On Sunday 13th July, the lively spirit of French culture returns to Place d’Armes with the ever-popular Apéro des Frenchy – a giant open-air gathering hosted by the Mairie de Monaco in honour of France’s national day.
From 5pm to 10pm, the Marché de la Condamine will transform into a festive hub for all ages, featuring a vibrant playlist of French hits from the 1950s to the 1990s, a pétanque court, and blind tests on iconic chansons. Known for its fun, friendly energy, L’Apéro des Frenchy has become a much-loved local tradition in the run-up to Bastille Day.
Entry and reservations
Entry is €8 (excluding food and drinks), and children under 12 can join for free. Due to limited capacity, advance booking is required via the event page: my.weezevent.com. Please note the event will be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Celebrating French heritage, Monaco-style
The event blends the charm of a traditional French apéro with Monaco’s unique multicultural flair, inviting residents and visitors to toast to Franco-Monégasque friendship with music, laughter and games at the heart of the Principality.
France is set to criminalise fatal road accidents caused by drivers under the influence or committing other offences, following the Senate’s approval of a new offence: homicide routier, or ‘road homicide’. The long-awaited legislation now awaits final signature by President Emmanuel Macron.
The introduction of homicide routier marks a major shift in how fatal road incidents are prosecuted in France. Under current law, drivers involved in deadly accidents can only be charged with homicide involontaire—involuntary manslaughter—even when they were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or without a valid licence. Victims’ families and road safety advocates have long argued that this charge fails to reflect the seriousness of such cases.
With the new offence, prosecutors will have a specific legal tool to address fatalities caused by drivers who were also breaking other laws. While the maximum penalties remain the same—seven years in prison for one aggravating factor, and up to ten years for multiple, plus fines of up to €150,000—the symbolic distinction carries strong social and legal weight.
Campaigns by victims’ families drive reform
The move follows years of campaigning by bereaved families. National outrage in 2023 over several high-profile accidents—including the death of a pregnant woman struck by actor Pierre Palmade while driving under the influence—intensified calls for reform.
Among the most vocal advocates has been Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, whose 24-year-old son Antoine was killed by a drunk driver in 2022. “I was told it was manslaughter—an accident,” Alléno told Franceinfo. “People who choose to drink, take drugs, or drive illegally and kill someone must be treated as road criminals.”
Statistics underline urgency of change
According to national data, around 700 young people were killed in road accidents last year, making road deaths the leading cause of mortality for minors in France. Some 84% of those responsible were men. The new legal framework seeks to address both the justice system’s limitations and the underlying behaviours contributing to such tragedies.
Awaiting presidential assent
While the law still requires President Macron’s signature, it is expected to be enacted swiftly, with wide political and public support. Once in force, homicide routier will redefine how France prosecutes the most egregious fatal driving offences, offering a long-awaited acknowledgement of both the crime and its victims.
From 10th to 13th September, the Yacht Club de Monaco hosts the 17th Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe, a prestigious biennial event showcasing a select fleet of classic yachts, vintage motorboats and elegant dinghies, honouring maritime craftsmanship and timeless yachting spirit.
Invited guests will admire around 100 meticulously restored vessels. Among sailboats, expect iconic classics like Créole (1927), Invader (1905), Zaca (1929), Partridge (1885)—celebrating her 140th anniversary—and Tuiga (1909), marking its 30th year under the YCM flag. Period motor-yachts include Kalizma (1906) and SS Delphine (1921), while vintage powerboats feature models like Scolopendra (1903), Triton (1908) and classic Riva runabouts. A fleet of Dinghy 12’ boats also adds to the charm and accessibility.
A refined programme at sea and on shore
Racing classic sailing yachts, powerboat manoeuvrability trials, the Elegance Parade and culinary showdown with onboard chef challenges will animate Port Hercule. The public is welcome to explore the open-air Village of marine artisans, fine artists and boatbuilders each day from 10 am to 7 pm.
Celebrating restoration, style and yachting passion
Judged by a jury led by Sir Robin Knox‑Johnston, the La Belle Classe Restoration Prize will honour outstanding restoration work. A separate elegance contest, chaired by Allegra Gucci, evaluates the aesthetic harmony of vessels and crews. Combined results determine the coveted Monaco Classic Week Trophy.
Milestone anniversaries marking the 2025 edition
This year’s event highlights two significant anniversaries: 30 years since Tuiga joined the YCM fleet and 140 years since Partridge’s launch. Both yachts exemplify Monaco Classic Week’s emphasis on tradition, restoration and maritime storytelling.
A meeting of generations and maritime values
Between races, regattas and onshore celebrations, Monaco Classic Week – La Belle Classe epitomises maritime heritage’s living legacy. The event fosters transmission of seamanship, craftsmanship and the yachting ethos across generations
Christophe Mirmand, a seasoned French prefect and senior civil servant, will be sworn in as Monaco’s Minister of State on 21st July. His nomination by Prince Albert II marks a key step in restoring institutional stability following months of political turbulence and transition.
