Places That You Must Not Miss While Traversing Through Lava

Whenever it comes to the issue of a peaceful and soil stirring tourist destination situated in the lap of nature Lava does pop up as an attractive option. There are places in Lava that speaks of impressive grandeur that wins your heart effortlessly. If you ever come to this place you are not going to miss out on the natural oomph factor that seems to ooze out and flow abundantly over here.

Neora valley

Neora valley is definitely one of the most important and lovable tourist spots in Lava. There is a national park over here. This particular place is supposed to be quite close to Darkeeling as well as Kalimpong. Therefore, it can be easily presumed that you are not going to face any sort of trouble from accessibility aspects. As a matter of fact, you have all sorts of arrangements laid out here. At the same time you will not find any dearth of guides if you have to reach out to this place.

Jelep La Pass

The Jelep La Pass is yet another stunning site over here. If it comes to the aspect of sightseeing you cannot let Jelep La Pass go in any case. It is believed that Jelep La Pass happens to be one of the most talked about and most celebrated passes. It is one of the highest passes as well. If you come to Jelep La Pass you would have to see the Menmecho Lake for sure.

Lava monastery

Lava monastery happens to be one of the most talked about places in Lava. If you come to Lava and if you do not visit the Lava monastery your visit should be considered as incomplete. The beauty as well as the anecdote related to the Lava monastery is enigmatic enough to catapult your mind.

Changey falls

Changey falls happen to be one of the most enigmatic and enchanting places that you could probably come across while staying in the vicinity of the paradise known as Lava. There are other places of interests as well, but the beauty of change falls is indeed outstanding. People who come over here would like to be spellbound by looking at the candid beauty of the falls. This particular falls is located at around a distance of 10 km. However, reaching out to this place will not be a problem for Lava village.

Lava Jamgon Kongtrul Monastery

The aforementioned are some of the most notable places that you cannot miss out on as you come to explore the unchartered territories in Lava. Roaming around the place will fill up your heart with unspeakable mirth. As it comes to the aspect of food and lodging then it is going to be no trouble at all. There are adequate numbers of Lava Hotels to take care of that.

James is an inquisitive traveler. He explores various parts of India. He has been to Lava Hotels many a times and significant experience about them. He contributes content regularly to guide people in their itinerant.

Article Source: James_Blatt

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Walking Through The City Of Paris

It is true that Paris is a romantic place, a city that exudes quiet beauty, scenic, and breathtakingly beautiful. Its rich history and its ability to get you back in time makes this city a top notch destination for people who love to travel and get immersed with the local culture. If you are a seasoned traveler you know for a fact that nothing beats walking as the best means to get a grip of a sprawling city. You get the chance of slowly feeling through the city and finally say to yourself that Paris is indeed a wonderful place to visit. This is the reason why you need to stay in a place of your own, a holiday rental Paris that you can call your home while in this beautiful place. And this is also the reason why you should find a way to have a guided walk tour around Paris. This tour will enable you to see, hear, and smell every nook and cranny of Paris.

There are walking tours in Paris. These tours run around 3 hours and give you an intimate account of the city's hidden cultural and historical gems, secret places that maps often fail to record. With a local guide, a simple walk in the city through an intentional route can make the experience worth every step. Are you interested of vantage points you cannot get in a bus? Go for an urban walk tour in the streets of Paris. These walking tours often consist of 12 people and start at Place de la Concorde. This will then proceed right into the heart of Paris - in the 8th arrondissement. The tour would then reach the Louvre Museum. As you enjoy the celebrated pieces of art in the museum, you also get a dose of Paris culture and history in the surrounding gardens of the Louvre, a perfect setting for these information-filled small talks by the walking tour guide.

Vacation apartments in Paris are located all over the city. All you have to do is choose the best one among the many apartments out there. A walking tour compliments this accommodation option. Imagine living in your own home in Paris and then getting intimate with your neighborhood and the city as a whole by joining a walking tour. You can find many things, many routes, interesting cafés, amazing places to eat, beautiful spots to just sit and be still, and many more. With your home right at the center of this city, the walking tour can start you off right in your future urban excursions.

The walking tour proceeds to the Parisian market. In here you can find just about anything, the best of what Paris has to offer especially cheese. There are many stalls here that are dedicated to selling cheese. Do you want to buy some? No problem! Just go around the market and sample the artisan cheeses all too common here. Perhaps you want to prepare some salad or cheese-based recipe when you get home to your luxury Paris vacation rentals. Buy some fresh produce in the market as well and you are all set to have a delicious meal after the walking tour. As a finale to this amazing tour, walk through the Le Marais and enjoy the vintage boutiques lining up the streets here. End the tour at the Pompidou and enjoy the contemporary art of Paris.

Rony Katz is a managing partner and co-founder of eve - European Vacation Experience. He is responsible for product and business development and he oversees the operation of eveparis.com

Article Source: Rony_Katz

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The Pompidou Centre and the Musee D'Art Moderne Museum in Paris

The Pompidou Centre, or the official name of Centre Georges Pompidou, or the other name of Beaubourg due to where it is constructed, or if you prefer its nickname of "the inside out building" due to how the building techniques which were used to provide much space, has much to offer for all of the family.

Although the history of the Pompidou Centre shares some light onto why it is here. With the initiative of French President Georges Pompidou who longed for a free public library to gain information but also a multi-cultural centre that would become home to Musee d'Art Moderne and more.

The opinion of the Pompidou centre can vary from being hideous to some and for others being an interesting tourist attraction in Paris, which has picked up popularity over the years. With millions of visitors from around the globe who visit the Modern Art Museum and the Pompidou itself, it has become one of the top places to visit while on holiday in Paris, suitable for all ages.

