Go to Paris!

The French capital is one of the most stimulating cities on earth. Is it the elegance of the tree-lined boulevards? The radiance of the light? The magnificence of the architecture? The style and ambience of the cafes? It is difficult to say. Come to find out...

Thinking to Paris, the tourists have in mind a lot of superlatives and travel clichés. You can usually find whatever you expect or hope to discover. But set aside your preconceptions of Paris, and simply explore the city's avenues, backstreets and parks. Try to forget about Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre Dame. Put away your map and just wander! Your path will inevitably cross one of the city's famous parks and gardens. Many were once the private domains of French royalty, but today they are free to all. A short Métro ride from the city center will bring you to either of the two vast former royal forests that border the city, the Bois de Boulogne in the west or the Bois de Vincennes in the east.

Just wander! But have in mind the city's reputation as an expensive place to visit and always keep with you a French conversation book.