Monday, September 29, 2008

Hotel de Sully Bookshop - Paris

From the Centre des Monuments Nationaux

Hôtel de Sully bookshop:

The bookshop is situated between the courtyard and garden of the Hôtel de Sully, a splendid example of Renaissance architecture in which Henri IV's celebrated minister lived out his last days. The site is open every day, including Sunday, and attracts an international clientele, as much for the beauty of the spot as for its exceptional collection of books.The bookshop aims to cover the wealth of French national heritage, including the full range of titles published by Editions du Patrimoine and a selection of specialized publications, unrivalled in all of France.

This rich collection is organised partly by region, highlighting a number of small book publishers whose limited editions cannot be found elsewhere. A significant section is devoted to Paris alone. Cross-classification of titles by theme facilitates a deeper inquiry into each subject, whether it be history, architecture, fine arts, design, literature, gardens or photography. All readers passionate about French heritage throughout the ages will find everything they could wish for.

Far from concentrating uniquely on the past, however, the bookshop holds debates on contemporary artistic and literary endeavours, architecture, and urban development, inviting those actively engaged in contributing to the future heritage of France. Whether amateur or specialist, casual passer-by or intentional visitor, everyone from far and wide will delight in the wonderful choice of books found in this tranquil spot. Orders may also be placed with our booksellers who, if requested, will mail them to customers.

This unique space with clearly displayed books and carefully selected new titles will surprise and delight all readers, including children. A special section for young readers offers appealing items, chosen with the same care and enthusiasm. Our adjoining garden, or the neighbouring Place des Vosges, provides a peaceful respite after your visit.

The bookshop is open daily, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hôtel de Sully bookshop62, rue Saint-Antoine75004 ParisTel. +33 (1) 44 61 21 75Fax. +33 (1) 44 61 22 10


Here are some interesting upcoming events for visitors to Paris and Mont St Michel - a possible day trip from Paris:

"Zola au Panthéon" L'Exposition « Zola au Panthéon » through Oct 31; focusing on the famous writer's work and the Dreyfus Affair that engulfed France in the period of 1893-1908.

Between Heaven and Earth : Mont-Saint-Michel and sacred mounts around the world. The photographic exhibitionPhotographs of sacred mountain sites now listed as Unesco World Heritage Sites will be on display both inside and outside the abbey church on Mont-Saint-Michel. The photographs have all been taken by Jean-Michel Guillaud, the official photographer of the Photodrame association. Through November 11.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Picking up some Euros before Travel

It is regularly recommended to try to have some Euros in your pocket before arriving in Europe on your flight from abroad. Because exchange bureaus in the country of origin are always very expensive, its best to get a small amount only and then plan to either get more when in Europe or pay for things differently - like credit card for example.


We advise our clients to take about 250 euros in cash for arrival. This would come in handy to pay a taxi ride, if necessary, or cover a tip to your pre-booked transfer. It will cover the breakfast or something to eat upon arrival since most flights from the USA arrive early morning. It should cover some small items like this on your arrival. Yes, you can change money at the airport, and use the cash machine at the airport, and do the same in downtown Paris when you arrive. But you will have no obligation or stress to do so if you have a little pocket money first.


How best to do it. Unfortunately, you have to pay the high exchange rates. But, a number of online options exist and the money is shipped right to you. So, you don't have to leave work and go to your bank and have them do lots of paperwork. Here is a link we just enrolled with that we recommending for our travelers. It is reputable and is used by many other large travel organizations: https://www.ezforex.com/login.asp?Affiliate=2962&WebUser=12417


bon voyage!

Monday, September 15, 2008

Paris Pass vs. Paris Museum & Metro

Which is the better deal? One sounds great, but the others add up to more in most cases.

We did consider selling the Paris Pass, the new pass produced by an English company for use in Paris, but really when you scratch the surface, there isn't so much more that justifies the cost. It does of course depend a little on the end user and if they find value in some of the 'extras'. There are convenience matters too. We did a comparison, you can draw your own conclusions. See this link on our site: http://www.gotoparis.net/paris_pass_comparison.php

In the end, we believe purchasing a museum and metro pass is a better deal. You get the duration you need and not more. You get the main sites and a lot of smaller sites. You don't have to complicate your travel with extras that we believe don't have much value.

We do welcome any feedback agreeing or disagreeing!

L

Thursday, September 11, 2008

The Last Guillotine in France

In 1791, t he French National Assembly was seeking a new method of execution. Former methods were considered too inhumane, such as the infamous "breaking on the wheel". Assembly member Joseph-Ignace Guillotin suggested the construction of a device to decapitate the accused with a steel blade. THe guillotine was the official method of execution in France until the abolition of the death penalty in 1981. Its last usage was to execute a murderer, Hamida Djandoubi, on September 10, 1977.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Paris Metro - The Pass Or a Voucher?

We do ship the actual pass from our offices in the USA to our customers who order them. As an official distributor of the RATP we have direct wholesaler pricing and because our volume and payment history is so good, we have the opportunity to sell vouchers as well.

Why a voucher? Well, its perfect for the following persons:

1. live outside the USA where shipping costs are very high - we would say prohibitively high!
2. last minute purchase - you just found us but there is no time to ship or the cost to do so is not interesting

How does it work?

You can order a voucher on our website just like you do the actual pass, here is the link:
http://www.gotoparis.net/paris-metro-voucher.php

You take the voucher we send you by email (after you print it out) and redeem it for the actual passes purchased at 1 of 3 locations in Paris. The locations are pretty convenient: CDG airport, Gare du Nord, or the Louvre. Almost all travelers to Paris will hit one of these locations!

Then, you have the actual pass to use as you see fit. BUT WAIT - there is MORE!!!

Not only can you order the metro pass by voucher, but also the Open Tour bus, Disneyland tickets, and also CHILD TICKETS. We also have some additional durations available by voucher that we don't stock in our office.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

New Show at Paradis Latin

The Fall belongs to the Paradis à Folie

Paradis Latin is proud to announce the debut of its new show Paradis à la Folie on October 1, 2008. The mythical Paradis Latin transforms into a magical garden where a masked ball, enchanted carousel and graceful dancers will draw you in to a farandole of scenes full of surprise and gaiety. Directed by the famed Christian Dura, Paradise à la Folie is a cocktail of musical comedy and lavish fanfare of modern ballet. The night ends on the perfect note—dancing on the famous stage until midnight. This new revue joins the extravagant and comedic universe that the spectacular cabaret in which Paris is famous.



Book your tickets now for an incredible night of awe inspiring dance, music and laughter!


http://www.gotoparis.net/paradis.php

Monday, September 8, 2008

New Blog to host Paris Travel Content

In this blog, we'll maintain news/info about travel to/from Paris. What to see, what's going on, and some insight on what travelers should consider before going and what to plan for when they are there.