Nice & Monaco

Time for a detour, towards one of the annual highlights on the global sporting calendar - the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix.

As an avid fan of Formula 1 and having never been to Monaco, this was a true highlight (plus the dates lined up conveniently!). Careful planning was necessary well in advance thanks to the exorbitant prices of not only tickets but accommodation. Anything under €1,200 per night for a bedroom in a flat via Airbnb was a good price!

The alternative? Nice, in France for less than €50 is possible if you book early. Again, Airbnb is the best bet as hostel prices skyrocket over the race weekend. Nice is actually ideal - it's only around 30 mins via train and has everything you need. Plus it's another beautiful city to explore.

I ended up booking grandstand qualifying tickets and a ticket to 'Stars'N'Bars Monaco' an American style sports bar that's based right next to the Paddock. They broadcast the race on loads of large screens and serve great meals that are relatively well priced.

This means you can get the full experience of the cars, crowd and lavish parties in the huge boats on the marina, for qualifying as well as loads of fun in a jam-packed bar on race day. Plus being right by the Paddock, I was able to see and meet some of the drivers. After dark on both days, the track lights up and has a festival atmosphere with live performances, dancing, drinking and more. The whole place just buzzes!

Monaco Is the second smallest country in the world (at just 200 hectares), however it's one of the most densely populated counties. It has a population of just over 38,000 and 32% of them are millionaires. It really is a haven for the wealthy thanks to a unique tax regime and draws in tourists from across the world.

Be sure to check out:

• Casino de Monte Carlo - Monte Carlo’s legendary marble-and-gold casino is simply stunning.
• Jardin Exotique - Home to the world’s largest succulent and cactus collection, there are a maze of paths and spectacular views of the principality.
• Le Rocher - Walk around the original old town, with small, windy medieval lanes.
• Palais Princier de Monaco - Built as a fortress, this palace is the private residence of the Grimaldi family.
• Roseraie Princesse Grace - A collection of over 4000 rose bushes!
• Cathédrale de Monaco - A stunning 1875 Romanesque-Byzantine cathedral.
• Formula 1 Grand Prix - of course!

After a fun-filled long weekend, I caught the train back into Italy to Genoa and south to explore Cinque Terre.