Columbus Monaco
Monte Carlo, Monaco[view map]
Guestbook
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If you are going to have a go at the gambling in Monte Carlo, and want to enjoy the full-on experience, you need to know that some of the casinos have dress codes and entry fees (Casino de Monte-Carlo). If you want all the fun of gambling, without the hassle of dressing up, the other casinos are fine, but the place to go is the Café de Paris Casino. Why? Because it is a 30-second walk from Hôtel de Paris, which has a great bar (Le Bar Américain), a great view, and the most impressive row of cars circled around the fountain (not just the ubiquitous Ferrari).We went to the Le Bar Américain (a cosy, elegant, low-key place with leather armchairs and soft lighting) for a pre-gambling cocktail. They have live music every night and a certain je ne sais quoi that really puts you in the mood to go win some money so you can come back for a celebratory flute of champagne. We were fortunate enough to do very well at the roulette table, so we came back at about 1am for that celebratory drink. The place was so alive and surprisingly hip, considering the age and net worth of the clientele. We stayed for about an hour listening to the band and watching billionaires dance, and then enjoyed the scenic walk back to our hotel. Perfect.
A wonderful hotel. My husband and I were upgraded to a lovely Junior Suite. We found the staff to be most helpful and friendly. We are looking forward to returning to Columbus in the near future – highly recommended.