Top Menu

Tag Archives | paris

Elegant and Romantic Vacation Destinations

Paris romance Elegant and Romantic Vacation Destinations

As the weather warms up across much of the Northern Hemisphere, flowers begin to bloom and pants quickly turn into shorts and skirts. Spring is in the air and, as always, the warm weather brings up warm feelings and romantic outdoor activities.

But sometimes couples simply want to get away from jobs, kids and life in general. Thankfully, there are hundreds of amazing getaways to experience and the following list are some of the most elegant and romantic vacation destinations in the world.

Paris

Often called the City of Love, Paris is the capital city of France. From its distinctive Eiffel Tower, the Cathedral of Notre Dame and even the artists lining the cobblestone walkways of Montmarte, Paris has certainly earned its reputation for romantics worldwide. Couples can spend entire weeks strolling through the tree lined walkways of the city, stopping into local bakeries to sample the day’s treats and even throwing a picnic with wine at the base of that tall tower. Luxury hotels that cater to romantic vacations are a mainstay in every section of the massive city, making it one of the most elegant destinations in the world.

Dubai

Dubai is one of the largest cities in the United Arab Emirates and is an absolute vacation destination. Located right off of the Persian Gulf, the weather in Dubai is hot and pleasant much of the year. There are plenty of water based activities like surfing and diving to enjoy, not to mention the possibility of spending a day getting a massage on a beautiful luxury beach. Spas in Dubai are world renowned for the luxurious amenities and high class treatments. Many are located on the region’s beautiful beaches, or in incredibly tall skyscrapers with amazing views. Whatever you choose to do, Dubai is one of the best-kept secrets in world travel.

Hawaii

Hawaii is a string of tranquil islands located in the Pacific Ocean. Most popular with Asian and American tourists, Hawaii has something for everyone, especially romantics. From world-class surfing to mountain biking down a mountain to romantic yoga retreats, Hawaii’s five distinct islands are visited for a reason. Adventurous couples can even take a helicopter ride to experience the sunset over the big, and very active, volcano on the Big Island. Still, Kauai may be the most romantic of all the islands. It is the most secluded island and only has a population of under 100,000. Seclusion, untouched beaches with gentle waves and the sound of the rain forest are all a happy couple needs to enjoy an elegant time on the islands of Hawaii.

5 Romantic Destinations For Memorable Trips

Luxembourg Garden 5 Romantic Destinations For Memorable Trips

Luxembourg garden, Paris. CC Image by Bonnaf (Flickr).

By PRIYANKA IYER

The previous day I saw this old lady in a beautiful gown with her better half enjoying a ball. They seemed like they were hitting 60 or something. Love was in the air and it made me think that “when it comes to romance, what’s age got to do with it?”

Romance falls by the wayside when kids, bills, work and other real life stresses intrude. When was the last time you and your partner felt that love alive, felt that true romance? Hard to remember, isn’t it? Here are a few romantic destinations, where you can make your romantic life fall back in place.

Paris

“As long as you haven’t been kissed during any of those rainy Parisian afternoons, you haven’t been kissed at all” goes a saying by a very famous writer. When it comes to romantic spots of the world, Paris tops the list without doubt. The question is from where to start exploring. Everyone knows about the Eiffel Tower but there are more ways to live your romantic fairytale. The Notre Dame and Arc de Triomphe both offer stunning views of the city.

If you want to live like royalty, reserve a stay at George V. Spend the day in one of Paris’ many gardens for a romantic setting. As you’re in a world class city for jazz, hit any jazz club, sip a cocktail and listen to the sounds of Paris.

New York City

The city of love and romance has no shortage of romantic sights and memorable experiences. Here are three popular places to consider:

·         Battery Park:  Leaving all the noises behind in the city, Battery Park has been serving New York City for 200 years now, even before the Statue of Liberty existed. This place not only gives you the view of the past but also presents a great view of the Statue of Liberty. Walk along the beautiful gardens and enjoy the water front.

