There are a handful of hotels in London and Paris that have obtained landmark status in the minds of locals and travelers alike. Considered timeless classics, these hotels enjoy outsized reputations and are known for their over-the-top service, regal decorative flourishes, aura of exclusivity, and their priced-for-a-prince rack rates. If you're checking in, chances are you're prepared to not quibble over cost; you're there for the experience of it all.... Have you slept in any of the hotels mentioned below? Tell us about your stay—would you do it again? What other hotels would you nominate for this list?... We've also included ideas for experiencing a sliver of these old dames' magic without acquiring a room key and trivia to keep in mind if...
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Most major tourist destinations are teeming with gift shops full of cheap souvenirs. Unfortunately, these items don't usually succeed at capturing the essence of a destination for you. On the lookout for a meaningful souvenir? Try pairing your purchase with a unique experience that you're bound to remember long after your trip ends. For starters, here are some suggestions for fun and interesting experiences and souvenirs to be had in three of Europe's most visited capitals: Paris, London, and Rome.... (More)
On July 1, 2009, the VAT (Value Added Tax) in French restaurants was reduced from 19.6% to 5.5% to try to help out the suffering restaurant industry. Some (but not all) Paris restaurants are passing along the savings to their customers by lowering prices—but some restaurateurs have reported that they'll be using the extra proceeds for renovations or to hire more staff instead....
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There are so many ways to eat well in Paris but still save money: eat picnics, spend your restaurant euros at lunch instead of dinners, have your latté at the counter instead of at a table...You'll save money and probably have a more authentic Parisian experience, too....From the Forums: "I would second the suggestion to 'reste au comptoir' in a café, vs. sitting at a table. You will save a few coins, and it's a great experience." -- petitepois (more)... (More)
If seeing Julie & Julia has inspired a trip to Paris—or if you're already going—visiting Julia Child's haunts will help you experience the city as she did. Some restaurants, markets, and shops below are featured in the movie. Others she writes about in her autobiography, My Life in France....
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Not all of Paris heads to the south of France during July and August, and those who stay spend time enjoying dozens of free outdoor events that take place in the city's serene parks, gardens, and sizzling streets. Here's a round up of our favorites, from now until the rentrée (return), which marks Parisians' official end of summer....
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Some Paris museums have reduced fees on Sunday and on extended-hour days if you go in the evening. Keep closing days in mind. Most museums are closed one day a week, usually Monday or Tuesday....Related Links... Browse our online guide to Paris... (More)
Some of Paris's public routes are fantastically scenic; hop on the right one and you can get a great tour for just €1.60--sans squawking commentary. Our favorites include:... No. 29 - Runs primarily on small streets, not major arteries...No. 69 - Tour Eiffel, Quartier Latin, Rive Droite, Bastille...No. 72 - Follows the Seine past the Louvre and most of the big-name Rive Droite sights...No. 73 - Champs-Elysées from the Arc de Triomphe to the Musée d'Orsay... Related links:...Interactive map of bus system...From the Forums: Just Back from Paris: Thanks for help with bus routes...Help with Paris bus routes needed... (More)
The streets of Paris are lined with enticing-looking bakeries, chocolate shops and pastry stores. So how can you identify the very best places to spend your Euros (and calories)? Here's a sure-fire way to choose.... (More)
Our forums are currently hopping with a slew of giddy questions related to Paris. Apparently quite a few people are taking advantage of the recent price drop in European fares!... What a time to go. The City of Light is beautiful in all seasons, especially spring. To help out all those heading to Paris in the coming weeks, we present you with a few of our favorite outdoor activities.... Shortcuts: Fodor's Online Paris Guide | France Trip Reports...