Saturday, February 4, 2012

Visit Paris

What is the best time to visit Paris?

The much-lauded Paris in springtime is the obvious choice but your budget and your ability to handle thronging crowds need to be taken into account. A Parisian feels that Paris is charming always, whatever the season!

Let’s take one season at a time. To begin with the proverbial crowd-puller, spring has millions coming forth in their hunt for that idyllic Paris they have heard about. And Paris does not give you the slip. Spring gives you the taste of both sun and showers, with temperatures hovering around 14 degrees Celsius.

The mood all around is pretty upbeat; lazing outdoors and enjoying the colorful landscapes, all of which can leave you intoxicated. This season sees the resurgence of the famed café terrace culture. You could spend hours exploring the parks and the gardens and look forward to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and Easter in Paris.

However, every first-timer wants to experience Paris in spring and this sees the airfare and the hotel rates shooting up. You need to plan well in advance and make the bookings months ahead and also gear yourself to brave long lines.

Summer is supposed to be the least Parisian of all the four seasons. It does see an exodus of locals to other tourist spots and an influx of visitors. In summer, you get to hear a medley of languages. You can take boat tours or walking tours to get around the city and the Paris Street Music Festival draws huge crowds. There is a sudden spurt of open-air events and the visitors create a relaxed and carefree atmosphere.

This season also sees an increase in airfare and the attractions are overcrowded. The sudden spells of rain and intense heat at times, can take a toll on your energy levels, since Paris is a city better seen on foot.

Fall is marked by a surge of energy as people roll back to business. Plenty of exhibitions and shows to choose from, even a stroll in the park, resplendent in fall foliage has its own charm. The approaching winter is heralded by the crispness in the air. Shorter days and longer nights allow you to enjoy the nightlife of this City of Lights. Airfares do see a much-awaited dip and hotel rates are somewhat reasonable.

The months of October and November can see dark and cold days and this does nothing to cheer the mood of the residents. During fall, Parisians are supposed to be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Winter does not bring relief but remains low key with perpetual rain and a gloomy atmosphere. The holiday season comes as a savior. The City of Lights is lighted up even more and the decorations create a surreal ambience. The traditional French Christmas markets are set up and people look forward to cheerful New Year celebrations. Some of the attractions are closed to visitors owing to the inclement weather but Parisians seem to enjoy the city, left mostly to themselves.

Any which season, Paris remains beautiful and attractive. So no matter the season that you are traveling to Paris in, you’ll always have a gala time in this City of Lights.

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