France
September 30th, 2007 at 12:20pm
Under France
The French culture is one that has long been both revered and reviled. Not to be mistaken for any other culture, the French are in a class all of their own. Their beauty and elegance has lasted through countless generations, and will continue for many generations to come. Consider the many masterpieces the French have given to the world. The Louvre, the Eiffel tower, even our own Statue of Liberty; all French works of art. Add to this the fabulous cuisine and music given to us by our French counterparts, and its hard not to admire the French culture for the beautiful thing that it is.
The Art
Above all else, the French culture is known primarily for their art. The Louvre, France’s most famous museum, houses millions of paintings and sculpture from both French artists, as well as artists from across the globe. The Louvre is shaped like a giant pyramid; an innovative design by a French architect, and just one more reason to love the French culture. It is said that to tour the entire Louvre, and to see each and every work of art housed there, would take several months of all-day visits.
The Food
The tastiest part of French culture is, of course, its food. Said to have almost two hundred and fifty different national cheeses, the French take their menu very seriously. In other countries, French food is considered to be a delicacy, and is enjoyed by both royalty and wealthy homes alike. Those of us who are not of elite upbringing may not enjoy French cuisine in our kitchens daily, but French cheeses, wines, and pastries can still be found in almost every grocery store.
The People
French culture has also given the world many historical heroes. Joan of Arc, Napoleon, Claude Monet, Louis Pasteur, and too many more to count. France has provided the world with art, medicine, music, and so much more. Every time you are ill, your cure comes from the genius of a French mind. When you look at beautiful Impressionist art, you are looking at a movement started by a French artist. Heroes, martyrs, saints, poets, musicians, and tyrants; the French culture is rich in history that has affected the entire world.
Whether your interest is in the food, the art, the language, or the history, French culture has something to offer everyone. Visit your local library today to learn more about this marvelous people who have helped shape our world!
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By admin
September 30th, 2007 at 09:03am
Under Travel+ France
Eiffel Tower: “The Eiffel Tower was built in 1887 as the entrance arch to the Exposition Universelle, the World’s Fair. The engineer, Gustave Eiffel, prepared its unique design to enable it to take the high wind velocity at the height of 324 meters even if it allows for a sway of 2-3 inches in high wind. The ‘eyesore’ for the Parisians at the time of its construction is now a monument linked to many historical events and structure that represents France, and more particularly Paris, all over the world.” (Click on title link above to plan your trip to the Eiffel Tower in France.)
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By admin
July 22nd, 2007 at 02:20pm
Under Spain+ France
Little known to many, the area known as Gers lies deep in the south west of France and is part of the Midi-Pyrenees region. It sits just to the west of the university town of Toulouse. It is named after the river Gers which has it’s source in the foothills of the Pyrenees, near Lannemezan.
If you have been looking at property in Spain as well as France, or maybe you have had trouble deciding between Spain or France, then perhaps Gers is the place for you. Due to the proximity of Spain, the strong influence of Spanish culture is evident throughout this area. There have been many waves of Spanish immigrants to this part of south west France, adding colour and variety to the region, and making a truly unique ambience.
Property in Gers tends to reflect this influx of Spanish culture. The rolling countryside is lush and green, and forts and castles adorn the hilltops. This area is only now becoming increasingly popular with foreigners and is still relatively undiscovered.
From the foothills of the Pyrenees, the river Gers flows north and passes through the departments of Hautes-Pyrenees, Tarn-et-Garonne and Gers. The capital city of Auch, is found beside the river Gers. This department covers just over 6,000 square kilometres, and has a total population of around 150,000. Auch is the administrative capital of Gers, one of France’s least bustling and most overlooked areas.
Historically, Gers was part of Gascony. It was one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution in 1790. Interestingly, residents of this area are referred to as ‘Gersois’.
Gers is a part of the historic Armangnac region well known for its predominant commercial activity — the production of fiery world famous brandy. Gers is mainly an agricultural region, producing a variety of cereals, poultry and well known gastronomic specialities including goose pate “fois gras”.
Wild mushrooms are abundant here and their presence has spawned yet another specialist gastronomic industry all of its own, built up around the areas famously prolific wild mushrooms.
Whilst this region officially has it’s own language, a dialect of the “langue d’oc” it is little spoken or known today. The majority of people speak French here, but you will find smatterings who also speak Spanish. For many years throughout history, the people of Gers have offered shelter to pilgrims making their way to Santiago De Compostella in Spain.
The region of Gers is comparatively little known, and therefore property in Gers is usually a very welcome surprise in many ways to most Europeans. If you are seeking to make your dream of a home in France reality, then check out the property for sale in the Gers area of south west France.
By admin
July 22nd, 2007 at 12:38pm
Under France
Chambery, located in the heart of the French Alps is the once capital of Savoie. It sits just near Lac du Bourget (Bourget Lake), looked upon by the Alps that surround it. Chambery is a city that can be both visited in the winter and summer. In the winter there are a number of ski resorts within easy driving distance. In the summer those same Alps that were skied, become hiking and backpacking trails and campgrounds.
