October 3rd, 2009 will mark the 8th edition of this cultural exhibition, as some of Paris’ most interesting art, musical and theatre-performance groups put on special performances throughout the night. The three focal points for the event in 2009 will be the areas of Buttes-Chaumont, Chatelet-Marais and the Quartier Latin.

Events will include musical performances (from classical to hip-hop), art installations from sculpture to photography, projections, fighter planes, abstract art, watercolor, video installations, crystal sculpture, mixed media, musical and light installations, and much more.

In yet a further extension of this celebration, the cultural event also extends to ten neighboring cities and numerous cities throughout Europe and beyond. “Nuit Blanche” literally translates to “White Night,” but it has a secondary meaning in French for “All-Nighter.”

Although its origination is claimed by three different cities (Paris, St. Petersburg and Berlin), the indisputable fact is that, since 1997, the cultural celebration has spread to many cities, which have each given it a name in the local language. In Italy, it’s “La Notte Bianca,” in Spain “La Noche en Blanco,” “Lejl Imdawwal” in Maltese, among many others. (It’s also taken other forms, such as “White Linen Night” in New Orleans, an all-night art celebration that takes place during mid-summer.)

In addition to official events, there are countless (literally hundreds) of spots throughout the city with special things to see and do. Galleries, museums, even swimming pools: the list is endless and admission is generally free to the public.

Some tips on getting around

This is October in Paris, which can mean chilly weather and unexpected showers. Dress warmly, and bring that all-important rain poncho and umbrella. (We recommend bringing along a compact travel umbrella. If you’re going to be taking pictures, this often will slip right into a camera or shoulder bag.)

Understand that Nuit Blanche is a popular citywide event, which means lots of people out and about. Although crime in Paris is rare, as always when traveling, keep a sensible eye on your belongings, any special documentation or traveler’s checks in an inside-clothing travel pouch.

Watch the time! Unless you’re somewhere that’s easy to reach by cab, understand the Métro closes at 2 AM, which may mean you have to leave a lot sooner if you need to make more than one connection. It does reopen again at 5:30 AM, if you’re feeling truly adventurous. Be aware it may be packed toward the later part of the night.

You can download the full schedule of events and map here:
http://goparis.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=goparis&cdn=travel&tm=115&f=21&su=p284.9.336.ip_p531.50.336.ip_&tt=11&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.nuitblanche2009.com/les-buttes-chaumont.html%231

Here’s a full summary:
http://goparis.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=goparis&cdn=travel&tm=117&f=21&su=p284.9.336.ip_p531.50.336.ip_&tt=11&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.nuitblanche2009.com/img/editor/file/PressPack_Nuit%2520Blanche_%25202009.pdf

As always, in addition to the above keep a good Paris walking map on you, such as “Paris Pratique” (available at most Tabac and news agents).

On the other hand, it is one of Paris’ most trendy streets today, due in large part to its plentiful assortment of famous restaurants, cafés, cheese shops, organic groceries, wine shops, fish stores, flower stores and nearby cultural centers. As a result, the Montorgueil has become an “in” spot to “see and be seen” while doing one’s shopping in a social setting with firm roots in Paris’ history.

But where is the rue Montorgueil exactly?

Located in the middle of the very-central 2nd district, the Montorgueil has a close proximity to some of Paris’ most sought-after attractions. The Louvre museum is about 1.5 miles away, and the über-trendy Marais neighborhood is even closer, less than a mile.

There are several attractions even closer. Located at the southern end of the street are the famous Saint-Eustache Church, the Museum of Contemporary Art (Beaubourg Museum in the Georges Pompidou Center) and Les Halles, Paris’ sprawling underground shopping mall. North of the street is the old Opera house and the area known as the Grands Boulevards, with stores such as Printemps and the venerated art deco establishment, Galeries Lafayette.

On the street itself, in addition to plentiful places to shop for organic and other food, is the one-and-only Maison Stohrer, one of the most revered pastry shops (patisseries) and caterers. Elaborate frescoes and carvings decorate the front and inside.

The 2nd district is also home to a number of shopping galleries from the 18th century, such as La Gallerie Vivienne, with its ornate mosaic floor and upscale wine, tea and book shops. Earthier is the Passage Choiseul, which has a rather more New York businesslike feel, as it serves many of those who work in the nearby treasury (Bourse). Other include the Passage du Grand-Cerf , Passage des Panoramas and Passages des Princes.

