Monaco Moments : A Family Weekend of Riviera Glamour
It’s not every weekend you find yourself zipping over the Côte d’Azur in a helicopter, but when in Monaco and you have access to your own travel booking system… you can arrive in style.
We touched down in Nice mid-afternoon on a clear Thursday, where our chopper awaited - booked through one of my suppliers, yes helicopters, private yachts, jets - you name it you can book it when you’re part of the travel business! Rotors whirring, headphones ready. Within minutes, we were soaring above the sparkling Mediterranean, the coastline glinting below. The boys were grinning ear-to-ear. For a family who is fortunate to travel often, this one was already feeling special.
Staying Stylishly: The Hermitage
Our base for the weekend? The elegant Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, an absolute jewel in the heart of the principality, and again booked as an agent. Tucked just behind Casino Square, it oozes Belle Époque beauty with a modern, quietly luxurious energy and the service is impeccable. Our suite had floor-to-ceiling windows that opened out to the harbour - superyachts a-bobbing in the bay, and the sound of jazz drifting up from the terrace below. Views for days - absolute bliss.
This wasn’t just any weekend away - we were here for a brilliant team event that brought together an inspiring group of entrepreneurial women (and their families), and the mix of business chats over brunch and poolside prosecco was pitch-perfect. Monaco really does lend itself to that kind of life - ambitious, sun-drenched, and just a little over-the-top in the best possible way.
Monaco Moments: Exploration and Inspiration
We spent our days floating between meetings and moments - think lunch at Café de Paris, shopping strolls through the Carré d’Or, and one unforgettable dinner at Yoshi (the Hermitage’s Michelin-starred Japanese gem - so fresh, so chic). One afternoon, we wandered through the old town - Monaco-Ville - with its winding lanes and postcard-perfect views. Ice creams in hand, the three of us stood at the top of the Prince’s Palace watching the yachts glide in and out of the harbour. A moment of stillness in a weekend of sparkle.
While Monaco delivered on glamour and indulgence, what truly filled my cup this weekend wasn’t just the five-star service or the breathtaking views (though I’ll never say no to either). It was the people.
The travel business convention we attended was one of those rare events that manages to strike the perfect balance - deeply inspiring, incredibly valuable, and honestly, just good for the soul. From sunrise strategy sessions to poolside panels, the energy was electric. Every person in that room was building something - dreams, businesses, legacies. The conversations were honest, encouraging, and full of “you’ve got this” vibes that linger long after the final session wraps with rosé.
And then there was the White Party - a dreamy, joy-soaked finale that sparkled under the Riviera sky. Picture this: white linen, twinkly lights, lots of laughter, and a group of people who just get it. We toasted to each other’s wins, danced on the tables, and leaned into the kind of friendships that feel like sunshine. Soulful, supportive, lasting.
These are the weekends that change you a little. That remind you why you started and who you're becoming. They refuel the fire - and make the journey feel that much more beautiful.
Riviera Rules: A little shopping
Of course, there was a little shopping - Monaco demands it. I fell head over sparkly heels for some gorgeous sandals, Teddie made off with a sleek new pair of sunglasses, declaring himself ‘Riviera ready’, and even Howard couldn’t say no to a natty little neck tie from Hermès!
By the time Sunday rolled around, we were all a little sun-kissed and entirely in love with the Monaco magic. There’s something about this place - the shimmer, the sophistication, the sense that anything is possible. It was glamorous, yes, but also grounding in a strange way. Like a reminder that big dreams are worth chasing - and looking fabulous while doing it is part of the fun!
Until next time Monaco, Merci for the memories!
