Prince Albert II and Michel Roger are given the CREM tour Photo by Eric Mathon REALIS

CREM (Club des résidents étrangers de Monaco) like its acronym suggests has pedigree. Prince Albert II and Minister of State Michel Roger cut the ribbon to the premises which are at the foot of the Mirabeau building (1 ave Princesse Grace), formerly a hotel and now luxury apartments owned by the Barclay brothers. They are not charging CREM rent for the 220sqm space, while builders (Patrice Pastor) who converted it into two spacious lounges with bar gave their services free, as did Lady Tina Green (wife of British retail billionaire Sir Philip Green) for the contemporary yet wonderfully comfortable and welcoming interior design.

Plush cream carpets, dark brown leather tables, black and gold for the settees and cushions, games tables (cards, backgammon etc), billiards, piano, library and a large flat screen TV have combined to create a chic ambiance that is entirely suited to the Principality at this level.

The team of 11 volunteers are led by CREM’s initiator and President Louisette Levy-Soussan Azzoaglio (long-time personal assistant to Princess Grace) and one employee, Director Marilyne Pierre. Most speak fluent English but also Italian and German, and what they are offering is a chance for people to get under the skin of life in Monaco.

On the programme: cocktail evenings (this would be good place to watch World Cup matches), meetings with representatives of the professionals in Monaco, monthly talks on “life in Monaco” or themes involving renowned personalities, private visits to museums and exhibitions (like the Japanese expo at the Grimaldi Forum), and a programme of courses/workshops (cookery, wine tasting, photography, calligraphy, etc).

They already have 40 members and Mme Levy-Soussan Azzoaglio says the programme of events will be firmed up according to what the members want to do. It sounded rather vague but the concept, the contacts (at the highest level) and the obvious enthusiasm of all those involved should help this club find its position in the busy social calendar of the Principality.

Individual membership costs: 1,000 euro joining fee then 500 euro a year (750 euro for a couple) and for companies the price is 3,000 euro joining fee and 1,500 euro a year. CL

 www.crem.mc