In the 2nd you’ll also find la Bibliothèque Nationale de France, and the Place des Victoires, the beautiful round ’square’ with an equestrian statue of King Louis the XIVth and XVIIth architecture all around.

And of course, not far away is the beautiful Seine, rue de Rivoli and Seine.

In difficult economic times, you probably need it more than ever. The burning question is, can you afford it?

If you come to Paris in February, the answer is a resounding Yes!

This is also a very magical time of year, so read on.

February is Paris’ low season, when all of Paris is on sale, from shopping, airfare to luxury Paris apartment rentals from trusted agencies like Welcome2France.com. So you can make that “dream vacation” to the City of Lights for much less pocket change than any other time of year.

What better way for couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a trip to the world’s most romantic city? Shop-a-holics will find a veritable paradise of bargains, and art lovers have quite a lot to celebrate, too, as museums offer special exhibits on masters both modern and antique.

Singles will find a variety of fun events, as well. This is Paris! You’ll never be at a loss for things to do.

The low-season also means getting a better look at popular attractions such as the Notre Dame, and Eiffel Tower, as lines are lower than any other time of year.

Whether you want to have fun in a local skating rinks, or sit for hours in a toasty café with hot chocolate and espresso, February in Paris has a charm and an energy all its own, that no other time of year can capture. Unlike so many times of year, where crowds of tourists seem to flock everywhere you step, in February the city seems to exist for you and you alone. This is the Paris of Hemingway and Sartre, the Paris of locals, the Paris of deeper poetry.

Café-hop or stroll through the Latin Quarter or Saint Germain. Take a trip to Montmartre. Enjoy the many things to do during this month, all over the city.

Be sure to pack warm, as cold temperatures still linger, usually between 36 degrees and 38 degrees. Paris is a rainy city, and February is no exception, with around 1.5 inches of rain. There can be snow, too, so bring lots of warm sweater, scarves, mittens or gloves and a hat to cover your ears.

Also be sure to bring a sturdy umbrella that can hold up against gusts, and waterproof shoes with a good tread, as streets can be icy and slippery. You’ll probably want to steer well clear or high-heels or dress shows.

Remember the magic of sitting in warm cafés in February, so bring lots of good books and magazines.

Needless to say, shopping in Paris during February is a topic unto itself, with many opportunities to save on amazing brands. February is the tail-end of the winter sales season, with much merchandise the lowest it will ever be. We recommend a money pouch that goes under your clothes.

You may also wish to read more about Paris’ sales season. (Dates vary a little each year.)

We look forward to seeing you in Paris in February!

Welcome2France.com, one of Paris’ most established apartment rental agencies, presents a brief “Do’s and Don’ts” for those who would like a brief overview.

Do:

- Understand the importance of knowing some basic French phrases, and when to use them. (The answer to “when to use them” is “constantly”!) In etiquette-obsessed Paris, a few phrases go a very long way. Always say “bonjour” (”good day”) or “bonsoir” (”good evening”) when entering a café, restaurant, shop or other establishment. Say “merci” (thank you”) or “au revoir” (”goobye”) when leaving. Say “bonjour, excusez-moi” (”hello, excuse me”) before asking a question on the street. These phrases will work wonders. The ultimate phrase before asking a question may be “excusez-moi de vous deranger” (”excuse me for bothering you”), which will almost always illicit an overwhelmingly sympathetic and helpful response.

- Keep your ticket after entering the Métro. You may be asked for it by the Métro police as proof of payment. Don’t take it personally. This is the system. You can discard it after exiting the Métro at your final stop.

- Take the Métro at night, and enjoy walking around Paris at night. This is one of Europe’s safest metropolitan areas. Exercise normal caution, of course, but don’t be too afraid to have fun, either.

- Walk rather than cab. Seeing the little nooks and byways of Paris are half the fun! You may also consider taking the bus rather than the Métro, for the better view.

- Consider renting apartments in the 9th-18th districts. The 18th is the setting of the movie Amelie, and is considered by many to be one of Paris’ most charming area. Those who say “never rent above the 7th or 8th district” probably do not know Paris well. For example, an apartment in the 10th may be literally across the street from an apartment in the 2nd or 3rd, and will usually be much better priced because visitors don’t know the way Paris is laid out. Central Paris is arranged in a spiral, like a snail’s shell, so don’t go by “numbers alone.” Ask to see a Google map link. The question is, how far is it from what you want to see by Métro, or walk? Central Paris is quite small, and Métro can take whisk you practically anywhere in minutes. Saving money on an apartment rental in Paris means more money for delicious meals and other fun.

