Monaco’s municipal council has adopted a new ethics charter for elected officials, setting clear rules on conduct, gifts, and conflicts of interest, with plans to strengthen governance in 2025 through internal regulations.
During a public session on Tuesday 17th December, Monaco’s municipal council unanimously adopted a new ‘Charter of Ethics for Elected Officials’. This document outlines ethical principles to guide council members in fulfilling their duties.
The charter, developed by the Commission for Ethics and Internal Regulations, sets clear standards for conduct, including rules on invitations, gifts, and conflicts of interest. It also aims to detect and prevent breaches of integrity, reinforcing accountability among elected officials.
The charter states that failing to adhere to these ethical obligations could lead to criminal liability. In 2025, the Commission will focus on drafting a comprehensive set of internal regulations for the municipal council, further solidifying the framework for good governance.
Ahead of Christmas and New Year, Monaco Life‘s Niki Borisova has travelled out to José Ignacio, a quaint former fishing village near Uruguay’s uber-cool Punta del Este. This is a place where wild natural beauty and breathtaking views meld with exclusive parties and a lively atmosphere; it is a locale that is gaining a reputation as the new Saint Tropez of South America, and even has a Monaco connection.
Join Monaco Life as we travel to José Ignacio, a resort town or balneario in the Maldonado department of southeastern Uruguay. This once sleepy enclave is building a new reputation among international visitors, who are captivated by its seamless blend of rustic charm and upscale sophistication, making it the ultimate hotspot for discerning travellers.
Where to stay
Let’s start with the Vik establishments, created by Alex and Carrie Vik, prominent Monaco residents celebrated for their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to art and design. The couple has developed a collection of luxury retreats in and around José Ignacio that blend contemporary architecture, curated art collections and unparalleled hospitality.
Set on 4,000 acres of rolling countryside, Estancia Vik is a luxurious Spanish colonial-style retreat with individually designed suites adorned with contemporary Uruguayan art. Guests at Estancia Vik can indulge in a variety of activities, from horseback riding to canoeing and even polo lessons on the estate’s private field. The property also features El Asador, a traditional Uruguayan asado restaurant where guests can savour authentic local barbecue in a rustic setting.
In a special collaboration, Estancia Vik will host Chef Mauro Colagreco of the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Mirazur for a series of exclusive dining experiences from 1st to 5th January 2025. This event, part of the Mirazur Beyond Borders initiative, will showcase a fusion of French and Uruguayan flavours, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and Colagreco’s innovative culinary philosophy. For more information, click here.
Located on Playa Mansa, Bahia Vik offers beachfront bungalows and suites with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The property’s contemporary design, combined with its integration into the natural landscape, provides a serene and luxurious experience. Guests can also enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets in the region from here. Adding to its allure is the lobby’s unique astrology-inspired ceiling, an artistic masterpiece that captures the beauty of the cosmos and creates a magical ambience.
Don’t forget to cast your eyes up as you enter Bahia Vik. Photo by Monaco Life
Just a short distance from Bahia Vik, Playa Vik overlooks the serene Playa Mansa and is known for its bold, contemporary design and impressive art collection. Its infinity pool, which juts out dramatically toward the ocean, creates the illusion of merging with the horizon—offering a view that’s hard to forget. The on-site restaurant adds to the experience, serving fresh, local dishes in a relaxed setting perfect for soaking in the beautiful sunsets.
The incredible infinity pool at Playa Vik. Photo by Monaco Life
For those seeking a boutique experience, Casa Suaya provides a tranquil retreat with elegantly designed rooms and private terraces. Its proximity to the beach and personalised service make it a favoured choice among travellers.
Located in La Barra, just outside José Ignacio, Hotel Fasano Las Piedras is part of Brazil’s most renowned luxury hotel chain. Set on a sprawling estate surrounded by rolling hills, the hotel blends modern comfort with the beauty of its natural surroundings, offering a spa, golf course and a private beach club. Fasano is also a go-to spot for its legendary New Year’s Eve parties, often featuring well-known DJs and drawing an international crowd for a night of celebration under the stars.
