Monaco Experience

7th January 2015

Think of Monaco and think of: a land of luxury, good food, fantastic views, crystal blue marinas and of course the famous Monte Carlo Grand Prix.

Star Clippers, in collaboration with Kirker Concierge Service, have a fantastic new cruise for May 2015 which will take passengers around the coasts of France, Monaco and Corsica before a three night stay at the 4* Port Palace Hotel in Monaco. This incredible experience will allow you a unique Grand Prix experience; with the opportunity to also soak up the sun on a number of Italian and French beaches.

If you fancy living the high life of luxury and experiencing everything Monaco has to offer, read on to find out more about what to expect whilst staying in Monte Carlo.

Casinos

There are several casinos in Monte Carlo due to relaxed gambling laws in the area and there is a long gambling history in Monaco. The most famous of these is the Casino de Monte Carlo - which boasts superb classical décor. Designed by Charles Garnier in 1863, this casino overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and features glass chandeliers and gold, marble architecture.

Cars

Beyond the famous Monte Carlo Grand Prix, you will be able to see a wide range of expensive and luxury cars - possibly down to the fact that Monaco is home to the most millionaires per capita in the world. You won't be able to walk into many hotels without seeing such a car on the way to checking in.

There is also a classical car Grand Prix in Monte Carlo - where historic cars are given the chance to race around the track a couple of weeks before the main event on the 25 May.

Food

You will be spoilt for choice in terms of luxury food here and Monaco is ideally positioned between Italy and France - allowing for you to enjoy two of the world's very best cuisines. Think delicate French pasties and creamy Italian risotto and pasta dishes and you're on the right lines as Monaco is a culinary heaven.

There are many Michelin starred restaurants in the area, which are worth trying if you can afford it and the Le Louis XV restaurant at the Hotel de Paris has the highest accolade, with three Michelin Stars.

Grand Prix

The main event and one which has made Monaco famous around the world - The Monte Carlo Formula One Grand Prix.

Star Clipper's Star Flyer sailing ship will take you right to the heart of the action on the day of the final race - giving you a unique viewing platform from the sea. Watch the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Nico Rosberg race around the Monte Carlo Riviera before sailing off and returning to Monaco on the 30th May.

Helicopter

There are many ways of getting to and from Monaco - be that by car, train or boat, but one of the more luxurious methods of travel is by helicopter and on your last day in Monaco you will receive a helicopter transfer to Nice airport.

An unforgettable experience; you will be able to see the sights of Monaco and there are many photo opportunities with several amazing vistas guaranteed on your journey.

Marinas

If you want some peace and quiet - away from the busy Grand Prix surroundings and the casinos - you can escape to one of the many cliffs where you will be able to get some beautiful panoramic views of the marinas.

These marinas and harbours are some of the most beautiful in the world and you will be able to see all of the expensive yachts aligned in place.

Shopping

Lovers of shopping can expect a lot from the high streets of Monte Carlo, with a vast array of designer outlets. In fact, it is one of the most expensive shopping locations in the world with brands such as Gucci, Dior, Prada, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent.

Once you've finished shopping, you can be sure to relax in one of the up-market, trendy cafés available.

Weather

The most important factor of many holidays is good weather and in Monaco, it is not in short supply.

All year around - the temperature in Monaco rarely drops below 10 degrees Celsius and in May, with the average daily temperature stands at 17 Celsius and there is very little rainfall.

Amazing to think that all of this can be found and enjoyed in the world's second smallest country and incorporating a Star Clippers sailing cruise around the region as well will make this Monaco experience very special indeed.

The Grand Prix Departure cruise departs from Cannes on board the Star Flyer; visiting Monte Carlo for the Grand Prix race, the delights of Corsica, Iles d'Hyeres and locations along the coast of France before returning to Cannes.

You will then travel back to Monaco to soak up the post-race atmosphere, staying at the luxury 4* Port Palace Hotel for three nights before taking a helicopter flight to Nice airport.