b'Monte Carlos harbour is full of luxury yachts.Monaco(continued from page 62)for less than $100, unless of course you enjoy wine, in whichinch of the place on foot, and it only takes a day or two to do case you will have to make arrangements with your bank, toso. After a hearty breakfast, which is usually included with the cover your expenses. price of the room, a brisk walk along the seashore will lead But alas, a visit to Monte Carlo is still highly recommended.you up a mountain to the Royal Palace. If you time it properly, I stayed in one of the Fairmont properties, located a few stepsyou will arrive at the main gate in time for the changing of the from the casino and situated on the water. The Mediterraneanguard ceremony, which happens every day just before noon.in September is fantastic. It has taken most of the summer toWhen visiting the Palace, you will find yourself in the old warm up, and 25 degree temperatures are not uncommon.part of the country, and a dozen or so winding streets. They The view from the hotel was unimaginable. Private yachtsare lined with shops, restaurants and quaint little art stores, that the size of Palmer Park, were anchored off shore, and at nightoffer you an opportunity to walk through a world long forgotten.one could see hundreds of lights flickering on board, as theThe views of the harbour are unimaginable, as the palace beautiful jetsetters partied until the wee hours of the morning. sits on the slopes of Mont Agel. In the distance you can see One of the beauties of Monte Carlo is you can visit everythe French Alps and down below are hundreds, if not thou-sands of boats, yachts and sail boats, most of which cost more money than the GDP of many African nations.One of the reasons people stay in Monaco is there isnt any income tax. Corporate taxes are also very low, and social assistance is second to none. Education and healthcare are totally free, and housing assistance is provided by the state, especially since they own most of the apartments. A six hun-dred square foot unit can cost as much as $10,000 a month, so you can appreciate how difficult life would be for a poor middle class family, without assistance. The state will also find you a job, as the unemployment rate in Monaco is zero.Every May, Monte Carlo opens its doors to the world of racing, by hosting the Grand Prix. Started in 1914, it has been a world class event, which attracts thousands of tourists and The 10 Euro entry fee for the casino is well worth it. Please turn to page 64FOCUS - NOVEMBER 201963'