·         Broadway: This theatre has always been the favorite destination for lovers.

·         HudsonInstead of crowded ferry rides, sail river Hudson through a cruise. By this means you can view Manhattan, Battery Park, New York harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

The Maldives

If you are planning for a trip where it’s just you, your loved one and incredible surroundings, Maldives is no mistake. With blue waters, coral islands and fabulous weather throughout the year, it is a magical place to relax with your partner. There may not be much to see beyond the sparkling golden sands, beautiful sunsets and dazzling waters, but what else would you really need?

Florida

Whether it’s outdoor activities, a spa day, sunsets by the beach, or clubbing all night, a Florida vacation easily conveys romance. From Florida towards the southernmost point in the continent, you’ll find romantic destinations all the way, whereof some of the most famous include Disney’s grand Floridian resort, St. George Island, Amelia Island plantation resort and Southernmost Hotel Collection, Key West.

Hawaii

Maui is one of Hawaii’s most popular islands, especially with vacationing couples. Ignite the romance with an evening walk along the beach, topped with gorgeous views of the Maui sunset. A quite sunset at Hanalei beach can be a perfect evening for any romantically inclined couple.

Priyanka Iyer is a content writer associated with one-visa.com. She is an avid reader who likes to travel and study the work and business cultures of different places.

1

The Rodin Museum: A Tranquil Site in Paris

Rodin Museum The Rodin Museum: A Tranquil Site in Paris

The Musée Rodin and its gardens.

By ALEIX GWILLIAM

We’re not discovering the wheel when we say that Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. An also well known fact is that Paris is one of the biggest cities in Europe, and it can get a bit hectic. When we go and stay in Paris apartments we may have a list of museums to visit, like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, but seeing such a dense artistic offer can tire us from being on our feet and then walking out onto busy streets. If we need a break to relax but we don’t want to waste precious time in the City of Light, there’s a sometimes overlooked place that can give us the respite we so badly need.

The Musée Rodin is located in the district of Saint-Germain-des-Près, at Hôtel Biron, an old 18th century hotel on the crossroads of rue de Varennes and Boulevard des Invalides. The beautiful site is the home to some of the most valuable sculptures in the history of art, those thought out by Auguste Rodin (1840-1917), as well as works by his mistress Camille Claudel (1864–1943). The great thing about this museum is that not all works are exhibited indoors; many sculptures are placed in the green gardens, perfect for a walk to admire the art whilst relaxing from the city. The gardens and the museum are both of equal beauty; they compliment each other to perfection.

Le Penseur The Rodin Museum: A Tranquil Site in Paris

Le Penseur (The Thinker).

Auguste Rodin is considered the father of modern sculpture. He created human figures in clay, which weren’t of a decorative nature, like most of those at the time, but themes from mythology and allegory, causing a huge controversy in the art scene of Paris. However, thanks to the sculptures exhibited in the 1900 Universal Exhibition, Rodin became a world-famous artist and his legacy has lived on until today.

The location of the hotel-museum is also unique, as it’s surrounded by tranquil gardens with trees, rose gardens, ponds, greenery and birds singing as a soundtrack. This is an oasis in the middle of the city and an ideal place to go with your partner for a romantic stroll.

When you rent apartments in Paris, visit this beautiful spot of art, culture and relaxation.

For more information on tickets, timetables and how to get there, see the official website of the Musée Rodin: http://www.musee-rodin.fr/

Aleix Gwilliam is a 24-year-old from Barcelona who looks English but thinks like a Catalan. He enjoys travelling, especially on old Czech trains, and trying to start conversations in Hungarian with people at Pecs station, even though his Hungarian is as good as his Bulgarian, in other words, not very good. He’s a trier.

Photo: 1, 2

0

Beyond the Tourist Attractions in France

Belleville Beyond the Tourist Attractions in France

Visit the Paris of the locals for a new perspective.

