Recent research has shown that Britain’s love affair with France appears to be blossoming again with bookings for coach holidays over the channel soaring by 31%! Many believe that we are playing it safe by holidaying in safe havens such as France because of the civil unrest, riots and political turmoil that have recently taken place in previous holiday favourites such as North Africa, Egypt and Tunisia – each noticing a significant drop in visitors. Brits are also turned off by the hike in air taxes for long haul flights preferring to choose holidays in countries that are much closer to home such as our neighbours in France with Italy proving popular too. At the end of the day, everyone is trying to reign in those pennies but still manage to afford a quick break away. With this in mind, we thought we’d take a look at some of the reasons why our love affair with France is blooming again…
Romance
Looking for a little romance in your life? You can’t go wrong with France tours as you’ll have one of the most romantic
cities in the world at your feet – Paris! Whisk a loved one on a river cruise along the Seine, follow the trail of the Da Vinci Code, enjoy a romantic meal in one of many street cafes, take a walk along the Champs-Elysees, treat your partner to something chic from a boutique or perhaps climb to the top of the Eifel Tower and ask that all important question – who knows, they may even say yes!
Shopping
Many say that Italy is the place to be for fashionistas, but France certainly gives the Italians a run for their money especially when the fashion houses of Yves St. Laurent, Chanel and Dior have their own boutiques in Paris, Courcheval and Saint Tropez. For fashion that is a little kinder to the purse-strings, check out local department stores and city shopping malls where you’ll find brands such as Alain Manoukian, Petit Bateau, Kookaï and more. From chic boutiques to designer labels and street stalls selling all manner of souvenirs – shopaholics will find holidays in France a dream!
Stunning scenery
From the thought-provoking beaches of Normandy to the lavender fields of Provence, you can’t deny that France
offers many a perfect photo opportunity with backgrounds to die for! Whilst in Paris, why not visit Monet’s Garden or take a trip to the stately gardens of Versailles, maybe even explore the gardens at the Château de Chantilly. Experience the cultural landscapes of the Loire Valley and discover what has inspired painters, writers and poets of both past and present. Venture further south and you’ll come across the delights of the French Riviera with vibrant cities surrounded by sloping vineyards and hills that bind the sea to the French Alps – all to be explored by foot, bicyclette or on horseback!
Spectacular sights
You cannot fault France for spectacular sights to see from the stunning Eifel Tower to the magnificent Louvre and Notre Dame, it’s a given that fans of architectural delights will not be disappointed here. Check out the Arc de Triomphe, admire modern & contemporary art collections at Le Centre Pompidou, explore Le Musée D’Orsay and no trip to France would be the same without a visit to the Paris Opera House that features in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical the Phantom Of The Opera.
Have you been tempted to consider France Tours for your next breakaway? Maybe you’ve already holidayed in France, what did you think? We’d love to hear from you!