Travel

Parks, Gardens and Green Spaces in Paris

Paris is well known for its idyllic parks - popular and frequent are the images of people leisurely strolling and walking through well-manicured, pristine and often quaint gardens. A recent New York Times article described the hidden gardens of Paris and there truly are too many to list.  Therefore, let's focus though on some of the major parks and gardens found throughout the city.

A Scenic Attraction - Paris Rooftops

As you admire monuments and the architecture the city has to offer, it's easy to forget there's a stunning attraction high above the ground, viewable from everywhere - Paris rooftops!

It probably doesn't sound that exciting - but as you can see from these photos taken from an apartment window within the 16th arrondissement (thanks, Lise!), the views are beautiful and very visually interesting.  Imagine seeing this view every day! 

Check out these prime locations (aside from the Eiffel Tower) where you can climb some stairs or take an escalator to view the mystical Parisian rooftops.

Parisians Told to Smile at Tourists

For the 2nd year in a row, Paris City Hall and the Paris Tourism Office have launched an initiative to make the city more friendly to tourists.   Last year, the mayor of Paris handed out leaflets at the Eiffel Tower.  The leaflets described a charter on how to treat tourists visiting the city.  Now, the theme has shifted to a more proactive agenda with the slogan of "Paris Smiles for You!"

Velib in Paris - Free Bicycles

The City of Paris, in partnership with advertising company JCDecaux, has launched one of the most advanced public bicycle program in recent times.

There are over 1,400 stations throughout the city where bicycles are available. It's claimed that one is never further than 200-300 meters from one of these stations. What's more, there are now even dedicated cycling lanes on some streets.

10 Tips on How to Plan a Cheap Paris Vacation

That trip to Paris may sometimes seem better suited for jet setters, the adventurous, and surely the wealthy. In actual fact, visiting Paris can be a reality and relatively easy on the pocketbook.

Here are 10 tips to keep in mind when planning your Parisian holiday.

Paris Museums at Night

Next year on May 16, 2009 will be the 5th annual The Night of Museums, not only in Paris, but across Europe when 2,000 museums will open their doors on this Saturday evening as a free, social event for everyone.

Organized by the French Ministry of Culture and Communication, 130 museums in Paris will participate including the Louvre, the Rodin Museum (pictured) and the National Gallery of the Grand Palace to name a few. This is a special event when you'll be able to roam some of the world's finest museums until 11:30 PM or midnight!

The Most Useful Map of Paris Around

During your Paris vacation you will likely not be renting a car and driving, as you will inevitably have to drive through one of the infamous roundabouts that aren't for the faint of heart.  (think 5-6 lanes of traffic but without any car lanes).  Instead, opt for taking the Metro or walking - which are in fact the primary ways that Parisians get around.

One of the most important things to get upon your arrival is a map of the city, but not just any map like the single-page one offered at your hotel. You will need the Paris Pratique (par arrondissement) - in other words Practical Paris by Neighborhoods.

Beaches in Paris Every Summer - Paris Plage

Paris let its hair down every July to August with its own version of Californian beaches called Paris Plage.  Large, potted palm trees, truckloads of sand, beach chairs and umbrellas are transported to the city's Right Bank, and in an all-night major set-up, carefully arranged along the Seine.  Throw in street entertainment, games for kids and food, and it's a fun event for all.

Le Tour de France

France is home to the world's largest cycling race, le Tour de France, which has had its fair share of triumphs, struggles and controversy. The race is held each July, making its way through the French countryside to finish along the Champs-Elysées in Paris.

If you're going to be in Paris to watch the final stage, here are some pointers you should know.

An American Girl in Paris

The long awaited Sex and the City movie has finally premiered and the DVD is already out.

The HBO series ran for 6 seasons, with the 2-part finale partly filmed in Paris. For those who didn't watch the season finale - here is a quick recap, along with details of where Carrie Bradshaw's (Sarah Jessica Parker) adventures took her in the City of Light.