By LAUREN BECK

From the United Kingdom, France is such an easy destination to reach. Many get a plane or a cheap ferry over the English Channel when they start off their backpacking adventures across Europe. Once you arrive in France you have plenty of things to choose from, which way will your route take you? If you plan to visit France and then move onto other countries, why not discover the more traditional sides to France, which are often missed by tourists.

Monet Beyond the Tourist Attractions in France

Of course, many of us will visit Paris first with good reason. Paris is an excellent cultural destination with food, art, history and fashion that will please everyony; however, there are still many overlooked places in Paris you can visit. For the art lovers, after visiting the Louvre there is more art to see at Musée Marmottan-Monet. Some of Monet’s most important art is housed in this museum tucked away behind a park in West Paris clear of the hustle and bustle of the city. The painting Impression, Sunrise, one of Monet’s most famous pieces which was stolen in 1985 and found by police in 1990, can be admired at the museum.

Normandy is often visited by tourists thanks to its historical significance, but beyond this there is a traditional, rural Normandy with hidden depths and a beautiful countryside. The quiet beaches cover 370 miles of coast line and are much quieter than the tourist beaches, perfect if you wish to relax or get artistic yourself with some photography. Normandy is responsible for producing some of France’s most famous cheeses such as Pont L’Eveque, Boursin and Camembert, and once you have tasted the finest authentic cheese minutes from where it has been made there will be no going back to cheap supermarket blocks.

Pristine Gourmet Beyond the Tourist Attractions in France

Pristine Gourmet.

When it comes to drinks France is more often than not associated with fine wines and vineyards, less so with cider and other apple-based drinks such as apple brandy. The orchards of Normandy are a major producer of French cider. Along with the cheese, you can see where and how cider and other apple-based treats are made by following the ‘Cider Route’. Follow the sign posts starting from Cambremer, which will take approximately two days depending on how often and how long you wish to stop on the way.

For a true sense of France’s culture, spend a few days in the more rural areas, take in the architecture and quiet beaches, and try some authentic fresh, French food from the many village and farmers markets.

Lauren Beck loves all things French and blogs at http://www.ferryfrance.org.uk/

Photo credits: 1, 2, 3

3

A City Girl’s Go-Get-’em Guide: 5 European Cities, 5 Places to Experience

Notting Hill A City Girls Go Get em Guide: 5 European Cities, 5 Places to Experience

Portobello Road, Notting Hill.

London: Portobello Road (& the Saturday market)

Rent an apartment for a weekend through somewhere like CityBaseApartments.com, who offer London apartments short stays and long stays alike. Nestled in West London’s rather salubrious Notting Hill area, Portobello road is a haven for treasure seekers and vintage lovers. Sauntering from the tube past Notting Hill’s white and decidedly summery-looking Georgian townhouses to Portobello Road is something to behold in itself – but as soon as you reach Portobello road, you’ll know about it. Curiosity shops of all shapes, sizes and persuasions offer Aladdin’s-Cave-style experiences, perfect for those with a taste for anything artistic, eccentric or outrageous.

Copenhagen: Christiania

Europe’s most famous 850-strong squat, Christiania is located in Copenhagen’s Christianahavn and is probably most famous for its lawlessness when it comes to cannabis. However – don’t be put off by this, because that part of Christiania can be ignored as easily as it can be found. Whatever season you visit, this place really is a spectacle worth visiting. From quaint little hand-build eco homes to a vegan café and an all-female iron monger workshop, Christiania offers plenty to marvel at. And if you manage to walk from the main entrance all the way through, there’s an incredible grotto-style café to greet you on the other side.

Badeschiff A City Girls Go Get em Guide: 5 European Cities, 5 Places to Experience

Badeschiff, Berlin.

Berlin: Badeschiff
Otherwise known as the ‘Bathing Ship’, Badeschiff sits atop the Spree River and is hailed as one of the best party places in Berlin. This boat boasts no less than a floating pool, an open-air bar and a beach-style sunbathing area and offers massages, fitness tuition, concerts and nightclub parties. The place attracts crowds even in the winter when they simply install a couple of saunas and continue the party by covering the vessel with a big white membrane.

