In Monaco right now, the talk is all about shoes. Not the shoes that people actually wear - which would be Gucci or Fendi - but the shoes that need to be 'filled' since the death of Prince Rainier III in April this year. Rainier was the longest-reigning western monarch of modern times. He spent 56 years on the throne of Monaco, outstripping even Queen Elizabeth II. In monarchist circles, this is called 'continuity'.

"Playboy Prince" Albert has less play time these days now that he's the ruler of Monaco, but he's not complaining.

Prince Rainier of Monaco is dead, long live the prince. In Monaco, history is changing. Deeply grieved of his father's death, Prince Albert will have to quickly recover so as to fully dedicate himself to the state's affairs.