Monaco Wins Big — and Bets Bigger

 

Monaco’s tourism machine didn’t just hold steady in 2025 — it accelerated.

Unveiled at the annual tourism review at the Monte-Carlo Bay Resort & Spa on March 17, the latest figures show a destination quietly tightening its grip on the high-end global travel market, even as geopolitical and economic uncertainty swirled elsewhere.

The numbers tell a clear story: hotel occupancy climbed by 3%, average room rates jumped 6%, and revenue per available room surged an impressive 11%. Business tourism is also gaining ground, expanding its share of activity by another 3% — a sign that Monaco’s appeal isn’t just about leisure, but influence and deal-making too.

Behind the scenes, Monaco’s institutional heavyweights were all present — from government officials to economic leaders — underscoring just how central tourism remains to the Principality’s economic engine.

 But this wasn’t just a victory lap. It was a launchpad.

Set to roll out globally in April, Monaco’s new campaign — “Monaco, Everything At Once” — aims to sharpen the brand’s edge in an increasingly competitive luxury travel market. Backed by an international network of promotional offices, the message is clear: Monaco isn’t just a destination, it’s a complete experience.

Tourism Director Guy Antognelli framed it as a necessary evolution. The strategy, he noted, is shifting to match the expectations of modern travelers — blending Monaco’s traditional pillars of security, stability, and excellence with a growing focus on digital innovation and responsible tourism.

In other words, Monaco isn’t just riding momentum — it’s recalibrating for what comes next.

Villa Liberté — A Private Riviera Setting Where Creativity Comes to Life

 

Situated discreetly into the sun-drenched hills above Vence, Villa Liberté is the kind of place that feels as though it was designed for the camera. Just minutes from the charming historic center of Vence yet surrounded by calm and privacy, this exceptional property offers sweeping sea views across the Mediterranean while remaining completely shielded from neighbouring properties.

The moment the gates open, visitors often say it feels like stepping onto the set of a film—an unmistakably Riviera backdrop where light, landscape, and architecture combine to create something cinematic.

The villa’s meticulously maintained gardens, expansive terraces, and elegant pool area provide a stunning canvas for photographers, filmmakers, and content creators alike. From sunrise over the sea to golden-hour sunsets across the hills, every corner of the property offers striking visual possibilities.

Whether the project calls for timeless Riviera glamour, luxury lifestyle imagery, or something more creative and bold, even naughty, Villa Liberté delivers a setting that naturally elevates the scene.

Just as important as the scenery is the sense of safety and discretion. The property is fully gated, private, and not overlooked, creating a secure environment where productions can work comfortably and without interruption. Cast, crew, and guests can focus entirely on their project, knowing the location provides both privacy and peace of mind throughout the day’s work. 

Villa Liberté welcomes a wide range of creative uses. The space has proven ideal for wedding photography, influencer content, fashion and lifestyle shoots, product promotions, and commercial or television, film and OnlyFans productions. Models, actors, and creators from across the spectrum of artistic expression—straight, gay, bisexual, or trans—are welcomed in an inclusive and respectful environment where creativity is encouraged. No matter what you have in mind.

While the villa itself remains a private residence, the extensive gardens, terraces, and pool area can be made available as your personal stage for the day. It’s a place where ideas can unfold naturally, where the Riviera light does half the work for you, and where productions can capture something truly memorable. 

Villa Liberté isn’t just a location—it’s a setting where imagination meets.

For availability, rates, and booking inquiries, please get in touch to discuss your project.

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Vence: La Maison de Frêne

 

In the historic heart of Vence, overlooking the charming Place du Grand Jardin, La Maison de Frêne is the kind of boutique hotel you almost feel lucky to stumble upon. The sort of place that doesn’t shout for attention but quietly captivates anyone who walks through its doors.

 

On a recent Sunday visit to Vence, a friend who lives nearby offered to show me around the town. While I had passed through many times before—usually on property visits with clients—I had never truly explored the winding streets and old-world corners that give this historic hilltop town its charm. As we approached La Maison de Frêne, my friend began sharing stories about the hotel and its past. Then reached out to the owner, who kindly came over and offered us a personal tour.

The moment we stepped inside, it was clear this was no ordinary hotel.

Every space inside La Maison de Frêne feels carefully considered, almost curated. The rooms are intimate yet expressive, each with its own personality and atmosphere. You quickly notice that nothing is accidental here—from the artwork adorning the walls to the thoughtfully chosen dinnerware in the breakfast room. Even the smallest details seem to carry a story, giving the entire hotel the feeling of a living gallery as much as a place to stay.

