France, Belgium, Monaco and Luxembourg
France
France is one of the most visited countries in the world and it's probably not a surprise that Paris, "The City of Lights" is high on most peoples' "must see" list. Paris is a magnificent city and a mecca of history and culture. Who can resist the splendor of the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the distance as you walk along the Seine, or the grandeur of Notre Dame Cathedral as it holds it's time honored place on the Ile Saint Louis. Perhaps you will be mesmerized by the museums. Musée du Louvre with the fascinating Mona Lisa, Musée d'Orsay with Europe's greatest collections of Impressionist works, Musée de l'Orangerie, home to the Monet Water Lilies in the round, or Musée Rodin for sculpture lovers. Window shopping along the Champs Elysées or rue Saint Honoré is an absolute must to feel Parisian as is dining in the many world class restaurants and cafes throughout the city. Paris is a city that is easy to navigate and is even easier to enjoy.
Outside the city and not to be missed is the majestic Palace of Versailles. The gardens and musical fountains are a great addition to the palace and can be enjoyed either before of after the palace. You will also want to explore and discover the many diverse regions of France. Western France has the spectacular Mont Saint Michel with its intriguing tides and Benedictine Abbey Church. Walk the D-Day beaches at Normandy and the sobering American Cemetery. If you venture to the south of France, the French Riviera, Provence and Côte d'Azur have many perched villages, charming towns, lavender fields and picturesque vistas. Wine enthusiasts might want to try the Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and Alsace regions for vineyard tours and winetastings. Some of the oldest wineries can be found in the Loire Valley region, but the it is also the showplace of many beautiful chateaux like Chateau de Chenonceau, Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Amboise and Chateau de Chaumont. If these options aren't enough, make it a point to wander to the mountainous regions of the Alps and the Pyrenees for a little skiing or hiking. It is easy to let the joie de vivre (joy of living) inspire you while traveling in France and it is certain to keep you longing to return!
Travel Tips
- If you plan to use the metro system to get around Paris, purchase a carnet (book of 10 tickets). This is usually the most cost effective way to get around.
- If you will be visiting the many splendid museums in Paris, buy a museum pass to make the most of your time. This pass will let you bypass the lines, saving you time and frustration.
- The best time to visit France is in the spring or fall when the weather is at its best. In the winter months you will find the best prices and the least amount of tourists. Summer, although a beautiful time in France can be hot and crowded. If at all possible avoid August when many of the French take their vacations.
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Belgium
Imagine a country with three official languages and an interesting multicultural feel. It's easy to experience a sense of welcome here. This multilingual nation is often called the Essence of Europe and is similar in size to Maryland. Belgium offers many of the best features that only Europe can provide. A visit to one of the hundreds of chocolatiers is as must, as Beligian chocolate is world renown. If it's beer you fancy, then begin your journey in Brussels and stop at the beer museum on Grand'Place. Brussels is also known as one of the world's most notable cosmopolitan capitals with the European Union and NATO located here. Always a favorite for water lovers and romantics alike, move on to Bruges for a relaxing cruise down a canal and take in the splendid medieval architecture. Back on land, make your way to the south side of Market square to see the 13th century Belfry, complete with 47 bells and a full time bell ringer. For a little variety you can take a chance and hunt for diamonds or perhaps just buy them on Antwerp's largest shopping street, Meir. For a more cultural aspect of Antwerp you can view three works by Rubens in the Cathedral of Our Lady or explore the beautiful baroque interior of St. Paul Church. No matter where you venture, the rail system in Belgium makes connections throughout the country an easy and popular choice for travelers.
Travel Tips
- As an alternate to walking in Brugge you can take a canal boat tour and really see the city known as the "Venice of the North".
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Monaco
Monaco is nestled along the coast of the Italian and French Rivieras and what comes to the minds of many travelers, is the spectacular mountain scenery, the wealth, excitement and blue waters of the Cote d'Azur. Monaco has festivals or events for almost every season and month. Choose the World Music Awards in March or the popular Formula 1 Grand Prix that takes place each May. If the festivals don't appeal to you, perhaps the 300 days of sunshine and moderate temperatures will. This is a principality dedicated to the arts, culture and gastronomy. Monte Carlo is one of Europes top resort areas with attractions like the Grand Théâtre de Monte Carlo, Prince's Palace and the world renowned Monte Carlo Casino. For such a small nation, Monaco is loaded with fun and excitement! This is one of those destinations that should be on your list!
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Luxembourg
Luxembourg may be one of the smallest countries in Europe, but you may be pleasantly surprised by its appeal. This trilingual country combines many customs from throughout Europe. Luxembourg city has an array of interesting sites and has both an upper and lower city. The upper city has Bock Casemates and its network of passages and tunnels that were designed by Austria to make Luxembourg into an extreme fortress. Catch a glimpse of the Castle Bridge that can be seen next to the Bock Casemates The city is also home to a quaint square lined with cafes, place d'Armes. Stop on the square for lunch at La Boucherie, a fun little restaurant with a cow theme and decor. If your lucky you may even catch a music concert on the square while you eat. Behind the bandstand is a memorial in honor of Michel Lentz, the composer of the Lusembourg national hymn. The New Municipal Theatre, the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge and Casino Luxembourg are also in among the sites in th upper city. The lower city, draws us to the Modern European Centre where the footpaths will lead to grand panoramic views of Luxembourg.
From Luxembourg City we make our way northeast to Vianden. This is a very popular holiday destination. Once surrounded by a fortified wall with multiple towers and gateways. The medieval castle is the largest in Luxembourg and has been renovated to its full glory. To get the most breathtaking view in Vianden, take the chair lift to the summit of the Belvedere and look out over the Our Valley. Last, but certainly not least is the widely know Vianden Nut Market (Veiner Nessmoort). On the first Sunday in October, it is all about the nut festival. Just about every cake, bread, pastry, liqueur, and product containing nuts can be found here. This could be a very delicious way to discover Luxembourg!
