Jo‑Ann Strauss Heads to Monaco During Europe’s Heatwave

A Quick Getaway with Friends and Family

As a scorching heatwave rolls across Europe, former Miss South Africa Jo‑Ann Strauss packed her bags and headed for the sunny shores of Monaco. She wasn’t alone—her two eldest children joined her for the trip, making it a mini‑family adventure.

Why Monaco Feels Like Home

Jo‑Ann has a long history with the French Riviera. Over the years she has:

• Hosted a charity gala for the Princess Charlene Foundation.
• Supported Princess Caroline’s Amade Mondiale events.
• Scored an exclusive interview with Princess Charlene Wittstock right before the royal wedding while working as a Top Billing presenter.

These experiences have turned Monaco into a place she feels truly connected to.

Lunch with a View

Her first Instagram update showed a carousel of photos and videos from a lunch overlooking the Mediterranean. She wrote:

“The hottest summer in Europe with the hottest friends 😜 absolutely grateful for a quick trip to the south of France to meet friends who have become like family. And truffle pizza from the legendary @loulourestaurants and perfectly cooked sea bass.”

She added, “Honestly, a lunch I’ll enjoy forever. There’s a reason the French Riviera is exactly the place it thinks it is.”

Exploring the Principality with the “Big Kids”

Next, Jo‑Ann shared glimpses of her flight and some sightseeing with her older children. In her caption she said:

“The Principality of Monaco has had a special place in my heart since I hosted an event with Princess Caroline decades ago and later the first Princess Charlene founding event on Monaco soil. I’m grateful to have been there this time with our oldest children and to have friends who always make us feel welcome. Merci!”

From Monaco to Munich: A Playful Stop

After enjoying the Riviera, Jo‑Ann’s journey continued to Germany. She teased her followers with a fun caption:

“Next stop, our second hometown… Guess the city… and it’s actually called Monaco too… Yes, Munich is Monaco in Italian… city of the monks… who also introduced us to beer 🍺.”

The post highlighted the linguistic joke that “Monaco” in Italian can refer to Munich, showing her light‑hearted side.

Why the French Riviera Holds a Special Place

Jo‑Ann’s repeated visits to Monaco aren’t just about glamour. They reflect:

• Long‑standing friendships with local personalities.
• Her passion for charitable work tied to the royal family.
• A personal love for the region’s food, scenery, and relaxed vibe.

Even amid a blistering European summer, she finds comfort and joy returning to a place that feels like a second home.

Conclusion

Jo‑Ann Strauss’s recent trip to Monaco perfectly blends family time, friendship, and a touch of nostalgia. From a delicious lunch with a sea view to exploring the sights with her kids and ending with a playful nod to Munich, her journey captures why the French Riviera continues to draw her back year after year. As the heatwave persists, her sunny escapades remind us all that a little travel—and good company—can make even the hottest days feel a bit cooler.