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.