Nov 8 & 9

We docked in Monte Carlo, Monaco for a 2 day stay.  On the 8th we took an excursion up in the mountains, in France, to Eze, a small mountain village with only 15 full time inhabitants.  The drive gave us some spectacular views and the old village itself was a real treat.  We had a walking tour up many steps through narrow "streets" and had scenic views down to the sea side.  We returned to Monte Carlo and had a walking tour of the old town where the castle is and saw the changing of the guard.  Prince Albert II was in residence as evidenced by the royal flag flying, but he didn't come to greet us.  We saw the residences of the 2 princesses, the church where Prince Rainier & Grace Kelley were married and some other supposedly important buildings. We looked at menus at several restaurants and decided that the prices were outrageous for the menu offerings so returned to the ship for lunch. The 9th was debark & embark day where most of the guests left.  Only about 27 of us were in transit.  A lot of crew also were changing.  We walked around the harbor and up the hill to the famous casino and Hotel De Paris.  Both are very ornate and interesting to see.  We had to move to a different suite on the ship, but everything was moved for us so it was easy.  Our new room was ready when we returned and we spent the afternoon meeting up with old acquaintances.  Our  travel agent, Ngaire who is owner of Brown & Keene Travel, joined the ship with a group of clients which number around 60 for this segment.  There are quite a few we know from previous cruises.