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Day: 7 July 2025

Simon Delestre claims third consecutive Longines Global Champions Tour victory

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
07/07/2025

During a fascinating weekend Simon Delestre secured his third consecutive victory at the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix du Prince de Monaco. Meanwhile, Antoine Ermann claimed the Monte-Carlo Casino Trophy.

The world number eight delivered an outstanding performance in the jump-off on Saturday evening, riding Cayman Jolly Jumper to finish in 32.05 seconds and win the €1.5 million prize. He beat Britain’s Harry Charles on Sherlock by a strong 1.84 seconds, showing the skill and speed that have made him a three-time Monaco champion.

The victory marks Delestre’s fourth five-star Grand Prix triumph of the season, following earlier wins ‘s-Hertogenbosch and the Saut Hermès in Paris. The partnership has now won four of the seven top-level competitions they have contested since January 1st – a remarkable strike rate.

French double delight

France’s successful weekend completed when Antoine Ermann guided Odin vt Hanegoor to victory in the Monte-Carlo Casino Trophy.

Twelve combinations made it through to the jump-off from the first round, with Delestre third to compete in the deciding phase. “It’s difficult to find the words,” Delestre said after his victory. “Winning here is incredible. I had made it an objective but to actually succeed…I was third to go in the jump-off. I knew I had to do something incredible to hope to win.”

The Olympic bronze medallist from Paris 2024 described his tactical approach: “I took all the risks and couldn’t do any more anyway. At the finish, even though you can always be beaten, I knew that the podium, was assured and that we would be hard to beat.”

Delestre’s victory strengthens his position in the overall Longines Global Champions Tour standings and secures his place at November’s Super Final in Prague, when Grand Prix winners compete for the ultimate prize.

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Photo credit: Monaco Life 

Energy Observer docks in Monaco after seven-year global voyage

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
07/07/2025

The Monaco Yacht Club welcomed a remarkable vessel to its marina during the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge—the Energy Observer, the world’s first vessel to complete a round-the-world voyage in total energy autonomy. After seven years at sea, covering 68,000 nautical miles, it arrived in Monaco to demonstrate the possibilities of maritime decarbonisation. 

Speaking to Monaco Life, Nolwenn Guenan, the vessel’s 360 Communication Manager, explained the groundbreaking technology that powers the boat. “Energy Observer is a boat operating with a mix of renewable energies and hydrogen on board,” she said.

The technology that powered the global voyage

The boat stands as an example in marine propulsion, operating entirely on a low-carbon energy mix combining solar panels, wind turbines, hydropower, and crucially, hydrogen produced on board from seawater electrolysis.

The Energy Observer’s seven year voyage has taken it to more than 50 countries, making 101 stopovers across the globe. “The objective is to experiment, decrypt, and raise awareness about energy transition.” Guenan explained.

Solar panels on top of the Energy observer, photo by Monaco Life.
Solar panels on top of the Energy observer, photo by Monaco Life.

Next-generation vessel to push boundaries even further

The success of the original Energy Observer has paved the way for an even more ambitious successor. EO3, currently under development, represents the next generation of low carbon vessels, designed from the outset as a commercial ship meeting international standards.

This new vessel will feature an innovative energy system integrating multiple complementary technologies: a 180-square-metre solar array, four wing sails for propulsion assistance, and a revolutionary ammonia-based fuel system.

The Energy Observer’s presence at the Monaco Boat Energy Challenge gave visitors and contestants a glimpse into the future of zero-emission maritime transport.

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

European tourism grows modestly in Q2 2025 as long-haul markets and off-season demand drive resilience

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/07/2025

Europe’s tourism industry posted a stable performance in the second quarter of 2025, with international arrivals up 3.3% year-on-year, underpinned by growing off-season travel and renewed interest from China and the US.

Despite persistent economic pressures and geopolitical uncertainty, Europe’s tourism sector demonstrated steady resilience, according to the European Travel Commission’s latest ‘Trends & Prospects’ report. While the number of nights spent by tourists declined slightly by 0.7%, likely due to calendar effects such as a later Easter, international arrivals rose modestly — a sign that demand remains strong even amid elevated costs.

ETC President Miguel Sanz acknowledged the sector’s continued adaptability, urging destinations to invest in innovation and more sustainable, inclusive tourism models that meet the expectations of both visitors and local communities.

Sun-seeking travellers drive off-season momentum

Off-season travel continues to gain traction, particularly for sun and beach destinations. A surge in spring getaway searches — up 36% among European travellers — was largely driven by interest in avoiding peak-season heat and crowds. Destinations like Malta (+19%) and Cyprus (+16%) saw notable gains, while Spain and Portugal also benefited from this extended seasonal demand.

Meanwhile, Central and Eastern European countries such as Latvia, Lithuania, and Hungary experienced year-on-year growth in arrivals of over 14%, supported by improved air connectivity and a broader recovery from the pandemic and regional instability.

Tourist spending rises despite price sensitivity

Although travel-related costs have risen — with international flights to Southern Europe up 5% and package holidays up 7% — total travel expenditure is forecast to increase by 13% in 2025. The data suggests tourists are travelling more strategically, seeking better value while spending more on quality experiences. Destinations like Spain, Cyprus and Malta reported substantial revenue growth, particularly during the off-peak months.

