Beautiful Monaco

On New year's Eve, we took an afternoon trip to Monaco, the world's second smallest country, an independent state along the Mediterranean sea. The train ride along was coast was so picturesque in the afternoon sun.The train station located close to dock which now also served as the Christmas market and carnival area. We decided to take the hop on/hop off tour bus in order to see all the sights before dark. At 17Euro per person, it was a bit pricey, but necessary as we didn't want to walk up the hill to see the royal palace.

The front of the Royal Palace and the surrounding area was beautiful but simpler expected. We enjoyed walking the narrow alley ways of buildings around the palace that seemed to be of official nature with souvenir stores tucked amidst them. The lookout from the top offered great views of the city from one side and the sea on the other.

After the tour, we spent the rest of the evening in Monte Carlo, sitting opposite the most famous casino in the world. Unlike most casinos in Vegas, Monte Carlo wasn't gambling and entertainment under one roof. It was only serious gambling. We took a sneak peak at the casino and settled at a cafe outside. The steady stream of luxury cars at the entrance of the casino, the beautiful lights as well as the crowds outside were our entertainment. After strolling thorough the Christmas market once last time, we took the train back to Nice for NYE festivities.