We kicked off this trip by flying into Nice, then heading straight to Monte Carlo. Gambling isn’t really my thing, so I walked out of the casino with exactly what I walked in with—which I count as a win.

This was in 2013, and after too much work travel, let’s just say my waistline had some stories of its own. Still, the accommodations in Monte Carlo were top-notch. No complaints there.

OOne of the big casinos stood out, not just for its grandeur, but for the way the entire area felt like a living postcard—elegant, scenic, and a little cheeky. Apparently, some visitors couldn’t resist getting handsy with the statues.

We happened to visit just before the famous Grand Prix, so the whole place was buzzing with race preparations. It reminded me of a family story—my mother once told me her stepfather, Carlo Baratelli, had raced in Monte Carlo. I can’t help but wonder if that’s true…

On the way to Nice, the scenery was simply breathtaking. There’s something about the Riviera light and coastline that just stays with you.