PEAKLIFE

Luxuriant, reputable, magnificent. Monaco blends with Michelin-starred restaurants, state-of-the-art casinos, yacht shows to explore, the Grand Prix at Monte Carlo, and the best in Mediterranean hospitality. 

As we continue discovering the embodiment of luxury, the sizzling Bollywood celebrity Sophie Choudry shares her history of French adoration and grand experiences she cherishes at Monaco.

“ Hard to point out why but I’ve always had a longing towards France, particularly the Southern part of it. Maybe it’s because I studied in Paris and speak French, or maybe it has to do with one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken – driving with my school friends from London to Cannes one summer, renting a villa and spending days on the croisette, then driving to Aix-en-Provence experiencing the Côte d’Azur and of course, Monaco. 

That’s when my love affair with Monaco happened.

Growing up, I had always imagined Monaco as a fairytale in my mind. The most royal of all couples, Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier III. For me, the place seemed nothing less of magic.

I’ve been extremely lucky to visit Monaco many times now but last year was particularly memorable. Not only did I get to go as brand ambassador for an international brand and watch the Grand Prix in the summer, but also for the first time I experienced Christmas in Monaco performing for a corporate event. Seeing Monaco bloom in both seasons was extremely unique. 

There is simply no place quite like it when the F1 takes place in the summer. The buzz, the excitement, the insane nightlife, the splendid restaurants and casinos – everything is larger than life! One sundowner was on the beach and I’d be lying if I said it didn’t leave me stunned. The view, the music, and the vibe – you could easily lose yourself in all this revelry. You’d imagine a queue of people but this was a queue of speedboats everyone had taken from their yachts! It was truly something.

On race day the entire city comes to a standstill! The very streets of Monaco rev with strong engines and excitement. Fortunately I had the best seats in the house and I loved every hot minute of being there. So many people watched from their own yachts, and people only ever sleep after sunrise. It’s an absolute high and it never ends. 

Monaco is extravagant, ostentatious, and exuberant; people spend 50,000 euros in a nightclub like it’s nothing! I even got to meet Chris Brown, 50 Cent, Serena Williams, Lewis Hamilton and so many more people just hanging out or performing.

Thinking about winter, the city looked just as magical and all ready for Christmas. The weather was crisp cold yet fresh, lights and décor adorned the entire place while people sat at cafes sipping and enjoying hot chocolate. It was lovely.

Through both seasons I stayed at the Fairmont Monaco and I absolutely loved my experience. They have a Nikki Beach that’s super central, the spa is down-to-the-core refreshing, and it’s only walking distance from the classic Hotel de Paris and Casino! The Grace Kelly Rose Garden is fabulous for just walking around and exploring while the Old Harbour is fascinating too.

Shopping is a whole other experience I witnessed at Monaco. Of course, all the coveted brands are available but there’s a very vintage mall with some boutiques where you can find more of the unusual stuff for your wardrobe. I also adore L’Hermitage for shopping. I found the most amazing pet store and ended up going crazy for my little one. Even for the pets they have designer items!

Well, that’s Monaco for you. One of the most magical places, anywhere you step. “