The center of Chambery is the ‘old town’ it includes a Chateau, once the residence of the dukes of Savoie, a 15th century Cathedral and a fine arts museum. There is also a ‘Fontaine des Elephants’ (Elephants Fontaine) built in honor of the Comte de Boigne, who bestowed upon the city much wealth. A large portion of his personal wealth came from India, hence the Elephant Fontaine.
The center of Chambery offers not only tourist attractions but also many shops for buying your favorite French goods. If you are lucky it might be market day and you can buy some fresh local produce. Like so many cities in France Chambery is not only charming, it is also small enough to be walked comfortably. You will be able to see the center without getting sore feet! But if you do have that fear there is a tourist ‘train’ that will take you through the center and let you visit with as little walking as possible.
Chambery makes a good base for exploring the French Alps especially during the winter as it is within easy driving distance of such ski resort towns as Grenoble, Albertville, La Clusaz, Courchevel, Alpe d’Huez, Chamonix and Val d’Isère. In the summer other outdoor activities are possible including hiking and camping. As Chambery is close to three national parks, Parc national de la Vanoise, Parc Naturel Régional de Chartreuse and Parc Naturel Régional du Massif des Bauges. Other close natural attractions include, Lac du Bourget and Lac d’Aiguebelette. Two other popular summer lakes are Annecy Lake, within an hour’s drive and Lake Geneva, two hours’ drive.
Getting to Chambery is easy as it has a modern airport; the official name is Aéroport de Chambéry. The airport code is CMF. At the moment there are a number of ‘no thrills’ airlines like Flybe and Jet2.com that have regular service to Chambery. These ‘no thrills’ airlines fly from selected major European destinations like Amsterdam and Bruxelles along with such UK destinations as, Birmingham, Exeter, Manchester and Southampton.
Chambery can also be accessed by car from the A41 Autoroute Exit 13, Chambery Nord. Chambery is a little over an hour’s drive from Lyon and about a seven hour drive from Paris. Chambery also has train access. If you plan on coming from Paris the best thing to do is take the TGV (high speed train), it only takes about an hour and a half and then transfer to a regional train in Lyon that goes to Chambery.
Chambery can also be used as a base to visit other European cities and countries like Geneva, Switzerland and Turin in Italy. Each are within in a two hour drive.
By admin
July 22nd, 2007 at 12:37pm
Under France
Paris, the city of love and a thousand other clichés, still holds a certain mystic. But no matter how many written words this great city has commanded - however familiar this town may appear - Paris will always remain an enigma, a magnet for millions of visitors from around the world.
Paris carries an enchantment that you cannot always put your finger on. We perceive Parisians as chic and stylish, forever setting the trend.
But there is more to this country than just its capital. France is home to over 60 million people, including many of North African descent.
One of the things that keeps France great is its attention to detail: the back street shop that sells 30 varieties of croissant, the creaseless department store bags to carry home your latest in fashionable attire, the delightful little chocolates that accompany your coffee on one of the street corner cafes.
The French language itself conjures up magic and mystery, adding to the romance of being in an alien land.
The modern France bears aspects of foreign influence. Alongside the chic boutiques and stylish cafes sit far-western heavyweights such as McDonalds. But France will forever remain French. Chic and panache will always prevail.
Provided you can steer clear of the boy racers who treat the roads as racing tracks, France will satisfy even the most ardent explorers.
When visiting France, the first place on most people’s itineraries is Paris, and the fabulous Louvre. Whilst Napoleon endeavoured to conquer Europe, his armies busied themselves collecting the spoils from their defeated hosts.
When the Louvre was built in 1793, these trophies were exhibited in the new museum for the whole of France to witness.
Today the Louvre has been given a modern day makeover. A magnificent glass pyramid embraces the museum making it instantly recognisable around the world.
If you can endure the crowds, some of the world’s most celebrated art can be witnessed. These include ‘Winged Victory’ and the ‘Mona Lisa’ with her legendary smile.
For those wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of France’s busy cities, the town of Chamonix offers the perfect contrast to city life. Located in one of the spectacular valleys of the French Alps, Chamonix offers picture postcard views, dominated by centuries old glaciers and the imposing summit of Mount Blanc.
Just one of the many reasons for France being the world’s number one tourist destination.
By admin
July 22nd, 2007 at 12:36pm
Under France
France and Paris, Paris and France. You’ll have a great time exploring Paris, but you’ll miss places like Bordeaux and St. Tropez if you don’t get out of the city.
Bordeaux
Bordeaux is both a city and the center of the wine region in France. As a city, Bordeaux is surprisingly bereft of things to see. One can find unique statutes, fountains and the like, but there isn’t really a particular location to mark of on your, “I saw that” list. The city is, however, a good place to relax, drink and eat. For relaxation, you can put around this low key town and take in food at the outdoor cafes in the Place de la Comedie. The specialty food of the region are canellas, which are very good. If you’re with the wine and cheese crowd, Bordeaux is going to seem much more exciting. The surrounding region produces wine by the mega cask loads and you can visit locations such as Chateau Mouton-Rothschild to smell and taste the grapes. Moderation is suggested as you want to avoid the grapes of wrath the next morning!
