How to Enjoy Paris in 12 Hours

   
12 hours may sound too short to tour Paris but if you have a long layover, you can actually enjoy the best of Paris if you know what to do. What you really want to do depends on your interest. But Paris is full of delightful historical attractions, excellent food and lively entertainment spots to choose from.

Tour EIffel, Paris

The Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral

If you love exploring historical attractions, then the best place to start is the Notre Dame Cathedral located in the eastern half of Paris. Regarded as one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame houses some of the finest specimens of the Neo-Gothic periods including paintings, sculptures and furniture.

You can climb atop the North Tower to enjoy a bird eye's view of Paris. The view is particularly breathtaking at sunset when you can see enjoy the beauty of the famed stained glass windows.

The Cathedral is open to visitors from 6:45 am until 7:45 pm in the evening. If you're interested in exploring the crypt, you have to visit between 10:00 am and 6 pm but you might want to remember that the crypt is closed on Mondays.

Admissions are charged at roughly $10 plus another $4.30 for the crypt. Children under the age of 14 are allowed free entry. You can also request a free guided tour of the Cathedral at the information desk.

Cafe Panis

Café Panis, Paris

If you get hungry after your tour of Notre Dame, there is this wonderful cafe right across the street from the Notre Dame called the 'Cafe Panis'. This is a popular cafe that offers a spectacular view of the Notre Dame and an excellent menu. Prices may a little on the higher side (be prepared to pay more for food than you would in the US) but the experience is worth it.

The Louvre

The Louvre, Paris

No trip to Paris, whether short or long, is complete without paying a visit to the Louvre Museum. The Louvre is situated on the banks of River Seine and the building itself is as fascinating as the priceless collection it houses. The collection includes some of the finest paintings like the famed Mona Lisa among many others.

The massive museum spans an impressive 15 acres and displays close to 35,000 pieces of art. The Louvre is open everyday of the week except on Tuesdays. The timings run from 9 am in the morning until 6 pm in the evening. On Wednesdays and Fridays, closing times are extended until 9:45 pm. Tickets to view the Louvre is roughly about $20 for a full pass. If you're under the age of 18, you go in free.

Cafe Diane

Café Diane, Paris

There are plenty of picturesque cafes and restaurants close to the Louvre. You might want to try Cafe Diane, that overlooks the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens. You can choose from a long list of delicious foods. Choices include salads, hot main courses, pies and sandwiches.

Top Must-Try French Foods

Croque Monsieur

You must try what is called 'Croque Monsieur'; this is a grilled ham and cheese sandwich that has cheese melted on the sides as well as on top. The 'Croque Madame' is a variation that also contains egg. You can also try ordering what is called 'Confit de canard' or pan fried duck served hot with potatoes.

The Boeuf Bourguignon

If you're feeling homesick for a good old steak, opt for the French avatar, the 'Boeuf Bourguignon'; this is succulent beef cooked in red wine and served with a side platter of bacon, mushrooms and onions. If you're partial to seafood, then you may want to try the 'Plateau de Fruits de Mer'; a delicious blend of prawns, oysters, crab and shellfish.

The Moulin Rouge Cabaret is worth a visit if you are visiting Paris at night. They have shows starting at 9 pm and 11 pm but the tickets are pretty steep at roughly $90; this does include half a champagne bottle. If you're lucky enough to visit in summer, you can attend free music concerts from late June at several places in Paris.

How to Get Around in Paris

The best and most economical way to get around is to purchase a one day pass. Paris has at least 300 metro stations which can take you wherever you want.

You can do a lot of exploring in Paris in 12 hours but remember to invest in travel insurance as a precaution against loss and theft of baggage as well as other contingencies that may arise.

By Nirupama N Raghavan  |   Submitted On October 31, 2013

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River Cruises - Italy's Waterways From Venice to Mantua

Italy is a country with many faces. One is visible best river cruises Waterways of Italy offer a unique perspective on this beautiful country and take visitors on a journey between the islands, coastal villages and beautiful countryside. Po and the Bianco Canal are appropriate channel for cruises from Venice and the islands of the Venetian lagoon, winding past picturesque villages, Renaissance gardens and sumptuous palaces, and finally reach the poetic city of Mantua. There are many sites on a trip - the country is rich in culture and landscape - but below are some of the most beautiful.

Venice

Venice,Italy

Venice is the city of canals, the Queen of the Adriatic, the Venetian - and there is no finer city set on river cruises. The jewel of the best in Italy crossed by boat and on foot. Start sliding along the Giudecca Canal, Chiesa del Redentore, Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute and the Punta della Dogana past. One can walk through the gardens of the Biennale of Modern Art, admiring the boats and gondolas moorings Doge Pavilion in the Marine Museum, and visit the church of San Pietro di Castello.

