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Month: August 2025

Monaco’s Brussels embassy marks 20 years of Prince Albert II’s reign

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
06/08/2025

The Monaco Embassy in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg recently hosted a reception to commemorate the 20h anniversary of Prince Albert II’s accession to the throne. 

The celebration at the embassy’s Brussels headquarters drew over 150 guests, including representatives from Belgian institutions, the European Union, and various international organisations based in Brussels and The Hague. Ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps were joined by civil society figures and Monégasque nationals and children of the country residing in Belgium.

Environmental leadership highlighted

In his address, Mr Frédéric Labarrere outlined the Principality’s achievements over the past two decades under Prince Albert II’s guidance. On international affairs, he highlighted the Prince’s commitment to environmental protection and ocean preservation, demonstrated by Monaco’s hosting of the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in June.

The ambassador also noted the Princely Government’s efforts to support the most vulnerable populations by increasing public development aid to its partner countries in international cooperation.

Additionally, Labarrere cited Monaco’s recent designations as ‘World Sports Capital 2025’ and ‘Best European Tourist Destination 2025’.

Mr Frédéric Labarrere during his speech. Photo by: Gouvernement Princier

Lastly, as Monaco’s Chief of Mission to the European Union, Ambassador Labarrere addressed relations with EU institutions, describing them as solid and rooted in shared common values.

Meanwhile he reiterated Monaco’s support for multilateralism, respect for human dignity, and sovereign equality of all states.

The venue featured displays of vintage and contemporary Monaco posters, alongside a cocktail bar and products from the Principality.

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Main photo by: Gouvernement Princier

L’Océan de Léa: paper underwater world opens in Nice

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
06/08/2025

An exciting new world crafted entirely from recycled paper is set to captivate visitors in Nice this summer, as the OcéaNice Congress Centre transforms into an aquatic realm. 

‘L’Océan de Léa’, created by renowned artist Junior Fritz Jacquet, opened to the public on 12 July, offering an immersive journey through abyssal caves, giant corals, and fantastic sea creatures, all meticulously crafted by hand from recycled paper.

The exhibition, which runs until 14th September, forms part of the Year of the Sea programme and is produced by Cités Immersives. The project aims to raise awareness about ocean conservation all while showcasing the fragile beauty of marine ecosystems. Additionally, it has garnered support from the Maud Fontenoy Foundation and its patron Yvan Bourgnon.

L’Océan de Léa exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Fritz Jacquet, a master origami artist who has been exhibiting internationally for two decades, has created an authentic underwater pathway populated with manta rays, Posidonia seaweed, jellyfish and submarine grottos.

“L’Océan de Léa symbolises the passage of time, resilience, and beauty within a fantastical and magical environment,” the artist explained of his latest work.

The exhibition represents both an artistic triumph and an environmental statement, demonstrating how discarded materials can be transformed into something extraordinary while highlighting the urgent need to protect our oceans.

L’Océan de Léa exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

Visitor Information

The exhibition will be open daily at the OcéaNice Congress Centre on Quai Infernet at Nice’s port. Opening hours are 10am to 6pm Sunday through Friday, with extended Saturday hours until 8pm.

Tickets are priced at €10 for adults, with reduced rates of €5 for children aged 5-14, and free entry for children under 5 years old. The exhibition is also included free of charge with the French Riviera Pass.

Tickets can be purchased directly at the venue or online at:https://boutique.explorenicecotedazur.com/l-ocean-de-lea.html

Visitors can also browse the summer boutique featuring books, posters, postcards, La Chaise Bleue products, and exclusive origami brooches created by Fritz Jacquet himself amongst other things.

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

See more in Kyriaki Topalidou’s reel below…

Monaco tightens electric scooter and e-bike rules to protect young riders

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
06/08/2025

Monaco has introduced stricter regulations for electric scooters and e-bikes, banning children under 14 from using the devices on public roads and requiring safety training for older teens. 

