season

“Having SBM believe in us is very important. We’re in the process of taking a step forward,” said Elena of the new partnership. “The entire women’s team, as well as the MBA managers, join me in thanking Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer and its Deputy Chairman, Stéphane Valeri, for the impetus given to our new 2024/2025 season. This partnership is an important step forward in supporting our ambition to rise as a team and forces us to surpass ourselves.”

The team also unveiled their new jerseys at the press conference. The kit features a bold and striking design that symbolises a new era for the team.

Read related:

What’s it like to be a VIP member of AS Monaco basketball? A courtside experience inside look

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Main photo credit: Monte-Carlo SBM

Basketball: Roca Team sets ambitious goals for 2024/25 EuroLeague season

by: Niki Borisova
17/09/2024

AS Monaco Basket’s leadership and players gathered on Tuesday for a press conference ahead of the 2024 EuroLeague season, outlining their goals for success both on and off the court.

With the EuroLeague season fast approaching, AS Monaco Basket brought the local press together on 17th September to discuss the team’s goals for the upcoming 2024/25 season at an event held at the Monaco Automobile Club.

It was led by AS Monaco Basket President Aleksej Fedoricsev, General Manager Oleksiy Yefimov and Head Coach Sasa Obradovic. Roca Team’s pivot Donatas Motiejunas, shooting guard Elie Okobo and newly signed point guard Nick Calathes also spoke to the press.

The team strategy for the 2024/25 EuroLeague season, said Oleksiy Yefimov, is to maintain its strong standing in domestic and European basketball scenes.

“We always need to show consistency, and we have a very good record so far,” he said.

See more: Interview: Oleksiy Yefimov, General Manager of AS Monaco Basket

Fedoricsev added, “It’s important to us to stay stable, keep our style and always have this consistency, combined with a lot of energy.”

A key moment of the discussion was the team’s performance last season. In the 2023/24 season, 106,000 fans attended their games, 93% of whom expressed intentions to return. In the same season, AS Monaco Basket achieved a cumulative audience of 149 million views of its games, contributing to a 171.5% increase in digital engagement.

Donatas Motiejunas, Elie Okobo and Nick Calathes at the press conference. Photo by Monaco Life

Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 season, AS Monaco Basket outlined several ambitious goals, namely victory in the Betclic Elite league, the Leaders Cup and the Coupe de France, as well as the securing of a place in the EuroLeague playoffs.

“We have a clear set of goals. We know what we need to do and how to bring the level of the team up,” said Okobo.

See more: Preparations for the 2024/25 EuroLeague season well underway for AS Monaco Basket

“I am looking forward to the start of the new season, new pressures, new challenges,” revealed Coach Obradovic, who is about to hit his 20th milestone as a coach. “I was unhappy with the pre-season so far, as there were a lot of question marks. However, we have to use this time now to get into the best physical and tactical shape.”

See more: Basketball: Roca Team lose out to EuroLeague titans Real Madrid

In his first press conference with the Monegasque team, Calathes remarked, “I love the team; these are some of the most outstanding players. In the end, we all need to get better and stronger, and once we are used to playing all together, we will build upon it.”

Nick Calathes, with representatives from Spalding, displaying the new team jersey for the upcoming season. Photo by Monaco Life

Commercially, the Roca Team plans to improve the fan experience and boost revenue by 40% while also establishing the club as a stronger brand globally. They plan to achieve this through strategic partnerships, such as the sponsorship deals with Groupe Michel Pastor, Pineappli and Spalding, a global sporting goods company.

Read related:

Interview: Oleksiy Yefimov, General Manager of AS Monaco Basket

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

In main phot: Roca Team coach Sasa Obradovic, AS Monaco Basket President Aleksej Fedoricsev and General Manager Oleksiy Yefimov. Photos by Monaco Life