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December is theatre season for kids

by: Stephanie Horsman
02/12/2021

Looking for something to do with the kids this holiday season? Why not take them to the Théâtre des Muses for some great shows that would make even Ebeneezer Scrooge crack a smile. 
The first show to be presented is A Light for Christmas (Une Lumiere Pour Noel). When P’titbout, decides he wants nothing to do with Christmas this year, a band of unlikely characters follow a light unknowingly emitted from him, leading them directly to his door step and turning the worst Christmas ever into one filled with wonder and magic.
The 40-minute production is suitable for kids aged two to 10 and will be playing on Wednesday 1st December at 4:30pm, Saturday, 4th December at 2:30pm and 4:30 pm, and on Sunday, 5th December at 11am and 3pm.
Next up is the classic tale of Pinocchio. In this interactive adaptation, ingenious staging combines masks, puppets, shadow theatre and magic to bring an edge to the story of the wooden boy who comes to life. True to the original, Pinocchio’s well-intentioned but naïve adventures lead him into a series of scrapes, and not even a friendly cricket who acts as his conscience can save him from himself. In the end, the love of his father brings him right, but in this version, it is up to the audience to decide if Pinocchio should be allowed to become a real boy or to remain a puppet forever.
Pinocchio runs for one hour on Wednesday 8th December at 4:30pm, on Saturday 11th at 2:30pm and 4:30pm, and on Sunday 12th December at 11am and 2:15pm. It is suitable for all ages.
The following show is The Beautiful Smooth Pear of Prince de Motordu. Set in the quirky, topsy-turvy world of a Prince who lives in a giant hat and has a flock of buttons rather than sheep. He battles with snow hens and cushions made of pies, and his life is settled. That is until the odd Princess Dézecolle arrives. Together they forge new paths and create a fun-filled world filled with jokes, poetry and song.
The performances are on Wednesday 15th December at 4:30pm and Saturday 18th December at 2:30 and 4:30pm. There is an additional showing on Sunday 19th at 11am. The play runs 50 minutes and is appropriate for kids four to 10-years-old.
Last up is a musical version of the story of Rudolph. Santa’s most famous reindeer wasn’t always such a hit with his peers and being different wasn’t always fun. The young Rudolph tries at first to run from his problems but finds that what sets him apart is what makes him so special.
Rudolph is perfect for those aged three to nine and the play runs 45 minutes. Performances are on Tuesday 28th December at 4:30pm, Wednesday 29th at 11am and 4:30pm, and Friday 30th December at 4:30pm.
For more info or for tickets, visit the website at https://www.letheatredesmuses.com/programme-enfants/
 
 
 

Nice airport to debut new touchless check-ins

by: Stephanie Horsman
01/12/2021

Nice Côte d’Azur airport is doing its part to prevent the spread of Covid and other viruses by introducing new contactless registration machines on a trial basis for two months starting in December.

As the pandemic drags its heels and with the holiday season upon us, special precautions are being taken nearly everywhere to ensure the public is as safe and healthy as possible. One of these precautions, which was heavily cited in the early days, but much less so now, is the need to keep surfaces clean and virus-free to prevent infection.

Nice Côte d’Azur airport has taken this aspect into consideration and, starting Monday 6th December, will be testing a new touchless check in system for two months to allow travellers more peace of mind on their journeys.

The system came about as a collaboration between the airport’s technical and IT departments along with those of its partner EASIER and allow passengers to check in using their smartphones.

The technology is quite familiar to most people by now. By scanning a QR code displayed on the screen, the traveller can control the terminal remotely. The passenger then inputs all the relevant information, such as airline company, flight number and security procedures, on their phone. The machine then prints out a boarding pass and luggage labels without the traveller ever having to lay a finger on the screen.

The airport says security issues have been eliminated through the system’s ability to lock onto the specific user’s smartphone via the QR code connection. This means only a single user can operate that terminal at one time. If the passenger does not interact for 20 seconds, or moves too far from the machine without completing the operation, it cancels the transaction and goes back to the start. This eliminates the possibility of another passenger taking control of a process already in progress.

Though well-received by all the carriers, only Air France and Air Corsica will be offering the service during the test phase.

“Improving the filtration of the air within our terminals, putting in place all the conditions so that the barrier gestures are respected and maintaining our continuous surface disinfection operations find with this solution an additional means of limiting the risk of the propagation of virus,” said Franck Goldnadel, President of the Management Board of the Airports of the Côte d’Azur. “We are convinced that health security will remain a major issue for air transport in the future and we intend to implement everything that could act on the confidence of travellers, ground or flight personnel, and all those who work on our platform.”

Nice is far from alone on the digital tarmac. Several airports around the globe have been testing and using similar systems. The Norwegians have made all 44 state-owned airports touchless from end-to-end. Several airports in the USA, Australia, Germany, the UK and United Arab Emirates are some of the other countries incorporating new tech to make travel safer.

