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Showing posts with label paris. Show all posts
Showing posts with label paris. Show all posts

Ile-de-France: Museums & Attractions

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Ile-de-France is rife with places to visit. You could spend your entire vacation in Paris, for goodness sake, and still not see everything that only that city has to offer. But Ile-de-France is much more than just the City of Lights. As home to many of France's kings and queens, the region is rich with historical sights that you may have read and daydreamed about in history class. A few of the highlights of the Ile-de-France region include:

Paris -- this is a no-brainer, and pages and pages could be written here about what to see and what to do. Whilst the Louvre may be its most famous museum, Paris is also home to a variety of other art museums, with houses of art dedicated to Monet, Rodin, and just about any other French artist you can think of. Other 'of-course!' places to see and things to do include the Tour Eiffel, Arc de Triomphe, Hotel des Invalides, a stroll down the Champs-Elysee, a walking tour of the roof of Notre Dame ... the list goes on and on. For a comprehensive listing of all-things Paris, check out the Inside Paris pages.

Versailles -- located 16 km (10 miles) west of Paris, the sights of Versailles are breathtaking -- both inside and out. Chateau Versailles, home of Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette, is both ostentatious and awe-inspiring at the same time. Admission to Versailles is dependent on which part of the grounds you wish to visit and the time of year. (Not surprisingly, admission is more expensive during the summer high season). If you've gone into bling overload whilst inside the palace, be sure to spend some time wandering the 250-acre grounds of the Parc de Versailles, which surrounds the palace.

Chartres -- located 19 km (12 miles) west of Maintenou, Chartres is home to Chartres Cathedral. The current cathedral, built during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily. Tours of the crypt occur daily during the summer. Check for times at the Cathedral. The price for a crypt tour is 2.30 Euro.

Giverny -- you've seen Monet's paintings, now see where he was inspired, as Giverney is home to le Maison et Jardin Claude-Monet. The best time to visit Giverney is May or June, when the garden blooms are at their peak. Monet's house and gardens are open to the public April through October, Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.Admission to the gardens and home is 5.50 Euro, to the gardens only is 4 Euro.

Fontainbleau -- located 61 km (38 miles) southeast of Paris, the Chateau de Fontainbleau was the home to a long line of royalty, beginning with Francois I in the sixteenth century. Over the years each proceeding member of the royalty added his or her own touches to the sprawling palace. Fontainbleau is open daily (except Tuesday) year-round, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. October through May and 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. June through September. Cost of admission is 6.50 Euro for adults and free for those 18 and under. There is an additional 3 Euro fee to visit Napoleon's apartments.

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Posted by sidra siddiqui

France- A Dream Home

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Author: Adam Wasp

France is one beautiful country and a very advanced nation. Many people enter France either legally or illegally. All of these people want a place or a home to live in. Many tourists enter France each year, and out of those touring France many want to live permanently in Franc


Living in France


If you want to live and work in France, you need a work permit first. You also need a valid passport. If you have entered France illegally you carry the risk of deportation from France anytime. You need to be properly qualified to undertake your job. You might get job in unskilled category if you are not suitably qualified. France has a lot of people who are unqualified therefore getting a job in France is a bit more difficult than in other European nations and United States of America. Your qualification should be a bit more than what the job requires. This will make it certain that you get the job. If you marry in France, you will get French citizenship easily. Another way of entering France is through obtainment of student visa. A student visa qualifies you to study in France. You can study various courses like management, engineering, medical sciences in France. Once you graduate from these universities, you can also get placed by the universities under their placement programs. In this way you will be an employee in France after obtaining qualification from France.


Living in France has always been costly especially in Paris. The French property has been also very costly in areas in and around Paris. You can find houses for sale in France in newspapers, websites, and other channels. Today there is an investment boom in France with people investing a lot of money in properties for sale in France and French market.


French art and culture


Many people undergo a cultural shock once they visit France. This is so because the French have always had been culturally strong. The French art rivals art form from any other nation.


