Monte Carlo | Hello from the Five Star Vagabond

Monte Carlo Charismatic Wealthy

November 3, 2013 by David Herd

Monte Carlo casino

Monte Carlo Charismatic Wealthy

Monte Carlo Charismatic Wealthy, they are squeezed into this tiny principality like sardines. In fact Monaco is the most densely populated piece of dirt on Earth.

Mind blowing wealth is everywhere.

The Genoese built a fortress on the site of present day Monaco in 1215. The current ruling Grimaldi family first seized temporary control in 1297, and again in 1331, but were not able to permanently secure their holding until 1419.

Monte Carlo Charismatic Wealthy, an amazing city

Monaco, bordering France on the Mediterranean coast, is a popular resort, attracting tourists to its casino and pleasant climate. The principality also is a banking center and has successfully sought to diversify into services and small, high-value-added, nonpolluting industries. The state has no income tax and low business taxes and thrives as a tax haven both for individuals who have established residence and for foreign companies that have set up businesses and offices. Monaco, however, is not a tax-free shelter; it charges nearly 20% value-added tax, collects stamp duties, and companies face a 33% tax on profits unless they can show that three-quarters of profits are generated within the principality. Monaco’s reliance on tourism and banking for its economic growth has left it vulnerable to a downturn in France and other European economies which are the principality’s main trade partners.

I could happily live aboard this awesome ship

Lady Moura is a private luxury yacht. She was the ninth largest private yacht when she was launched in 1990, but has moved down the list in 2011 to number 24. She is owned by Saudi Arabian businessman, Nasser Al-Rashid.

Lady Moura in Monte Carlo

Both the hull and the superstructure are made of steel. The propulsion plant consists of two KHD-MWM diesel engines, each with a power of 5050 kW (over 6700 bhp), and controllable pitch propellers producing a speed of over 20 knots. A crafty hydraulically operated system of shell ports, doors, flaps, roofs, bath platforms, gangways and cranes provide the most possible ease of operation and comfort. Even the boats, anchors, life-rafts and navigation lanterns are hidden behind covers and do not disturb the aesthetics of the yacht. Both the name and the escutcheon that can be seen at port, starboard and at Stern are carved in 24 carat gold.

I would be happy with the gold one.

We were staying in a small French village Breil Sur Roya about 45 minutes drive from Monte Carlo, a great location to explore surrounding French and Italian historic villages.

Perhaps a Mercedes as well.

That is one beautiful motor vehicle.

Magnificent Monte Carlo

The castle dominates and overlooks the city.

Reclaiming the Mediterranean

Obviously there is no more land so they are building out into the sea. I believe there is another similar project about to start, it is expected to take 10 years to complete.

My Australian friends in Monte Carlo.

Jodie O’Neill & Deborah Holliday from Australia’s Gold Coast.

Café de Paris Monte-Carlo

Café de Paris Monte-Carlo is the place to watch the passing parade in Monte Carlo, right next door to the casino and rather expensive, as you would expect.

A brief 17 second video of the harbour.

Monaco, I can smell the money.