Paris, the capital of France is one of the most significant and prominent cities in the world. It is the heart of international business and also a leading aesthetic center. It is a dominating factor in international education, politics, media, fashion, science and arts as well. Either you are a hopeless romantic or a passionate lover, or simply a lover of the nature, Paris is the place for you. A gleaming city of hope and love that sparkles with activity every time you choose to visit it.

Landmarks and Monuments

There are many significant landmarks in Paris, the main one being Eiffel Tower which is the favorite destination of lovers but there are many other world famous monuments which you might have not even heard about. Moulin Rouge, for instance, is a place that is very famous with tourists. Disneyland would surely cater to all the needs of your children and make them enjoy every bit of their time spent in Paris. The Champs-Elysees Avenue is another major tourist attraction which every visitor would fall in love with. There is also a gothic cathedral and a monument which has been built to pay tribute to the warriors who fought for France. These avenues must be visited to get a feel of the place.

Parks and Gardens

There is a copiousness of delightful parks and gardens in Paris. Whether you love flowers, greenery or plainly a little fresh air, you must luxuriate by taking random trips to these heavenly escapes from your fast paced life to enjoy the state of nirvana. Tuileries Garden on the banks of Seine is blissful experience if you can afford to let go of all your worries and sigh a breath of relief amongst this lush green garden. Left Bank Luxembourg is another garden known for its beauty, charm and splendor. These parks are extraordinarily popular with travelers.

Entertainment, Arts and Museums

No one can be unfamiliar with the popularity of Paris in this regard. World’s largest opera houses, ballets and shows have been consistently hosted by Paris. Getting a single glimpse of the places where these pioneers were shot is an achievement in itself. Theatres, dance clubs and various such activities have been initiated in Paris a long time ago.

Famous Industries

Paris is a pioneer when it comes to the field of fashion or beauty. The perfume making industries, fashion market and making of various accessories that somehow relate to this field describes Paris in the simplest way possible. Being a vehement traveler, I know every visitor aspires to make their own perfume with their individual choices of fragrances; this dream has a chance to come true in the confines of this enchanting city. Paris, as we know it, is the perfect blend of all the cultures, fashion and traditions pervasive in this world.

A Word Of Advice

Paris is a destination that stands unparalleled even with all the advancement in technology in different parts of the world. If you are looking for a romantic destination, a tranquil holiday or a respite from tedious work, there is only one panacea and that is Paris.

Paris is the capital of fashion and design trends. For Parisians fashion and design is like a ‘walk in the park’, thus making Paris the reigning centre for trend-setting fashions. Making a list of shopping areas and boutiques in Paris is no easy task because all centres are almost equal in popularity. Shopping is one of the main reasons for Paris to draw millions of visitors every year, and given below are some the leading shopping districts and shops.

1) Place de lopper & Boulevard Hausmann

These are two popular streets in Paris which hosts massively large departmental stores like Printemps and Galeries Lafayette. Like most popular stores they too feature designer collections, gourmet foods, household goods, jewellery, hardware and much more. The Printemps Department store also boasts of a large rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Paris. Visitors choose this shopping area as anything they desire is available here. Boulevard Hausmann is about 2.5 kilometres and is one of the tree-lined boulevards in Paris.

2) Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore

This is relatively a narrow street when compared to the rest in Paris. However, it is considered to be one of the most fashionable streets in the world because it hosts practically every single major global fashion house. It has a serious of high fashion stores and other exclusive establishments. Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honore is an extension of Rue Saint-Honore. On this street at number 55 is the Elysee Palace which houses the President of the Republic.

3) Mistigriff

Mistigriff is located on Rue St Charles is a store that might have a ‘budget-style’ look, but sells genuine clothes at attractive discounts. Women’s apparel and accessories are available for a very small price. You will need to spend some time in this store to find a Couture garment from a famous label. Mistigriff is listed as one of the popular shopping stores in Paris.

4) Shoes at Andre

Andre is a major French shoe brand and there are many shops in Paris and France. Visitors will find very trendy shoes at reasonable prices here, and they also offer limited edition shoes in collaboration with young and talented designers. Each season Andre takes pride to invite hot fashion designers like Katherine Pradeau and Bali Barret to create exclusive shoe and handbag collections.

5) Cosmetics at Viseart

Viseart recently opened their make-up bar on Rue Charlot, 3rd Metro Republique and is the latest tip for good-value and quality cosmetics. This store is well-known within the fashion and film-world. The assistants are professionals who will help you to test and choose your product. They will also give you a 45-minute makeover by appointment.

6) Saint-Ouen Flea Market

This is one of the famous flea markets in Paris officially known as Les Puces de Saint-Ouen but known to everyone as Les Puces (The Fleas). The Flea Market is located in a city close to Paris and is about six hectares in extent. It is open on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays and is estimated to welcome over 70,000 visitors every week. It has over 2000 shopping selling almost everything and is one of Paris’ most famous shopping venues.

