12 ° C
Profile

Day: 2 May 2025

Report shows Prince Albert II Foundation led a powerful year of action for the planet in 2024

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

In a year marked by environmental setbacks worldwide, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation stood firm in its mission to protect the planet, launching bold new initiatives, uniting global stakeholders, and expanding its influence across oceans, finance, education and innovation.

Released at the end of April, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation’s 2024 Annual Report offers a comprehensive look at an ambitious year of environmental leadership. With over €9.8 million invested in field projects across more than 90 countries, the Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding nature through innovation, cooperation and bold policy engagement.

See also: NatureMetrics becomes first private company to join €100 million ReOcean Fund portfolio

Blue economy gets a major boost

Among the year’s flagship developments was the continued rollout of the ReOcean Fund, a €100 million private equity vehicle designed to support scalable, ocean-positive solutions. Launched in partnership with Monaco Asset Management, the fund backs initiatives in marine ecosystem restoration, plastic pollution reduction, green shipping and blue food.

Further anchoring Monaco’s leadership in ocean finance, the Foundation unveiled the Blue Economy Index—a tool to guide environmentally responsible investment choices in key sectors like waste management, sustainable fisheries and water treatment.

Monaco Ocean Week puts action centre stage

The Foundation’s convening power was clearly visible during Monaco Ocean Week 2024, which featured over 50 events. From ocean governance and sustainable yachting to scientific panels and cultural programming, the event solidified the Principality’s global role as a driver of ocean conservation.

See also: Monaco to play key role in preparations for UN Ocean Conference in Nice

The 15th Monaco Blue Initiative addressed emerging priorities ahead of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in Nice. Other key events included the Ocean Innovators Platform and the announcement of the Beyond Plastic Med 2024 winners.

Educating future generations

2024 also saw significant progress in youth engagement and public awareness. The Re.Generation Future Leaders Program continued to train emerging voices in environmental leadership, while initiatives like Students on Ice, the urban school garden scheme, and Monaco’s participation in the international writing competition brought environmental education to classrooms and communities. The Foundation also expanded its cultural impact with the Green Shift Festival, the Environmental Photography Award and panel discussions on sustainable fashion and ecological storytelling.

High-level pledges and global influence

The Foundation’s diplomatic and philanthropic reach expanded further in 2024. Prince Albert II of Monaco personally announced a $60.8 million multi-donor pledge for Mediterranean marine conservation at the Our Ocean Conference in Athens. Monaco also became the first European and Mediterranean country to ratify the UN High Seas Treaty, reinforcing its position at the forefront of global ocean protection.

Looking ahead, the Foundation is co-organising the Blue Economy and Finance Forum as part of the UN Ocean Conference in June 2025.

A determined path forward

As global environmental challenges mount, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has made clear that retreat is not an option. Its 2024 annual report reflects a year of unwavering resolve, smart investment and inclusive engagement—laying strong foundations for continued leadership in 2025 and beyond.

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: Prince Albert II at the Young Activists Summit. Photo source: Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation

From ZIA to Guerlain: Hôtel Metropole reopens with summer highlights

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

One of Monaco’s most beloved institutions is stirring back to life. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo has reopened its doors with renewed spirit and a season of exciting new experiences ahead. At the heart of this revival is ZIA, the chic poolside haven now welcoming the wider public for the first time, offering locals and visitors a fresh taste of la dolce vita in one of the Principality’s most iconic settings. With redesigned guest rooms and a tranquil new Guerlain spa set to be unveiled later this summer, the return of this landmark hotel promises a blend of elegance, flavour and discovery.

Set beneath the shimmering Odyssey mural by Karl Lagerfeld, ZIA reopens from 2nd May to 1st October 2025 with a vibrant new concept. Breakfast and lunch are now served not only to hotel guests but also to the public, transforming the terrace into a true Monegasque rendezvous. Mornings begin with pillowy pandoro French toast and delicate homemade pastries, while midday brings the likes of Sicilian branzino and truffle-studded tigelle.

From 28th May, the atmosphere will evolve into an open-air evening affair, with chef-led masterclasses, elegant dinners, and a lively aperitivo culture under the stars.

Odyssey by night, at the Hôtel Metropole

The reopening of ZIA is just one part of Hôtel Métropole’s much-anticipated transformation. Following years of carefully orchestrated updates, the hotel is returning with renewed grandeur. While the Belle Époque lobby remains gloriously intact, August will unveil 45 reimagined rooms across the second and third floors.

