Paris: A City that will Captivate You
Travel & Leisure → Travel Spot
- Author H.a. Brempell
- Published April 15, 2006
- Word count 940
I soaked up the personalities of boutiques as I walked among the streets, I glided along the Seine River on a luxurious dinner cruise, and I almost fainted when I finally saw the Eiffel Tower in person. I fell in love with a city. I fell in love with Paris, France. I have no doubt that you would, too.
Paris in the summer was most enchanting. There is always a
celebration or an event that will perk your interests. From the
three-day Paris Country Fair to the Nuits de Feuto, one of the
largest fireworks spectaculars in the world, these events are sure
to please especially if you like the outdoors. Or, if you prefer the
indoors, with 140 theatres and show venues, there are major
theatrical productions and musicals galore!
What woman could possibly visit Paris without wanting to
experience the joy of shopping? I sure didn't as I roamed among
different neighborhoods to visit boutiques and cafés. Le Marais
district is best to explore many fashion and design boutiques. It's
hard to resist making a purchase of some sort along the way! A
unique café you'll want to check out is Pomze in the Opéra/Grands
Boulevard area, which offers apple-themed cuisine.
I thought the view of some historical landmarks along the Seine
River while on a night-time dinner cruise was stunning! The
Bateaux Parisiens/Seino Vision cruise is unforgettable. I saw the
spectacular night view of Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower (nicknamed
the "guardian of Paris in golden apparel"), the Musée du Louvre
(The Louvre Museum), and more historical landmarks of France.
You absolutely don't want to miss visiting the Eiffel Tower in the
day as well. A 59-foot trek up the tower takes you to the top to
overlook the city of Paris that will leave you breathless!
During the day, the Louvre Museum was just as delightful. As a
former royal palace, it features a large, glass Crystal Pyramid near
the front entrance. The museum itself features paintings and
artifacts of architecture, history, and archeology of France's rich
heritage. The Louvre hosts the famous painting by Leonardo da
Vinci, the Mona Lisa. The palace was first opened to the public
during the French Revolution.
In July you don't want to miss the famous bicycling race, Le Tour
de France (The Tour of France). Even though Lance Armstrong may
not be entering the race again, it is worth experiencing the
national identity and pride of France.
But before you're able to experience Paris to its fullest, I strongly
recommend not leaving home without planning well in advance.
Advanced lodging accommodations are much needed. Booking
travel dates ahead of time and your hotel stay will save you
hours, if not days of stress headaches while trying to plan the
perfect Paris vacation. Since the summer weather in Paris ranges
from fairly cool in the day (lower to mid-70s) all the way up to 95
degrees, plan to bring a variety of apparel to keep cool and warm.
A few light sweaters, jeans, shorts, and cotton shirts would work
best. For the colder evenings (mid- to upper-50s), plan to bring a
coat to keep warm. Other essentials to pack before leaving Paris
include:
-
a digital camera
-
a small bag to carry a water bottle, maps, paper and pen, and
the digital camera
-
comfortable walking shoes
-
a light rain jacket (just in case)
Besides the typical items you should bring with you, an absolute
consideration must be made when planning to travel overseas;
knowing what type of ID you will need while in France is most
important. Only a passport is required for entry into France. For
stays up to 90 days, a visa will not be needed.
Understanding at least some of the "language of love" is most
appreciated by the French. So, taking some beginning French
lessons before you leave for Paris would be useful or simply
finding a good English-French dictionary may work well to start.
Learning some basic phrases helped me around the city or guided
me to someone who spoke English. For example, there were
several friendly question and greeting phrases I used repeatedly
throughout my trip:
-
Hello (good day). --> Bonjour.
-
Good evening. --> Bonsoir.
-
Excuse me, do you speak English? --> Excusez moi, parlez vous
anglais?
-
Where is -? -->Où est -
-
In what direction do I have to go? --> Dans quel sens dois-
je aller?
-
How much is it? --> Combien est-ce?
-
No, I don't understand. --> No, je ne comprends pas.
-
Thank you. --> Merci.
-
Bye. --> Au Revoir
And when you do get to Paris, it's best to do three things to make
your trip most enjoyable. First, knowing that Paris is partitioned by
districts, which are located on the street signs, will make your
travel easier. Second, for a very low price, purchase what's called
a "Paris City Passport" from the Paris Convention and Visitors
Bureau which includes over 45 museum, attraction, excursion, and
shopping discounts and also includes a map of all Paris districts.
Third, knowing a little about all transportation options would be
ideal, usually the Metro bus or taxi are good choices. Knowing
what district your hotel is in also helps. And don't forget to use
your new French skills!
To endure the everlasting spirit of Paris is not difficult. Once I
visited Paris, I never knew such beauty could exist in a thrilling
European adventure like this. I have not left the memories behind
me and I have not forgotten the experience of falling in love with a
city. Paris will continue to fascinate you too, even after you've
said, "au revoir!"
This article was written by H.A. Brempell sponsored by http://www.online-hotel-bookings.co.uk. Online Hotel Bookings sells discounted hotel rooms in Paris as well as over 200 cities throughout the world. Book your hotel room today - online. Reproduct
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