Monaco, small independent principality of Europe, forming an enclave in southeastern France, bordered on the south by the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded on the north, east, and west by the French department of Alpes-Maritimes. The principality, which lies east of Nice, is a famous resort. The nation is 1.95 sq km (0.75 sq mi) in area. The population in the 1982 census was 29,876, and the 2001 estimate was 31,842. Monaco has one of the highest population densities of any nation in the world, 16,329 persons per sq km (42,293 per sq mi). The principality is composed of four districts: Monaco, the capital; La Condamine; Monte Carlo; and Fontvieille. The official language of the nation is French.

Although it’s more a pre-breakfast stroll than a country, Monaco packs a lot of living into a little land. Most of the people who dwell here come from somewhere else, drawn by the sun, glamourous lifestyle and – most importantly – tax-free income.

This is the playground of Europe’s elite, a country where Lady Luck might clean you out at the casino one day and put you on the Grimaldi guest list the next. It’s one glittering, preening, swanking opportunity for people watching that shouldn’t be passed up by amateur anthropologists.

For those whose ‘things to pack’ list doesn’t include a backless ballgown, Monaco can still be a hoot. Although you won’t find cheap digs, native culture or untouched wilderness, you can snap up a Prince Rainier commemorative mug, gawk at the limos outside the casino and surround yourself with topless wannabe starlets on Monte Carlo’s beach. Live it up.
Monaco, an ancient principality, covers about two square miles, and has been ruled since the 14th century by the Grimaldi family.

It has the highest population density of any country, enjoys many tax benefits, and of course it’s the home of the glittering Monte Carlo Casino