Monaco

Known as Europe's tax heaven, each and every individual citizen of Monaco enjoys a tax-free lifestyle since the 1870s. For decades, Monaco lived off solely on its casinos. At present, Monaco's current efforts to diversify its economy have made tourism its number one source of income and casino profits only at five percents. Fun fact: Citizens of Monaco are not allowed to gamble, nor even visit the casinos.

Many thanks to Rafal for sending me a card from his trip to Monaco! :)

Monaco

Monaco is a sovereign city state on the French Riviera. It is bordered on three sides by its neighbour, France, and its centre is about 16 km from Italy.. Its area is 1.98 km² with a population of 35,986 as of 2011 and is the most densely populated country in the world. Monaco is a principality governed under a form of constitutional monarchy, with Prince Albert II as head of state. The House of Grimaldi has ruled Monaco, with brief interruptions, since 1297. The state's sovereignty was officially recognized by the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861. Despite Monaco being independent and pursuing its own foreign policy course, its national defence is the responsibility of France. Citizens of Monaco are called Monacans, while Monegasque is the proper term for describing someone who was born in Monaco. I was lucky enough to visit and spend a great time in Monaco, it's really beautiful place.

Arnaud used some great stamps, including one commemorating Royal Wedding that was held earlier this year. Prince Albert II married former South African swimmer Charlene Wittstock on 1 July 2011. Arnaud, merci beaucoup!

Monaco

Monaco is stunning place in southern part of Europe. I am so happy that I had an opportunity to visit it, and I spent great time there. Many thanks to Nicole for great postcard!