France Holidays Tours | Travel to France Destination | France Trip Guide

The word ‘France’, alone conjures up images of royal palaces, aristocracy, Paris, French cuisine and so on. French words and phrases have in fact become part of our vocabulary. This country, which has to a large extent played a significant role in influencing the world, is located in Western Europe. Ideas such as Declaration of the Rights of Man, and Laissez- faire, are thoughts that have originated from here, at a time when a revolution against the monarchy was going on. In the 17th century, the world saw the colonizing face of France, which eventually helped it gain control of lands extending from Africa to South East Asia. Today, France holds the distinction of being one of the most developed nations in the world, with a very strong economy.

The country has a reputation for being ethnically diverse. The population is made up of people whose families have lived here for generations, Europeans from other countries as well as a small size of Asians and Africans. French influences have lived on untouched through the centuries, the French themselves having made important contributions in almost every field. The Cathedrals, basilicas and palaces of France have always been much studied for the different Gothic and Baroque styles, which they possess. Playwrights such as Racine and Moliere, influenced society to a large extent. Thinkers like Voltaire, and Rousseau contributed much to philosophy alone. Writers like Dumas, Jules Verne and Victor Hugo have enthralled generations with their novels.

The culture of France is very unique. Natives here, are extremely proud of their heritage, and language in particular. In fact getting around France is made a lot easier if one has knowledge of French or if one has a guide at all times. France alone with its basket of national monuments to see, is made even more attractive because of the scenic beauty all around. Since the French are known for their gastronomic delights, sampling their traditional cuisine is sure to be a rewarding experience. One of the best ways to begin a tour in France is to start with one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, which also has the reputation for being the most fashionable. It is often called as the ‘City of Love’-

Paris – Paris is dotted with so much to see and admire. The French man’s love and understanding of the arts can be clearly seen. There are more than 80 museums and 200 art galleries here alone. One of the oldest neighbourhoods here is the Il-de-la-cite, which is actually an island, situated at a bend on the river Seine. The Notre Dame Cathedral, which has been the subject of many books and poems is here, and one can also see the Crypte Archeologique, with many displays of the city’s early history. The Orsay Museum is a must see for art lovers as this museum has many 19th and 20th century pieces. The Palais and Jardin du Luxembourg is also worth a visit.

A visit to Paris would not be complete with seeing the Eiffel Tower and the best time to do so would be at night when the tower is completely lit up. The Louvre which is home to many world famous paintings, including the Mona Lisa, is bound to be crowded at all visiting hours but should not be missed out. The Chateau de Versailles, the famous home of Louis XIV, with its opulent interiors and architecture is a must see. Another famous landmark of Paris is the Champs- Elysess, with its many roadside cafes, and small restaurants. The world’s first Gothic Cathedral- St Denis is beautiful to see and a must if architecture is an interest.

Normandy – The Mont-Saint-Michel and the bay is a World Heritage site, and is an interesting architectural site. People from all over the world come to see the 8th century abbey located here. Normandy is famous for the beaches and museums too. A Romanesque church in Caen, and the ruins of a castle, which was built by William the Conqueror, are other sites worth visiting. A museum dealing in local crafts from the Gaelic Roman era to the present day, is worth visiting as one could find many interesting pieces there.

There is probably no place in France that does not have one monument, church or place of interest to see. It is that diversity which makes this country so appealing and exciting. In North France, a visit to Amiens, which has a huge 13th century cathedral, is time well spent. Compiegne is famous for the Royal Palace, where Napoleon himself stayed. The town of Lourdes, situated in the Midi- Pyrenees, is a world famous religious site. Millions of sick people come to visit the grotto, where miracles are believed to take place. Champagne and Ardennes, famed for producing delectable French wines the world loves are beautiful naturally scenic places to visit. One encounters forests of beech, oak and birch, while vines and fruit trees are found on the hilly slopes. One can even find religious architecture, a modern art museum and cathedrals over here.

Epernay is believed to the actual capital of the wine- champagne. Cote d Azur, which is located on the Mediterranean Coast, has many beaches, cities and villages with the mountains to complete the picturesque scenery. Cannes and Nice are located here and both are prime tourist destinations. One can indulge in many water sports also here. France offers an adventure seeker chances to enjoy many other activities besides sight seeing. The many trails on the roads exclusively marked for hikers, make hiking a real joy. One can do a spot of fishing in the lakes around Brittany and the Mid- Pyrenees. If you are a skier, a trip to the Alps, will prove to be an adventure in itself.

How does one describe a vacation in France? One is certain to have a good time, besides visiting world famous places and monuments, but above all one is certain to be mesmerized by the French, their love for living, and their beautiful country.

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