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Month: April 2025

Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene congratulate first aid graduates at Monaco Red Cross ceremony

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
09/04/2025

In a show of support for the 1,300 newly qualified first responders, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene attended the Monaco Red Cross first aid graduation ceremony at the Rainier III Auditorium earlier this week, where they congratulated the graduates and honoured them for their dedication to public service.

Following the General Assembly of the Monaco Red Cross on 7th April, the Princely Couple, who serve as President and Vice-President of the organisation, personally awarded certificates and special recognition to graduates from across the Principality. Dr Liberatore, First Aid and Training Manager at the Monaco Red Cross, accompanied the Prince and Princess.

In a display of their ongoing support for humanitarian efforts, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene presented special prizes to standout graduates, including the top three first aid students from Collège Charles III, François d’Assise-Nicolas Barré and the International School of Monaco. The ceremony also recognised exceptional performers from the civil service and Police Academy, as well as various private sector and community organisations.

This year’s ceremony marks a significant milestone for the Monaco Red Cross, which trained more than 5,000 people in first aid techniques during 2024 — a figure that has doubled over the past four years. The majority of the 1,301 graduates received PSC1 certification, the foundation level of first aid training.

Looking ahead to 2025, the organisation has announced plans to develop training programmes for people with disabilities, promoting greater inclusion in emergency response capabilities. The Monaco Red Cross will also continue its focus on educating younger generations about the importance of life-saving skills.

The graduation ceremony not only celebrates the newly certified first responders but also pays tribute to the dedicated volunteers and trainers whose efforts strengthen the safety of the Principality.

Those interested in joining the next generation of first aid responders can find information and registration details for online training here.

To see more photographs from the ceremony, click on the images below:

Read related:

Photos: Princess Charlene leads the charge for safer, cleaner streets at Road Safety Day

 

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

 

Photos credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco / P. Fitte / Monaco Red Cross

Nice increases crackdown on holiday rentals, as Estrosi announces strict new measures 

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
09/04/2025

Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi has unveiled sweeping new regulations aimed at controlling the increase of short-term tourist rentals, targeting platforms such as Airbnb in a bold move meant to protect residents’ access to housing in the tourist hotspot. 

“I will not allow the people of Nice to be prevented from living in Nice! The neighbourhoods of Les Musiciens, Vieux-Nice, or the Promenade des Anglais will not be handed over to investors alone,” declared Estrosi on his official social media account.

The statistics paint a concerning picture for locals, with Nice currently hosting approximately 13,600 short-term rental listings, representing 6% of the city’s housing stocks – twice the rate of much larger cities like Marseille or Paris, which stand at 3%.

Four key sectors of the city, according to the mayor, have been identified as most severely impacted, with 70% of their housing units now owned by professional investors rather than individual homeowners. These include Vieux Nice, the area from Riquier to the port and Mont Boron, the city centre and the western area around Promenade des Anglais. These neighbourhoods have experienced a 7% population decline. 

Source: Ville de Nice

The comprehensive plan, set to be submitted for approval at the municipality council meeting in mid-May includes: introduction of quotas in the most affected neighbourhoods, with temporary authorisations limited to 50%, an annual quota of between 600-700 authorisations across all sectors, reduction in the duration of temporary authorisations – from six years to three years, and a decrease in the maximum number of days a primary residence can be rented out as a furnished tourist accommodation, from 120 days per year to 90 days.

Additional regulations will include mandatory energy performance diagnostics, signed declarations, compensation principles and a mixed rentals program allowing properties to be rented to students for nine months and tourists for three summer months – a scheme that will now become permanent. 

Time frames and reactions 

The major outlined a two-phase implementation plan: by mid-may 2025, a proposal will be presented to the municipal council to lower the threshold for primary residence rentals to 90 days, followed by stricter regulations, prepared jointly by the City and the Metropolitan area, by autumn 2025.

Enforcement will be handled by a dedicated team of seven sworn agents from the Housing Protection Mission, empowered to implement increased sanctions up to €100,000 (up from €50,000), with penalties issued by the judicial court. The city now also has authority to issue administrative fines directly.

Airbnb rental platform showing holiday rental opportunities in Nice

According to Nice Matin, when questioned about whether seven agents would be sufficient for monitoring nearly 14,000 properties, Estrosi responded,”We will recruit more, if necessary, but I would like to think that people increasingly want to respect the law today.”

