Now in its third year, the initiative continues to attract strong community interest. Its goal? To give a second life to healthy summer plants that need to be removed as the park transitions into its winter planting season.

Organised by Monaco’s Institution Communale, the donation is part of a wider commitment to sustainability, aiming to reduce waste and promote a circular economy within the Principality.

This upcoming session will be held in front of the park’s salle anniversaire, where municipal gardeners will be on hand to distribute around 100 flowering plants, including begonias and oleanders, along with expert advice on how to care for them at home.

To ensure fairness and accessibility, distribution will be limited to one plant per person.

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Photo credit: Ka’Ron Thompson, Unsplash

According to British writer Oliver Burkeman, author of Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals, the whole idea of “getting on top of it all” is a myth. There is no golden future where your inbox is empty, your life admin complete, and your brain as peaceful as a Zen garden. There’s just you, roughly four thousand weeks of existence, and the choice of what really matters.

Burkeman’s work isn’t the usual productivity manual of 5 a.m. alarms and dopamine fuelled hustle. It’s more like philosophical judo, flipping your beliefs about time entirely on their head. And honestly, it’s liberating.

1. You Can’t Do It All, So Stop Trying

Burkeman’s first truth: we are all finite. Once you truly accept you won’t get everything done, life feels lighter. It’s not about cramming more in; it’s about choosing what to neglect.

Try this: write your full to do list, then circle only three things that genuinely matter this week, the ones that, if completed, would actually move life forward. Everything else goes on a “later” list.

You’ve just practised what Burkeman calls creative neglect. It’s not laziness; it’s focus.

2. Pay Yourself First (With Time, Not Money)

Imagine your time like your pay cheque. Most people spend it all before they invest any. Burkeman suggests flipping that: schedule your most important work first, when your attention is sharp, before your day is hijacked by emails, meetings or someone else’s priorities.

Block out 60 to 90 minutes for the thing that matters most, writing, strategy, training, or connecting with your family before the day disappears. Guard that time like a royal flight slot. The rest can fit around it.

3. Procrastination Is Fear Wearing a Fancy Hat

When you find yourself “accidentally” reorganising your inbox instead of starting the big task, ask: what am I avoiding?

Most procrastination isn’t laziness, it’s fear of failure or imperfection. You delay starting because you’d rather not find out you’re not as good as you hope. The antidote? Start badly, on purpose. Do the rough draft, the ugly first rep, the messy brainstorm. Progress beats perfection every single time.

4. The Joy of Missing Out

We’ve been sold FOMO, fear of missing out, as the modern disease. Burkeman says embrace JOMO, the joy of missing out. Every “no” you say to a low value invitation or pointless meeting is a “yes” to something that actually counts.

When you measure success by how aligned your days are with your values, not how full your diary looks, life becomes infinitely calmer and far more productive.

Your Weekly Practice

1. Make two lists:
   • Open List — everything buzzing around your brain.
   • Closed List — the 3 to 5 things you’ll actually do this week.
2. Protect your best hour each day for meaningful work.
3. Notice what you’re avoiding then do five imperfect minutes of it.

Repeat weekly. Watch the noise drop and the meaningful work rise.

Time management isn’t really about time. It’s about attention, courage and choosing what matters.

See also: 

The cure that comes in waves

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The release forms part of a wider initiative marking the 10th anniversary of the Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco network, which celebrates the family’s feudal heritage across France and beyond through heritage tourism and cultural promotion.

Following the earlier 2025 release of a coin dedicated to the County of Carladès — a title held by Princess Gabriella — this new issue focuses on Les Baux-de-Provence in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. The territory was granted to the Grimaldi dynasty by King Louis XIII in 1642, specifically to Honoré II for his son Hercule.

The obverse of the coin depicts a general view of the rocky outcrop and ruined medieval fortress of Les Baux-de-Provence. A subtle heraldic background features both the silver-and-red fusily pattern of the Grimaldi arms and a sixteen-pointed silver star, a symbol tied to the legend of the medieval Lords of Baux who claimed descent from Balthazar, one of the Biblical Magi. The family’s motto, “A l’asard Bautezar” — a Provençal phrase meaning “By chance, Balthazar” — is a nod to this storied lineage.

In a symbolic gesture of continuity, Prince Albert II remains the owner of the Sainte-Catherine chapel ruins at the site.

The new coin will be available for purchase starting 4th November through the official website of Monaco’s Museum of Stamps and Coins: mtm-monaco.mc.

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The day-long tournament, however, will not just be about competitive boules. Participants will also be able to enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by a Grand Cordon d’Or chef of French cuisine, and trophies designed by artist Jordane Saget, represented by Galerie Kamil. The event runs from 9:30am to 4:30pm at the club on Avenue Marquet.

Tickets are priced at €150 per person, which includes entry to the tournament, lunch, and all refreshments throughout the day. With limited places available, organisers are urging interested participants to register early through the HelloAsso platform or by contacting the association directly at contact@mld.mc or on 06 40 62 37 77.