Within the middle you can find Biblioteque Publique d'Information, or for short, BPI, and it is a free to use informational library which provides many documents - both visual and audio, materials and much more which are up to date. On the same floor you can also find the Mezzanine cafe.

In the centre also there is the Musee d'Art Moderne museum which showcases many different arts which over the years have accumulated to over 60,000 different pieces of work to make it the largest collection in Europe which covers both the 20th and 21st century.

Obviously as you can imagine the building is very large, but even so it cannot display all of the artworks at once so there are different exhibitions over the year. With another part of the museum found on level 4 dedicated to contemporary art and a modern art section one level higher on level 5.

This tourist attraction has an unusual construction as we mentioned it is known as the inside out building and it makes the construction of the Pompidou centre rather unique due to having all ducting, escalators etc on the outside. But in addition to the museum and library, there are also two cinemas found at the Pompidou Centre, where one is on the 1st floor and the other is in the basement level where you can go and watch a film of your choice.

Also there is an area made for children for ages twelve and below, known as the Galerie des Enfents where workshops are available. As well at the 13/16 Studio which is designed specifically for teenagers with interactive workshops and it is available for free.

In other nearby areas you can find other sections including a graphic design studio, graphic arts galleries and other sections dedicated to media and film as well as a bookshop, cafe and much more.

Centre Georges Pompidou also has a visitors lounge and various information areas for the Musee d'Art Moderne, which generally translates to the Museum of Modern Art, as well as terraces on the 5th floor and not forgetting the restaurant named Le Georges on the 6th floor which proves fantastic views across Paris.

The centre is open every day except for Tuesdays and on the 1st May. From 11am it opens through to 10pm, although on a Thursday it stayed open an hour longer for exhibitions on the 6th floor.

The Musee d'Art Moderne is open from 11am to 9pm and has the same day closings as the Pompidou centre, whereas the BPI is open from midday to 10pm on weekdays and 11am until 10pm at weekends.

The centre is also accessible for those with disabilities with the entrance for them being on Rue du Renard is needed to be used, instead of the main entrance the piazza on Place Georges Pompidou.

Although there are also themed visits which are held here throughout the year in accordance to the different temporary exhibitions which are on display at the time as well as different workshops available.

Additionally there are also documentaries and films about the artists available in the lounge of the Museum of Modern Art on the fourth floor.

Also if you wish for an audio guide you can get one at the stand beside the bookshop in either English, French, German, Spanish or Italian.

Access to the centre for all the exhibitions and museums is valid for a whole day as well as giving you access to the panoramic views of the 6th floor. And for under 18s the permanent exhibitions of them museum are free, as well as being free for everyone on the first Sunday of every month.

There is also a panorama ticket you can buy if you are more interested in the view which can be seen, although for people under 18 it is free and those under the age of 26 who are a resident of the EU are also free, and only being €3 for those who do not fall into those categories make for a great way to see out over the rooftops of Paris and possible see some of the tourist attractions in Paris.

So if you are visiting for a holiday in Paris the Pompidou Centre is a great place to visit with just one of the many museums in Paris and other tourist attractions in Paris for you to visit, great for any age.

www.eutouring.com - Published by Kate Davis - European traveller and author of travel to guides to Paris holidays along with research for French monuments, tourist attractions, museums and much more by helping people to get the most out of a holiday in Paris.

Article Source: Kate_J_Davis

Famous Historical Places in France

Preparing for Your Paris Vacation

Paris, France is a vacation location that most people only dream of visiting. For those lucky enough to get there the options of what to see and visit are numerous. The history of France dates back to the 3rd century B.C. and many monuments and locations are still open to visitors today. It can be very difficult to figure out what all you need to see and where to begin. To make the most of your trip ensure that you see this list of famous historical places in France.

1. Notre Dame Cathedral- It took over 100 years to build this building that considered is one of the greatest examples of Gothic Art in the world. It offers magnificent views of Paris from the North Tower, stunning stained glass windows, beautiful antique chandeliers, statues, and gargoyles that surpass anything you have ever seen. This well maintained building is a must see when in Paris.

2. Eiffel Tower- One of the most well known structures in the world, it would be a crime not to stop by this sight. Whether you visit during the day to see the stunning views below from the top or visit at night to see this mesmorizing sight all lit up, it is an essential stop as you make your way through Paris.

3. Louvre Museum- Named one of the 28 places you must visit before you die by the Smithsonian Magazine this is home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and countless other pieces of priceless art. Built in 1793 to serve as the Royal Palace it boosts over fifteen acres of art. Make sure to factor in at least one day to stroll through this spectacular fortress.

4. Arc de Triomphe- Erected in 1806 at the request of Napoleon to serve as a tribute to the French army, it is the resting place of the Unknown Solider from World War I. Engraved on the top of the arch and inside are all the names of generals and wars fought. It offers what many believe to be the best view of Paris from the top and is considered to be right in the center of all the must sees in Paris.

5. Pere Lachaise Cemetery- While some may find it creepy to visit a cemetery this is a location that you should not miss. The lavishly designed crypts pay homage to countless famous figures including Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Jim Morrison of The Doors.

6. The Sorbonne University and the Latin Quarter- Founded in 1257 as a school to study theology it has had countless thinkers pass through its doors. Keep in mind that it is still a college and tours must be arranged beforehand. It is worth planning a visit to in order to fully understand all the history that it has housed in beautiful buildings.

7. Versailles Palace- A majestic palace that boosts electrifying water fountains and a 250 acres of manicured gardens. First mentioned in literature from 1038, it began as a country village and grew to house the courts and the royal family. Grand paintings, tapestries, furniture, and chandeliers remain. The gardens have been coined "the closest thing to heaven on Earth" due to their astounding beauty.