The French property can be considered good for long term investment. Some people who require a house reach those people and property dealers who have houses for sale in France. The same channels that have houses for sales also enlist other properties for sale in France as well.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/france-a-dream-home-5032088.html


About the Author

These properties for sale in France advertisements are posted by gentlemen who wish to sell their property. You can get proper quotes for Brittany property by any property dealer. By the help of these channels, you can get French property.

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Posted by Frequent Traveler

Christian Louboutin: More Pop in UK or in France?

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Author: Lady Shoes Guard

Christian Louboutin is world-renowned for its unique red lacquered soles, which has become a trademark glossary for all CL signature shoes and boots as well as other accessories. But the Paris brands seems much more popular in UK than in France. What is your opinion towards such claimation? You are warm welcome to put forward your points after a glimpse of the following info.


The brand originally from Paris bestows itself with the romantic disposition of Paris thus being a coveted item for every lady. From the Queen of Jordan to the Hollywood stars, no one has been willing to be a free spokes lady for Christian Louboutin, for the red lacquered soles are so shiny and sexy that nobody could refuse the allure of French romantics. Accordingly, the brand should be long pursued by its local citizens. But it seems not the case yet.


The red soles of Christian Louboutin seems much more popular in UK. It is universally accepted that French is more romantic than English while English ladies are much more graceful than French women. I used to wonder why it is such the case. But that is the fact. I learnt from some friends in UK that the quantity of CL stores is countless and it has the trend to expand. More objectively, the quantity of keywords embossed on different websites selling CL shoes and boots is another proof. It is too common to find CL UK, CL Shoes in UK and etc. But it is quite rare to remark like CL Paris. Here I do not intend to explore the real purpose of such embossed keywords, whether they are for SEO or to get more traffics so as for better sales. The statistics have proved the red sole CL shoes is much more popular in UK and in France!


As a well-known shoes brand all over the world, no wonder CL shoes have won great reputation from love-beauty ladies. But it is a pity that it is not so pop in its origin as that in other countries and regions. If you'd like to share with your point, please feel free to leave your kind comments underbelow.


Voice from the heart, love with your heart, love without words .If you are also interested in CL boots, shoes, pumps, sandals or flats, you are warm welcome to make your comments hereunder at Lady Shoes Mall.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/fashion-articles/christian-louboutin-more-pop-in-uk-or-in-france-4508128.html


About the Author

Lady Shoes Mall, High Heel Shoes, Christian Louboutin Shoes, Chanel Boots, Jimmy Choo, YSL

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Posted by Frequent Traveler

Paris, France - Shopping Paradise

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Author: Paris France

Paris is one of the few cities in the world where you should not go to a specific place to make your shopping because opportunity encountered everywhere. Shop windows are full of creativity and expression, as few can find in other cities of the world.


Most shops are open Monday to Saturday from 10 to 19, but hours vary and some small shops have lunch break for two hours. Thursday is the day for shopping as the stores are open until 21 or 22 hours. Sunday, only shops in tourist areas that are of great interest and those on the Champs Elysees are open.


Twice a year, there is the highly anticipated "rendez-vous" with discounts for bargain lovers and fashion victims. Big discounts and special offers are everywhere. Discounts are especially at clothes, shoes, accessories but also at household products. Discounts are promoted to sell remaining products from last season collection. For a pleasant shopping experience, visit the shops from the two famous shopping centers on the Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement: Printemps and Galeries Lafayette, which are located next to each other.


One from the most popular places where you can find a real treasure is The Fair. (Paris France) has three such fairs, which dates back to ancient times and are situated around the old city's gates. If you are looking for rare and unusual books, then you have to walk on the banks of the Seine, the home of famous bouquinistes. Paris Art Market is the place to go on Sunday (10 - 19:30), in Montparnasse, was a huge outdoor art gallery where exhibit more than 100 sculptors, painters, photographers, jewelers.


