Paris travel guide: Travel tips, reviews, photos, & videos from real travelers.

Attractions

Category: Cemetary
Paris, France, Europe
16 rue du Repos, 20e, Paris, France

Ever wonder what Molière, Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde have in common? They’re all buried at the Cimetière du Père Lachaise, which, with the visitors to Morrison’s grave, has become one of the city's most visited attractions. The much-quieter Cimetière du Montparnasse reads like a who's who of French—and international—intelligentsia: Simone de Beauvoir, Émile Durkheim, Jean-Paul Sartre, Samuel Beckett, Man Ray and Susan Sontag are all buried here. But perhaps the most interesting encounter with Paris’ past residents comes with a visit to the Catacombs, an underground ossuary in the city's vast network of subterranean tunnels and caverns that dates back to the end of the 18th century.

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Category: Art Museum
Paris, France, Europe
Musée du Louvre 75058 Paris cedex 01, Paris, Ile-de-France FR
www.louvre.fr

What else can be said about the world’s most famous museum? With over 35,000 priceless works of art on display from nearly every geographical location and artistic genre, The Louvre is a must visit for everyone ranging from casual observers wanting a quick glance at the Mona Lisa to the hard core museo-philes who spend thirty minutes admiring a random brush stroke on an obscure 8th Century portrait. The building itself has a fascinating history, originally built as a fortress to protect French Royalty from the burgeoning Anglo-Norman threat. Under the reign of Louis XIII, Louis XIV and Louis XV the structure drastically expanded and by 1882 the Louvre had shifted from a place of government to a place of culture. The iconic glass pyramid built by I.M Pei was completed in 1989 and new additions and installations are constantly being added. Though most famous for having many famous European paintings, be sure to check out the expansive and impressive amount of tribal and aboriginal art.

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Category: Observation Deck / Tower
Paris, France, Europe
Champ de Mars 75007, Paris, Ile-de-France FR

Photos, films and even Vegas imitations fail to truly capture the resplendent architectural majesty that is Paris’ most famous and recognizable structure. Completed in 1889 by architect Gustave Eiffel (so that’s where they got the name) the tower is the tallest building in Paris and provides a breathtaking view of the city, especially at night. There are elevator access lifts that take you up, but those in the mood for adventure (and exercise) should take the estimated 1,665 steps to the first and second floors (it’s also considerably cheaper this way). However, in order to get to the very top you’ll have to brave a long, unavoidable line and a stomach churning elevator ride. But don’t worry; the panoramic view of Paris is definitely worth it.

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Category: Cemetary
Paris, France, Europe
Rue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 21150 Venarey-les-Laumes, Venarey Les Laumes, Bourgogne FR

When most people think of the best ways to spend their travel time, “hanging out with dead people” doesn’t usually show up on that list. However, those people often change their minds when they visit the Catacombs of Paris, a hauntingly gorgeous series of underground tunnels currently housing the remains of over 6 million Parisians. In the late 17th Century, Les Innocents Cemetery (Paris’ largest cemetery, located in the middle of the city) was saturated to a point where those living nearby began succumbing to disease due to contamination caused by improper burials and open mass graves. What began as an odd method of problem solving has since transformed into a fascinating display of history. Make sure you have a map or a guide because the complex series of tunnels can lead those directionally challenged (like me) to get lost (I did). Warning: For those who find skeletons and bones frightening, this destination might not be for you!

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Category: Town Center / Square / Plaza
Paris, France, Europe
75008 8ème Arrondissement , Paris, Ile-de-France FR

Located on the Eastern End of the Champs-Élysées, the Place de la Concorde is a major hub of Paris representing a massive cross section of people, tourists and locals alike. Designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel in 1755 the area was originally named Place Louis XV to honor the then king. The name was soon changed during the French Revolution to Place de la Revolution and become known as the place where several members of the royal family (Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette) were guillotined. Flanked by numerous buildings (including the U.S Embassy) and sprinkled with several statues and fountains, the Place de la Concorde is a great place to get lost and perfect for people watching. Sitting there for less an hour I witnessed a group of French teenagers doing a puppet show, a half dozen lost senior citizens trying to find the Eiffel Tower and one very drunk man playing an out of tune banjo. Like the rest of Paris, it is busy, bustling and full of energy and life.

