December Travel Tips #2

Visit this official Paris website, brought to you by the 'Office du Tourisme et des Congres': http://en.parisinfo.com/our-online-publications-to-browse-through-and-download/
What you will find are online publications to browse through and download including Paris maps, City Guides, Paris Gourmand Guide - Good Food Guide, Paris Shopping Guide, the Visiting Paris guide which has interpreter guides, lecturer guides and companies specialising in cultural or thematic tours, maps of each district in Paris (if your staying in Montmartre for example you can see the map of Montmartre) and finally the Paris around the Eiffel Tower guide.

This months favourite Paris Travel website/blog is: 

www.girlsguidetoparis.com 

(despite it's title, it's also very useful for the fellas). It's JAM packed full of information about shopping, dining, culture and art, tips to prepare you before you fly, maps, links etc, fabulous french finds, lots of resources and even recipes of the month, wine of the month, fan photos…

Experience a visit to the famous Paris flea Markets. Ok there are thousands so here are just a few for now:

1.    1. Porte De Vanves Flea Market aka Marche aux Puces des Porte de Vanves. Best way to describe this is: ‘like peering in the window of an elderly neighbours apartment’. This is our favourite antique and vintage marketplace in Paris. Open: Every Saturday and Sunday 7am – 1pm. Address: 14^eme – Avenue Marc Sangier and Avenue Georges Lafenestre. www.pucesdevanves.typepad.com

2.  

 2. Marche du livre Ancien et d’Occasion. Over 100 vendors offering specialty 

out-of-print books. As cheap as 1euro each or by weight. It’s worthwhile 

just to see the vendors sit at card tables drinking wine, eating baguettes 

and cheese and chatting with customers. We found a delightful classic 

children’s book for 1euro. 

        Open: Saturday & Sunday 9am-6pm  

Address: Park Georges Brassens, Rue Brancion – 15th arrondissement.

        

        The Markets of Paris – is the market Bible of Paris. Find it on Amazon or the 

Book Depository. 

         

         

        

         We'll be posting our B&B News for December shortly -  Lots of Discounts of special Paris apartments and our newest addition to the family - a B&B in the 9th arrondissement - Opera/Lafayette area for a beautiful 88euro per night (104euro per night for 2 people) - its gorgeous! Stay tuned!!

       www.petiteparis.com.au

Paris Romantique 2011

Paris Romantique Suites available in February 2011 are:


1. B&B297 - click here to see the full description, images and rates for this B&B.

2. B&B272 - click here to see the full description, images and rates for this B&B.

3. B&B268 - click here to see the full description, images and rates for this B&B.

4. B&B104 - click here to see the full description, images and rates for this B&B.

5. B&B101 - click here to see the full description, images and rates for this B&B.

For more information, or more B&B availability please contact me on: info@petitepr.com.au

www.petiteparis.com.au

France down under

We've been making some wonderful friends lately! We had no idea there were SO many Australian based companies, websites and services all dedicated to bringing a touch of France to Australia. Hurrah just what we need!! 


So today's post is dedicated to French Culture in Australia and our wonderful friends that make this possible. If your travelling to Paris we recommend going to these websites and making use of the products and services e.g french languages lessons in preparation for your trip, travel planning advice in France, french recipes, news about all things (and events) French in Oz, travel products for purchase and more. 


What we adore is that all of these companies operate on a labour of love. Nothing but love and passion for French Culture. Just like us at Petit, they're up until the wee hours updating, posting and connecting - for you!!!


1. French Affair - www.frenchaffair.com.au

Jump on this website and indulge in the complete French experience with French products, how to learn French fast, fun France facts and more. French Affair is all about a love of all things French and creating a french community. They are also Partners for the annual Brisbane French Festival. this years was held on Saturday July 17th 2010 - and what an amazing day! Around 50,000 people came to enjoy the Brisbane French Festival at Southbank, Brisbane. The Festival was a wonderful success attracting: Around 50,000 visitors, 9 sponsors, 2 successful community grants, 63 exhibitors, 24 acts on the main stage as well as roving entertainment. Watch the youtube video here and make sure you get to the festival in 2011. www.frenchaffair.com.au

2. FRENCH MOMENTS www.frenchmoments.com

• Our friends at French moments are all about immersing yourself in the french life and culture. Based in Mosman (Sydney) in the lower Nth Shore, Pierre and Rachel specialise in intimate French Lessons, focusing on smaller class sizes for more intensive and personalised learning. Its the kind of ideal learning environment that will satisfy and enhance your study of the language. They also offer wonderful Travel advice, participate and organise various cultural events throughout the year and organise trips to France. They have kindly offer to assist our B&B guests with any travel advice and planning by meeting at their charming studio for a small fee. We recommend our guests meet Rachel and Pierre for lessons and travel planning. You will thank yourself! Also private tuitions are available, french book club meetings, french lessons and recipes and so much more. Its a complete immersion. Go to the website for more information -  www.frenchmoments.com.au 

3. FRENCH CLASS www.frenchclass.com.au

frenchclass offers a three-course menu of grammar, culture and gastronomy. 

