When you gear up to tour the stunning sights of France, there are a few locations you don’t want to leave out on your agenda. Knowing the hidden facts about France widens your options for a full French adventure. There are tiny villages, beautifully constructed chateaus, and a flourishing of floral gardens to keep you buys for ages. However, there are some must-see places that you will want to witness first hand. A trip to France wouldn’t be complete without them!
One of the loveliest facts about Normandy is its close situation to Paris. If you would rather hole up in the grand city of Paris at night, Normandy could be a fun excursion for you to participate in. Normandy is overflowing with history and countless memorials. People flock to its shores to see the D-Day beaches firsthand. Although Normandy does hold these reflective hotspots, it also is a city full of outdoor markets, beautiful shops, and a welcoming people. Don’t forget the Caen Memorial which holds fantastic insight into the reasons behind the bloodshed of D-Day and the war. It’s a honorable tribute to all those who died on this old battlefield. If perhaps you’d like to take more time exploring the beauties of Normandy, there are several pleasant and hospitable accommodations in this thought provoking city.
Stopping in at Brittany, France is a must if you are a fan of the Celtic heritage! This region holds all the Celtic facts about France that you could ever desire. The architecture in Brittany alone is a sight to behold. Early dwellings, castles perched high upon cliffs, old-fashioned lighthouses, and festivals celebrating the Celtic history all work together magnificently giving you the greatest sightseeing tour of your life. To get a richer taste of the Celtic heritage, visit Brittany in August when the Inter-Celtic festival takes place. Dancing, joyful Celtic tunes, poetry and Celtic goods galore are all waiting for you at the festival!
The resounding peace of nature isn’t one of the well known facts about France. Nature is overflowing and abundant in the area of Champagne-Ardennes. White sheep grazing in serene pastures, thick emerald green forests, and little villages poking up through the hill-sides put you right at ease. If you are a lover of Champagne, you won’t be sorry for a trip to this area. One of the whimsical vineyards that line the valley provides a pleasant place to stop and enjoy a glass and a bite of scrumptious cheese. Wherever your foreign holiday takes you, enjoying yourself is simply one of the facts about France.
For more facts about France - http://www.ruba.com/guide/erin/facts_about_france
France
The Facts about Touring France
When you gear up to tour the stunning sights of France, there are a few locations you don’t want to leave out on your agenda. Knowing the hidden facts about France widens your options for a full French adventure. There are tiny villages, beautifully constructed chateaus, and a flourishing of floral gardens to keep you buys for ages. However, there are some must-see places that you will want to witness first hand. A trip to France wouldn’t be complete without them!
One of the loveliest facts about Normandy is its close situation to Paris. If you would rather hole up in the grand city of Paris at night, Normandy could be a fun excursion for you to participate in. Normandy is overflowing with history and countless memorials. People flock to its shores to see the D-Day beaches firsthand. Although Normandy does hold these reflective hotspots, it also is a city full of outdoor markets, beautiful shops, and a welcoming people. Don’t forget the Caen Memorial which holds fantastic insight into the reasons behind the bloodshed of D-Day and the war. It’s a honorable tribute to all those who died on this old battlefield. If perhaps you’d like to take more time exploring the beauties of Normandy, there are several pleasant and hospitable accommodations in this thought provoking city.
Stopping in at Brittany, France is a must if you are a fan of the Celtic heritage! This region holds all the Celtic facts about France that you could ever desire. The architecture in Brittany alone is a sight to behold. Early dwellings, castles perched high upon cliffs, old-fashioned lighthouses, and festivals celebrating the Celtic history all work together magnificently giving you the greatest sightseeing tour of your life. To get a richer taste of the Celtic heritage, visit Brittany in August when the Inter-Celtic festival takes place. Dancing, joyful Celtic tunes, poetry and Celtic goods galore are all waiting for you at the festival!
The resounding peace of nature isn’t one of the well known facts about France. Nature is overflowing and abundant in the area of Champagne-Ardennes. White sheep grazing in serene pastures, thick emerald green forests, and little villages poking up through the hill-sides put you right at ease. If you are a lover of Champagne, you won’t be sorry for a trip to this area. One of the whimsical vineyards that line the valley provides a pleasant place to stop and enjoy a glass and a bite of scrumptious cheese. Wherever your foreign holiday takes you, enjoying yourself is simply one of the facts about France.
