If you want to be the self-assigned guide when you and your group decide to fly and enjoy Paris, France tourist attractions, you might want to go through a short course that will help you learn more about this amazing European country and its equally unique capital. This means that you must be knowledgeable about historical sites and landmarks, as well as other important places such as hotels, city parks and restaurants found within the city.
You certainly want to impress your friends; hence, you must possess essential knowledge about the best French hotels, eateries and museums. Needless to say, you should always be a step ahead of the pack if you want to lead them as their tour guide and introduce the many tourist attractions in Paris, France. It is definitely one great challenge. But if you do it right and impress your friends well enough, who knows? You might eventually become a professional Paris tour guide yourself. Best of luck on such an endeavor!
Here is a nicely shot clear-day clip on the Champs Elysees and Arche de Triomphe, two of the most popular Paris France tourist attractions among locals and international visitors from all around the world.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Enjoying My Cruise on River Seine
Undoubtedly, the most popular river in Paris and perhaps the whole of France is the Seine River, also known to be one of the top attractions of the city. Cruise on River Seine is not without passing by the charming Eiffel Tower and other beautiful and enchanting spots such as the Place de la Concorde. If you want to have a peak of the English Channel, it is found on the mouth of the river. You might wonder about the length of the river; it is actually more than 480 mile long or 776 km long and has an elevation of about 1,545 feet.
One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower, which you will certainly see on your river cruise. In fact, it is one of the first structures that you will lay your eyes on even before the cruise starts. We went up the barge at around 9PM, and it was exactly the time when the lights of the Eiffel Tower sparkled, rendering me in awe with the magnificent show of lights that I witnessed.
I had the chances to go aboard one of those Bateaux Mouche, which literally means fly boats. A typical boat is wide and two decked. It provides tourists and visitors a grand view of the city as it goes along the cruise on River Seine. One can even enjoy a romantic Seine dinner during the cruise. There is a notion that all boats that go along the Seine are called Bateaux Mouches; actually it is but one of the most well-known operators of the barges.
It was a cold Sunday evening when we rushed to the port where the Bateaux Mouches boats wait for passengers to come in and occupy all the seats in the barge before they can start cruising along the River. While waiting for more passengers, we decided to have our seats at the top deck of the barge. It was already cold - too cold for comfort. The temperature was 8 degrees, but I decided to brave the elements and insisted that the group moves to the top of the barge.
Actually, I wanted a better look of the sights and so I thought it is a must that we position ourselves at the top deck. In fact, I was very much enthralled by the view of the Eiffel Tower that brightly lit up in a blanket of orange illumination as whitish lights around it sparkled. Tour de Eiffel was the first structure that I saw in Paris straight from Charles de Gaulle Airport. It likewise captured my attention at the Seine River cruise. Definitely, it is one Parisian landmark that I will always remember.
What are bateaux boats? These are considered as popular means of enjoying attractions at the city of Paris. Actually they were originally steamers that were displayed in the 1867 Exhibition. Today, like the one that I rode when I was in the city, many of them can easily accommodate tens of tourists. All have open-air, upper decks where most wanted to stay for a much better view of the city.
Most barge cruises on River Seine include commentaries on the beautiful sights. However, it was confusing in my case since the commentary was not clear about which structures were being referred to as the barge coasts through the river. Anyway, our Bateaux Mouches cruise lasted for about an hour. While we didn’t eat while on board as we had a quick dinner; our boat, like any others, offered Seine dinner during the cruise.
Apart from the Eiffel Tower, other historical and famous structures, building and landmarks include Montaigne, Champs-Elysées, La Défense, Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Place de la Concorde and L ‘Opéra just to mention some in the long list of great places. The Seine River continues it stretch to the River Shannon and Yonne River. Further still down the stream, you will reach the Normandy beaches where a lot of recreational and river activities can be enjoyed.
Needless to say, the city of Paris has a great and awesome list of historical structures, building and landmarks to view and enjoy as you travel on a cruise on the Seine River. If you are a first-time traveler to Paris, it is helpful that you check the Internet and familiarized yourself with all the top spots along the river.
Likewise, you must get hold of Paris tourism pamphlets on Seine River cruise to better help you in planning your tour of the river.