The new rules, announced by the Government on August 5th, mean that from now on, anyone wanting to ride an electric scooter or e-bike from age 14 must first complete road safety training and hold either a School Road Safety Certificate (ASSR) level 1 or 2, or an AM driving licence.

The changes bring electric vehicle regulations under a single safety framework defined to better protect young users while providing clearer guidance for families navigating the rules.

Addressing identified risks

While accidents involving electric scooters and e-bikes remain rare in Monaco, authorities have identified the combination of high speeds – up to 25km/h – and young riders as a recognised risk factor requiring intervention.

The new approach addresses recommendations from Monaco’s Economic, Social and Environmental Council and aligns with safety practices already adopted by neighbouring countries.

Schools in Monaco already incorporate ASSR training into their curriculum, which officials say will ensure smooth and equitable implementation of the new requirements.

Additionally, helmets remain mandatory for all electric scooter users, as well as for anyone under 18 riding an e-bike.

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Main photo source: Monaco government

 

Hundreds affected after Monaco travel agency collapses, leaving cruise passengers stranded

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
05/08/2025

Hundreds of customers have been left out of pocket after Monaco-based travel agency Star Croisières filed for cessation of payments on 1st August, leaving cruise passengers unable to board trips they had already paid for.

The collapse has affected at least 260 travellers, with losses ranging from €2,000 to over €30,000, according to figures cited in Monaco-Matin. The travellers had booked a variety of Mediterranean and Caribbean cruises through the agency, some of which were due to depart in the coming days.

Many passengers only discovered their bookings were invalid when MSC Cruises refused to honour the reservations, citing unpaid invoices from the now-defunct agency.

Marlène M., who had paid €7,500 for a family cruise scheduled to depart on 10th August, told France Télévisions: “We’re artisans who work hard to afford holidays like this. Now it’s all fallen through and nobody seems to care.”

The crisis reportedly surfaced over the weekend, when multiple cruise passengers began receiving last-minute notifications stating their bookings were not confirmed. In some cases, MSC Cruises initially requested full payment again from passengers who still wished to travel.

Several affected customers have confirmed they paid twice in order to salvage their holiday plans.

Early estimates suggest that total financial losses could amount to €400,000, though that figure may rise as additional claims are made.

Solutions begin to emerge

After mounting media pressure and customer backlash, MSC Cruises issued a statement on Monday evening, confirming that it would now honour bookings for customers able to provide proof of full payment to Star Croisières. Those who had only paid a deposit would be permitted to complete their payment directly with MSC.

“We understand how disappointing and distressing this situation can be for customers who were looking forward to their holiday,” said the Geneva-based company in a statement to Monaco-Matin. “Our teams are mobilised to support each customer through these procedures.”

Meanwhile, Costa Cruises had already agreed to honour bookings from customers who could present valid, paid invoices.

In a message sent to clients, Star Croisières blamed its collapse on “deep financial imbalances inherited from Covid-19”. The agency officially filed for cessation of payments on 1st August, and a hearing is expected to take place before the Monaco Commercial Court in the coming days.

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Les Enfants de Frankie reaches 3,500 children across six-month period

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
05/08/2025

For 28 years, Association Les Enfants de Frankie has been working across the Alpes-Maritimes and Monaco, with Frankie the clown as its most beloved mascot. This year alone, the charity has supported 3,500 children facing difficult circumstances. 

The Monaco-based charity has just released its six-month report, revealing how €33,846 has been strategically invested across 15 medical, social and educational facilities to illuminate the lives of children facing hardship.

“Behind each project, there are faces, stories, emotions,” the association explains, and those stories paint a picture of transformation across the region.

From grey courtyards to spaces of wonder

The charity’s impact covers both practical needs and creative solutions. Children’s homes have gained sensory rooms where young people can relax and express themselves, while an artistic kiosk has been added to another facility. Additionally, a centre for autistic children now has an inclusive space designed for their specific needs.