These have been designed by Jacques Garcia, whose distinctive style blends rich textures, natural light and timeless elegance—marking the most extensive refurbishment since the hotel’s 2004 relaunch.

A preview look of the new junior suite deluxe, which will be unviled in August

Throughout its renewal, Hôtel Métropole has retained its soul—and its stars. Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac, which made its dazzling debut in 2024, has remarkably upheld its two Michelin stars even amid the hotel’s renovation works. Now open to the public, the restaurant invites discerning diners into a world where Mediterranean flavours are elevated to art.

Under the masterful direction of Cussac, with executive chef Sonny Dufour in the kitchen and Marco Tognon orchestrating the dining room, every dish is a study in balance, technique and seasonal precision. From the delicate amuse-bouche to the final flourish of its signature dessert trolley, Les Ambassadeurs redefines excellence, reaffirming its place at the very pinnacle of Monaco’s fine dining scene.

The elegant dining room of Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac. Photo credit: Studio Phenix

Alongside Les Ambassadeurs, the Lobby Bar and Yoshi have also reopened, once again welcoming the public to enjoy their distinctive atmospheres and culinary offerings.

These signature venues, each with its own character and loyal following, reinforce Hôtel Métropole’s position as a dynamic destination for both locals and international guests seeking refined hospitality at the heart of Monte-Carlo.

The new Spa Metropole by Guerlain will be unveiled in July

Looking ahead, the transformation continues. In July, the hotel will introduce the Spa Metropole by Guerlain. Designed by Samy Itani, the wellness space will fuse modern luxury with calm minimalism, offering signature Guerlain treatments, a Bastien Gonzalez mani-pedi studio, and full hammam, sauna and fitness facilities. It promises to be a serene, state-of-the-art escape within the heart of Monaco.

For a hotel that has spent the last few years reinventing itself behind the scenes, this season marks not just a reopening, but a true renaissance. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is back—open, elevated and more inviting than ever.

See also: 

Michelin Guide 2024: Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac earns two stars in its first year

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.

All photos sourced from Hôtel Metropole

Genuinely super: meet the Monaco club for supercar owners

by: Richard McCreery
02/05/2025

If you want to know what it feels like to chase the tail of a Ferrari 812 Competizione down a winding mountain road whilst a Lamborghini Aventador fills your rearview mirror, I can confirm that it is as thrilling as you might hope. Your heart beats wildly, the butterflies in your stomach feel like they are doing the tango, and your senses have never been more alive.

Which they need to be, when you are sandwiched between several million euros’ worth of automotive fine art. As part of a procession of supercars exploring some of the best driving roads our region has to offer, with an orchestra of V8, V10, and V12 engines providing a thunderous soundtrack, you can practically taste the adrenaline.

Welcome to the Monaco chapter of Fast Lane Drive, the club for supercar owners who love to share their passion for exotic and luxury cars with other like-minded individuals. François Willm and Marine Grapin are responsible for opening this exclusive, members-only club in 2023. It has already grown to 55 members and is just one of more than 20 Fast Lane Drive communities around the world. Monaco Life was invited to their latest event, which set off from the elegant Bastide Saint-Antoine hotel in Grasse, following a hearty breakfast and a briefing from the organisers.

From Alpine turns to photo ops

The lineup of cars included some beautiful examples of automotive magic from Porsche, McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Audi, as well as France’s second-greatest sports car (behind Bugatti), the Alpine A110, which managed to hold its own among this daunting company. The morning drive took in a variety of roads around the Route Napoléon, with stops for coffee and a chance for the drivers and their guests to take a closer look at each other’s weapon of choice. At one point, an unexpectedly closed road meant that we all had to perform a U-turn on a narrow country lane — not something you want to attempt in a supercar with more than 800 horsepower under your right foot — but everyone kept their cool and avoided the ditch. No pressure!

Each time our procession came to a small village, it was like the circus arriving in town. Children and grown men alike stopped and stared, whipping out their phones to capture the moment when some of the world’s most exciting cars trundled through the narrow streets. Drivers always observed the speed limits, although they were likely silently cursing the many speed humps — the natural enemy of a road-hugging supercar.

Outside the urban areas and back on the open road, as each car took its turn to accelerate up to the permissible speed limit, it brought to mind that iconic Star Wars moment when the spaceships jump to lightspeed. Almost 30% of Fast Lane Drive members in Monaco are, or have been, professional drivers, and they certainly know how to get the most out of a great sports car. The day’s events were carefully documented, with a professional photographer and a fearless cameraman onboard the support cars to capture every moment, and the overall organisation was impeccable, as you would expect at this level.

