Tagged: Paris Accommodation
Festival d’automne à Paris
Tumbling autumn leaves spread a golden carpet underfoot as you wander along the banks of the Seine in the sunshine. Warmth billows from the door of an enticingly chic French café, with the rich aroma of coffee wafting onto the pavement. A window display of strikingly contemporary Parisian fashions, makes you pause to admire. Yes, this is Paris in the autumn, every inch or centimetre proving as atmospheric, engaging and continental, as only Paris can be.
But at this time of year you might find another reason to book a romantic Parisian hideaway, a stylish Loving Apartment. A bohemian rhapsody of theatre, dance, visual arts and film, ‘The Festival d’automne’ is Paris re-awakening after the slumbers of the August Holidays. The 41st Festival is currently in full flow, running until 31 December at performance venues across the city. Whatever arrondissement your holiday rental apartment is in, you’re more than likely to find a Festival performance almost on your doorstep.
The performances are nearly always experimental, contemporary, international and highly original combining complementary art forms. This is after all Paris, the city of stylish invention and cutting edge fashion, a city where the young and hip are neighbours to the traditional and distinctly ‘haute couture’.
So this autumn, Paris will once again throb to the beat of over 40 events, drawing over a 100,000 people to this major European cultural event. A complete programme can be found, and tickets booked online at www.festival-automne.com.
So find your romantic Parisian loft or elegant Left Bank nook at Loving Apartments, book your Eurostar seats and you’ll be able to immerse yourself in an unsurpassed cultural feast. And they say that the shopping’s not bad either in Paris . . .
Cosy 3 Bedroom Apartment Located in Montmatre from €24 pppn
Bright and Contemporary 1 Bedroom Apartment, from €39 pppn
10 Free Things To Do In Paris
Forget Paris’ reputation for being one of the most expensive places in Europe to visit; we at Loving Apartments offer great value rental apartments and suggest things you can do for free in the city of love:
- Spending time at the Gothic masterpiece of Notre-Dame Cathedral really is a must. You can bask in the beauty of its architecture; increase your knowledge with a summer tour; and, enjoy one of the spectacular sound and vision night shows – all for free.
- Wend your way along the many beautiful trails and paths in the Parc des Buttes Chaumont. There are so many outstanding features and gardens here that you might forget you are in urban Paris. If you have a head for heights, take the 22 metre high suspension bridge to the belvedere of Sybil – a temple folly that sits atop a craggy peak overlooking the park.
- Visit Galeries Lafayette, which since opening nearly 120 years ago has become an institution for fashionable Parisians. The urge to spend will be strong in this amazing art nouveau building but if you reserve a place at one of the free fashion shows held there each Friday afternoon, you may just be distracted long enough to forget about spending money.
- Walk barefoot on the sands of Paris-Plages. Every summer artificial beaches spring up along the river Seine. Topless sunbathing is a no-no, as is taking a dip in the river but feeling the sand between your toes and the cool breeze from the Seine makes this a perfect chill-out spot.
- Take a walk through the quietest neighbourhood in Paris – Père Lachaise Cemetery. Well, the incumbents are quiet but each year literally hundreds of thousands of visitors ensure that this cemetery is a place for the living. See the final resting places of: novelist, Oscar Wilde; singer, Édith Piaf; American lead singer of The Doors, Jim Morrison and many other famous residents.
- On the first Sunday of every month you can wallow in the sophistication of the Louvre for free. It’s a great opportunity to visit one of the most famous art galleries in the world and get up close to the most enigmatic smile in history – Mona Lisa’s.
- You don’t need to don a white lab coat on a visit to The Curie Museum but the tour will bring you much closer to understanding the achievements of famous husband and wife scientists Pierre and Marie Curie.
- Comfy shoes at the ready for a fantastic three-and-a-half hour walking tour of Paris. These tours may be free but your guide’s knowledge is priceless. As well as seeing some of the most famous sights of the city, you will discover parts you didn’t know existed. Tours are held daily at 11:00 and 13:00, meeting beside the fountain at Place Saint Michel.
