Day 8 - Old Friends and Swimming Pools

0745: Swift check out from the HP. have thoroughly enjoyed my stay here, but as the saying goes 'all good things must end'. The team filmed a time lapse sequence from my hotel window; it took nearly 3 hours. I hope it's worth it! There was an immense firework display at 10pm last night; very loud and colourful. All I could hear was little pups howling and barking, poor things.

0748: Arrive at The Metropole and check in.

0800: Met by Michelle Bouillet-Escale the hotel's PR Director. Immediately got the right feeling about today's shoot. I am checked into Suite 703, the Executive Floor, complete with large living area with superb chandelier, dressing area and bathroom with the most enormous shower area I have EVER seen - probably enough space in their for 20 people. There is also a balcony over looking the casino square.


Michelle: probably one of the best PRs I have ever worked with!

0930: Start filming. The Metropole was built in 1886 but underwent a complete renovation under the direction of Jacques Garcia (of Hotel Costes and now Old Course Hotel in St Andrews fame). There are 146 rooms including 64 suites; it's modern but classic. Vito Romeo, the Hotel Manager, was on hand to ensure all was working for us.

1030: My Bentley arrives for my introduction piece. I am now not excited by any car I see.

1130: Into the only E'Spa Spa in France or Monaco. It has ten treatments rooms and very nice ambience. On the 3rd floor there’s an outdoor swimming pool, which contains heated, 'cleaned' seawater! Having a wee sun rash on my back from Portugal made the experience a little painful!

1400: Lunch with Isabelle Ughes from Make It Perfect who will be my personal shopper for my shopping feature later this week. She has promised to get me some pyjamas for a prop I need.

1500: Interviews with the Doorman (David), Head Concierge (Serge), Guest Relations Manager (Barbara) and finally Housekeeper (Marilyn) - we are trying to shake things up a bit!

1800: Finally the room review! We are all totally exhausted. It's been a special day as a very old and dear friend popped into say hello from Canada and Barcelona. Only here for today though.

2030: We all go out for a wonderful dinner in Fontvieille (Ceccio and Pepe) wonderful real Italian food 'like Mama would make' to end a lovely day. Home after midnight and a couple of limoncellas! Tim and Tom have been working too hard; tomorrow we may all stay in and play cards!

Weather: Mr Blue Sky

Song of the Day: Mr Blue Sky (ELO)