subject: The Many Faces of Paris [print this page] How much do you think you know about Paris? The first things that jump to mind are always the more obvious ones. Think about the Eiffel Tower for example, and Disneyland Paris too, which isn't far away from the centre of the city.
Are the main sights all there is to enjoy in the city? Or does it have another undiscovered side as well?
It is fine to take in the most popular sights such as the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe while you are there. Don't fall for the myth that this is all there is to the city. Just as with virtually every other city on the planet, there is an undiscovered side to Paris that is well worth looking for.
For example don't stick to the Seine for nice waterfront walks. Find the Canal St Martin instead, which shows you just one of the other faces the city has to offer. The Place de Stalingrad conveniently a stop on the Paris Metro will bring you to the start of the canal. Look out for the double lock which will introduce you to the length of the canal, which runs for just over two and a half miles. You can walk all the way along its length until you meet the Seine itself. It is a delightful way to spend a few hours, especially if you stop en route for a bite to eat.
Another secret to seeing a different side of Paris is to focus on the higher numbered arrondissements it has to offer. An arrondissement is a district of Paris, and the major well known sights are typically dotted around in the centre in the lower numbered areas. As the districts spiral out from the centre they go up in number and there is still plenty to be found in the double digit arrondissements.
The bohemian feel of the eastern arrondissements is a good example. If you want to find a nice caf to while away a couple of hours, this is the place to go. Even if you are a tourist yourself you may still want to escape the other tourists: those who stick to the main sights and never go beyond them. You can do just that when you venture into the outskirts of Paris to see what else you can find.
Finally, while you are in the eastern part of the city why not try the Bois de Vincennes? This is a delightful park loved by all those who have discovered it. With its man made lake and peaceful surroundings, it is hard to believe you are still in Paris at all.
As you can see, a Paris city break can be enjoyed in more ways than you might at first imagine.
The Many Faces of Paris
By: Isla Campbell
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