For fashion shopping you can go the 8th arrondissement, Avenue Montaigne, for brands: Chanel, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Valentino, and Rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, for: Christian Lacroix, Gucci and Hermes, and for other famous art galleries and antique shops. Champs-Elysees and the four commercial galleries - Le Claridge, Élysées 26, Galerie du Rond-Point and Le Lido - have become a tourist attraction, but first, a landmark for shopping enthusiasts. Here are established the brands: Benetton, Adidas, Nike, Gap, Disney Store or Sephora. Louis Vuitton store dominates one of the streets that crosses the famous boulevard from Paris.


Increasingly many famous designers and stores have moved on Rive Gauche: Christian Dior, Giorgio Armani and Louis Vuitton, and if you're lucky even find a parking place on this street. For discounts and oldest collections go on Rue St-Placide.


Although there are many (places to see in Paris), many come here for shopping. Whatever you are looking to buy, Paris is probably the most appropriate destination, since shops are an integral part from the city's cultural identity.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/paris-france-shopping-paradise-4269283.html


About the Author

Paris France

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Posted by Frequent Traveler

Why Bastille Day is Infamous

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Infamous for its wide boulevards and iconic attractions, one can have a glimpse of the past by visiting the historical landmarks. As the heartbeat of culture, beauty and romance, often referred to as the love capital of the world Paris offers some of the most beautiful and majestic sights on the planet.

Paris is known as the City of Light and there is no better way to experience the city at night than to sail down the River Seine. The Seine has provided water and transportation for over 2,000 years. Pont des Arts is a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Seine River. The Pont des Arts is always filled with people, music, painters, and of course, couples kissing.

The Louvre is closed Tuesdays and it takes at least a week to see the entire museum exhibit. But if your pitched for time, the Venus de Milo, the famed Winged Victory and of course, the Mona Lisa are must sees. The Louvre museum, is one of the most important museums reportedly hosts up to 6 million visitors a year who are eager to see the most famous paintings and works of art.

The Musee d'Orsay holds a great number of impressionist artwork or the Musee d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris for great modern art. The Musee Rodin is one of the most charming and overlooked museums The tranquil gardens behind the museum with plenty of benches are ideal for a mid afternoon stroll. For historians, Musee Carnavalet explores the history of Paris.

In the United States, we have the 4th of July and in France, the most important holiday is July 14th. Bastille Day is not about the storming of the Bastille in 1789 an event that has long been held up as a symbol of the birth of the modern French nation but rather is a commemoration of the Fete de la Federation which took place a year later. This was a large feast that was held to celebrate the uprising of the constitutional monarchy in France, which many people consider to be the mark of the end of the French Revolution.

On the 21 May 1880, Benjamin Raspail proposed a law to have the Republic choose the 14 July as a yearly national holiday. The assembly voted the text on 21 May and 8 June. The Senate approved on 27 and 29 June, favoring 14 July against 4 August honoring the end of the feudal system on 4 August 1789. The law was made official on 6 July 1880, and the Ministry of the Interior recommended to prefects that the day should be celebrated with all the brilliance that the local resources allow. Indeed, the celebrations of the new holiday in 1880 were particularly magnificent.

The 21st century, festivities are held the morning of 14 July. The parade opens with many cadets and it is customary to invite units from France's allies to the parade. In 2004 during the centenary of the Entente Cordiale, British troops.

The president used to give an interview to members of the press, discussing the situation of the country, recent events and projects for the future. Nicolas Sarkozy, elected president in 2007, has chosen not to give it. Bastille Day falls during the Tour de France and is traditionally a day on which French riders try to take a stage victory for France, working harder than they might otherwise.

The night before Bastille Day sees a range of parties. Bastille Square is a popular venue for dancing on the eve of the Fete Nationale and crowds gather at the Champ de Mars to watch the fireworks display.

If you have not experienced Bastille Day in Paris, you have not seen France or better yet Paris in all her glory.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

10 Most Beautiful Courses In France

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Everyone who visits France talks about the exquisite beauty of the country. From the charming smaller villages around Alsace and Provence, to the culture and bustle of Paris, France’s aesthetics cannot be called into question. It’s no surprise then that compiling a list of the most beautiful golf courses in France was pretty easy – narrowing it down to the best 10 was the hard part!

