Visiting Paris, France has long been a “Bucket List” item for most world travelers. Paris has so much to offer and provides visitors a wide range of both city tours and activities. Often called “The City of Light” due to its stunning boulevards and bridges. Today, there are almost 300 illuminated sites in Paris. For example, churches, hotels, fountains, statues, national buildings and of course monuments.

Yes, the city can get expensive. Yet, there are many free things to do. Can visit some of the beautiful public gardens, like Jardin des Tuileries, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont or Jardin du Luxembourg. In addition, admire the religious architecture of Sacré-Cœur, Saint-Genevieve and Sainte-Chapelle for free. Plus, be sure to see the iconic Moulin Rouge.

There’s no way you’ll get to see all the city’s museums, shops, attractions and districts. Therefore, it is important to plan your own itinerary and experience Paris on your own terms. Yet, don’t miss out on other notable city jewels. These include the Luxembourg Gardens, Musée d’Orsay or Le Marais. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the iconic Champs-Élysées.

With so many options to choose, we are sharing five fun things to do in Paris

Arc de Triomphe

(photo above)
Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon. The monument honors the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. Interestingly, the impressive arch is the largest of its kind in the world. You will notice several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean’s Empire. Plus, view names of the generals who fought in them.

Plus, travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The eternal flame lit when the soldier was laid to rest, has not extinguished since. This occurred in the 1920s. In addition, climb to the top of the famous arch and take in the mighty Paris panorama.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Worldwide news covered the devastating fire at the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral. On April 15, 2019, the cathedral sustained major damage. For example, its wooden roof and spire collapsed. As a result, the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. Plans are for it to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit – “Notre-Dame de Paris: at the heart of the construction site.” This free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site. In addition, see remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral.

Similar to the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is definitely a Parisian icon. It sits along the picturesque River Seine. Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and considered as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral began in the late 12th century. Yet, final touches were not made until nearly 200 years later.

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur)

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning “Sacred Heart”) looks more like a white castle than a basilica. It towers over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre. This masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. The basilica’s interior is quite impressive. For example, its ceilings glitter with France’s largest mosaic. Beautifully, it depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc. Lastly, be sure to take in the stunning, panoramic views from atop the Sacré-Coeur’s outdoor staircase.

Eiffel Tower

Constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World’s Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure. Gustav Eiffel is chief architect of the Eiffel Tower. A variety of scientific experiments were done on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan.

Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

Last but not least, the Versailles Palace, is a former seat of power and located 10 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles. Each year, nearly 10 million travelers make the trip from Paris to see Chateau de Versailles. Enjoy all of the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes and cascading crystal chandeliers. Surprisingly, King Louis XIV’s extravagant former residence has pretty humbled beginning. His father, King Louis XIII favored the site for its hunting potential. The original brick and stone lodge was quite modest.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your next luxury vacation. It’s a big world out there, with so much to see and do.

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Opened in the summer 2013, the impressive MuCEM museum is holding an awesome, art exhibition about Pablo Picasso. It will display 270 of Picasso’s works. The MuCEM stands for the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. This national museum in Marseille, France first opened in the summer of 2013.

Between April 27 and August 29, 2016 the MuCEM museum exhibition is broken into four different sections. Each of these will mirror the masterpieces of Picasso. The famous artist’s works will be accompanied by various reference-objects from the museum.

This exhibition was a massive undertaking and included contributions and partnerships with many organization and partnership, such as with the Musée National Picasso-Paris. In addition to viewing some of his most famous pieces, there will be other surprises and insights into his life.

Pablo Picasso was born on October 25, 1881 in Spain. He passed away in Mougins, France on April 8, 1973. He was 91 years old. The Spanish artist had many talents. He was a painter, sculpture and ceramist. In addition, many people aren’t aware he was also a playwright and poet. His legendary works will be admired for years to come.

When Albert Camus won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957, we stated in his acceptance speech, “Art obliges the artist not to keep himself apart; it subjects him to the most humble and the most universal truth. That is why true artists scorn nothing.” What a moving and profound quote.

Picasso was influenced by numerous artists over this career. This MuCEM exhibition takes attendees on a magical journey through his art. You’ll discover his interests that turned into his work, such as “Jacqueline with Mantilla” with music, “Blue Acrobat” with the circus and “Bull’s Head” and bullfighting. He was inspired by Marie Cuttoli for textiles, Suzanne and Georges Ramié for ceramics and Paco Durrio for woodworking.