Don’t:

- Expect café or restaurant service to be on “U.S. time.” Things are likely to go at a much slower pace, so don’t be surprised or annoyed, as this is a cultural difference. In the U.S., everything is rated by its efficiency and speed. This is not the French way. The French way is slow and relaxed. Enjoy it.

- Be hurt if a smile isn’t returned. In many countries, a smile is used to show one means no harm, and to fail to return a smile is an insult. The Parisians have a frank, formal mentality, and believe a smile is used mainly between friends. They practice this with each other, just as they do with tourists. So while you may experience many lovely smiles, remember they often do this as a courtesy for tourists. If you don’t receive a smile back, remember the French way is simply different, and in time you can expect to see them surface. Remember: Much of the world is casual; Paris is formal.

- Don’t expect that, as a customer, you will always be right! This is a tough one for many American tourists. In the U.S., employee turnover is high compared to France, and in the U.S. efficiency is prized above all. As a result, U.S. management has been trained to always side with the customer. In France, where bonds between people are closer and more enduring, and jobs are typically held for years, managers may choose to side with the employee rather than the customer! Again, this is a cultural difference in a society that prizes quality of life above speed or efficiency. If you ever move to France permanently, this is a side of French life you may well come to treasure.

- Expect ice with drinks! As in much of Europe, ice cubes do not come in many drinks. You can ask for it, of course, (”glacons” are ice cubes), but be aware they may not always be available!

The main thing, of course, is to relax and enjoy Parisian life. The pace is slow, the people love formal (not casual) manners, and this is what makes Paris the unique place that it is!

And as one of Europe’s safest and most beautiful cities, it may be that little needs changing. So enjoy your trip and collect the many wonderful memories that are the hallmark of every trip to the City of Lights!

As in other markets, searching for the lowest price and the deepest discount has become the focus for many in the search for vacation and business apartment rentals in Paris.

And the good news is, there are great discounts to be found in the market, if you know where to look.

There is, however, a darker side to the rush for value and discounts.

French tourism offices have been flooded with complaints from unwary visitors who have found themselves in discount apartment rentals in Paris with plumbing problems, lack of hot water, broken fixtures, and hosts of other issues with seemingly no recourse for service or help.

The recession has hit the Parisian service industry hard, and a few rental agencies in Paris have even gone bankrupt.

This means less trusted agencies to choose from, and more individual owners with little or no experience renting their apartments. As an added complication, less trusted agencies means less “tried and true” apartments to go around, which also drives traffic to offerings from inexperienced single owners.

When it comes to fly-by-night agencies and individual apartment owners, the issues are twofold:

1) Lack of a service network dedicated to helping tenants should any issue arise, and

2) Lack of experience in how to help guests have a comfortable stay that doesn’t interfere with their plans in Paris (amenities, professional and timely greeting and check-out, professional cleaning and linen, etc.).

The watchword should be “caution.”

- Be aware of prices that seem too good to be true
- Don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions about location, amenities, and whether there is a dedicated service person in case of any issues
- Be sure they have a reputation of some kind, including full contact information, testimonials and that the renter has some sort of business history

As with most things in life, remember “you get what you pay for.”

With a little caution, every visitor to Paris should be able to strike a happy balance between value and the necessities to make their stay in Paris a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

Welcome2France.com, Paris’ leading apartment rental agency to the United States, is pleased to bring you this series of articles and to answer any questions you may have.

Sales are called “soldes” in Paris, so you’ll be seeing this word cropping up all around the city in July. The summer sale season truly starts off with a bang, with virtually every brand offering their entire line at discounts as deep as 40-50% off! And as if that wasn’t deep enough, generally prices fall an additional 20% off during the latter part of the sales season! (The sales period tends to last 6 weeks.)

Tourists can often enjoy an additional 10% in the bigger department stores such as the Galeries Lafayatte, Printemps, etc. Simply go to their information desks and ask about acquiring a special savings card for visitors. Usually the discount applies to certain items. Some may not be eigible, so ask what the rules or restrictions are. Either way, you’re sure to find a heck of a bargain during July.

These bi-annual selling periods are actually state-regulated, and are times to coincide before Parisians head to their summer locales in August, with another to banish the year prior’s inventory in January. The sales encompass more than clothing: everything from kitchen appliances to hardware is deeply marked down,

The tricks are the same as you could expect during any other frenzied shopping period. Arriving early gets you the best chance of finding the best bargains. You may also want to go to hotspots the day before the blitz, to see what items you’re most interested in.