This is just a short list of some of the more historical places that you must visit while in Paris, but be aware there is so much more to see.

MyReviewsNow.net offers information regarding your Paris vacation. For more on flights to France, please visit us at MyReviewsNow.net.

Article Source: Cookie_Maxwell

Four Amazing Tourist Destinations for You

Going on holiday is a great way to relax and forget about the stresses of life even for just a week. The hard part about holidays is choosing an ideal place to go. This article highlights four places you must visit in your lifetime. Each of these places offers spectacular sceneries and there are numerous activities you can enjoy.

France 

France offers fable lands that offer world class fine wine and delicious foods that inspire many to return to these great lands. France offers amazing scenery characterized by ancient architecture, natural beauty and its rich history. Amongst the hidden treasures are hidden landscapes that mostly remain untouched as very few have discovered them. There are numerous cities which offer different sceneries. Visit Paris, the fashion capital and shop for authentic designer clothing and perfume. Enjoy art and culture at some of the best theatres where the past and present meet. There are numerous exhibitions and museums you can visit as well as old buildings that offer amazing architectural sceneries and history.

India 

Discover incredible India in ways you never thought imaginable. This country is the largest in the Indian sub-continent. India is not as easy to describe India because it has something different to offer every time. It is rich in culture and beliefs that are dominated by spiritual and religious beliefs. This is the one place you can go for mental, emotional and spiritual balance. The festivals in India are colorful and they are held at different times of the year. In the months of October and November you may be lucky enough to witness spectacular fireworks display as the Indians celebrate Diwali; the festival of lights. There are also other festivals that last for days and are absolutely amazing. You can visit India between February and March and experience the holi festival. It entails colorful displays of Indians taking part in watertight showering each other with colored powder water.

Italy 

There are very few places on earth that offer the combination Italy offers. Here, you find fine wine, amazing architecture, rich culture and delicious cuisines. These are reason enough for anyone to visit Italy. This county had contributed greatly to civilization in the west giving rise to writers, artists, thinkers, politicians and even saints. Traces of their great work are visible all over Italy in form of buildings and art works displayed all over this country. The history of Italy is told through Greek temples, roman ruins and the Etruscan museum. The beauty this county holds is simply phenomenal.

Paris

The city of Paris is one of the leading tourist destinations around the globe. This is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and this is evident from the sceneries it has. It is home to one of the tallest buildings in the world, the Eiffel tower. This is where you find the Notre -Dame Cathedral, world class hotels and designer stores. Being the capital of France, the beauty it possesses is unsurpassed. Regardless of what part of France you choose to explore; be it the historic, bourgeois, bohemian or fashion side, one this is true the city of lights (Paris) leave you enthralled.

Article Source: Wendy_Cale_Standish

OpenTour Bus Tours in Paris for Seeing the Many Monuments and Tourist Attractions

OpenTour is a firm which operates tour buses in Paris with different routes around the capital city but also run bus tours in other locations such as Marseille and Nice, within the Provence-Alpes Cote d'Azur region.

If you only have a small amount of time if you go for a holiday in Paris then one of the easiest and most convenient tours you can take is the OpenTour, allowing you to visit many places, which you may not see or discover otherwise.

The tour buses are large double decker buses with open tops to allow you to take advantage of the great views. The buses are also very easy to spot due to their bright yellow and green colour scheme which operate daily throughout the whole year around Paris.

The idea behind these bus tours in Paris is that you can buy a pass, jump into a bus and jump off as you wish, to see monuments, tourist attractions, museums and more that it stops at, and then when you wish jump back on another bus allowing you to visit many different places at your own pace and in fact the bus has over 50 different stops.

When using the L'OpenTour buses it does not only provide a great way to find and experience some of the incredible tourist attractions in Paris, it can also help you learn more with the commentary provided on the free set of headphones which are supplied with each ticket for the bus. The commentary obviously being available in French but also English, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese and Chinese.

One more additional benefit to the l'OpenTour buses is that the four different routes throughout Paris are all interconnected meaning you can jump off and join another route without any hassle or having to finish an individual tour at a time allowing you to see more around the city of Paris and go where you wish.

Although if you wish to also travel along the River Seine you're in luck, as the L'OpenTour is linked with the Batobus water bus which has eight stops allowing you to see monuments of Paris from a completely different angle as well as being able to buy a ticket which combines both of them to experience both ways.

There are many different passes, or tickets if you prefer to call them, which you can obtain while you are on holiday in Paris, although it is to be noted if you buy a ticket which lasts for more than one day that is has to be used over two or more consecutive days.

A one day pass can be brought which covers all four routes and is at a set price for an adult, and cheaper for children from the age of 4 to 11, and for under fours it is free.

As said above you can also get a pass which covers both the L'OpenTour and the Batobus water bus as well but for that you would need the Paris A la Carte Pass, which is a two day pass, or if you prefer a three day pass for a little extra.

Also as mentioned above there are different tour routes you can take, and even if the tour buses are easily spottable, each bus then has a different colour code on the windshield to identify which route it belongs to.

To begin with you have The Paris Grand Tour which starts at 13 Rue Auber, and has the colour code of green, which takes you around some of the most famous tourist attractions in Paris.

Firstly you can find the Musee du Parfum, the renowned Printemps to go shopping which is followed by the Palas Garnier Opera House, Place Vendome and eventually the Palais Royal and its gardens.

Afterwards the next stop starts at the Musee du Louvre which is famous for holding the Mona Lisa art work, where you can then also visit the Jardin des Tuileries Gardens, the I M Pei Pyramid of the Louvre, the Jeu de Paume and the triumphal arch also known as the Arc de Triomphe de Carrousel.