The Prince’s Palace confirmed that Christophe Mirmand, currently Chief of Staff at France’s Ministry for Overseas Territories, will take over as head of government later this month. Known for his experience in both national and regional governance, including roles as prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, Corsica and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Mirmand is seen as a steady hand at a time when Monaco seeks renewed administrative coherence. The Palace cited his “professionalism, rigour and great experience” as essential qualities to meet the Principality’s current and future challenges.
Rapid succession follows sudden vacancy
The appointment comes after an unusually swift succession process, triggered by the unexpected death of Didier Guillaume in January, just four months into his tenure as Minister of State. Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Minister of External Relations and Cooperation, has served in the interim role since then.
While Philippe Mettoux was briefly nominated to the post in June, he withdrew weeks later, citing structural resistance to reform. His departure and accompanying criticisms were met with a strong rebuttal from the government, which reaffirmed its commitment to institutional integrity.
Prince thanks interim leadership, welcomes next chapter
Prince Albert II expressed his “profound gratitude” to Berro-Amadeï for her competence and dedication during the transition. Her stewardship ensured continuity in governance while the Palace identified a new candidate. With Mirmand’s nomination now confirmed, Monaco is poised to turn a new page and return to a stable rhythm in government affairs.
A pivotal role during a sensitive time
The Minister of State is appointed by the Sovereign and serves as the Principality’s highest-ranking executive official. The role is particularly crucial as Monaco continues efforts to enhance transparency and strengthen governance in response to international standards. Mirmand’s long-standing service in French public administration is expected to help guide these reforms while maintaining Monaco’s unique institutional balance.
La Purative is more than just a skincare brand. It is a carefully distilled philosophy of elegance, rooted in the rich soil of Provence and shaped by the clean, sea-salted air of Monaco. At its core lies a vision for a better kind of luxury – conscious, transparent, and in harmony with nature. And behind that vision is Stefan Parkes, a 29-year-old entrepreneur whose journey from hospitality to sustainable beauty reflects the values of a new generation.
Born in the Canary Islands to a family spanning Belgium, France, and the UK, Stefan’s roots are as diverse as the brand he has co-created. He spent his formative years between the coastal villages of Provence and the sophistication of Monaco, a contrast that became the foundation of La Purative.
“I’ve always been drawn to life by the sea, the mountains, and the countryside,” he recalls. “I studied and worked mostly in Monaco, but spent my weekends along the French Riviera, where the slower pace and rich cultural heritage helped me appreciate both its elegance and its simplicity. Blending Monaco’s refined atmosphere with Provence’s natural abundance felt like a natural step, especially using the incredible local produce and Mediterranean ingredients.”
That fusion became La Purative: a brand that reflects Stefan’s upbringing and deep respect for place, heritage, and nature.
La Purative
Defining Conscious Luxury
Luxury is evolving, and Stefan is at the forefront of this transformation. The idea of “conscious luxury” isn’t a marketing trend for him; it’s a personal creed born from reflection and experience.
“To me, luxury used to be mostly about image, craftsmanship, and finesse. But now, with consumerism everywhere, people ask: What am I buying? Where is it made? What impact does it have?”
The pivotal shift came during the Covid-19 pandemic, when Stefan found himself moving from the buzz of hospitality to the serene world of luxury skincare in Switzerland.
“It was a window into something I never imagined,” he recalls. And with the right momentum and Monaco’s unique opportunities calling, the leap felt not only possible — but inevitable.
Made in Monaco, Rooted in Purpose
For Stefan, it wasn’t enough to simply start another beauty brand. He wanted to create something that aligned with his values: clean ingredients, ethical sourcing, transparency, and sustainability — all without compromising on quality and elegance.
“Discovering that Monaco had three local production facilities was a revelation,” says Stefan. “We were fortunate to find a manufacturer who understood our vision and could develop our products right here in the Principality.”
A truly made in Monaco brand
Being Monaco-made brings a unique set of advantages, and responsibilities. “Monaco is synonymous with luxury and quality, which fast-tracked trust for a small brand like ours,” he says. “But with that comes the pressure to live up to very high standards.”
The products reflect those standards. Each item in La Purative’s hand and body care line is certified organic, biodegradable, refillable, and packaged in minimalist glass to reduce waste.
The ingredients read like a Mediterranean dream: organic rosehip seed oil from a fair-trade farm in South Africa, sesame oil, chamomile, and the brand’s signature perfume made from 15 natural extracts sourced from Grasse.
That scent — Voyage en Provence — was crafted to evoke the pine-fringed coastlines of the Côte d’Azur.
