Luxurious Revelry: Experiencing the Extravagance of Monaco Grand Prix Festivities
Monaco, known as 'the billionaires' playground,' transforms into a realm of unparalleled opulence during the three-day Grand Prix event, where ostentation reaches new heights of extravagance.
The Monaco Grand Prix is set to begin this weekend in Monte Carlo, offering a thrilling mix of glamour and excitement. It attracts tens of thousands to the principality and captivates millions watching worldwide.
Even those who are not usually interested in motorsports can be drawn in by the impressive sight of Formula One cars racing through the city's narrow streets.
You will also see celebrities enjoying themselves as they navigate through the crowds and cameras. Last year, Spider-Man actor Tom Holland described it as an electrifying experience unlike any other event he has attended.
Additionally, you will find a display of wealth at the event.
British driver Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes looks walks the drivers parade before the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Circuit de Monaco on May 28, 2023.
British driver Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes looks walks the drivers parade before the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Circuit de Monaco on May 28, 2023.
Monaco is known as “the billionaires’ playground” for a reason. In this city, you can find designer stores, supercars, multi-million-dollar yachts, and incredibly expensive restaurants as the norm. However, during the three-day Grand Prix, the extravagance reaches a whole new level.
When demand is high and options are limited, the world’s wealthiest are eager to enjoy the iconic location of the race and party until dawn.
If they don't have their own superyacht, they may choose to stay in a private villa on the Côte d’Azur or book a room at luxury hotels like Fairmont Hotel, Hôtel Hermitage, or Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo.
A trendsetter in the Grand Prix party scene
When it comes to Grand Prix festivities, it's not just about scoring the most luxurious accommodations. It's also about discovering the top restaurants and nightclubs. Whether you're aiming for a prime table at Cipriani, Sass Café, or Café de Paris, or snagging the best booth at hot spots like Jimmy'z or Amber Lounge.
Amber Lounge, established in 2003 by former racing driver Eddie Irvine’s sister Sonia, is known as the ultimate destination for the F1 community. It has been frequented by top drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, as well as celebrities such as Justin Bieber, Kim Kardashian, Kylie Minogue, and Prince Albert of Monaco. The lounge was created as a place for drivers and VIP guests to unwind after races, and it is considered a trailblazer in the Grand Prix party scene.
Notably, the upcoming event will celebrate its 20-year milestone, which includes a year off due to Covid. It is known as "the most exclusive party in the world" and will take place in Monaco over the weekend. The three nights of events will cost just over €1.5m ($1.6m) to produce.
Ticket prices for yacht parties on race day are several thousand dollars.
Ticket prices for yacht parties on race day are several thousand dollars.
Arny North
There will be after parties at an Amber Lounge beach club on the terrace of Le Meridien Beach Plaza (the only hotel in Monte Carlo with its own private beach), as well as VIP viewing of the race from aboard a 108ft superyacht moored just feet from the circuit’s famous Tabac corner.
“The size of the yacht also means we are as close to the action as you can get, unlike the larger yachts that are pulled back (from the coast). It also feels more intimate and exclusive on board. We have a lot of repeat clients (typically from the US, UK and Middle East) who want to network and build relationships,” said Lauren Green, Managing Director of Amber Lounge who oversees logistics of the three-day pop-up event in Monaco, as well as other F1 locations including Singapore, Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi.
Unsurprisingly, a ticket to one of the most coveted trackside spots does not come cheap.
Photo Illustration by Jason Lancaster/CNN; courtesy Bob's Watches
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A one-day VIP viewing package for the race on Sunday costs €3,500 ($3,800) per person. All 65 tickets were sold out within two weeks of going on sale in May 2023.
The dress code for the event is ‘Riviera chic,’ which means that shoes, no matter how expensive, must be taken off before boarding the yacht to prevent damage to the teak decking. Tickets come with unlimited drinks such as champagne, wine, and signature cocktails, as well as food, a DJ, and dancers. The tenders will bring guests back to shore at 6.30pm.
Many refer to this event as ‘The center of the universe for a weekend’.