So here they are: the top 10 most beautiful golf courses in France:

Belle Dune, Northern France

One of the most beautiful golf courses in Europe, let alone France, you can tell that Belle Dune has been designed as much for its visual appeal as for the good game of golf the course provides. During your game, the course requires you to stroll thorough one of the largest nature reserves in Europe, and despite the longish walks between holes and the sometimes unforgiving holes that make bogeys common when the coastal winds strike, it’s impossible not to wander the fairways and greens with a big smile on your face.

Champ de Bataille, Normandy

The stunning ancient forests surrounding Champ de Bataille temporarily blind you to the fact that this course plays a damn fine game of golf. Amid the fauna and flora to admire, there is a mix of 18 varied and entertaining holes with lush fairways and protected greens. When taking a golf break in France, this is an absolute must for the player with an eye for beauty, or just an eye for a tremendous course!

Val Andre, Brittany

When you arrive to tee off at Val Andre for the first time, it is easy to find yourself distracted by the beauty of the surroundings. Set against amazing land and seascapes, and with beaches and cliffs in the distance, it’s important to keep one eye on your game, because the winds and tricky greens can get the better of even the most seasoned golfer.

Les Bordes, Loire

Les Bordes needs no introduction. It’s consistently ranked among the best in Europe and will provide a challenge to any golfer who chooses to visit (the record for the course is a single stroke under par) as well as provide a tranquil setting to get away from it all. The surroundings of the course are idyllic countryside and provide some splendid woodland walks and exploration once the golf shoes are off – if you can pull yourself away from the greens and fairways! A must for any golf break in France.

Fontainebleau, South of Paris

This is an immaculately-kept golf course, probably due in no small part to its private, exclusive membership (but our clients are welcomed with open arms). The raised tees offer incredible views of the surrounding forest, which is the largest in France. For me, the highlight has to be on the 9th fairway, where everything is how the perfect golf course should look – velvet greens, ancient woodland and deep bunkers lining carpet-like fairways…All combining to present a real challenge.

Seignosse, South West France

Very much the pick of the South Western France golf courses, the hilly terrains and raised tees offer some amazing views – and not just of the delightfully contoured fairways. With the course just a couple of miles inland off the Atlantic you can be sure of some mesmerising sights – take your camera for the Tiger Tee on the 11th hole.

Evian, Alps

Everything about this golf course screams beauty; from the delightful layout to the well-kept fairways and greens and log-cabin clubhouse. If you can tear yourself away from the delights of the Par 72 course, there are some splendid views of Lake Leman. Host to the world’s richest tournament for ladies, it is no surprise that the Evian Masters course attracts keen golfers as well as well-to-do holiday golfers from the neighbouring Royal Evian Hotel.

Correncon, Alps

Set 1200 feet up in the Vercors Massif and bordering Europe’s largest nature reserve, it’s little wonder this is one of the most beautiful golf courses in France! Simply put, mountain scenery does not come more spectacular than this and, although the course may prove a little easy for scratch golfers, a stroll along a course carved into such impressive mountain forest surroundings is treat enough in itself.

Gassin, Provence

It’s fitting that one of the most attractive areas of France now has a golf course to match. Golf du Gassin opened in 2005 and has already established itself as one of the better golf courses France has to offer. Set in a listed and protected environment, the natural aesthetics surrounding the course are simply stunning. Designed by Gary Player and Robert Trent Jones, they have made a great golf course in very picturesque surroundings.

Taulane, Provence

This is my personal pick of the bunch – the most beautiful golf course in France. The mountain backdrop provides an unrivalled sense of seclusion and even a bad swing day is a great golf day! The course is excellent too – another Gary Player design – quite easy to walk, a real pleasure and testing challenge to play and a lovely lunch with a glass or two of Rose on the terrace rounds off the perfect golfing experience. With so many beautiful courses, it’s no wonder that golf breaks in France are still our No. 1. In fact, just reading over my list has got me digging out my suitcase!

