On the morning of 27th March 2011, everybody sorted their own breakfast and Dominique & Mark came to our room to collect Lucas. This was the perfect opportunity to give Mark all the birthday cards from home. He got a lovely surprise and had a good giggle over them.
Even though it was an overcast day, with a bit of rain, we all headed off to the mystery location of Mark's 50th Birthday Lunch - looking gorgeous - Dominique, Mark, Georgina, Lucas, Michelle, Steve, Gianina, Christian, Laureen, Brodie & Ryan. We caught the light rail, then the train to Monte Carlo, then a taxi uphill for another 10 kms, to the most fantastic hotel, where we were to have lunch. Excellent food, presentation & service, all while feeling like you were sitting in an eagle's eyrie. Gianina & Christian had to leave after lunchhh, so they didn't miss their plane. The hotel then took us all down to Monte Carlo Casino, where we walked about a bit, in light misty rain, checking out the buildings,harbour, shops. We spent an hour or so gambling and admiring the decor of the casino, which keeps the economy of the principality going - Nobody bought a drink though - it was €14 ($19.20) for a gin & tonic!
On the homeward walk the rain got heavier and by the time we got back to Budgen's room everybody was soaked. Luckily we had a Portugese Port that Lucas had bought in Dubai for this occasion! It went well with the almond stuffed dates Dominique provided and leftover strawberries and cheese that Michelle had from my picnic!!!!
I'll post this and go back to my room to find the correct chord for photo download and come back and give it a go.
What a lovely day you sound like you all had for Mark's birthday....still don't know which casino you went to...was it the old or new?? Shame about the rain but really, what's a bit of water in the scheme of things...you all still had a great time Travel safe
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