Princess Charlene: A woman of many facets

07/03/2023

On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate Monaco’s most public female, Princess Charlene, and reveal how there is so much more to this individualistic woman than meets the eye.

It’s so easy to look at people in the spotlight and reduce them to a one-dimensional being, out of reach and only there for the purpose that the media and the public has given them.

This is certainly the case for Monaco’s Princess Charlene. Far from just a figurehead for the state, she is an Olympian, a wife, an animal lover, and a humanitarian who is passionate about children and children’s water safety.

Her most natural role, though, seems to be mother. The camera catches the unmistakable loving looks and gestures that show what a dedicated mum she is, beaming with pride at her twins Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella’s antics and adorable charms.

*Photo source: Palais Princier de Monaco*

What else do we know about the Princess of Monaco?

Born on 25th January 1978 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Africa as Charlene Wittstock, she emigrated to South Africa at age 12. She is the eldest of three children, with her two brothers Gareth and Sean coming along in 1982 and 1983 respectively, and her parents Lynette and Michael giving them all a solid and loving family life.

As an accomplished swimmer, she won the South African Championships by the age of 18. She participated in the 2000 Olympic Games for her country and her team came in a respectable fifth place. That same year, she won the gold for her 200m backstroke at the Marenostrum swim meet in Monaco, where she first met her Prince.

In 2002, Charlene won three gold medals at the swimming World Cup in the 50m and 100m crawl and the 4x100m relay and the silver at the Manchester Commonwealth Games in the 4x100m medley relay. She stopped competing in 2007, after qualifying for the Beijing Olympics.

On 1^st July, 2011, she married Prince Albert II of Monaco in a civil ceremony, with the religious ceremony taking place one day later.

Their children, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, Countess of Carladès, were born two minutes apart on 10th December 2014 at the Princess Grace Hospital Centre in Monaco.

What is less known about Princess Charlene?

These are the facts, most of which are familiar to all, but what is less known perhaps is that Charlene has spent much of her adult life dedicated to service. In December, Princess Charlene celebrated the 10^th anniversary of her namesake Foundation, which she created to “show children the way through the values of sport and solidarity, and reduce deaths by drowning worldwide”. Since 2012, her Foundation has supported 510 projects in 43 countries, benefiting one million people.

She has given swimming lessons to underprivileged children throughout her career and travelled extensively to support charitable works around the globe, often with her husband, but sometimes solo.

She famously spent time in South Africa in 2021 on the anti-poaching campaign Chasing Zero, despite being ill, where she not only actively participated in de-horning rhinos to save them from poachers, but spoke out about the evils of those who commit these atrocities for benefit.

Late last year, the princess took on another role, president of the SPA Monaco, laying the first stone for its new home in Eze. She is also the patron of AS Rugby Monaco.

*Princess Charlene at the 2022 Christmas gift giving event at the Palace with her son, Prince Jacques. Photo source: Palais Princier de Monaco*

Princess Charlene’s official duties in Monaco

As Princess of Monaco and wife of the Sovereign, the 45-year-old has a busy schedule of official duties, from opening a crèche and handing out Christmas gifts Monegasque children, to visiting new mothers at the Princess Grace Hospital Centre.

She attends high-profile events in support of her charity, such as the Bal de Noël, and represents the Palace alongside her family at various religious events, like the Sainte Devote celebrations.

Princess Charlene’s personal interests

Charlene isn’t all work and no play, though. According to her palace biography, she is an avid surfer, loves hiking and is a fan of contemporary art.

Her light-hearted side comes out in force in her family snaps, which she shares on social media, of moments like when Gabriella decided to give herself and her brother pre-back-to-school haircuts, the twins dressed up for Halloween, or sharing unguarded moments at home.

So, on this International Women’s Day, we wish to celebrate Princess Charlene of Monaco: a leading member of the Princely Family, a loving mother, a philanthropist, a dedicated athlete, and a strong and influential woman.

By Stephanie Horsman and Cassandra Tanti. Feature photo courtesy Palais Princier.

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Monaco yachting: Another record year for the books

by: Chloe Braithwaite

07/03/2023

Following the significant and unprecedented interruption of Covid-19 and a challenging international economy, the global yachting sector not only recovered in 2022, but thrived.

The global yachting sector continued to demonstrate impressive resilience in 2022, despite facing the ongoing fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as new economic challenges. This is particularly true in Europe, where over 60% of the global yachting industry is concentrated in the region, with Monaco remaining a central hub thanks to continued government investment and support.

After a tumultuous 2020, the global yachting industry saw an impressive rebound in 2021, with many wealthy individuals turning to yachting as a way to enjoy socially-distanced vacations. At the same time, post-Covid, there seemed to be a greater appreciation that life is uncertain and there was even greater emphasis placed on spending quality leisure time with loved ones.