As a true, iconic artist of the 20th century, Pablo Picasso changed culture. His modern works during that era, drew millions of people into the world of fine art.

Robert Hughes was the art critic for TIME magazine. He was quoted, “To say that Pablo Picasso dominated Western art in the 20th century is, by now, the merest commonplace. Before his 50th birthday, the little Spaniard from Malaga had become the very prototype of the modern artist as public figure. No painter before him had had a mass audience in his own lifetime.”

For art lovers and those curious about the fascinating works of Pablo Picasso, be sure to visit the MuCEM museum in Marseille, France. It will be a VIP experience you will always remember.

We can help you plan your trip to Europe and see the Pablo Picasso art exhibition at the MuCEM museum in Marseille, France. Return again to read more art stories in our luxury blog.

The world famous Palace at Versailles in France has housed both kings and queens from 1682 until 1790, during the time of the French Revolution. Now the French city, just outside of Paris will be the location of a new Versailles luxury hotel, although it will likely be years away from actually opening.

First reported by the French newspaper Journal du Dimanche, the Chateau de Versailles announced it had begun plans to open a Versailles luxury hotel. The site will be located on the palace ground’s south-eastern corner.

The first phase of the process is to renovate three buildings on the Versailles palace site that are quite run down. Those three buildings built in the 1680’s are named – Petit Contrôle, Pavilion of the First 100 Steps and the Grand Contrôle. Once completed, the new Versailles luxury hotel will be built within the three buildings from the 17th century.

The luxury hotel will actually be located outside the gates of the famous Versailles palace, but offering spectacular views of Versailles and the surrounding area.

It’s estimated that the initial building renovation will cost between 4 and 7 million Euros or approximately $4.484 to $7.847 million dollars. The luxury hotel will definitely increase tourism revenue

The project will go out for bid and the winner will not only get the large undertaking to build the new Versailles luxury hotel, but will also have the right to operate the hotel for a time period of 60 years.

If you get the chance to ever visit France, be sure to see the impressive Versailles palace. During the French Revolution, the palace of Versailles had all of its furnishings removed. The Tuileries in Paris then became the new royal residence of France.

Louis XVI was the last king you lived in Versailles but fleed during the French Revolution. Condemned to death for treason, Louis XVI then executed on January 21, 1793, ending a mighty reign.

The Château de Versailles was also a big part of world history. It was the location World War I officially ended. The Treaty of Versailles was signed there on June 28, 1919.

Once built, it will be an honor to stay at the Versailles luxury hotel near Paris, France. World famous and years of rich history, you’ll be able to stay on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. The Life of Luxury can help you book your luxury travel reservation to France. Stay in VIP style and enjoy luxury amenities. Come back soon and read our luxury blog.

Photo: Château de Versailles – © EPV / Ch. Milet

A visit to the incredible French Riviera is an unforgettable experience. We wanted to share the luxury Cap d’Antibes villa as one of the most luxurious villas you will find to stay in.

The French Riviera awaits and live in VIP style at the Cap d’Antibes Villa in France. This luxury property lied between Cannes and Nice and has 10 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 20 people. The villa has a vast living area of 760 m².

This 16th century, Provencal villa is represented by Carlton International and was recently renovated. It features huge entertainment areas so it’s perfect for those fabulous, French Riviera parties and social gatherings. The villa is perfectly located between the old town of Antibes and a short 100 meters from the scenic beach.

Outdoors, enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens that covers about 3,500 square meters. There’s a gray color mosaic swimming pool (13m X 6m) that has a surrounding security fence.

Indoors, enjoy all the comforts of modern living at Cap d’Antibes. The main level of the villa has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The deluxe “Galilée” bedroom is air conditioned bedroom and has a double bed. There’s an en-suite shower room with shower, toilet and bidet). The room has both a pool and garden view. The deluxe “Josephine” bedroom is also air conditioned bedroom and has a double bed. This en-suite bathroom comes with a balneo bathtub, shower, WC and bidet). The bedroom has a garden view.

The fabulous Presidential Suite is an independent apartment with two levels. You have independent access separate from the main villa. The suite features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and also offers guests its own kitchen and dining room.