- Take in the artistic wonders of the Centre Pompidou for free on the first Sunday of every month or any day if you are under 26 and from the EU. Like the Lloyd’s building in London, the Centre Pompidou looks like it has been turned inside out: unlike Lloyd’s, it houses a huge collection of 20th century art.
- Walk the Place des Vosges and you’ll be following in the footsteps of some of Paris’ most famous and influential citizens. This perfectly proportioned square is the oldest in the city and amongst its famous residents was Victor Hugo, the writer of ‘Les Misérables’. As a bonus, when you’ve taken in the symmetrical beauty of the square you can also visit the permanent exhibits in Hugo’s house for free.
Why not book a Paris holiday apartment now and start sightseeing for free?
Disneyland Paris – a Magical Trip for all the Family
It’s not surprising that every child dreams of visiting Disneyland Paris. When you step through those pearly gates, every Disney film or cartoon you’ve ever seen comes to life in front of your very eyes. This American-derived theme park is much more than just rides and games – it provides a complete fairy-tale experience that visitors of all ages will adore.
Probably the most recognisable feature of the park is the Sleeping Beauty Castle that stands proudly in the centre of Fantasyland – one of the park’s 5 enchanting lands waiting to be explored. Each land has a unique theme from the American Wild West and buccaneering adventure, to bewitching fairy-tales and outer space. Within these lands are some timeless rides including ‘Peter Pan’s Flight’ and ‘it’s a small world’ that were first created in the early years of Disneyland America. There are also some new and improved rides including an even faster ‘Space Mountain: Mission 2’ for those in search of a thrill.
Get up close and personal with your favourite Disney characters that can often be seen in wandering around the various lands – and for any adults planning a trip – it’s perfectly acceptable to request a photo! Make sure you check out the times for the daily Disney Parade – an absolute must for your Disney schedule, with beloved Disney characters parading on past, to well-known Disney tunes.
If as a child, you didn’t get the chance to visit Disneyland Paris, it’s certainly not too late to be a part of the magic. A trip to Disneyland is sure to bring out your inner-child, and once you’re done running between the themed lands, head over to Disney Village, which has an array of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and live music performances.
Whether you’re visiting Disneyland Paris for a dedicated holiday or simply a day trip from the French capital, the Park is easily accessible by public transport from the city centre. Take the RER A commuter train from the Nation stations or the Chatelet-les-Halles, which will deliver you conveniently to the entrance of Disneyland Paris.
Hotel accommodation around Disneyland Paris can be pricey and many visitors choose to stay in Paris apartments for the great facilities provided and the opportunity to explore the wonderful city. Visit lovingapartments.com to view our portfolio of Paris apartments and stay up-to-date with events and Hot Deals on Facebook.
Have a magical trip to Disneyland Paris and remember to wish upon a star!
Sainte-Chapelle: Holy Chapel of King Louis IX
Sainte-Chapelle is one of the great pieces of architecture in Paris. The magnificent stained glass windows are among the best of their kind and truly show off the talent of the 13th century workers that constructed the building. The architect of the awe-inspiring building is actually unknown, as it was never recorded upon completion in 1248, but Sainte-Chapelle remains one of the highest realisations of the Rayonnant period of Gothic architecture. A trip to Sainte-Chapelle is highly recommended whilst staying in an apartment in Paris.
King Louis IX of France commissioned the building of Sainte-Chapelle in order to house his newly acquired Passion relics, the Crown of Thorns and a piece of the True Cross. The authenticity of these items was never confirmed, but Louis held them in high regard, purchasing and displaying them in an attempt to make France the next leader of Western Christianity. Whether or not he succeeded, it is apparent that he personally made a lasting impression. King Louis IX is the only king of France to have been canonised after his death, becoming a recognized saint in the Catholic Church.
Restorations were completed on Sainte-Chapelle during the 19th century after damage was done during the French Revolution. Today, almost two thirds of the stained glass remains original, although much of the building is a re-creation. Still, the interior of Sainte-Chapelle is a magnificent sight and is well worth a visit.
