Reviewing a holiday in Monaco.

Monaco is a country where you start to wonder about your life choices. If your concept of luxury is a cup of coffee without a tiny house, it is little, exquisite, and perhaps even a little scary. This small country has more yachts, Ferraris, and designer stores than any sensible person could count in a week. It is hidden on the French Riviera. Still, somehow it works. The streets sparkle with an easy combination of riches and Mediterranean charm that is difficult to resist, even if your pocket is shaking at the mere sight of a croissant.

A trip to Monaco teaches one about contrasts. You can imagine yourself in a medieval drama as you stroll the Prince's Palace in the morning, only to have your dream cut short by the bright curves of a supercar convoy roaring past. With its traditional architecture, rich interiors, and views over the glittering harbour that make it seem like you've stepped into a postcard, the palace itself is quite lovely. Mainly because the guards are so stoic, you have to wonder if they ever consider Netflix or pizza like the rest of us, the changing of the guard is a must-see.

Still another sight is the Monte Carlo casino. Walking inside gives one the impression of entering a film set. Chandeliers, velvet, and folks who obviously have a lot more money than sense. It's worth stopping in for a glimpse of the glitz even if you're not a gambler. Don't ever try to fit in. That's good; your informal holiday t-shirt will instantly mark you off as a novice. Frankly, watching from the sidelines is far more fun anyhow.

It's excellent that Monaco is so walkable; after lunch at any of its Michelin-starred restaurants, you'll need the exercise. People-watching is ideal along the ocean promenade; the views of yachts so huge they might serve as flats are pretty amazing. The gardens of the city are hidden in every nook and cranny, providing quiet getaways where you may fantasise that the world has not become a stage for the wealthy and celebrities.

The arrogance of Monaco's utter extravagance is among its attractions. Fans of Formula One will appreciate the Grand Prix, when the small streets become a frenzied racetrack; even if you don't like cars, the enthusiasm is contagious. And if you see a celebrity having lunch, try not to stumble over your own shoes out of delight.

Monaco finally makes one value the absurdities of travel. Yes, it's beautiful, but it's also surprisingly human. It's funny to see people taking selfies with $200,000 watches, and it's kind of comforting to walk down streets where everyone looks so impossibly poised. You will leave with sunburn, aching feet, and a little damaged ego, but also with recollections as vivid as the Mediterranean waters around this small, amazing principality.