Cruises on the Seine River
When enjoying one of those romantic cruises on the Seine River, which I had during one of the cold wintry evening of November, of course any tourist should not look any farther as all the great landmarks and structures are ready for you to view and enjoy as you go down the river.One of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower, which you will certainly see on your river cruise. In fact, it is one of the first structures that you will lay your eyes on even before the cruise starts. We went up the barge at around 9PM, and it was exactly the time when the lights of the Eiffel Tower sparkled, rendering me in awe with the magnificent show of lights that I witnessed.
I had the chances to go aboard one of those Bateaux Mouche, which literally means fly boats. A typical boat is wide and two decked. It provides tourists and visitors a grand view of the city as it goes along the cruise on River Seine. One can even enjoy a romantic Seine dinner during the cruise. There is a notion that all boats that go along the Seine are called Bateaux Mouches; actually it is but one of the most well-known operators of the barges.
Cruise on River Seine via Bateaux Mouches
It was a cold Sunday evening when we rushed to the port where the Bateaux Mouches boats wait for passengers to come in and occupy all the seats in the barge before they can start cruising along the River. While waiting for more passengers, we decided to have our seats at the top deck of the barge. It was already cold - too cold for comfort. The temperature was 8 degrees, but I decided to brave the elements and insisted that the group moves to the top of the barge.
Actually, I wanted a better look of the sights and so I thought it is a must that we position ourselves at the top deck. In fact, I was very much enthralled by the view of the Eiffel Tower that brightly lit up in a blanket of orange illumination as whitish lights around it sparkled. Tour de Eiffel was the first structure that I saw in Paris straight from Charles de Gaulle Airport. It likewise captured my attention at the Seine River cruise. Definitely, it is one Parisian landmark that I will always remember.
What are bateaux boats? These are considered as popular means of enjoying attractions at the city of Paris. Actually they were originally steamers that were displayed in the 1867 Exhibition. Today, like the one that I rode when I was in the city, many of them can easily accommodate tens of tourists. All have open-air, upper decks where most wanted to stay for a much better view of the city.
Awesome Structures along the River Seine
Most barge cruises on River Seine include commentaries on the beautiful sights. However, it was confusing in my case since the commentary was not clear about which structures were being referred to as the barge coasts through the river. Anyway, our Bateaux Mouches cruise lasted for about an hour. While we didn’t eat while on board as we had a quick dinner; our boat, like any others, offered Seine dinner during the cruise.
Apart from the Eiffel Tower, other historical and famous structures, building and landmarks include Montaigne, Champs-Elysées, La Défense, Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Place de la Concorde and L ‘Opéra just to mention some in the long list of great places. The Seine River continues it stretch to the River Shannon and Yonne River. Further still down the stream, you will reach the Normandy beaches where a lot of recreational and river activities can be enjoyed.
Brightly-lit Saint-Michael Bridge
Along the river, you will also have the chance to enjoy seeing the brightly-lighted and decorated bridges. One of the most popular bridges in the stretch of the river is the Saint-Michael Bridge or the Pont Saint-Michel, named after the Saint-Michel Chapel. This beautiful bridge structure is near Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris. In fact, it is one of the most admired bridges along the Seine. When lit up during the evenings, it displays all the colors in the rainbow – blue, gold, green, orange, peach. Saint-Michael Bridge links Place Saint-Michel, which is situated on the river’s left side to the Île de la Cité.Checking the Seine River Spots Online
Needless to say, the city of Paris has a great and awesome list of historical structures, building and landmarks to view and enjoy as you travel on a cruise on the Seine River. If you are a first-time traveler to Paris, it is helpful that you check the Internet and familiarized yourself with all the top spots along the river.
Likewise, you must get hold of Paris tourism pamphlets on Seine River cruise to better help you in planning your tour of the river.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
November 21 2010. Next stop of our Paris, France tour - Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris, or simply the Notre Dame Cathedral Paris. Certainly a must-see site for every tourist, I consider visiting the church as one of the most important things to do in Paris, France.
I was eager to hear the Filipino Mass but unfortunately it was scheduled at 3PM, the time when we would still be at the apartment for lunch. We had no choice but to settle for a much later time, 6:30 PM.