However, ecological municipal councillor Juliette Chesnel-Le Roux expressed concerns about enforcement capacity in comments to Le Figaro, saying,”Finally, some aggressive announcements. However, there will be a shortage in terms of controls—seven agents for 15,000 accommodations, we won’t be able to manage. They should be able to find additional agents…”

These new measures position Nice at the forefront of French cities attempting to address the challenges posed by the explosive growth of short-term rental platforms, seeking to achieve a balance between tourism interests and the needs of local residents. 

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

Main photo source: Ville de Nice

 

“The Godfather of Cinema”: Cannes Film Festival to bestow Honorary Palme d’Or on Robert De Niro

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
09/04/2025

Robert De Niro, the Hollywood icon and celebrated actor, director and producer, will receive the prestigious Honorary Palme d’Or at the opening ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival’s 78th edition next month. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose transformative performances have redefined modern cinema.

On 13th May, the Palais des Festivals will roll out its famous red carpet as the industry’s elite gather to celebrate Robert De Niro, whose relationship with Cannes spans nearly five decades and includes two Palme d’Or-winning films.

“I have a very strong feeling for the Cannes Film Festival,” said De Niro in a statement following the confirmation of his upcoming award. “Especially today, when so many things in the world separate us, Cannes brings us together: storytellers, filmmakers, admirers and friends. It’s like we’re coming home.”

A legacy still in the making

Few actors have left as profound a mark on cinema as 81-year-old De Niro. From his early collaborations with Brian De Palma to his legendary partnership with Martin Scorsese, De Niro has crafted a filmography that has redefined American cinema, earning him two Academy Awards and a place among cinema’s greatest.

His breakthrough came with Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather Part II (1974), where he stepped into the shoes of Marlon Brando to play the young Vito Corleone. The performance earned him his first Academy Award.

His unique approach to acting shone through in his iconic performance in Taxi Driver, which helped secure the film’s Palme d’Or win at Cannes in 1976. The film’s legendary mirror scene, featuring De Niro’s improvised “You talkin’ to me?” monologue, remains one of cinema’s most recognised moments nearly 50 years later.

De Niro’s commitment to his roles, though, is what truly made him a Hollywood legend. For Taxi Driver, he obtained an actual New York taxi driver’s licence. For Raging Bull (1980), which secured him a second Oscar, he learned to box professionally before gaining 30 kilos to portray boxer Jake LaMotta in his later years.

Robert De Niro’s close relationship with Cannes

The actor’s relationship with Cannes has been significant. Besides presenting Taxi Driver at the 1976 festival alongside Bernardo Bertolucci’s 1900, he returned ten years later with Roland Joffé’s The Mission, which also claimed the Palme d’Or. In 2011, he served as President of the Jury, while his most recent appearance on the Croisette came in 2023, when he reunited with Martin Scorsese for Killers of the Flower Moon.

Beyond his on-screen achievements, De Niro is also known for his civic and political engagement. In 2002, he established the Tribeca Film Festival following the September 11 attacks, revitalising his wounded hometown neighbourhood.

The 78th Cannes Film Festival, which runs from 13th to 24th May, will feature Juliette Binoche as Jury President. Following the opening ceremony, De Niro will meet with festival attendees during a masterclass scheduled for 14th May at the Debussy Theatre.

Read related:

Monte-Carlo Television Festival to present actress Robin Wright with top honour

 

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

Photo credit: Brigitte Lacombe, via Festival de Cannes

Taxis de Monaco launches new app, easing booking services for clients

by: Stephanie Horsman
09/04/2025

As the summer season approaches, and with it the busiest time of year for Monaco’s official taxi service, Taxis de Monaco has launched a new app, offering users a faster and more convenient way to book rides across the Principality.

Developed by a local startup supported by business incubator Monaco Boost, the Taxi Monaco app — available to download since 8th April — builds on the established Taxis de Monaco brand and its recognisable logo.

The app is also part of the Extended Monaco initiative, a drive to encourage the uptake of digital technologies among local businesses and services in a bid to improve experiences and elevate user interactions. It enables customers to order and book taxis easily, track their rides in real time, communicate directly with drivers and complete payments securely through their mobile devices.