Barcelona: El Born

If you’ve been to Spain before, then you’ll know it’s relaxed – and the Spanish love nothing more than late nights, parties and fantastic food. Head to Barcelona’s new cultural quarter, El Born (or if you want to sound more with it, it’s just ‘Born’). Begin your evening around 10pm at one of Barcelona’s best wine bars, La Vinya del Senyor, followed by Cuines Santa-Caterina for a nice, sharable and light tapas dinner before midnight. Be careful not to eat too much though – there’s plenty of dancing to be done at the Woman Caballero nightclub. But don’t go over August – most of the city shuts for the month.

Paris: Cookery Course

Paris Market A City Girls Go Get em Guide: 5 European Cities, 5 Places to Experience

Food market, Paris.

A non-residential cookery course, this can easily be squeezed into your girly weekend perfectly – although it’s not cheap. Cordon Bleu chef and tour guide, Paule Caillat, will guide you and your friends around some of Paris’ very best markets, herb and truffle shops, among other places, and – the Pièce de résistance – the kitchens at the prestigious Hotel de Crillo, before you head back to cook something scintillating.

Photo: 1, 2, 3

2

5 Destinations For Family Fun

Universal Studios 5 Destinations For Family Fun

Universal Studios. CC Image by gepiblu (Flickr).

By NISHA BASHIR

Trying to keep everyone happy on a family holiday is no mean feat. However, there are many global locations in which you can do just that, although choosing between them can seem a difficult task whether they are holiday parks or somewhere different. Here are a few of the best options when you’re trying to book some time away from home and have people of all ages to look after.

Orlando, Florida, United States

Orlando is home to not one but many of the planet’s premier destinations for family fun. Walt Disney World is of course one of the most exciting places to visit for both kids and adults, but in the case of this amazing location it’s only the beginning. Sea World is another magnificent theme park worth the trip in itself, as are the incredible Universal Studios and Discovery Cove. It may be a cliché, but things really are done on a different scale here, making for an unforgettable experience for everyone from eight to eighty and beyond.

London, United Kingdom

London is one of the world’s great cities, with history and culture in ample supply. The city has long been a favourite choice for families looking to take a break from both UK and worldwide locations. From Madame Tussauds to the West End, via the Science Museum and the National Gallery, you’d need to spend a long time here to run out of places to visit. London’s gorgeous and expansive family holiday parks also make it the perfect environment on a summer’s day, and with plenty of restaurants catering to the entire family you’re well taken care of into the evenings too.

Canary Islands

The Canaries are understandably a popular choice for people young and old. Regardless of if you visit Gran Canaria, Tenerife or Lanzarote you’re pretty much guaranteed hot weather, as you’re not far from the northern reaches of Africa. Sun and sand are available in plentiful supply, whether you want to get active or chill out. A unique flavour of Spanish culture also prevails here, so the food and drink are excellent. The Canary Islands are a great choice for all inclusive, top value deals.

New York City, United States

New York City is a place that simply never loses its appeal, whether you’re into the arts, modern history or just want to experience the bright lights and big city thrills. They weren’t joking when they said this is the city that never sleeps, and the excitement simply never stops. New York City represents the full array of American culture in all its incredible diversity, a unique and unforgettable pleasure.

Paris, France

One of the world’s most beautiful places, the city of Paris is a truly beguiling one. With an inexhaustible supply of galleries and museums, the city’s buildings are themselves a breathtaking sight. The River provides the backdrop for much in the way of family fun, with a boat trip either by day or night surely one of the loveliest ways to see the sights. For eating out, Paris is hard to beat, with more world cuisines represented than you could ever want.

Nisha Bashir works as the editor for Holiday365 and has been representing the business for the last two years now. Holiday365 offers some great deals in the UK, why not pay them a visit to see the latest deals, holiday365.co.uk.

