France: On The Road
By TDF. Filed in Travel & Living |
Paris, the city of love and a thousand other clichés, still holds a
certain mystic. But no matter how many written words this great city
has commanded - however familiar this town may appear - Paris will
always remain an enigma, a magnet for millions of visitors from around
the world.
Paris carries an enchantment that you cannot always put your
finger on. We perceive Parisians as chic and stylish, forever setting
the trend.
But there is more to this country than just its capital. France
is home to over 60 million people, including many of North African
descent.
One of the things that keeps France great is its attention to
detail: the back street shop that sells 30 varieties of croissant, the
creaseless department store bags to carry home your latest in
fashionable attire, the delightful little chocolates that accompany
your coffee on one of the street corner cafes.
The French language itself conjures up magic and mystery, adding to the romance of being in an alien land.
The modern France bears aspects of foreign influence. Alongside
the chic boutiques and stylish cafes sit far-western heavyweights such
as McDonalds. But France will forever remain French. Chic and panache
will always prevail.
Provided you can steer clear of the boy racers who treat the
roads as racing tracks, France will satisfy even the most ardent
explorers.
When visiting France, the first place on most people’s
itineraries is Paris, and the fabulous Louvre. Whilst Napoleon
endeavoured to conquer Europe, his armies busied themselves collecting
the spoils from their defeated hosts.
When the Louvre was built in 1793, these trophies were exhibited in the new museum for the whole of France to witness.
Today the Louvre has been given a modern day makeover. A
magnificent glass pyramid embraces the museum making it instantly
recognisable around the world.
If you can endure the crowds, some of the world’s most
celebrated art can be witnessed. These include ‘Winged Victory’ and the
‘Mona Lisa’ with her legendary smile.
For those wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of
France’s busy cities, the town of Chamonix offers the perfect contrast
to city life. Located in one of the spectacular valleys of the French
Alps, Chamonix offers picture postcard views, dominated by centuries
old glaciers and the imposing summit of Mount Blanc.
Just one of the many reasons for France being the world’s number one tourist destination.