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Category: Church / Cathedral
Paris, France, Europe
6 Parvis Notre-Dame, Paris, Ile-de-France 75004 FR
http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/

That pesky hunchback aside, very few cathedrals of Europe have the rich history and architectural beauty of the world famous Notre Dame Cathedral. Located on the on the eastern half of the Île de la Cité, Notre Dame is equally impressive on the exterior as it is on the interior. Construction began on the cathedral in 1163 and continued into the early 14th Century. In addition to the main cathedral, visitors are encouraged to climb the 387 steps to the cathedral towers or descend underground into the archaeological crypt. Tours, masses and vesper services occur regularly and entrance to the main cathedral is free! However, since the cathedral is no longer considered a Parish, weddings, baptisms and funerals are not longer allowed inside.

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Reviews(Average Rating: 93% for 21 reviews)

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NashataReviews: 2
Posts: 0
I wish I went on a Private Tour
10/01/2009
Rating
90%
Paris, France
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AnnaCDReviews: 4
Posts: 0
Cinematic Paris
10/16/2008
Rating
98%
Paris, France
It was like something out of a movie. I was a an American teenager, in Paris for the weekend and he was a young Rimbauld scholar at one of Paris' public universities. We met at the famed expatriate bookstore Shakespeare and Company when we reached for the same used copy of Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass. I am not making this up. Ours was a short affair, only about nine hours long, but our adventures in Paris ranged from the romantic to the bizarre. He wore a thin scarf knotted over his jacket. At the bookstore, we were invited to an impromptu tea party in honor of a small blonde dog called Zorba. He took me to see a documentary about the poet Charles Bukowski and tried to kiss me as the credits rolled. As the sun went down, we climbed the hill into Montmarte and watched the sky change colors on the footsteps of the Sacre Couer. For dinner, we ate duck tagine in the darkest cafe I have ever seen, lit only by tiny tea-lights. I lost his email address before I even got back to my hostel. If you're still out there, Mattheiu, thanks for the perfect Parisian day. I wish I had kissed you back.
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Carlin Cwik
- Top member
Reviews: 9
Posts: 32
Find your nook, I found my cranny
10/15/2008
Rating
90%
Paris, France
If there's one thing I learned after spending time in Paris: do not attempt to visit in one day. In fact, do not attempt to visit in one week. There’s too much to taste. I was there for three weeks and couldn't fit this extraordinary metropolis into one jam packed, espresso dipped, cheese filled adventure/vacation/study. And I'm not done with the food references. The cuisine is definitely worth the trip in itself, but the best thing about spending a good amount of time in Paris is getting to know a neighborhood and the delectable articles therein. Like any city worth its fame, Paris has volumes of "nooks and crannies," each with their own patisseries, cafes and local attractions. The Bastille region of Paris is a quiet corner and an excellent place to get situated. The grimy Saint-Antoine prison that once held France’s elite in their final hours felt far, far away from my tidy one bedroom apartment off of a cobblestone plaza. I drifted from my room every morning to narrow streets lined with furniture shops, and wandered under many an antique sofa - often lifted over my petite frame as I galloped threw - before reaching a patisserie of choice. For sure, this routine was something to count on, and I found that its familiarity primed me for the exploring, wandering and confusion to follow. I saw many sights during my stay, but immersing myself in the Bastille and the Bastille’s pain-au-chocolate was ultimately my most delicious decision. After doing so I felt more French than ever - more French than my very French great grandmother made me. And isn't that the point? When you leave Paris, you should leave ready to someday return to a place that you once lived.
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Tsung ChiReviews: 2
Posts: 0
Pass the Cheese!
09/19/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