If you dreamed of vacationing in France and seeing the beautiful French Riviera, consider a stay at the luxury Cap d’Antibes Villa in France. We can help plan and book your luxury travel getaway. If you enjoy reading about top travel destinations around the world, keep abreast of the latest travel news with our luxury blog.

Photo: Carlton International

The luxury Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has partnered with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. The restaurateur and respected chef will head up the property’s Le Pressoir d’Argent restaurant.

Prior to closing, Le Pressoir d’Argent was a popular, Michelin-starred restaurant that was run by chef Pascal Nibaudeau. The restaurant was famous for using a lobster press that was one of only five anywhere in the world.

Chef Gordon Ramsay also overseas the Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace in Versailles, which has been awarded two Michelin stars. Born in Scotland but raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, England – Gordon Ramsay has trained with many of the world’s top chefs. Several include: both Marco Pierre White and Albert Roux in London, plus Joël Robuchon and Guy Savoy in France.

Accolades are not foreign to Gordon Ramsay. In London, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay is the city’s longest-running restaurant to received the coveted three Michelin stars. Ramsay is just one of only four chefs to hold three Michelin stars in the UK.

Gordon Ramsay was quoted, “I’m thrilled we are opening our second restaurant in France, following on from the two Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay au Trianon in Versailles. To open a restaurant in the wine capital of France with its world-class vineyards and glorious regional produce is extremely exciting. Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has an incredible history dating back to 18th century and we are really looking forward to working with the hotel team at this incredible listed property in the heart of the City’s golden triangle.”

Photo: Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa

Chef Ramsay plans to develop seasonal dishes to be served at Le Pressoir d’Argent restaurant, utilizing the best, local ingredients. He is known for his delicious dishes that use spices and BBQ-style smoky flavors. We can’t wait to see what gastronomic creations he comes up with. It should be a fine dining experience like no other.

The incredible Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is located in central Bordeaux, in the south-west area of France. For those who desire pampering and a truly relaxing experience, be sure to try Les Bains de Léa spa. You can choose from various spa treatments using leading, French beauty brand NUXE.

Michel Ohayon is the owner of Grand Hotel de Bordeaux, and commented on the Gordon Ramsey announcement, “Le Pressoir d’Argent at Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has forever been a timeless centerpiece in the Bordeaux community for fine dining. To me it felt most natural for Gordon Ramsay to take part in this project, which we have finalized in order to announce today. We are honored to be one of the two restaurants in France to work with this internationally acclaimed chef, a real sign of the confidence that he grants us.”

Interested in a luxury travel package to France? Contact The Life of Luxury and we can help book all your travel reservations. Consider staying at the elegant Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa. Dine at Le Pressoir d’Argent restaurant and you may actually see renowned chef Gordon Ramsay in person! Follow this luxury blog for interesting luxury travel news.

Photo: Gordon Ramsay Group

St. Tropez is a a Provençal town located in southeastern France. This coastal town comes alive in summer with an endless number of activities that are enjoyed by wealthy tourists and celebrities

You can find supercars racing into the center of St. Tropez and lavish parties with terrific food and fine champagne.

To fully enjoy St. Tropez and stay at a luxury, consider Villa Cap Bastide. To vacation at Villa Cap Bastide provides the unique mix of luxury amenities and a serene family setting. The luxury Villa Cap Bastide is close to the bustling town center in addition to the areas finest beaches, including Tahiti beach which is one of St. Tropez’ most famous private beaches.

As a family property, Villa Cap Bastide offers guests almost 3,000 square meters well landscaped gardens, plus a large but shallow, private swimming pool.

Security and safety is always a concern for traveling families. This luxury villa provides a secure grounds perimeter. This allows children to enjoy the large playground and parents some peace of mind.

Adults can socialize and enjoy the private bar or relax and sit outdoors one of the property’s terraces. Head into St. Tropez for an incredible fine dining experience the party all night long at one of the city’s lively bars.

Live like the rich and famous and enjoy St. Tropez holiday with a stay at the all-inclusive family paradise – Villa Cap Bastide.

To learn more or book a reservation at Villa Cap Bastide, contact The Life of Luxury. We can assist plan your entire St. Tropez vacation. Return soon to read about other premier vacation hot spots in our luxury blog.

Hotel de Rougemont is a family-style hotel that can be found in the heart of the alpine village of Rougement in Switzerland. Hotel de Rougemont is scheduled to open this December, 2014.