The building itself has deep roots in the history of Vence. Facing the town’s iconic Ash tree—said to have been planted in the 18th century—this elegant townhouse places guests directly in the heart of one of the Riviera’s most authentic villages. Just outside the door are cafés, bakeries, artisan shops, and quiet squares that still feel wonderfully local despite being only a short drive from the coast.

 

And that location is part of the magic.

 

From Vence, visitors can easily reach the Mediterranean in about 20 minutes, with destinations like Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence, Nice, and Antibes all within easy reach. Yet the town itself remains a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the Riviera’s larger seaside cities. Artists such as Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall were drawn to this area for the same reason: the light, the colors, and the quiet inspiration of the hills above the sea.

 

A stay at La Maison de Frêne captures that spirit perfectly. The hotel feels unmistakably Côte d’Azur—not in the flashy sense of beach clubs and superyachts, but in the more romantic, artistic way the Riviera first captivated painters, writers, and travelers generations ago. The interiors echo the region’s famous light and color palette, while the historic setting adds an undeniable sense of place.

 

Perhaps the most compelling reason to stay, however, is its intimacy. With only a handful of rooms, it offers a rare kind of experience that larger hotels simply cannot replicate. Guests aren’t just passing through—they become part of the rhythm of the town, waking up to church bells, wandering the old streets before the crowds arrive, and enjoying breakfast surrounded by art and quiet elegance.

 

If you’re planning a trip to this part of the French Riviera, La Maison de Frêne is exactly the kind of place that transforms a visit into a memory.

 

And because there are so few rooms available, it’s the kind of hotel you shouldn’t hesitate to book when the opportunity arises.

Discover the Timeless Charm of Vence

 

Tucked gently into the hills above the glittering coastline of the French Riviera lies the enchanting town of Vence—a place where history lingers in every stone street and the rhythm of life slows to the relaxed pace of Provence. Just a short drive from the glamour of Nice and Antibes, Vence feels worlds away, offering visitors a more intimate and authentic slice of the Côte d’Azur.

At the heart of the town sits its beautifully preserved Old Town, a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets that date back to the Middle Ages. Encircled by ancient ramparts built in the 13th century, wandering through the historic center feels like stepping into a living postcard. Sunlight filters down between stone buildings draped with flowers, while small squares reveal bubbling fountains, hidden courtyards, and inviting terraces perfect for lingering over a glass of rosé.

A Town Steeped in History

Vence is one of the oldest towns in the region, with roots stretching back more than 2,000 years. During Roman times it was known as Vintium, and traces of that era still remain today. In the charming square beside the town’s cathedral stands an ancient Roman column—an enduring reminder of the town’s long and layered past.

 

The centerpiece of Old Town is the beautiful Vence Cathedral, built between the 11th and 13th centuries. Inside, visitors will discover a remarkable mosaic designed by the legendary artist Marc Chagall, adding a surprising touch of modern artistry to the cathedral’s ancient walls.

Over the centuries, Vence has also attracted artists, writers, and creatives seeking inspiration in its peaceful setting. Perhaps most famously, Henri Matisse spent time here and created one of the town’s most celebrated landmarks, the extraordinary Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence—often called the Matisse Chapel.

Shops, Cafés, and Provençal Flavours

While Vence is steeped in history, its Old Town is wonderfully alive with modern charm. Strolling through the winding lanes reveals a delightful mix of artisan boutiques, galleries, specialty food shops, and local markets. Visitors can browse handmade jewellery, Provençal linens, ceramics, and art while discovering small corners that seem tailor-made for photography.

 

Food lovers are especially well rewarded here. The town boasts a wide variety of restaurants and cafés, ranging from relaxed bistros and cozy wine bars to elegant dining spots serving refined Mediterranean cuisine. Many spill out onto picturesque squares where diners can enjoy the warm evening air while watching the gentle theatre of village life unfold.

Whether it’s a morning espresso in the sunshine, a leisurely afternoon exploring the shops, or a long dinner under the soft glow of lanterns, Old Town Vence invites visitors to slow down and savour every moment.

A Perfect Escape on the Côte d’Azur

Part of Vence’s magic lies in its balance: close enough to the Riviera’s famous coastal towns, yet tranquil enough to feel like a hidden gem. Surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and sweeping views toward the Mediterranean, the town offers a peaceful retreat while still placing the best of the region within easy reach.

 

For travellers seeking history, culture, great food, and the simple pleasure of wandering beautiful streets, Vence is one of the Riviera’s most rewarding discoveries. Spend a few hours exploring its Old Town—or better yet, a few days—and you’ll quickly understand why this charming Provençal town has captivated visitors for centuries.