Entrée - Grammar
frenchclass embraces the philosophy of Active Learning, which is the key to rapid learning. Whether taking classes in Sydney or joining us on one of our tours in France, frenchclass will help you gain confidence and progress to a new level of proficiency. frenchclass provides a relaxed learning environment suitable for all levels and its specially designed program offers plenty of opportunity to practice and apply newly learned language skills.
Plat du jour - Culture
frenchclass believes that the best way to learn a language is to gain an understanding of the culture.


frenchclass in Sydney offers you the opportunity to celebrate and participate in French cultural events including Bastille Day, Beaujolais Nouveau, and several food and wine celebrations. frenchclass in France is offering you the opportunity to immerse yourself in French culture as we explore local regions of France including visits to local markets, producers, wineries and historic sites.
Dessert - Gastronomy
What better way to improve your French language skills than while savoring the flavors of French cuisine. The French are known for their culinary expertise and this element plays a strong role in frenchclass. Join us in Sydney as we sample a range of French restaurants and cafés, or indulge in authentic French cuisine during one of our packages in France. frenchclass invites you to try out your culinary skills as we provide recipes for your favorite French dishes, or by participating in hands-on cooking classes with us in France
frenchclass

frenchclass in Paddington at 32 Glenmore Road. The program was developed by Martine Baboin and Miriam Macpherson.


4. 2DUCK TRADING Co. www2ducktrading.com.au 

Frenchclass has expand and join forces with 2 Duck Trading company the French market basket specialists. 

In addition to their range of French gourmet food they are now selling an exclusive range of authentic French market baskets.

Made with date palm leaf they are fashioned into a range of lovely shapes and sizes. They have the classic market basket shape with short and long handles, leather trim or plain. Round bucket shapes, beautiful coloured rectangular baskets and so much more. 

It is the perfect solution for all your market shopping, trips to the beach and lugging around all the children’s paraphenalia and helps us all get rid of plastic bags.

Visit the website to see which markets who can find 2duck trading at!

Vive la France!

www.petiteparis.com.au

A Parisian apartment for New Years Eve??

Looking for your New Years eve rental in Paris? Look no further! Here are our remaining B&B apartments:
1.

Click here to view this B&B

B&B268 - Genevieve's apartment  - offering you a completely private independent suite within her apartment with your own private entry, a lounge and dining area, a large open terrace that wraps around the suite and modern tasteful decorating - all with the convenience of being within walking distance to all the major attractions and hotspots - being near the Hotel De Ville, Place des Vosges, and in the heart of the trendy marais.


Click the image to be taken to the complete description of this apartment on our website including complete photo gallery


Availability: 28 December 2010 - 6 January 2011


Price: 183 euro per night for 1 person
205euro per night for 2 persons


Location: 3rd arrondissement


Map: See below



View Petite Paris B&B #268 in a larger map


2. 

click image for more images/info

B&B188 Genevieve's apartment. Located on the 17th floor this residence is one of the rare Parisian homes that everyone wants thanks to its REMARKABLE view across Paris. Witness the spectacular lightshow from your private terrace from the Sacre Coeur to the Eiffel tower. As a guest you have the entire second floor to yourself , private bathroom and access to the dining and living areas. 


Click the image to be taken to the complete description of this apartment on our website including complete photo gallery.


Availability: 28 December 2010 - 3 January 2011


Price: 140euro per night for 1 person
159euro per night for 2 persons


Location: 10th arrondissement


Map: see below



View Petite Paris Apt #188 in a larger map

click here for more images / info

3. B&B272 - Annie and Brice's apartment. Located in Montmartre this haven is exclusively for you. Your own apartment unhosted in a quiet peaceful spot where you will enjoy the song of the birds. Enjoy the quaint village feel of Montmartre and you are just steps away from the Place du Tertre. And guess what??? This apartment once belonged to the famous French Impressionist 'Pissaro'. It holds up to 4 people. 


Click the image to be taken to the complete description of this apartment on our website including complete photo gallery.


Availability: 29 December 2010 - 4 January 2011


Price: 125euro per night for 1 person
145euro per night for 2 persons
170euro per night for 3 persons
180euro per night for 4 persons


Location: 18th arrondissement


Map: please see below

View Petite Paris Apt #272 in a larger map

click here for more images / info

4. B&B246 - Helene's B&B. In the beautiful sort after Left Bank, specifically the enchanting Latin Quarter this apartment is a charmer. With a private spacious bedroom and private bathroom and an attentive host to ensure you are always comfortable while practising discretion and hospitality. 


Availability: 29 December 2010 - 4 January 2011


Price: 135euro per night for 1 person
145euro per night for 2 persons
185euro per night for 3 perosns


Location: 5th arrondissement


Map: see below

View Petite Paris Apt#246 in a larger map

click here for more images / info

5. B&B345 - Annie's apartment. Indulge in the less touristy district - in a more 'real' area that has kept the traditional quaint parisian village of old. Connect with true natives and enjoy an apartment full of character and warmth. A romantic room ideal for couples located within a historical haussmann building that is peaceful and quiet. Near the Pere Lachaise cemetary. 