 
 
 
Top image taken from Nice airport video
 
 
 
 

Salah wins Golden Foot, Smith and Alves take home legends awards

by: Luke Entwistle
01/12/2021

Liverpool and Egypt forward Mohamed Salah became the 19th recipient of the Golden Foot award at a star-studded ceremony in Monaco, as other greats of the game including Kelly Smith were also recognised.
Due to newly imposed travel restrictions in the UK, Salah could only be present for a brief time during the afternoon, as his wife picked up the prize on his behalf. To take out the top spot, Salah had to beat some serious competition including Monday night’s Ballon d’or winner Lionel Messi and prolific Polish goal scorer Robert Lewandowski.
The day was not only about recognising the achievements made by players over the last calendar year, but also about the career-long achievements of legends, both still playing and retired, within the game. Amongst them was Dani Alves, who has recently re-signed for Barcelona, all-time leading goal scorer for England women’s Kelly Smith, AC Milan great Paolo Maldini, Gunther Netzer and Gabriele Oriali.
During the afternoon press conference at the Fairmont Hotel, Dani Alves and Kelly Smith in particular expressed their gratitude at receiving the award – both reflecting on the barriers that they had to overcome in order to succeed.
Smith, England’s all-time top women’s goal scorer, told Monaco Life of the importance of winning the special award: “I think this is one of the most important things that has happened to me in my football career. It is amazing to be recognised and appreciated. When I first started playing football as a young kid, I never thought I’d reach the heights and the dreams that I have.”
In fact, as a youngster, Smith had to overcome major hurdles to find her path in football. “I had a lot of obstacles in my career growing up,” said the 43-year-old. “I was told I shouldn’t play football because I’m a girl. I was kicked off a couple of boys teams, but I didn’t listen to them, I just worked hard and got my head down.”
Dani Alves, who also picked up a legend’s award, had his own set of setbacks and hurdles to overcome. “I come from a small town in Brazil, where there are few opportunities, and when the opportunities come you have to make the most of them,” Alves told Monaco Life.
For both Alves and Smith, the importance of the award is two-fold: on a personal level it is recognition and appreciation of what they have done for the game, but it is also more global than that, as it inspires the next generation. “It’s all about leaving a legacy for young girls all across the world,” Smith said. “For me to be here today, I’m representing all those young girls, who dream of becoming a professional footballer.”
Alves added, “In the long run, the message I want to leave for the youngsters is that it doesn’t matter where they are from, or where they are, it only matters where they are going.”
As well as being an incredible personal achievement, the Golden Foot crystallizes one’s status as a football legend, serving as a beacon of hope for young, aspiring footballers across the globe; one which inspires them to overcome their own personal hurdles to make it in the game and emulate their heroes.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CW8XyRQI4Jw/?utm_medium=copy_link
 
Photo source: Golden Foot Awards
 
 
 

Thierry Boutsen honoured with special Eco Club prize

by: Stephanie Horsman
01/12/2021

Former Formula 1 driver Thierry Boutsen was awarded a special 10-Year Prize at the annual Eco Club Trophies ceremony on Tuesday.  

Thierry Boutsen spent a decade behind the wheel of Formula 1 race cars between 1983 and 1993, competing in 164 Grand Prix races, earning himself three wins and 15 podium visits as well as coming in second place two times in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans.

After 10 years racing, he retired to Monaco where he established Boutsen Aviation in 1997, a company that sells and acquires business jets. Just a year later, he established, along with his brother-in-law Olivier Lainé, Boutsen Ginion Racing, a team that competes in the World Touring Car Cup and TCR Benelux Touring Car Championships, as well as historically taking part in events such as the European Le Mans Series, Blancpain GT Series and the Eurocup Megane Trophy.

As a distinguished entrepreneur, he was honoured on Tuesday at the 10th edition of the Monaco-Matin Eco Club Trophies in a ceremony organised by the Monaco Economic Board. The event drew many local heavy-hitters and highlighted the dynamism and variety of the Principality’s unique economic fabric, both at home and abroad.

The event also rewarded other outstanding players in local business for their excellence and achievements.

Minister of State Pierre Dartout, addressed the crowd, congratulating the winners as well as the Grimaldi Forum for keeping in compliance to the health situation. He stressed that business and life can only continue as openly as it currently is if everyone continues to stay vigilant and stick to the rules, but even more importantly, that everyone must get vaccinated in order to help curb the spread of Covid.

“Vaccination and respect for barrier gestures are, at this stage, the most effective means to protect oneself and to protect others,” said Dartout. “The vaccine is shown every day to prevent the development of severe symptoms of the coronavirus. As the circulation of the virus intensifies, every effort must be made to ensure that the vaccination intensifies. It is by mobilizing ourselves collectively that we will ensure that the celebrations can take place without restrictions and that we will avoid confinement.”

 
Photo by Manuel Vitali, Government Communication Department
 
 
 

Christmas in Monaco: Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo

by: Stephanie Horsman
01/12/2021

Feel the spirit of Christmas at the Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo this festive season, where giant firs, Santa’s sleigh and sweet treats await the young, old and everyone in between.