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

Living in Paris

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Paris is place of romantic atmosphere, dream vacations and relaxation. There is an aura of escaping from the world in this beautiful country. There are also millions of people who live here and others who are moving to France every day for various reasons. Paris is the capital city of France and the largest city of the country. The area of the country is 105 square kilometers and there are about 2.15 million people who live there. If you include the suburbs of Paris, the population rises to 12 million people. Through the oldest part of Paris runs the Seine River, which then divides into the Left and Right Banks.

For five years, France has been in first place in the Quality of Life Index. This is due to the bon vivant lifestyle that is so unique in the country. The relaxing meals that last for hours upon end, the small shops along the city streets, and the walks along the Seine River are just tidbits of how people in France live. If you are considering moving to France, you will want to be sure to have your application packet ready and sent ahead. Included in this packet, you must have your passport along with three photocopies. Also, you will need several copies of the applications form, along with proof of health insurance and your marriage license. Once they receive these things, they will return your passport to you, with your visa enclosed.

The French government is known for their cumbersome bureaucracy, which generally includes much paperwork. So, when you considering moving to France, gather up every conceivable document that proves your identity, relationships with family, etc. They will likely use most everything you can come up with and it will make things move quicker. Also, as you consider moving to France, be sure to contact a worldwide moving company as soon as possible. It's important to find a moving company that specializes in worldwide moving. While you may be friends with one of the local moving company guys, he is not equipped to move your things overseas. It requires a great deal of knowledge and research to know the many regulations and rules about moving things to a foreign country.

When you call an international moving company to make initial inquiries, be sure and ask many questions. They will want to know your plans such as when you moving, what you want to take with you and any other important details. Also, you need to get an estimate from them and at least two other moving companies. This will allow you to make a good decision on who you want to work with to get your things moved. This is not a decision to take lightly because this choice can make a big difference on the success of your move. If you plan to take your car with you, it is important to remember that the brand and model of your car is sold overseas as well. If you take your car and then have problems, there will be no way to get it repaired. 

While it's difficult to get a car approved for driving in France, it has been done. Make sure you leave the existing license plates on the car as that will make it easier to get car insurance. Bear in mind also that if your steering wheel is on the left, you may have trouble with many of the toll booths in France. Paris is a huge tourist area because of the many fascinating sights to see there. Of course, the Eiffel Tower is the most famous landmark. The Louvre is a famous museum known for very old works of art such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Another fascinating museum is the Musee D'Orsay, which was once a train station. The art here is newer than at the Louvre, being created between 1848 and 1915. The Moulin Rouge, located in Montmartre, is a cabaret that features many shows. It is here that the "cancan" dance girls became famous.

Fine food is a major part of French life. They are known worldwide for their cooking abilities. Chefs prepare soufflés, mouse, quiche, crepes, croissants, pate and French bread. One unusual tradition that the French people enjoy is to drink hot chocolate from bowls and dip their bread into it. This along with their excellent wines, breads and cheese make French dishes especially delicious. The French people are known for their freedom of speech, love of the arts and acceptance of diversified cultures. Religion and culture are very important segments of the country. While moving to Paris may take some time and effort, anyone moving there will be immediately entranced by the beauty in the surroundings, culture and atmosphere.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

The Beautiful Loire Valley in France

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Autoroutes or french motorways are a delight to drive on, as they are all relatively new and incredibly well maintained. All of the motorways throughout France are a fast efficient way to travel and once you are on them they are easy to navigate. They are usually expensive and the locals prefer to avoid them and stick to the national routes (the RN and D roads). France has one of the densest road networks in Europe. French roads are always very well maintained and the road network includes 4960 miles of motorways constructed in the last 20 years (many with tolls) which link the main provincial towns and cities with Paris.

The minimum driving age in France is 18 years old. All drivers in France need a valid drive's licence. Proof of insurance coverage is necessary. The gendarmes may request to see your license, insurance certificate, and vehicle registration at any time. You should also carry a passport or National Identity Card. Beware on the spot fines are imposed for not carrying the proper documentation. All drivers should carry a red warning triangle in their boot, together with spare head-light bulbs, a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher.

