Must Visit Places in Paris

Take a tour of France's tallest and most visited monument, the Eiffel, offer prayers at the stunning Grande Mosquee de Paris, visit the artistic structures of Montmartre and the Sacre-Cœur or just walk on cobblestone paths of Pere Lachaise Cemetery—the city of Paris is laden with enchanting sights to see. The regal extravagance of Chateau de Versailles and the gothic beauty of Cathedrale Notre Dame de Paris add to the city's myriad offerings and attract hordes of crowds too. Here are some of the best attractions in Paris peppered along its length and breadth that you just can't afford to miss.

1. Tour Eiffel

For the most majestic view, go to the Place du Trocadéro to watch the sun set behind the Tower.

You can’t avoid the country’s most famous landmark looming above the Paris skyline, and it's hard to resist scaling its heights. Gustave Eiffel constructed this feat of engineering for the 1889 World Fair in honour of the 100-year anniversary of the French Revolution.

It’s 324 metres high, but don’t worry, there are plenty of lifts, though expect long queues in high season. If you’re fighting fit, brave the 1,665 steps instead, and reward yourself with a glass of bubbly from the champagne bar perched at the very top, from where your line of vision stretches for over 64km on a clear day. If heights aren’t your thing, there are panoramic views from the second floor.

From 11pm every night, the tower sparkles for five minutes every hour with the help of 20,000 bulbs, and on the national day of France and New Year’s Eve, fireworks launched from the tower light up the night sky



2. Père Lachaise Cemetery

The winged messenger statue atop Oscar Wilde’s tomb was robbed of its prominent penis almost immediately, and legend has it, has been since used as a paperweight.

Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Colette, Balzac, Chopin and Modigliani are just some of the names on the roll call of graves in this beautiful Gothic cemetery. The 109 acres are overflowing with 19th century sculpture, gravestones and tombs of every shape and size.

Many Doors fans make the pilgrimage to Jim Morrison’s resting place, and while it was once covered in lovelorn graffiti it has now been sanitised and is kept under guard, like many other famous names.

Get a map at the entrance on rue des Rondeaux to navigate your way around, and leave at least two hours. Finish off with a drink in one of the pretty bistros of nearby Belleville.


3. Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur
For those disinclined to walk, Montmartrobus is specially designed for the winding one-way streets here, and takes in the place Pigalle, rue des Abbesses, finishing at the Montmartre town hall.

At the heart of this legendary artistic enclave is the Butte Montmartre, crowned by the white domes of Sacré Cœur. This grand Roman-Byzantine church is packed with stunning mosaics, statues, relief sculptures and stained glass. At 130 metres this is the highest point in Paris, with hoards of tourists making the pilgrimage up the steps from square Wilette, or via the funicular, to admire the views over Paris.

While Montmartre was once a hub of creativity, home to Degas, Picasso and Renoir, now it is overrun with souvenir touts, overpriced eateries and so-called portrait artists battling for your custom, especially around the place du Tertre. If you want to see Sacré Cœur take the prettier route starting at the place des Abbesses, which avoids the worst congestion, and when you return you can amble by the quirky shops and boutique cafes.


4. Grande Mosquée de Paris
Sit in the shade of a fig tree with tea and baklava at the quaint Cafe de la Mosquée de Paris.

This beautiful pink marble building, inaugurated in 1926, was built in gratitude to the Muslim tirailleurs, or soldiers, of the North African countries who fought for France during World War I. The impressive thank-you present has become an urban oasis in the Latin Quarter with its stunning minarets, interlaced mosaics and lovely Moorish gardens.

You can either take a guided tour or just feel free to wander around on your own. If you need to de-stress you can arrange an inexpensive, if basic, hammam.


5. Château de Versailles

Once home to the ostentatious Marie-Antoinette, this is where she supposedly uttered the infamous phrase, ‘Let them eat cake!’

The renowned Château de Versailles, 20km south-west of Paris, is a monument to regal extravagance, and the last seat of the royal family before the French Revolution in 1789. First built by King Louis XIV, and later becoming the royal residence, it housed 6,000 courtiers, who apparently lived here in squalor, while the interior was the most sumptuously decorated palace in the world.

Don’t miss the King and Queen’s State Apartments oozing with chandeliers, gilt, marble, frescoes and ostentation of the highest order, as well as the jaw-dropping Hall of Mirrors, a 75-metre-long ballroom with giant mirrors. Prepare to be dazzled.

Hills were flattened, marshes drained and forests moved to create the gardens, so vast they offer electric cars for visitors to get around. From April to October, the fountains shoot water to the rhythm of music.


6. Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris
Beware of pickpockets, who sometimes swoop on visitors looking up at the facade or stained glass windows.

