It's easy to end up with a small fortune in Monaco - simply arrive with a large one! It's not a cheap place to stay in and starting your evening out in the casino is unlikely to help pay your way.
However, as long as you dress for the occasion, a visit to the casino is a great way to see what Monaco is all about. Jeans are a big no no, and something smarter will also help you feel at home.
While seeming like a sophisticated French resort, Monaco is actually a tiny, independent country. Its modern history started in 1297, when it was captured by Francois Grimaldi, disguised as a monk. He lost the principality a few years later, but it was soon bought back by the Grimaldis, who have ruled ever since.
The first casino was opened in 1856 to raise funds for the prince. It moved to Monte-Carlo soon afterwards and became very fashionable. Monte-Carlo was the world's most famous casino and wealth flowed in, helped by attractive tax concessions.
Monaco is so small, the best way to create space is to go downwards. Car parks, access roads and the railway and bus station are all underground. To create even more land,a 54 acre peninsula has been built out to the sea.
The marriage of Prince Rainier to American film actress Grace Kelly in 1956 captured the imagination of millions. They had three children; Caroline, Albert and Stéphanie, all since capable of attracting headlines. Princess Grace died in a car accident on the Grande Corniche in 1982.
Prince Rainier died in 2005 and was succeeded by Prince Albert. The history and glamour surrounding the royal family of the world's second smallest nation - only the Vatican is smaller - have been a huge factor in attracting visitors. The changing of the guard at the Royal Palace (11.55am daily) is still a popular attraction.
French is the official language alongside Monagasque, a variant of French. English is widely spoken but a few words of French will be appreciated in restaurants and cafes.
Hello/Goodbye - Bonjour/Au revoir
Please/Thank you - S'il vous plaît/Merci
Yes/No - Oui/Non
Numbers 1-10
1 - un or une; 2 - deux; 3 - trois; 4 - quatre; 5 - cinq, 6 - six, 7 - sept, 8 - huit, 9 - neuf, 10 - dix
The euro is the local currency. For duty and customs purposes, Monaco is treated as part of France and the EU. There many ATMs and a wide range of banks.
The national Monaco coins and banknotes have no value since the introduction of the euro but they are collectors' pieces.
To telephone a Monaco number dial 00 377 followed by the local number. To call a number in France from Monaco dial 00 33 followed by the number required without the initial 0. To call the UK from Monaco dial 00 44 followed by the number required omitting the initial 0. Perhaps best to take your mobile.