Once crowned Miss Ukraine, Zhanna Pikhulya now makes her home in Monaco and shares all her favs with us this week. Zhanna arrived in Monaco about 10 years ago to get her MBA in Luxury Brand Management at IUM. Since then she has been a busy entrepreneur, from creating her own luxury handbag collection to promoting concerts and events, to doing PR for the Billionaire Group. She is now discovering the world of real estate in Monaco and the French Riviera with the Red White Group. She loves introducing people to the region and helping them find or construct their dream property.
IG: @zhanna_monaco, @redwhitegroup_mc
I get my morning coffee and croissant here
I’m a big fan of albicocca (apricot) croissants and cappuccino at Bar de Moulins, so It’s very common to see me around there, committing the ultimate croissant crime.
My favourite lunch spot
I love so many places for lunch in Monaco, but especially Cova and Mada One. Cova is my long love story since the time I worked for the Billionaire Group, so it’s like coming home. And Mada One doesn’t cease to amaze me with the variety of its lunch options. They also make the perfect matcha latte with lait d’avoine, just how I like it!
Best Friday night aperitif
For a casual drink its Gerhard’s Café, which is my neighbourhood. If I am in a dressy mood, then it’s Bar American, where everything sparkles and shines.
Annual event I never miss
I never miss the ballet performances at the Grimaldi Forum between Christmas and New Year. New Year’s never arrives without the Nutcracker!
Favourite time of year in the Principality
Off season in Monaco is the best, when its mostly locals. I particularly love April and May before the Grand Prix, when the weather starts to warm up but it’s not hot yet.
My best Monaco workout
I regularly attend Barre Classes at the MsFit studio and otherwise, just walking, walking, walking. Clockwise, counter-clockwise, from Fontvielle to Casino square and back, you name it. Monaco is a perfect walking city.
Where I go/what I do for “me time”
I put on my favourite podcast or some other wise people talking on YouTube in my ears and I head towards the sea. Meditation by the sea is my best medicine ever, walking bare feet in cold wintery water recharges my batteries like magic.
My go-to shop for last minute gifts
Depends on the budget, but Segraeti in Metropole Shopping Center never lets me down, as well as APM Monaco in the same place for well-designed local jewellery.
A hidden gem I’m willing to share
Maison Noir in the Condamine for young, hip street clothing. It’s very cool and unlike all the upscale brands in town. On same street, Rue de Millo, is KOMO and a few other great shops.
Best day trip out of town
I love a big hike, so if not Tête de Chien, I do the walk around Cap Ferrat.
The one thing I would change about Monaco if I could
If I could, I would put huge fines on people leaving dog poop uncollected on the street. Honestly, something has to be done about it!
The Shout Out
Papalin’s Pressing is my little drycleaner. They are well priced and do a great job.
Thanks for sharing your Monaco, Zhanna!
BELOW: Zhanna with daughter Stella, and dog Larry