Nonetheless, this was a mass that I was looking forward to, since it is officiated by the Archbishop of Paris. The mass was broadcast live on the Radio Notre Dame and KTO-Catholic TV, a French Catholic station.
Who doesn't know that Notre Dame Cathedral Paris was the location for Victor Hugo's well-loved novel and Disney's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame"? The group was unaware that I surreptitiously tried to find Quasimodo among the stone figures on top of Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris - to no avail. Seriously.
However, I can attest to the fact that there were a good number of Esmeraldas braving the rain apparently to hear the evening mass.
I did not realize until now that Notre Dame de Paris means Our Lady of Paris. It is a gothic, yet Catholic Cathedral. In fact, it is considered as one of the earliest and well-known gothic buildings in Paris France.
Located in in the Church Square, right in front of the Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris is the Paris Point Zero. This is the marker from which distances to all locations in Paris are measured.
It is said that if you touch this brass marker and make a fervent wish, it will come true. So, what have I got to lose?
I was eager to hear the Filipino Mass but unfortunately it was scheduled at 3PM, the time when we would still be at the apartment for lunch. We had no choice but to settle for a much later time, 6:30 PM.
Nonetheless, this was a mass that I was looking forward to, since it is officiated by the Archbishop of Paris. The mass was broadcast live on the Radio Notre Dame and KTO-Catholic TV, a French Catholic station.
Who doesn't know that Notre Dame Cathedral Paris was the location for Victor Hugo's well-loved novel and Disney's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame"? The group was unaware that I surreptitiously tried to find Quasimodo among the stone figures on top of Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris - to no avail. Seriously.
However, I can attest to the fact that there were a good number of Esmeraldas braving the rain apparently to hear the evening mass.
I did not realize until now that Notre Dame de Paris means Our Lady of Paris. It is a gothic, yet Catholic Cathedral. In fact, it is considered as one of the earliest and well-known gothic buildings in Paris France.
Located in in the Church Square, right in front of the Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris is the Paris Point Zero. This is the marker from which distances to all locations in Paris are measured.
It is said that if you touch this brass marker and make a fervent wish, it will come true. So, what have I got to lose?
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
The Louvre Museum
November 21, 2010 - It was a rainy day in Paris France. Extremely cold, the skies were gray like it was on our first day. Making matters worse was the drizzle. Despite the damp weather and all, I was still looking forward to visiting the Louvre Museum.
Destination: The Louvre Museum. We took Bus Number 72 and got off at the Palais Royale Louvre Station. It was an interesting route going to the Louvre as the bus runs by the Seine river, which means I got to see again the major attractions along the river, including the Eiffel Tower.
Grand Louvre - it is one of Paris France' most popular historic monuments. The Louvre Museum is also one of the largest in the world and most visited as well. It is home to the Mona Lisa, a painting masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci.
Trivia about this French historical piece of architecture. Originally, the museum was a royal palace built by different Kings. However, with the building of a new palace for the French Royalty, it was transformed into a museum in the 18th century. The Louvre Museum has early names such as Musee Central des Arts and the Musee Napoleon. However, most French locals and tourists affectionately call it as The Louvre.
It is said that if you visit the museum and check every artifact, painting, stone and clay figure, sculpture and historical piece for at least 30 seconds, you will end your visit in five months. I don't intend to do that as I have just two days more to go for my Paris tour.
From afar, the glass pyramid in the middle of the palace courtyard caught our full attention, away from the classical, even Gothic(for me at least) palace buildings of Louvre.
We were greeted with a long line. Definitely, people would want to miss everything else but not the most famous occupant of the museum - The Mona Lisa. The long queue was quite painful enough; however, it was aggravated by the drizzle. Finally, we got to the entrance.
Actually, we were in line not for Louvre Museum tickets as Francois already bought them weeks ago,but just to get into the museum. Inside, expect it not to be 100 percent museum as you can find commercial establishments, souvenir shops and boutiques, cafes and restaurants .
We proceeded down Denon hall as we entered the museum. Our primary target - the Mona Lisa. Luckily you would not get lost as plenty of arrows directing toward this famous painting are everywhere. The same can be said as true for the second most famous occupant - the Venus de Milo.
