Paris
We visited Paris for New Year 2002, the first time that the family had
been away from home for New Year. I'd fantasied about Paris,
but can only say that unusually, it actually exceeded my
expectations. It was really grand, awe inspiring and
captivating. Even the Eiffel tower was more spectacular than in the
photos. You must be patient if you wish to visit, we must have queued
for at least two hours. It was the 1st of January and there was
quite a hassle as visitors could only pay the entrance fee in Euros, they
wouldn't accept French Francs.
The food was delicious and reasonably priced if you chose from the set
menu. However as non smokers it was a bit offputting as there
were very few restaurants with non smoking areas and this did rather detract
from my enjoyment of the food.
The Metro is regular, reliable and cheap. I'd been warned
about pickpockets and I was wearing a shoulder bag across my body with
the opening flap facing my body. Despite this my husband observed
a guy with his hand in my bag, and he shouted at the would be
thief but the thief was so blase, he stood and shouted that my
husband was mad. They are real experts, so be very careful.
The French have an undeserved reputation for being rude and unhelpful.
I did attempt to speak in French and I think this was
appreciated, as I found most of the Parisians to be very friendly and
polite.
For those with children, our kids certainly gave EuroDisney full marks.
Again I would recommend some leisurely strolling around in Paris, there
are lots of interesting little stalls along the Seine, plenty of museums to
wander round.
Monmartre is a bit of tourist trap but nevertheless
interesting to watch the various artists at work.
I would definitely add Paris to the must see list of European cities.
It is a good choice as a city break from most of the UK as
most regional airports have direct flights. There are even flights to
Beavais (one hour north of Paris) with Ryan Air. There is the alternative
of the Eurostar for those in the south east.
It was lovely to be there for New Year but you would probably be able
to see more if you avoided public holidays during your visit.
Overall:
| Ambience | 9 |
| Food | 9 |
| Culture | 9 |
| Hotels | 7 |
| Public Transport | 9 |
Flights with Ryan Air, Glasgow Prestwick to Paris Beavais,
£40
return per person including tax.
Accommodation: There is a great selection in Paris, most very
reasonable prices around New Year. Hotelclub has double/twin
rooms including tax and breakfast, in the Republic/Gare du Nord area
from around 75 euros. You will pay more if you wish to be in
central Paris. However with such a cheap efficient Metro it's
no need to stay right in the centre if you're looking for value for money,
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