As the most dramatic new hotel opening in the Swiss Alps this winter season, the gorgeous Hotel de Rougemont is a stylish four-star luxury hotel.

Although the chalet-style exterior of the new Swiss Alps hotel blends in with the traditional village chalets that date back four centuries, the interior of the new hotel is a fresh, hip, modern take on alpine décor.

The interior design consists of pale wood paneling, local stone, marble plus inventive lighting. Hotel de Rougemont will offer guests a total of 33 rooms and suites that are bright with a minimalist look, yet with a touch of mid-century modern.

For relaxation, Hotel de Rougemont will feature a spa and indoor lap pool. Guest will enjoy a wine bar, large lounge with tapas service, cigar lounge, in addition to a fine dining restaurant.

The boutique hotel and spa can be found only minutes from ski lifts leading to 150 miles of Alpine slopes and endless hours of terrific skiing or snowboarding.

The village Rougement in Switzerland is renowned for its undeniable tranquility plus gentle pace of life.

If you are interested in traveling to Switzerland and would like to stay at the new Hotel de Rougemont, please contact us. One of our experienced luxury travel agents can assist planning and booking your travel itinerary. Read about other new hotels and the latest travel industry news by following this popular luxury blog.

Ideally located in the center of the world’s largest area of fine wine vineyards, the luxurious Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa welcomes both amateurs and wine lovers to uncover the great wine estates of Bordeaux, France.

Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is found in the center of the city of Bordeaux, in La Place de La Comédie square that overlooks the historic Le Grand Théâtre.

Bordeaux is in France’s South-West region and known worldwide for its fantastic grape vineyards and fine wine. The annual grape harvest season is the ideal time to experience one of the most crucial steps in the process of wine making.

The Wine Concierge Service at Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa has impressive knowledge and strong connections with the various châteaux of the region. This insider knowledge of the local, Bordeaux wine industry can make your trip a memorable one. Hotel guests are provided a rare opportunity to access the world of fine wine, that is unsurpassed in the luxury sector.

The luxury Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa can create bespoke itineraries for its guests who are interested in discovering the secrets of great wines and exploring the wine making process. This allows you to experience the behind-the-scenes of the annual grape harvest and actually includes the hand picking of the grapes.

If you are looking for a fantastic wine tasting experience, then consider visiting Margaux, St-Julien, St-Estèphe, Pauillac, St-Emilion, Pessac-Léognan, and Sauternes. The hotel’s Wine Concierge Service can take care of all the logistics for intimate and private tastings in the various estates and appellations.

Based on this fine wine heritage, the luxury Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux has created a new ‘Wine Package’ available until the end of the year, which includes the following:
• Two nights accommodation for two including daily breakfast at ‘The Bordeaux’, the hotel’s 19th century Belle-Epoque brasserie
• Half day wine tour – Guests will be able to discover and taste wine from renowned estates Saint Emilion or Médoc, where they will learn the art of wine making and wine blending, as well as the secret for aging wine.
• Transfer to and from the estates in a private car
• Free access to the Spa and Fitness Centre
• Free access to broadband Internet and Free Wifi
Pricing for this amazing, French harvest package is €1,252 and excludes the city tax (€1.45 per person per day).

For a wonderful fine dining experience, the hotel offers a gastronomic joy in their Michelin-starred ‘Le Pressoir d’Argent’ restaurant, which is headed by Pascal Nibaudeau;

The Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa is committed to providing its guests with unparalleled experiences. It’s ideal location plus high level of expertise in the world of fine wine will make your visit magical.

For additional information or to make a travel reservation to visit Bordeaux, France and and stay at the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, please contact The Life of Luxury. One of our travel concierge specialists will handle all your arrangements.

French Country Waterways offers luxury barge cruising aboard one of the company’s four luxury barges. This American-owned and operated premier provider offers upscale amenities on all their French cruises.

Your six-night sailing adventure, April through October, includes private tours and wine tastings, French cuisine dining featuring fine wines and French cheeses, private motor coaches and escorted transfers.

Put your feet up on the sundeck, walk or bicycle along canal towpaths, or just relax in your suite designed with private baths and king, queen or twin beds. Sure to make your cruise memorable is the stellar assistance of the crew …. fluent in both English and French, they will provide attentive and knowledgeable service all contributing to making this an unforgettable experience.