Just witnessing the beauty of these two paintings can be spellbinding. Apart from the Mona Lisa and Venus de Mila, I was also in awe with the gargantuan paintings, particularly the Italian(Roman) masterpieces, some of which are as large and wide as the whole gallery walls.
Admittedly, I am not a fan of art, but I truly enjoyed the short few hours that I spent The Louvre Museum. It doesn't just house world famous masterpieces, but also includes Roman and Egyptian artifacts as well. I was particularly impressed with huge Egyptian collection.
It is obvious that the Egyptian section of the Louvre has the largest collection of artifacts. They must have devoted an entire floor of the museum just for the Egyptian collection, as historical pieces occupy numerous rooms. Such collections include mummies, clay human and animal figures and forms and as well as ancient tools and implements of sorts.
If given the chance, I would definitely revisit the Louvre Museum. It is highly recommended to everyone as a family trip, as you can bring your kids to the books and children section of the museum, where their collection is simply voluminous. Indeed, the hassle of flying to Paris France and getting Louvre Museum tickets beforehand are all worthwhile as you are sure to enjoy the best museum in the world.
Destination: The Louvre Museum. We took Bus Number 72 and got off at the Palais Royale Louvre Station. It was an interesting route going to the Louvre as the bus runs by the Seine river, which means I got to see again the major attractions along the river, including the Eiffel Tower.
Grand Louvre - it is one of Paris France' most popular historic monuments. The Louvre Museum is also one of the largest in the world and most visited as well. It is home to the Mona Lisa, a painting masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci.
Trivia about this French historical piece of architecture. Originally, the museum was a royal palace built by different Kings. However, with the building of a new palace for the French Royalty, it was transformed into a museum in the 18th century. The Louvre Museum has early names such as Musee Central des Arts and the Musee Napoleon. However, most French locals and tourists affectionately call it as The Louvre.
It is said that if you visit the museum and check every artifact, painting, stone and clay figure, sculpture and historical piece for at least 30 seconds, you will end your visit in five months. I don't intend to do that as I have just two days more to go for my Paris tour.
From afar, the glass pyramid in the middle of the palace courtyard caught our full attention, away from the classical, even Gothic(for me at least) palace buildings of Louvre.
We were greeted with a long line. Definitely, people would want to miss everything else but not the most famous occupant of the museum - The Mona Lisa. The long queue was quite painful enough; however, it was aggravated by the drizzle. Finally, we got to the entrance.
Actually, we were in line not for Louvre Museum tickets as Francois already bought them weeks ago,but just to get into the museum. Inside, expect it not to be 100 percent museum as you can find commercial establishments, souvenir shops and boutiques, cafes and restaurants .
We proceeded down Denon hall as we entered the museum. Our primary target - the Mona Lisa. Luckily you would not get lost as plenty of arrows directing toward this famous painting are everywhere. The same can be said as true for the second most famous occupant - the Venus de Milo.
Just witnessing the beauty of these two paintings can be spellbinding. Apart from the Mona Lisa and Venus de Mila, I was also in awe with the gargantuan paintings, particularly the Italian(Roman) masterpieces, some of which are as large and wide as the whole gallery walls.
Admittedly, I am not a fan of art, but I truly enjoyed the short few hours that I spent The Louvre Museum. It doesn't just house world famous masterpieces, but also includes Roman and Egyptian artifacts as well. I was particularly impressed with huge Egyptian collection.
It is obvious that the Egyptian section of the Louvre has the largest collection of artifacts. They must have devoted an entire floor of the museum just for the Egyptian collection, as historical pieces occupy numerous rooms. Such collections include mummies, clay human and animal figures and forms and as well as ancient tools and implements of sorts.
If given the chance, I would definitely revisit the Louvre Museum. It is highly recommended to everyone as a family trip, as you can bring your kids to the books and children section of the museum, where their collection is simply voluminous. Indeed, the hassle of flying to Paris France and getting Louvre Museum tickets beforehand are all worthwhile as you are sure to enjoy the best museum in the world.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Moulin Rouge Show - Pigalle Paris
Francois mentioned that we were already in Pigalle Paris, sections of which are devoted to the French sex industry, making it known to locals and tourists alike as the red light district of Paris France.
