Enjoying life in Monaco and Monte Carlo

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February 3rd Newsletter

The Day the Music Died. (1)

There was light in the sky at 7am yesterday and it feels like we're inching towards Spring.

Winter holidays start after classes tomorrow, when kids get two weeks' break. They return to school on 21 February. For those remaining in Monaco the NMNM is organising creative workshops, the Musee d'Anthropologie is talking about prehistoric populations, the Musee Oceanographique has ocean-themed activities, and Princess Caroline Children's Library has a variety of classes.

As for Covid, the Government continues to encourage teleworking until 4 March. You might have spotted the #GOVAX "ensemble contra la Covid" ads in the media. Scan the QR code and it directs Monegasques, residents and workers to a form to request a vaccine reminder.

Monaco Matin carried a two-page spread on the Princess Grace Hospital last Friday, where due to heavy workloads and staff illness, A&E waiting times are now over 2 hours. At the weekend 87 patients were being treated there for Covid, a record number since the start of the pandemic.

Over in France restrictions have been eased and masks are no longer mandatory outdoors. From 16 February you'll be able to stand around in bars, jostle with crowds at concerts and strut your funky stuff at the disco. Sports stadiums will be able to welcome as many spectators as they have seats, but masks and health passes will be required.

Speaking of sport, Monaco athletes have arrived in China for the Winter Olympics. Arnaud Alessandria is competing in the men's downhill Alpine skiing on Sunday. Next week it's the turn of the 2-man bobsleigh team Rudy Rinaldi, Boris Vain (and sub Anthony Rinaldi).

And finally...

Fondation Albert II is organising its second Environment Photography Award, open to amateurs and professionals. Entries up to 20 March. Good luck!

What's in the diary...