Zoos- are they worth it?
 

My husband and I will soon be going to Paris and London for the first time. We have 4 days in each city and usually visit the zoo of any new city we encounter. Is it worth it to spend time at the zoo in either city?

The animals don't think so!!!

You'd be better off visiting Africa, and supporting animals in their natural habitat. <BR>

I've not been to the Paris zoo, but I have been to the London zoo in Regent Park [8 years ago]. At that time it was exceptional in its arrangements and habitats. It was well worth the visit.

For some of us, life changes our view of things. When I was a child, going to the zoo was an adventure, a time of joy and wonder. Now in my eighth decade, a trip to a zoo fills me with sadness for the animals, and yet I see the faces of children (and my grandchild's) and know that there is some joy to be gleaned from this exercise in captivity. If you are big on zoos, my choice of all choices would be San Diego's Wild Animal Park. Most European zoos -- and I've seen many -- are Victorian cages. I take that back. Berlin is above average, and so is London's zoo in Regents Park. But as for the rest, they should be closed out of respect for freedom of our (and God's) fellow creatures.

Diane:I'm not an "animal rights" person,I simply prefer to avoid zoos(bad smells,etc).IMO a first time visit to London (only 4 days)offers too many other possibilities.