This mighty Gothic structure looming above the Ile de la Cite is a beautiful reminder of just how ancient Paris really is.

No small feat of construction, its first stone was laid back in 1163, taking almost 200 more years to build. It remains one of France’s most beautiful examples of Gothic art, with its twin towers, rows of saints and sculpted recesses.

Wandering through the stained glass interior is free (as are guided tours), but it's also worth paying extra to climb the tower ( though there are 387 steps and no lift). The route takes you up the north tower, along narrow passageways, into the world of fictional bell ringer Quasimodo. Spot the sinister chimeras and gargoyles (actually added during a 19th century restoration, but still amazing) as you ascend the south tower and don’t miss Emmanuel, the largest of four bells, weighing 13 tons.


7. Catacombes de Paris

During the Second World War members of the French Resistance used the tunnel system to get around undetected.

This is not for the faint-hearted. Walking around these labyrinthine underground tunnels surrounded by the bones of six million people is bound to send a chill down your spine.

This macabre site was created in the 18th century after the inner-city cemeteries overflowed and became a health hazard. The cemeteries were closed and the remains transferred to what had been a 3,000km network of quarries underneath Paris. The skulls and femurs were stacked in decorative patterns, using tombstones and statues from the cemeteries to create this Gothic mausoleum.

It is damp, cramped, spooky, yet fascinating. The tour lasts 45 minutes, and culminates at the room heralded by a sign reading, ‘Stop! This is the empire of death!’.





Crossworld Holidays gives the best Europe Group Tour Pacakges from Mumbai 

  
Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)
 
Ground Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

Gujarat best place for the nature lover

Gujarat caters to a diverse set of interests. For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, it offers some of the most fascinating and intriguing sights. From the natural habitat of the lion, to the marshy marine life submerged below the Arabian sea - we tell you the five places that will lure you in, charm you and keep you coming back for more. Explore these sanctuaries with their unique geological landscapes and immerse yourself in all they have to offer.

1. Marine National Park
India's first Marine Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine National Park were created in 1980 and 1982 respectively, in the the Gulf of Kutch. This isolated park stretches 170 kilometres along the coast and encompasses 42 islands, of which 33 are ringed by coral reefs. Abundant in marine and bird life, the sanctuary lies in the inter-tidal zone, and the area that is submerged in water during high tide can be observed during low tide. Some of the islands like Pirotan, Narala, Ajad and Positara, are fringed by the finest coral reefs and feature up to 52 coral species. Made up of millions of colourful polyps bound together by algae and other plants, the coral can be observed in a variety of formations, and makes for a fascinating sight. There are 7 species of mangroves here, which maintain the balance between salt and fresh water systems, protect the coast from erosion, and are breeding grounds for colonies of near-threatened species of birds such as the painted stork, darter and black-necked ibis. There are about 80 recorded species of birds found here, and low tide is a great time to observe them feeding on the beached marine life.



2. Saputara Hill Station

Located atop a thickly forested plateau in the Sahyadri range, Saputara is the only hill station in the Dang district in the south of Gujarat. This small and peaceful town of lies at an altitude of about 1000 metres, and features a consistently pleasant climate all through the year, making it a favourite for tourists. Having been developed as a planned hill resort replete with all the essentials like accommodation, parks, theatres, a club and a museum, there’s lots to do here aside from taking in the beautiful scenery and panoramic views. In addition, there are some stunning waterfalls, and you can catch the most stunning sunrise and sunset here. The Saputara Lake is another major tourist attraction, set amidst the backdrop of lush greenery and paddle boats for visitors. The Pushpak Ropeway is considered the longest ropeway in the country and there’s some beautiful gardens to stroll through as well.



3. Indroda Nature Park

Located in Gandhinagar in the southeast of Gujarat, the Indroda Nature Park is a testament to ecological planning and insight, and a great example of the collaboration between nature and man. Back in 1970, the Forest Department of Gandhinagar initiated plantation in the area, which has today grown to become one of the most stunning man-made forests. Inhabited by a plethora of wildlife and plant life, the uneven sloping terrain has a low river running through and is a beautifully scenic spot to revel in. The Indroda Dinosaur and Fossil Park on the premises, is a treasure trove occupying an area of about 400 hectares on either bank of Sabarmati river. The second largest hatchery of dinosaur eggs in the world, it is popularly referred to as India's Jurrasic Park. Featuring rare skeletal remains of dinosaurs like the Brontosaurus, Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Iguanodon, T-Rax, Rhamphornicus, Dienonycus, Ceradectylus, Rajasaurus narmadensis, Allosaurus etc displayed in accordance with the period of their occurrence, this is one trip the kids will never forget.


