A grand time at the Monaco grand prix

It is the playground for the rich and famous, and every year Monaco is permeated by the smell of burning rubber when the Formula 1 carnival rolls into town.

The Monaco Grand Prix is only a couple of weeks away, and motorsport fans are busy booking up their places at the event, a highlight in the grand prix calendar.

Formula 1 by its very nature is a glamorous sport, but it does not come any more glamorous than at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Between May 25th and 28th 2006, the world's fastest drivers and their teams will come to the wealthy principality to battle it out for the top podium position.

Fans keen to see the likes of Michael Schumacher and Britain's very own Jenson Button in action would do well to pick up a few tips before heading out to Monaco.

Those who are unlucky enough not to get one of the 3,000 tickets should not despair, as a number of cheaper tickets are kept aside for those who can sit on the grassy hillside and take in the race and atmosphere. These tickets cost around €30.

There will also be tickets on sale on the streets, from normal people and official street vendors. Holidaymakers are advised to try the official outlets first, before moving onto the other vendors.

Finding a place to stay in the relatively small principality can be problematic, but race-goers should be aware that many locals move out for the race season and rent out their properties for the four days.

While these can be pricey, they will also be convenient and, with it being rich Monaco, probably fairly snazzy too. Check out the International Herald Tribune and Nice Monaco Matin newspapers for more details.

There are plenty of other attractions in Monaco to keep the tourist entertained, in addition to the grand prix, such as the Monte Carlo casino and a string of fancy, designer shops.

For more information on the Monaco Grand Prix, visit www.formula1.com
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