Monaco Pushes for Equal Parental Rights in Same-Sex Families

 

Since 2019, Monaco has recognized civil unions for both homosexual and heterosexual couples; however, same-sex marriage remains unrecognized. This legal gap has major implications—especially for children of same-sex couples. One National Council member is now speaking out to demand change.

The introduction of the Common Life Contract (CVC) in 2019 was a symbolic step forward, granting rights in areas such as inheritance and illness. Yet it offers no protection for children within same-sex unions. In Monaco, only the biological parent is legally recognized—leaving the other parent without rights in cases of separation or death.

On October 7, National Council member Béatrice Fresko-Rolfo addressed the issue head-on: “Children’s rights must be protected in all circumstances; this principle is neither negotiable nor conditional.” As President of the Commission for Women’s Rights, Family and Equality, she denounced the “legal loophole” that leaves families vulnerable, calling for reform in the name of equality and child welfare.

Her appeal resonates with local associations like Mon’Arc En Ciel, whose spokesperson Cynthia described the daily impact: “Only the biological mother is recognized. At the nursery, one of us doesn’t exist.” Even family allowances are only paid to the biological mother, despite being calculated on both partners’ incomes.

Fresko-Rolfo is determined to push for solutions—particularly the legalization of adoption for same-sex couples. While the idea of same-sex marriage remains politically untouchable in the Principality, activists hope that continued advocacy through Monaco Pride and Mon’Arc En Ciel will gradually move the country toward greater equality for all families.

Côte d’Azur Sets Its Sights on Global Growth: 2026 Tourism Strategy Unveiled

 

After a strong 2025 season, Côte d’Azur France Tourisme has unveiled its ambitious roadmap for 2026, with a clear goal: to strengthen the region’s global appeal and attract even more international visitors, particularly from North America, Asia, and the Middle East.

During its annual presentation on October 3, the tourism board highlighted how the 2025 season continued the trend of an extended summer period. What was once a three-month rush has now stretched from May through September — and in many cases with us, villa rental activity has been starting as early as April and lasting until November. Average hotel occupancy along the coast reached an impressive 84%, peaking at 89% in August.

This success is credited to Côte d’Azur’s efforts to promote “four-season” tourism, with events such as the Monaco Grand Prix, the UNOC United Nations Summit, the Ironman World Championships, and major yachting events in Cannes and Monaco keeping visitors coming year-round. International guests made up more than half of all visitors in July and August, with strong representation from the United States, the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, and Italy.

Looking ahead, the 2026 strategy will focus heavily on strengthening ties with key overseas markets. Delegations are set to travel to the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore to promote the Côte d’Azur brand at major trade shows and industry events. These efforts aim to secure consistent air connections and build long-term loyalty among high-value international travelers.

At the same time, Côte d’Azur France Tourisme is determined to maintain its strong domestic base, as French travelers still account for roughly half of total visitors. One of the flagship events next year will be the Rendez-vous en France trade show, held in Nice’s Baie des Anges in spring 2026 — a major international gathering for tour operators and travel media.

 

Through press campaigns, global conferences, and an active presence at key tourism fairs, the Côte d’Azur is positioning itself not just as a summer destination, but as a vibrant, year-round hub for leisure, culture, luxury experiences, and this most certainly includes those of us in the LGBTQ+ community.

French Riviera Sets New Limits on Cruise Ships to Protect Coastline

 

With what seems to be a never-ending discussion between locals and authorities, the cruise ship industry once again takes center stage on the French Riviera.

While these massive floating hotels bring thousands of eager tourists each summer, they also stir debate about congestion, pollution, and the strain on local life in ports such as Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Nice.

Beyond the ships themselves, the buses that ferry passengers through Nice, Villefranche, and Cannes contribute further to the region’s summer overcrowding and emissions.

To prevent cruise tourism from spiraling out of control, Prefect Laurent Hottiaux and maritime counterpart Christophe Lucas have introduced harmonized rules across all Riviera ports. The new measures limit disembarkations to 3,000 passengers per stopover (with a 2,000-person average annually) and restrict large vessels to one anchorage per day. The high season will see tighter caps—no more than fifteen ships per month in July and August.

In addition, cruise companies adhering to the “Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean” will get priority access to port slots, rewarding greener practices. The message from the State is clear: cruises aren’t being banned, but they must now coexist with residents’ quality of life and the preservation of the Riviera’s fragile coastal environment.

ICÔNES Cabaret: The Dazzling LGBTQ+ Talk Show Experience Lighting Up Nice!

 

Get ready for a night where glamour, laughter, and unapologetic self-expression take center stage! On Thursday, October 16, 2025, Stockfish in Nice transforms into the glittering world of ICÔNES Cabaret — a bold, fabulous show inspired by the magic of American talk shows and the energy of queer cabaret culture.

Now in its second edition, this electrifying event promises an XXL spectacle in the spirit of Jimmy Fallon meets RuPaul — where anything can happen and everyone is celebrated. Expect a thrilling mix of singers, comedians, and drag performers, each paying tribute to the timeless icons of music, cinema, and pop culture.

Leading the night is none other than Tati Galaxy, the radiant star of the cabaret scene, guiding the audience through a whirlwind of rhythm, glitter, and heartfelt emotion.

But ICÔNES is more than a show — it’s a celebration of diversity, creativity, and unity. A vibrant space where LGBTQIA+ artists and allies from Nice and beyond come together to shine, inspire, and remind us all that visibility is power — and joy is resistance.

Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of queer brilliance and show-stopping performances at Stockfish!

Book online now!