Monaco is a very small country (32 000 inhabitants, 1.5 square kilometer) with so much to offer. The streets are impeccably clean and the crime is minimal. Monaco is located on the Mediterranean coast near the French Italian border, but the Principality is circled by France and is usually considered as part of the French Riviera, yet it is it's own country. Most of the people who live in Monaco arrive by car from France or Italy, or by plane at Nice Airport (30 minutes away in the French city of Nice) and then transfer. From Nice airport you can transfer to Monaco either by car, bus, or helicopter (10 minutes flight for the price of a taxi ride and the helicopter company has a van which can drop you off in town). Another option is to arrive by train directly at the underground Monaco train station..
The Casino is one of the most grand places in the world. It's so beautiful and the square in front of the casino is bustling with activity. Do not miss the Oceanographic Museum and its spectacular aquarium, once the base of Jacques-Yves Cousteau.The shopping in Monaco is an experience to remember. The Grand Prix motor raceway circuit is one of the major events. The Changing of the Guards is also a must see (12 noon on the Palace Square on the Rock of Monaco).