Chioggia

Chioggia, Italy

The picturesque village of parts Goldoni, Chioggia is located in the Venetian coast. Like Venice, which is structurally defined by its canals and narrow streets and medieval churches and the cathedral are quite lovely. It is a very special show for visitors in river cruises: the fishing industry in Italy is a house in Chioggia one of the most important markets in the country fish. About 30 individual stalls selling locally caught sea bass, scallops, sardines, anchovies and slipper lobsters (a highly recommended crustacean).

Ferrara

Ferrara, Italy

In the Po di Volano, an arm of the Po River, is the Renaissance city of Ferrara. This is definitely a must-see as the Renaissance left a beautiful mark on the city. Visitors can see for themselves the frescoes of the 15th century palace Schifanoja allegorically representing months and life of Duke Borso d'Este, and the 14th century Estense Castle, with its tower-top marble loggias and balconies, surrounded by a pit in the center of the city. You may even have time to try the signature dish of the city, cappellacci di Zucca.

Mantua

Mantua, Italy

Mantua makes a memorable end to river cruises. Italy ancient poet Virgil, who wrote the Aeneid, which established the existing mythical Italy in Mediterranean history, was born in a village near Mantua. He is commemorated by a statue in the Piazza Virgilio lake. Other former residents include famous artists Donatello and Mantegna. The architectural glory of the city is the 14th century Palazzo Ducale di Mantova, the palace complex, baroque and neoclassical buildings connected by courtyards and gardens 15. The Hall of Mirrors, Bed Rivers, magnificent frescoes and paintings 12,000 leaves traces in the memory of visitors.

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Exploring the Lakes and Hot Springs of Coron, Palawan, Philippines

There are many reasons that people like Coron, a town in Palawan, Philippines. With its pristine beaches and pleasant waters, it's no wonder that tourists from around the world visit the city every year.Coron has seven lakes. Kayangan Lake, the most famous city of lakes, is said to be one of the cleanest lakes in Asia. Tourists will also find many islands with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, ideal for sunbathing, snorkeling, deep sea fishing and wreck diving.

Palawan Island

If you are looking for an adventure, Coron Island is a must-visit destination. His own nationally recognized Lake Kayangan Lake, its Japanese shipwrecks Forbes Traveler Magazine listed, Coron has many beautiful things to offer. Here are some of them:

Kayangan Lake

Siete Pecados

Siete Pecados is a famous diving spot in Coron. As celebrities from around the world visit the site, it became even more popular. Seven Sins legends are told again and again. A popular legend is about seven sisters who followed their parents to the main island. Drowned in the way and where they drowned were seven small islands.

Maquinit Hot Springs

Maniquit Hot Springs

After a day of adventure and the delicious food, the Hot Springs Maquinit and give you a soothing respite advantage. Considered one of the few hot springs in Asia, Maquinit Hot Springs have a number of saltwater pools. It is a half hour drive from the city center and Coron hills. Visitors will find a pleasure to soak in the hot tub with water from the nearby mountains. The water temperature varies from 38 to 40 degrees Celsius,may feel a little awkward at first. As your body gets used to the temperature, however, you can relax and enjoy the experience. Tourists often visit the hot springs after taking the challenge to step 700 in Mt. Tapyas. For many, there is no better way to end a beautiful day in the city, but a dip in Maquinit Hot Springs to soothe tired muscles, joints and bones.

Barracuda Lake

Barracuda Lake

Twenty minutes from the island of Coron, you can see the breathtaking view that is worth taking a picture of. What makes Barracuda Lake Worth, besides being an excellent diving spot, is that changes in the saltwater to freshwater to brackish, depending on the depth that fluctuations in water temperature, which could reach up to 38 ° C, is notable, too. Tour guides advise visitors to wear a good pair of shoes,like the rise of 25m could be difficult and time consuming.

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Tourism in Brazil... a major industry

Tourism is becoming a major industry in Brazil, particularly as the 2014 FIFA World Cup™, to which it is host, draws ever closer. Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are two of the most visited destinations in the country, offering visitors (whether in the country on business or pleasure) a fabulous peek into the complex heritage and natural spectacle of Brazil. Tourism rates sky-rocketed from the year 2000 onwards as awareness of its multifaceted appeal rose. There was a period between 2006 and 2008 that economic issues hindered the tourism industry somewhat. However, Brazil is the most visited country in the continent of South America today.

While the major draw-cards to Brazil continue to be its unique cultural integrity coupled with its absolute beauty, it is also a viable business-related destination. Services, industry and agriculture make up the vast majority of its annual GDP, and ensure that corporate personalities from around the world visit the manufacturing plants, corporate giants, and so on that have their headquarters based in Brazil.

