15 ° C
Profile

Month: October 2024

Basketball: Roca Team’s unbeaten EuroLeague home streak broken by Paris Basketball

by: Niki Borisova
26/10/2024

AS Monaco Basket’s winning streak of back-to-back EuroLeague victories at home in the Salle Gaston Médecin has come to an end. The Roca Team was simply outpaced by Paris Basketball on Thursday 24th October, with a series of missed opportunities proving costly for the Monaco side.

Despite a strong start to the season, the Roca Team struggled to match the tempo and precision of their Parisian rivals during their recent meeting in the Principality, with Paris Basketball coming away as the 80-87 victors of the game.

The defeat is a setback for AS Monaco Basket, whose performance was marred by several missed opportunities and inconsistency in critical moments.

The home team’s struggles began early, with turnovers and shooting issues allowing Paris to secure an early lead. Despite defensive adjustments and a brief lead in the third quarter, Monaco couldn’t maintain their momentum.

A rally led by Elie Okobo and Matthew Strazel briefly put the Roca Team 58-56 up, sparking hopes of a comeback. However, timely three-pointers from Paris in the final quarter, along with Monaco’s missed free throws, ultimately decided the game.

Mam Jaiteh, Mike James and Elie Okobo each scored 13 points, but it wasn’t enough to counter Paris’s scoring efficiency overall.

Head coach Sasa Obradovic reflected on the game, saying, “We missed too many opportunities today, whether it was passes or open shots. We left too many chances on the court, which makes it difficult to win, especially against a well-playing team.”

The team will play Nancy in the Betclic Elite on Saturday 26th October. The next EuroLeague home game will be on 12th November against Crvena Zvezda.

Read related:

Basketball: AS Monaco overcome Cholet in strong final quarter to win 89-72

 

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: AS Monaco Basket

Halloween in Monaco: Masquerades, club nights and thrilling soirées

by: Niki Borisova
25/10/2024

From elegant masquerades and immersive themed dinners to electrifying club nights and spooky soirées at the Casino Café de Paris, there are lots of adult-only events and occasions planned in venues across Monaco this Halloween.

Let Monaco Life take you by the hand and lead you through a guide to some of the best and biggest parties set to take place in the Principality in the coming days.

Spooky feasts

It’ll be masks out for Da Valentino’s Venetian Masquerade soirée on 31st October, a night where elegant dining meets mystique and intrigue. It’s perfect for those wanting to celebrate Halloween with a touch of class. For reservations, call +377 99 99 49 49.

Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo will also be hosting a fusion event featuring Halloween décor, live music from DJ Papa and Reno, and its signature Asian cuisine. Buddhalloween will be held every night from 29th October to 2nd November. Guests are encouraged to come in costume. Reservations can be made by calling +377 98 06 19 19.

Dance with the dark

Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo will be transformed into a Coachellito Halloween on 31st October. DJs Marco Tropeano, Lüna, and Chaps will provide the beats, and the club’s signature setup will ensure an energetic night of dancing and festivities.

Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo will be transformed into a Coachellito Halloween on 31st October. Photo credit: Monte-Carlo SBM

For a darker twist, Twiga Monte-Carlo is set to become a Cursed Castle on 31st October. The night will kick off with a dinner show starring Alessandro Ristori and The Portofinos, followed by a party that will keep the haunting vibes alive into the early hours.

Dare to play

For those looking to test their luck, the Casino Café de Paris will host three Halloween celebrations between 31st October and 2nd November. Each evening from 10pm until 2am, the Casino will host live DJ sets, run a 100% winning Lucky Wheel, and serve unique Halloween-themed cocktails. Guests can also enjoy special performances and adult makeup-artistry sessions on 31st October and 1st November.

The Casino Café de Paris will be hosting three Halloween-themed nights between 31st October and 2nd November. Photo credit: Monte-Carlo SBM

Raise your spirits

The Sea Club at Le Méridien Hotel will be hosting a Black & Orange soirée organised by the British Association and MonacoUSA on 31st October from 6.30pm to 9pm. Guests are invited to dress in black, orange, or both for an evening of canapés with a cash bar. Tickets are €35 per person. To book, click here.

Down at Port Hercule, Before Monaco is hosting its La Folie Monegasque Halloween night on 31st October, promising a thrilling evening of fun and festivities. For reservations, call +377 99 90 80 30.

Finally, Sass Café brings a playful theme to this year’s celebrations with their Sass Circus event. Guests can expect a night of carnival-inspired chaos on 31st October, complete with costumes and lively entertainment. Book by calling +377 93 25 52 00.