Click on the image to see more information and a photo gallery for this apartment.


Availability: 29 December - 4 January 2011


Price: 110euro per night for 1 perosn
115 euro per night for 2 persons


Location: 20th arrondissement


Map: see below

View Petite Paris Apt #345 in a larger map


For Bookings contact: info@petitepr.com.au 
Or visit our website Booking Enquiries page here.

www.petiteparis.com.au

NYE in Paris - what to do!

As the city of lights, love and Dom Perignon, Paris is always ranked as one of the top New Years tourist destinations. Not surprising of course. Whether your style is fine dining, a clubbing all-nighter or a glass of champers on the sacre coeur, or by la seine watching the eiffel's twinkling light show; we've put together a list of the very best Paris has to offer...thanks to our Bed & Breakfast hosts who have supplied us with some ideas: 

1. Not a fan of crowds but still want a taste of the action? Head to Sacre Coeur Cathedral Plaza in beautiful Montmartre – another favourite (yet significantly calmer) place to bid the year farewell. From here, assuming the skies are relatively clear, you will delight in a spectacular view of the Paris skyline including the stunning light show on the Eiffel Tower. While still relatively crowded, the Montmartre street party is significantly more laid-back than its Champs-Elysees counterpart, and there are always plenty of nearby bars, cabarets and clubs to explore in the nearby Pigalle.

2. New Years Dining? Score a great deal by wandering along the city streets a week or even a few days before the big night.  You could easily find a great budget option by wandering the cobblestoned streets of beautiful Montmartre.


3. Major fireworks displays can usually be seen from the Champs-Elysees, and there are plenty of spots to go dancing or dining before or after midnight on the area. Although the ambience here is usually harmless, partying in the Champs Elysees calls for you to be especially aware of your belongings, as pick-pockets are common. Also, this wont be the party of choice if you're claustrophobic or crowd-shy.

4. Cabaret Shows. Along with dinner why not feast your eyes on a traditional cabaret show? New Years eve is an ideal time to indulge in all those Parisian cliches that everyone should experience at some point. 

Lido, Champs Elysees

Moulin Rouge, Montmatre

The Moulin Rouge is a classic, as is Lido - both with special NYE dinner and shows.


5. Party the night away!
Parisian streets are choc-a-bloc with bars and clubs that will stay open until the wee hours of the following morning! 
For those seeking a plethora of cocktail choices, head direct to Wake Up Paris – a cute and quirky bar and restaurant in the Marais district, which offers up an eclectic Brazilian music background…and one hell of a caipirinha! Another great choice for a champagne cocktail is Flûte l’Étoile – a small and intimate bar with red sofas, a fireplace, soft lighting and soothing music near the Arc de Triomphe…how very romantic!

Flutebar

Or try one of the city's top clubs - the Noveau Casino. Large and open the dance floor here is the main attraction. The Wagg is another French club that is a spot worthy of those wondering where to go on New Years Eve in Paris. Its a place you can dance and drink the night away. 

NYE at The Wagg, St Germain des Pres

6. Traditional Restaurants and Brasseries
Famous for traditional French brasserie fare, special New Years Eve dining is offered at:
Brasserie Flo (Metro Chateau d'Eau, Line 4)
Le Boeuf sur le Toit (Metro Franklin D. Roosevelt, line 9)


7. Dinner Cruises. A pricey yet amazing way to see Paris light up.
Try: Yachts de Paris offering gourmet NYE dinner cruises on the seine river. 
Bateaux Parisiens offers a comparable dinner cruise that includes musical entertainment.

Bateaux Parisien

8. Family choice: For the best front-row view of festivities, head early to Champ de Mars park in front of the Eiffel Tower. Bring wine, a picnic and an excess of warm clothing!

9. Family Dining: The Peniche Métamorphosis: is a perfect choice for families. It offers not only a special New Year’s magic show, but also a separate set menu for kids (at only a third of the adult menu price). The four-course dinner will include mouth-watering meals of foie gras, duck, salmon, crayfish, rich chocolate and quality champagne! Where? On shore, facing 3 Quai de Montebello, Paris. Time? Dinner from 10:30pm. Show from 10pm. Price? €150 for adults, €50 for kids. 


10. Christmas/NYE Illumination Tours: you will enjoy an illumination tour in open top motorcoach during 1 hour and a half. During Christmas, until Jan 2nd, Paris at night is wonderfully illuminated, with colours and lights which give the city a magical and unique atmosphere ! Let yourself be carried by the magic and romance of Paris on our open top double decker buses: Opéra, Vendôme, Concorde, Champs Elysées, Tour Eiffel, Invalides, Louvre, and the big department stores… a unique tour under the city lights that will get you into the NYE spirit.

Wondering where to stay in Paris over New Years Eve?? Stay tuned - we'll post the available B&B's shortly. Alternatively contact us on info@petitepr.com.au 


Bonne Annee xx