St. Tropez
St. Tropez has gone through roughly three stages in its history. Originally, the town was a little fishing village no different than others dotting the coast of France. At some point, however, it became the place to be for artist who had given up on Paris. No less than the painters Matisse, Signac and Seurat lived and worked in the town. Fortunately or unfortunately, those times have passed. While artist still populate the town, St. Tropez is now the hangout of celebrities and the wealthy. While still a beautiful location, the over the top glitz of St. Tropez is a bit much.
Once you get out of Paris, your options are wide open when it comes to exploring France. Bordeaux is definitely worth a visit while St. Tropez tends to be a take it or leave it destination. I left it.
By admin
July 22nd, 2007 at 12:29pm
Under France
From beaches to the alps, France has a little of something for everyone. In this article, we take a look at Paris and the beach city of Nice.
Paris
It is hard to know where to start when discussing Paris. Take a boat down the Seine River and you will pass Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower and so many other notable spots it is easy to get overwhelmed. The city is simply that dramatic.
Long considered the most glamorous city in Europe, Paris has a little of everything. For the romantic, one can visit the haunts of famous writers, historical sites of just about every nature and the Moulin Rouge.
On the other hand, art lovers can spend weeks visiting the 100 plus museums in the city with, of course, the Louvre being the crown jewel. Personally, I found the Rodin Museum just as interesting, particularly since there was a much smaller crowd.
Perhaps the best way to experience Paris is just to wander around. Yes, take a few days to visit the notable tourist traps…err, destinations. Once you get tired of standing in crowds, walk out of your hotel and just keep on going. You will find little neighborhoods with eccentric characteristics to make you smile. As you plod along, real cafes and gathering places will become apparent. Make sure you visit them as the locals in these neighborhoods are very friendly and funny.
Nice
Nice is a small beach city just to the east of Cannes in the south of France. It is an odd mix of old world charm and beach culture. In and of itself, there is nothing particular about Nice when compared to Cannes with the exception of the prices. They are significantly cheaper and you get pretty much the same thing.
One extremely positive thing about Nice is the launching factor. Nice is close to everything and a natural launching point to go practically anywhere in the general region. You can hop on a train to the east and be in Monaco in 15 minutes. You can take a 20 minute minivan trip inland to learn how to make cheese and soap. Thankfully, this isn’t the same location.
France is a diverse country with a rich history. It can be easy to overdose on the volume of things to see, but you can’t do much worse than just walking out your door and exploring. Remember, those boots were made for walking.
By admin
July 21st, 2007 at 09:49pm
Under France
While it is one of Britain’s closest neighbours, France is also a great choice for a driving holiday with any number of great spots to stop at along the way as you wind your way down from one of the country’s ferry ports towards your final goal.
A fantastic final destination for a driving holiday is the Loire Valley. Situated in the heart of the country, the Loire Valley is known as the Garden of France and has all the beautiful scenery you would expect from a holiday that takes in a huge piece of French countryside.
A journey by car from Dover in the UK to the heart of the Loire Valley is approximately 350 miles. After a short ferry crossing to Calais, travelling through Abbeyville and Rouen, towards Le Mans, you finally arrive in Angers. Some 30 miles later, you arrive in Loire, which is arguably when the real fun driving can begin.
One thing the Loire Valley has plenty of is history, spanning many centuries and any number of important periods in the country’s illustrious and sometimes glamorous past. Encompassing the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, as well as more recent 19th-century history, France’s royal past is also well represented in the Loire Valley.
The Loire Valley is home to a number of famous French castles and chateaux that are great places to visit during any trip to the area. The central part of the valley, from Challones to Sully-sur-Loire, was added to Unesco’s world heritage sited in 2000, joining the likes of the Chartres Cathedral, the banks of the River Seine in Paris and the routes of Santiago de Compostela in the country, among many others.
There are hundreds of chateaux in the Loire Valley, built in days gone by by French royalty and nobility when the Loire was the centre of French power. Chateau de Chambord is perhaps one of the best known chateaux in the world, featuring striking French Renaissance architecture. It currently serves as a major tourist attraction having been acquired by the government in the 1930s.
Something else the Loire Valley does well is wine. While drinking and driving definitely do not mix, if one member of the party acts as a designated driver, you can all reap the benefits of the fantastic wines on offer when you get the bottles home!
The valley is the third largest wine region in the country, according to Loire Valley Wines, with some 740 million gallons of wine produced yearly. Chenin blanc, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir are among the region’s specialities, so get yourself to the vineyards before making your way back to the UK
By admin
July 20th, 2007 at 07:38pm
Under France
An endless amount of fun can be had for under $20, even in the capitol of haute couture and high-end cuisine.
The Louvre offers reduced ($8 per ticket) prices Wednesday and Friday nights and free admission to those under 26. It’s free on the first Sunday of the month, and always free to vistors under 18.
The Musee d’Orsay drops its prices on Sundays and Thursday evenings, and it’s free on the first Sunday of the month.
Centre Georges Pompidou, the home of modern art, is also free on the first Sunday of the month
Stop by a newsstand for a 55-cent copy of a weekly publication named Pariscope. It provides lists of free cultural events, gallery exhibits and church concerts. It’s all in French, but easy to translate
The stunning and opulent Opera Garnier has cheap seats available on the day of a performance, and many churches hold free classical concerts, usually on Sunday afternoons.