US and Chinese visitors boost long-haul travel

Travel from the United States remains a bright spot, especially for destinations in Northern and Southern Europe. Overnight stays by Americans increased by 35% in Norway and 24% in Denmark, while Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece also saw strong gains. Lower airfares between the US and major European cities have helped offset broader economic concerns.

China’s return to the European travel map is also gathering pace. Arrivals from Chinese travellers are up in all reporting destinations, with significant growth in Croatia (+7%), Estonia (+15%) and Romania (+20%). The recovery is expected to strengthen further, aided by expanded flight routes and growing interest in Europe as a preferred destination amid global uncertainty.

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Photo of Malta, credit: CALIN STAN, Unsplash

Monaco’s embassy in Spain marks 20 years of Prince Albert II’s reign

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/07/2025

The Monaco embassy in Madrid has hosted around 200 guests—from Spanish officials to cultural figures—to honour the 20th anniversary of Prince Albert II’s accession, celebrating longstanding ties and shared values.

The embassy’s elegant reception on 26th June commemorated Prince Albert II’s accession on 6th April 2005, bringing together prominent Spanish dignitaries, Monaco’s honorary consuls, artists, and diplomats to mark the milestone.

Ambassador recalls Prince’s global influence

Ambassador Catherine Fautrier celebrated two major achievements of Prince Albert II: his steadfast commitment to environmental protection and his dedication to international development. She highlighted how these have elevated Monaco’s role on the world stage.

A celebration of 500 years of Monaco–Spain friendship

Fautrier also emphasised the five-century shared history between Monaco and Spain. She reminded guests that 2026 will mark the 150th anniversary of Monaco’s diplomatic presence in Madrid, noting that the occasion will strengthen the deep bonds built on human rights, sustainability, sport and cooperation.

Cultural and culinary exchange fosters goodwill

The event provided more than just toasts. Guests enjoyed Monegasque and Spanish delicacies sourced through short supply chains, reflecting Monaco’s dedication to environmental responsibility and local heritageen.gouv.mc+1ambassade-en-espagne.gouv.mc+1.

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Photo credit: Julia Robles

Free summer concerts return to Monaco

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/07/2025

The Mairie de Monaco has unveiled its 2025 summer concert programme, featuring a lively series of free, open-air performances across the Principality. Spanning from 9th July to 20th August, the concerts will bring a variety of genres to some of Monaco’s most scenic public spaces.

Square Gastaud will once again set the stage for three evenings of music from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. The series opens on Wednesday 9th July with a vibrant blend of gipsy, rumba and flamenco rhythms. It continues on 23rd July with a high-energy evening of pop rock, dance and soul, and concludes on 6th August with a nostalgic tribute to classic French chansons from the 1950s to 1970s.

Larvotto beach concerts add coastal flair

The beachside venue of Place Anne-Marie Campora at Larvotto will host two special concerts. On 16th July from 8pm to 10pm, young musicians from Réunion Island will present a philharmonic performance. Then, on 20th August from 7:30pm to 9:30pm, audiences can enjoy a soulful set featuring rhythm and blues classics.

Free access and community atmosphere

All concerts are free to attend, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy Monaco’s summer atmosphere through music. These events are part of the mairie’s annual cultural agenda aimed at enhancing the Principality’s vibrant public life.

For more information, contact +377 93 15 06 02 or visit www.mairie.mc.

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Michelin Guide sets sights on Saudi Arabia with 2026 debut edition

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/07/2025

Saudi Arabia is set to join the elite global destinations spotlighted by the Michelin Guide, with the launch of its first national restaurant selection in 2026. The announcement marks a significant step in the Kingdom’s growing culinary recognition, placing its chefs and eateries under the watchful eye of the world’s most respected dining authority.

The 2026 Michelin Guide Saudi Arabia will cover the major cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, with inspectors also exploring gastronomic offerings in AlUla, Khobar, and other emerging culinary hubs. The first round of selections is scheduled to be released in three stages between October and December 2025, with updates posted monthly on the Guide’s official platform.

Anonymous inspectors are already working across the country, following Michelin’s rigorous evaluation system. Their criteria—ranging from ingredient quality to consistency and the unique personality of the cuisine—will shape the final selection, which could include coveted Michelin stars and Bib Gourmand recognitions.

A changing culinary landscape

The decision to expand into Saudi Arabia reflects the country’s swift transformation into a destination of international interest. With sweeping reforms encouraging tourism and entertainment, food has played an increasingly central role in that evolution. From heritage dishes such as kabsa and masabeeb, to the presence of upscale dining concepts in glitzy complexes like VIA Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s culinary offering is becoming as diverse as it is ambitious.

Inspectors reportedly observed a rich mixture of influences, including American, Japanese, Chinese, Greek, and Thai cuisine, alongside traditional Saudi fare. The new Michelin edition is expected to reflect this eclecticism, rewarding restaurants that combine quality with creativity and authenticity.

More than just stars

Beyond the culinary kudos, the Michelin Guide’s arrival is likely to bolster Saudi Arabia’s wider ambitions. Tourism officials and local chefs see the Guide as a tool for cultural diplomacy, and a magnet for affluent travellers and food lovers eager to explore a region often overlooked on the global dining map.

The collaboration with the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission signals a broader commitment to elevating local talent, preserving culinary traditions, and encouraging global standards of excellence. As the Guide prepares to publish its inaugural listings, eyes across the Gulf—and the globe—will be watching closely.

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Photo credit: Ekrem Osmanoglu, Unsplash