For more facts about France -
http://www.ruba.com/guide/erin/facts_about_france
Owned by the famous young celebrity chef Cyril Lignac, this trendy eatery is the place to see and be seen. Social butterflies and foodies alike flock to Le Quinzieme and it is impossible to get a table without reservations. A pleasant staff, efficient service and mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine - what more could you possibly want?
Paris, France
Le Quinzieme
Owned by the famous young celebrity chef Cyril Lignac, this trendy eatery is the place to see and be seen. Social butterflies and foodies alike flock to Le Quinzieme and it is impossible to get a table without reservations. A pleasant staff, efficient service and mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine - what more could you possibly want?
A must for every tourist in Toulouse, the Saint-Sernin Basilica was consecrated by Pope Urbain II in 1096 and saved from destruction by the famous Urbain Vitry. It was restored under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture. As you pass the basilica you will see a door outlined by a creeper of young ivy. Behind this door lies a restaurant offering a sexton's menu (tomato tart, duck breast with anchovy sauce, various Catalan custards) and a vicar's menu (prawn salad with orange, red mullet with foie gras and asparagus, puff pastry tarts with oranges and grillotines).
Toulouse, France
Le 7 place Saint-Sernin
A must for every tourist in Toulouse, the Saint-Sernin Basilica was consecrated by Pope Urbain II in 1096 and saved from destruction by the famous Urbain Vitry. It was restored under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture. As you pass the basilica you will see a door outlined by a creeper of young ivy. Behind this door lies a restaurant offering a sexton's menu (tomato tart, duck breast with anchovy sauce, various Catalan custards) and a vicar's menu (prawn salad with orange, red mullet with foie gras and asparagus, puff pastry tarts with oranges and grillotines).
The first time I went to Paris (04) I found a great place to get a hot dog. Now, I know what you are thinking typical American looking for American food, but that's simply not the case. I had made some friends on the metro from Rio and we had been walking around all day taking in the sites and sounds of Paris. We went to the Louve, to see the sculptor Rodin, we went to the famous Moulin Rouge, but it was at our final stop the Effiel Tower that we really took in the sights, for a man was jumping from beam to beam evading the police in an attempt to jump from the tower! We watched this man in horror for nearly 2 hours with the crowds below gasping and cheering from time to time. It was then that we all grew hungry. Not waiting to miss any part of the action we crossed the street to the carousel pictured above where we found the most delicious hot dog ever! You see they take a french baguette, punch a hole through the middle of it and then pour, ketchup, mustard and any other condiment that have on hand, before stuffing the actual hot dog in. THIS allows for all the good stuff to smother the whole thing making it absolutely delicious and the french baguette is just icing on the cake. ... Oh and as for the man? Well the police finally caught him! The day ended well for all.
75007 Paris, France
Tour Eiffel
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The first time I went to Paris (04) I found a great place to get a hot dog. Now, I know what you are thinking typical American looking for American food, but that's simply not the case. I had made some friends on the metro from Rio and we had been walking around all day taking in the sites and sounds of Paris. We went to the Louve, to see the sculptor Rodin, we went to the famous Moulin Rouge, but it was at our final stop the Effiel Tower that we really took in the sights, for a man was jumping from beam to beam evading the police in an attempt to jump from the tower! We watched this man in horror for nearly 2 hours with the crowds below gasping and cheering from time to time. It was then that we all grew hungry. Not waiting to miss any part of the action we crossed the street to the carousel pictured above where we found the most delicious hot dog ever! You see they take a french baguette, punch a hole through the middle of it and then pour, ketchup, mustard and any other condiment that have on hand, before stuffing the actual hot dog in. THIS allows for all the good stuff to smother the whole thing making it absolutely delicious and the french baguette is just icing on the cake. ... Oh and as for the man? Well the police finally caught him! The day ended well for all.
It's easy to see why this café-brasserie, situated in the heart of bustling Cours Saleya, has long been a favorite with both locals and tourists. Brasserie L'F attracts a young, chic clientèle, coming to see and be seen from the huge terraces lining the street. It's the perfect place to watch the world go by. In winter, heaters ensure that the terraces outside stay busy (and warm). Be sure to try the fabulous bruschetta with an espresso (EUR2) or a beer (EUR3).
Nice, France
Brasserie L'F
It's easy to see why this café-brasserie, situated in the heart of bustling Cours Saleya, has long been a favorite with both locals and tourists. Brasserie L'F attracts a young, chic clientèle, coming to see and be seen from the huge terraces lining the street. It's the perfect place to watch the world go by. In winter, heaters ensure that the terraces outside stay busy (and warm). Be sure to try the fabulous bruschetta with an espresso (EUR2) or a beer (EUR3).
