I think I’m posting this in the right place. Mods, please feel free to move if necessary.
I’m planning to take a break for a few days after Christmas to visit Paris. I’ve been there twice before, but for business only. I believe they call this foreign experience a vacation. I’m open to any suggestions dopers may have as to how I should structure my trip, including sites I should see, things I should do, food I should eat, and people I should meet.
Here’s my tentative plan:
I depart Philadelphia International via British Airways on Wednesday, December 27, to arrive in London the morning of the 28th. I have a choice here of either a connecting flight to Paris, or the Eurostar train through the channel to Paris. I’m leaning toward the train because it’s something I’ve wanted to do since the word “Chunnel” was in vogue. So, my first question is am I crazy for considering the train? Second question is how the heck does one get to Waterloo station from Heathrow with luggage and without too much hassle?
Once I get to Paris, I’ll probably cab it over to wherever I’m going to stay, which brings me to my next question. Where should I stay? I was thinking about doing the whole old-world-charm thing, but I need amenities, man, which, for me means an ethernet port in my room at a minimum. I’d like something relatively close to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre as well.
Okay, now that I’ve dumped my bags at the only 4-star Chateau in Paris that happens to have in-room ethernet, I’m raring for some great French food. Obstacle: I’m not into snails, frogs, foie-gras, or anything slimy. So, what are the recommended etablissements du cuisine? Also, what dish(es) would you consider a must to try
Next, activities-schmactivities. Covered boatride down the Seine, check. Visit the Louvre, check. Climb the Eiffel, check. Stroll and shop on the Champs Elysees, check. What else? I have a few days to fill until New Year’s eve.
Ah, New Year’s eve. Choices, choices, so many choices. The New Year’s Eve events I seem to come across at every turn are the New Year’s Eve Special at the Lido and the New Year’s Eve Gala at Paradis Latin. They both seem fine, but just fine. Is there anything spectacular planned that I should look into for this festive night?
I’ve checked the weather forecast, as well as weather trends for this time of year for Paris, which seems to be about the same as Philly, so is winter-wear in order?
The day after New Year’s day I fly back to the States to resume my life of indentured servitude, and that’s basically it.
So, if anyone has recommendations or answers to any of my queries I would be incalculably grateful.
TIA