At the club’s after parties during the race weekend, a team of servers are ready to offer drinks to a crowd of 1000 people on Saturday and Sunday nights. Guests are greeted by ringing a bell and receiving a glass of champagne from a gloved hand through a flower wall. Entry to the afterparty on Saturday (F1 qualifying day) costs around €600 ($650), while on Sunday (race day) it goes up to €800 ($870). People pay this amount hoping to mingle with drivers, celebrities, and high net worth individuals in a private setting away from the public eye.
Some bottles of champagne at Amber Lounge afterparties can cost €20,000 ($21,600).
Some bottles of champagne at Amber Lounge afterparties can cost €20,000 ($21,600).
Joash Lee
For €40,000 ($43,400), partygoers can book a "diamond table package" for 10 people. This package includes a prime table with unobstructed views of the stage and DJ booth featuring acts like Fatman Scoop and Jax Jones in 2024. Guests can also enjoy cirqus-themed performances, Methuselahs of champagne (6-liters), and premium vodka. For an additional €10,000 ($10,800), partygoers can opt for a Salmanazar, a nine-liter bottle of champagne that requires a team of four to carry it to the table. Alternatively, for €20,000 ($21,600), guests can upgrade to a 12-liter Balthazar-sized bottle.
The top-tier tables come with their own "hosts" who serve as concierges. These hosts liaise with VIPs' assistants or drivers to ensure that guests are greeted and escorted along the black carpet without having to wait in line.
Monte Carlo is not only known for hosting the exclusive and pricey Amber Lounge event during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, but it is also a vibrant party destination. It is not uncommon to see champagne glasses and bottles being cleaned up from the track after a night of celebration, just in time for the qualifying or race sessions the next day.
Lewis Hamilton is photographed prior to final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 18 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Lewis Hamilton is photographed prior to final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 18 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Lars Baron/Getty Images
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"The Côte d’Azur is truly a remarkable global destination, with Monaco at its very core. The breathtaking scenery, elegance, and luxury are truly unparalleled," mentioned Bruce Bundrant, Senior Vice President of Business Development for rEvolution, a global sports marketing agency who resided in Monaco for three years while serving as the Commercial Director for AS Monaco FC.
"As someone who has lived in Monaco before, I can attest to the two different perspectives of the F1 Grand Prix taking place in Monaco. On one hand, your town becomes the focal point of the world for a weekend, where the elite from all corners of the globe gather for extravagant parties and events on yachts, in luxury hotel suites, and hilltop mansions," Bundrant elaborated.
Fans watch the action during qualifying at the F1 Monaco Grand Prix.
Fans watch the action during qualifying at the F1 Monaco Grand Prix.
During the Grand Prix weekend in Monaco, the atmosphere is a unique blend of excitement and chaos. A week before the race, locals rush to empty grocery store shelves in anticipation of the gridlock that comes with the F1 circus taking over the principality. Your favorite neighborhood bar transforms into a hot spot, with long lines, a $100 cover charge, and drinks that cost double the usual price. Despite the high costs, the experience is one-of-a-kind, filled with an electrifying buzz and energy that cannot be replicated. But once the race weekend is over, everything returns to normal in Monaco.
In Monaco, even amidst all the extravagance, things go back to normal once the jet set crowd leaves and the racetrack is taken down. The bustling Amber Lounge club is also dismantled as they gear up for their next F1 event in Singapore in September.
According to Green, there's never a dull moment at Amber Lounge. It's all about adrenaline and lots of coffee to keep up with the fast-paced environment.
Editor's P/S:
The Monaco Grand Prix encapsulates the pinnacle of glamour and excitement in the world of motorsports. As Formula One cars thunder through the city's narrow streets, the event attracts not only racing enthusiasts but also celebrities and high-net-worth individuals seeking an unforgettable experience. The iconic location, combined with the display of wealth and extravagance, creates a unique atmosphere that sets the Monaco Grand Prix apart from other races on the calendar.
For those who prioritize exclusivity and opulence, Amber Lounge stands as the ultimate destination during the Grand Prix weekend. Its luxurious setting, frequented by F1 drivers, celebrities, and VIP guests, offers an unparalleled opportunity for networking and socializing. The high prices and strict dress codes may deter some, but for those who seek an unforgettable experience, Amber Lounge provides a glimpse into the glamorous world of high-stakes entertainment and elite parties.