1

Paris’ Hidden Treasures

Before you visit the capital of France, book one of the many Paris apartments for your holiday.

By NISHA BASHIR

So you would like to go somewhere different and experience new sights and new experiences. Why not try Pari! You wouldn’t have thought it, but it has so much more to offer than the usual beauties. So, let’s have a deeper look into the heart of Paris to see its hidden treasures.

Wallace Fountains

fountain wallace Paris’ Hidden Treasures

Even though these fountains are known worldwide, not many people consider them as a must-see sight when in Paris. These public drinking fountains were designed by Charles-Auguste Lebourg and named after Richard Wallace who financed the fountain. He was a man devoted to his love of Paris.

During the siege, Wallace founded a hospital where he welcomed the injured and distributed supplies, so he was seen as a great man, and the fountain is a true representation of Wallace. It represents Wallace’s helping hand and also his passion to make Paris beautiful. After understanding the meaning behind this fountain, it’s definitely something worth seeing.

Saint-Jacques Tower

saint jacques tower Paris’ Hidden Treasures

If you love gothic style buildings this is truly a great building to see. La Tour Saint-Jacques is a 16th-century gothic-style tower and this is all that remains from the church église Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie. The church was originally built when King Francis I was King and it welcomed pilgrims who set out on the road that led to Tours. The beautiful decoration top and the stunning stained glass is a good representation of the kind of money patrons had and it’s also a great symbol of what was once there.

Saint-Paul – Saint-Louis

saint paul saint louis Paris’ Hidden Treasures

This is one of the oldest examples of Jesuit architecture in Paris. You will see great classical features such as the Corinthian pillars and beautiful heavy ornamentation. And the church is known for its 195 foot dome. For the sheer beauty of the building this is a great attraction to see in France.

Parc Monceau

parc monceau Paris’ Hidden Treasures

If you’re looking to see something unique and romantic in Paris, why not visit the Parc Monceau. This park is actually quite different from other parks in France, due to its English style, informal layout and curved walk ways as well as randomly placed statues around the park that would make you believe you were visiting England.

So, there you go, some great off-the-beaten track places to visit in Paris. This is how you get to see the real Pari!

Nisha Bashir works as the editor for Holiday365 and has represented the business for the last two years. Holiday365 offers some great deals in the UK, why not visit the website to see what they have to offer http://www.holiday365.co.uk.

Photo credits: 1, 2, 3, 4

2

Budget Travel Accommodation: In Praise of Cheap Hotels and Hostels

florence Budget Travel Accommodation: In Praise of Cheap Hotels and Hostels

Students enjoying the rooftop terrace at a hostel in Florence.

By ISABEL CLIFT

Many people think you have to sacrifice comfort and quality if you want to stay in a cheaper hotel when you travel. There are some bad apples, it’s true – but there are also plenty of budget accommodation options out there that give you a great experience and charge you less for it.

What budget accommodation is right for you?

Hostels

breakfast Budget Travel Accommodation: In Praise of Cheap Hotels and Hostels

Free breakfast is included.

If you’re travelling with a big group of friends, hostels are great for saving money on group accommodation – they also have a fun and friendly atmosphere, and you’re likely to make new friends just by hanging out in the common area. Hostels have cheaper rates because they offer non-private dorm accommodation, and bathrooms are shared. Towels, bedding, Wi-Fi and private lockers are often free, but it’s down to the individual hostel whether food is offered – however, lots of them have communal kitchens, so you can make your own meals on the cheap. If you travel solo, staying in hostels is a great way to meet other travellers on the road.

Cheap Hotels

If you want to stay in a private room with an en suite bathroom, but don’t want to pay the high rates charged by four- and five-star hotels, go for the cheaper option. Cheap hotels keep their rates low by offering a more stream-lined range of facilities: while a five-star hotel might have a business centre, spa, swimming pool and full-service restaurant, a cheap hotel might offer just one or two of these things. Cheap hotels give you extras like free Wi-Fi and breakfasts, and you will still get a great service. They’re a good option for families, couples and smaller groups of friends.

