No matter where you're coming from your likely to land at the Nice - Cote d' Azure airport. To really experience this part of the world you are going to need a car. Think small and fast. If you are up for a convertible, Europcar will rent you an Alfa Romeo Spider for 290 Euros a day or a Mini Cooper convertible for around 195.

If you have a reservation, ignore the rental car booths, head to terminal 2, go out the front door and across the parking lot. There you'll find all the rental car agencies. For the Alfa they asked for two credit cards and took a 2,000 Euro deposit on each. Plan on 45 minutes or so to complete the process.

We had no troubles with this rental agency and would recommend them.

The Metropole is the most modern of the major hotels in Monte Carlo. At the time of our visit, in September 2007, only the top floors had been remodeled. This property is in a very good location. It is a very short walk to the main casino. The only hotel in the square with the casino is Hotel de Paris.

The photo to the right is of the sitting area in the hallway just outside our room, #702. There are hairdryers in the rooms. There is a 110v outlet in the bathroom that worked to charge camera batteries and cellphones. There was also one 220v to 110v adapter we moved around as needed.

There is no iron in the room and we were told, none in the hotel. We spent 90 Euros (9 Euros each for most items) to have the hotel press them for us. Laundry service is same day if you send it early enough.

Internet access is 20 Euros per day. The connection is dependable and fast.

There are two sections to the lobby bar. You may not enter the part closest to the restaurant after 7pm with shorts on. Although, it seemed dogs were allowed at any time.

T-shirts are ok but most men are wearing long sleeved shirts. Drinks here are around 8 Euros, about the same price as everywhere. We did not eat in the hotel restaurant as it appeared a jacket was required.

We enjoyed this hotel and would return.