Walking up the Eiffel Tower is cheaper than riding the elevator — and a good way to work off all the croissants and baguettes that I can never get enough of when I’m in Paris. Even if you take the elevator up, consider walking down for the breathtaking view.
Once you begin strolling around Paris, you’ll find endless possibilities. There is wonderful architecture to discover with a self guided walking tour. There are many wonderfully talented artists setting up shop along the banks of the Seine and around Montmarte. Even just sitting on the grass at the foot of the graceful Eiffel Tower, holding hands with the one you love is an experience you’ll cherish forever, and it’s completely free!
If you’d like to spend a bit more, consider taking a guided tour. You can book a guided tour of The Louvre, or perhaps lunch at the Eiffel Tower. A tour guide will speak English, and they can take you on a night time City Illuminations Tour, which is breathtaking, or perhaps out to Versaille. There are many possibilities for you to consider.
By admin
July 14th, 2007 at 08:57pm
Under France
For many looking to go on a European vacation, a Paris tour is highly prized among travelers. There is good reason for this. A Paris tour provides a vehicle for the exploration of French culture combined with fun, active events to participate. This combination makes a Paris tour a special event that is enjoyable for all.
The world is comprised of many cities and each has its own unique history. Certain cities, however, can be considered special because they have a rich history that is vastly different from other cities in the world. The extensiveness of the history and the richness of the culture create a landscape that is quote memorable and delivers an emotional impact to those who visit. Of all the world’s famous, historical cities, very few possess these special attributes to the degree in which Paris, France possesses them.
Group Sightseeing
Before getting into a discussion on what to do during a Paris tour, it is advised that one join a group sightseeing tour if visiting the area for the first time. Certainly, you can have a fun and exciting journey traveling through a strange country on your own, but you should be aware that there may be an inherent problem present with such a adventure.
If you are not familiar with the city, then there a number of sights you are probably going to miss out on a number of things you would not miss out on if someone was there to point them out to you. On a side note, if you are aligned with a group, you will probably also be able to save money on food and souvenirs as such tours are often designed with the notion of avoiding budget busting destinations.
This is by no means an attempt at discouraging going off on your own, but rather a suggestion as to how to get the most out of your tour vacation.
Activities to Partake on a Paris Tour
In addition to visiting the most well known tourist destinations such as the Eiffel Tower and the Moulin Rouge, there are a number of different sightseeing and daytrips you can partake. You can also enjoy a number of evening excursions. These are excellent for enjoying the nightlife of the special city. Paris is a city with a lot going on in it, so a comprehensive Paris tour could take several days to complete.
Without a doubt, that will certainly make your vacation an adventurous and busy one. Also, you need not spend all your time on land as there are sailing trips available for those who want to spend a little time on the Parisian water. Paris has a lot to offer so be sure to take full advantage of it.
By admin
July 14th, 2007 at 05:13pm
Under France
There is an old saying which states that Paris is the place where all good people go to die. It is the combination of historical charm, modernism, and a heady underworld which makes Paris a fantasy tourist destination. It is the top 5 Paris attractions which draw people to this great city, again and again. Beyond the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre there are attractions which take visitors by surprise and in doing so create memories that last a life time. Below are a few of the hottest destinations in Paris, France. If you visit Europe, for work or pleasure, be sure to find the time to explore and experience the top 5 Paris attractions.
Paris is an old city and with history comes a great deal of memories. It is within France that these memories are replicated in stone. Paris is the capital of France and the city of monuments. This beautiful city is home to hundreds of monuments and intricately carved structures which dominate the cityscape. The Eiffel Tower embodies the essence of Paris. It is the most famous and visited of all the top 5 Paris attractions. The tower was built in 1889, as a physical and tangible representation of all things French. It was created only to be a temporary structure and was to be taken down after the world’s fair. It remains today as one of the top 5 Paris attractions. Another attraction is the Centre Pompidou or the Beaubourg. This is actually the museum which houses all of France’s greatest masterpieces by modern artists. This is a must see for aspiring artists and one of the most historic destinations in the top 5 Paris attractions.
One of the most photographed places in the top 5 Paris attractions is the Louvre. This small castle is now home to a number of paintings and sculptures by famous artists. It is here that you can find the Mona Lisa. Of course, architecture makes it on the list of top 5 Paris attractions. The Notre Dame Cathedral is an attraction that can not be overlooked. This is the most breath taking and spiritual structure in the top 5 Paris attractions. It is here that the world’s first true basilicas can be found. Some would assert that they are the best in the entire world. The Notre Dame Cathedral was built in the early 1100s and has since remained a solid structure and a representation of France’s flawless architecture.
In 1870, the Sacre Couer or Sacred Heart church was built. The structure is preceded by an exerting 237 step stone staircase. These are but a few of the top 10 Paris attractions. Other places to visit include the Luxembourg Gardens, Pere-Lachaise Cemetery, Arc de Triomphe, Musee Rodin, Marais, and Musee Jacquemart-Andre. Paris is filled with entire centuries of history and certainly a visit to Paris is a trip of a lifetime. Make sure to visit all of the top 5 Paris attractions.
