Visiting Paris

The Famous Paris Metro

There are so many reasons to visit Paris, it’s hard to know where to start! Below are some of the top reasons that I keep on going back:

Architecture in Paris

From the moment you arrive in the city, you are blown away by the beautiful architecture. I’ll never forget my first trip up the Eiffel Tower – you can’t find those amazing panoramic views anywhere else. That’s not to mention the views from the Sacré Cœur, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe – you almost forget the beauty you are standing on! The work that has gone into these still leaves me astounded even though I’ve seen them dozens of times before.

Art in Paris

Paris is littered with museums and galleries, making it a haven for art lovers. The two that are an absolute must-see are the Louvre (of course) and the Musee d’Orsay. You can see the fruits of the impressionist, post-impressionist and art nouveau movements, as well as viewing some of the most famous pieces of work from Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Botticelli and Titian. I still visit them whenever I’m there – I just can’t seem to get enough!

Shopping in Paris

If you’re a shopaholic like me you’ll love what Paris has to offer in that department! For designer labels like Cartier, Dior and Chanel, you need to visit Rue du Cherche-Midi and Rue de Grenelle. If you’re like me and can’t quite stretch to that, then move onto the Champs-Elysees where you can find slightly more affordable stores like Zara, GAP and H&M. The one place you have to go though is Paris’ flea markets – they’re great for picking up bargains and unusual treasures.

Food and Drink in Paris

French cuisine is one of the best reasons to visit Paris – they hit the mark every time with their mouth-watering food. I would love to be able to cook like that. And yes, you have to try a snail or two – they really don’t taste as bad as they sound! It’s not just the food either – Paris’ restaurants and cafes are often an attraction in themselves. I suggest sipping a chilled glass of Sancerre while sitting outdoors on a long summer evening.

Entertainment in Paris

See Paris at night and you will never forget it. The monuments, statues and streets are all magically illuminated – it’s not called the ‘City of Light’ for nothing! There are lots of entertainment options from bars and clubs to theatres – the Moulin Rouge being my own personal favourite. Last time I was there, I saw a Cancan show under low red lighting – it was just like the 1920s! Definitely a night to remember.

These are only a handful of the delights that Paris has to offer. If you haven’t been already, get yourself over there and discover this amazing city for yourself!

Disneyland Paris - New Generation Festival

The idea of meeting your favourite Disney characters provokes excitement and a smile, even in the oldest of fans.  I just can’t wait for The New Generation Festival! The colourful and fun theme this year puts all of the newest animated characters firmly in the spotlight. You can mix with all of the characters, watch parades and visit the new theme parks, making anyone feel like a kid again – I know it will certainly re-awaken my inner child and I just can’t wait.

I will be looking out for the cheeky characters from Toy Story, who are thought to be the main new attraction this April, followed closely by Princess Tiana and her Prince Naveen from the up-and-coming Princess and the Frog movie. I don’t know about you but I’ve watched that movie a dozen times since it came out! I can’t wait to see them sat alongside my other favourite Disney princes and princesses on the Dreams of Romance parade float! Not forgetting the comical rats Rémy and Emile from Ratatouille, the cuddly Monster, Sulley, from Monsters Inc and the quirky but adorable Stitch from Lilo and Stitch!

New Attractions Include:

• Toy Story Parachute Drop
• Slink Dog Zigzag Spin
• RC Racer

Don’t worry, old favourites Mickey and Minnie will still there on their party floats. The magic of this pair never dies and it is mad to think they are so old! I wonder what it would be like to be in one of those costumes bringing delight to every child’s face and being a part of the magic that is Disney!

New Generation Festival

The trick to having an amazing time is to not be afraid to admit you love Disney movies and their characters – everyone does! Take the family and you’ll have an excuse – my little niece loves Disney! We are both counting down the days (well mainly me!) to the New Generation Festival and all the magical new characters!

Click on the link to see more information on the New Generation Festival at Disneyland Paris.

WWII Victory Parade

WWII Victory Day (or ‘Fête de la Victoire 1945′) marks the anniversary of the end of World War II on 8 May. It celebrates the day the Allies formally accepted the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany, and the end of Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich. Outside of France, we probably know it as ‘VE Day’ (Victory in Europe Day).

It might be just a day, but there is also quite a build-up to the Fête de la Victoire. In the period leading up to 8 May, schools, colleges and universities in France study the history of the Nazi oppression and World War II. This is considered very important because it ensures every generation is aware of the sacrifices made during the war and how it affects modern society and French freedom today.

Victory Day is a public holiday in France, so if you try to do some shopping you won’t get very far! Post offices, banks and most businesses are closed, as well as restaurants and cafes outside of the main tourist areas. If you’re desperate, don’t despair – some stores and bakeries do remain open. However, public transport is nearly always disrupted because some roads are closed for parades, particularly in Paris.

Being the capital of France, Paris is the place to be if you want to see the most spectacular Victory Day celebrations. French flags and bunting are displayed everywhere, as well as the flags of all the other European nations (it is all about peace, after all). The best bits are the parades, which include grand processions of smartly dressed soldiers playing brass instruments and drums.

Victory Day in Paris

WWII Victory Day is an exciting and educational day out for everyone – even kids will enjoy it. In my opinion, there’s nothing quite like having breakfast in Paris and then watching the victory march along the Champs Elysees. Because it’s in May, the weather is usually quite nice as well, with spring well and truly taking effect. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the end of the war.