I had the pleasure of knocking Paris off my bucket list about 12 (oh wow) years ago. It was so long ago; I think it’s time to put it back on the list. While the regions of France have so much to offer a traveler, on my next trip, I want to explore more of the communes of Paris, as well as the Parisian Coast.
Boulogne Billancourt, France
I love photographing my world. I take a picture randomly of a tree or a sunset and capture it on my phone to share on Instagram or Twitter. I believe Albert Khan (a French banker and philanthropist who lived in Paris in the early 1900s) would have loved social media. He created the Archives of the Planet, a photographic endeavor where he wished to document buildings and cultures. He would travel around with his chauffeur and photographer and document the world. He even commissioned and sent out photographers to every continent to record images and film of the planet.
Albert-Kahn Musee et Jardin houses these photos and films in Boulogne-Billancourt, France. During a winter month, I can’t think of a better way to fill the day than by looking at images of our world.
Image via Trover.com by Manuel Villanueva
Chessy, France
Chessy, France is in eastern Paris. The city isn’t much these days; oh, except for being the site of the Disneyland Paris Amusement Park. Even the cool temperatures in February shouldn’t stop you from visiting the happiest place on earth … in France.
The park offers many new experiences for the family during this time of year. It’s open for the Half Term in February, but the winter temperatures keep the crowds away. It is an ideal time to visit the Magic Kingdom to avoid the lines and the usual chaos of the amusement park. I’m ready to dress for the occasion, and after the first ride and a photo-op with Mickey, I’m sure I won’t notice the temperature.
Image via Trover.com by Snappy David
Courbevoie, France
Courbevoie, Frances is the densest populated region of France. It’s situated in the business district and houses tall buildings, great hotels, and is an amazing shopping district. Furthermore, it has my favorite place on earth, the Eiffel Tower. Chances are the top floor observation deck will be closed in February, and if open, it won’t be the best view. However, I’m going to visit anyway. You will avoid long lines during this time of year and the structure itself is impressive enough. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. You will warm right up. Plus the tower has four restaurants, so grab a seat and enjoy a meal in the most iconic landmark in the world.
Photo via Trover.com by Noe Correia
Avignon, France
Avignon, France is in southern France, but not quite next to the Mediterranean Sea. It is a city steeped in rich history, especially Catholic history. The commune housed the original residency of the Pope back in the 1300s. You could spend days exploring the Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace). It is the most impressive example of Gothic architecture in Europe. I can imagine spending a day by soaking up the rich — and at times — tumultuous history of Catholicism during this period.
Image via Trover.com by Marta Logan
Antibes, France
The art fan in me would love to visit Antibes, France, located further down south on the Mediterranean coast. It is a beautiful coastal town. Many artists and writers used Antibes as a retreat in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It houses a Picasso museum, which holds some of his beautiful, albeit confusing, works of landscapes from the time he called this French commune his home. It also houses the Absinthe museum. This infamous drink has a crazy history, and I would love to explore it and maybe have a taste.
Image via Trover.com by Michelle DuQuette
Have you been to any of these cities? What’s on your travel bucket list?
Sydney Aaliyah Michelle 