From there you can head to Pont Neuf which is the oldest bridge in Paris over the River Seine where you can get to see the Conciergerie and the Saint Chapelle which are found on the Ile de la Cite island, then to the amazing architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral and if you wish to go further you can head to the Ile Saint-Louis.

Following from there the tour heads to the Musee d'Orsay where you can also find the Place de la Concorde and also the oldest monuments of Paris; the Luxor Obelisk and the Musee Orangerie.

The bus then takes you down the Champs Elysees Avenue where there are three different stops which begins with the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais, followed by the Avenue Montaigne and the Metro station called George V which is close to The Lido - a famous cabaret in Paris that features the Bluebell Girls, the next stop being on to the Arc de Triomphe and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

From there you can venture to the Jardins du Trocadero where you can experience the Palais de Chaillot and its museums in Paris, and the incredible view towards the Eiffel Tower.

On the note of the Eiffel Tower, easily one of the most well known and famous landmarks of Paris, the next stop is just that, where not only can you see the great monument you can also see the River Seine, the Champ de Mars, Musee du Quai Branly and tour boats.

Following on you can go towards Les Invalides which is where the Tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte I is and several museums including but not limiting to Musee Rodin within the Hotel Biron, the Musee de l'Armee and more.

Afterwards the tour takes you to the Rue Saint-Honore and then finally to Place de la Madeleine with the Eglise de la Madeleine church, finishing the tour circuit after a very extensive and unmissable trip, but yet this is only one of the routes the tour buses can take you on.

Another route, Saint-Germain Tour around the Montparnasse area, with the colour code orange starts at 4 Rue du Petit-Pont in the Latin Quarter. The first stop being at the Luxembourg Gardens and the Musee du Luxembourg, with the Pantheon not far away.

Further on you can find the Observatoire and the Musee Zadkine, yet not too far away you can also experience the amazing Catacombes. But then you can continue to the Tour Montparnasse that is the only skyscraper with incredible views and features the highest restaurant in Paris, plus the tour stop is additionally close to Musee Bourdelle.

At this point you can always swap routes to one of the other three as you arrive at Les Invalides which also houses Musee de Plans Reliefs, or you can go on and continue the Saint-Germain area with the Musee Maillol then onto towards a different area of the Latin Quarter with the Thermes de Cluny, the Musee National du Moyen-Age and Arenes de Lutece, the Roman Arena.

Another route is the Montmartre - Grands Boulevards Tour which heads around the Montmartre area of Paris and is another great tour which is identified by yellow on the windshield of the l'OpenTour buses and starts at 13 Rue Auber an then towards the first stop where you can find the Moulin Rouge with the famous red windmill.

The next stop takes you to the Funicular that takes you up to the Place du Tertre famous for its artists, the Sacre Coeur Basilica and the Espace Dali museum is nearby, but to continue on with the journey you next see the Gare du Nord train station which is where the Eurostar arrives, with the Musee du Cristal also near.

Following on it takes you to the Republique and then the Grands Boulevards where Musee Grevin waxwork museum is found, then tour continues on to the Opera Garnier, followed by Place Vendome and finally to Madeleine and its church.

The Bastille - Bercy tour route goes by the colour of Blue and starts at the Notre Dame Cathedral, followed by stopping at the Petit-Pont in the Latin Quarter near Eglise Saint-Severin, which is where you can also change to the Montparnasse Saint-Germain tour route, or orange route.

If you follow on the original route you will stop next at Musee de la Prefecture de Police, next; the Institute du Monde Arab and the Pavillon de l'Arsenal. Afterwards it goes onto the Place de la Bastille and the new opera house the Opera Bastille.

Continue on and you will see the Gare de Lyon train station and the Viaduc des Arts, later on you will see the Gare d'Austerlitz and Jardin des Plantes, which is where Musee National d'Histoire Naturelle can be found as well, not forgetting that Arenes de Lutece and the Therms de Cluny are also near.

After a bit you will also see the museum Maison Victor Hugo dedicated to the writer who wrote the Hunchback of Notre Dame, as well as the Colonne de Juillet or July Column as it is also known, followed by the Marais area, Place des Vosges, the Rue de Rivoli and the Musee Carnavalet.

This tour route also has a close stop to Musee Picasso and the Hotel de Sully, and finally it finishes at Hotel de Ville close by to the Pompidou Centre.

But not only can you swap between those magnificent routes there are also the opportunity to be able to catch a special offer which OpenTour sometimes provides, such as getting a pass to visit Disneyland Paris as well as the bus routes, allowing you to make the best of both for an affordable cost.

Additionally, Paris is also known as the 'City of lights', and for a good reason! As during the festive season the whole city is covered in amazing lights; which for the very occasion from nearly the start of December to January this bus tour in Paris gives you a Christmas Lights Tour when night falls to allow you to see the many different and unique side of Paris while it is lit up. But due to its popularity, and the limited seats reservations are normally made in advance.

So as it can be seen there are very many different routes to help you spend the best of your time while on holiday in Paris to see the many museums, places and tourist attractions in Paris and more, with commentary in many languages to help enjoy your time, especially if you only have a short time to spend in the city.

Published by Kate Davis - European traveller and author of travel to guides to Paris holidays along with research for French monuments, tourist attractions, museums and much more by helping people to get the most out of a holiday in Paris. - tourist attractions in Paris

Article Source: Kate_J_Davis

 

Palais De La Decouverte Science Museum at the Grand Palais in Paris

The Palais de la Decouverte is a science museum found within the Grand Palais in the heart of Paris which has a very different, yet unique, way of showing and allowing people to discover science to help everyone understand it.

