If you decide to go to Paris, there are some things you should see, even if you don't want to do the tourist traps;o)

- See the Eiffel Tower, even if it is from the other side of the river.

- The Louvre from the outside, you don't have to go inside... but the courtyard with the glass pyramid is breathtaking!

- Take a walk in front of Notre Dame cathedral, cross the river and have a coffee in the café opposite!

- Take the funicular up to Notre Dame Basilica, fabulous views of Paris, then stroll through the little streets of Montmartre to Place du Tertre, the artist's quarters of Paris. (Au Lapin Agile is a well known nightclub, in the area, also the restaurant, La Mère Catherine)

- If you are technologically or scientifically minded a real must is the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. This is a giant and ultra advanced hands on museum, anything in science and technology in the world is represented there (Metro: Porte de la Villette, open Tuesdays to Sundays 9a.m. - 6p.m.)

- For some excitement...take a tour of the sewer system of Paris!!! It is great! (In front of no. 93 Quai d'Orsay, near museum, Saturday to Wednesday 11a.m. to 4p.m.).

- Walk around the small streets on the left bank between the river and Blvd. Saint Germain des Près...that is where you will find the small bistros (restaurants), nightclubs. If you like jazz the two best jazz clubs in Paris are here, both in Rue Saint Benoit: Le Montana Jazz Club and Le Bilboquet. Have a coffee in Aux Deux Magots, maybe the most famous of Paris cafés, where you will see anyone who is someone... it is the big café on the corner of Blvd. Saint Germain and Place Saint Germain. You might also like to go to the famous Lido with the famous topless shows!!! (with lots of feathers in the old Zigfield tradition!). The Lido is in the Ave. des Champs Elysées.

As you will only be there a few days I suggest you buy yourself a Paris guide, and study it (a little...) before you go. It will save you time. The best way to see Paris is walking, so a map is essential. If you take the Metro (subway) you can buy a carnet of 10 tickets, cheaper than individual tickets. Each ticket is valid for one trip, always keep your ticket until you've left the subway. There is also a tourist ticket valid for 3 or 4 days.

Here is a website that might interest you: http://www.paris.org/

Lilian