Bring your politeness and patience. You’ll need both to get the most from salespeople, and just to weather the madness internally. Take a deep breath, expect to wait, and you’ll be fine. If it helps, pack a lunch and bring a book to read.

Dress for comfort, and for quick-changing when you’re trying on clothes (avoid wearing clothing with lots of buttons, for example). Wear very comfortable walking shoes (as you may well be traipsing about all day).

If you have your eye on a high-ticket item, be aware if there are many of them available, it will probably go on deeper discount midway through the season. Of course, if you think it’s in short supply, you may wish to indulge yourself. After all, that’s the beauty of the sales period. At the same time, waiting too long (especially past midway through the season) means the item you have your eye on may no longer be available. If you’re on a budget, you may well wish to skip the first couple of weeks and just see what’s left over for the second half. There will still be a lot of great things available, at a very discounted price, but many of the more expensive items will be sold out. Of course, most Parisians opt for a mixed approach: Go early, buy something you can’t live without, return midway for the items you’re not 100% sure of, then a final sweep near the end for the less important items at the best price.

As in any market, don’t hesitate to “cross check” prices between stores.

And most of all, be sure to know the return policy. (Many stores don’t allow returns of items purchased during sales seasons!)

And finally, many top Parisian stores have discounts online, as well. So feel free to shop even if you’re not in Paris!

In addition to the main department stores, there are numerous outlet stores in Paris to experience, all over the city and environs.

Here is a great list of stores to consider visiting:

http://www.pariswoman.com/archives/outlet_stores.htm

Without a doubt, it’s always nice to have air conditioning. Especially for those who are accustomed to having it during the summer months.

However, it’s worth knowing that most native Parisians still live without air conditioning, or make do with fans or smaller AC units that can be rolled into individual rooms.

When looking for an apartment in Paris, it’s often best not to rule out an apartment for lack of air conditioning. After all, the fact that most Parisians still live without AC it is somewhat indicative of how necessary it tends to be. However, each person has to gauge this for him or herself. As with all things, ask yourself the right questions:

Are you very heat sensitive, or perhaps in a physical state that makes you more sensitive than usual? How important are other considerations in terms of price, location or other amenities? Lack of AC for a healthy individual staying in early June, for example, may not be a deal-breaker if the price is right and the location is ideal.

And finally, how warm does it get where you live, in comparison to Paris?

To that end, Welcome2France Luxury Apartment Rentals presents the following “warmer months” seasonal overview, to be used with the questions posed above to help you make the best decision:

Spring in Paris (March 21 - June 21)

Paris reawakens, both literally and figuratively, with an explosion of color. Rains pick up a bit, and the temperatures rise slowly between March and June. Days get longer and there’s a noticeable increase in cyclists and joggers along the banks of the Seine. A sense of fun is in the air, and the city begins rolling out Spring-themed events, from fashion shows to museum openings.

March means 35 mm of rain average, and temperatures 39 - 53 F.
April means 42 mm of rain average, and temperatures 43 - 60 F.
May means 57 mm of rain average, and temperatures 50 - 68 F.

Summer in Paris (June 21- September 21)

Summers means basking in the sun in sidewalks cafes all over the city, and fun at the “beaches” set up all along the banks of the Seine. Concerts and cinema events abound, there are fun citywide events, warm summer showers and of course the Tour de France in early July.

June means 54 mm of rain average, and temperatures 55 - 75 F.
July means 59 mm of rain average, and temperatures 59 - 77 F.
August means 64 mm of rain average, and temperatures 57 - 75 F.

As a general rule of thumb, middle- to late-July and early- to middle-August are the peak times. A trip in early June is rarely cause for alarm. And it pays to keep in mind that, generally speaking, the fact that rains coincide with the hotter times tend to help. If you find an apartment you simply adore, consider that a fan may be all you need. But if you know temperature is difficult for you, consider an apartment with air conditioning.

No matter what you choose, Paris presents all travelers with the opportunity to have the absolute trip of a lifetime!

Also known as Saint Maarten, this tropical paradise must be seen to be truly believed and appreciated. Located in the northeast Caribbean, the almost 90-km island is split between France and the Netherlands, and is the smallest island in the world to be shared among two different countries.

Once you’ve been to Saint Martin, you’ll find it’s no wonder these two countries would cling to their halves as preciously (and happily) as they do. The air here is warm year-round, with cool island breezes that make the temperatures truly spectacular.

