So I'm Not Going To Ireland Anymore - Going To Paris & London — Page 3

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#51

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 1:03pm

In addition to Versailles, another chateau to visit is Vaux Le Vicomte near Melun, about 40 minutes south of Paris by commuter train. It's a beautiful example of late 17th century architecture, the gardens are stunning, and without it Versailles would never have been built. It's not nearly as popular as Versailles, so it's not as crowded, either.

Vaux Le Vicomte

Cheyenne Jackson tickled me. AFTER ordering SoMMS a drink but NOT tickling him, and hanging out with Girly in his dressing room (where he DIDN'T tickle her) but BEFORE we got married. To others. And then he tweeted Boobs. He also tweeted he's good friends with some chick on "The Voice" who just happens to be good friends with Tink's ex. And I'm still married. Oh, and this just in: "Pettiness, spite, malice ....Such ugly emotions... So sad." - After Eight, talking about MEEEEEEEE!!! I'm so honored! :-)

#52

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 1:18pm

One general piece of advice, too:

If you're staying in hotels in London and Paris, ask your concierge for advice on restaurants and travel tips and even (potentially) theatre tickets. You'd be surprised what they can do. We played it by ear on our own a few times and regretted it with either pricey restaurants with bad food or just had to settle for someplace blah at the last minute.

So we stopped by the concierge desk after that, and when we went on the walking tour in London, I asked them for good and inexpensive places to eat around the area we were going. We ended up with a great place and had a wonderful meal. Don't be afraid to use that service at a hotel (again, depending on where you're staying). They really do have inside info, valuable suggestions, and often connections that can help out.

EDIT: Explaining further with the good restaurant tip we got. This concierge told us about a very nice restaurant by the river near the Tower. He said, "don't go there, because it's pricey and crowded." Then he told us to take the stairs outside the restaurant to the second floor. It was a much more casual place that shared the same kitchen and the same view of the river. The menu was more limited, but the food was fantastic and half the price of the place downstairs.

That's what I mean by good info.

"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."

blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22

Updated On: 1/27/12 at 01:18 PM

#53

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 1:51pm

1) Are there tours of Buckingham Palace?

-Only of a few spaces and in the summer only.

2) Does the Queen pose for pictures like Santa does at Macys?

-The only queen that will pose for you in London will be at a gay bar.

3) Is the Eiffel Tower better during the day or at night? Or both?

-IMHO, neither. It's packed, it's expensive, there's scammers all around you and the views of Paris are better from the Arc de Triomphe or Montmartre. Take the Metro to Trocadero right before 7pm. You can take great pics from there of the tower and people gather there to see it light up at night.

4) How far outside the city is Disneyland? Are there busses or a train that take you there?

- Takes around 30-40 mins. There is a train that stops right at Disneyland. Unless you are a hardcore fan, and you feel you have to see every Disney park, I'd say skip it. The rides are few and nowhere as good as in the USA - with the exception of their Space Mountain, which is incredible.

5) Are there any day trips outside of London that I should consider?

- I've traveled to every continent in the world and I still say that England's countryside is one of the most beautiful places you can see. The city of Bath and especially a hike in the Cotswolds are not to be missed.

Listen, I don't take my clothes off for anyone, even if it is "artistic". - JANICE

#54

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 2:02pm

Along with all the other suggestions, I adore the rose garden at Regents Park. If you want a castle tour, make a day trip out to Windsor/Eton. My favorite week in Paris was simply exploring all the neighborhoods -- the metro pass is the best bargain on the planet for seeing Paris.

#55

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 2:37pm

I enjoyed Disneyland Paris mostly because it is SO different than the American parks and the theming and decor is quite stunning. My only quibble is that they charge a separate admission for the Studios, which is small enough to be another themed area incorporated into one park. Even the entrances to both parks are right next to each other. That part is pretty scammy and nonsensical. But I'd pay again for another ride on that Space Mountain. The atmosphere they created was fantastic (and more like what the original Space Mountain used to be).

"What can you expect from a bunch of seitan worshippers?" - Reginald Tresilian

#56

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 8:08pm

Disagree about the Eiffel Tower. It's Paris. You can't not do it. That said, though, there's no real need to go all the way to the top since it can get a bit pushy-shovey. I went to the second level and was perfectly happy. Don't be sucked in by the draw of the elevator! Walking back down is the best part.

You absolutely must go to lunch in the Latin Quarter across the river from Notre Dame. The honeyed duck is the best thing I've ever tasted.

I know you. I know you. I know you.

#57

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 10:29pm

Disagree about the Eiffel Tower. It's Paris. You can't not do it.

Oh, love. I've been there over a dozen times. When you discover all the city has to offer, you are happy not to have spent hours with "Stupid Tourist" written all over your forehead.