Lunch, laughs and lifestyle

The day ended with a late lunch at the iconic Mas Candille in Mougins — a chance to relax and get to know the other participants. This community is as much about socialising as it is about driving, and philanthropy also plays a part, with charity events providing opportunities to give back.

Philanthropy and networking appeal to those who can afford the world’s most exclusive cars, but the atmosphere here is far from elitist; it is friendly and fun. In everyday life, the club’s members are business people and entrepreneurs, but about once a month they come together to share a love of driving and to discuss the finer points of their pride and joy with other enthusiasts. In terms of pure excitement, it beats a round of golf. As well as planning regular drives through the countryside, the club also organises track experiences and exclusive events tailored for luxury and sporting icons, partnering with some of the world’s top brands.

However, this club is just as much about the people as it is about the cars. On the day Monaco Life was invited, it was refreshing to see fathers bringing their young sons to share the excitement, and a good mix of men and women participating. Traditional car clubs are often dominated by men, but Fast Lane Drive boasts a high proportion of female members, who usually spend just as much time behind the wheel as their partners. There is a wide range of ages, and the mix of spoken French and English adds to the cosmopolitan atmosphere. Membership in one chapter grants access to all locations, including upcoming communities in Tokyo and Paris.

Global access, local energy

Fast Lane Drive was started in the USA, where it has grown quickly, but it feels particularly well suited to Monaco and this region, which combines an abundance of supercar owners, spectacular driving roads, stunning scenery, and an array of refined dining locations perfect for starting or ending a memorable day.

When you buy a supercar, you are buying into an exclusive lifestyle — and that is what this club is all about: maximising the pleasure of ownership, not just through driving, but through sharing the experience with others. Although, for me at least, the driving is the part I will be replaying in my mind long after the day has ended. That kind of experience is priceless, regardless of how wealthy you are.

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.

All photos courtesy Fast Lane Drive 

‘Les Anges Gardiens de Monaco’ documentary pays tribute to track marshals at Grimaldi Forum premiere

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

The Grimaldi Forum has hosted the highly anticipated premiere of ‘Les Anges Gardiens de Monaco’, with Prince Albert II in attendance. The documentary shines a light on the often-unsung heroes of motorsport: the Principality’s dedicated track marshals.

Produced by Yann-Antony Noghès and directed by Franck Florino, this powerful and emotionally resonant film is narrated by Monegasque Formula One star Charles Leclerc. Through gripping footage and heartfelt interviews, the documentary explores the passion, precision, and courage of the volunteers who play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and success of Monaco’s world-famous motorsport events.

These men and women, the marshals of the Automobile Club de Monaco, work tirelessly behind the scenes at the Grand Prix and other key races, ready to respond to incidents with speed and professionalism. Their commitment and discipline are portrayed with humanity and authenticity in the documentary, offering viewers an intimate look into the lives of those who make the races possible.

The film serves not only as a tribute but also as a reminder of the human spirit that fuels every corner of the circuit. It captures moments of tension and teamwork, revealing the unscripted drama behind the glamour of the racing world.

‘Les Anges Gardiens de Monaco’ was also broadcast on Monaco Info, offering wider audiences a chance to experience the emotional depth and real-life heroism of Monaco’s trackside guardians.

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: Direction de la Communication / Manuel Vitali

Inspiring the next generation: motorsport icons gather at ‘A l’occasion du E-Prix’

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
02/05/2025

Against the backdrop of Monaco’s legendary car collection, a new kind of horsepower took centre stage. ‘À l’occasion du E-Prix’ has brought together motorsport stars and local students for an empowering exchange aimed at inspiring young women to chase big dreams in a field long dominated by men.

The event, organised by SheCanHeCan Founder and Director Vibeke Thomsen alongside Better Futures Fund, was held at the Collection des Voitures des S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco and featured an impressive panel of speakers, including former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard and inspiring female motorsport figures Catie Munnings, Beth Paretta, Stephanie Ensten, and Marine Prudhomme.

Speaking to a group of enthusiastic students, the panellists shared personal experiences and advice about overcoming obstacles in the motorsport industry.

Extreme E driver Catie Munnings recalled a pivotal moment in her career during a race in Greenland, when she found herself competing against her childhood heroes.

“We’d had some problems in qualifying and ended up in the worst position on the grid,” Munnings shared. “I was starting the race alongside Sébastien Loeb and some of my heroes. Obviously, I’d grown up watching these people race, so it was a massive moment for me.”

