Posts Tagged ‘holidays in France’

An Introduction to the Cities of France

Posted in France on January 24th, 2011 by admin – 918 Comments

city breaks

Paris is the capital of France and is 1 of the most stunning and romantic cities in the world. Throughout the last century, it has grown rapidly and now is house to nearly 1-fifth of the nation’s total population. To quite a few traffic, the city itself is like a museum. But the city does not have the claustrophobic really feel of quite a few significant cities as you will generally be close to 1 of its lots of gardens or a tree lined boulevard. Despite the size of the city it is especially simple to get around and go to all the main attractions. Paris centre itself is comparatively compact and the surrounding areas of Paris are connected by a extremely efficient public transport system, which consists of an underground Metro system and an over-ground suburban rail network. If you plan to go to other significant cities in France Paris is also the hub of the significantly acclaimed TGV rail system which provides routes to all the significant regions of France.

Preferred tourist attractions in Paris contain the Eiffel Tower built between the years 1887-1889, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Bastille and the Louvre, the residence of da Vinci’s well-known painting the ‘Mona Lisa’. If you merely want to take in the ambience of this amazing city, then a stroll along the Champs-Élysées or a boat cruise is known as for. The night life, with the world well-known cabarets including the Moulin Rouge, Lido and Crazy Horse, provide a rich selection of entertainment. You will locate restaurants supplying fine cuisine in all price ranges all over the city, and the food and service in the smaller bar-brassieres is a match to them all.

Lille

Lille is 1 of the key cities of France, located in the north in the France it is also a main visitors hub with significant autoroutes and rail links all passing through it. The Eurostar makes an necessary halt here and offers high speed trains with countless other essential destinations in France so it\’s an effortless destination to go to. Lille and its surrounding area have a special style. It can be seen as some thing between those of the Flemish and the baroque. Since the 17th century Lille has been enlarged 3 times, giving the town its present day look, which is that of a comparatively new town

It is also referred to as 1 of the friendliest cities in France. In this component of France, you’ll notice a especially strong local accent, the people today also recognized to like a beer or 3. Thousands of traffic descend on Lille for its annual flea marketplace where all the streets are occupied with stands selling anything and every thing.

Lyon

Lyon is the third largest city in France. The city is of geographical and economical significance, and is a key centre of company. It has the reputation of being the French capital of gastronomy and is registered as a World Heritage website. Communication links to Lyon are a lot of as it has developed an impressive infrastructure, such as an ultra-modern Metro system, two key line stations that play host to the TGV train system, and has an international airport.

But do not overlook Lyon thinking it is simply a cloned organization city that you obtain all over the world. This French city is full of Roman attractions, which includes a amazing amphitheatre, history, incredible restaurants and a fantastic shopping area. The Rhône and Saône rivers flow through the city and the Roman ruins and other historic attractions can be discovered on the appropriate bank of the Saone. The fertile valleys of the two rivers and the surrounding steep hillsides have been discovered to be perfect for wine production, yet another introduction of the Romans..

Marseille

Marseille is 1 of the most exhilarating cities in France, providing a mix of cultures and races, and some of the very best restaurants in the country. Marseille is 1 of France’s oldest cities dating back a lot more than 2000 years. Marseille was 1 of the ancient Mediterranean ports and played an crucial component in maritime history, and has now grown into a significant cosmopolitans city. With two ports, there functions have been divided, the new port handles the cargo visitors, whilst the old port generally employed to be the scene for pleasure cruises and a wonderful place to have a drink and watch the world go by.

Toulouse

Located in the region of Midi-Pyrenees, the provincial city of Toulouse, with its stunning historic centre, is 1 of the most vibrant and metropolitan in France. The city is set half way between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The Pyrenees Mountains are to the south and mark the border between France and Spain. As well as being a well located historic city it has developed into the residence for significant high-tech businesses, which includes the French Space study program SNIAS.

For food lovers Toulouse is no distinct to the rest of France, it has it\’s own local delicacy in the “Saucisse de Toulouse”, a conventional sausage made with pork, smoked bacon and red wine. An additional local specialty is the Cassoulet, well worth try. It is made with beans in a tomato sauce and distinct meats

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is 1 of the most essential cities in south-western France and is in the region of Aquitaine. It is the capital of what is likely the most well-known wine producing region in the world. Surprisingly Bordeaux goes somewhat unnoticed by tourists, as the agreeable climate and rich history make this thriving city an fascinating place to explore. It provides all the culture and shopping that you would anticipate from a huge and sophisticated city associated with the centuries old wine trade. It also boasts vinotherapie (wine therapy) spas. A youthful culture abounds in Bordeaux as the influx of college students inject it with a young attitude that contrasts and complements its rich history. The city has an abundance of pavement cafés and bars where you can appreciate the divine food of the region accompanied by 1 of the fabulous Bordeaux wines. Bordeaux is, very just combines a luscious, lively and beautiful way of life.

It is difficult to imagine that Bordeaux was once component the English kingdom. The French retook possession, in the 15th century, but then was left to decline for additional than 200 years. Prosperity did not return to the city until Louis XI came to the throne and installed a parliament.