“Customers often comment that they ‘smell pine’ even though it’s made from a blend of floral, citrus, herbal, and woody notes,” says Stefan. “It’s a beautifully layered sensory journey.”
A Product with a Mission
La Purative doesn’t just sell soap or hand creams. It sells a message: that luxury can — and should — support global wellbeing. Stefan’s passion for ethical business practices permeates every product decision.
“We’ve eliminated all harmful ingredients and hold strict certifications,” he says. “In 2022, we were the only luxury-certified organic brand recognised by Ecocert.”
That pioneering spirit has attracted the attention of Monaco’s hospitality sector. The brand now collaborates with Hotel Miramar, Monte Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, the Monaco Yacht Club, and even JW Marriott in Cannes. Their hand soap and lotions are used daily in hotels and wellness centres across the region, and a new range of reed diffusers is in development.
Partners, Stefan says, appreciate the integrity of the brand: “They value our elegance, local sourcing, and sustainability messaging, which they can relay to their guests and stakeholders.”
La Purative was created under strict organic certification standards.
Entrepreneurial Energy at MonacoTech
Being accepted into MonacoTech was a defining moment. It validated La Purative’s place within the principality’s innovative landscape.
“I applied thinking ‘maybe it’s not for us’, but they accepted us that very day,” Stefan remembers. “The training gave me confidence, but even more valuable was the community. Monaco is small, and introductions come quickly.”
That network has been vital. As a young entrepreneur navigating a highly competitive sector, Stefan acknowledges the learning curve.
“On a personal level, everything is new — every milestone comes with a learning curve,” he says. “Building that initial trust among partners has been tough. You need industry insight — understanding competitors, procurement routines, decision criteria — to streamline adoption.”
Looking Ahead
La Purative has ambitious plans for growth. Having exhibited in Dubai and Shanghai, and recently participating in the Dubai Hotel Show, the brand is eyeing expansion into the UK, Saudi Arabia, and beyond.
“The Middle East, including Saudi, is a fascinating next frontier: luxury + sustainability is trending there, and it aligns perfectly with our strengths.”
And if he could change one thing about the beauty products industry?
“I’d eliminate single-use plastic. Travelling to places without recycling infrastructure made me viscerally aware of its impact.”
The La Purative range is available online
A New Era of Luxury
As the beauty industry reckons with its environmental footprint and the demands of a new generation of consumers, brands like La Purative are lighting the way forward. With products made in Monaco, a commitment to transparency, and a founder who leads with heart as much as ambition, La Purative represents not just the future of skincare, but the future of luxury itself.
“I couldn’t stand behind a product I didn’t believe in,” says Stefan, an avid traveller and nature lover. “Incorporating my values into our brand and products feels natural and essential.”
That authenticity is the true essence of conscious luxury — and it’s made right here in Monaco.
A nationwide air traffic control strike is causing significant travel disruption across France, with flights from Paris, Nice, Lyon and Corsica heavily affected just as the school holidays begin.
The French civil aviation authority (DGAC) has requested that airlines cancel a large number of flights departing from or arriving at major French airports. Paris-CDG, Orly and Beauvais will see 25% of flights cut, while as many as 50% are being grounded in Nice, Bastia and Calvi. Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier, Ajaccio and Figari are also affected, with 30% of operations suspended for Thursday 3rd July. The strike action coincides with one of the busiest weekends of the year as French families head off for the summer break beginning Saturday 5th July.
Syndicates denounce ‘toxic management’ at DGAC
The strike, called by the UNSA-ICNA union, is a protest against what it describes as “toxic management” and chronic understaffing within the DGAC. The union is also calling for renewed investment in long-stalled technical modernisation programmes. “We demand a change of direction to strengthen staffing, ensure technical modernisation goes ahead and place operational priorities back at the heart of decision-making,” UNSA-ICNA said in a statement sent to AFP.
Travellers entitled to rebooking or refund
Despite the disruption, passengers booked to travel on 3rd or 4th July are not without recourse. According to Flightright, a European air passenger rights platform, airlines are legally obliged to offer rebooking or a full refund in the event of a cancellation. If passengers opt to abandon their journey, the airline must reimburse them. Those facing significant delays are entitled to meal and drink vouchers, and, if necessary, overnight hotel accommodation and transport.
No financial compensation under EU rules
However, passengers will not be entitled to financial compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. The regulation excludes automatic payments for flight cancellations or delays resulting from “extraordinary circumstances”, such as strikes by air traffic controllers, which are considered beyond the airline’s control. Nonetheless, travellers retain full rights to alternative travel arrangements and must be assisted during any extended waiting times.
Government holds firm amid peak travel pressure
French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot has rejected the unions’ demands, describing them as “unacceptable”, particularly given the timing. The government has so far shown no willingness to negotiate, adding to the uncertainty for passengers already caught up in this high-stakes standoff during one of the busiest weeks in the French travel calendar.
