For much of the Western world, the capitals of cool are London and Paris. London for its history, royalty, culture and world melting-pot vibe. Paris for its architecture, art, fashion and food. And right now, with the recent Brexit from the E.U., the dollar is strong and there are values to be had in travel to these areas. Airlines accommodate travelers by scheduling arrival in one city and departure from the other. And the Eurostar train running through the English Channel (called the “Chunnel” – short for Channel Tunnel) takes you from downtown London to Paris in just two hours. Now the most popular travel link between London and Paris, over 20 million passengers ride this train yearly. With tickets starting around $70.00, this is a total travel bargain.
On Offer in London
This teeming city of over 7 million is as multi-cultural as it gets, with scores of young, vibrant people from various countries in the British Commonwealth (called “The Club”, by the Queen) re-locating here and building new lives. It is thriving, shining and imminently welcoming to visitors.
The Royalty
You probably won’t get a chance to have tea with the Queen, but for a reasonable price you can have tea at the Orangery at Kensington Palace, home to Prince William and Princess Kate and their family, when they are in town.
Buckingham Palace is not to be missed, for its ever-popular Changing of the Queen’s Guard. It happens at 11:30 once a day during spring and summer, and on alternate days at other times of year. Be sure to get there early to get a good look at the somber gents decked out in red regalia and towering bearskin hats.
A short walk down the street is The Royal Mews – where the Royal horses and carriages are housed and cared for. For just a few pence you can rent an audio narration describing the various carriages and their uses.
Westminster Abbey has hosted no fewer than 38 coronations and 16 marriages, including the most recent one of Wills and Kate. As a bonus, many of Britain’s brightest and most creative minds are buried here, including William Shakespeare and T. S. Eliot. An evening service at this cathedral can be stunning, with the bells of the church pealing as you depart, and Big Ben’s clock tower overlooking the scene. The cathedral is open for worship on Sundays, holidays and some evenings. All are welcome, and there is no charge.
The scariest thing about the Tower of London these days is the price of admission, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying this remarkable venue. Retired military personnel with a flair for Thespianism wear the notorious Beefeater outfits and provide rollicking commentary, with a sprinkling of wry British humor, as you meander about. The lines can be long, but it is worth the wait to see the famous Crown Jewels in the Jewel House. They are so perfect, you’ll wonder if they can be real.
The Shopping
London is one of the most fashion-forward cities in the world. Vying for your loyalty are two supreme retailers: Harrod’s and Harvey Nichols (Harvey Nicks). Both situated in Knightsbridge, be sure to bring your credit card with the highest available credit, as “pricey” is an understatement here. But lovely cafes, restaurants and window shopping are available in both locales, and the Champage Bar at Harvey Nicks, with its cool, modern feel, will sweep you away. The peanuts are pretty good, too.
The Public Houses
With all that shopping and historical site viewing, you may have worked up a serious thirst. Londoners are known for their pints, and the occasional fancy cocktail thrown in to boot. Everywhere are the pubs of every ilk, design and name. Not far from the Tower of London is the “Hung, Drawn and Quartered.” Just round the bend from the Mews is the “Bag ‘O Nails”. Humor, ale and other libations are always on tap in London.
AND NOW…..PARIS
Paris is a much smaller city than London, so the walkability factor is increased considerably. Another convenient and scenic way to get around is by “bateaux “– the boats that make their way up and down the Seine River, stopping at many of the interesting points.
La Tour Eiffel
The crowning jewel of Paris, this recognizable symbol is known the world over. Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally intended to be a temporary installation. Now visitors can ride the elevators to the top for sweeping, panoramic views of Paris and its environs. It is splendid at all hours of the day, but especially in the evening, take in the light show on the hour, when the tower sparkles and its beacon shines into the night. Some of the best viewing of this iconic landmark is from Place du Trocadero.
The Art
Paris has always been a home to artists, writers and creative types of all backgrounds. It is a city that cherishes art, and Parisians imbue their children with a love of art from a very young age.
The Louvre Museum is definitely daunting, but it is arguably the most famous museum in the world, and something you won’t want to miss. Comprised of a network of galleries, over 35,000 artworks are showcased here. Some of the world’s most famous works are under its roof: the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Mona Lisa. Open every day except Tuesday, plan to go early and buy your tickets online ahead of time, to avoid the crowds.
The Musee d’Orsay is just a short walk away on the left bank of the Seine River, and its collection of impressionist paintings and sculptures is bountiful. Housed in a gloriously refurbished train station, it is hard to decide which is more breathtaking; the art or the architecture.
The Architecture: Notre Dame Cathedral
Considered by many to be the finest example of French Gothic style, this 800 year old cathedral draws pilgrims the world over. Stunning stained glass windows, soaring buttresses and airy vaults were designed to inspire awe in the worshippers of the day, and you’ll notice the effect is still working. But dazzling architecture abounds in this city–just look around you.
The Shopping
Paris may be THE fashion capital of the world, and true to form, two of the world’s top retailers are just a stone’s throw from each other:
Les Printemps and Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Both venues feature plenty of eye candy and scrumptious places to rendezvous and dine. As in London, items here are pricey, but the favorable exchange rate of the dollar for the Euro makes the pain a bit more bearable. Venture to the top of Les Printemps for more breathtaking views of Paris, for free!
The Wine
It’s France! ‘Nuff said. But for an insider’s experience, book a wine tasting event through Best Friend in Paris. A charming American entrepreneur living abroad, Donna Morris conducts personalized wine tours and shopping tours for visitors year round. Customize your stay and experience Paris the way the locals do. Reach her at Donna@bestfriendinparis.com.
And for all of your rental car needs no matter where you are in the world, be sure to check out All Star Travel’s great rates and special deals. Watch for our upcoming blog about day drives to fabulous country retreats close to London and Paris, to round out your trip to these two iconic cities.
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