David Elliot writes for TravelEden, a web site offering listings for rental farmhouses, bed and breakfasts, and holiday apartments in Burgundy.

Family Cycling Holidays in France

Posted in France on December 16th, 2010 by admin – 884 Comments

holidays in france

Cyclists of all abilities can look forward to some wonderful scenery whilst on a cycling holiday in France, along with experiencing standard French cuisine in the lots of hotels you stop at on your travels by way of the scenic countryside.

France is a country that is particularly enthusiastic about cycling, as we are all no doubt well conscious with the Tour de France, and they have made it ever so quick to explore the countryside and cities on two wheels, with dedicated cycle paths and routes all around.

Cycling holidays will offer you peace and tranquility with wonderful views of countryside, chateaux, medieval towns, hilltops, valleys and gorges and these are just some of issues that you would effortlessly miss out on if you had been driving by way of France, and with the rich heritage, extraordinary landscapes and the gastronomic delights can all be appreciated much more whilst cycling, particularly since of the extensive national network of veloroutes.

These veloroutes will take you along canal towpaths, quiet country lanes and converted railway lines as well as obtaining you into the heart of the countryside by utilizing voies vertes, also recognized as green methods, which are particularly designated tracks that are totally shut to motorised visitors, you can even hire your cycle en route from 1 of lots of places-velos that line the key cycling routes.

You can still uncover areas in France that are so peaceful, it is rare to see a auto, yet you could possibly be passed by a couple of particularly passionate cyclists! Stopping for lunch and experiencing the local cuisine and of course the local wine is ought to and you can frequently uncover fortified villages scattered along the hill-tops and valleys for the most pleasant of stops.

Or if you prefer to have your trip organised then why not let the hoteliers transport your luggage by discovering establishments that provide an “accueil velo” which are hotels and bed and breakfasts that cater particularly for cycling holidays throughout France.

With a French Alps cycling holiday you can’t go wrong, as you will be able to uncover some of the Worlds most spectacular cycling routes, with climbs like the world well-known Col de la Croix der Fer and Alpe d’Huez around Grenoble. But as well as the Alps, cycling in the Pyrenees with its mountain climbs such as the Col de Portet d’Aspet and the Col d’Aspin will give you with the opportunity to see some of Europe’s most gorgeous places. Even though these are not for the feint hearted! If you have ever watched the Tour de France, you will have seen some of those mean mountainous routes and the suffering these cyclists go by way of, yet maybe this could possibly be just the sort of holiday you are searching for!

Also, the Midi-Pyrenees provides a wealth of art and history from prehistoric cave paintings to Renaissance mansions and is also well-known throughout France for its cuisine which is rich with foies gras, Roquefort cheese, Gaillac wines, and Armagnac brandy, but to make the most of this area, it is regularly advisable to plan your cycling holiday extremely carefully, so that you can get pleasure from the numerous distinctive locations en route.

Yet if mountain biking and going on strenuous cycling routes via the mountains is not you, then do not worry, there are a lot of other areas in France that will cater for the novice or the family cycling holiday, just like Brittany, this area is perfect for a family cycling holiday, as the coastal routes along the bays are reasonably flat, making the trip simpler, whereas the Loire is far more undulating, yet fabulous chateaux and riverside towns will enthral you and the family on your travels.

What about the Poitou-Charentes area, which is an outstanding option for those who love wildlife and bird watching, as the area is still very rural, even compared to some of the other areas in France and Burgundy is a wonderful place to cycle along the a large number of canal paths.

Then there is the Dordogne which is particularly picturesque, and from the rivers and gorges by means of to forests and vineyards, this area offers such a diversity you will take pleasure in the entire experience from the commence to finish of your holiday.

Mind you, with a cycling holiday organised for you, there is no must worry about where you will stop for a break or lunch or where you will be staying, which means you do not have to have your panniers full to the brim, as all your belongings are transported on for you, ready and waiting for when you arrive at your next stop, plus if you choose to add in other activities, such as canoeing and horse riding as well, then your bikes will be transported to your next stop and you will be picked up at a specified location.

So whether or not you are a cycling enthusiast or a novice with a family, France is a wonderful destination to explore on your bike.

www.placesinfrance.com

Martyn Davis European Traveller, Author, Photographer and Organization Development Manager, for all your French holiday requirements and travel guide to France, with tourist info, landmarks and attractions – Family Cycling Holidays In France

Holidays in France Will Offer Memorable Experiences

Posted in France on May 19th, 2010 by admin – 448 Comments

vacations in France

Picking to take your holidays in France is a amazing opportunity and an adventure filled with memories positive to last a lifetime. When Picking where to invest a holiday, there are a number of locations that Provide exciting tour destinations, amazing cuisine, and great history.

The top of the list of locations to go for a number of individuals consists of France as a destination. Read on to discover why you need to contemplate going there for your next vacation to discover all of the amazing issues this remarkable destination has to Supply.