In France to rent a car you must be over 20 years of age and have held a full driving license for at least a year. Insurance is obligatory. All of the main car rental companies have offices in all railway stations and airports, as well as in major city centers. If you are driving to France from another country, there is a good choice of car-ferry operators from England and the Eurotunnel. All foreign cars need to display a sticker showing the country of registration displayed close to the rear registration plate. Right hand drive vehicles need to have the head-lights adjusted or have deflector kits fitted which are easily available at all the English ports.

You will need to obtain a green card from your English insurer for full cover abroad. If you do not have a green card your UK insurance will not cover you outside of England. You can also arrange for rescue and recovery service with the AA, RAC and Europ Assist. Like in England, cars already on a roundabout have right of way. In France you must give way to the right unless road signs indicate otherwise.

Avoid driving around the Champs d'Elysess in Paris if you can help it of course unless you want to do your very own Chevy Chase European Vacation roundabout experience. There are 4 traffic police stationed at the Champs d'Elysees at all times for very good reason. I have heard that insurance companies pay out and do not ask any questions as to liability for accidents on the Champs d'Elysees. It is a complete nightmare and accidents happen all the time.

Permanent speed cameras are normally well signposted and are big rectangular boxes painted with bright fluorescent black and yellow diagonal stripes to warn you. The Michelin website lists where these fixed speed cameras are on your journey and advises the speed limit at those locations. It will also calculate the toll for you on motorways. On autoroutes the speed limit is 130 kilometres and 110 when it rains. On dual carriage ways the speed limit is reduced to 110 kilometres and 90 when it rains. On other roads the speed limit is 90 kilometres and 80 when it rains. towns, villages, hamlets, the normal limit is 50 kilometres and the French do not always display the speed limit.

Filling up with petrol or diesel is straight forward when travelling on a motorway. If you are travelling on the national routes you have to be really careful about buying petrol or diesel on a Sunday. Almost every service station is closed on a Sunday (except those on Motorways) and all of the automatic petrol pumps do not accept international credit cards only French debit and credit cards. Hypermarkets and large supermarkets sell petrol at a discount but remember only to locals with French cards on a Sunday.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

Things To Do On Holiday in France

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France is one of the most popular family holiday destinations for families staying in holiday villas and self catering apartments. France is located in Western Europe. The country is famous for fashion, art, music, cinemas and food. The climate differs from region to region. The northern and north western region of France have a temperate climate. On the other hand, the south east region experiences the Mediterranean climate. Inland places face harsh weather with less rain, stormy and hot summers and colder winters. The mountainous areas are covered with snow for the majority of the year.

The Alps are one of Europ's most popular skiing resorts. Albertville, Grenoble and Chamonix are the most popular places to stay for winter sports. Here you will find ski chalets and self catering apartments available to rent direct from the home owners. In the summer tourists come to the Alps for the hiking. There are numerous things which can be enjoyed while holidaying in France. It is the most famous tourist destination in the world. The country attracts tourists through the dozens of tourist attractions such as Paris, Atlantic beaches, winter sports in the Alps and various castles. You can indulge into the diversified culture of France.

Paris is the most visited city in the world. Also known as the city of lights, the capital city of France has lots of attractive things for the tourists to see. The beautiful city of Paris is a famous spot for couples on their honeymoon. It is considered the most romantic city of all. While there you can stay in one of the many luxury self catering apartments or holiday villas in the capital. The best way to find out all about Paris is to visit one or several of its museums, consisting of more than seventy. You can purchase one single ticket that allows entry to all of them. The Eiffel Tower is the most popular landmark in Paris. Apart from this, Paris is visited for the Lachaise Cemetery, Catacombs, Sainte Chappelle, Chateau de Versailles and Grande Arche de la Defense. Paris hosts a number of major fashion and sports events throughout the year. Many tourists rent a holiday villa or self catering apartment and use this as a base to explore the locals towns and museums.

