First Port of Call: Monte Carlo!

Today, the Ruby Princess docked at Monte Carlo!! Since my mom and I had already been here twice, my mom thought it would be nice to do something no one has done! One wrong direction, one bus ride, and about a mile walking later, we arrived at the Villa Rothschild. Located between Monaco and Villa Franche, it has 7 gardens (4 of which we walked through) and the manor over looking two harbors. In the first garden located outside the manor doors, there was a fountain water show every 20 minutes accompanied by orchestra and opera music. The atmosphere was relaxing, just what we all needed. Honestly, it was gorgeous! Built for a princess. The couple that built the villa died without any children, so it is open for visitors. We ventured through the exotic garden. Well, I guess their idea of exotic was plants native to California, cacti. The garden just below was inspired by Beatrice's visits to Asia. Although my grandma didn't want to walk through, I took the camera and snapped around 20 pictures worthy of a post card. Honestly, you couldn't go wrong! For lunch, we ate in the cafe inside the manor. Interestingly enough, it is located just outside the dining room where Beatrice and Rothschild guests dined on a nightly basis. The view was stunning, and we were sad to leave it.

After walking the same mile and taking the same bus back, I thought it would be a great idea to go to the casino since my grandma hadn't seen it. Even though we managed to get to a villa neither of us had been before, getting to Monte Carlo Casino, where my mom and I had been twice, was a completely different story. My mom thought taking the public bus would be easier than walking. Knowing that we were going to the casino, the bus driver didn't inform us that the only bus stop would be the stop for the elevator, so we missed it. Then, we had to walk all the way back through the tunnel and figure out how to get into the correct elevator. What there aren't signs for is you have to go down one elevator, cross the street underground, and then go up from there. At least if you ever go it will be easier for you.

And there it was, Monte Carlo Casino in all its glory. Parked outside are the Ferraris and Masseratis of the wealthy gamblers inside. This is popular for tourists because its not everyday you see a car worth more than your lifetime earnings! The view of the Med is exceptional from there as well. Although we've been there multiple times, we've never gone into the casino because it costs 10 euros just to get in. Imagine how much you'll lose gambling! Even though it was difficult getting there, returning to the ship was as easy as can be when you take a water boat!

Our next stop is Florence! Can't wait!