4. Little Rann of Kutch
Currently under consideration as a biosphere reserve, this salt wetland is abundant in biodiversity, and shrimp farming is one of the chief means of a livelihood in the area. With a host of wildlife sanctuaries, and rich presence of rare animals, this is one of Gujarat’s major tourist draws. Occupying about 4,953 square kilometres spread across the districts of Surendranagar, Banasakantha, Patan, Kutch and Rajkot, the topography of the Little Rann of Kutch features large marshlands interspersed with patches of soil supporting shrubbery. While you’re there, be sure to pay a visit to the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary, which is one of the largest wildlife reserves in the country, and keep aside a morning to go bird spotting at Banjana Creek.



5. Gir National Park

No trip to Gujarat is complete without a visit to the Gir national Park. Sprawling across a vast expanse of 1412 square kilometres of dense forest, it is the natural abode of the lion – the only place outside of Africa where you get to experience the wild cats in their natural habitat. Take in the experience in its entirety by exploring everything, from the 250 species of chirping birds darting out of the thick canopy of trees overhead, to the crocs in the marsh waters. Spot the leopard, nilgai, hyenas, chinkara and antelopes, including the world’s only four-horned antelopes known as chousingha. Additionally, the Gir is the homeland of a tribe called the Maldharis, that thrives on pasturing and livestock. Spend a few days to really take it all in. We suggest a visit to the Crocodile Breeding Farm, and both the morning and evening safaris – the forest tells a different story after sundown.




Crossworld Holidays gives the best Domestic Tour Pacakges from Mumbai


 Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)
 
Ground Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

How Travelling Solo is Beneficial ?

When it comes to solo adventure excursions, everyone has different attitudes and opinions. For some it’s the dream of a lifetime, ultimate liberation and freedom of self. For others it’s a more daunting idea. No doubt it’s appealing, but in reality actually quite terrifying. There are so many incredible benefits to solo travel: you can go wherever you want, whenever you want. You develop an incredible sense of confidence. You can change your plans on a whim. It’s easier to interact with locals and learn the local language. You can take the trip of your dreams and be whoever you want to be without the worthless hassle. In case you are having second thoughts, it’s time you said goodbye to your anxiety.

Here are some reasons why solo travel is insanely awesome!

1. Ultimate Freedom

One of the best things about travelling solo is that you get to do what you want to do, when you want to do it. Don’t want to go to an art gallery today? Visit the market instead! Want to stay out all night or catch a few extra hours of sleep? There isn’t anyone to tell you what to do. You get to call the shots and spend your time doing what YOU want to do.



2.Speedy Sightseeing

One can fly through sightseeing as one doesn’t need to compromise and wait for someone to get ready in the morning. You don’t need to wait a second longer at a place that you want to. This includes skipping the popular sights if they don’t happen to appeal to you. Travel alone and you’ll be given the gift of time; which means you’ll be able to fit more destinations and activities into a trip without feeling like you’re making a sacrifice.

3. Eating Healthy

The vast majority of travelers don’t make an effort to eat healthy while on the road. Many people see travel as an opportunity to indulge; foodies often prioritize the pleasure of food over health benefits. Usually those who have long-established health and fitness habits eat consistently on the road. If you’re determined to eat healthy, it’s so much easier to make decisions and stick to them when you’re traveling on your own. Whether you go for sparkling water instead of cappuccinos, go vegan for a week, or eat a big salad for a meal every day, it’s a million times easier to do so when you don’t have friends distracting you with their indulgences.

4. Special VIP Treatment

What happens if you’re the only one to sign up for a group tour or activity? You might inadvertently end up on a private tour despite paying a group tour price. That means that if it’s a surfing or rock-climbing lesson, you’ll have 100% of the instructor’s attention — you’ll learn so much faster. On a history- or art-oriented tour, you’ll be able to have an in-depth conversation with your guide instead of getting a group lecture. And if it’s a one-person-at-a-time activity like zip-lining, you’ll be able to hop from line to line without for everyone else to go!

5. Trying New Things

You might end up going on that white-water rafting day trip or paragliding – those once in a lifetime experiences that you never would have done if you’d been in the comfort of your own region and friends – You Only Live Once.

6. Zero Drama

You’re not with your usual friends so wave goodbye to the regular drama – no crying on night’s out or dependant friends that need taking home. You’re there for you and you alone, so the only drama you’re going to experience is if you make it!

7. Become an Avid Reader

If you don’t read as much as you used to but wish you could pick up the habit again, solo travel is the perfect opportunity! When you travel with a companion, you’ll always be talking. When you’re on your own, you’ll have a lot of time to fill. And while you could spend it engrossed in your phone, scrolling through photos on Facebook, you could just as easily spend it reading a book.