We found ourselves on the Boulevard de Clichy, where we got a glimpse of sex shops (facade, at least) and encountered a few prostitutes who eagerly offered their wares.
Finally, we came to the establishment that everyone must have already seen countless times on photos and films - the Moulin Rouge. Going down the station Blanche, you will readily see the Moulin. It will immediately capture your attention, what with its flamboyantly reddish colored facade and its windmill on the roof.
Moulin Rouge Show - Enjoy Can-Can Dances
Moulin Rouge was not always the legitimate entertainment establishment that I thought it was but was originally a brothel. It already offered shows, but the early dancers exposed much of their skin to the outrage of the public. Over time, the cabaret evolved into a more decent musical entertainment venue. The modern Moulin Rouge show features many acrobatics while the usual vulgarity disappeared. Now it is widely accepted and patronized by the French high society.
Care for Moulin Rouge Tickets?
Needless to say, the Moulin Rouge cabaret is a huge tourist attraction of Paris France. It offers the best of musical entertainment like the can-can dance. I would love to watch a Moulin Rouge can-can show, but the price of the Moulin Rouge tickets, 150 euros, forbids me to do so. It's simply beyond your author's reach.
We found ourselves on the Boulevard de Clichy, where we got a glimpse of sex shops (facade, at least) and encountered a few prostitutes who eagerly offered their wares.
Finally, we came to the establishment that everyone must have already seen countless times on photos and films - the Moulin Rouge. Going down the station Blanche, you will readily see the Moulin. It will immediately capture your attention, what with its flamboyantly reddish colored facade and its windmill on the roof.
Moulin Rouge Show - Enjoy Can-Can Dances
Moulin Rouge was not always the legitimate entertainment establishment that I thought it was but was originally a brothel. It already offered shows, but the early dancers exposed much of their skin to the outrage of the public. Over time, the cabaret evolved into a more decent musical entertainment venue. The modern Moulin Rouge show features many acrobatics while the usual vulgarity disappeared. Now it is widely accepted and patronized by the French high society.
Care for Moulin Rouge Tickets?
Needless to say, the Moulin Rouge cabaret is a huge tourist attraction of Paris France. It offers the best of musical entertainment like the can-can dance. I would love to watch a Moulin Rouge can-can show, but the price of the Moulin Rouge tickets, 150 euros, forbids me to do so. It's simply beyond your author's reach.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Sacred Heart Church of Paris France
After our Eiffel Tower tour, we took the Metro and headed for our lunch. I was practically pleading for Quick, a popular hamburger restaurant in France, but Francois insisted that the group must take a heavy meal, and so wanted to treat us to a Chinese restaurant that serves buffet. No use arguing with a friend who seem to want everything his way. We are in France anyway, Francois knows what's best. And more importantly, he's paying for the treat.
We did not want to waste time so to Chinese we went. And was he right. I had my fill of dimsum, crispy noodles, thick hot seafood soup, chilled fruits that I can have from the buffet table. All for 26 Euros.What a bargain for such great treats.
After after Chinese treat, off to Metro again. Next stop - the Sacred Heart Church, likewise known as the Sacre Couer Basilica. One of the more popular churches in Paris France, it is a Roman Catholic Church dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is sitting atop Montmartre, Paris' highest point.
We got off at Anvers Metro Station. Just a few walk from the station is a block where stores are located all around. They sell a variety of souvenirs such as posters, cards, Eiffel Tower miniatures, dresses and shirts (even naughty aprons), rolls of cloth, and more. I was told that this place is where you should buy stuff because prices here are affordable, even for tourists. We had to go through the "shopping block" as we walked towards the Sacred Heart Church so I couldn't help but be tempted to buy something - I bought two shirts for 15 euros a pair.
We finally saw the beautiful Sacred Heart Church sitting on top of the hill. Such a wonderful sight. To be able to reach the church, you can either take the cable car or furniculaire or climb up the steps. Of course, we took the cable. In front of the church was a band playing current pop music to the delight of a good sized audience. An unusual scene, I thought. But I was told that during summer, women go sun bathing naked - in front of the church.
