Government promotes Salines car park as ideal solution for race day visitors

With Monaco preparing to welcome thousands of visitors for two of its most high-profile annual events — the 8th and 9th Monaco E-Prix on 3rd and 4th May, followed by the 82nd Formula 1 TAG Heuer Grand Prix from 22nd to 25th May 2025 — the Monaco Government is encouraging racegoers to take advantage of the Parking des Salines, a large-capacity facility designed to ease congestion and streamline access to the heart of the action.

Positioned at the western entrance to the Principality, the Salines car park provides a practical and efficient alternative to navigating the city centre. With 1,790 parking spaces and a flat day rate of just €10 during race periods, it offers a cost-effective option that allows visitors to bypass urban traffic while still reaching the circuit quickly and easily.

Two dedicated access routes have been put in place to connect the car park with the race zone. The first is a complimentary shuttle service operated by the Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco, available to all users presenting either their parking ticket or the QR code from an advance online booking via the RésaWeb platform. The shuttle runs between Salines and Avenue Albert II in Fontvieille, a short five-minute walk from the track. This option is especially recommended for people with reduced mobility.

The second is a clearly signposted pedestrian route, taking approximately 16 minutes, that winds through the Galerie des Salines, Promenade Honoré II, Place du Canton, and Place d’Armes. Both options are designed to ensure smooth, stress-free access to the circuit without entering Monaco’s often congested core.

By comparison, city centre car parks will charge between €24 and €30 per day over the race weekends, making Parking des Salines a saving of up to 67% for drivers.

Reservations can already be made at https://resa.parkings.mc, offering visitors the chance to secure their space in advance and benefit from the full convenience of the service.

With affordable rates, free shuttles, and direct walking routes, the government is positioning the Parking des Salines as the smart choice for anyone driving into Monaco during its flagship sporting events.

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Photo by Monaco Life

Inside Méditerranée 2050: the ocean exhibition that dares to dive into the future

Set against the backdrop of one of the world’s richest but most fragile marine ecosystems, Méditerranée 2050 is the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco’s latest landmark exhibition — and it comes with a powerful message: the future of the Mediterranean is ours to shape.

Launched as part of a major, multi-year programme by Monaco’s Oceanographic Institute, the exhibition invites visitors to explore not only the scale of the challenges facing the Mediterranean but also the inspiring solutions within reach. As Prince Albert II of Monaco powerfully declared at COP27 in Egypt: “In the past, the Mediterranean was a symbol of the progress of civilisation. Today it is a symbol of the planet’s dysfunctions and tensions. Tomorrow it must be the symbol of new solutions.”

This journey through time, innovation, and hope is set across more than 1,000 square metres, blending history, science, and cutting-edge technology to imagine a Mediterranean that thrives once again by 2050.

Mediterranee 2050 exhibition is open now to the public

A legacy rooted in the Mediterranean

Monaco’s deep relationship with the Mediterranean stretches back over a century, starting with Prince Albert I, who founded the Oceanographic Institute and dedicated his life to oceanography and scientific exploration. His successors, Prince Rainier III and now Prince Albert II, have carried forward this torch, solidifying Monaco’s role as a leading advocate for ocean conservation.

As Robert Calcagno, CEO of the Oceanographic Institute, says: “We are committed to turning into reality the hope expressed by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco: that the Mediterranean will inspire us to promote sustainable solutions and practices that will better reconcile human development and the preservation of this Mare Nostrum that is so precious to us.”

The Méditerranée 2050 initiative is a continuation of this commitment — not just to study the Mediterranean, but to actively shape its future through science, outreach, and action.

Adults and children alike are encouraged to engage with the digital exhibitions to learn more about the Mediterranean

Immersive storytelling: From past to future

Visitors are first drawn into the exhibition through a series of immersive experiences that trace the Mediterranean’s extraordinary story — from the flourishing civilisations it once nourished to the serious threats it faces today: rising temperatures, mass tourism, pollution, and the overexploitation of marine resources.

Interactive displays reveal why the Mediterranean, covering just 1% of the world’s oceans, hosts 7.5% of marine fauna and 18% of flora, making it a biodiversity hotspot even richer than the Great Barrier Reef. Yet, forecasts warn that by 2050, 580 million people will live in countries bordering this sea, a demographic surge that heightens pressures on fragile ecosystems.

The exhibition challenges visitors to view this crossroads not as a harbinger of doom but as a call to action — a moment to dare, as Prince Albert I once did, to pursue what others considered utopian. As Robert Calcagno puts it: “Utopia is simply what has not yet been tried.”

Oceano Odyssey at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

A cinematic dive into 2050: Oceano Odyssey

The heart of the exhibition lies in the spectacular Oceano Odyssey. Here, visitors embark aboard a virtual submersible on a breathtaking voyage to the year 2050. Through a colossal 310m² projection and a hyper-realistic soundscape, guests are plunged into a regenerated Mediterranean Sea, where marine protected areas (MPAs) flourish, sperm whales breach the surface, and the lush Posidonia meadows thrive once more.

