It can sometimes take newcomers to Monaco some time to get accustomed to life here.  However, this is not the case with Emma Victoria Reeve and her husband Simon, who moved to the Principality from London three years ago and seem to have had no trouble settling right in.  As a luxury brand consultant who worked with Condé Nast and Burberry in London, Emma and her family are making the most of all the best Monaco has to offer.  Now with a new baby and their beloved Burmese cat, Mr Chow, they enjoy time at home and living in the moment. 

I get my morning coffee and croissant here

We go to Il Calcio, right opposite our apartment for strong Italian espresso and Casa del Caffé for the perfect crispy croissant.

My favourite lunch spot

Yoshi at The Metropole Hotel – you won’t find better sushi anywhere.

Best Friday night aperitif

Le Bar Américian at The Hotel de Paris. It’s perfect for a night out with friends.

Annual event I never miss

The tennis at the Rolex Monte-Carlo ATP Masters. It marks the start of the summer season in the Principality and it is the chicest event by far.

Favourite time of year in the Principality

We love Christmas here –  the Principality really turns on the magic.

My best Monaco workout

Lengths in the salt pool at Les Thermes Marins are the best.

Where I go or what I do for “me time”

Not exactly “me time” but it is a total treat to go to the new The Riviera Restaurant at The Maybourne Riviera just outside Monaco. Ask for table 54 and if you go for a sunset aperitivo, it feels like you are floating in a glass of rosé – the light is iridescent.

My go to shop for last minute gifts

Work in Progress (WIP) on blvd des Moulins is great for beautiful and original decorative pieces for the home. Also, Yves Delorme on the top floor of the Metropole shopping center has sensational embroidered cushions and soft furnishings from my favourite designer, Anke Drechsel. 

 A hidden gem I’m willing to share

Le Train Bleu for dinner (it lies quietly hidden in the Casino) and the discreet Cipriani Café at the bottom of the Odeon Tower. 

Best day trip out of town

For summer; nothing beats fritto misto di mare at La Spiaggetta at Balzi Rossi beach. Owners Vera and her husband make this beach club, in my opinion, the coolest in the area. Think less Pucci and more ERES… Also, this winter, I have re-fallen in love with Nice. Go to the Chagall Museé followed by lunch with the stylish locals at La Petite Maison. And if you still have stamina; hunt for treasure in the vast markets near the old town.

The one thing I would change about Monaco if I could

I wish all the shops and cafes were open on Sundays.

The Shout Out

I’ve got a few to share:  Maxime at Vog Hairdressing (top blow dry), Anaïs at Esthe Coach (Hydra facial) and Margot (for a manicure), Edoardo Cunsolo for personal training, Frank Carcamo at Le Piano Bar at The Maybourne Riviera (ask him to make you a vodka Southside gimlet) and finally Paolo Caretta, for your boat licence.

Thanks Emma, for sharing your Monaco!