See more: Taxis de Monaco boosts summer service with new all-electric fleet

Designed for efficiency and convenience, the Taxi Monaco app brings a modern touch to the traditional taxi service, catering to the needs of both residents and international visitors. It was made possible through the commitment of the Association of Independent Taxi Operators of Monaco (A.E.T.I.M.) to provide a high-quality customer experience in line with global standards and the expectations of a discerning clientele.

In tandem with the app, the refreshed www.taximonaco.mc website serves as an additional way to reserve local taxi hires. The site features a user-friendly platform with services such as a fare calculator and additional information about the taxi network.

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

 

Photo source: Monaco Communications Department

 

Navy SEAL-inspired 4x4x48 Challenge in support of Princess Charlene Foundation is back

by: Stephanie Horsman
09/04/2025

A gruelling round-the-clock event set to push runners to the limits of their physical strength and mental determination is coming to Monaco this Friday. Inspired by the formidable former Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete David Goggins, the 4x4x48 Challenge will see participants put through their paces as they raise funds for the charitable projects and programmes of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. 

The 48-hour non-stop race challenges participants to run 6.5 kilometres every four hours for two days straight, starting at 8pm on Friday 11th April. That means 12 runs between then and the evening of Sunday 13th April – an intense test of physical and mental mettle for any athlete.

There are no limitations on the ability of those taking part. You can be a seasoned runner or someone simply looking to make a difference and contribute to a meaningful cause. Whether you complete every run on the schedule or just one, your effort counts. Unlike a traditional race, this event puts more stock in personal growth and team spirit than competition. Each segment begins and ends at the same location – the event will begin in front of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation offices at 4 Quai Antoine 1er in Port Hercule – with runners meeting up five to ten minutes before each start. The goal is not to be the fastest, but to show up, support one another and push individual boundaries for a worthy cause.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Foundation and its local and international initiatives to save lives by promoting water safety and drowning prevention skills. Donations can be made via the official fundraising page available here. Participants are encouraged to give what they can to support this important cause.

To register for this fun and challenging event, click here. 

Read related:

Photos: Princess Charlene leads the charge for safer, cleaner streets at Road Safety Day

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

Photo source: Pixabay

‘Monaco’s Leap to the Stars’ in the spotlight at Washington’s Earth to Space festival

by: Cassandra Tanti
09/04/2025

Monaco’s growing role in space innovation was centre stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., where a high-profile panel event hosted by the Principality’s embassy explored lunar exploration, astronaut insights and future collaborations.

On 29th March, the Embassy of Monaco to the United States took part in the international ‘Earth to Space: Arts Breaking the Sky’ festival with a dynamic roundtable event titled Monaco’s Leap to the Stars: Advancing High-Tech Innovations, Astronaut Insights and Lunar Exploration. The initiative brought together prominent voices from the global space community to highlight the Principality’s increasing presence in the aerospace sector.

The panel was moderated by Robert “Bob” Cabana, Chair of the International Space Station Advisory Committee and former NASA Associate Administrator. He was joined by Ellen Stofan, Under Secretary for Science and Research at the Smithsonian and former NASA Chief Scientist, as well as Bill Nelson, former U.S. Senator, astronaut and NASA Administrator. Also contributing were Commander Michael Lopez-Alegria, Chief Astronaut at Axiom Space, and Jaret Matthews, CEO and founder of Astrolab, who previously led SpaceX’s Dragon module design team.

Outside the Kennedy Center, visitors were invited to see the FLEX lunar rover developed by Astrolab. The prototype integrates advanced components developed in Monaco by Venturi, underscoring the Principality’s contribution to next-generation space mobility. The display attracted strong public interest, spotlighting the tangible results of international cooperation in high-tech fields.

A day prior, Ambassador of Monaco to the U.S., Maguy Maccario Doyle, hosted a reception for 300 guests to mark the opening of the festival. The event, held in partnership with the Kennedy Center, the Consulate General of Monaco, and Astrolab, reflected Monaco’s commitment to building global partnerships in the name of scientific progress. In her speech, the Ambassador spoke of Prince Albert II’s vision to establish Monaco as a centre for innovation and sustainability in the space economy.

The festival’s educational outreach extended to students from Monaco’s Institution FANB, who took part in a virtual session on 31st March with NASA education specialist Dorian Janney. This interactive encounter offered students a unique chance to explore the space industry from an expert perspective.

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

Photo source: Government Communication Department