If dancing is your second nature, spend a memorable evening with your beloved at Le Dansoir. This is a place to eat, drink and dance your time or see others dance. Located at the foot of the famous Bibliothèque Nationale de France, the ideal location adds to the beauty of the place. Frequented by the elite of this grand European city, a visit here is an experience in itself.
Paris, France
Le Dansoir
If dancing is your second nature, spend a memorable evening with your beloved at Le Dansoir. This is a place to eat, drink and dance your time or see others dance. Located at the foot of the famous Bibliothèque Nationale de France, the ideal location adds to the beauty of the place. Frequented by the elite of this grand European city, a visit here is an experience in itself.
Though this is technically not a fusion restaurant, you can definitely see the French influences in the food of this Indian-Pakistani restaurant in the touristy 7th arrondissement. All of the dishes have Indian names, but the toned down spices and the creamy sauces scream "French." Parisians are not accustomed to the level of spiciness that their near neighbors, the Brits are, and even the relevé or spicy options on the menu are not that hot. Try the chicken tikka masala: the French influence on this dish brings a normally creamy sauce to utter decadence. This is a high-class spot...not at all like little curry houses. White linens and black-tie service makes New Jawad a great place for a special night out, but it remains affordable. -Emily Monaco
Paris, France
New Jawad
Though this is technically not a fusion restaurant, you can definitely see the French influences in the food of this Indian-Pakistani restaurant in the touristy 7th arrondissement. All of the dishes have Indian names, but the toned down spices and the creamy sauces scream "French." Parisians are not accustomed to the level of spiciness that their near neighbors, the Brits are, and even the relevé or spicy options on the menu are not that hot. Try the chicken tikka masala: the French influence on this dish brings a normally creamy sauce to utter decadence. This is a high-class spot...not at all like little curry houses. White linens and black-tie service makes New Jawad a great place for a special night out, but it remains affordable. -Emily Monaco
Le Vent Debout is named after the boat that ferried people from Nice to Beaulieu in the 19th Century. A terrace restaurant at the La Reserve de Beaulieu, it is close to the pool and overlooks the private harbor that has many yachts. From 3p onwards the guests can order from the mini menu. This is the place to be if you wish to see celebrities.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France
Le Vent Debout
Le Vent Debout is named after the boat that ferried people from Nice to Beaulieu in the 19th Century. A terrace restaurant at the La Reserve de Beaulieu, it is close to the pool and overlooks the private harbor that has many yachts. From 3p onwards the guests can order from the mini menu. This is the place to be if you wish to see celebrities.
The late Fonfon would have been proud to see that his restaurant's excellent reputation lives on. Still a family-run affair, one of the city's best places for seafood serves a mean bouillabaisse (cooked to perfection using ingredients fished from the sea close by), whilst other dishes including Poisson à l'argile, and Poisson grillé should easily satisfy the most demanding of palates. Huge bay windows ensure a fabulous sea view while you dine. Unique.
Marseille, France
Chez Fonfon
The late Fonfon would have been proud to see that his restaurant's excellent reputation lives on. Still a family-run affair, one of the city's best places for seafood serves a mean bouillabaisse (cooked to perfection using ingredients fished from the sea close by), whilst other dishes including Poisson à l'argile, and Poisson grillé should easily satisfy the most demanding of palates. Huge bay windows ensure a fabulous sea view while you dine. Unique.
Walk in when it's day; you find La Table de Loulou a quaint little restaurant. Brass pots and pans adorn the white walls, with unassuming framed pictures adding a bit of personality and color. Settle down with a good French wine for a great Provençal meal, and you suspect nothing. Come at night around weekends and see the place transform itself into a cabaret spectacle that's packed with drag queens, velor and song and dance comparable with the Moulin-Rouge, Madame Loulou comes very close to convincing you! Check website for exact timings.
Marseille, France
La Table de Loulou
Walk in when it's day; you find La Table de Loulou a quaint little restaurant. Brass pots and pans adorn the white walls, with unassuming framed pictures adding a bit of personality and color. Settle down with a good French wine for a great Provençal meal, and you suspect nothing. Come at night around weekends and see the place transform itself into a cabaret spectacle that's packed with drag queens, velor and song and dance comparable with the Moulin-Rouge, Madame Loulou comes very close to convincing you! Check website for exact timings.