The first day in Paris I ate too much sweet cheese, and in the bathroom that night, I was like, "Ohhhh...GEEZE!" The second day in Paris, I climb up the tower, now the site I beheld was such a wower! The third day in Paris, I met my true soul mate, but the beauty would not even agree to one single date! The fourth day in Paris, I drank some great wine, but after the tenth glass, I fell on my hine! the fifth day in Paris, I took in some great art, the perfect paintings helped mend my broken heart! My last day in Paris, I was sad to depart, but Paris will always have a place in my heart.
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ReisesteissReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Crêpe flambé
09/10/2008
Rating
80%
Paris, France
I love Crêpe: Crêpe with Nutella, Crêpe with ham and cheese, Crêpe with goat cheese and pears, Crêpe with cinnamon and sugar, ... At the age of 12 I visited Paris - the Crêpe paradise, as I thought - with my parents. Of cause I dragged them into a Crêpérie. Being adventurous and French being my worst subject at school at the same time I picked what sounded extremely tasty to me. I ordered and shortly after the waiter appeared gracefully presenting my heavenly Crêpe - just to set it on fire!!! I was shocked about the cruelty. My parents were shocked about me having alcohol on my food and the waiter was shocked about us being shocked. My dessert was a Crêpe doused with Grand Marnier, served flambé at the table and I will never forget the meaning of flambé and the Crêpe in Paris.
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a.flihReviews: 2
Posts: 0
To Young To Care
08/26/2008
Rating
63%
Paris, France
I have been to Paris about 5 times now. I guess it never really caught my eye. I went to the Sacred Heart Cathedral or Basilique du Sacré Coeur. I Have also been on the bato mouche ( fly boat). The best part about Paris is that the their is no limit to places to eat. All are different from Irish Pubs to Moroccan Restaurants. My favorite thing to eat is crepes with neutella which is a chocolate spread.
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hellopaperclipReviews: 1
Posts: 0
My favorite city in the world.
08/22/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
The tourist stuff is great, but its winding side streets and passageways make Paris the best city in the world for aimless wandering. Here’s how to do it: First, buy one of those little "Plan de la Cite" map books they sell all over the place. Next, hop on the Metro and go. Somewhere. Anywhere. It’s simple. When I lived in Paris I would play this game all the time, and I found amazing things: Flea markets, tiny museums, postcard stalls lined up along the river, cafes with great coffee, mediocre sandwiches, and perfect people watching (especially in the Marais or Montmartre). It is easy to get lost, which is why I recommend the map book. Also, be sure to check with a concierge or resident friend and have them cross off any Metro stops that might not be safe.
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mmmogren
- Top member
Reviews: 11
Posts: 13
Clothes? Cheese? Count me in!
08/21/2008
Rating
86%
Paris, France
Ok, I admit it. I like to shop. So obviously, Paris was high on my list of destinations. I had to check out the biggies along Rue Etienne Marcel and Place des Victoires: Yves Saint Laurent, Hermes and Miu Miu. Did I buy anything? Nah… I went for the more cheap-y shops and boutiques. That way, I could save up for the food. As you can expect, cafes are in no short order. One of the most famous cafes of Paris is Les Deux Magots, where the likes Oscar Wilde and Hemmingway frequented. Historical AND delicious. And attention cheese fans: The Laurent Dubois' cheese shop is the be-all-end-all for those who are lactosalicious (what? That’s a word, right?). Trust me, no matter how long your stay in Paris is, it won’t be long enough.
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TraveltheWorldReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Paris Underground
08/21/2008
Rating
98%
Paris, France
Tired of all the romantic allures of Eiffel Tower tours and going in an endless tread through museums? Welcome to my world, where the clichés end and the fun begins. Looking for adventure one rainy day while I was in France, I decided to take one of the lesser known tours and avoid the drizzly weather – and so I ended up walking underneath Paris in a labyrinth of dark, narrow paths that snake their way beneath the city. I was in the former sewers of Paris. The tour guide shared some interesting facts about the sewer’s history, including that parts of it once held secret dungeons and also, that an orangutan’s skeleton was mysteriously discovered in one of the dim, lesser used passageways. When I left the sewer tour, the honey-scented air of Paris above ground seemed sweeter than ever – although with so many things in life, it may have just been by comparison.