By admin
July 14th, 2007 at 10:51am
Under France
Paris is at its most relaxed in the summer, when the annual exodus leaves the leaf-shaded streets miraculously traffic-free. The only catch is finding something to eat, since restaurants, markets and food shops traditionally close for the entire month of August and sometimes part of July. Here is a selection of places that will remain open to satisfy the cravings that can strike at any moment in Paris.
Restaurant du Palais Royal
Not only does this chic contemporary restaurant have one of the most peaceful terraces in town, under the arcades of the Palais Royal (photo, right) facing the symmetrical gardens, but its filet de boeuf pommes Pont-Neuf is a cut above your average steak-frites, with thick hand-cut fries stacked into a little tower. Be sure to book ahead for a terrace table.
La Crêperie du Comptoir St-Germain
There is nothing particularly glamorous about this little crêpe stand near Odéon, but it does have the cachet of belonging to Yves Camdeborde, chef at the wildly popular bistro Le Comptoir du Relais St-Germain next door. Order your Nutella-banane and stroll over to the Luxembourg gardens nearby as the hot crêpe drips with chocolate.
3 carrefour de l’Odéon, 6th. 01-44-27-07-97.
Boulangerie Kayser
Eric Kayser has established himself as one of the city’s top bakers since opening this boulangerie about 10 years ago. He is especially famed for his baguette Monge, a naturally leavened loaf with a crisp golden crust, open crumb and slightly sour taste. 8 rue Monge, 5th (organic bread at 15 rue Monge). 01-44-07-01-42.
Café Panis
Touristy it might be with its sidewalk terrace just across from Notre Dame, but Café Panis has an authentically Parisian buzz with reliably friendly and professional waiters. Here the croque monsieur comes on pain de campagne (country-style bread) rather than the traditional white bread, making it a substantial snack. 21 quai Montebello, 5th. 01-43-54-19-71.
Fromagerie Quatrehomme
Marie Quatrehomme (photo, right) personally selects her cheeses from French producers before aging them in the cool cellars beneath her shop, bringing them out only when they have reached their peak of ripeness. Summer is the best season for goat cheese, since the animals have been feeding on fresh grass. Don’t miss the 36-month-old comté (made with cow’s milk) from producer Marcel Petite. 62 rue de Sèvres, 7th. 01-47-34-33-45.
Pozzetto
Legendary ice cream shop Berthillon closes during the summer, though you can still buy its glaces from cafés along rue St-Louis-en-l’Ile. Alternatively, treat yourself to Turin-style gelato at Pozzetto, which thoughtfully remains open in hot weather. 39 rue du Roi-de-Sicile, 4th. 01-42-77-08-64.
By admin
July 9th, 2007 at 09:24pm
Under France
The in-box of Bonjour Paris is beginning to resemble an advice to the lovelorn column. We never purported to be “Dear Abby” but we’re delighted to try to come up with ideas (and hopefully) solutions, for our readers. In this age of cross-cultural, trans-Atlantic relationships, anything goes.
A long-distance romance used to be when couples were commuting between New York and Washington, DC or Boston. Many people were such constant regulars on flights between San Francisco and Los Angeles that it was almost a club of people who frequently greeted one another by name.
Life has certainly changed. More than a few of our readers commute between NYC and the City of Light. The same goes for other cities in both the US and in Europe. Some people affirm this doesn’t produce the ideal partnership and creates added strain; this is most especially true when there’re children involved.
Can mommy or daddy get home to see Junior’s recital or sporting event? One parent may feel that he or she bares the majority of the responsibility, while the other feels cheated that he/she is missing a major part of their children’s evolution.
Many parents are able to make personal and professional accommodations. Other couples decide that being married, without being day-to-day partners, isn’t for them and tell it to the judge.
Others couples claim their marriages and/or relationships are increasingly exciting and they’re appreciative of their time together. Some people need their own space. One couple I know explains they can focus on their individual careers without having to worry about being home at a specific time to prepare dinner much less eat it. These couples also cherish their time together and attempt to make the most of each minute.
Some couples on the commute TRY not to combine work and family time. This is harder said than done and takes incredible discipline. Between cell phones and PDA’s, a person can be anywhere. There are those of us who remember when the Internet didn’t exist much less fax machines. We wouldn’t return to that era, even though, it may elicit moments of nostalgia.
Some hints when it comes to long-distance commuting:
If one member of a couple is working for a multi-national company, chances are that there’s a clause in the employment contract specifying conditions for home-leave. The more “essential” you are, the more generous it will undoubtedly be.
If you’re involved in a romance, keep your weekends flexible. Register on every last-minute Internet site that (usually on Tuesdays) announces remaindered seats. When you see a reasonably priced fare cross your screen, (and I know people who stay up until midnight ET), grab it. If fares are at parity, opt for the same airline so you may accrue frequent flyer points.
Redeem those points for tickets during peak seasons. Summer and Christmas holidays are when prices are generally at their highest. Reserve these flights as far in advance as conceivably possible since airlines would rather sell seats than give them away. So much for fidelity. Airlines are out to enhance their bottom profit and loss line.
