16 ° C
Profile

Day: 20 November 2024

Sailing: Boris Herrmann deploys weather buoy as part of Vendée Globe scientific mission

by: Stephanie Horsman
20/11/2024
Boris Herrmann

Just over a week into his 2024/25 Vendée Globe adventure, Malizia Seaexplorer captain Boris Herrmann has deployed a weather buoy off Cabo Verde as part of his commitment to gathering valuable scientific information from remote parts of the oceans during his around-the-world voyage.

The realms of science and sailing will converge during Boris Herrmann’s Vendée Globe adventure as the skipper of the Monaco-based Malizia Seaexplorer fulfils his environmental promises alongside his racing goals.

The German captain, one of 40 skippers competing in this world-famous event, set adrift the first of eight weather buoys northwest of Cabo Verde on 18th November, marking the start of his efforts to gather data for researchers during the around-the-world sailing race.

“With our team, we have deployed several weather buoys and other instruments like Argo floats numerous times in recent years, including the previous Vendée Globe, The Ocean Race, the Transat Jacques Vabre 2023, and The Transat CIC this spring,” said Herrmann. “These buoys are very important for meteorology but also for climatology.”

WHAT DO THE BUOYS DO?

The instruments drift with the ocean currents and record crucial information that cannot be measured by other means, such as satellites. This data includes water temperature, surface currents, and atmospheric pressure.

There are currently about 1,300 buoys in the oceans globally, with 230 of those based in the North Atlantic, where Herrmann and the other competitors are currently located.

According to Météo France’s Sébastien Péré: “The data collected by the drifter buoys improves vessel routing, helping to reduce environmental impacts. Boris was one of the pioneers among IMOCA skippers to deploy these buoys. In the Vendée Globe 2020/21, he was one of only three sailors to do so. We are pleased that he has continued to do so over the years. It is great to see that more and more sailors are now doing the same.”

The total number of captains carrying scientific devices for this year’s race has swelled from three in 2021 to 25 in 2024, showing the growing support these initiatives are receiving from the sailing community.

Team Malizia, co-founded by Boris Herrmann and Pierre Casiraghi, has a long track record of promoting ocean conservation and activism. Earlier this year, a measurement from the Malizia Seaexplorer’s data was presented in the peer-reviewed journal Scientific Reports. Scientists determined that the data collected by the racing yacht helped estimate the ocean carbon sink—a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores atmospheric carbon through physical and biological mechanisms—particularly in under-sampled regions such as the Southern Ocean.

As of 10am on Wednesday 20th November, Herrmann is in 16th place, with 195.21 nautical miles separating the Malizia Seaexplorer from the leading vessel, Vulnerable, captained by the UK’s Sam Goodchild.

For more information on the race or to watch the buoy’s progress, click here.

Read related:

“Cracking start” for Boris Herrmann as he sets sail on his second Vendée Globe challenge

 

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: Boris Herrmann / Team Malizia

Polygone Riviera becomes Shopping Promenade Riviera under the Frey Group

by: Stephanie Horsman
20/11/2024

The Polygone Riviera mall in Cagnes-sur-Mer has adopted a fresh new identity: Shopping Promenade Riviera. The rebranding is part of a strategic overhaul by the centre’s new owner, the Frey Group, which is reportedly planning a number of significant changes as the mall is repositioned as the flagship of the firm’s portfolio.

The winds of change have swept through Cagnes-sur-Mer, bringing not only a new name for the town’s outdoor shopping complex but also a broader vision for its future.

Now called Shopping Promenade Riviera, the commercial centre is set to diversify its offerings by adding leisure, art and cultural experiences in a bid to attract a wider audience.

Although less than a decade old, the mall was acquired by France’s Frey Group in 2023 for a reported €212 million. Frey, a specialist in outdoor shopping parks, has described the purchase and transformation of the Cagnes-sur-Mer site as an opportunity to make its mark on the Côte d’Azur.

The 70,000m² space currently attracts 8,000 to 10,000 visitors weekly, most of whom travel from outside Cagnes-sur-Mer. With the rebranding, Frey aims to revitalise the centre as a hub for both locals and visitors.

New Attractions

The group plans to convert the Printemps store into a 5,000m² Speed Park for families and groups, featuring activities such as bowling, karting and laser games. Meanwhile, a new Fort Boyard Aventures space will replace the Botanic store, offering immersive puzzle-solving challenges inspired by the famous TV show.

