Falling in Love with the City of Lights in Paris

Anyone who has been to Paris begins to smile when the city is mentioned. A thousand writers have described her a thousand ways, and while all of the lofty descriptions are true, there is still something quite magical about this city that simply must be experienced to be understood.

Any time of year is a good time to visit this city, but the springtime is possibly the best of all. The city begins to reawaken after winter and the sights seem fresher, the coffee stronger, and people friendlier.

Of course, the Eiffel Tower is unmissable. Originally built as a temporary structure to celebrate the milennium of 1900, it has since been reinforced and kept, to the bemusement of many Parisians and the delight of most visitors. While most visitors take the elevator the top (€15), some climb the stairs. Neither of these things is necessary however, as the view tends to be hampered by the safety cages, as well as the other tourists.

The Louvre is next. This famous art gallery is home to the Venus de Milo and of course, the Mona Lisa, who is rather smaller than expected. Getting in to the Louvre can be a little confusing, as the entrance is in the middle of the square and there are no signs. Just join the long queue.

Walking around Paris is really the best way to explore. Despite it's enormous reputation, the city is surprisingly compact, as long as you are wearing comfortable shoes. If not, hop on and off the Metro (clean, fast and efficient) when you have bought your carnet of tickets (a book of ten costs around €13). Maps are readily available, and the whole system makes sense even if you don't speak the language.

Despite the stereotype, Parisians are much warmer than most other city-dwellers in the world, and if you need any help you will be surprised at how readily it is offered. Most Parisians speak English (even the beggars are bi- or tri-lingual!) and will be willing to give you directions.
Looking around the Notre Dame Cathedral, strolling downs the Champs Elysees or taking yet another photo of the Arc de Triomphe, cost nothing and are such a giddy thrill that it is easy to drop any snobbery you may have about being a tourist. A wander through the Paris Opera House will cost around €7 but is definitely worth it, especially if there are no rehearsals or performances on and you can explore the gilt and velvet auditorium.

If you are visiting from the US and are feeling a little home-sick, head off the beaten path to Ile aux Cygnes (Swans Island) in front of the Pont de Grenelle. Here you will find the Statue of Liberty, facing West towards the US, and her sister in New York City.

During the summer months of July and August, the City of Paris operates a 'beach' on the River Seine. Distributing deck-chairs, umbrellas and games, the local council also close the area off the traffic. Sand is trucked in (makes the volleyball games more fun) and seeing Parisians lounging around in bikinis in the middle of the city is something of an eyebrow-raiser.

Hotels in Paris range from the ultra-budget (€20 - €50 per night for hostels and cheap hotels) to the ultra-luxurious (over €1500 per night for an old-world luxury suite). Most double rooms sell for around €80 - €130 per night.

Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder on the left to find cheap hotels in Paris.