Life in the South of France - Ritz and Glamour in Monaco

A few fun facts about Monaco: It is a 20 minute train ride from Nice.  It is the second smallest independent state in the world (after the Vatican), and the world's most densely populated independent country.  It is the home of a super exciting Formula 1 Grand Prix race with a track that winds its way through the little city of Monte Carlo.

On the track.  This guy appears to be going the wrong way...

Men sometimes need reminding that you shouldn't wear a speedo while walking the hill up to the Palace.

Another hot day, another day of hilly climbs.  This one was well worth it with great views of Monaco's yacht-filled harbours and compact skyline.

The courthouse.  Monaco has very little crime, maybe because it's filled with CCTV cameras to watch its rich residents go about their days, so I suspect anything happening there is mostly of a civil nature.

Nice little palace - my Mom thought it wasn't too ostentatious and wouldn't mind having something like this.

Yachts, as far as the eye can see.

More track shots - my Dad is a huge F1 fan and we've all watched the Monaco Grand Prix many times.  It's cool to walk the streets where you've seen the race happen so many times.

The lavish Monte Carlo Casino.  Unfortunately we didn't see James Bond.

This was one of my Mom's highlights for the South of France - definitely worth the day trip from Nice!