Monaco

Last Saturday we zipped down to Nice via the TGV. This was the first time we got to ride the famous high speed train, and I must say it is a nice way to travel. That you can get from Paris to Marseille in 3 hours is impressive, and probably not much slower than an airplane after taking into account all the boarding/unboarding/security hassles.
Anyway, we spent Saturday afternoon and evening in a very touristy Nice where we ate some good italian pizza. The next morning we woke up early to take the 20 min train to Monaco for the famous Grand Prix, only to find that fans were already lined up at the station! The wait wasn't actually too bad, and we were able to get all the way to the city and through the crowded streets up to our hillside section. The view was pretty good considering the relative cheapness of the tickets. However, parts of the pathways were crowded and a squeeze to get through, and the better viewing spots were pretty competitive. Having to guard our position the whole time was the main downside to this area. We didn't mind the fact that we were standing for the whole race and a few hours before (exceptional, considering that my back starts hurting 5 minutes into an art museum visit!).
The most memorable part of this event is the atmosphere. Normally you watch auto racing at an expansive track out in the middle of nowhere. Monaco could not be more different, situated on the side of a mountain which descends into the sea. The city barely has room for a train station; most of it is carved into the mountain side. The last picture in the set below gives you an idea of this unique setting: mountain side, city high rises, grand stands, harbor full of yachts.
The people themselves are also interesting, some looking like regular sport fans while others practically ready to attend a wedding (suits, dresses, high heels). Fancy parties abound during race weekend!
Pictures: Paris, Nice, and Monaco