I've always been a huge admirer of Le Labo fragrances. This New York based perfume house has been handcrafting made to-order concoctions since 2006. Le Labo’s crowning achievement, Rose 31 eau de parfum—features 31 ingredients around the legendary Centifolia Rose of Grasse, France, and punctuated with notes of cumin, cedar and amber—is already regarded as a cult classic within the perfume world.

I was lucky enough to travel all the way to Monte Carlo, and then Grasse, to witness one of the world's rarest roses in full bloom. Blossoming only once a year, we were fortunate enough to handpick a couple of roses and learn about the 31 different ingredients.

Rose 31’s magnificent blend of classicism and modernity aligns perfectly with the character of Fairmont. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts stock their rooms with the infamous Le Labo scent. During our short 2 night stay at Fairmont Monte Carlo, we were invited to try the world’s most coveted products from Le Labo - which also happened to add a whole new level of design to the aesthetic of my hotel bathroom.

This year, Fairmont and Le Labo have partnered together to create an exclusive storytelling sensory experience, sharing with guests the heart behind the Rose 31 product while exploring and documenting the annual Centifolia Rose harvest in Grasse, France.

DAY ONE

ARRIVAL

We travelled from Nice Airport and transferred to Fairmont Monte Carlo. Upon check in we ordered a little light lunch and explored the hotel.

After exploring the hotel, we met everyone for drinks and dinner at Nobu. It was a lovely opportunity to sit down and meet each-other properly. I'm so grateful to have been in such good company for the duration of my stay at Fairmont.

DAY 2

EN-ROUTE TO GRASSE

Met in the hotel lobby for our departure for Grasse via Helicopter. We were served a beautiful cup of coffee along with fresh croissants followed by a visit to Le Labo Rose fields and Olfactive workshop at their factory.

PARISIAN INSPIRED LUNCH IN GRASSE

I've never had an authentically prepared lunch and was so pleasantly surprised at finding this beautiful outdoor setup. We tried all sorts of beautiful dishes followed up with some homemade pies. This is going to be one meal which will stay with me for a lifetime. A special mention to the chef for preparing such an incredible feast.

After returning to Monte Carlo from Grasse, I was treated to a full body massage at Fairmont's spa. I was so thankful to have had time to squeeze it in before dinner, as it was the perfect way to unwind after the long flight in from Sydney.

DINNER AT OCEANIA AQUARIUM

Later on that evening, it began to rain quite heavily. So we were all thankful to be kept warm and dry as we explored the Oceania Aquarium. We had the entire building to ourselves, and the silence, vastness and architectural beauty of the space was quite a magnificent.

DAY 3

Had a quick breakfast at Nikki Beach at the top floor of the hotel followed by a flower bouquet workshop creating floral garlands. We were then transferred to Nice Airport.