Numerous who have taken holidays in France are thrilled with every thing the trip has to Provide: from the indisputable local food all over the country, to the very rich and detailed history that pervades the entire country. There are a number of great techniques to pass the time, from enjoying tours of historical web sites, to experiencing local foods no matter where you are located. A number of of the ideal recognized web sites in the capital city, Paris, are the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Even though you are at it, why not stop in a le Louvre and see the actual Mona Lisa?

When spending time in France, it is also necessary to invest some time in the world-renowned countryside. No trip is complete with out spending time in France’s well-known cities, but the country has some thing unique to Supply even the most seasoned traveler. There are amazing, ancient homes and even castles that one can rent overnight or for months at a time. Spending time living in the French countryside is an experience that is challenging to describe, but it is surely some thing that you will want to experience when you travel there, even if only for a couple of days.

One of the undisputed delights of traveling in France is the wonderful array of culinary delights that await you, no matter which component of the country you settle into. In this country food is taken very seriously, which means that you, as a guest, will surely be treated to the finest of what they have to Provide. From fresh baked breads and pastries to local wines and champagnes, there will surely be an endless selection of foods to please you.

Overall, there are lots of issues that make taking holidays in France an awesome idea. From the amazing history that the country has, to all of the fantastic tourist internet sites it provides, it is an fantastic location to go to. The food is beyond great, and the individuals themselves are warm, hospitable, and very proud to share all that they have to Provide. So pick France as your next travel destination. You will be glad that you did.

Are you searching for facts on UK ferry services? Be certain to go to my site for complete facts on Portsmouth to Caen and Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry service.

Great Value – Sunny Holidays in France 2010

Posted in France on May 3rd, 2010 by admin – 613 Comments

Carcassonne

Are you fed up of the British weather, rain all summer and now freezing all winter. Global warming could be melting the North Pole but its not bringing sunshine to the British shoreline. Are you contemplating cost-effective selections, if so, for a lot of men and women the alternative of holidays in France for 2010 has to be worth contemplating. Especially if you want value for dollars and a chance of decent sunny weather.

Clearly the further South you go the greater the odds you have for that decent weather. You also have a couple of selections for acquiring there at an reasonably priced price; quite a few spending budget airlines fly into the airports located in the South of France. Locations like Toulouse, Carcassonne, Perpignan, Rodez or Bezieres. Every 1 either on or within simple travel distance of the Mediterranean coastline.

Alternatively you can drive down, countless of the cross channel ferries are very competitively priced and reasonably priced, or of course you have the alternative of the channel tunnel for a quicker crossing.

Once over the water you can be in Toulouse in as small as 9 to 10 hours later. If that sounds a small lengthy, Particularly with children in tow, then what countless persons do is to take benefit of the choice to stop off on route. Hotels in France are very affordable and often charge on a room basis extremely than per person.

Orleons, Tours or even Paris give Excellent facilities for a stop off and are all fascinating Locations to go to, even Paris is nearly half way, from a time perspective. Of course by driving you save on the price of a hire car and it gives you the flexibility to have a bit of a tour around on route and to see a couple of much more Locations of interest. Having a Sat Nav, as most people today do these days, can offer you the confidence to explore a small and the opportunity to stay away from the ‘Peage’ (toll roads). You would be amazed how a number of dual carriages or very Very good ‘A’ roads there are heading your direction with hardly any visitors on them.

Once you arrive in the sunny South of France, there are a lot of opportunities to get your self a reasonable priced self catering cottage or apartment, typically with a pool out there for exclusive use.

A holiday cottage or apartment in France is referred to as a gite and quite a few of them are owned and run by English or English speaking owners. The standards of these varieties of gites have changed over the years, select the correct ones and they can be very comfortable with fully fitted kitchens, nice comfortable bedrooms and a lot of bathrooms. Additional of a house from house, than a ‘make do well you are away’ experience.

The advantage of having these facilities on hand means that you can select to cook and eat in, incredibly than at the restaurants; only if you prefer that of course. Also you can acquire from the local Aldi or Lidl, they have a policy of stocking local produce, such as wine and cheeses at very reasonable costs and, for the wine anyway, significantly less expensive than the UK for comparable top quality. So you can manage your spending budget precisely how you want to.

If you do choose to eat out then taking a leisurely lunch is commonly a greater choice than an evening meal. You can select a set menu, which commonly consists of a glass of wine, so you know precisely what you are paying for and the lunchtime menus are significantly less expensive than for an evening meal. I have seen lunchtime menus of this sort for as small as EUR11 per person locally here in Languedoc Roussillon.

So the bottom line is, yes the traveling prices could be much more than they are in the UK, but if you plan your holiday around taking benefit of all the Very good deals readily available, and the price of accommodation in France versus the UK. Then you will possibly locate that you will spend less for holidays in France than you would for holidays in the UK; plus you have an Good chance of acquiring some sunshine to go with it.

We now live and work in Languedoc Roussillon running a firm offering Holidays in France, travel guidance and an on the net travel shop.

For additional of a personal look at our French Life you can go to our blog known as ‘Life in the France Lane where you will obtain even far more information and facts about Locations to go to and issues to do in France.