Don’t dismiss package deals. Some are less expensive than just the airfare. Don’t worry if you don’t check into the hotel – although it’s only polite to call and say you won’t need the room.
Invest in an Internet phone. Just because you’re geographically separated doesn’t preclude your being in communication. Talking every day diminishes some of the nitty-gritty realities of life that need to be discussed and not put on hold until you see one another.
Web cams cost next to nothing and are a great way to have children see and talk to you. They lessen the loneliness factor — not that a picture in this case can replace your being together.
Numerous parents with whom I’ve spoken say they bring one child at a time to the city where he or she is living. They line up daytime activities and focus on him or her before and after work. It demystifies the assignment (so far away from home) more of a reality. Plus, it makes that child feel ever so special. Don’t forget family vacations in Europe. They’ll add to everyone’s intellectual memory banks for the remainder of your lives.
Communications have evolved so rapidly in the past few years. Use them to your advantage. Sure, there are downsides of being apart– but consider the benefits. They’ll last forever. And, perhaps your relationship will actually be stronger and on a more solid footing. The days of being a “Stepford” wife or husband are becoming ancient history.
By admin
July 8th, 2007 at 08:51am
Under France
Going to Paris for a shopping spree needs not put your household finances down for the next two years. It simply requires a little planning, and being let in on little-known shops offering bargain basement deals.
Paris is a shopping mosaic
Those of you who visited Paris already know that from a shopper’s perspective, the city is divided in broad sections where stores of the same trade tend to congregate. A mosaic of many colors, tastes, and price ranges.
Take Saint-Germain-des-Prés, for instance. The highest part of the famed area, situated closest to Boulevard St Germain, is home to designer clothing stores, sidewalk cafés and restaurants. Dive in, and your footsteps will lead you to Rue de Seine where the art galleries have drawn together.
From Saint-Germain, walk up the Rue de Rennes, towards the Montparnasse area. You’ll be crossing the Rue Du Four where even more expensive clothiers line up the facades. But continue on to the Saint Sulpice metro station, around which many clothing stores offer cheaper garments and accessories.
Sales season in Paris
In another area of the city, not too far from the old Opera house, the Boulevard Haussmann became the homestead of the department stores over a century ago. The Printemps store was built there in 1865, followed closely by the Galeries Lafayette, in 1893. Department stores are not unlike Ali Baba’s treasure cave: clothes, shoes, jewelry, watches, accessories, perfumes spread on a five-story high, gigantic floor space.
Their selection is great, but you have to visit Paris during the official sale seasons to find true bargains there. And there are only two sales seasons in France: winter, and summer. Their respective starting dates in a given year are set by administrative decree, and they each last 6 weeks. In Paris the winter sale season usually starts in the second week of January. The summer sales season starts toward end-June.
Designer depot bargains
For off-season bargains look somewhere else. The gems are often to be found in small shops in God-forsaken streets, or in hard-to-find first-floor apartments. This is especially the case of designer depots.
Though it has become a brand name in North America, a designer depot is in fact a form of commerce. People like you and me bring in clothes we don’t want to wear anymore, and get a little money from the shop owner who will resell our garments for a little more money to other people.
I can hear your blasé comments: “Tcha! Consignment stores! Thrift shops!…” Well, in Paris, designer depots aren’t exactly your regular Salvation Army-type stores. Not at all.
Though not all equal before God, Parisian designer depots are often owned and managed by women with a background in the fashion industry. Women with flair and a sharp eye for what to wear and how. Women who can readily tell you why you would look better in this dress than in that one.
In ‘designer depot”, there is the magic word ‘designer’. Parisian designer depots offer designer and couture clothes at deep, deep, deep discounts. And mind you, clothes in quasi perfect condition. Clothes worn only once. Well, maybe twice.
If you come to them with your regular hoodies, or your last season tennis shoes, or your mall-shopped polo shirt for that matter, do not expect to be welcomed. Expect rejection with a disapproving stare instead.
So, where do they hide?
Then again, not all designer depots were created equal, and where you go shopping for practically-perfect-in-every-way designer clothes is the true measure of your inside knowledge of the city.
I would like to recommend you three ‘petites adresses’ [the French for ‘best-kept-secret places’] I selected amongst a host of others.
For those of you, ladies, who like the classic look, ‘Priscilla’ is the shop for you. Priscilla is lady who owns the place. She reveres such signature names as Yves Saint Laurent, Max Mara, Kenzo, Chistian Dior, and Sonya Rykiel. Her prices range from €60 for a skirt, to €75 for a jacket, to €130 for a lady’s suit. Priscilla advises you to rummage around, and come to her place with an open mind. The shop is located at 4 rue Mouton- Duvernet, in the 14 th district. The nearest metro station is Mouton-Duvernet. Its opening hours are between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm on Monday, and between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm from Tuesday to Saturday with a one-hour break at 1:30 pm.
My next address, ‘Le Jupon Rouge’, is situated at 9 rue de Rochechouart in the 9th district. The owner, Tania, describes here designer depot as “colorful, ethnic but not hippie, and certainly not classical in style”. Tania offers a selection of up and coming French designers such as Bali Barret (a fencing-style vest for €45, cashmere blend cardigans for €45 to €100) and Vanessa Bruno (wool jackets, €90). She also carries more established signatures such as Agnès B (her signature black jacket is offered at €50), and vintage Ungaro blouses for €45. Ladies looking for shoes can fall for pairs of Stephane Kelian low-cut cuban boots (€100), Repetto ballerina shoes (€40), or vintage low-heel horseriding boots (€40-70). Tania opens her doors from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm with a one-hour lunch break at 1:30 pm.