New basketball hoops have also been installed in a previously bare courtyard. Meanwhile, at hospitals virtual reality headsets help children escape momentarily from pain and fear, while pottery wheels support paediatric psychiatry workshops.

The charity’s innovative approach extends to cutting-edge technology: adapted computers for hearing-impaired children, therapeutic cameras for sessions with autistic children, specialist tablets, Montessori materials for disabled children, kitchen utensils designed to rebuild confidence, and even autism screening software.

Les Enfants de Frankie workshop, photo provided.

Beyond institutional support, Les Enfants de Frankie demonstrates its commitment to individual children. Young Louca, who suffers from a rare genetic mutation called TUBB3, received funding for an intensive 25-hour rehabilitation programme tailored to his specific needs.

All these initiatives fall under the charity’s ‘Actions for Two Hands’ programme, which has accompanied, supported and listened to 3,500 children through outings, activities and bespoke projects over the past six months.

Christmas magic on the horizon

The year isn’t over yet. On 26th November, the association will celebrate the 28th edition of Frankie’s Christmas. This year’s theme, ‘Dance with Frankie’, will welcome more than 1,000 children per day of shows, refreshments and gifts.

Operating from 20 Boulevard Rainier III in Monaco, Les Enfants de Frankie continues to rely on the faithful support of its benefactors to fund its wide-ranging programmes.

As the charity puts it: “Because at Les Enfants de Frankie, we heal hearts”.

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Main photo credit:Les Enfants de Frankie Facebook page.

France reveals extent of ‘forever chemicals’ contamination in national water supply

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
05/08/2025

France has published a new government map revealing the extent of PFAS chemicals – or else ‘forever chemicals’ because they never break down – in French water sources. 

From the results, sixteen communes have been found with PFAS levels that breach European Union safety thresholds, with health warnings issued in the worst-affected areas.

The interactive mapping tool, launched at the end of July, brings together 2.3 million water analyses from over 21,000 sites nationwide. It covers everything from tap water to groundwater, surface water and industrial sources.

French newspaper Le Figaro’s analysis of the official data identified the 16 communes where PFAS levels exceed the EU limit of 0.1 micrograms per litre. The affected areas span the country, from Neuwiller, Blotzheim and Saint-Louis in Haut-Rhin near the German border, to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin in Normandy, and even Cognac in the Charente region.

The contamination isn’t limited to tap water either. Major bottled water brands including Perrier, Vittel, Hépar and Contrex have also been found to contain elevated PFAS levels.

In the most severe affected areas, authorities have taken no chances. Since May, vulnerable residents in 11 communes in Haut-Rhin have been advised not to drink their tap water at all. That warning is expected to stay in place until at least the end of December.

What exactly are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances – synthetic chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. They’re found in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, and food packaging.

The problem is they stick around forever. These chemicals don’t break down naturally in the environment or in our bodies, which is why they’ve earned their sinister nickname. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to increased cancer risk, liver damage, and reduced effectiveness of vaccines.

Government promises transparency

The mapping project was developed by France’s Geological and Mining Research Bureau (BRGM) as part of a broader government action plan launched in April 2024. The initiative came after alarming reports of unsafe water supplies near Lyon and in south-west France.

The tool allows users to search for their local area and view detailed results from water testing. However, officials warn that people shouldn’t try to assess their own health risks from the data, as PFAS toxicity varies between different substances and scientific understanding is still evolving.

The platform pulls together data from four main sources: surface water monitoring makes up 59% of the analyses, groundwater accounts for 23%, industrial discharge data contributes 12%, and drinking water monitoring provides the remaining 6%.

Major changes coming in 2026

From January 2026, widespread PFAS monitoring in drinking water will become mandatory across the country, in line with European Union requirements.

The same timeline will see PFAS banned from cosmetics and certain clothing items. A nationwide health investigation is already underway to better understand how much the French population is exposed to PFAS and other chemicals like pesticides and plasticisers. The goal is to map the links between what people eat, drink, and breathe, and their health outcomes.

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 Main photo credit: Unsplash Swanky Fella