The sector was valued at $8.91 billion, according to a recent report of global yacht sales, with the United States, Italy and France leading the market. In 2022, the market saw much of the same, with North America continuing as the fastest-growing market worldwide and Asia Pacific emerging as the next promising regional segment, both in yacht brokerage and new build sales.

According to Monaco-based brokerage firm Northrop & Johnson (N&J), the superyacht industry has approximately doubled in size in recent years , with many brokerage firms reporting particularly successful results in the years following Covid-19. Many of the most reputable superyacht shipyards have also seen unusually high demand post-pandemic. According to the Global Order Book published by Boat International Media, the number of superyachts under construction in 2022 superseded the previous year, with 1,024 new build orders signed in total in 2022, compared to 821 in 2021—an increase of 24.7%. These shipyards also report double-digit growth and construction backlogs beyond 2026.

N&J, in particular, outperformed the sector growth enormously, having sold over 41% more of its own listings than its nearest competitor and selling almost one yacht every 48 hours in 2021. In 2022, the company enjoyed its most successful year in history.

“2022 was a landmark year for the global superyacht industry, for yachting in Monaco and for Northrop & Johnson,” said Patrick Coote, Managing Director EU of N&J. “More yacht owners chose to list their yachts for sale with us than any other brokerage company worldwide. Sales, charters yacht management and crew recruitment were all off the charts. We were all expecting a gradual slow-down but demand remained high throughout last year and the buyers just kept on coming,”

In parallel with the strong sales of both new and second-hand luxury yachts, the yacht charter sector also saw impressive results. Thanks to consistent growth in the High Net Worth (HNW) population as well as the post-lockdown revenge travel phenomenon, the demand for superyacht charters has never been higher. Zelda Swindell, Charter Marketing Manager for N&J notes that the global charter fleet is now coming under increased pressure not only from rising demand but also due to superyacht owners who are increasingly reluctant to put their vessels out to charter, preferring to be onboard themselves, thereby creating a supply shortage.

“It’s really a seller’s market at the moment,” Zelda explained. “For owners looking to put their boat out to charter, there are so many opportunities. Charterers are desperately looking for good boats in an increasingly limited market, so it’s certainly an easier sell than usual!”

Monaco’s place in yachting

Having established its position as a significant international yachting hub, the Monegasque government continued to provide significant support to the sector. The last 12 months saw the local industry reach new heights, with over 1,400 yachting-related jobs in the Principality alone and an estimated annual contribution of over €750 million to the local economy.

“Yachting is a key part of Monaco’s commercial activity, not only providing revenue to the State but one of the major employers and a big draw for tourists,” said Ed Dickinson, a Yacht Broker based in the Principality. “I anticipate Monaco’s status as the yachting capital of the world will continue well into the future.”

Looking ahead

As for what the next 12 months will bring, industry insiders and commentators all agree that sustainability will play a key role in shaping the sector.

“New, younger clients are undoubtedly more environmentally-aware. Their requirements, coupled with increasingly-strict legislation, means that the designers, builders and crew are having to adapt to new ways of working, new materials, new designs and new technologies with less of a carbon-footprint and a smaller negative environmental impact,” concluded Patrick Coote.

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Photo source: Northrop & Johnson

What’s on this International Women’s Day?

by: Elsa Carpenter

07/03/2023

To mark International Women’s Day on 8th March, you can treat yourself to a beauty treatment and support the Zonta Club of Monaco, or join in mini relaxation sessions and beach meditation in Menton.

The Zepter International boutique in Monaco, in partnership with Swiss Merge For You, are organising a fun way to give to a good cause, while receiving something in return. They are organizing beauty treatments and make-up sessions with Make-Up Artist Gloria Siccardi on 8^th March between 10am and 6pm, with the proceeds being donated to the Zonta Club of Monaco, an association which aims to empower women through service and advocacy.

The Club was created in 1994 by 20 women who wanted to use their experience and knowledge to the service of Zonta International.

To take part in the special event, which is symbolically being held on International Women’s Day, make an appointment by calling: 00377 93106229.

Meanwhile, a wellness day is being offered at Le Cali restaurant, rue Trenca Menton, with mini relaxation sessions, moments of listening and sharing, and meditation on the beach. The event starts at 2.30pm, with beach meditation at 5.30pm.

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Photo by Engin Akyurt on Unsplash

Babek Kebab: the new fast-casual restaurant in Monaco by Riccardo Giraudi

by: Cassandra Tanti

06/03/2023

Monaco’s foodie entrepreneur Riccardo Giraudi has done it again, this time bringing the beloved Greek kebab to Monaco with his new fast-food concept, Babek.

Whether you call it a kebab, or a souvlaki, chances are you are craving one of these international favourites right now.

That’s what restauranteur and entrepreneur Riccardo Giraudi is banking on with the launch of his latest ‘fast-casual’ food concept.

