April 29th - Nice, France

This is the major city of the French Riviera, and even though the season has
not officially begun, it was still Easter holiday and there was no shortage
of people around.

Strolled through Old Town watching people at the seemingly endless number of
cafes and visited the flower market.

Spent some time walking along the waterfront promenade along the beach.
Along the promenade there is an exact replica of the Statue of Liberty which
was erected this last February.

Headed back to Monaco via Ville France to take in the views of the ports,
yachts and villas.

April 29th - Eze, France

On the way to Nice we drove up into the hills for a visit and lunch at Eze.

The village within the rock walls of this charming medieval fortress sits
perched on the edge of a rock cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Inside this fortress is the Chateau Eza Hotel with twelve rooms and suites
and numerous shops that were inhabited by the residents of this castle 1000
years ago.

It was definitely worth the climb up to wander around the old passage ways.

April 29th - Monaco

The weather decided to cooperate and we were welcomed to Monaco with sunny
skies and warm weather.

Monaco is sometimes referred to as the Manhattan of the French Riviera, and
from some of the photos it is easy to see why. The number of buildings in
this small area (370 acres) is something to see.

Monaco certainly lived up to its reputation as a place for the rich and
famous, the luxurious and exotic cars were everywhere. There was no shortage
of jewelry stores either, in one window there was a sign stating that there
hours were from 10AM to 2AM. I guess if by chance you were lucky at the
tables of the Casino, they were going to give you another chance to leave
your money in Monaco.

The Grand Prix is May 25th, and preparations for the race have begun, with
safety barriers being installed along the race circuit and viewing stands
being erected.

I got to the royal palace before the crowds stated arriving and got a front
row seat of the changing of the guard.

Great start for the day.