7) Avenue des Champs-Elysees

This is the most prestigious avenue in Paris, France and is a very famous tourist destination. There are cinemas, cafes and luxury speciality shops located amidst clipped horse-chestnut trees. It is one of the most famous streets universally as well and is the most expensive strip of real estate in Europe. It is also known as “The most beautiful avenue in the world”.

Avenue Montaigne

Originally this street was called Allee des Veuves (widow’s alley) because women who were in mourning gathered here, but the street has changed since the early days of the 18th century. Avenue Montaigne now boasts of many stores specialising in high fashion, such as Dior, Chanel, Valentino and Ralph Lauren. Jewellers such as Bulgari are found on this street as well.

9) Les Helles

Les Helles is one of the most important shopping centres in Paris. It is named after the large central wholesale marketplace which was demolished in 1971 and is now replaced with an underground modern shopping precinct. This area contains sculptures, fountains, museums etc and is very popular amongst visitors.

10) Rue d’Alesia

Rue d’Alesia is another major street in the south of Paris. It is the best place to find shops selling last season’s fashions at a discount. This street is frequented by visitors who are keen on bargain deals for clothing.

Eurostar is a brand name in fast rail travel from London to Paris. With the introduction of this high speed train, the number of passenger travelling by train have increased manifold giving tough competition to other travel modes such as flights and ferries; though it is early to say that Euro train/rail has captured the London-Paris travel markets but it has made a sent in the other modes of travel.

Speed of the Eurostar undoubtedly is the key to its success in Europe region. It saves times and time is money these days. The journey time is 2 hours 15mintues to reach Paris the heart of France from London. Flight time is almost same, but one saves times in check-in and check out at airports.

The other reason for its success is its cheap fares. Eurostar fares costs from London to Paris is only £69 for return tickets. The other destinations are London to Brussels and London to Lille, where the fare prices are £69 and £55 respectively. Normal flight fares for these routes are £75 to £80 which is comparatively cheaper.

Further one can avail special offers, which can save lot of money on ticket price viz (i) travelling in a group (ii) booking tickets 2-4 months in advance and (iii) if you are a senior citizen.

Moreover Eurostar Premium class tickets are cheaper than Air tickets with amazing facilities that one may not get on flight. If one is regular customer then price of ticket can be reduced by the loyalty programme.

Plan a Vacation in Paris, France

Bonjour! Do you want to travel to Paris, France but would have to make it a solo trip? It can be intimidating but don’t let fear keep you from having the time of your life. With proper planning and common sense you can have a fun and safe trip.

The basic travel requirements are plane ticket, passport, airport shuttle and hotel accommodations. There are many airlines that fly to Charles De Gaulle airport. I recommend that one for your first trip. There are other airports in the countryside but you will have to take a bus into Paris. Check the major airlines and travel sites for the ticket prices. You will also need a passport that does not expire within the next 6 months. When you arrive at the airport you can choose a taxi, train, or shuttle bus to your hotel. There are many hotels or apartments to choose from. I will discuss that later.

Those are the basics! There are many great European websites that you can research and compare for prices in your budget.

Where to stay in Paris? For the purpose of this essay I’m going to tell you about my favorite place to stay. I prefer the Latin Quarter near Notre Dame. The reason is because in the evening there is street entertainment and lots of “people watching”. It’s very safe and I don’t have to get on the metro to go back home late at night. I have observed plenty of police patrols in the Latin Quarter. I feel very safe. I found a lovely studio apartment for my three week stay. I preferred this option to a hotel because I had a small kitchen and balcony.

What to see! What to do! For your first trip to Paris there are a few “must do” places to see. Take the “hop on hop off” bus. I have done this tour in the major European cities and I find it to be an excellent orientation. I usually go around two or three times just to learn my way around.

The Eiffel Tower is Paris! You can now get tickets to go up the elevator for a specific time slot. No more waiting in line! Be sure to bring a picnic lunch to just “hang out” on the lawn there. At night they will light up the Eiffel tower in sparkles. Check the website for times. The next stop is the world famous Louvre museum and Musee d’Orsay. It is closed on Tuesdays so be sure to plan accordingly. It would take a lifetime to see everything in those two places. Just wander around and see the highlights: Mona Lisa and Monet.

My favorite gardens are Rodin, Monceau and Luxembourg. At the Rodin museum I sat by the rose garden that surrounds “The Thinker” statue for a long time. It takes that long to really get what the artist’s intent. The Luxembourg garden is just delightfully Parisian. You will find people lounging around or playing boules. Check out the cafes and shops nearby. Parc Monceau is a bit more local. The gardens are impeccable.

