"FRANÇAIS" a Paris Travel Page by Saudi_phantom

The French wrote the book on la vie en rose and gave the world champagne and camembert, de Beauvoir and Debussy, the Tour de France and the Tour Eiffel. There's a term for their seductive lifestyle - Douce France (Sweet France) and you'll find yourself using it often.

Although the ubiquity of Levis and Le Big Mac flusters the country's cultural purists, anything from a year in Provence to a weekend in Paris will explain why half the world grows dreamy over stalking Cyrano's streets or picnicking Manet-style sur l'herbe.

This country has been synonymous with romance for longer than your grandmother cares to remember, so whether you visit Paris or the Pyrenees, the Côte d'Azur or an auberge de jeunesse, be sure to keep your fantasies in check, your expectations in line and your joie in your vivre.

Paris is the bon vivant of European cities and the most romantic capital in the world. Experience its magic with apéros at a pavement café, seductive strolls along the Seine, hours lost in labyrinthine art galleries and treasures found at weekend marches. However you dream of Paris, this smart and stylish guide will help you bring it to life.

Home of Champagne, croissants and cafés, France is the birthplace of cuisine as we know it. But French food goes beyond ratatouille and reputation. It has a beating heart that you'll discover in the crowds of Marseille markets, Bordeaux wine cellars and within this book. Whether you crave the creamiest goat's milk cheese or want to create your own crêpes, this guide shares the secret ingredients behind France's culinary culture.

an exploration of the regions and their specialities
an extensive guide to wines and wine regions
shopping the street markets of Paris
tasting truffles, terrines and foie gras
the definitive culinary dictionary, a quick reference glossary and useful phrases for every food & drink occasion
tantalising photography and recipes