Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tourism. Show all posts

Monday, 8 December 2014

French Connection: A tourist in Paris

This was the day in Paris that we decided we were going to be ultimate tourists and see the big 4: The Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, The Arc de Triomphe and The Love Lock Bridge. This would be my chance to collect the iconic pieces of Paris, so that I could put together everything this city means to me. I can't say I was prepared for the ways that this day in Paris would change me, but I can somehow put it into words.

I was wide awake at about 5am, and I could actually feel my heart beating faster than usual. At this point I had only had a taste of Paris, and now was the day to drink it all in. Our small group of travelling compainions decided to leave bright and early to see as much as the hours would allow. We started off our Parisian adventure the best way we knew how- we took a taxi to the Champs-Elysees (pronounces shanzer leezay, isn't French so romantic!). 

The Champs-Elysees is one of the most famous streets in the world, situated along nearly 2 kilometers of central Paris. This was where we browsed the colour-coordinated shops (even the McDonald's sign was the signature white and grey) and took in the prominence of the luxurious restaurants. The smells of the different French patisseries with their inviting glass displays were making all our stomachs ache with hunger, so we stopped at one of the more low-key cafe's, and ordered a cappuccino and a pastry of our choice (a chocolate croissant for me).

Sitting down at a small table with a view of the opulence outside, I finally let it all sink in- I am in Paris, eating a French croissant and sipping on coffee on the Champs-Elysees. It was unbelievable, for loss of a better word.

The Official sign on the Champs-Elysees Street


Tuesday, 25 November 2014

Tips for going on Contiki

Going on a Contiki trip is possibly the best decision you could ever make as a young student/adult. It is one of the most affordable ways to travel, and it is extremely well-organised with experienced tour-guides, well-coordinated activities and great value for money in terms of accommodation and food.

I would personally recommend this to anyone wanting to see the world on a budget, and between myself and the friends of mine that have also gone, I have only ever heard positive feedback and tons of epic stories! Since I learnt some things the hard way, and did other things right first time round, I would like to give out some helpful advice to anyone who is thinking of going. There is not much that can go wrong, but make the most of your opportunity by being prepared and having an unforgettable experience!