New Gems Of Paris
Sun, sea and sand………….with the summer arriving, these are usually the three focal points of a lot of tourists. So, where to go? Spain, the Caribbean maybe, Paris…Yes, you did read Paris! A city normally connected with culture and romance; a cosmopolitan city break location, certainly not a sunny, relaxing getaway. Wrong! While Paris is all of this, during the summer months the capital gets transformed into a paradise beach location. The Paris Plage initiative launched in 2002 by the mayor, Bertrand Delanoe attempts to create a metropolitan beach scene to enable locals and tourists alike to enjoy the sun and relax on the beach in one of Europe’s cultured capitals. From July 20th to August 15th, anyone in Paris will be able to enjoy all the cultural activities while at the same time enjoy guilt free relaxing, before returning to your luxoury Paris accommodation. If you feel pressured to do some ‘cultural’ traveling while at the same time you long to feel the sand in between you toes, Paris really is THE destination for you this summer. Three central locations have been proposed for this year’s initiative, and the transformation has begun. The three beaches will all have a different theme, enabling everyone to have their first choice type of beach. The themes are as follows: Tropical, activity and metropolitan. They all boast different activities, styles and ambiance, so there’s something for everyone. And the best thing about this initiative is that entrance and all activities are completely free.
The first beach, located near the Louvre to Pont de Sully, is the most traditional choice, with grass and sandy beaches, chaise longues, mini pools, games and activities. This location has a series of beach huts and beach side caffées that serve as a great pit stop to cool down in during the day and as an entertainment zone during the night, when things liven up with free concerts and events. Location number two is located at the banks of the Seine and the Loire (Quai de Seine and Quai de Loire). This is a great opportunity for any water sports enthusiasts to show off their skills. But not to worry if you’re not quite the ‘master’ at it as there are instructors on hand to help you sift through the many activities: Kayaks, pedalboats, sailboats, canoes etc. The zone is open until 9p.m, and entry to the beach, including all activities are free of charge. This second area boasts 53,000 square feet of water, numerous beach bars and cafes and an open-air exhibit of artwork and during the nights there will be a reduced price open-air cinema. If all that wasn’t enough, the third beach adds to the endless possibilities Paris will offer this summer. Located near the National Library and the Port de la Gare, this third location will be the sleek cosmopolitan scene. Free children and adult books, free newspapers and WiFi access are some of the commodities that you can look forward to here. Enjoy a cold drink or a splash in the pool during the day and then take advantage of watching the sun go down over the Seine while enjoying the free live music on offer between 6.30 and 8pm. With all of this going on, it really is important to consider booking your Hotel in Paris or your Paris apartments early, and certainly near by.