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spencewriterReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Paris, Every Tourists Dream Destination
08/13/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
There are few places in the world that summon the five senses like Paris does. The smell of freshly baked bread, the sight of the Eiffel Tower, the taste of mouth-watering chocolate crepes, the sound of the romantic French language and the touch of the gargoyles at Notre Dame Cathedral. Many of the popular Paris attractions include the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées. Yet there are many notable attractions that many people may not be familiar with including the Catacombs of Paris, the Père Lachaise Cemetery (where Jim Morrison, Frédéric Chopin and Oscar Wilde are buried) and the Musée Rodin (which houses “The Thinker” Statue). No matter what your taste, Paris truly features something for all ages and for all different types of travelers.
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justgoReviews: 2
Posts: 0
Gay Pear-Ri
08/05/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
Ahhh Paris. It has a certain something. Je ne sais pas quoi.... a joie de vivre if you will. Paris is a city that you can get happily lost in and wander aimlessly for hours with a look of awe on your face. Although Paris has a fantastic public transportation system, you must see Paris on foot. It is a totally walkable city, so pack a pair of comfortable, yet tres chic sneaks and put away the map. Just go where your feet take you. You may get weary but you will somehow muster the energy to keep going as there is so much to see and so many places to explore. Every street and boulevard offers a different view of what life is like in Paris and something will lure you along each way. However if and when you need a break, there are plenty of outdoor cafes where you can grab an espresso or plenty of parks to sneak a little cat nap in. Besides the obvious Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Champs Elysse, Notre Dame, ect, there are many other places where you should spend some time. The 11th arrondisment or neighborhood, known as Bastille, is one of the new up and coming areas in Paris. The Opera House is here as well as the Place de la Bastille. There is always something going on in this Place, always something or someone to watch. Behind the Tex-Mex restaurant (you can’t miss it) is a maze of skinny streets full of funky bars, funky shops and funky people. Rue St. Nicolas and Rue de la Charonne are just two of the streets where you might find and buy something you don’t need. From there, hop on Boulevard Bastille, head toward the river, cross it and continue on to the 5th arrondisment. This is another great neighborhood to wander through which houses the Sorbonne and the Pantheon. Rue Moufftard has many great restaurant and bars. Check out the aptly named American Bar for a good happy hour and American television. Head Northeast toward the river and you will eventually come to the Latin Quartier, parts of the 5th and 6th arrondisments. As a hot tourist spot and populated with many students as well, this is a prime people watching are. There are little rues full of shops and restaurants of every ethnicity packed with people at all hours of the day, helpful when you are trying to be discreet about who you are staring at. It is easy to spend hours in this neighborhood and a great place to do so. Another great neighborhood to wander aimlessly though is Montmartre, or the 18th arrondisment. As the Sacre Couer, a gorgeous, pristine church, sits up high on a hill, the area around it is much the contrary. The artists lived and still live in this area. They were the rebel types, those who bucked the system and provided us with this wonderland escape. Here every corner is truly different. There could be a street full of brothels next to a street full of galleries and cafes. It is quite a different side of Paris; it is an unexpected adventure to wander through this area. Although it is known for its monuments, history, and architecture, the character of each of the Parisian neighborhoods is an equal draw. Paris has many facets that can be appealing, enjoyed and appreciated by people of all ages, races, and genders. You can do it cheap as you need. There are outdoor markets on many corners, bread costs like the equivalent to one American dollar, if that and it is not impossible to find a decent rate for a hotel, or suck it up and stay in a hostel. It’s only a bed. If you do Paris right, you will spend your days walking the city and by the time you are done for the day, you will be glad to have a place to rest your head. Don’t worry if you skip the trendy tourist spots the first time around, it gives you a reason to go back if you haven’t already fallen in love.