Top Destinations for Budget Accommodation

carnival Budget Travel Accommodation: In Praise of Cheap Hotels and Hostels

Vibrant colours of Notting Hill Carnival.

London

Big, free events in London like the Notting Hill Carnival in August suit groups of friends, so get your London hostel booked well in advance. If you travel to London with your family to take in attractions such as the London Eye, Big Ben and West End shows, go for cheap London hotels for conveniently-located, budget accommodation.

Recommended cheap hotel: The two-star Grapevine Hotel is five minutes’ walk from Victoria tube and rail station. It charges from EUR 39.70 pppn (per person, per night), and has free Wi-Fi, free breakfasts and flat-screen TVs in rooms.

Paris

sacre coeur Budget Travel Accommodation: In Praise of Cheap Hotels and Hostels

Steps of the Sacré Cœur at Montmarte.

Paris is the city of love, so if you’re travelling there for a Valentine’s break on a budget, go for cheap Paris hotels for a private and romantic place to stay. For festivals like Rock en Seine, a Paris hostel makes a great option for a large group of friends – and you’re likely to meet other festival-goers there too.

Recommended cheap hotel: Hotel Audran in Montmartre occupies a lively neighbourhood a short walk from the Sacré Cœur, the bars of Abbesses Street and Pigalle metro stop. The hotel has free Wi-Fi, and rooms start at EUR 68pppn.

New York City

bow bridge Budget Travel Accommodation: In Praise of Cheap Hotels and Hostels

Bow Bridge over The Lake in Central Park.

If you’re planning a shopping trip to New York, look for cheap New York City hotels so you’ve got a secure, private room where you can store all your new goodies! Those travelling in a bigger group for free music festivals like the Central Park summer concerts, or solo-travelling to see stunning New York sights, will find hostel stays ideal.

Recommended cheap hotel: Hotel 31 is found in the heart of Midtown Manhattan between Lexington and Park Avenue. Rooms have cosy, traditional décor and start at EUR £73.81pppn.

The bottom line is, cheap can still mean chic. Whether you’re looking for budget accommodation in major cities like London, New York or Paris, or you’re planning anything from a beach break to a ski trip, browse AnyTrip.com for a great-quality selection of affordable properties for short-term stays.

Isabel Clift is a writer for AnyTrip.com, the travel-booking specialists. She lives in London, and loves to take city-breaks in Europe whenever possible – her favorite cheap destinations for a long weekend are Berlin and Budapest.

Photo credits: 2, 3, 4, 5

7

Travel Through Europe This Spring

A suggested route for a European trip. When you pass through Prague on your trip, consider one the many Prague apartments to rent.

view from eiffel tower Travel Through Europe This Spring

View from the Eiffel Tower.

Europe offers one of the most intense travel experiences in the world, with a diversity of cultures and customs packed into a relatively small geographical area, meaning that visitors can really make the most of a visit of any length to get a real feel for the area.

One of the best ways to approach the planning of a European tour is to take in as many capital cities as possible, as plotting such a route through the continent offers many more exciting experiences along the way.

London

For many travelers, one of the highlights of a European visit will be London. The UK capital has long been an influential city on the global scene, from the swinging sixties when it led the world in fashion and music to the present day as it prepares to host the 2012 Olympic Games.

For this reason, those looking to head to Europe on their travels would benefit to start by finding cheap flights to London and using this as their jumping off point for the rest of their journey. On arrival attractions in London include the London Eye – the biggest “big wheel” in the world – and Westminster Abbey, which will host the Royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Paris

From London it is just a short hop across the channel to France as travelers head for Paris – the City of Light. A world away from its near neighbour, the French capital epitomizes all that many outsiders consider Europe to be with its wonderful wide boulevards and breathtaking architecture. Must see sights include the iconic Eiffel Tower – a structure that has stood as a symbol of the city for more than a century. Other areas to visit include artistic Montmartre, home to the Sacre Coeur cathedral, and world renowned shopping street of the Champs Elysees.