The main natural attractions in Brazil are:

• The Amazon Jungle.
• The Amazon River.
• The many other rainforests of this tropical and subtropical region.
• The extensive beaches and bays that line the coast.
• The many unique and fascinating plant and animal species in Brazil.
• Olinda (a historic centre) – declared a World Heritage Site in 1982
• Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: including San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, and the Ruins of Sao    Miguel das Missoes - declared a World Heritage Site in 1984
• Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas - declared a World Heritage Site in 1985
• Salvador de Bahia (a historic centre) - declared a World Heritage Site in 1985
• Iguacu National Park - declared a World Heritage Site in 1986

• Brasilia - declared a World Heritage Site in 1987

Because of the abundance and accessibility of many of its natural attractions, Brazil has also become acclaimed for its increasing focus on eco-tourism. This means that service providers and locals, in addition to those visiting the destination, are aware of and actively promoting tourism that does not harm the environment or its resources. In fact, support of and participation in some of the attractions and activities actually aid the local communities to preserve and protect the plants, animals and landscapes around them for the future enjoyment of other generations.

Most of the international visitors hail from Argentina, Italy and the United States of America. Interestingly, tourist visa requirements have been waived for many countries; including Greece, Italy, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Poland, South Africa, Turkey and many more.

Whether for their historical import, cultural contribution or natural resplendence, the following places have been deemed to be World Heritage Sites by the official body of UNESCO:

• Ouro Preto (a historic town) – declared as a World Heritage Site in 1980.
• Olinda (a historic centre) – declared a World Heritage Site in 1982
• Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: including San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, and the Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes - declared a World Heritage Site in 1984
• Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas - declared a World Heritage Site in 1985
• Salvador de Bahia (a historic centre) - declared a World Heritage Site in 1985
• Iguacu National Park - declared a World Heritage Site in 1986
• Brasilia - declared a World Heritage Site in 1987.

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Tourism in Albania

Albania is a land to be loved. In this small Mediterranean country, virgin nature and cultural mysteries combine to create a unique sense of place. From the snow-capped mountains in the winter to the fields covered in spring by red poppies, Albania’s landscape is ever-changing with the seasons, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy a warm summer beach holiday or a mountain trek in the crisp and cool air of the fall. In Albania, visitors are welcomed as guests as part of the country’s rich cultural traditions and heritage.

The warm hospitality of the Albanians, known worldwide, will make every traveler feel at home in this small wonderful land. There are many clean and pristine beaches, spectacular mountains, scenic river valleys, and many other natural surprises for visitors. Several of country’s main cities are situated along the pristine seashores of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. An important gateway to the Balkan Peninsula, Albania’s ever-growing road network provides juncture to reach its neighbors in north south, east, and west. Albania is within close proximity to all the major European capitals with short two or three hour flights that are available daily. Tourists can see and experience Albania’s ancient past and traditional culture.

The Albanian language is one of the oldest living languages in the world. Throughout the country there are newly discovered and exciting archaeological sites, preserved Illyrian and medieval castles, as well as Byzantine churches and monasteries which containa rich collection of frescoes and icons. Albanian cuisine offers a truly unique blend of Mediterranean flavors. “East meets West” in many discernable ways throughout Albanian culture, but this is nowhere more evident than in the cuisine. 

Representing a rich historical past, the food of modern Albania has been developed over millennium and reflects a variety of influences. Among the many typical dishes, visitors should not miss byrek, minced meat, vegetables, eggs and cheese in flaky pastry; tavëkosi, (traditional Albanian meal) - mutton baked in a dish with yogurt and eggs; tavëkorani,-a unique kind of trout found only in Lake Ohrid baked with nuts, sauce and onions; and pasha qofte, - a hot soup with meatballs, rice and eggs. Albania is well known for its “Scanderbeg” cognac, mentioned for its unique flavor and aroma. But the most popular and traditional of Albanian beverages is Raki. It is usually made from grapes, though there are also other kinds of raki made from plums, mulberries, and walnuts.

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Bali is Unique

There is no other place like Bali. The Island of the Gods offers great beaches, countless waves for surfing and wonderful natural sites to visit and explore,colorful ceremonies, and gifted artists. There is an unbelievably wide range of accommodation, restaurants, spas and world-class activities andshopping - all within close distance and at very fair prices. Choose from basic home-stays run by friendly Balinese families, 5star beach resorts or luxurious, privately-serviced Bali villas with your private pool. 
But, Bali is much more than that. There is a special vibe, an essence, something authentic that is difficult to describe, which has touched and inspired visitors from all over the world since decades. It has something to do with the Balinese themselves and their warm and welcoming caracters.

