May 4, 2009

Driving in France?

Driving in France is really no different that driving anywhere else (OK, excluding the UK, Australia and other drive-on-the-left locations). Here are several points which might make your experiences on the highway a bit easier: 1. Purchase a map in book form (1:200,000 scale). GPS has become a popular rental option but European maps might [...]

May 4, 2009

Your mobile phone in France

There are many options for those wanting to remain in contact by phone:  roaming with a North American provider, VoIP, Télécartes, or using a French mobile network just like the French do.  Here is a rundown of providers offering pre paid cellphone plans: Just a quick review of the requirements.

May 4, 2009

Sarastro’s 13 lucky rules for dining

How is dining in Paris different than in other locations?  Here is a short guide which will help you feel right at home dinning among the Parisians. 1.  Always reserve.  Always.  Reserving is a simple courtesy that a restaurant operator appreciates.  Allowing for menu planning and appropriate staff sizing, it also assists management’s efforts to [...]

May 4, 2009

Tips for the traveler, CDG to DLP

Many people plan a visit to Disneyland Paris, arriving at Charles de Gaule airport with many transportation questions. The following is a summary of transportation options

May 4, 2009

Recommended hotel networks

One of the first steps when vacation planning is to find appropriate  accommodations.    I should like to share my list of favored hotel networks offering charming accommodations throughout France, most are moderately priced and most have restaurants serving local produce and regional specialties. Moulin Etape