Additional donations are welcomed alongside ticket purchases, with French taxpayers eligible for a 66% tax reduction on charitable contributions.

The Monaco Liver Disorder was established in 2011 and is the only Franco-Monégasque association representing all rare liver diseases in children. The charity supports medical research, promotes organ donation awareness, helps improve paediatric hospital services, and provides support to affected families.

Registration is now open for the event, which combines sport and gastronomy in support of cause that affects families across France and Monaco.

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Main photo of the previous pétanque challenge credit: Monaco Liver Disorder 

The Kursk-Root Icon, one of Orthodox Christianity’s most venerated relics, will be available for worship at the church on Avenue de Grande-Bretagne on 3rd November at 6pm.

The icon, which depicts the Virgin Mary, dates back to the 13th century and has been central to Orthodox faith for over 700 years. According to tradition, believers credit it with healing the sick, resolving conflicts, and bestowing divine grace upon the faithful.

The sacred image holds deep historical significant within Russian Orthodox tradition. It was revered by Russian Tsars and the renowned military commander General Kutuzov during the Russian Empire.

Such is the icon’s importance that in Ukraine and Russia, worshippers routinely queue for seven to eight hours for just five seconds before it. Hundreds of thousands of people wait to pay their respects when it visits these countries.

The Orthodox Church of Monaco has extended an invitation to all Christians in the principality to take advantage of this rare opportunity. Church representatives highlighted the timing, noting the current difficulties in Ukraine, and called for unity amongst the Christian community.

The icon will be displayed at St Elena’s Parish, which is part of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR)

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Main photo provided.

The international competition will bring together premium caviar producers and merchants from 20 countries, including Russia, Iran, France, Italy, China and the United States, to compete for top honours in a blind tasting judges by Michelin-starred chefs and gastronomy experts.

The event, founded by caviar specialist Laurent Morin and held under the high patronage of Princess Yasmine Murat, Princess of Pontecorvo, marks a significant step up from its inaugural edition at Saint-Émilion Grand Barrail in October 2024.

How the competition works

Each caviar entry will be evaluated under strictly controlled conditions, with identical temperatures, portions, and unmarked containers to ensure complete impartiality. Two sworn bailiffs will oversee the juggling process, where jury members will asses samples individually without consultation.

The competition features two distinct categories: producers who farm their own fish and create caviar, and merchants who source, refine and sell caviar from various farms. Separate juries will judge each category.

Judges will score entries on appearance, texture, balance and length of flavour on the palate, with results determining the year’s most outstanding caviars.

When it comes to the judging panel, among the notable names are Gérald Passedat from Marseille’s Le Petit Nice, Pascal Garrigues of Monte-Carlo Beach, and Pierre Casiraghi, Vice-President of the Yacht Club. The panel also includes multiple Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (MOF) title holders, world freediving record holder Pierre Frolla, and Christian Garcia, chef to Monaco’s princely palace.

Beyond the competition

The blind tasting, scheduled from 10am to 2pm, represents just part of the day’s festivities. Some 220 guests will enjoy a premium cocktail reception followed by an exclusive ten-hands caviar dinner, where renowned chefs will collaborate on specially created dishes for the occasion.

“Caviar is no longer reserved for an elite few,” said Morin, who has worked in the caviar industry for over 15 years. “Thanks to the creativity of chefs, it’s now regarded in haute cuisine as a full-fledged ingredient, while retaining its aura of rarity.”

The event aims to celebrate caviar’s diversity while providing an international platform for producers, much like the already established competitions for wine and cheese

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Main photo credit: World Caviar Awards

The decision, announced by the Princely Government on Wednesday 29th October, builds on a model already in place in Monaco’s primary schools and is intended to strengthen student cohesion, promote a calm and respectful school atmosphere, and reinforce the school’s public image.

Each student will receive a starter pack containing four short-sleeved polo shirts, two hooded sweatshirts and a cap in burgundy and navy. The set will cost €140 and will be available for collection from the school, with home delivery also offered at an additional charge. Families may purchase further items individually if needed.

While the top half of the uniform is standardised, trousers or skirts will remain at the discretion of families, provided they are dark in colour to maintain a sense of visual unity. Students who fail to wear the required attire will not be allowed to attend class, officials have said.

The initiative follows significant modernisation efforts at Collège Charles III, including the school’s recent relocation to a new facility and the earlier introduction of a sports uniform for certain classes.

The introduction of a uniform at the secondary level is part of Monaco’s broader education strategy, which, according to the government, seeks to combine high academic standards with a shared sense of identity, discipline and belonging among students.

