Trip To Monte Carlo, Monaco
12th - 25th May 2006

Ah, the playground of the rich and famous – Monte Carlo, Monaco, a small independent state in the heart of Europe. The Principality of Monaco is considered by many as a mythic place between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. Since it was just a short drive from Nice, Master Yap Boh Chu decided to spend a few hours of sight-seeing there.

Curious, Master Yap had wanted to check out the environment of the Royal Residence – home of the Grimaldi Royal Family. Unfortunately, he did not manage to get in to the Residence as it was closed for visitors by the time he got there.

And in case you’re wondering, no, Master Yap didn’t step into any of the casinos in Monte Carlo since he’s not inclined to gamble!

Trip to St Paul de Vence, France
Another must-see place in France is St Paul de Vence, a lovely medieval village just about 1.5 hours of drive from Nice. Master Yap Boh Chu was taken on a tour by Nicolas Hardy, Yap Cheng Hai Academy’s Accredited Instructor for France.

The undisputed centre of art in France – it is said one cannot be considered a serious artist unless one has exhibited one’s works of art there – it was popular with famous artists such as Signac, Bonnard and Picasso. Even writers have found it a haven.

The ramparts that surround the village were built in the 16th century and remain intact today! If you don’t mind the long walk, you can even walk the whole way around village’s perimeter and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the sea in the distance.