The history of the Palais de la Decouverte is a somewhat unlikely beginning, with the French physicist, Jean Perrin, who won a Nobel prize for his work on the atom, thought up the idea of a unique museum. And although his envisions of the museum was only meant to be a temporary exhibition for the World Fair in 1937, the amazing success of his experiments being performed in front of the public as well as letting visitors take part, it was decided to be changed into a permanent science museum, so many more could enjoy the science and learn.

Nowadays the museum in Paris stays with the same ideas and approach that Perrin wanted to achieve with his idea, to allow many people to access and gain an understanding of any type of science, even those without much prior knowledge of science to the general public.

The Palais de la Decouverte gives many different opportunities and different ways to understand the Earth and the things around us by experimenting, observing and evening interpreting real phenomena.

The museum also takes excellent use of the facilities and things it has to hand by managing to create a solid foundation and link between young scientists, post-graduate assistants and even to help researches teachers and more to help develop their communication skills, scientific findings and improve their knowledge, and help the link between them and the general public.

If you wish to visit the museum when on holiday in Paris you will find both a welcoming atmosphere as well as a unique one, where you can find many amazing experiments and demonstrations taking place to help you feel part of science from the minute you enter the museum.

Also for those who are not as knowledgeable in the science area this museum in Paris works with the visitors by connecting research scientists and scientific explainers so they can explain as they go along what is happening in many different scenarios to help maintain an understanding of what is going on and to help visitors learn.

There are also many different areas and sections to explore around at your own leisure to see and understand, ranging form but not just including space and meteorology, electrostatics, nuclear energy, man and his food, thermodynamics, electronics, radio astronomy, computer science and much more, not forgetting the temporary exhibitions which also take place during the year for even more variety.

And yet there's more; within the Grand Palais and the Palais de la Decouverte, the Planetarium which consists of a 15 meter diameter dome from the company Zeiss than reproduces the star-filled night with exceptional quality, allowing you to see and experience galactic and even extra galactic objects, celestial phenomena, view other planets and much more which is just one of the great tourist attractions in Paris.

The Planetarium has set shows throughout the day which last about 45 minutes, with a speaker to provide an introduction to astronomy and explain different aspects of the universe, which always start with the view of the sky as can be seen that very same night, which if you are lucky and it is a clear night you might just be able to!

In addition to the fantastic works and exhibitions when you look back at the history of the Grand Palais there was the idea for a café, and recently that has been realised, so you can have a break and have a snack such as a salad, sandwich, baguette as well as something for those with a sweeter tooth like cheese cake, muffins and cookies. But not forgetting they also serve both hot and cold beverages such as coffee, juices and more.

Also in addition to all of that, since 2010 the Palais de la Decouverte has been a part of the Universcience group, meaning it is now linked with the Cite des Sciences et de l'Industrie which is the largest science museum in Europe, and one of the most well known museums in Paris which is within the Parc de la Villette.

The science museum is part of the Grand Palais that is found on the Avenue des Champs Elysees in the 8th Arrondissement of Paris, opening from all days except for a Monday, from 9:30am to 6pm and on a Sunday which the times change to 10am to 7pm. This does not include French National holidays, eg 1st May and 14th July, where the museum is also closed. And this cafe in Paris as we mentioned before opens at the same times as the museum.

Due to the situation of the museum it is very easy to access the museum from the RER station at the Invalides stop on line C, nearby bus stops which include numbers 28, 42, 63, 72, 80, and 93 not forgetting the bus tours in Paris which also stop nearby or at the museum.

Published by Kate Davis - European traveller and author of travel to guides to Paris holidays along with research for French monuments, tourist attractions, museums and much more by helping people to get the most out of a holiday in Paris. - Holiday in Paris

Article Source: Kate_J_Davis

 

Quirky Ideas for Your Paris Holiday

As you may already be aware if you've opted to stay in one of its boutique hotels, Paris is a city that rewards those who look for the unique. Read on for some of its best-kept secrets.


Secret Museums

Click and Buy

They may not, strictly speaking, be secret - you will find them listed in your guidebook - but some of Paris's smaller, more idiosyncratic museums are often overlooked in favour of giants such as the Louvre. Lovers of eclectic collections will find a gem in the Marais district - the Musee Carnavalet, which mixes history, politics, art and architecture with its fascinating assemblage of curios and objects d'art. They include a sculpture of the Bastilles, cut into a single brick taken from the stormed fortress itself. For those who want something very different, the Musee des Egouts is a world away from boutique hotels. Paris has a highly sophisticated sewer system - which has actually played a significant role in the city's socio-political history - and this museum takes you underground to see for yourself.

Canal Walks, Carriage Rides, Beach Strolls

If you have coach fatigue, there are some delightful alternative ways to tour the City of Light. Following any of its picturesque canals, shaded by broad leafy trees, is a rewarding experience: you'll see places off the beaten track, pass old buildings and bridges, meeting other intrepid flaneurs as you go. The city being what it is, it won't be too long before you find a little café to duck into, where you can watch life go by. For a different experience, if you visit in summer, be sure to check out the Paris Plages - long stretches of the Seine's bank converted into beaches, giving you a taste of the French seaside hardly any distance from your boutique hotels. Paris is also, famously, the city of romance, and if you are visiting with a special someone, there are few more memorable ways to see the city than from a horse-drawn carriage - just be sure to book ahead, as these tours are popular!