See also: 

Collège Charles III opens its doors: a new era of education in Monaco

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Photo compilation by Monaco Life

]]> https://monacolife.net/beausoleil-mayoral-candidate-nicolas-spinelli-to-hold-public-meeting/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:00:01 +0000 https://monacolife.net/?p=115179 Nicolas Spinelli, an independent candidate for mayor of Beausoleil, will hold a public meeting on November 6th at 7pm at the Centre Culturel Prince Jacques. 

The meeting comes as part of Spinelli’s campaign for the municipal elections scheduled for 15th and 22nd March 2026, which will determine the town’s mayor until 2032. Beausoleil, which shares a border and close ties with Monaco, is preparing for an election that Spinelli says will address key issues including the relationship between the two neighbours.

During this meeting, Spinelli plans to discuss his candidacy, clarify Beausoleil’s political situation, and present the main lines of his programme. Key topics will include excessive urbanisation in the town, fighting corruption, security concerns, transparency in municipal action, and relations between Beausoleil and Monaco. Doors will open to the public at 6:30pm, and a “surprise” has been planned for 7pm when the formal programme begins.

Building a programme with residents

Spinelli’s campaign has launched a citizen consultation running from October 1st until December 15th, inviting residents to share their views on the town’s future. The campaign, where participants can contribute anonymously or provide contact details, promises to visit every neighbourhood to meet with residents, including young people, working professionals, retirees, families, shopkeepers, associations, and representative from sports, culture and health sectors.

The candidate describes his list as totally independent from property developers and political parties, stating that “the only people we will work for are the people of Beausoleil”.

Spinelli has previously served as an elected official in Beausoleil for 18 years, holding positions including municipal councillor, deputy mayor, CCAS administrator, and vice-president of CARF.

Among the priority projects outlined in his campaign are the development of the Devens area into a sports and leisure centre, the creation of a municipal retirement home, and the reorganisation of the municipal market.

A question-and-answer session and informal reception will follow the speeches. The event will take place at the Centre Culturel Prince Jacques, located at 6/8 avenue du Général de Gaulle in Beausoleil.

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Main photo provided by Nicolas Spinelli 

The charity’s 21st Monaco Red Nose Day takes place on December 6th, timed to coincide with Saint Nicholas Day. However, this year brings something different – a special collector’s edition featuring every red nose design released since 2005. It’s a chance for long time supporters to revisit old favourites and for newcomers to see how the campaign has evolved.

Les Enfants de Frankie has been supporting sick, disabled and disadvantaged children across Monaco and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region since 1997. Meanwhile, the association gained additional recognition in 2023 when Prince Albert II became its honorary president.

The collector’s range includes the classic red nose that started it all, along with the cheerful yellow smiley variations featuring stars, hearts, and winks that came later. There are also red and white versions, shopping bags, and Christmas baubles. All items are priced at €2.50 for noses and bags, and €5 for baubles, with every cent going directly to help vulnerable children.

Where and When

Sales already kicked off in mid-October and run through to the end of December. The red noses will be available at familiar spots including Carrefour, post offices across Monaco, local pharmacies, and at dedicated charity stands. The association will set up stands at Princess Grace Hospital in October 22nd and November 5th from 11am to 4pm, at the train station on October 29th from 8am to 6pm, and at Fontvieille Shopping Centre on November 12th and December 6th from 9am to 6pm.

This year also brings a social media element to the campaign. Supporters are encouraged to share photos or videos wearing their red noses with the hashtag #FrankieMonaco. The most popular post wins a prize from Frankie, the charity’s clown mascot. The idea is to spread awareness beyond Monaco’s borders and give the campaign a wider reach.

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Main photo credit: Les Enfants de Frankie Facebook

The Ligue 1 club organised several initiatives around the match at Stade Louis II to raise awareness about breast cancer screening and support fundraising for research.

Valérie Barilaro, president of Ecoute Cancer Réconfort, had the honour of performing the ceremonial kick-off alongside Milène, an active member of the association. For Barilaro and her team, it was recognition of over three decades of vital work supporting cancer patients in the region.

The Monaco-based association, founded in 1992, provides a true lifeline to those battling cancer through volunteer listeners at the Princess Grace Hospital’s day unit. Additionally, the association also runs a wellbeing space called ‘L’espace Mieux-Etre’ where patients can access various activities and emotional support, designed to help them through their treatment and break the isolation that often accompanies illness.

Meanwhile, Monaco’s players wore special pink shirts during the warm up, featuring the association’s logo before the match, while club director general Thiago Scuro presented a signed shirt to Barilaro. Members of the association were also invited as guests to watch the game.

The pink theme extended throughout the stadium, with staff, stewards and hostesses all wearing pink ribbons, and prevention messages were also displayed on LED boards during the match.

Lastly, the club’s digital platforms, including their website and social media accounts, were also given a pink makeover for 72 hours over the weekend.

The initiative forms part of Monaco’s AS Monacoeur social responsibility programme, which has supported the Octobre Rose campaign for several years

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Main photo source: AS Monaco