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mevansReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Two Poor College Kids, 7 Days in Paris
07/31/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
I visited Paris with a friend over our college's winter break. Being low on cash, we found some creative ways to save money and have fun. We stayed in two hotels that were almost considered hostels. We did have our own room and bathroom. We felt very safe, especially being two young females. While dining out in Paris is luxurious, your wallet won't feel chic after a couple days. When you get to your hotel, find out where you can find bakeries (le boulanger), sandwiches, coffee (cafe), etc. There are many small food businesses and they will offer delicious, more affordable French goodies. The cafe au lait (coffee with milk) is the best I've ever had and it was from a small bakery/sandwich shop near our hotel. It's well worth it to pay to go up the Eiffel Tower. If you're feeling adventurous you can take the stairs, but we opted for the elevator. Go up on a clear day and be sure to look around the 2nd floor before going to the top. Visit a Monoprix to stock up on bread, cheese, and wine for a low price. Getting wine from the store, even boxed wine, is a great way to sample a French staple without going over budget. The most affordable way to get around Paris besides your legs is using the Metro. It's their convenient subway system that will take you everywhere. Tickets are available via tellers at the station or ATM-type machines that can be used in English. Again, we felt very safe, even traveling at night. Paris can be a luxurious vacation without spending money. Walking around and taking in the culture can be as fulfilling an experience as fine dining at the Eiffel Tower. Invest in a good tour guide book and enjoy!
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jesstagirlReviews: 1
Posts: 1
Pleased with Paris
07/30/2008
Rating
95%
Paris, France
There I was, standing in the labyrinth called Paris without a map and only knowing three phrases in French: “crepe,” “café,” and thanks to pop-culture, “Voulez vous coucher avec moi ce soir,” none of which would help me get around Paris. Despite the language barrier and my unfamiliarity with the city, I continued on foot and immersed myself into everything. For two days I saw all the art I could set my eyes on, bought more jewelry from little boutiques than I had money for, smelled the not-so-pleasant aromas in the metros and drank so much espresso I should have bled caffeine for at least a week. I strolled the streets of Paris by hopping on and off random metros and finding my way around, using landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde and my keen sense of direction to guide me. I took little side streets as often as possible and before I knew it I was standing in front of the Louvre. I made it to the Denon wing and gasped as I stood in the gigantic hall (wide enough for two trains) full of Renaissance art from floor to ceiling; it was perfect. After spending the morning at the Louvre (a place that would take six days to see the entire thing) I decided I needed to see more art. The museum pass I bought entitled me entry to most museums in Paris for a day and one day only, so I made the most of it. More wandering led me to the Pablo Picasso museum, and while modern art isn’t my favorite, I enjoyed every second of looking at his work. This was my second time visiting Paris and I didn’t go to ride the Eiffel Tower or to buy a beret—been there, done that. This time I took in the sights, smells, and people of the city. My adventure ended with a metro trip back to my hotel, and the sounds of a gypsy band playing Abba’s hit “Money, Money, Money.” I dropped some coins in the guitar case and realized that Paris opened my eyes to a culture full of excitement and adventure in less than 48 hours.
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NVanBurrenReviews: 1
Posts: 0
My fling with Paris
07/30/2008
Rating
90%
Paris, France