Parador La Huella, located on Playa Brava, is a José Ignacio icon and the ultimate place to see and be seen. Known for its relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, it has become a magnet for the well-heeled jet set. Monaco Life recommends going for lunch and trying the famous grilled squid and dulce de leche volcano dessert. Its reputation has earned it a spot on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Look no further than Parador La Huella on Playa Brava for beachside dining in José Ignacio. Photo by Monaco Life
Located on Playa Mansa, La Susana, also owned by the Viks, is a beachfront gem perfect for a leisurely lunch or sunset cocktails. It’s also a hotspot for parties, drawing in a lively crowd during the season. This year, the much-anticipated Summer Solstice Party on 21st December promises to kick off the holidays in style.
For dinner, Marismo is the place to go. Tucked away in a pine forest, it offers a magical setting with tables placed on the sand and surrounded by open fires. The combination of the starry sky, the glow of the flames and rustic fire-cooked dishes makes for an unforgettable experience.
Nothing beats the beach/forest setting of Marismo. Photo by Monaco Life
For wine lovers, Solera Vinos y Tapas is a cosy wine bar and restaurant that has become a beloved spot in José Ignacio. Known for its carefully curated selection of regional wines and delicious tapas-style dishes, it’s the ideal spot for an intimate evening. The charm of Solera goes beyond its offerings—its owner, Sole, is almost always on hand, greeting guests with warmth and ensuring everyone feels right at home.
Specialising in Nikkei cuisine, Osaka expertly blends Japanese and Peruvian flavours in a chic, modern setting. Known for its innovative approach to fresh, local seafood, the restaurant’s sushi and ceviche are standout options. Monaco Life recommends trying their signature Tiradito de Pejerrey.
Uruguay wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the legendary Francis Mallmann, whose Restaurante Garzón has been a cornerstone of the country’s culinary scene since 2003. Located in the tranquil village of Garzón, 14 miles from José Ignacio, the restaurant features Mallmann’s signature open-fire cooking. With boutique accommodations on-site, it offers guests the perfect way to immerse themselves in the serene Uruguayan countryside.
St Paul’s Anglican Church in Monaco has launched the Prayer Bear initiative, a heartwarming project aimed at bringing comfort and hope to local families, children in need, and those in foster care by providing cuddly toy bears, each accompanied by a handwritten prayer as a symbol of compassion and friendship.
The initiative, spearheaded by St. Paul’s Anglican Church, is dedicated to spreading joy and kindness to those in need, whether during a hospital stay or times of difficulty or loneliness.
Since its inception, the Prayer Bear initiative has made a profound impact, offering solace to numerous individuals of all ages.
Each teddy, a plush bear made by UK manufacturer Warmies, represents a tangible expression of care and is inscribed with “God is Love” in English, alongside “Dieu est Amour” in French. The bears are scented with soothing lavender and filled with high-quality, all-natural buckwheat filling. They can be microwaved for warmth, providing additional comfort.
With the festive season approaching, this is a perfect opportunity for locals and Monaco residents to embrace the spirit of giving. By supporting the project, donors help ensure that these symbolic gifts continue to provide reassurance, tenderness, and hope during difficult times. All proceeds benefit St Vincent de Paul, a Catholic charity supporting the less fortunate.
Visit the Prayer Bear initiative website by clicking here to learn more about the project or make a donation. Your contribution, big or small, will help ensure that these bears continue to bring warmth and comfort to those who need it most.
Legendary guitarist Eric Clapton will return to France in 2025 for two highly anticipated concerts: one at the Accor Arena in Paris in May and a second at Nice’s Palais Nikaïa in June. Here are all the details.
Local fans of the iconic guitarist and singer-songwriter will soon have the chance to see Eric Clapton live on the Riviera.