Additionally, the centre will see 30 new openings, including 10 restaurants. Existing brands will expand, and new ones will debut, creating a more dynamic retail experience. Plans also include enhancing the current art trail and potentially expanding it further.

Sustainability and Community

Sustainability is a key focus of the redevelopment. Frey plans to install 2,000m² of solar panels on-site and improve the complex’s aquatic areas, aligning with environmental goals.

The centre also aims to become a community hub by offering multi-service points, spaces for local associations and retailer workshops. These efforts reflect Frey’s vision of integrating shopping centres into the social and cultural fabric of the region, with 1,800 jobs supported by the redevelopment.

Positioning for Success

In a competitive market, with rivals such as Cap 3000 in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Nice Étoile in Nice and the upcoming Opensky in Valbonne, the Frey Group is betting on its bold changes to draw crowds. Its goal is to position Shopping Promenade Riviera as more than just a retail space—it aims to be a destination where leisure, culture and community meet.

 

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: Shopping Promenade Riviera

Revolutionary design and green technology define Monaco’s A Fighera housing project

by: Cassandra Tanti
20/11/2024

A Fighera, formerly Villa Carmelha, is a landmark in sustainable construction. Completed on 15th November, the nine-storey residence features attractive eco-friendly wood materials and an innovative Upbrella system that reduced construction impacts on Monaco’s residents.

Designed by Bellecour Architectes and Gabriel Viora, A Fighera embodies Monaco’s commitment to sustainability and modern living.

“This project is part of the national housing plan specifically designed for Monegasque citizens. It’s not significant because of its size – it has just 25 apartments – but due to its ambition and innovation,” explained Adrien Le Bret, Director of Public Works, during the building’s official unveiling.

The 2,500-square-metre building incorporates a pioneering use of wood in its structure, from cross-laminated timber floors to wood-framed façades. Wood even features in the elevator shaft – a rare accomplishment in seismically active regions like Monaco.

“Wood isn’t just a material of the past; it’s a material of the future,” said Le Bret, adding that the environmentally friendly construction methods significantly reduced the building’s carbon footprint.

Wood features heavily in A Fighera’s apartment design. Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Government Communications Department

Gabriel Viora, the project architect, was instrumental in the initial design phase and explained the complexity of the project.

“It’s been a four-year construction process. That’s a long time for any project,” he said. “To put it into perspective, we renovated the Hôtel de Paris in the same timeframe, and that was a 48,000-square-meter space. Here, we’re talking about just 2,000 square meters. The constraints and experimental aspects made it a sprint marathon that never ended, largely in part to Covid.”

The Upbrella system: Minimising disruption in a dense urban environment

Monaco’s residents are no strangers to the disruptions caused by construction, particularly with the recent completion of the two towering Testimonio II structures just next door. To address this perennial challenge, A Fighera’s construction utilised the innovative ‘Upbrella system’. This Canadian technology, employed for the first time in Europe, significantly minimised the impact of the project on the neighbourhood.

The towering Testimonio II residences, also reserved for the National Housing plan, neighbours the new A Fighera building. Photo by Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

The system, often referred to as a “cocoon”, began with the assembly of the roof structure at ground level. Using hydraulic jacks, the roof was progressively lifted as each floor was built beneath it. This method eliminated the need for traditional cranes, which are often associated with noisy, prolonged disruptions. The ‘Upbrella’ system also enclosed the site during construction, shielding workers and the structure from the elements, reducing dust and noise pollution, and maintaining a cleaner, quieter environment for nearby residents.

“The Upbrella system allowed us to work efficiently while respecting the dense urban environment,” explained Viora. “It minimised the impact on neighbors by reducing both the visual and auditory footprint of construction.”

Adrien Le Bret, Director of Public Works, and Project Architect Gabriel Viora. Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

Sustainability at its core

A Fighera has achieved ‘Gold’ certification under the Mediterranean Sustainable Building (BDM) standards, thanks to a bioclimatic design and advanced energy systems. The building connects to Monaco’s thalassothermal network, using seawater for heating and cooling. Solar panels and thermal systems generate electricity and hot water, while a smart hydrogen hub stores surplus energy for communal use during peak times.

One of the building’s standout features is its rooftop terrace, which seamlessly integrates utility with leisure. Solar panels are housed in a sleek canopy that enhances the building’s aesthetics while generating renewable energy. The terrace serves as a communal space for residents to enjoy the weather and panoramic views. Planter boxes are also ready to be filled with vegetables, herbs and plants, fostering a sense of community and sustainability.