Another wonderful aspect of Saint Martin is the famous attitude of its inhabitants. Much as Paris is known as the “City of Light,” Saint Martin’s nickname is “The Friendly Island.” Americans will be pleased to know dollars are happily accepted here, English is spoken almost universally and the island retains an unmistakable “small town” feel in terms of its down-to-earth locals, in spite of the undeniable glamour and allure of this exotic locale.

The first thing you’ll notice about Saint Martin, of course, is the miles of amazing beaches. Tropical winds blow in year-round, and the island is famous for its water sports (surfboarding, speed boating, and much more), pristine waves, and the small boat excursions that can whisk you to any number of nearby islands for further adventures.

Lovers of shopping will rejoice at the simple fact that, yes, the entire island really is duty free! You’ll find designer labels, small boutiques, cosmetics, and much, much more to shop for while in Saint Martin. The best perfumes, clothes, furnishings and mementos are here for you to explore.

Spa-lovers are in for a special treat, as the island is now home to the world’s first Dior spa. This spotless white enclave is located in the luxury rental complex The Cliff at Cupecoy, Saint Martin. Not by coincidence, www.welcome2france.com offers two amazing apartments, Saint Martin - The Cliff C3 and Saint Martin - The Cliff D4, located in this very same building! So pampering and luxury are only a few feet away!

Needless to say, Saint Maarten has world-class restaurants and dining to enjoy in every cuisine imaginable. There is fine dining galore, from the quaint to the most spectacular. Restaurants on the French side of the island are a wonderful way to explore the treasured cuisine of France while on this amazing island.

The interesting thing about the island is how both halves retain individual characteristics while still meshing seamlessly. Most people cross from one country to another without even realizing they’ve passed a border.

However, upon closer inspection, you’ll see both islands have certain small touches and flavors reflective of the different countries that own each. The French side is very characteristically French in its incredible fine dining and impeccable attention to detail. And the side belonging to the Netherlands has an unmistakable appeal reflective of Dutch sensibilities and style.

Your trip to Saint Martin means an exotic vacation in an island paradise that remains accessible, friendly and safe, in a locale prized by some of the world’s most elite, rich and famous.

Welcome2France.com is thrilled to bring you to this tropical oasis in top style, at the affordable luxury that has made Welcome2France your premiere provider of luxury accommodations in France and French-owned areas like the breathtaking Saint Martin island!

In fact, the very process of planning tends to be so much fun, some of the graver questions often don’t come to mind. What if there’s a fire or theft while staying in the apartment? What if a visitor has a minor accident while on the property?

According to French Law, the renter of a holiday home is liable for any damage caused a fire, explosion or flood. Therefore, visitors renting an apartment in Paris must be covered by insurance, whether it be their own liability insurance extended to a holiday abroad, or by a temporary insurance that covers the period of the rental.

(While landlords and owners have insurance covering the actual building, this coverage does not include your personal effects, or liability for injuries occurring during your occupancy.)

And then there’s the most common occurrence: What if you have to cancel or delay your trip?

The difficult truth of the matter is, trip postponements and cancellations do occur. And in these instances, this generally means losing the deposit, unless the apartment agency is able to rebook the apartment for the same dates. (After all, the loss of the rental means income lost to the apartment owner, as well as to the agency.)

Fortunately, the process of becoming insured while in France is generally painless and quite affordable.

The first place to inquire is with your own liability insurance company. Often you can get a temporary “extension” for a trip abroad added to your existing policy. (In this case, proof of this extension will need to be shown on arrival at your French rental property.)

NOTE: Be aware, however, that while this extension may provide sufficient coverage to meet the requirement under French law, it may NOT cover a refund of the apartment price due to trip cancellation.

The single most comprehensive way to cover yourself is with a traveler’s insurance policy. Your agency can probably provide you with this, so be sure to inquire.

This policy will cover not only your liability for any accidents or damages while in the apartment, but will also typically refund your apartment price in the event of trip cancellations. In other words, in the event that you would need to cancel your holiday, you would be refunded for the total cost of the rental through the insurance policy.

And the good news is, this policy tends to be very affordable, and one of the smartest investments you can make before travel. Welcome2France, for example, offers a policy that is just 3.5% of the rental price.

Of course you want to save money. Of course you want to minimize costs.

But consider this: Insurance means you can pay and relax.

Beyond the obvious importance of adhering to French law (and the fact that you need to provide proof of some coverage on arrival anyway), with comprehensive insurance, if you have to postpone your trip, it’s as easy as rescheduling for another date. Without cancellation coverage, it may mean losing your deposit and delaying that trip to Paris for another year or more.