To be in Paris, you must “people watch” at a cafe. Just pick one on a busy street corner. In Paris they enjoy life. They don’t rush it. Your waiter will not be hovering over you to clear the table fast. Enjoy a glass or two or wine and maybe dessert. Gratituity is usually included in the bill

French food… I have many fond memories of delicious eatables. In the Latin Quarter there are “take aways”, cafes and restaurants from around the world. Personally I skip Starbucks and McDonalds in Paris…. I will list a couple of my favorite places here but be sure to explore and find some of your own. The cafe at the Tuileries gardens by the Louvre is my favorite. I like it because its located close to the flower gardens.( Be sure to order a chafe of water instead of bottle water whenever you eat out. That will save you a few dollars. ) Up at Montmartre, there are several cafes by the artists square that I like and I haven’t really found a chocolate croissant that I didn’t like…

If you have more time, I suggest a day in Montmartre and Rue Clur area. Montmartre is the hilltop area that overlooks Paris. It was once an artists colony because of the cheap rents. Today it still has many budding artists gallerie’s, shops, and a fantastic view of the city and the Eiffel Tower. By the Eiffel tower, visit an area called Rue Clur. It’s a pedestrian only street filled with everything Parisian. I found a cute chocolate shop for gifts to bring back home… the ones I didn’t eat anyway. And a paper shop with postcards and neat souvenirs.

Do you want to know the real secret for solo travel around Europe? You don’t have to know the language just be nice. Be courteous. And you’ll have the time of your life. Anyone can travel solo to Paris and have a safe time. Just don’t go down dark alley ways. Stay with the crowds and pick an apartment in the historical areas of Paris. You will have a fantastic time! Be sure to email me and let me know about your trip.
Merci, Tricia

Paris as one of the most wanted places in the world can get very crowded. There is a very high number of tourists who visit the city every year. To enjoy your vacation in there, as much as possible you want to avoid bumping with many tourists.

Let’s talk about the seasons in Paris for you decide when to go there. Knowing them will give you ideas of the things that you can enjoy every season.

• Spring: This season is best for first-timers. You will enjoy the sight of lush horse chestnut trees and the blossoming flowers in many parks around the city. It will be easier to walk along the streets because they are not crowded with tourists. Take a stroll at Champs Elysees. You might also want to have fun playing tennis at the French Open. The problem during this season is the weather. It’s so unpredictable. One day it’s sunny, the next morning, it’s rainy, windy, and cold. Spring stretches from March to May.

• Summer: During summer Paris is very crowded with tourists. Hotel rates are pricey and expect long lines. But the good thing is there are many well- planned activities made by the officials in the city. These activities are designed to make the visit of tourists to be exciting and memorable. The weather is fairly hot. It stretches from June to August.

• Fall: The weather is mild and dry. There’s no huge crowd. You’ll see more Parisians who just arrived from summer getaways. You can also enjoy lower prices.

• Winter: The weather can get really cold. You cannot see the real beauty of the city during this time of the year. But you can enjoy winter food and drinks like vin cahud and cassoulet. The prices are at their lowest so you can save big.

If you have made up your mind, then pack your things and get ready. Enjoy your trip to Paris!

Paris is called the City of Lights, and if you like art, fashion, food and the other fine things in life, you will find this city illuminating. In addition to having some of the world’s most elegant boulevards and exceptional museums, Paris is the epicenter of France. It’s the capital city and home to more than 2 million people.

Several Paris sights are so famous that they fall into the “cannot miss” category. The first that comes to mind is the Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most recognized icons. The tower is open from early morning to late night, but the lines during most of the day are hours long so you might want to arrive early. The Louvre is another acclaimed attraction and houses a mammoth array of artwork. It is probably best known for the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo but also features other works by Da Vinci, and masterpieces by Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Reubens and others. This former palace also contains breathtaking medieval jewels as well as Greco-Roman, Egyptian and Islamic art collections.

The gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame is located on the Ile de la Cite, a small island in the middle of the Seine River, which splits the city in half. Completed in 1345, Notre Dame is a colossal structure, 420-feet long with two 226-foot towers. The spire, which reaches 295 feet, was added in the 1800’s. The intricate facade features detailed craftsmanship that no longer exists in architecture. The elaborately decorated portals depict religious scenes, and 28 statues of the kings of Israel stand just above.

The mighty Arc de Triomphe crowns the famous boulevard, the Champs-Elysee, and is at the center of a star-shaped configuration of 12 radiating avenues. Napoleon had the Arc commissioned to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. Today the Arc de Triomphe both celebrates the victories of the French army and memorializes soldiers who sacrificed their lives. Since 1920, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (from World War 1) has been sheltered underneath the arch. Inside the arch, a small museum chronicles its history. Roof access, included with the price of admission, offers spectacular vistas of Paris and a mesmerizing look at the traffic converging at the base.