 

Read related:

Halloween in Monaco: All the spooky celebrations planned for children and families

 

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: Monte-Carlo SBM

France: Codeine and tramadol to be available by prescription only from December

by: Stephanie Horsman
25/10/2024
codeine tramadol

Effective from 1st December 2024, French pharmacies will only be permitted to dispense the popular opioid-based painkillers codeine and tramadol upon proof of a valid and secure prescription. This move is part of a national effort to reduce cases of abuse and long-term dependence.

France’s National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) has introduced new restrictions on the frequently prescribed pain medications codeine and tramadol.

As of 1st December, medicines containing tramadol, codeine, and dihydrocodeine, alone or in combination with other pain relievers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, will only be dispensed upon presentation of a secure prescription, also called a protected order. The prescriber must clearly state the dosage and specify a treatment duration that lasts no more than 12 weeks. After this period, the patient must obtain a new prescription.

The term “secure prescription” differs from a regular one in that it must meet certain standards to prevent forgery. These include being pre-printed in blue with a watermark on paper free of optical brighteners, and with a minimum weight of 77 g/m². Pharmacists are trained to recognise false prescriptions and are now actively working to reduce instances of fraud, counterfeiting, the use of false documents, and theft.

The dangers of opioid overuse

For all practical purposes, codeine and tramadol offer the same basic level of relief, as both belong to the opioid family. The difference is that codeine is a natural opiate derived from the opium poppy plant, while tramadol is a synthetic, man-made drug.

Both options can be addictive, and taking more than the recommended dose can lead to death or serious injury. According to a 2023 study by the UK’s National Institutes of Health, deaths from codeine in France have decreased since 2017, while tramadol-related fatalities are on the rise.

Side effects are similar, with patients reporting mild symptoms such as light-headedness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, constipation, abdominal pain, itching, and rashes. More serious side effects include hallucinations, confusion, and trouble urinating.

For more information on the new law, as well as recommended usage and precautions, 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 source: Mariano Baraldi, Unsplash

Underwater artist Bastien Soleil bringing ‘Odyssée’ exhibition to Monaco

by: Stephanie Horsman
24/10/2024

Visitors to Bastien Soleil’s latest solo exhibition, Odyssée, can expect a deep dive into the ethereally exquisite underwater world of the celebrated undersea photographer. The exhibit, which is being hosted by the Comité National Monégasque de l’Association Internationale des Arts Plastiques, will be on show on Quai Antoine Ier from 31st October to 7th November.

French freediver and artist Bastien Soleil has built a career around his two passions: photography and freediving. His journey of self-discovery and adventure began with a soul-searching trip to Asia, where he was introduced to the sport—a form of underwater diving that relies solely on breath-holding rather than using breathing apparatus like oxygen tanks—and became captivated by the freedom and thrill it offered.

This adoration of the underwater realm led him to incorporate photography into his dives, resulting in a series of otherworldly images that could easily be mistaken for paintings or digital creations. Soleil uses no gimmicks, with each photo meticulously staged and shot using only his eye and a camera.

“In the age of artificial intelligence, the act of artistic creation finds itself being undermined,” he says. “My work has been an act of resistance since the start: the most natural conditions possible, compositions, lights, models, as well as myself, are without a net. I work ‘free solo’. No oxygen tanks, no special effects.”

Some of the works in the exhibition were shot in Monaco waters. Photo credit: Bastien Soleil

Now, he is bringing a selection of his finest works—some shot in and around Monaco—to the Principality for a solo exhibition at the Comité National Monégasque de l’Association Internationale des Arts Plastiques headquarters on Quai Antoine Ier from 31st October to 7th November.

For more information on the artist as well as a full catalogue of works, 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 credits: Bastien Soleil

Michael Douglas honoured by Prince Albert II at Princess Grace Foundation USA gala

by: Cassandra Tanti
24/10/2024

Hollywood legend Michael Douglas was awarded the prestigious Prince Rainier III Award by Prince Albert II of Monaco during the Princess Grace Foundation-USA’s 40th Anniversary Gala in New York. The glamorous evening celebrated four decades of supporting emerging talent in theatre, dance, and film, with Douglas receiving the night’s highest honour.

The milestone awards ceremony was held on 23rd October at The Pierre in Manhattan, celebrating 40 years of grant-making by the Princess Grace Foundation USA. 

Prince Albert with the Princess Grace Awards winners dance class of 2023, photo credit: Luiza Pikora

In a touching moment, Prince Albert II personally presented Douglas with the award, speaking of the actor’s longstanding connection to Monaco’s princely family. “Michael and his family’s commitment to philanthropy echoes my family’s own dedication,” said Prince Albert. “I am delighted to present him with this year’s Prince Rainier III Award.”