Sainte-Chapelle is open each day, with differing hours depending on the season. March through October the chapel is open from 9:30am to 6pm. From November through February, hours are from 9am to 5pm. Throughout the year, Sainte-Chapelle is closed midday from 1-2pm.
Sainte-Chapelle is closest to Cite station on Metro Line 2. You can also take bus 21, 27, 38, 85, or 96. Adults can expect to pay €8 for admission. Minors under the age of 18 and EU citizens under the age of 26 are able to enter for free. Keep in mind that the ticket line will close a half hour before closing each day.
Accommodation in Paris is available near Sainte-Chapelle. Visit lovingapartments.com to view our portfolio of Paris apartments or “like” us on Facebook to stay up to date on hot deals.
Explore the Cultures of the World… in Paris!
Loving Apartments is loving Paris. As the largest city in France, Paris always has something new and exciting to see. The Quai Branly Museum is one of Paris’s newer attractions, just having celebrated its fifth year on June 23, 2011. The museum is named after its location at 37 Quai Branly, which is right on the Seine River—100 metres from the Eiffel Tower. The Quai Branly Museum is a spectacular Paris attraction, exhibiting art and historical items from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.
Unless you are a student, are under the age of 18, or are a Quai Branly Museum special pass holder, you will have to pay an admission fee to get into the permanent exhibits. The ticket also includes special theme exhibitions, the anthropological exhibition, and the multimedia gallery. Find specific prices for admission on the museum website. Separate tickets must be purchased for the international exhibit, music and theatre events, and special cultural events that take place at the Quai Branly Museum.
Museum operating hours are as follows: Monday (closed); Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday (11am-7pm); and Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (11am-9pm). The ticket counter closes an hour before the museum, so be sure to arrive with plenty of time to explore. Also, check ahead of time for debates, lectures, and cinema events, as they are open to the museum’s regular admission ticket holders.
The upcoming exhibit at the Quai Branly Museum is PHOTOQUAI, open from September 13th to November 11th, 2011. This collection of world images appears every other year. Be sure not to miss this year’s event! PHOTOQUAI showcases photographers that aren’t well known in Europe. Rather, 46 artists from 29 countries exhibit nearly 400 photographs in hopes to inspire communication on differing views of our world.
Visit the Quai Branly Museum in Paris this year and explore the world’s cultures. Book a Paris apartment near the centre of Paris and take advantage of all that this magnificent city has to offer. The Quai Branly Museum is a great way to spend a day in Paris—just make sure to leave time for the other amazing features the city has to offer!
Père Lachaise Cemetery is a Paris Must-See
Cemeteries are creepy, right? Wrong. Père Lachaise Cemetery, located on the Boulevard de Menilmontant in Paris, is a beautiful place to site-see or take a leisurely stroll. Thousands of trees accompany hills and gardens making Père Lachaise Cemetery seem less like burial grounds and more like a pretty place for a walk.
Upon establishment by Napoleon, Père Lachaise Cemetery was regarded as too far away from the city to be a desirable final resting place. Just a few dozen people were buried in the cemetery at that point. Remains of La Fontaine, Moliere, Pierre Abelard and Heloise were moved to the cemetery in order to encourage others to use the space for their loved ones. Indeed, the plan worked and in just a few short years the number of people buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery shot up to over 30,000. Everyone wanted to be buried amongst the rich and famous.
Currently, over 300,000 people are buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery. Famous gravesites include those of Chopin, Jim Morrison, and Oscar Wilde. Other attractions include memorials to those who fought in the World Wars.
A book was written about the cemetery entitled Meet Me At Père Lachaise. The book’s website, perelachaisecemetery.com, has information, pictures, and even an iPhone App that can be downloaded for book and audio tours to use whilst in the cemetery. Because it is so large, it is smart to locate what you are hoping to see in Père Lachaise Cemetery on a map before you make your way through. This way you can personalize your visit and be sure to see the sites that are most important to you.