The eight-passenger Horizon II journeys through the Upper Loire Valley, known for its network of canals linking Paris to the château country, where many castles and stately manor houses fill the landscape.

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your French Country Waterways travel request. We will promptly get back to you.

The eight-passenger Princess, spends April through June in Champagne – where guests explore the Gothic Cathedral of Reims and the cellars Moët & Chandon.

The 12-passenger Adrienne, luxuriously outfitted with six king suites, serenely follows the narrow 18th-century Canal du Centre and tree-lined Canal de Bourgogne as it makes its way through the beauty of Burgundy’s scenic Côte d’Or wine-growing region.

The 12-passenger Nenuphar explores picturesque Central Burgundy on the Canal de Bourgogne route between Tanlay and Venarey-les-Laumes.

2013 barge cruise fares from French Country range from $5,095 to $6,695 per person, double occupancy.

For detailed cruise information or for information on individual bookings and for charter groups of up to 12 guests, please visit www.fcwl.com or call (800) 222-1236 in the U.S. and Canada and (781) 934-2454 in MA.

Rhine River

Scenic Cruises is part of Scenic Tours, which provides its clients award-winning, all-inclusive escorted tours in Europe, New Zealand, Australia, and other popular destinations.

An exciting new cruise has been added to the Scenic Cruises “France River Cruising” program for 2013 – an incredible 14-night cruise from Amsterdam to Nice. This sailing combines the popular seven-night Amsterdam-to-Basel cruise followed by a new seven-night Chalon-sur-Saône-to-Arles cruise.

This is an amazing opportunity to discover the treasures of France, in addition to Germany. Cruise highlights includes – dinner in the home of a local French family near Tournon, learning about their everyday life and foods; a visit with local vintner and wine tasting in the Beaujolais village of Oignt; taking electric-assist bicycles out for a spin on the well-developed paths along the Rhine River near Koblenz; and visiting the Hockenheim Formula 1 track, including entry to the museum and an insider tour of the circuit.

The European cruise itinerary begins with one night in the canal city of Amsterdam prior to setting sail along the scenic Rhine River, which is about 600-kilometer in length. Cruise passengers end the Rhine portion in the beautiful Swiss city of Basel. Also enjoy the local charm and beauty of historic Cologne; the 2,000-year-old city of Koblenz; romantic Rüdesheim, the “city of the squares’; Mannheim; and Breisach, the German town with the Celtic name that translates into “breakwater.”

Numerous shore excursions include Cologne’s historic section; Germany’s most beautiful medieval castle, Burg Eltz; and Siegfrieds Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rudesheim, including guided tours of many of the museum’s treasured rooms.

Cruise prices for trip departures in either March, April and September range from $6,290 to $10,140 per person, double including free flights to Europe for guests booking standard staterooms (D&E category) if booked by Sept. 30, 2012.

Scenic Tours also offers three extended versions with you wan to take more time to enjoy Europe: a 20-night version, adding three nights in Paris and three in Monaco’s glamorous Monte Carlo – which includes visits to Cannes and Nice (starting at $9,930); 18 nights, from Paris to Nice (fare starting at $8,285); and 18 nights, from Amsterdam to Monte Carlo (priced from $7,935).

Please contact us to learn more or book your cruise:

Cannes Palm Beach luxury apartments

Located in the stunning Cannes Palm Beach area – one of most prestigious destinations on the French Riviera, a new apartment development brings luxury living to center of Cannes.

Located just 2 minutes from the famous Croisette in Cannes center and close to the beach, the new development offers 18 luxurious apartments.

These exclusive private residences range from studios to 4-bedroom apartments and penthouses, all offering boasting private spacious balconies or terraces.

Cannes is king of the French Riviera and famous for its celebrities, grand hotels, luxury shops and, of course, the Cannes Film Festival. You can find fun in Cannes all year round, as the city offers a variety of congresses and festivals.

The stylish modern architecture apartment building has 5 stories and features amazing views of the scenic Mediterranean Sea.

Property highlights:

• Only 18 luxury apartments, many boasting sea views
• Exclusive location
• Parking space
• New build
• Swimming Pool
• Provisional completion date Q2 2014
• Low Notary Fees (3.5%)
• Up to 85% mortgage (T&C apply)

Second only to to Paris, Cannes on the French Riviera receives the most number of foreign visitors in France.

Price for these luxury apartments are 510,000 EUR or $630,757 USD