She explained how her teammate’s words helped her overcome self-doubt: “My teammate said to me, ‘Catie, you have exactly the same tools as they do. You’ve got a steering wheel and pedals, so you have the same equipment. You just have to believe in yourself and go for it.’” Munnings did just that—she passed first in the opening turn and ultimately won the race.

In an exclusive interview with Monaco Life, she highlighted the importance of boldness for young women: “You have to be bold. You have to go for things before you feel ready for them, and that’s a massive thing. I think, as women, when we don’t see many role models doing what we do, it takes a lot more from us to really put ourselves in those situations.”

From left to right: Former F1 Driver and commentator David Coulthard, Founder of SheCanHeCan Vibeke Thomsen, Director of the Collection de Voitures de S.A.S le Prince de Monaco Valerie Closier, Women’s Rights Minister Céline Cottalorda, Chloe Boscagli of the Mairie de Monaco, and Beatrice Fresko-Rolfo of the Conseil National de Monaco

Transatlantic perspectives on gender equality

Beth Paretta, known for her groundbreaking work in American motorsport and now active in Formula E, offered a comparative perspective on gender equality progress between the United States and Europe during the event.

“America is a little bit ahead. I feel like Europe right now is where America was ten years ago, which is good,” Paretta observed. “That means there’s a road map, and we can get there. Europe might even get there quicker because we can use these examples.”

Paretta also highlighted the importance of looking beyond driving roles in motorsport: “Although there have been initiatives to get women in as racing drivers, because my experience was not as a driver and was in all these other roles, I knew there were more places for women.”

She added, “Even in a Formula E team, if my team has 30 people, one of them is a driver—29 are not. And those 29 people are critical to getting the car on the track, making it faster, getting it funded, and doing all the things that make it function.”

In a powerful message directed at young women facing criticism, Paretta advised: “Don’t take into account criticism from people you wouldn’t go to for advice.”

Supporting Monaco’s journey to period equality

À l’occasion du E-Prix, jointly organised by SheCanHeCan and Better Futures Fund, comes in the wake of Formula E’s significant €25,000 donation to SheCanHeCan’s Monarègles project, which aims to make Monaco the world’s first period-equal country through free organic period products and inclusive menstrual education.

During the Monaco E-Prix on 3rd and 4th May, SheCanHeCan will host awareness events and participate in Formula E’s FIA Girls on Track programme, with organic period products available throughout Formula E-managed facilities.

The funding from Formula E will enable SheCanHeCan to deliver workshops to all Year 8 students in Monaco over the coming year and expand access to menstrual products and education to more than 1,400 people across the Principality.

As David Coulthard noted during À l’occasion du E-Prix, sometimes staying out of the spotlight can be beneficial: “Sometimes staying back in the order isn’t a bad thing because it keeps you away from the noise and allows you to focus on where you want to be.”

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.

All photos by Monaco Life

Monaco International Dog Show returns with Crufts 2026 qualification up for grabs

by: Cassandra Tanti
02/05/2025

Dog lovers and top breeders from around the world are preparing to descend on the Principality for the 2025 edition of the Monaco International Dog Show, a prestigious event that this year doubles as a qualifier for the world-renowned Crufts 2026.

Held over the weekend of the 10th and 11th May at an indoor venue in Monaco, the International Dog Show will once again welcome an esteemed panel of judges from across Europe and beyond to preside over a diverse array of canine contestants. Among the judges are Céline Bottussi-Jocquel of France, Peru’s Ilaria Biondi de Ciabatti, and Laurent Pichard of Switzerland, with experts also coming from Italy, Finland, Ireland, Romania, and Spain.

The event is an opportunity for breeders and handlers to showcase their dogs in a competitive setting and possibly qualify for Crufts 2026, one of the most celebrated dog shows in the world. With judges designated to specific groups on each day, participants are encouraged to consult the detailed program and judge allocations ahead of time to ensure they’re prepared for the correct classifications.

Confirmations, which are an essential step for dogs aiming to meet breed standards, will take place on both Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 3pm. These will be conducted by a French judge and do not require prior registration. Owners should bring the required documents, including pedigree certification and identification, along with a 35-euro fee, unless the dog is already registered in one of the classes, in which case confirmation is free.

While the event promises to be exciting, there are also important regulations that exhibitors must respect. Notably, dogs with cropped ears are no longer permitted, and entries in the Champion Class will not qualify for the CACM of the Monégasque Championship.

This year’s show has already reached its full registration capacity, showing the growing popularity and prestige of this long-running Monégasque tradition.

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.