Things to do in Paris:

The first thing the do when you arrive in Paris is to breathe in deep. You must do this to take in all the history and culture in this great city. The next thing to do is walk without a map and get a great feel of the city. Now, I didn't do that because I was with a friend who always carried a map, but I wish I had. With many great historic monuments like the Pantheon, Arc de Triomphe, and great art of the Louvre, you can spend all day viewing stunning architecture without even knowing what you are looking at..

All the walking during the day will be sure to wear you out. My personal remedy for this was drinking wine. After we toured the Eiffel Tour at night when it was all lit up, we sat down by La Seine, the river running through Paris. It is okay to drink in public. Three different sets of elevators take you all the way up the historic tower.

On our travels through the rest of France, we took the eurorail. It is extremely safe and usually on time. Just like on any other trains in Europe, look out for purse snatchers. The will go in the part of the train you are in, see if you are sleeping, and if you are they may take some of your personal stuff. The country-side of france in beautiful.

Paris Adventures:

We had a great time climbing the rock in the Calanques. (middle picture above) It's a Mediterranean Fjord. There are many climbs that are very subtle and there are those that it would be a bad idea to use equipment for safety. The Sept-Isles Reserve, France's most important site for the nesting of seabirds, has been protected—and it makes for a great visit. Lying between Perros-Guirec and Trigastel in Brittany, seven islands form a small archipelago off the Côte de Granit Rose (pink granite coast). In springtime, puffins nest here, along with 12 other species of marine fowl. Board a boat run by the League for the Protection of Birds (Ligue pour la Protection des Oiseaux) and cruise among the rocky islands. Though you won't be allowed to land, there's plenty to see: razorbills, gannets, guillemots, and shags, along with gray seals.

Where to stay in Paris:

Reservations in any time other than summer are not necessary unless you are one that likes to plan. When traveling throughout France, it is definitely a lot easier to book places on the internet than no reservations at all. Without reservations, you may run the risk of going to a small French town with no hotels or one that has no vacancy.. However, there are many great hotels and deals that just do not do the internet. A lot of these places seem to be a bit more traditional.

Paris travel tips:

Because of the great public transportation. Metros in Paris and Eurorail throughout France, renting a vehicle is not necessary. It was great sitting in the train, relaxing as I saw the beautiful country-side. If you do choose to drive in France, the roads are marked well and your drive should go as planned. Do not drive in Paris. Rent your car outside of the city.

Warnings: Check U.S. Department of State and more U.S. Department notes

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