Out of the Pages of Books

From pavement cafes, to high garrets, to the balconies of boutique hotels, Paris is full of nooks and crannies where the literary-minded can curl up with their novels - or their notebooks. Paris has inspired countless writers from around the world, and it's not hard to see why. If you find yourself walking the cobbled streets and dreaming of following in the footsteps of Dickens, Hemingway, Orwell, Stein, or the many others who penned great works after walking the same beat, head over to the Shakespeare & Company bookshop in the Latin quarter. The downstairs area is considered by many to be the city's best English-language bookshop, while upstairs is a library of old tomes where you can browse and read for hours. Compose a story on their typewriter and add it to the wall, or attend one of their weekly writing workshops - whatever you do, you're bound to find inspiration here.

Looking for Hyde Park hotels, London? Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at Hyde Park hotels, London and a selection of unique four and five star hotels around the world.

Article Source: Roberta_Stuart

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Blending Into the Cultural Side of Meribel

Meribel is a village of quaint antiquity, nestled delicately into the jaw-droppingly beautiful French Alps. Whilst first and foremost Meribel is a ski resort, its attractions are not solely ski orientated.

When exploring from your hotel or chalet, Meribel offers many locations that can help a visitor learn of the town's cultural past. If nothing else, these cultural locations present an opportunity for those members of the family who desire a less active experience than skiing all day.

Exploring the culture

It may come as a surprise that a village as young as Meribel could have developed its own culture. Perhaps it is the culture of those who frequently ski, forming the care-free spirit that lingers in the air. Or perhaps there's more to it, suggesting something that is born from the very creation of the village. Being a village of such small size, from your hotel or chalet, Meribel's museum (Musee Des Allues) is only a short distance away. This museum contains the historical side of the village, whilst also covering the origins of chalets.

Early origins

Chalets have a history that far precedes that of the ski resorts. Though they are now seen as the common accommodation throughout the Alps, and other locations such as Austria, they were originally used by farmers in the production of dairy products through different times of the year. They have always been seasonal, as inhabitants would leave them during times of winter and travel into the low valleys. Nowadays, with all variations of a chalet, Meribel offers this 'seasonal' property throughout the year, utilising both the simple beauty and practicality of the structure.

History of the village

The museum also covers such things as the origins of the village itself. To say that the culture is one that appeals to skiers is certainly not wrong, for the village itself was constructed with the intent of creating a ski-resort away from the turbulent conditions of the 1930s-1940s. Since then it has of course grown to what it is today, but throughout its brief history its culture has been formed by its most frequent visitors - skiers.

Modern Meribel

To see how the local residents live, you can also visit the bars, the shops and of course, the church. Both the bars and restaurants are imbued with their own quaint charm and characteristic, influenced by the same serene but friendly profile that the rest of the village shares. Many of its structures have been in the village since its creation, and the architecture all shares the same fundamental design, with stone, wood and slated roofs.

Lastly, and perhaps more obviously, to really get to grips with the culture outside your chalet, Meribel requires that you ski. The original intention for the village was to serve as a ski resort, so to really embrace its cultural side you must embark on its age-old tradition of getting out there and skiing. And of course, in this same vein it is the village's culture of warmth, hospitality, friendliness and après-ski that awaits you after your day-long adventure on the slopes.

Enjoy the culture of Meribel - modern and not so modern!

Earl Knudsen is Marketing Manager for Alpine Answers, a specialist ski travel agency, tour operator, and booking service offering bonded package holidays at a ski chalet Meribel and other tailor-made itineraries. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday in a ski chalet, Meribel is an ideal location.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Earl_Knudsen

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The Louvre: Art Tours for Non-Artists

Ask any artist and he'll tell you that there is no other city that embodies art like Paris. Almost everything you see is quite picture-perfect - from the sidewalk cafes and the confectioners, to the bakeshops and boutique hotels; Paris just seems to be an artist's dream!

No Escaping Art in Paris

But what if you're not quite one of those people who can name the painter of a masterpiece from ten metres away? What if you can't tell a Manet from a Monet, or a Rubens from a Reuben sandwich? Not to worry, it's no reason to stay huddled up in shame inside those avant-garde boutique hotels - Paris is one of those places that's conducive to a crash course in art history, art appreciation, and just plain art!

This lovely city is a treasure trove of masterpieces. For some reason, it seems that the Muses have made it their headquarters - almost everything is inspired. From the quaint shops to the boutique hotels, Paris seems to be a place that culturally promotes the development of a keen sense of aesthetics in everyone. If you'd like to soak up some of this kind of culture, there are a few places you could start, and top of the list is the Louvre!

It's Okay To Feel Like a Tourist Sometimes

Even if you're not artistically inclined, the world's largest and most visited museum is probably somewhere on the top of your list of places to visit - after checking into one of those quaint boutique hotels. Paris' famous repository of masterpieces from all over the world is practically a city within a city. Even an entire weekend inside the Louvre wouldn't be enough to fully appreciate and absorb the collections housed within its famed walls.

The truth is, it's just as easy (and quite understandable) to get as dazed inside the Louvre as it is to get lost in those quirky side streets if you happen to take a wrong turn in the city. The Louvre is in a constant state of flux, and even if you've been in the museum before, chances are that you'll find new additions on a return visit.

Art Appreciation, the Parisian Way

Start with a healthy breakfast first at one of those quaint cafes around your boutique hotels - Paris's gem of a museum can take up all day (or more) and you'll need the energy! While there are places to get refreshments, like the Richelieu, Denon or Mollien cafes nearby, a quaint sidewalk café is, well, more Parisian. Now you're fortified for the some 35,000 works of art and artefacts on show! Off you go!

Remember that the Louvre has eight departments housing art collections over three wings: Denon, Sully and Richelieu. You can start by entering the atrium under the glass pyramid where each wing has its own entrance, then pass internally from one to another.