8. Wave Goodbye to Loneliness

In fact, when travelling solo, you will never feel lonely. Once you get to any hostel or hotel and you will see plenty of solo travelers who are in the same boat. You all travel for the same reasons, you all miss home at some point and you all want to experience new things. It is incredible to see how much you have in common with people who you have not met before. You get to know each other; you make friends and keep in touch. We meet once again after some time in a different place and you all laugh at all of these awkward and unforgettable moments you shared together.



9. Save Those Bucks

In most cases, you can find travelling solo cheaper than travelling with someone. Nobody teases you with local delicacies so it is easier to resist the temptation and spend less money on food. You are also more likely to buy less souvenirs and useless gadgets. More importantly, your travel companion might prefer more convenient and expensive way of travelling and it’s sometimes awkward to say “Sorry, it’s too expensive for me”.

10. Overcome Your Fears

What does not kill you, makes you stronger and that’s so true. When you are left on your own, you start fighting for what really matters to you. You overcome the fear of heights, darkness, spiders or even new food. The more you travel, the less you fear. As long as you make regular solo trips, you will feel more confident each time, no matter what your fear is which is also a good excuse to travel regularly.

11. Discover Yourself

Once you set off on a solo journey to unknown place, you start getting to know yourself much better. You are on your own. You start listening to your heart and you are finally able to achieve some level of internal equilibrium and focus of mind. You start to discover yourself once again – things you are capable of, things you are afraid or scared of. You face your fears and you defeat them. There is no stress around and you feel alive.



Crossworld Holidays gives the best Domestic and International Group Tour from Mumbai



Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)
 
Ground Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

Seven things to carry while you go on a trek

Yes! We need to take risk and dare to venture, in the ultimate search of our true potential. That is why adventure sports have always been a part of our nature and life. When we indulge in thrilling activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, river rafting, trekking and many other adrenaline rising adventure sports, we experience exhilaration, joy, fun and a sense of fulfillment.

Out of several adventure sports, trekking has become popular nowadays and there are special trekking expeditions arranged for experts as well as novices. The location chosen for the trek, team leader or guide, number of people in the group, things carried on a trek, ability of the leader and many other factors are vital when we embark on a trek.

When we look at the question of what to carry, the challenge lies in balancing between less weight (since you are going to physically carry) and in including all essential things. So, for all those enthusiasts who love to trek in tough terrains, here are few tips on what to carry while starting for a trek. This list has been prepared for a short trek of a single day only. For longer duration, there is an absolute necessity of increasing several items.


Water and Food

Water, the elixir of life is the most essential item, especially on a trek. Dehydration is the first reason why trekkers get exhausted. So carrying water is a must and it is better to keep the consumption less. Also, the ideal thing would be each member carrying an individual bottle of water.

While starting for a trek, eating a heavy breakfast is strongly suggested so that a light lunch is sufficient. Carrying high energy chocolate bars is good in case if the trek takes more time for any unexpected reason.

Clothing
Trekking expeditions are carried out in forests trails, hill-capped mountain trails or any other terrain. Hence, if the trek in summer season and in forest or mountain regions like Yelagiri or Kukkal, clothing made of cotton is comfortable. If the trek is in winter season or in a snow filled terrain like Manali, Leh, or Shimla, thick woollen attire would be appropriate. In both cases, it is better to have spare attire in case of rainfall or snowfall.

Compass and Cell phone

Thanks to the mobile phone technology, anyone in the world can be traced easily using GPS. Hence it is always best to carry mobile phones (completely charged) while going for a trek. A compass is still a valuable device even in the days of GPS since compass does not rely on electricity.

Torch lights and head lamps

Though we are talking about a single day trek of 5 to 6 hour duration, it is advisable to carry a powerful torch light (with spare batteries) and a head lamp. Usually the weather is unpredictable in trekking expeditions, so if it becomes dark and visibility diminishes, these devices come to rescue.

Insect repellent

This is one item which is always overlooked. In thick forests and near water bodies, insects are a major cause of concern. Insect bites can be a nuisance and sometimes even fatal. Carrying a good repellent will give a lot of relief from such difficulties.

First-aid kit

A simple first-aid kit could be carried by one member of the group with medicines for common injuries and illnesses. Scissors, cotton gauze, anti-septic cream, Sun blocks, cold creams, sun glasses and tissues must be included in the kit.

Other essentials

A good knife may come in handy and a strong medium sized rope is also important. Other essentials things like a match box, a blanket and a cap are often tools of rescue in untoward incidents. Sufficient cash is another thing to be taken care of and an ID card of any type is an absolute must.

The above list sums up usual things to be carried while going on a trek. Happy and adventurous trek, have great fun but at the same time take care of safety.



Crossworld Holidays gives the best Domestic and International Group Tour from Mumbai

 

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Ground Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com