In a totally different style, Griff-Troc is the designer depot you need to lose yourself into when you want to go chic-chic-chic. The owner, Beatrice, chose to specialize in perennial, classic basics in perfect condition. Chic has a heftier price tag, of course, but on the upside Griff-Troc offers brand names for 15-30% of boutique prices. On the shelves at the time I wrote this article, Beatrice had a Chanel suit for €1000 (vs. €5000 at Chanel’s), a brand-new Chloe bag for €800 (instead of €1200), several astounding evening dresses priced between €1200 and €1500 (Chloe, Dior, D&G, Valentino), and Hermès silk scarfs on offer for only €150. She maintains a full selection of bags, jewels, and fragrances. Chic classic never dies, who cares about whether your Chanel suit is this season’s or not? The busy boutique is located in the posh section of the 17 th district, at 119 Boulevard Malesherbes. The nearest metro stations are Villiers and Monceau. Its opening hours are between 10:30 am and 7:00 pm, from Monday to Saturday.
More shopping tips to come
These are just three of my selection of designer depots and small boutiques.In subsequent articles I will recommend more of those ‘petites adresses’, including some specializing in men’s wear. Meanwhile, I hope you have had the opportunity to meet Tania, Beatrice, and Priscilla in person, and find a couple of eye-pleasing items for yourself. Ta-ta!
By admin
July 8th, 2007 at 08:50am
Under France
Like Venice, Paris has always been a magnet for lovers and their affairs. As Woody Allen put it: “As long as you haven’t been kissed during any of those rainy Parisian afternoons, you haven’t been kissed at all.” Paris is where sleepy marriages are rekindled, the flames of passion ignited, vows renewed, and special someones met. But where will you get the most ardent thrill?
Finding your cafe terrace
I will start with an obvious spot: the sidewalk cafe terrace. There are thousands of such in Paris, and lovebirds are a common sight there. The cafe terrace is an enjoyable spot in more than one way. First, they offer a nice resting spot. Second, they make an ideal observatory. The streets become an aquarium, passer-bys are the fish, and you two become the observers. Third, sit down at a terrace where other couples are smooching, and you are part of a community setting a good example to the rest of the world. For all we need is love!
One of my favorite cafes is ‘Les Chevaux de Marly’, inside the Louvre Museum, facing the wing where the Da Vinci Code movie was filmed. Les Chevaux de Marly isn’t your typical sidewalk cafes; the place reeks history, and even when you sit outside you are well protected against the elements thanks to the stone parapet.
Now if you are a die-hard fan of the Latin Quarter, and the St Germain des Pres area, you will certainly want to sit at the terrace of ‘Les Deux Magots’ (A Pair of Old Bachelors). French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre and his wife, writer Simone de Beauvoir, used to hole up there in the 50s. Rather large and well protected by a long awning, the terrace is a great spot to observe the foot traffic moving along the busy Boulevard St Germain. The atmosphere inside the cafe has kept some of its mid-20th century flavor. A tad on the expensive side, but history and a great view have a price, haven’t they?
More suggestions? Check out the following areas, you’ll find nice cafes: ‘Butte aux Cailles’ (in the 13th district), ‘Place de la Contrescarpe’ (in the 5th district), ‘Place des Abbesses’ (on the Montmartre Hill), and the perennial cafe facing the Pont St Louis, on Ile St Louis, near Quai de Bourbon.
Cool streets to roam
I always advise my friends who take the trip to Paris to discover the city on foot. Walking is the absolute best way to enjoy sightseeing in Paris. And ‘look up’ must be your operative word. Don’t just look at eye level: raise your eyes, and observe what’s above. The ‘upper floor’ scenery is worth it.
For romancing the love of your life, certain places have these very special qualities which will set them apart in your memories of togetherness. I will tell you about three for now, and there will be more to come.
Atop my list, ‘Place Furstemberg’. From the plaza of the St Germain Church, walk toward the Seine and Rue Bonaparte. Turn right into Rue de l’Abbaye. Follow the street to the first short alley on your left. Turn and you end up on ‘Place Furstemberg’. French painter Eugene Delacroix had his studio there, and this makes an interesting spot to visit during daytime. But ‘Place Furstemberg’ takes a whole other atmosphere at night. It is quiet, isolated, and sort of private. The nearby abbey lends it a historical feel. Sitting under the trees, the wooden benches welcome eternal lovers.
My second pick would be the steep flights of stairs leading up to the top of the Montmartre Hill, and the quaint streets below ‘Place du Tertre’. Here again, you would be well inspired to discover the hill during the day, and come back to it in the evening. Montmartre is one of the last areas in Paris to have retained their ‘olden days’ feel. Strolling around the hill at night gives you a whiff of what Paris was like in the late 1800s. Most definitely one of the very best spots to roam hand in hand, stealing a kiss here and there under the quiet glow of the street lights.