From the moment guests enter the Hôtel Metropole, they will be transported to a wintery wonderland, filled with the warmth of the spirit of Christmas.

A canopy of stars light the pathway to the revolving door, where upon arrival a full-sized sleigh awaits, perfect for a souvenir photo or Christmas Instagram pic. Looking beyond that is a spectacular five-metre-high Christmas tree adorned with traditional ornaments and a thousand sparkling lights.  

The entrance to the Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo, photo by Konio Production

In addition to the festive décor, Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo Executive Chef Christophe Cussac and Pastry Chef Patrick Mesiano have created a delicious dessert this year: a delicate red log, echoing the magical Christmas décor, topped with caramelised cherries, on a bed of chocolate and crushed pistachios.

The renowned chefs are also offering another new sweet treat this December – waffles made from their own “secret” recipe and finished with a delicious array of toppings.

The Christmas log by Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo Executive Chef Christophe Cussac and Pastry Chef Patrick Mesiano

Meanwhile, the hotel has organised some special activities for the kids this Christmas season. On 23rd and 31st December, children aged four to 12 staying at the hotel will be invited to join in two festive workshops featuring creative decoration-making sessions, using only “green” materials. By the time they head back to their rooms, they will have their arms full of beautiful ornaments and their heads full of nice memories. 

Then on Christmas Eve, Father Christmas will come to the hotel at 6pm to ask all the good boys and girls of Monaco what they want under their tree on Christmas Day. Parents are encouraged to take photos with their kids and the ultimate jolly old elf.

For a more grown-up affair, the hotel will offer a six-course Christmas Eve menu, and another on New Year’s Eve, during which pianist and crooner Patrick Raya will entertain guests with an eclectic playlist drawn from Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, The Doors, Serge Gainsbourg, Paolo Conte and Charlie Parker. 

Spa Metropole by Givenchy, photo by StudioPhenix

Additionally, the Spa Metropole by Givenchy is proposing a special gift from their luxury advent tree the entire month of December to the first person who enters each day. The spa is featuring three holiday treatment options, which are also available as gift vouchers: Glam Up by Givenchy, Le Soin Noir Renaissance Integrale, and The Ultimate Manicure and the Ultimate Pedicure by Bastien Gonzalez. The treatments come with a gift of perfume, Givenchy Day Make-up or glass of champagne if purchased as a gift voucher. 

To see more Christmas at the Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo, visit Monaco Life Instagram: click here. 
 
SEE ALSO:

Monaco Experiences: Spa Metropole by Givenchy

 
Photo by Monaco Life
 
 
 

ASM v Angers preview: “We are expecting a tough opponent”

by: Luke Entwistle
30/11/2021

In Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, AS Monaco head coach Nico Kovac said the match against Angers will be difficult. His misfiring side will be looking to get their Ligue 1 season back on track.
Currently presiding over sixth place in the Ligue 1 table, Angers, managed by Gerard Baticle, are currently exceeding all expectations. Last season the side finished in a respectable, but unspectacular, 13th place. But the side are rejuvenated this season thanks partially to their new manager and also some key performers on the field.
It will therefore be a difficult game for Kovac’s men, especially given their recent poor form in the domestic division. “We know the statistics. The last four games in Ligue 1 we didn’t win (one defeat, three draws),” said Kovac during Tuesday’s press conference. “Now we are facing Angers, a team which is performing really well. Their new coach has implemented a new system. They have some very good individual players, and we are expecting a tough opponent.”

ASM Head Coach Niko Kova during Monday’s press conference, photo by Luke Entwistle for Monaco Life

Sofiane Boufal in particular, a former Southampton player and Moroccan international, will likely cause Monaco’s back four a lot of difficulty, especially as the Principality side transition tactically from a back three. AS Monaco are also hampered by the loss of centre-back Benoit Badiashile who, along with Cesc Fabregas and long-term absentee Krepin Diatta, will be unavailable for the trip.
Angers’ forwards certainly have the capacity to cause problems further up the field which, coupled with ASM’s difficulties in the attacking third, could make for a tough game for Kovac’s side. The Monaco manager addressed the side’s attacking issues, when questioned by Monaco Life about the low confidence of strikers Kevin Volland and Myron Boadu in particular.
“Kevin (Volland) is maybe not scoring too many goals compared to last season, but he is assisting. What is important for me though is that Kevin is a very intelligent player. A player who is giving 100% over the course of the 90 minutes… Myron it is the same. He is a young player, and he needs a little bit of time… It is the small click that we need for him. We are waiting for this, but there is no problem waiting… when it starts, there could be a flow of goals.”
Kovac will be hoping that the goals start flowing soon, as Monaco look to quickly catch-up with their rivals in the battle for the European qualification places. A win against Angers on Wednesday evening will certainly help in their fight to climb back up the table.
 
 
Top photo by Luke Entwistle for Monaco Life