“This is where we show the payoff,” Pierre-Antoine Gérard, Chief Heritage Curator, told Monaco Life during a personalised tour of the exhibition. “A preserved, regenerated Mediterranean is possible—and it’s beautiful.”

The cinematic journey resonates even more deeply in the historic halls of the Oceanographic Museum, a century-old guardian of the Mediterranean.

Using digital technology to educate and raise awareness is a key aspect of this year’s exhibition

Education through interaction

Throughout Méditerranée 2050, every section is designed for interaction. In the Oceanomania Room, a motion-activated sperm whale sculpture enchants younger visitors. Children step into the shoes of marine park managers in a serious game, learning through play the importance of decision-making in protecting marine ecosystems.

Parents are encouraged to actively guide their children through the exhibits, turning the visit into a collaborative experience. The journey culminates in My Oceano Med, a reflective space where visitors make choices about the ocean’s future and immediately see the consequences of their actions through dynamic simulations.

The exhibition powerfully reinforces one simple message: individual actions matter. Citizens, businesses, and policymakers each have a role to play in reaching the ’30×30′ goal of protecting 30% of the Mediterranean by 2030.

The exhibition embraces the historic beautify of the museum

Dive deeper with virtual reality

A special highlight of Méditerranée 2050 is the new Immer(sea)ve 360° virtual reality experience. As explained by Tiziana Caporale, Head of the Education and Outreach Department, visitors don VR headsets and embark on an underwater dive through thriving marine ecosystems.

“We wanted people not just to watch, but to swim through the Mediterranean as if they were truly diving,” she told Monaco Life. “You encounter Posidonia meadows, dolphins, whales—and you experience firsthand why conservation matters.”

This next-generation experience simulates the feeling of diving, offering a deeply immersive way to understand the stakes involved in ocean conservation. It is available for a small additional fee, and for many, it will be the most powerful memory of their visit.

A global model for sustainable ocean management

Through Méditerranée 2050, the Oceanographic Institute reaffirms Monaco’s commitment to the ocean and to the Mediterranean’s future. The museum is also playing a pivotal role in broader initiatives like the Aquariums and Museums of the Mediterranean Initiative (IAMM 30×30), Monaco Explorations, and partnerships with regional organisations to promote marine conservation across the entire basin.

This exhibition is not merely about raising awareness; it is about rallying collective ambition, providing concrete steps for action, and reigniting the spirit of hope.

As HSH Prince Albert II reminds us: “The Mediterranean must be tomorrow the symbol of new solutions.”

Thanks to Méditerranée 2050, that future now feels within reach — a future shaped by courage, science, cooperation, and the enduring human spirit to protect the treasures of our shared world.

See more in Cassandra Tanti’s video reel below…

 

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Monaco’s ambassadors gather for annual diplomatic conference at Hôtel Hermitage

Monaco’s Department of External Relations and Cooperation welcomed the Principality’s ambassadors for their traditional diplomatic conference at the Hôtel Hermitage on the 23rd and 24th April 2025. Sixteen ambassadors representing Monaco’s interests around the world were present for this important two-day meeting.

This year’s conference was chaired by Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Minister of State ad interim and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, who opened proceedings by reaffirming the Principality’s core values on the international stage. “The Principality’s international action is based on values upheld by H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince: peace, first and foremost, as the guarantee of security and the well-being of peoples; respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, universal principles defended with determination; and international solidarity, essential to meet global challenges, whether environmental, political, or economic,” she said.

Throughout the two days of exchanges, key issues were addressed, including an economic update on the Principality by Pierre-André Chiappori, Minister of Finance and Economy; Monaco’s environmental commitments presented by Céline Caron-Dagioni, Minister of Public Works, the Environment and Urban Planning; and an update on Monaco’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, shared by Mireille Martini, General Commissioner of Monaco Pavilion (via videoconference), and Didier Gamerdinger, Ambassador of Monaco to Japan.

The conference concluded with a presentation of Monaco’s international cooperation achievements from 2022 to 2024, as well as the announcement of strategic priorities for the next cycle. Ambassadors then enjoyed a visit to the Grimaldi Forum, where they explored the venue’s achievements over the past 25 years and discovered its impressive new extension, a milestone that reflects Monaco’s growing international and cultural footprint.

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Photo source: Government Communication Department

Black Eyed Peas to ignite Monaco GP festivities with exclusive performance

Monaco’s Grand Prix weekend is getting a serious jolt of energy this May, as the Big Art Festival brings the Black Eyed Peas to town for an up-close-and-personal concert over dinner at the Sporting Monte-Carlo on the 23rd.

With hits like I Gotta Feeling, Where Is the Love?, and Boom Boom Pow, the Black Eyed Peas have been part of the global pop soundtrack for more than 20 years. Known for their high-energy shows and crowd-pleasing anthems, the group is expected to bring serious party vibes to what promises to be a lively start to Grand Prix weekend.

The Big Art Festival promises an intimate concert and dinner in the elegant Sporting Monte-Carlo

Joining the lineup is Craig David, who’ll bring a dose of early 2000s nostalgia with tracks like 7 Days and Fill Me In. With his laid-back style and unmistakable voice, he’s set to add a cool, soulful edge to the night’s entertainment.