I have long dreamed about having a fling with Paris . . . no, not that one. I finally succeeded and spent a 16 day workacation with my wife in France - Grandma got the kiddo. A Synopsis of Our Trip: 1. Attractions (6 days): Many of the big ones and some little ones (Price: €150) 2. Walking (Eternity): (Price: $200—to see a Podiatrist when I returned) 3. Being Lost (I say 0, wife says 4 days): (Price: Headache) 4. Working (Maybe 5 . . . ok, 2 days): (Price: probably my job—worth every penny) 5. Museums (6 days): Louvre (wife’s fav), Modern Art, Erotica (my fav), and about 10 others that have blurred in a mental picture resembling something by Picasso (6 day Museum pass Price: €65) 6. Picking-out Souvenirs (I say 17 days, wife rolls her eyes and says 1 day): (Price: Still calculating) 7. Misc (16 days): Drinking great wine to dull the terrible pain in my feet (Priceless) Boarding the plane with blood-shot eyes, wearing the same clothes I wore for the last 2 days straight, all while dragging—with the last bit of strength I have—a brand new suitcase full with souvenirs that will eventually end up in some loved one’s closet, I think to myself ‘Paris is classically beautiful, romantically stimulating, and enchanting in every way. Although I wish we had 2 lifetimes to appreciate her in all her grandeur, I must say there is no place like home in the Good Ole US of A.’
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River rafting Misty
- Top member
- Travel guru
Reviews: 16
Posts: 254
Go to Paris and Trace the Paths of Kings and Queens
07/21/2008
Rating
85%
Paris, France
Paris. The name alone evokes the images of the Eiffel Tower, visions of lovers walking along tree-lined parks and artists in berets. The ambience of Paris exudes old world grace and a longing for past glory. The cafes call for you to sit and eat a croissant while the streams of people flit gracefully down the well-manicured pathways. The Louvre Museum demands endurance to traverse the intricate, unending corridors, but it's well worth the tired feet to see the Mona Lisa, works of Nicolas Poussin and statues from antiquity. At the Paris Opera House, not only can you walk the gilded staircases and marble floors, but, perhaps, you can catch the latest opera or even a rehearsal. Versailles is a short train-ride from Paris, but a world away from most everything of modern life. The center of power for King Louis XIV, the elegance of the building and the sprawling lawn and fountains makes you understand why the life of kings and queens were so admired and envied. Paris, its museums, charming buildings and famous landmarks, not only embodies the beauty of the past, but also teems with the life of its citizens. Everyone should go to Paris at least once in their life, and, if they're very lucky, perhaps numerous times throughout every stage of their life.
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Bradleyjax
- Top member
Reviews: 4
Posts: 79
Poor College Grad Visits Culture Rich City
07/18/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
Like so many younglings with a diploma in my hand and no money in my pocket, I decided to throw caution to the proverbial wind and travel the far reaches of Europe the month after I graduated. It was a life changing experience, each new destination providing adventure and beauty beyond the ordinary. However, Paris, my final destination of the trip, proved to be the most exciting. Sleeping on the concrete floor of a friend's dorm room (to save money), I awoke early the first morning to venture about the streets I'd only seen in the movies. In one full day I feel like I saw every tourist attraction possible. The Notre Dame Cathedral, the Catacombs, Place de la Concorde. I even enjoyed some nice American Starbucks inside the Louvre (I'm sure Da Vinci would have loved a nice Mocha Chiller.) After a full day of being a typical tourist, I realized that the reason these places aren't just tourist attractions. They're true spectacles of beauty and culture etched into a history that's exciting and unique. As the day ended, I was determined to make it to the highest point of the Eiffel Tower. Luckily, I made it on the last elevator up, and at the top of one of the most iconic man-made structures on this planet I witnessed a sunrise straight out of a water color. The amber sheen the sun spit out over the Paris skyline as it descended to the other side of the earth made all my financial struggles disappear. Being young, broke and in Paris… what a life!
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finntownReviews: 1
Posts: 0
Paris - high school
07/18/2008
Rating
95%
Paris, France
Paris is awesome! You can't help but have a fantastic time in Paris.
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MostlyElena
- Top member
Reviews: 6
Posts: 22
Paradise for the Museophile
07/15/2008
Rating
90%
Paris, France