Centre Pompidou’s unconventional architecture has stirred up controversy since the building’s construction almost 40 years ago. But it’s the third most-visited Paris attraction, with 5.5 million guests each year. The Centre contains a terrific collection of modern art, and also a huge reference library, a cinema, children’s activities, a music institute and performance hall. Non-stop activity happens outside are well, with lots of people and street theater.

What was once the Gare d’Orsay train station, built for the 1900 World’s Fair, is now Musee d’Orsay, and houses a large collection of art treasures from 1848-1914. The museum features pieces from Edouard Manet, Monet, Renoir, Vincent van Gogh and other Impressionalist artists.

This anniversary you want to gift your partner something different. You are running out of ideas and have tried all option. Still, you are indecisive as what to do. If you are looking for that something special and unique gift, a trip to the most romantic city, Paris, can be that perfect gift you have been looking for.

You may think why Paris? Why not Paris? Paris is often referred to as the most romantic city in the world. It is immensely popular among couples, lovers and honeymooners. The romantic city welcomes everyone with open arms. Not only are Parisian romantic, even you will find that accommodations and Paris romantic hotels exudes romance as these romantic hotels are tailor made to give an ambience of intimacy and romance.

Paris offers numerous romantic hotels. Choose the best romantic hotel and make your anniversary a special one to cherish for the rest of your life. You can choose your ideal Paris romantic hotel according to your preference. Some of the romantic hotels are listed below:

•    Hotel du Jeu de Paume

If you want to stroll hand-in-hand with your partner, leisurely dine and kiss while overlooking the Seine River, Hotel de Jeu de Paume is the ideal place for you. Formerly a royal tennis court, this four-star hotel has perfect location, in the center of the city in the heart of the charming Ile Saint Louis neighborhood. The architecture of the hotel is marvelous with interiors featuring timbered beams. What more you can get fabulous views on the open indoor courtyard provided by the glass elevator.

•    Chateau de Montvillargenne

Make your anniversary cherishable in a stunning castle of 1900. This hotel is the epitome of romance featuring a whirlpool tub in every finely appointed non-smoking room, an indoor pool, a sauna and three golf courses within just five minutes of the chateau. From the Chantilly rail station it is located a mile and 20 miles from the city.

•    L’Hotel

This can be your ideal romantic hotel as the atmosphere is very intimate and inviting. You can spend your most intimate moments in this quaint, boutique style hotel nearby cafes as you gaze into your partner’s love struck eyes. Honeymooners will appreciate the thermal baths right inside the hotel. You will simply love the themed rooms which are marvelous and luxurious. Situated in the vibrant and artistic Left Bank St. Germain de Pres neighborhood, it boasted of formerly seeing guests like Oscar Wilde and other authors.

•    Hotel de Banville

Stay in Hotel de Banvlle and have the privilege to view the Eiffel Tower from some of the rooms featuring balconies. If love quietness, then this lovely and charming small hotel in the quiet 17th arrondissement is the perfect gateway for romance. Feel indulgent in the turndown service, robes and slippers. The decor and style of each room is unique.

•    Hotel Britannique

Your limited budget should not come on the way of your romance. Hotel Britannique is a cheap hotel in one of the central locations in all of Paris, in the first arrondissement and a block away from the Seine. The rooms are small, but just perfect for both of you.

•    Hotel Claridge Bellman

Hotel Claridge Bellman is the ultimate place to experience true French joie de vivre. Located near the Champs Elysees, the Claridge is a lovely 42-room small hotel. You can feel yesteryear Paris in the beautiful decor. You can spend some precious intimate moments at the Claridge Honesty Bar as you serve yourself. Guests have the privilege to choose any period-decorated room.

•    Hotel Saint James & Albany

You and your partner can take a romantic stroll near the Tulieres Garden which is situated near this former residence of a Duke. Built in the 1600s, this hotel exudes class and boasts of spa services, including an indoor pool and massages. Couples of honeymooners can indulge themselves in the hotel restaurant which is simply great.

•    Hotel Lutetia

Hotel Lutetia is ideally located in the Left Bank. Enjoy your stay in this art deco hotel as you and your partner spend some unforgettable moments here. The hotel speaks of Left Bank style and ambience is intimate and romantic. The hotel has large rooms.

•    Duquesne Eiffel Hotel

Take the opportunity to stay near one of the major symbols of romance, the Eiffel Tower. This fine intimate hotel is situated in a renovated 18th century townhouse and is just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. Get yourself a room with a view of the Eiffel Tower.

•    Hotel Vernet

A stay at Hotel Vernet near the Arc de Triomphe and just off the Champs Elysees can make your anniversary or honeymoon truly splendid. Indulge and relax in the spa services, including a pool, sauna and Turkish bath at no extra cost. It is located within walking distance.

Paris romantic hotels will compel you to come here again and again. Be early bird and book your ideal Paris romantic hotel.