This convivial pub, which is located in a former women's prison. It is the only place in Bordeaux that brews its own beer. You can see how hops and malt straight from England are processed, and taste the different beers made on the premises. The Frog also serves a full and varied selection of food, including American breakfasts, brunch, typically English fare with cheddar cheese and grilled chicken dishes. The many different desserts include brownies and crumble, and all are served with custard.
Bordeaux, France
Frog & Rosbif
This convivial pub, which is located in a former women's prison. It is the only place in Bordeaux that brews its own beer. You can see how hops and malt straight from England are processed, and taste the different beers made on the premises. The Frog also serves a full and varied selection of food, including American breakfasts, brunch, typically English fare with cheddar cheese and grilled chicken dishes. The many different desserts include brownies and crumble, and all are served with custard.
From the sunny days of spring, a chic clientele rushes to this immense semicircular terrace in the heart of downtown Bordeaux; it's the perfect place to see and be seen. Inside, there is a large room decorated like a Parisian café, with a huge wooden counter. Lunch and light set meals are always available and the service is fast and extremely polite.
Bordeaux, France
Le Régent
From the sunny days of spring, a chic clientele rushes to this immense semicircular terrace in the heart of downtown Bordeaux; it's the perfect place to see and be seen. Inside, there is a large room decorated like a Parisian café, with a huge wooden counter. Lunch and light set meals are always available and the service is fast and extremely polite.
Another brasserie opened by the famous chef Paul Bocuse, L'Est is situated in the former Brotteaux station. The menu, famous for its seafood specialties, includes flavors from all around the world, and the kitchen is rightly placed in the center of the room, so that everyone can see what is going on. You can watch the preparation of Polonaise Borsch, Indian poultry whites, or fresh cod roasted the Tunisian way. Everything is refined, and in the summer you can enjoy dining on the lovely terrace. Check website for more details.
Lyon, France
L' Est
Another brasserie opened by the famous chef Paul Bocuse, L'Est is situated in the former Brotteaux station. The menu, famous for its seafood specialties, includes flavors from all around the world, and the kitchen is rightly placed in the center of the room, so that everyone can see what is going on. You can watch the preparation of Polonaise Borsch, Indian poultry whites, or fresh cod roasted the Tunisian way. Everything is refined, and in the summer you can enjoy dining on the lovely terrace. Check website for more details.
On weeknight evenings you're likely to see a gaggle of beautiful people huddled around a smallish looking pavilion next to the Pont Lafayette. It's probably the spillover from Baroc: this bar (and restaurant during the summer) features DJ nights and theme soirées, as well as Open Baroc on Thursdays. Despite the mix-and-match décor; it seems like Baroc can't decide between opulent decadence and gauzy Eastern sumptuousness and so has thrown it all together in a pastiche that surprisingly works. All in all, this is a good place to have a few drinks, dance, or just listen to the mix of house and electro throbbing from the speakers.
Lyon, France
Baroc
On weeknight evenings you're likely to see a gaggle of beautiful people huddled around a smallish looking pavilion next to the Pont Lafayette. It's probably the spillover from Baroc: this bar (and restaurant during the summer) features DJ nights and theme soirées, as well as Open Baroc on Thursdays. Despite the mix-and-match décor; it seems like Baroc can't decide between opulent decadence and gauzy Eastern sumptuousness and so has thrown it all together in a pastiche that surprisingly works. All in all, this is a good place to have a few drinks, dance, or just listen to the mix of house and electro throbbing from the speakers.
When you order pizza to be delivered to your home you are sometimes unpleasantly surprised to see that it has arrived greasy and unappetising; hardly reminiscent of your holidays in southern Italy. The Four à Pizza, as its name indicates, places the accent on the quality of cooking and preparation. From the classics to local specialities, there is bound to be a pizza to suit your taste-buds. If you are against pollution by moped, why not come and fetch your pizza from the premises?
Lyon, France
Le Four à Pizza
When you order pizza to be delivered to your home you are sometimes unpleasantly surprised to see that it has arrived greasy and unappetising; hardly reminiscent of your holidays in southern Italy. The Four à Pizza, as its name indicates, places the accent on the quality of cooking and preparation. From the classics to local specialities, there is bound to be a pizza to suit your taste-buds. If you are against pollution by moped, why not come and fetch your pizza from the premises?