texstout

We are going to London Dec 25-2nd and were wondering if we should spend New Year's Eve in either London or Paris. We were contemplating taking the Eurostar either early in the trip or the last couple of days to Paris.

While I know there is tons to do just in London, we were thinking of breaking the trip up for a couple days in Paris. I've been to London (although my husband has not) several times in the last couple years, but neither of us have never been to Paris. Keep in mind...we'll want to go eat somewhere nice, peoplewatch, and enjoy the overall scene. I will be several months pregnant by then, so no party imbiding for me this time though, although I am hoping it still be early enough that I'll be energetic!

Thanks

flanneruk

On the basis of your brief, I really can't recommend London.

People watching on the NYE streets of London might be fun for a misanthrope who wants her prejudices confirming. But if you're not able to drink you'll be the only one sober, and the crowds watching the fireworks along the Thames (not to mention trying to get into the tube stations afterwards) are absolutely not the right place for anyone pregnant.

So it's down to booking into a restaurant for an overpriced elaborate meal. And that's what Paris seems to specialise in.

valtor

I totally agree with Flanneruk. I was once at New Year's Eve at London and I did not like - too many people in the metro, too much noises, too many people drinking on the streets... is not for you if you are pregnant.

I was not in Paris at end of Dec., so I do not know how is, however as you did not visit it yet, for sure you will like it. I think that you have to book in advance a nice restaurant

CopperandJade

Paris, without hesitation. There are infinite restaurants, bistros, brasseries for your New Year's Eve celebration, from modest to exorbitant. Even a small,modest family restaurant could be a delightful experience. And after dinner perhaps a walk along the Seine, a ride on one of their boats, a drink in one of the bars that overlook Paris ( the Georges, Pomidou or La Tour Montparnasse)...very beautiful.

"So its down to booking into a restaurant for an elaborate overpriced meal. And that's what Paris seems to specialize in."

---???--- I have always found London to be FAR more expensive than Paris ( restaurants esp., hotels, apartments, taxis etc.).

For New year's Eve I would be seduced by a refreshing shift of culture, a shift which would enhance "un cafe", let alone a New Year's repast. The amount that you drink is unimportant. But if you decide to go to Paris, research now and reserve.

Another thought: You could reserve a room with kitchen facilities (ie. Citadine hotels) and a "room with a view" view. Go to market that afternoon for provisions for your feast and don't forget the champagne. Spend a glorious day and evening exploring Paris, then "home" for a midnight feast, overlooking the lights of Paris.

PalenQ

I was in London NYE a few years back and nothing especial was happening because that year Red Ken told everybody to stay away - actually discouraging anyone coming into London.

London does have a New Years Day American style parade with American school bands, pom-pom squads, etc.

Paris would be my choice