2014 in Monaco
On August 24, 2014, the Europe bus tour went from Milan, Italy into the Italian-French border (with no checkpoints, as the Schengen Treaty had allowed such a crossing). We were briefly in French territory (13th country) until we crossed into Monaco, resulting in the visit of my 14th country:
This made it my:
- 8th European country
- 2nd micro-state after Vatican City
Thus, this trip resulted in having visited the two smallest countries (by area) in the world!
Visit
Not a high roller, I didn't really visit the Monte Carlo casinos all that much. Instead, I enjoyed walking along the roads on the micro-state's hilly terrain. The curbs were painted red and white as a nod to the Grand Prix racetrack, Monaco's other main draw. I saw a lot of sports cars from some rich Arab nation, given the lettering on their license plates.
Reflection
Monaco is a playground for the super rich. So, for the most part, I had to enjoy it mostly from the outdoors. Barring any miracles, I don't think I'll come back here anytime soon. A thrill to visit once, but it's just not my kind of place!