David Coulthard's hotel in Monaco

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12 FEBRUARY 2004
The principality of Monaco is well-known as a playground for the rich and famous, so where should you stay if you want to rub shoulders with the in-crowd and possibly even dine alongside one of the Grimaldi royal family? Look no further than the ultra-cool and incredibly stylish Columbus Hotel, part-owned by Formula One racing ace David Coulthard, a local resident.

Perfectly situated by Monte Carlo's second harbour, Fontvieille, it overlooks the Mediterranean on one side and the peaceful Princess Grace Rose Gardens on the other. Monaco's ruler Prince Rainier and his heir Prince Albert attended the inauguration of the hotel in 2001, and Albert's sister Princess Stephanie is among the guests who've since availed themselves of its hospitality. Others who have sampled its gorgeous designer bedrooms and guest areas include Naomi Campbell and David and Victoria Beckham.

Created by award-winning interior designer Amanda Rosa, the Columbus' bedrooms and suites are decorated in cool tones and are all fully equipped with an interactive TV system, CD stereo system and Playstation. Bathrooms feature power showers, large baths and toiletries created exclusively for the hotel.

Adjacent to the lobby lie the bar and trendy brasserie, which have become two of the hippest drinking and dining spots on the Cote d'Azur. Other facilities include a high-tech fitness centre plus an Art Deco outdoor pool. The concierge can arrange for guests arriving at Nice airport to be whisked by helicopter to the Columbus and can also rent you the hotel's powerboat for the day, providing canapés and champagne to complete the VIP dream.

But the best feature of all? The Columbus' room rates, which, considering its superb facilities, hip atmosphere and A-list clientele, are pretty reasonable for a millionaires' playground. For more information, visit www.columbushotels.com or tel: +377 92 05 9000.