Located on rue Princesse Caroline in Monaco, Babek Kebab features an open kitchen with a traditional tandoor oven to bake the restaurant’s fresh flatbreads. Customers can choose their own garnishes, from spit-roasted veal to crunchy falafels, and all the classic toppings including a signature Babek sauce. There are also some delicious sides which we will let you discoveer for yourself!

“Here, nothing is superfluous – no fresh cheese or aromatic herbs to look pretty. Just taste, freshness, and quality in a playful and quirky atmosphere,” the restaurant’s marketing claims. “Babek is the new hot spot in Monaco that will delight everyone. Meet every day to discover a new culinary genre, and generous and gourmet street food.”

Riccardo Giraudi and his company, Giraudi Group, are behind some of Monaco’s most successful restaurants, including Beefbar, Song Qi, Mozza, and Grubers Monaco, another fast-casual concept.

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SEE ALSO:

Interview: Restaurant guru Riccardo Giraudi

Photo credit: Cedou

“Coordination, confidence and cooperation”: Monaco and Andorra strengthen bilateral commitments

by: Stephanie Horsman

06/03/2023

Monegasque Minister of State Pierre Dartout was in Andorra last week for an official visit that aimed to cement the ties between two of Europe’s smallest nations as well as discuss their complex parallel negotiations with the EU.

Monaco and Andorra have much in common. Both are seen as European microstates with interesting tax systems that make them incredibly attractive places to be. They are also both long-standing principalities, with certain autonomies and unique places within the European system.

On 2nd and 3rd March, Pierre Dartout, the Principality’s Minister of State, made an official visit to Andorra and was welcomed there by Head of Government Xavier Espot Zamora. The trip came on the heels of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two states last year, which focused on friendship, cooperation and a bilateral tax agreement.

During their meeting, Dartout and Zamora spoke notably on the efforts being made to deepen ties, notably in the realms of education digital technology, cybercrime prevention and tourism. Additionally, they highlighted ongoing mutual schemes, including the fight against malnutrition in Madagascar, which they have co-supported since 2009.

“Our co-financing allows us to support high-impact operations to improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable people,” said Dartout on the subject.

One major topic touched on involved the continuing talks both nations have with the European Union to normalise their status, not as full Member States, but as what’s being termed “Associate States”, which will allow their respective autonomies to continue, but will also provide certain frameworks and protection for all sides.

At a joint press conference, Dartout raised the question of approval from Monegasque citizens on this style of status and called for an impact study to be conducted. Zamora agreed to an extent, but countered: “Sometimes, another aspect must be taken into account, which is what would happen or what will happen to our countries if we say no to the association agreement with the European Union.”

Dartout continued, “We have in common this desire to preserve our specificities. We do not wish to become a Member State, but an Associated State of the European Union. Like Andorra, we must have these differences recognised, which are the result of our history and our geography, and which are our strength.”

At the end of the press conference, Dartout summed up what seems to have been a mostly successful exchange, saying, “Coordination, confidence and cooperation… These ‘3 Cs’ sum up the spirit of our bilateral exchanges.”

The Minister was accompanied by Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Government Counsellor-Minister of External Relations and Cooperation, and Isabelle Costa, High Commissioner for European Affairs. Monaco’s Véronique Campan, Technical Advisor in charge of the Europe Unit, was also in attendance.

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Photo source: Monaco Communications Department

Photos: “To Catch a Thief” villa goes up for sale for €3.6 million

by: Elsa Carpenter

06/03/2023

The villa that provided the spectacular backdrop to some of the most iconic scenes in Alfred Hitchcock’s “To Catch a Thief” starring Princess Grace and Cary Grant has gone up for sale with Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty.

With its stunning views of the Mediterranean, Nice and the Baou de Saint Jeannet, Villa Les Bolovens would be a prize to any buyer looking for something truly special in the French Riviera, but it is the property’s unique history that is grabbing headlines.

In 1954, celebrated filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock selected the Côte d’Azur as the location for one of his most famous films, “To Catch a Thief”. It starred Grace Kelly, later Princess Grace of Monaco and the mother of current sovereign Prince Albert II, alongside Cary Grant. She would meet her future husband, Prince Rainier III, at the Cannes Film Festival the following year.

*Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, later Princess Grace of Monaco, at Villa Les Bolovens during the shooting of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1945 “To Catch a Thief”*

Villa Les Bolovens features throughout the film, but perhaps most notably in the final scene: the kiss. According to Sotheby’s, the agency in charge of the sale, the villa’s “successive owners have always maintained it in a way that perpetuates the charm filmed by the British director”.

“To Catch a Thief” would go on to win an Oscar for Best Cinematography in 1956 and was also nominated for Best Set; a node to the beauty of the location chosen for the film.

The seven-bed property, which was built in 1935, has been listed for €3.6 million. It comes with 5,000m2 of land, a swimming pool, exceptional sea views and a caretaker’s house alongside the main property.

For more information, please click here.