To get to Père Lachaise Cemetery, take the Metro from your Paris apartment to Philippe Auguste station on Line 2 for the main entrance. For the side entrance, take Line 3 to Père Lachaise station. Another option, favoured by many tourists, is to get off at Gambetta station on Line 3, which lets visitors enter near Oscar Wilde’s tomb and walk down hill as they view the rest of the cemetery.
Free maps are available at the cemetery, but guided tours are recommended if you’re looking to get complete information on Père Lachaise Cemetery. Call +33(0)140 717 560 in advance for more information.
The best way to enjoy Paris is to hit all the major sites during the day and enjoy a self-catered apartment by night. Loving Apartments offers Paris apartment rentals from budget to luxury to meet your needs. Apartments are located near popular sites in Paris for your convenience.
Visit lovingapartments.com for Paris apartment listings. Hot deals can be found on Facebook as well as lovingapartments.com. Subscribe to our blog to stay updated on relevant tips, advice, and city features. We hope you are able to enjoy a visit to Père Lachaise Cemetery. Au revoir!
Parisian Seafood at its Finest
Paris is a hot spot for a relaxing holiday. We love the Parisian food, especially at Goumard, one of Paris’s top seafood restaurants since 1872. The secret to Goumard’s success is the use of the finest quality fresh ingredients. Supplies of fresh fish are shipped to the shop daily. Seafood has been such a highlight in Goumard that only the seafood dishes are printed on the menu. If you’re looking for meat, you’ll have to enquire as to what is available.
If you’re planning on making a trip to Goumard, make sure you get a table by booking online at goumard.com as soon as possible. It’s never too early to make sure you get one of the coveted seats. Goumard currently seats 100 people in two rooms and has two lounge areas and a bar. However, demand is high as it is a popular venue amongst both locals and visitors. You can’t be too careful.
Current menus and pricing can also be found at goumard.com. The menu tends to change with the seasons because fresh in-season ingredients are used. Expect the pricing to match the upscale atmosphere and menu. But although it can be expensive, seafood lovers will appreciate the quality of flavours and fine service that Goumard provides.
We offer apartments in Paris that are located near Goumard and other top attractions, allowing you to get about easily and conveniently. Renting a Paris apartment is a great way to enjoy the city. Visit lovingapartments.com to view our wide selection of apartments in Paris or “like” our Facebook page to stay up to date on competitions and hot deals.
Get to Goumard on your next trip to Paris to devour the finest seafood around. As they say in France, bon appétit.
Why Paris is the Place to Be This Summer
Dreaming of a tropical destination for a summer holiday? Paris has just what you’re looking for. The city of Paris sets up artificial beaches for one month each year along the Seine River called Paris Beach, or Paris-Plages, as the French would say. Paris-Plages is a hot spot for relaxing in the sun and enjoying water sports. Entrance is completely free and offers an atmosphere that appeals to both adults and children.
The 2011 event is from July 21-August 21. This year marks Paris-Plages’ 10th anniversary. In celebration, the open-air venue will offer free evening concerts, tai chi, ballroom dancing, and cultural activities throughout the month. There is much to celebrate as Paris-Plages has developed extraordinarily since the founding of the event in 2002. Each season brings with it new attractions and services such as the inclusion of ferry transport between locations and pools suspended over the Seine River.
The original idea was to cater to the Parisians who weren’t able to go on holiday over the hot summer months, but Paris-Plages has become an affair that cannot be missed. Paris-Plages began singular as Paris-Plage with just one beach located on the Rive Droite near Pont de Sully. This traditional beach offers sunbathing and small pools for swimming. Today, visitors can enjoy two additional locations at the Rive Gauche and La Villette. La Villette provides a more active theme with activities such as boating and water sports. You will also often see people exercising and running up and down the beach.
If you’re dreaming of a relaxing break, Paris is the perfect getaway this summer. Paris-Plages will be greater than ever before, offering you a cultural experience and a relaxing haven whilst you are staying at a Paris apartment.
Loving Apartments is offering hot deals in July and August. Follow us on Facebook to keep up with hot deals in Paris this summer. You can also check for apartments closest to the Paris-Plages location by clicking here. Don’t miss out on a tropical summer in Paris—the place to be.
