You actually expect me to write about the highlights and best things to see and do in Paris in 200 words or less? Better make it quick then…Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Musee d’Orsay, Musee du Louvre, Musee Picasso, Jardin de Luxembourg, Montmartre, Musee National d’Art Moderne, Notre Dame, rue Cler market, Place des Vosges, Place de la Concorde, the cafes, the food and wine…and uh, you get the picture?? High on many travelers dream lists as a destination, one of the most popular cities in the world can also be enjoyed surprisingly economically, with a little planning and background knowledge.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
When To Go: March to May and October/November are best. Paris can be cold and dark in winter; hot and crowded in Summer, Spring and Autumn provide colour, festivals and vitality away from the tourist hordes.

Accommodation: If you’re staying a while then rent a small apartment. You will be self sufficient, mix it with the locals, and often be able to find a decent studio for around Euro 500 a week. For shorter stays there are excellent budget hotels in wonderful locations where you will get ensuite doubles for under Euro 70 a night.

Language: French is spoken widely around the world and Parisians know it. You will fare much better if you know a little. A few simple phrases will do so you can introduce yourself, get service and ask directions. As anywhere, it shows respect, is a good icebreaker and enriches your experience. And as for those rumours about rude and arrogant Parisians? Well, i found quite the opposity…plenty of rude tourists.

Sightseeing: If you’re planning to sightsee, buy a Museum Pass, it is the best money you will spend. No expiry date and no queuing…you passport to cultural gluttony!

Best Way To Get Around:
Some visitors find it difficult to negotiate the Paris public transport maze. The options are many, so these tips are designed to cut through the fog of confusion and provide the simplest, most cost-effective path around Paris.

Three forms of transport will serve you best; trains, buses and boats.

Trains and Buses: Trains and buses are covered by the Paris Visite travel card. I used a three-zone card to travel anywhere on the Metro, regional trains, bus, tram and funiculaire, except Versailles, the airport and Disneyland. No queuing, no funmbling for charge, no hassle, and they are for good for 1 to 5 days. You can buy them at most stations and a 5-day pass represents the best value at Euro 27. The next best option is carnets of 10 tickets of Euro 10…good for more flexibility over broken or extended periods. Regular buses and trains link both airports for around Euro 8 to 10.

Boats: Boats are a beautiful way to combine the romance of the Seine and sightseeing. Visiting eight major destinations, a Batobus two-day pass is great value at Euro 13 (Euro 11 for one day). Buy one from any tourist office or boat stop.