The Sporting Monte-Carlo, one of Monaco’s most iconic venues, will set the scene for the evening. With its glamorous setting and fine dining, it offers the kind of backdrop where world-famous acts and multi-course meals go hand in hand.

Jason Derulo performing at the Big Art Festival gala in the Salle Empire of the Hôtel de Paris in Monaco in September 2024

This event follows the success of last year’s Big Art Festival gala, which featured an electrifying performance by Jason Derulo at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo during the Monaco Yacht Show. The 2024 gala captivated attendees with its blend of luxury and high-energy entertainment, setting a high bar for this year’s festivities. 

Tickets for this exclusive gala are available by reservation only, ranging from €1,200 to €5,000 per person, ensuring an intimate gathering of distinguished guests. With its unique combination of luxury, top-tier entertainment, and a vibrant party atmosphere, the Big Art Festival is redefining Monaco’s social scene, making this event a key highlight of the Grand Prix weekend.

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EthCC[8] heads to Cannes amid pivotal moment for Ethereum’s global evolution

World Artificial Intelligence Cannes Festival

Ethereum enthusiasts, industry leaders, and innovators from around the world are set to gather in Cannes this summer for EthCC[8], Europe’s largest annual Ethereum conference, taking place from 30th June to 3rd July at the iconic Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

This year’s edition marks a major milestone not only for the event itself — being hosted in Cannes for the first time — but also for Ethereum’s position in the broader financial and technological landscape. With major players like Robinhood, PayPal, and Worldcoin stepping forward as key supporters, EthCC[8] underscores the growing mainstream confidence in Ethereum’s evolving infrastructure.

The conference comes at a particularly exciting time for Ethereum, as anticipation builds around the upcoming Pectra upgrade, scheduled for later this year. Designed to significantly enhance scalability and efficiency, Pectra is expected to usher in a new era for the network, making it faster, more accessible, and better integrated into global financial systems. Analysts are already speculating that the improvements could trigger a bullish trend, further cementing Ethereum’s role at the core of the next digital revolution.

EthCC[8] promises an impressive lineup of speakers, including Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin, Merlin Egalite, Co-Founder of Morpho, Ed Felten, Co-Founder of Offchain Labs (the team behind Arbitrum), Andrew O’Neill, Managing Director at S&P Global Ratings, and Adam Levine, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at Fireblocks. Their participation highlights the increasingly interdisciplinary nature of Ethereum’s development, bridging blockchain innovation with traditional finance and beyond.

Organised by Ethereum France — a nonprofit previously known as ASSETH — the conference aims to democratise blockchain knowledge across French-speaking countries and make Ethereum’s potential accessible to all. With workshops, keynote addresses, and extensive networking opportunities, EthCC[8] will once again serve as a catalyst for the ideas and partnerships shaping the future of decentralised technology.

For those passionate about the future of finance, technology, and decentralised innovation, EthCC[8] in Cannes is set to be an unmissable highlight of the 2025 calendar.

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Renzo Rosso and Arianna Alessi honoured at Monte-Carlo Fashion Week for championing change in the fashion world

Monte-Carlo Fashion Week 2025 continued its tradition of celebrating innovation and responsibility with a special spotlight on two of the industry’s most influential change-makers: Renzo Rosso, Chairman and Founder of OTB Group, and Arianna Alessi, Vice President of OTB Foundation. The duo was honoured at the Fashion Awards Ceremony on 24th April for their outstanding contributions to sustainable fashion and social impact.

Renzo Rosso, widely known as the driving force behind iconic fashion labels such as Diesel and Marni, was presented with the Positive Change Award. The accolade recognises leaders who are not only shaping the future of fashion through creativity and business acumen but also pushing the boundaries of ethical responsibility within the industry. Rosso’s approach to fashion combines entrepreneurial flair with an unwavering commitment to environmental and social progress.

“Creating fashion today means more than just designing clothes—it means creating positive impact,” said Rosso, accepting the award. “I believe in using the power of business to do good, and we must all be bold enough to lead by example.”

Alongside Rosso, Arianna Alessi was awarded the Positive Social Impact Award in recognition of her tireless work with the OTB Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the group. Under her leadership, the Foundation has grown into a global force for good, investing in more than 380 social projects since its creation in 2006. The initiatives span a broad spectrum of issues, including children’s welfare, women’s empowerment, social inclusion, and emergency humanitarian support.

“Real change happens when people feel seen, heard, and supported,” said Alessi. “Our mission has always been to go beyond charity—to create sustainable, scalable solutions that can genuinely transform lives.”

Together, Rosso and Alessi exemplify a new model of fashion leadership—one that prioritises purpose alongside profit. Their dual honours at Monte-Carlo Fashion Week serve as a powerful endorsement of the growing call for ethical and impactful innovation within the luxury industry.

Held from 22nd to 26th April, Monte-Carlo Fashion Week continues to evolve as a platform for forward-thinking creatives and brands, amplifying the message that glamour and responsibility are not mutually exclusive.

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Photo source: MCFW