The dome of the Church is open to the public. Being there provides one an excellent view of Paris. But we opted not to, but instead stayed on the Church ground, where the views we had of the city was nonetheless impressive. Enjoying breathtaking sights of Paris while listening to great popular American music rendered by a French band, what more can you ask?
Like in many other popular landmarks in Paris France, Sacred Heart Basilica is surrounded by small cafes and bistros.
However, one part of the Church vicinity that attracts me is the artist's area where many painters and illustrators and their works of art can be seen and admired.
Some will offer for them to draw your likeness, for a fee of course. Indeed, their works are so impressive; unfortunately they charge quite exorbitantly (one charges 100 euros, too high for my budget). Next time perhaps?
We did not want to waste time so to Chinese we went. And was he right. I had my fill of dimsum, crispy noodles, thick hot seafood soup, chilled fruits that I can have from the buffet table. All for 26 Euros.What a bargain for such great treats.
After after Chinese treat, off to Metro again. Next stop - the Sacred Heart Church, likewise known as the Sacre Couer Basilica. One of the more popular churches in Paris France, it is a Roman Catholic Church dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is sitting atop Montmartre, Paris' highest point.
We got off at Anvers Metro Station. Just a few walk from the station is a block where stores are located all around. They sell a variety of souvenirs such as posters, cards, Eiffel Tower miniatures, dresses and shirts (even naughty aprons), rolls of cloth, and more. I was told that this place is where you should buy stuff because prices here are affordable, even for tourists. We had to go through the "shopping block" as we walked towards the Sacred Heart Church so I couldn't help but be tempted to buy something - I bought two shirts for 15 euros a pair.
We finally saw the beautiful Sacred Heart Church sitting on top of the hill. Such a wonderful sight. To be able to reach the church, you can either take the cable car or furniculaire or climb up the steps. Of course, we took the cable. In front of the church was a band playing current pop music to the delight of a good sized audience. An unusual scene, I thought. But I was told that during summer, women go sun bathing naked - in front of the church.
The dome of the Church is open to the public. Being there provides one an excellent view of Paris. But we opted not to, but instead stayed on the Church ground, where the views we had of the city was nonetheless impressive. Enjoying breathtaking sights of Paris while listening to great popular American music rendered by a French band, what more can you ask?
Like in many other popular landmarks in Paris France, Sacred Heart Basilica is surrounded by small cafes and bistros.
However, one part of the Church vicinity that attracts me is the artist's area where many painters and illustrators and their works of art can be seen and admired.
Some will offer for them to draw your likeness, for a fee of course. Indeed, their works are so impressive; unfortunately they charge quite exorbitantly (one charges 100 euros, too high for my budget). Next time perhaps?
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Eiffel Tower - Enjoying its Magnificence
November 20, 2010 was our first official tour date in Paris France. We would be having our first real taste of the City, according to Francois, our unofficial tour guide. I was raring to go, woked up at 5am but thought it was too early as it was still dark outside. Went back to sleep. I guess I overslept as I woke up at 7am. I was surprised to find out as I checked out from the window that everything was still dark. Francois was quick to explain that sun does not shine until after 8am.
A great Paris France city tour is not without a hearty breakfast. Good thing our host was just too willing to prepare for us fresh croissant, petit pain au chocolate (which is actually soft bread with chocolate filling) , pain au raisin ( bread with raisins) , some butter, jam and fruit yoghurt (I notice the yoghurt brand was Yoplait, same as what we buy in Tel Aviv) We enjoyed some nice hot coffee afterwards.
Eiffel Tower Tour
9 am, The sun was up, out and hot so instead of going first to the Phil Embassy as planned, we went straight to the bus station that would take us to the Eiffel tower site. We got off in front of the Trocadero and walked towards the Eiffel tower.
Surrounding and complimenting the tower are expanse of green grass, trees in autumn colors, buildings (including the Trocadero) with wonderful facade. Indeed, it becomes all the more imposing as you go near it. I asked about hotels near Eiffel Tower. Francois quickly suggests Hotel Pullman, Hotel Mercure and Derby Alma Hotel, few of the most popular hotels Eiffel Tower.
Finally I found myself beneath this great wonder of an iron structure - and it was simply unbelievable. Pictures. I have got to take pictures to prove to friends and family I was here.