Make sure you go into the glass-roofed sculpture courts on the ground floor of Richelieu, with French sculpture below and Italian Renaissance pieces in the Denon wing. Then perhaps move on to the Grand Galerie and Salle de la Joconde - where the Mona Lisa awaits. From here, proceed wherever the urge and your feet care to take you - for as long as you have the time and energy before the walk back to your cosy boutique hotels. Paris' art experience at the Louvre will leave you feeling inspired yourself and you may even feel like coming back the next day!

If you're looking for boutique hotels, Paris has a wonderful selection. Roberta Stuart is the Travel Manager for World Hotels, a company offering the best rooms at a Paris boutique hotel and a selection of unique and four and five star hotels around the world.

Article Source: Roberta_Stuart

 

Ten Tips for a Trouble Free Paris Taxi Experience

If you're visiting Paris for more than a few days, you will most likely have an occasion to use a taxi. Maybe you'll be using a taxi for your Paris Airport transfer - travelling from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport to the Paris city center. Or maybe you'll want to splurge for a night when you visit the Paris Opera. The Parisian taxi system is heavily regulated, so these tips will help to ensure that you're Paris taxi experiences don't turn into Paris taxi adventures! 

1. Know how to find an unoccupied taxi - Spotted from down the street, it's not always easy to tell if a taxi is occupied or not. Luckily, the "Taxi" light on top of the car tells you everything you need to know. The old system (which will be phased out by July 2012) uses a white plastic sign that is either lit or unlit. IF the light is lit (yellowish light), the taxi is unoccupied and you may stop it. If the light is off, the car is occupied, the driver is on a call, or the driver's shift has ended. The new system, beginning in 2011 uses a white plastic sign with a green light (unoccupied) or a red light (occupied).
2. Taxi Stands - In Paris, certain locations throughout the cities are set up as taxi stands. Whenever you're ready to get a taxi, simply go to a main thoroughfare and look for a sign next to the street that says "Taxis". On busy streets during busy hours, you may find a few people already waiting. The rule is first come, first served, so locals will not treat you kindly if you try to jump the queue. Taxis are prohibited from taking on passengers within 50m of a Taxi Stand. So if you are having problems getting a free taxi to stop for you, but they all stop at the end of the street. Take a look and see if there is a Taxi Stand close by.
3. Extra Fees - Taxis are allowed to charge you an extra fee for certain services. Pickups at train stations, airports allow a supplement of up to 1€. Each suitcase put in the trunk (over more than 5kg) maybe be charged 1€. Animals and a fourth passenger may be charged a supplement.
4. Busy Nights and Rainy Days - Be aware that the number of taxis available is regulated and is not necessarily the number that would be available in a free market. On rainy days during tourist season (April - October) in touristy areas and on weekends on the Champs-Elysees after 2AM, it may be very difficult to find an unoccupied taxi.
5. Use a radio taxi - If you are in an out-of-the way location, consider calling a taxi. You'll pay a little bit more, but you'll also avoid very long waits in the case of a busy night or a rainy day during tourist season. If you're in a hotel the reception can call the taxi for you. If not, you can use a service like Taxi G7 or Taxis Bleues.
6. Pay in Cash - Most taxis don't accept credit cards, so be prepared to pay in cash (Euros). A tip of approximately 10% is standard.
7. Avoid unlicensed taxis - Legal taxis in Paris have a TAXI sign on the roof. From time to time in touristy locations and at the airport you will be approached by people asking if you need a taxi. These offers should be declined. Legitimate taxis stay in their cars and wait for passengers at the taxi stand (including at the airport). The unlicensed taxis could charge you much more than the normal fare.
8. Write your destination address on a piece of paper - Many taxi drivers in Paris only speak French. So unless your French language skills are very good, in order to avoid misunderstandings, it's best to write your destination address on a piece of paper and hand it to the driver
9. Know the fare system. Parisian taxis charge three different fares: A,B, and C. The A fare is the cheapest, it is valid during the daytime, inside the city limits. The 'B' fare is more expensive, it is valid during evening hours and on weekends inside the city limits, and at night outside the city. The 'C' fare is the most expensive, it is valid outside the city limits and inside the city limits at night on weekends
10. Take a ride along the river Seine late at night. Driving along the Seine while Paris sleeps is a good way to experience the City of Light. Late one night, between 3am and 5am, take advantage of the opportunity to see Paris in a new way. Ask the taxi driver to drive you along the Seine between Bastille and Place de la Concorde. You'll be glad you did!

Joshua Green has lived in Paris for over ten years and writes about travel.

www.parisnet.com

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Article Source: Joshua_Green

 

Mountain Biking in La Plagne

In the summer months the Paradiski region of France takes on a completely different scene, the crystal white ski slopes give way to lush green trails and mountain biking is rife. Within Paradiski there are numerous mountain biking areas. Here we look at mountain biking in La Plagne.

Over the last 5 years, La Plagne has worked hard to create a reputation for world-class mountain biking. La Plagne is a fantastic holiday spot for anyone interested in mountain biking with over 200km of dedicated mountain bike trails. These winding trails are comprised of 18 different routes some of which can run for up to 22km. Probably the most spectacular of these sees you descend from the summit of the Roche de Mio at a height of 2700m all the way down into the villages of Monchavin and Les Coches which sit at 1250m. Overall there are a total of 8 downhill trails, 6 endro as well as 4 cross -country trails.

So now you may be thinking wow that 1450m descent sounds amazing but the trail up sounds near impossible! Don't worry, during the summer months there are a number of ski lifts open to mountain bikers.