What to Expect from Bali

Whatever your expectations and desires, they all can be more than fulfilled. Bali is regularly rated one of the Top 10 tropical holiday destinations of the world.However, Bali is not straight forward. It is diverse, complex and sometimes unpredictable. 

The island is a vibrant, dynamic organism which is home to 4mio Indonesians and a few thousand expats living and making a living here. Bali is a "real place", with real people. Although one can find the most luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, best cuisines, and coconut trees on Bali, it is not like the Maldives or Bahamas, where everything is streamlined to the standards of global tourism and where Tourism Managers have invented concepts to provide "predictable surprises" for tourists. On Bali one can get lost in the variety of things to do.

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Iguazu Falls

Taller than Niagara Falls, twice as wide with 275 cascades spread in a horsehoe shape over nearly two miles of the Iguazu River, Iguazú Falls are the result of a volcanic eruption which left yet another large crack in the earth. During the rainy season of November - March, the rate of flow of water going over the falls may reach 450,000 cubic feet (12,750 cubic m) per second.

These matter of fact details do nothing to describe the grandeur of the falls, the tremendous amount of water (an average of 553 cubic feet per second) thundering down 269 feet, the tropical location and the sheer beauty that led Eleanor Roosevelt to say Poor Niagara. Four times the width of Niagara Falls, Iguazu Falls are divided by various islands into separate waterfalls. One of the best known is Devil's Throat, or Gargantua del Diablo with its perpetual spray high over the falls. Other notable falls are the San Martin, Bossetti, and Bernabe Mendez.

The falls are part of a singular practically virgin jungle ecosystem protected by Argentine and Brazilian national parks on either side of the cascades. Two thirds of the falls are on the Argentinian side of the river where you can also tour Iguazú National Park where there are jungle trails and bird hikes. Plan a full day in the park to fully enjoy the wildlife flora and fauna.

It is possible to see the falls and surrounding area in a lightning trip but it is better to plan at least two days. The view from the Brazilian side is the most panoramic and there are helicopter rides out over the falls from Foz do Iguaçu. You may also take boat rides out to the falls. The light is best in the morning for photographs.

Best seen from the Brazilian side is the spectacular Devil's Throat, garganta del diablo, where fourteen falls drop 350 feet with such force that there is always a 100 foot cloud of spray overhead. Watch for the rainbow! For a close up view, walk through the subtropical forest of National Iguaçu Park to the base of Salto Floriano and take the elevator to the top of the falls. or walk out over the falls at Salto Union. From the Argentine side you can take a series of catwalks over the water rushing into Devil's Gorge. Protective rain suits are provided. There are some areas where it is possible to swim in the spray of the cascades. Ask locally for instructions but be aware that you might have a resulting problem with cuticle parasites.

The best times to see Iguazu Falls are in the spring and fall. Summer is intensely tropically hot and humid, and in winter the water level is considerably lower. There are hotels on both sides of the river and many tour agencies provide sightseeing opportunities around the area. Browse through this list of hotels on the Brazilian side of the falls, or these on the Argentine side.

Downstream from the falls where the Parana and Iguazu rivers meet, so do the borders of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay. Each country has created a landmark in their national colors on a spot in each of their countries where you can see all three.

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Bora Bora, The Romantic Island

Bora Bora, The Romantic Island

Under a one hour flight from the island of Tahiti or Moorea, the island of Bora Bora, with a lagoon resembling an artist's palette of blues and greens, is love at first sight.Romantics from around the world have laid claim to this island where the castle-like Mount Otemanu pierces the sky. Lush tropical slopes and valleys blossom with hibiscus, while palm-covered motu circle the illuminated lagoon like a delicate necklace. Perfect white-sand beaches give way to emerald waters where colored fish animate the coral gardens as they greet the giant manta rays. This could be easily be described as the center of the romantic universe, where luxury resorts and spas dot the island with overwater bungalows, thatchedroof villas, and fabled ambience.

Simply said, Bora Bora is the most beautiful island in the world.

Pora Pora - the ancient name, meaning "first born," came from legends describing this as the first island to rise when Taaroa, the supreme god, fished it out of the waters after the mythical creation of Havai'i, now known as Raiatea. Although the first letter "B" does not exist in the Tahitian language, when Captain Cook first heard the name he mistook the softened sound of the Tahitian "P" for "B" and called the island Bola Bola.

Romance on Bora Bora

Truly, the most romantic island in the world. From the dramatic scenery to the privacy and amenities of the overwater bungalows, everything in Bora Bora equals a 10 on the romance scale. Resorts have been welcoming couples for over 40 years and their special amenities have been fine tuned to perfection. From sunrise to sunset, each resort has designed their own blend of unique romantic experiences for their guests to choose from.

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