On 2nd June, the English music legend will perform at the Palais Nikaïa in the west of Nice. This venue offers a considerably more intimate setting than the Paris arena for Clapton, whose career has spanned over six decades and produced timeless hits.
Clapton, often hailed as one of the greatest guitarists in history, is celebrated for his extraordinary contributions to rock, blues, and pop music. With classics such as Layla, Tears in Heaven, and Wonderful Tonight, he has become a household name worldwide. His influence is further cemented by his unique distinction as a three-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—as a solo artist and as a member of both Cream and The Yardbirds.
The Nice concert will give audiences the chance to experience Slowhand’s mastery firsthand. The setlist is expected to include the biggest hits from his vast catalogue alongside tracks from his latest album, Meanwhile, released in 2024.
The shows are expected to sell out quickly, given Clapton’s enduring popularity and the rarity of his European appearances. Tickets are on sale now and can be found here.
As part of the Princely Family’s traditional Arbre de Noël event, almost 700 children from the Principality were invited to the Palais Princier de Monaco to share a special afternoon with Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene, their 10-year-old twins Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, and other members of the Grimaldi family.
On Wednesday 18th December, children from across the Principality gathered at the Palais Princier de Monaco for this cherished event, held in the Cour d’Honneur.
The palace forecourt had been transformed into a winter wonderland for the occasion. A forest of illuminated fir trees adorned with sparkling lights and a long table overflowing with gifts set the scene, creating a magical atmosphere for the young guests. Prince Albert, Princess Charlene, Prince Jacques, Princess Gabriella, Princess Stephanie, and Camille Gottlieb welcomed the children into the Palace with warm smiles and festive cheer.
Just weeks ago, this same space hosted the military parade for Monaco’s National Day, but now, for the Arbre de Noël, it radiated holiday magic. Magicians and dancers captivated the children and their families, leaving them amused and awestruck by their enchanting performances.
The Princely Family, stepping into the roles of Santa’s helpers, handed out thoughtful gifts, including magic kits, Playmobil sets, remote-controlled cars, stuffed animals, Frozen costumes, and ninja outfits, ensuring joy for children of all ages.
This cherished tradition, unique among European royals, dates back more than 50 years. Early in her time in Monaco, Princess Grace began the tradition of opening the Palace to underprivileged children for a special holiday celebration. The idea was so well-received that Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III established it as an annual event. Over the decades, it has become a beloved custom that reflects Monaco’s spirit of generosity and community.
The Palace’s preparations for this event begin weeks in advance, with meticulous attention given to every detail, from selecting gifts to organising entertainment. The result is a magical experience that treats Monaco’s youngest citizens like little princes and princesses, ensuring the festive season remains a time of wonder and joy for all.
To see more photographs from the day, click on the images below:
Monaco is preparing to unify its public broadcasting landscape with the creation of a single, independent TV channel set to launch in September 2025. The initiative will merge Monaco Info and TV Monaco into one cohesive platform, while also marking Monaco’s exit from the TV5 Monde network.
Prince Albert II first hinted at the decision during an interview with Monaco Matin for Monaco’s National Day celebrations, acknowledging the challenges posed by managing two channels with overlapping content. “We are too small to have two separate channels competing on the same subjects,” he said.
During a National Council Assembly on 16th December, Monaco’s Minister of State, who has been charged with spearheading the plan, confirmed that a new professional and financially sustainable TV channel with advertising revenue will be established in the Principality.
“This channel will be independent of government communication, led by a professional board of directors, and funded through a mix of public and private resources,” he stated during the budget discussion in the National Council earlier this week.
A fresh start for public broadcasting
The new channel’s development will begin in January 2025 under the direction of Geneviève Berti, Monaco’s current Director of Communication. She has been tasked with preparing for the transition, which includes navigating Monaco’s exit from TV5 Monde, an international network in which the Principality holds a 5.3% stake.
The channel, which is yet to be named, is expected to be launched on 1st September 2025. It will utilise TV Monaco’s extensive technical means.