As a final destination for this short trip, let me take you to the park located at the tip of ‘Ile de la Cite’. This is the largest of the two islands, and the small park named ‘Square du Vert Galant’ takes its name from King Henri the 4th, a womanizer in his own right (’Galant’ alludes to his reputation as a smooth talker, and ‘Vert’ means the guy was ‘always ready to fire’). Walk to the ‘Pont Neuf’ bridge, go down the flight of stairs opening behind Henri’s statue, and you will wind up on the wharf. There, lined with century-old trees, the park offers a magnificent view of the river Seine and the Louvre Museum. I recommend discovering the spot together during daytime. It is also the port of call of a boat tour operator. Seize this opportunity to boat upstream and downstream. Don’t forget to bring an extra sweater, the temperature at water level is chillier.
More romantic places
I love a good romance, and I would love to contribute to yours in my own way. So I’ll write more about these special Parisian spots in further installments to this series. Meanwhile, you will find more resources on the website Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News (see ‘About the Author’ section in this page). Till then, I wish your couple to grow even stronger.
By admin
July 8th, 2007 at 08:50am
Under France
There are so many things to see in Paris and so little time to do it that your journey in the French capital can wind up taking the colors of a marathon run. I offer you a different take on it: stop, review your options, and decide to kill a couple of hours doing just nothing but reading a good book in a spot where you can be left to yourself. Here are three spots where you can do just that.
The China House
In America when we think of a social venue where to spend a couple of hours reading and sipping on some hot beverage, the local Starbucks shop comes to mind almost immediately. Starbucks is slowly building a beach head in Europe where Italian coffee dominates the espresso market, leaving very little room for the kind of brew Starbucks sells.
In other words, Starbucks shops do not abound in Paris. But there are many other venues of the sort, and sometimes much better ones. The China House (La Maison de la Chine) belongs to this latter category.
Standing at 76 rue Bonaparte, in the Saint Germain des Pres area, La Maison de la Chine offers tea lovers a perfect haven to taste various teas and nibble at a couple of ‘macarons’ (small cookies with a light cream spread within) and other pastries. The ‘tea house’ is open from 3:00 to 7:00 pm Monday to Saturday. Tasting sessions give you an opportunity to sip on some of the finest Chinese teas: Tieguanyin, Longjing, Yinzhen, and Shuixian. The tea is prepared along the lines of an ancient tradition with special bamboo utensils, clay teapot and water pot, a ‘cup for smelling’ and a ‘cup for sipping’.
Should you also wish to have lunch there, their Shanghaï Cafe opens between 12:30 and 2:30 pm. Their courses are a mix between Chinese and Thai food, with some interesting flavors. The food doesn’t come cheap (there are two options, one for €22, the other for €28) but quality is good.
Les Jardins du Luxembourg
Definitely one of my favorite areas in my teenage years. The Luxembourg Gardens are the Parisian version of London’s Hyde Park and NYC’s Central Park. It extends across a large section of the city, spreading over parts of several districts. The French Senate House was built along one of its sides.
Monikered ‘le Luco’ by the youth of the 6th district (a well-to-do crowd with its own social codes and exclusive parties), the Jardins du Luxembourg are informally divided into sections.
In one of these, children can ride an old wooden-horse merry-go-round, and catch metal rings with short wooden sticks. Further away, there are a few tennis courts, and a puppet theater. The vast expanse of land facing the French Senate House features a water basin where youngsters float model sailboats.
One of the quietest spots of the Gardens borders the Rue d’Assas. It is shaded by old trees around which narrow alleys wrap up. Metal chairs line up the alleys, and it may become hard to find one unoccupied during summer as students love to hang around and study in this area. A perfect place for a quiet afternoon of reading or romantic strolling.
Meet Louis the 13th at Place des Vosges
Ensconced by four rows of 17th century mansions, Place des Vosges is probably best known for its art galleries. Those exhibit artworks of a more modern breed that the galleries which line up the famed Rue de Seine, near Saint-Germain-des-Pres.
To me however, Place de Vosges is mainly remarkable for its peaceful, miniature park. The 39 mansions around the Place shelter it from the traffic rumble coming from the Rue Saint Antoine (Southern side) and the Boulevard Beaumarchais (Eastern side). This sort of a rampart also serves as a wind-cutter during fall and springtime.
Mid-sized trees line up the fence around the symmetrically built park. At its center, a tree-circle in which stands a bronze statue of Louis the 13th who, we learn, died at age 33. Around the central circle, my target: one of four green lawns where I can unfold a spread, lay down, and read.
During summer, there are always a couple of classical and jazz formations playing under the nearby arcades. They play at a pretty good level which gives a nice touch to the local vibe.
Among the restaurants around the Place, I personally like ‘Ma Bourgogne’ at No. 19. They serve hearty meals for €25-35.
Plenty more spots to come
There is no shortage of quiet spots where to kill a couple of delicious hours in Paris. In fact I’ll write about some more in the coming weeks. When you are in Paris, take some time off to enjoy the city vibe differently; don’t just roll with the Parisian hustle-bustle. I’ll see you in a while with more food for thought.
By admin
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