The following lifts are open to bikers during the summer:

• Télésiège de la Roche
• Télécabine de la Roche de Mio
• Funiplagne Grande Rochette
• Télésiège de Montchavin
• Télésiège de Plan Bois
• Télésiège de Montalbert
• Télésiège du Fornelet
• Télécabine de Champagny
• Vanoise Express

If you are planning to stay in some of the beautiful La Plagne chalets during your holiday, Les Coches and Montchavin are fantastic bases for mountain biking as they offer access to all of La Plagne's biking trails but also, via the Vanoise Express, the 93 km of runs in Les Arcs.

Monchavin and Montalbert are areas of La Plagne with 3 enduro trails each. It's easier to access these trails by using the Télécabine de Champagny as the cable car will take you to the start of 3 tracks that wind down through the Piste des Bois to Champagny. You can either head down towards the Col de Forcle or Mont de la Guerre. There are also a few beautiful trails alongside the Doron river, these can range from nice relaxing easy rides to challenging those who enjoy a little white knuckle rides. Montchavin also has a new bike "fun park" that is open to everyone.

If you fancy a trip to La Plagne to experience the spectacular mountain biking for yourself then visit www.snowchateaux.co.uk for a fantastic range of La Plagne chalets.

Article Source: Kriss_Davies

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Top Beach Resorts of France

By John Downes

There are many reasons to visit the wonderful country of France. If it is pure relaxation and abandonment at a sunny coastal location you are looking for, then look no further! The North, West and South of France provide wonderful beach resorts where you can enjoy the sun and sand without a care in the world. Read on for more...

Resorts of North Western France

The most popular northwestern resorts of France include the Caen region, which is lapped by the waters of the English Channel. This region holds an important place in French history - much of the area was part of the WW2 Allied landings and the area is dotted with historical landmarks relating to these events in the turbulent European military history. The beaches around the area of Point du Hoc are pretty poignant - some the D-Day landings took place here and so many young men died here fighting for the liberation of Europe during the Allied invasion of June 1944. Many of the beaches in this region such as Calvados represent a pilgrimage for people who lost loved ones in the conflict with Nazi Germany.

Arromanches is a pleasant seaside town which is a popular visiting place for those in interested in the Allied Landings at the Normandy region - this town was right at the heart of the Allied operation. The beaches at Omaha, Juno and Utah are a must to sample the terrain that greeted the landing of the Allied forces.

Some of the more popular beach resort towns include Saint Malo, Le Touquet, Trouville and Deauville. The white cliff faces and the strange rock formations around the Alabaster Coast are well worth checking out.

Other villages included Etretat and Fécamp.

Resorts of Western France

The western area is dominated by the beautiful Brittany region. There is a wonderful combination of white sandy beaches and delightful rocky coves to explore. Brittany has a striking coastline that is woven by the Atlantic waves. There is a notable Celtic influence on this region. The beaches and coastlines make it a perfect area for those interested in surfing and deep sea diving!

Some of the most prominent costal resorts in Brittany include:

· The Emerald Coast (Cóte d'Emeraude), which is the area near Dinard to the north east
· La Cóte de Granit Rose to the north of the Cotes d'Armor
· Western Brittany and Finistere
· The Crozon Peninsula
· The Gulf of Morbihan
· Vendée Region (especially La Baule, which is a long fine sand beach loved especially by families;
Bretignolles-sur-Mer, a great Vendée surfing area and Pornichet beach
· Atlantic coastal beach areas such La Rochelle, St Martin de Ré
· The Coté de Beauté area, to the north of the Gironde estuary
· Biarritz - the popular and bustling town on the Atlantic coast in southwest France (in the Atlantic-Pyrenees department of Aquitaine). This is a popular area for surfers; La Grande Plage is the main beach here.

Resorts of Southern France

One of the most famous beach regions in France is the Languedoc area. It borders the Mediterranean Sea and borders Spain. Languedoc has several quality sandy beaches. Some of the main resorts are:

· Saint Cyprien
· Cape D'Agde (Note that part of this beach has a Naturist section)
· The charming town of Montpellier and the nearby resort of La Grande Motte
· The town of Sète, which is known as the Venice of the Languedoc region.
· The Med Coast in Languedoc is known as La Coté Vermeille and has resorts such as Collioure and Argeles-sur-Mer.

If you want to experience a resort with all of the glitz and glamour then the Cote d'Azur is the place to go to - also known as the French Riviera. The capital city is Nice and the other two main resorts are St Tropez and Cannes. It is the diversity of the region that illustrates how enticing this region is - you can enjoy sandy beaches and stunning Alpine scenery. The Riviera offers stunning coastal views, great all year round weather, and wonderful tourist attractions. The Cote d'Azur goes to the east from Antibes through Cannes, Monaco/Monte Carlo and Villefranche-sur-Mer. The main resorts here are as follows:

· Nice is the largest resort on the Cote d'Azur -and has something for everyone - marvelous beaches, history, wonderful buildings.
· St Tropez beaches - la Baie de Pampelonne to the south of St Tropez, Pamelonne beach, la Plage des Salins and Plage de la Moutte
· Toulon - Mourillon beach
· Sainte-Maxime - this south facing beach is warm all year round!
· Cannes beaches
· Antibes
· Villefranche-sur-Mer
· Menton - a coastal town on the Cote d'Azur, a few kilometres from the Italian border. Known for its lemon festival, there is a fine beach here.

Hope you enjoyed our guide to the top beach resorts of France. Have we tempted you to take a coastal resort vacation soon? The best way to explore these areas at your leisure is to avail of a top quality rental car at an affordable price, so visit our Car Hire France page.

John writes for Novacarhire.com - an independent car hire reservation website where you can book low cost car hire at over 5,000 locations worldwide.