Ask a concierge: Monaco

Tips for business travel to the luxurious city-state on the French Riviera.

At the Fairmont Monte Carlo, concierge Stéphane Bellon has spent 19 years offering expert advice to visitors in Monaco. Here he suggests where business travelers should go in this luxurious city-state on the Mediterranean Sea.

What’s the most important thing for business travelers to pack?
Even though you’re coming on business, make sure to pack a bathing suit so you can swim in the sea.

What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?
La Maison du Caviar (1 Avenue Saint-Charles, Monte Carlo; Ph: +377 93 30 80 06) is an authentic French bistro that has been managed by the same family for many years. It offers affordable business lunch options and is only a few minutes away from the casino district. For a magnificent view of the sea and delicious, locally sourced Mediterranean cuisine, go to Horizon (12 Avenue des Spélugues, Monte Carlo; Ph: +377 93 300 900), our rooftop restaurant at the Fairmont Monte Carlo.

What’s something that surprises visitors about Monaco?
Visitors are surprised that there’s a very good chance they’ll see royalty or celebrities as they walk around Monaco’s shopping areas.

If business travelers only have a short time for leisure, what must they see?
You have to go to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, where several James Bond movie scenes were filmed.

What’s the best option for outdoor exercise?
For a unique experience that you’ll tell stories about when you return home, run or walk the route of the famous Monte Carlo Formula 1 track. It’s a 3.3-kilometer loop through streets in the district.

Concierge Stéphane Bellon’s top tips for getting business right in Monaco:

  1. Arrive at least 10 minutes early for meetings—and start greetings with “Bonjour!”
  2. Business etiquette is formal. Be courteous, respectful and dress conservatively.
  3. Avoid conversations about the Prince of Monaco and his family.

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