I am 27. Grew up in England. Went to school in France. Ride BMX, run 3 cars, enjoy history & video g...
I am 27. Grew up in England. Went to school in France. Ride BMX, run 3 cars, enjoy history & video games. Collect toys and rant and rave at everything which I don't like! Free & single.
Member since:19.01.2005
Reviews:21
PARIS the capital of France. I have been many times, for work, for pleasure, for shopping, to parties, to concerts, to museums, to special days such as the 14th July national holiday. For the Tour de France, the World Cup. I use it as a international connection to other countries (by train or plane). I have also got stuck in traffic for many hours whilst trying to get the other side of the city.
Depending on the reason of your visit, Paris has so much to offer. Paris has some of the most famous landmarks in history. The Eiffel tower, Le Louvre, L'arc de Triumph, Champs Elysee are among the most renowned.
I
find that I never have enough time to visit everything I plan to do when I go. I usually plan two activities for the morning and two in the afternoon. The rest of the time to soak up the atmosphere. Enjoying one of the street cafes with a coffee and newspaper.
Depending how you travel to Paris, what I find that strikes me the most is the arrogance of the French. I am not going to debate or go into great detail about this but they do tend to be rather rude. Saying that the French government is sending out a message to the 'representatives' to be more welcoming to visitors.
If you fly into (not literally) one of the airports, a typical airport madness must be negotiated. Rent-a-car, taxi or train it to the capital can be real adventure in itself. All are difficult to master and sign posting is not always clear. Unfortunately you get to see all the bad sides of the sprawling mass of the outskirts of Paris. Graffiti, traffic jams, disgusting trains etc… all give the visitor the bad vibes before you even get to see the capital. I can only suggest that you soak it all up and make the most out of it.
If you drive to Paris from Calais, two motorways link the port to the capital. The A1 & A16. I prefer the A16, a little longer but less traffic. If you have the time take the back roads such as the N17 and stop off at some of the small towns along route. Again, once you get to the outskirts of Paris, traffic jams are common and be very alert when looking for your exit. Mind the priority from the right which is still applicable on the 'Peripherique'. RADAR TRAPS!! French police can be right b@sta"ds. On the spot fines must be paid straight up for foreigners if you are not careful. Look at the AA or RAC for more info. Don't try and 'Gumball' it like I did!
Trains, such as the Eurostar brings you into the 'Gare du Nord' of Paris and offers Metro, buses and suburban / mainline trains to northern France. This as far as I am concerned it the best way to travel. Every means of transport at your feet. Negotiating your way around can be confusing so make the time to work out the transport system. Mind those pickpockets! Do watch your belongings.
Paris is a relatively small city with easy access for tourist centres. The best way around Paris is by foot & metro. Each area of Paris offers different types of interests and a visit to the tourist office is well worth going to (Champs Elysee). Plenty of free maps, brochures and flyers can be picked up. I find that you should plan your trip prior to going and try to have a ruff Idea what you want to do and see. Plenty of websites and books can be picked up and give you great insight to any of the attractions.
I love Paris and you can spend quality time wandering around the back streets and monuments. Make sure you have a few coins in your pocket for toilets and if you see one, use it!! These are not common and can be very difficult to find. If you have time, stop of at a café, have a coffee (about €1.50) then pop to the loo there. Usual tricks, such as going to the toilet at McDonalds / Quick apply.
As for the tourist attractions, well these can be crowded and long queues apply. Make the most of your time and plan in advance. Don't rush and enjoy the whole Paris experience.
Food is generally good quality, most decent restaurants have 'menus'. These offer a starter, main course and desert for a lesser price than individual plates. Check the menu at the front door. Cards are widely acceptable, so no need to worry about having lots of cash on you. English is not spoken everywhere and don't expect it. You are in France! The French would much prefer you to at least try to speak French with them.
Hotels are plenty but do try to book in advance as rooms especially during the summer months can be more expensive and if you are not careful you will find yourself stuck in hotels in the suburbs. Web sites offer services and a good critics so check them out before you go.
On a final note, Paris is a wonderful city, lots to see and do. Can be expensive if you don't look down the back streets. Don't buy the first item you see and try and steer clear of street vendors. Everything is worth looking at and shopping can be fun. Parking the car is at times difficult, you can't pay at the meter because you need a special card. I opt for underground parking which is far more easier and less hassle.
Go to Paris, enjoy it, take loads of pictures and have a great trip.
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Jan 29th, 2006
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