The city of romance has the reputation it does for good reason. Paris is absolutely beautiful, and the streets are steeped in history. There is a palpable feeling of being a part of a very old city that has seen the unimaginable when you wander through them. Parisians themselves have a reputation for not being the friendliest to tourists, but staying with a host family (as I did) or local friends, if you have them, is the best way to uncover the warm and open side of the natives of the French capitol. My favorite part of Paris, being a museophile, was the Louvre. It is difficult to conceptualize the sheer size of this museum until you find yourself lost more than an hour from the exit. It has never felt so good to be lost! The most popular attractions are, of course, paintings like the Mona Lisa (which is surprisingly small), but what I cherished most about my day in the Louvre was discovering for myself paintings that I had never seen before, but that spoke to me in some way. There are works of art in this museum that have the power to literally move one to tears. I look forward to my next chance to get hopelessly lost among them.
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Laura Nathan
- Top member
Reviews: 6
Posts: 72
A Big City With Hints Of Small-Town Charm
07/15/2008
Rating
98%
Paris, France
I’ve been to Paris three times now, but I kind of hated the city the first two visits. I felt like I needed to squeeze in every museum and landmark possible despite limited time and money. When I visited a Paris for the third time about five years ago, I finally discovered the city’s charm. I was visiting a friend who was living there for a year, and I arrived on the day that the entire public transportation system went on strike. You couldn’t get a cab to save your life. That meant we were forced to walk everywhere, and I was forced to accept that I couldn’t visit the Pompidou and several other museums I’d wanted to visit. I quickly became thankful for this. Not only did the strike probably save me quite a bit of money, it forced me to go everywhere by foot and discover one of Paris’ lesser-known gems. After a lunch of baguette, brie, and red wine, I was wandering around the fourth arrondissement when I saw a small tea shop called Mariage Frères. As something of a tea connoisseur, I had to go in, thinking I’d just buy some tea to take home. But with so many teas to choose from, I decided to sit down, ask the waiter for advice, and try out one of the many flowery or minty teas. After opting for a tea with roses (how can you resist that?!), I also decided to order crème brulee featuring a special black tea with Chinese and Tibetan flowers and fruits. Now, if you weren’t a tea lover, I can see how crème brulee made with tea might sound unappealing. But it was the most luscious crème brulee I’ve ever had. It captured all of the flower and fruit flavors of the tea without the heavier “black” part of the tea—and taught me that Paris’ charm can easily be found in the small nooks.
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CarFelt
- Top member
Reviews: 9
Posts: 20
Making Paris the Place for You
07/14/2008
Rating
85%
Paris, France
Everyone's seen or heard something about Paris. It's tagged in all the movies and books as a place for romance, and it's in all the tour guides for its many museums and attractions. But with so much to do, how do you plan the Paris trip that will best suit your interests? First, decide what's most important to you: examining the culture, trying the food, seeing the major sights or perhaps shopping the boutiques. Then plan to hit your most important places, but allow time to wander and explore. You may want to sit in a coffee shop and people-watch while you nibble croissants. When I was there, I went to a market and bought bread, cheese and wine, then had a picnic in a park by the Eiffel Tower. I went to the Louvre, but found it overwheming; I much preferred the smaller, yet more captivating Muse d'Orsay.
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travelingmcmahans
- Top member
Reviews: 11
Posts: 14
Paris on two wheels
06/10/2008
Rating
100%
Paris, France
Late one morning during my week in Paris a bicycle tour in my guidebook caught my eye. I hustled across the city by metro, and (picturing my husband’s reaction if I managed to break my skull) donned a helmet, grabbed my bike and pedaled for the first time in five years. It was fantastic! No matter the cold weather and the runny-nose-inducing wind, bicycling through Paris, seeing the panorama of sites unfold like a highlights reel, was magical. We pedaled madly through the Place de la Concorde, the guide’s bell ring-a-linging, all of us grinning ear to ear as we rocketed through the traffic. We lunched outdoors in the splendid gardens at the Tuileries where I fortified myself against the cold by clutching and sometimes sipping hot spiced wine. Despite the rather awkward places I was sore in later, this was just the kind of Paris day I dream about.
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