The Tour de France is the infamous cycling tournament that takes place that covers most areas of France. The cyclists cover more than 3,000 kilometers. Hundreds of tourists come to France especially to witness the greatest racing event. There are luxurious holiday villas, apartments and cottages all available to rent in France. Cannes is famous for hosting the annual Cannes Film Festival. Thousands of tourists and local residents gather in the city to get a glimpse of their favorite film star. Every evening during the film festival, film stars from around the world walk the red carpet.

Besides the film festival, Cannes is also famous for its beaches. So, even if you don't get to see the film stars, you can relax on one of the enchanting beaches instead. Iles de Lerins is a place with two beautiful beaches in Cannes. Dotted along the coastline you will find numerous self catering apartments and holiday villas with swimming pools available for rent.

Nice Carnival is yet another exciting event worth visiting. The 10 day festival takes place in Nice every year. It is the combination of parades, street theaters, concerts and food stalls. The carnival has been taking place in France since the middle ages. This is the largest carnival out of them all.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

France; The Perfect Destination For Activity Holidays

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All manner of trip can be referred to as activity holidays; all have fun and activity at their core. France offers the tourist much in terms of activity holidays and thanks to its wide and varied scenery will entertain all comers. The mountain ranges in the south of France are some of the most beautiful in the world and while the winter sees them fill with skiers and snowboarders the summer months see travelers come for the adrenaline rush of extreme sports. One of area of France that is famed for its white water is the Tarn Gorge. Activity holidays in this region are heavily water based and tourists, whether expert or amateur, excitement is only around the next bend in the river. 

For those who like to kayak, France is the perfect destination; getting a group together and going on a trip is sheer bliss. The ability to camp by the riverside and reach destinations that are simply untouched by civilization is a must for nature lovers while white water sections will make sure experienced paddlers find a challenge. As well as kayaking, other activity holidays include white water rafting. Usually done as part of a tourist service this is a great bonding experience for families, friends and even work colleagues. The amazing beauty of the region will have you open jawed as you purview the river banks and striking canyon walls that surround you. At dawn the chance to see some of the most fascinating wildlife France has to offer is too good a chance to miss.

That is not to say that all activity holidays in France are water based, there is so much to do there is no way of fitting it all in during a single trip. For those who love to climb France has some brilliant rock faces to test your skills. For the sheer feeling of achievement as you have assailed a monster cliff, it is an activity that all should try at least once in their life. For those who want holidays that will enable them to fell free as a bird, France has a number of activities that will suffice. Hot air ballooning allows travelers to get a birds-eye view of the country in a serene and tranquil atmosphere. What could be better than champagne thousands of feet in the air? For those who prefer a little more activity to their holidays; micro-lights and para-gliders are available for hire, training to use this equipment however is essential for your own safety.

France has some of the most stunning scenery in Europe and for those who prefer a more sedate activity holiday walking and horse riding are two of the best ways to experience the best of the French countryside. With many public footpaths and riding centres dotted throughout France there are definitely amenities there for those who like to take it easy. Activity holidays however are not just about being in the outdoors. Being one of the gastronomic capitals of the world France offers budding chefs the chance to perfect their craft and learn from the masters. France is also famed for its long history of producing fine wines and touring the vineyards makes a brilliant journey; the opportunity to stop off and sample the local tipple is always a welcome distraction when on the road.

France is certainly a destination that is more than just Paris and the Eiffel Tower. The French countryside offers travelers stunning views and experiences that are hard to rival anywhere in the world. Seemingly every type of activity is available; from the high adrenaline water sports and mountaineering to soaring majestically in a hot air balloon. Add to this the sumptuous cuisine and the exquisite wines and your trip really will be an experience of a lifetime.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

Is There Life North Of Paris

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There used to be a saying about how a job could be for life. Many people would follow the profession of their parents, staying in the same area all their lives, raising children, passing on their skills and never venturing very far from home. In today's climate, this is no longer the case. There is a huge difference in wages, not just around the UK, but around the world and people often travel to where the work is. Families are separated not just by a few miles but by oceans. But communication is still good given the facilities that we have these days and people are often moving their families to other countries to find an affordable property to call home.