Douglas was visibly moved, saying, “What an incredible honour it is to be the recipient of this year’s Prince Rainier III Award.  I’ve always been a fan of Grace Kelly’s iconic screen work – as were my parents – and I cherished learning about my dad’s friendship with Princess Grace during their Hollywood days and beyond.  I’m humbled to have had the opportunity to continue that family friendship with Prince Albert II of Monaco over the years.  And so, to receive this esteemed award is extraordinarily special.”

From left to right: Dylan, Michael and Cameron Douglas. Photo credit: Patrick McMullen

The gala attracted stars from the worlds of theatre, film, and dance. It also celebrated the 2023 and 2024 Princess Grace Award winners, recognising their artistic contributions and potential.

The event featured performances including the song ‘I want to go to Monaco’ by Carly Hughes, previously performed by Liza Minelli at the 1985 Princes Grace Awards Gala, and the live auction of a rare Cartier necklace worn by Princess Grace, highlighting the timeless allure of Monaco’s legacy.

Carly Huges performing during the 40th anniversary gala. Photo credit: Patrick McMullen

Reflecting on the foundation’s milestone anniversary and the 900+ grants given since it was established, its president, Diana Kemppainen, said, “To honour the outstanding artistry and give-back of the legendary Michael Douglas and The Douglas Foundation at such a milestone event, marking the 40th anniversary for the Princess Grace Foundation, is extraordinary on so many levels. We are honoured to host a legendary event celebrating luminaries whose giving will continue to foster future talent for generations to come.”

Among the guests were Prince Albert II’s daughter, the actress and singer Jazmin Grace Grimaldi.

Prince Albert II with John Lehman, Chairman, PGF Board of Trustees (right) and Princess Grace Foundation USA President Diana Kemppainen (left). Photo credit: Patrick McMullen

Michael Douglas is donating his grant to The Douglas Foundation, founded by actors Kirk Douglas and his wife Anne Buydens Douglas in 1964. Its mission is to support a variety of causes, including healthcare, education, the arts, and improving the welfare of children. 

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 of Prince Albert II with Michael Douglas during the gala awards ceremony, credit: Patrick McMullen

National Council officially passes 2024 Amending Budget

by: Stephanie Horsman
24/10/2024

Monaco’s National Council has given the green light to the 2024 Amending Budget. President Thomas Brezzo has called the development “a signal of shared confidence” following months of conflict between the Council and the Monaco Government. The budget was previously rejected in June.

The Principality’s National Council signed off on the 2024 Amending Budget on 15th October after several months of bad blood between the government and the elected body. 

At the end of the public session, the final vote tallied 12 in favour, six against and three abstentions, sending a strong message that the Council and the government must join hands and reject the air of mistrust that has recently been cultivated. 

“This positive vote must resonate as a signal of shared confidence, of willingness to work together within the framework of this renewed institutional partnership, and you must hear this message as an outstretched hand that must make it possible to overcome the culture of adversity that has developed far too insidiously between our two institutions in recent years,” said National Council President Thomas Brezzo in an open statement to the government and aired in full on social media channels. 

Brezzo also stressed the importance of transparency and trust between the two bodies, noting, “It is through actions that we will determine whether we were right to place our trust in you and whether we will maintain it for the upcoming deadlines.” 

In rejecting the initial budget back in June, Brezzo had said that the government’s budget announcements did not live up to the “promises that had been made”, and that “elected officials found themselves in a situation where they had no choice but to vote against this budget”.

A healthy surplus to maintain

Monaco is by no means in danger of falling into debt imminently. With a comfortable €2.25 billion in the coffers, the country is fiscally healthy, but care with funds is essential for this situation to continue—a fact both the Council and the government are acutely aware of. 

The country faces growing vulnerabilities, including reduced construction activity, which has led to lower VAT revenue, and its recent placement on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List. This list highlights jurisdictions under increased monitoring due to shortcomings in their efforts to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing. 

See more: Monaco added to money laundering ‘grey list’

Monaco’s Minister of State Didier Guillaume has publicly echoed these concerns, saying, “Without new revenues and without strict control of expenditure, the state would find itself facing a structural deficit, which is unthinkable for the Principality.” 

The passing of the 2024 Amended Budget marks a crucial moment for Monaco, underscoring the importance of collaboration between the government and the National Council in securing the Principality’s financial future. 

Read related:

Monaco government “takes note” of 2024 budget rejection, vows to push on

 

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: National Council of Monaco