Spain

From Paris, visitors can choose to head south to Spain, where both the capital Madrid and beautiful Barcelona are cities not to be missed, with the opportunity to head for the country’s famous costas for some beach based rest and relaxation.

Central Europe

Alternatively, visit Germany, Switzerland, or Austria, where central European culture begins to make its mark offering an experience that is a world away from the mellow Mediterranean mood of some neighboring nations.

Italy

Heading onward to Italy, visitors can immerse themselves in the remnants of the ancient Roman culture at Rome’s Colosseum, or soak up the country’s history and heritage by viewing some amazing art and architecture. Other Italian cities not to be missed include Venice with its intricate network of canals, and Florence whose renaissance past is still apparent on every street. History buffs should head for the Neapolitan Riviera to combine stunning scenery with the Roman ruins at Pompeii and Herculaneum in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius.

Prague

prague old square Travel Through Europe This SpringA trip to modern Europe is not complete without venturing into the East, with many former communist countries now serving a lively tourist trade. Top of the pops in terms of eastern European capitals is Prague, whose rich history sits alongside a recently emerged cosmopolitan café culture making it a great place to round off a European tour.

Walk the well known Wenceslas Square and head for the Narodni Muzeum (national museum) for an insight into this culturally rich country, or relax al fresco on the Old Town Square, from where a range of exciting trips and tours can be joined, including those to the original Jewish ghetto or the city castles that once housed the kings of Bohemia.

4

Getting Around Paris

metro Getting Around Paris

By REBECCA KELLY

Being the capital and largest city in France, travelling around Paris may seem slightly daunting if you are a first-time visitor. The Paris transport system however is one of the most efficient in the world and finding your way between attractions, hotels and shops is an easy process.

Having arrived at the city and dropped off your luggage, the bright lights of Paris will allure you to explore the city immediately. Here’s the best ways to do so:

Metro System

Undergrounds are not a favourite choice with non-city lovers however the Paris metro system is renowned for being organised and reliable. This simple and economic system is made up of 14 lines, 380 stations, and more than 130 miles of track and is open from 5.00am to 12:30am.

To travel on the Metro, tickets can be bought from any of the stations, tourist offices and some tobacconists.

Buses

A bonus of travelling around Paris on a bus is you can do some sightseeing on your journey whilst absorbing the city’s atmosphere. The bus network operates between 6.30am to 8.30pm with some routes continuing until 12.30am.

All of the bus routes are numbered and maps are easily available. The same ticket can be used for both the metro and for buses.

RER Trains

There are six major rail stations in Paris where trains can be caught to Paris’ suburbs and outwards to other European cities. There are five train lines A through to E that run from 5.30am to 12.30am.

The same metro and bus tickets can be used to ride the trains until the train reaches the outskirts of Paris, supplementary fares are then charged.

Taxis

Unlike other larger cities, it is easier to find a taxi rank than it is to hail a car in the street. The lighting on a taxi roof indicates whether it is busy or not; white is available, orange is not. Travelling by taxi in Paris is a fairly inexpensive way of getting around, make sure however that the meter is operating correctly to avoid having to haggle with the driver to agree a fare.

Boat

A memorable experience of travelling from A to B in Paris is to do so by Batobus on the River Seine. This runs between the Quau de l’Hotel de Ville and the Eiffel Tower and is open between April and October.

Various companies around Paris offer river cruises, however these are much more a sightseeing activity as opposed to getting around the city.

Most major hotels in Paris are located within walking distance of some form of public transport to ensure you are in easy reach of all the top attractions this wonderful city has to offer.

Rebecca Kelly works for Simonseeks.com, the world’s first website to offer comprehensive, up-to-date information and independent advice for travellers across a range of destinations such as the top-rated hotels in Paris and the best restaurants in New York.

4

Powered by WordPress. Designed by Woo Themes