When combining the two, some people buy a property that comes under the French leaseback scheme. This allows you to run a business as well as purchasing property and comes with many tax benefits. There are French leaseback properties available throughout France for people to invest in and it is a good idea, if you can afford to, to purchase one of these in Northern France. When most people think of moving to France, they think Provence, they think long, hot lazy days spent sipping wine and buying cheeses. But there is so much more to this country, including the North. Understandably, the climate in the North is not it's biggest attraction as it is pretty much the same as the UK but there are many more pluses to it.

For those in the UK that currently commute into the City to work, a French leaseback property in Northern France means that they would have the benefit of an extra income as well as still being a mere one hour from London - closer and quicker than if you lived in, say, Devon or Cornwall. So, what is the incentive in Northern France that makes it worth the effort of re-locating to a different country? For a start, property is cheaper than in the UK or in the South of France. Beautiful towns of American style villas and perfect lawns abound among a population that cares about their surroundings. Hardelot-Plage is one such town. It boasts competitively priced properties with great horse riding opportunities, two championship golf courses, forests and miles and miles of golden beaches with sailing, wind and kite surfing and sand yachting.

If an investor wanted to keep working in the UK, or stay close to family over here, they could purchase a French leaseback property in the North of France, be easily accessible to the UK or live in the UK and provide themselves with the ideal weekend getaway with plenty of outdoor activities. Buying a property that they could then retire to later on works out as a good investment, not just financially, but for a quality of life to look forward to. 

For those who already run their own business in the UK, buying a French leaseback property in he North of France can have added benefits. Combined tax laws mean that finances can be brought together and one lot of tax paid, giving enormous savings and making your investment even more worth while. If in any doubt, why not take a look at properties in this area. It's worth getting off that train and having a look round the immediate area rather than heading straight for the South.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam

France, the third largest country in Europe.

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France is the third largest country in Europe in terms of land area and it draws in more than 70 million tourists every year. These tourists visit the many different exciting places in France from the world famous Riviera to the city of lights which is Paris. Museums, great architecture and great cuisine are what make France an interesting place to visit.

The ideal time to visit Paris is during spring or fall when the weather is good and the waiters in restaurants are good-tempered. For great skiing, the Alps is best visited during the months of December to January. France got its name from the Latin word Francia which means "country of the Franks", a reference to the Germanic people who conquered the area during the 5th century B.C. It became a country during the 9th century and today it is a major member of the European Union. Tourists who want to enter France must have proper documentation first. Citizens of the U.S. just need to present a valid passport to enter the country while citizens of other nations may be asked for a visa. Inquire at your nearest French embassy on the requirements needed to enter France.

When your visa is ready and you have finished packing up, the quickest way to go to France is by airplane. The city of Paris has two major international airports to handle flights; these are the Charles de Gaulle airport and Orly. Many flights from North America and European cities land at these airports. Taking the train and bus is a cheaper although longer way of entering France. Trains and buses from nearby major European cities arrive and depart at Paris everyday bringing in lots of tourists and travelers alike.

Upon your arrival in France, finding accommodations would be your first priority unless you have booked in advance. There are many types of accommodations to choose from, be it hotels, hostels, bed and breakfast places or apartments and villas. Make sure to choose the accommodation that suits your needs. If staying only for a day or two in a particular area then a hotel is a good choice but if you plan to stay for a week or two in one particular area the renting an apartment would be much cheaper. Once you have settled in then the fun begins. There are lots of tourist spots to visit all over the country. Paris city alone has many scenic spots like the world famous Eiffel tower which has come to symbolize the city and the Louvre which is a world famous art museum which was once the residence of kings.

For great beaches head out to the Riviera where the rich and the famous hang out or for great skiing proceed to the Alps. Feeling nostalgic? Then head out to the Normandy coast where Operation Overlord of World War II began. After visiting these tourist destinations you may want to experience the nightlife of France. There are a lot of nightclubs, dance clubs, discotheques, bars and pubs for you to enjoy. The crowd is vibrant at night especially in major cities like Paris, Lyon and Marseilles. When the day ends and you head out to your bed and sleep, the following day promises a new place for you discover.

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Posted by Zubaida Khanam
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