The rooftop terrace offers spectacular views of Monaco. Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Government Communications Department

Comfort and style for the residents

Sylvie Rossi, Director of the Housing Department, explained that the 25 apartments range from two to four bedrooms, all with terraces and generous layouts.

“The two-bedroom apartments, for example, offer 60 square meters of living space plus terraces. They’re spacious and well-designed, ensuring residents feel at home,” she said.

The interiors are equipped with cutting-edge technology, including in-home tablets to manage energy use, and residents receive a guide to eco-friendly living. A Fighera’s sustainable initiatives extend to mobility, with bike storage facilities and an adjacent Monabike station enhancing green transportation options.

A Fighera proved to be a successful experiment, and a blueprint in sustainable design. Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Government Communications Department

A landmark for Monaco’s future

With a delivery price of €45 million, A Fighera represents more than just an architectural achievement – it’s a vision of how urban planning, sustainability, and modern living can coexist.

“It’s not just about constructing an object; it’s about creating a place to live,” said summarised Le Bret. “This building serves as a model for what can be achieved in sustainable construction today.”

 

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: Stéphane Danna, Government Communications Department

 

Train strike to impact travel in and out of Monaco until Friday

by: Stephanie Horsman
20/11/2024
train Monaco

A strike by SNCF union members against the dismantling of the Fret SNCF freight carrier is set to impact travel on regional TER and Intercités passenger services from Wednesday evening through to Friday morning. Travel to and from Gare de Monaco Monte-Carlo will be affected.

Beginning at 7pm on Wednesday 20th November and continuing until 8am on Friday 22nd November, one in two Intercités lines and seven in 10 TER connections across the country will be cancelled as railway workers from four of France’s principal unions stage a protest.

Representatives of the CGT, UNSA, SUD-Rail, and CFDT unions say it is time for “collective action” in response to the imminent dismantling of Fret SNCF, which they claim will result in the loss of 500 jobs and the potential relocation of a further 1,200. Fret SNCF offices in Nice are among those affected by these significant changes.

Unions’ motivations

Fret SNCF is set to be replaced on 1 January 2025 by two entities: Hexafret, a freight transport specialist, and Technis, a train maintenance company.

Despite SNCF’s assurances that no layoffs will occur and that employees not retained by the new companies will be absorbed into other departments, concerns persist about the future of Fret SNCF workers and the impact on their daily lives.

The restructuring follows an agreement between the European Commission (EC) and SNCF aimed at avoiding an investigation into potential illegal state aid. Between 2007 and 2019, Fret SNCF reportedly received €5.3 billion in financial assistance, which the EC claims caused market distortion. To avoid repaying the funds, SNCF management agreed to dismantle the division.

Commuters and passengers on local and regional train lines should expect delays throughout the nationwide strike.

Although SNCF has promised that “detailed forecasts will be communicated in each region” regarding cancellations, passengers are advised to check schedules in advance before setting out on their journeys.

For updates on the situation, visit SNCF Connect.

Read related:

SNCF promises more trains and better services for PACA and Monaco passengers

 

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 by Monaco Life

Japanese cuisine and culture in the spotlight at the Marché de la Condamine

by: Elsa Carpenter
20/11/2024

From sake and matcha tasting sessions to creative workshops teaching the ancient arts of origami and calligraphy, the Marché de la Condamine’s free and perennially popular Japanese Soirée will return at the end of this month.

On Wednesday 27 November, from 4pm until the evening, the Condamine Market, just off Place d’Armes, will host a special celebration of Japanese culture and cuisine for the public to enjoy entirely free of charge.

The artistic workshops will offer sessions on ikebana, a minimalist approach to flower arranging; origami; the art of kintsugi, a unique method of repairing pottery with intentionally visible cracks; calligraphy; and mindful colouring.

A section of the event will be dedicated to gastronomy, with stalls offering tastings of traditional Japanese ingredients such as matcha tea, sake and takoyaki.

Live music, featuring the traditional sounds of the Land of the Rising Sun, will begin around 7pm. Many of the local vendors and eateries will join in with the theme of the event by serving up Japanese-inspired cuisine in the food hall.

For more information about the event, click here.

Read related:

Monaco’s Japanese Garden to host Bizen ceramics exhibition

 

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: Frederick Shaw, Unsplash