While in line to buy our tickets, a street vendor caught our attention. In tow were Eiffel tower souvenirs of different forms, colors (lights!) and sizes. He must have noticed our interest in his goods so he displayed some tenacity in trying to sell to us. I asked the price of a glass miniature Eiffel tower with changing colors - 10 euros! I was about to hand to him the amount when Francois cautioned me that it was too expensive . But just as when we were almost at the caisse (cashier), the vendor must have realized that we have no time to haggle with him so he offered it with a much lesser price, down to 5 euros. Immediately, we took two.
We queued for quite some time and finally got our tickets in 20 minutes. I was told that we had a convenient time considering that during the summer season, it will probably take one hour to the whole morning at the most just to get tickets to tour the Eiffel Tower. I notice security is tight - there is one checking the line and another within the entrance of the tower. There are two ways to climb the Eiffel tower, via the elevator and by foot! Of course, you can correctly guess what we chose.
We climbed up to the second level and realized immediately the purpose of the tower - to see Paris in its entirety. Magnificent. One can marvel at all the amazing sights of the city. I saw the Sacred Heart church, the Arc de Triomphe, La Defense, Concorde and many more. Paris is simply magical when seen from the Eiffel Tower.
I could have stayed all day at the tower but we only had the morning to spend on the site and needed to proceed to our next city destination.
Reluctantly I followed them towards the descending elevator. Wait, did I have pictures? I got to have enough. Made sure I had for myself some video clips too. This visit of the tower might not happen again. But then I am praying otherwise.
A great Paris France city tour is not without a hearty breakfast. Good thing our host was just too willing to prepare for us fresh croissant, petit pain au chocolate (which is actually soft bread with chocolate filling) , pain au raisin ( bread with raisins) , some butter, jam and fruit yoghurt (I notice the yoghurt brand was Yoplait, same as what we buy in Tel Aviv) We enjoyed some nice hot coffee afterwards.
Eiffel Tower Tour
9 am, The sun was up, out and hot so instead of going first to the Phil Embassy as planned, we went straight to the bus station that would take us to the Eiffel tower site. We got off in front of the Trocadero and walked towards the Eiffel tower.
Surrounding and complimenting the tower are expanse of green grass, trees in autumn colors, buildings (including the Trocadero) with wonderful facade. Indeed, it becomes all the more imposing as you go near it. I asked about hotels near Eiffel Tower. Francois quickly suggests Hotel Pullman, Hotel Mercure and Derby Alma Hotel, few of the most popular hotels Eiffel Tower.
Finally I found myself beneath this great wonder of an iron structure - and it was simply unbelievable. Pictures. I have got to take pictures to prove to friends and family I was here.
While in line to buy our tickets, a street vendor caught our attention. In tow were Eiffel tower souvenirs of different forms, colors (lights!) and sizes. He must have noticed our interest in his goods so he displayed some tenacity in trying to sell to us. I asked the price of a glass miniature Eiffel tower with changing colors - 10 euros! I was about to hand to him the amount when Francois cautioned me that it was too expensive . But just as when we were almost at the caisse (cashier), the vendor must have realized that we have no time to haggle with him so he offered it with a much lesser price, down to 5 euros. Immediately, we took two.
We queued for quite some time and finally got our tickets in 20 minutes. I was told that we had a convenient time considering that during the summer season, it will probably take one hour to the whole morning at the most just to get tickets to tour the Eiffel Tower. I notice security is tight - there is one checking the line and another within the entrance of the tower. There are two ways to climb the Eiffel tower, via the elevator and by foot! Of course, you can correctly guess what we chose.
We climbed up to the second level and realized immediately the purpose of the tower - to see Paris in its entirety. Magnificent. One can marvel at all the amazing sights of the city. I saw the Sacred Heart church, the Arc de Triomphe, La Defense, Concorde and many more. Paris is simply magical when seen from the Eiffel Tower.
I could have stayed all day at the tower but we only had the morning to spend on the site and needed to proceed to our next city destination.
Reluctantly I followed them towards the descending elevator. Wait, did I have pictures? I got to have enough. Made sure I had for myself some video clips too. This visit of the tower might not happen again. But then I am praying otherwise.
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