I agree that coming close, or even standing right under is worth it. But as an attraction that is universally voted as the "Biggest Tourist Trap" I'll never say it is worth going up.

Listen, I don't take my clothes off for anyone, even if it is "artistic". - JANICE

#58

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/27/12 at 11:27pm

I would recommend Disneyland Paris only if you've never gone to any of the theme parks or are (like me) a huge fan of them and as Matt mentioned want to compare the differences (of which both the Haunted Mansion--aka Phantom Manor, and the new version of Pirates of the Caribbean are the best new versions IMHO).

As others have said theatre wise I would pick one or two shows (plus anything you want to see at the National) in advance but otherwise, even if it's a hot show, you can ALWAYS get discount tickets at the Leicester Square (it's in my limited expewrience much easier than the TKTS booth in New York) the day of for half price or more.

I actually experienced awful advice from our hotel the last time I was there about places to eat, but if you wander around and eat anywhere not too tourist centered you can get good deals easily.

(PS I think the Eiffel Tower is better from the ground and not worth the price--but if you feel it's something you have to tell people you've done, then by all means go).

#59

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 9:32am

The Eiffel Tower was designed to be a tourist trap for the Paris Exposition of 1889, and it's been that way ever since. I don't think there's anything wrong with that at all. If I had been to Paris dozens of times, I could see skipping it, absolutely. But on a first trip, it's a must.

And go all the way to the top. It wasn't "pushey shovey" when I was there. They only allow a certain number of people to go up at a time. Then again, a big reminder that I went early in the morning, right before it opened, and had a 15-minute wait. I wouldn't want to go to ANY of the tourist hotspots in Europe during peak hours and in peak season. You're asking for major delays waiting in line and hoards of people there with you.

I will say this, other than the incredible view of the city from the top ... the sheer size of the Eiffel Tower is staggering. You can't get that from any photo, video, or movie. Or even from a mile away. You have to be there.

"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."

blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22

Updated On: 1/28/12 at 09:32 AM

#60

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 4:50pm

To each its own, but I'd never say it's "a must" to go up in a city like Paris. A must to go to it, yes. But not to go up.

Perhaps if you do arrive early enough. I felt there was nothing worth regarding the cost, the hours waiting in line and the views from that spot of the city.

Going to Montmartre after, I realized the views are much nicer from there (including actually seeing the tower from afar) and that was free. I also enjoyed much more looking at the tower light up from the Trocadero platform, than all I had to go through to go up. Perhaps I'm alone, but I felt so cheated and wanting to be anywhere else.

Listen, I don't take my clothes off for anyone, even if it is "artistic". - JANICE

Updated On: 1/28/12 at 04:50 PM

#61

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 5:59pm

I'm sorry you had a bad experience at the Eiffel Tower, blaxx. It makes me sad. And the way you described it, it does sound pretty awful.

I also adored the view from the Sacre Coeur at the top of the Montmartre. But it's not the same as the view from the Eiffel Tower, right in the middle of the city.

Maybe part of the appeal for me is that I have a real fascination for "world's fairs." One of my earliest memories ever (in my life) is going to the 1964-65 World's Fair in NY. I wasn't yet 3 years old.

I think because of that, I took the history with me when I rode up in the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It wasn't just an event I was experiencing right then. I was picturing myself seeing the same view in 1889. And seeing similar "points of interest" and "modern marvels" from the Chicago Exposition of 1893 and the St. Louis fair of 1904 and the NY World's Fair of 1939. Back when people had hope for "tomorrow" and, at least for that one day, saw nothing but a promising future.

That's what I took with me when I stood at the top of the Eiffel Tower.

And yeah, getting there early and not having to fight horrendous crowds helped me enjoy that moment.

EDIT: And for something like that, the expense is moot. However, I will say, I don't recall it being THAT expensive. Maybe $25? I honestly don't remember because I genuinely didn't care.

EDIT2: Okay, I just checked. It's $13.40 Euro. That's $17.57 US dollars. When you're in Paris and your'e talking about going to the top of the Eiffel Tower, that price is not even remotely an issue! If $17.57 will hurt your funds, you have no business traveling to Paris from the U.S. in the first place. Sorry ... but seriously.

"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."

blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22

Updated On: 1/28/12 at 05:59 PM

#62

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 6:44pm

It's so funny, my Mother called me today and asked me how many lists I've made so far. I'm such a planner when it comes to this kind of stuff it takes me months and months just to come up with a plan to squeeze in as much as I can and still not feel rushed. Of everything I'm looking forward to, just strolling around the streets of these two cities is something I've always dreamed about doing so I'll definitely be taking advantage of that.

That is a shame about Buckingham Palace though. I'd give anything to see the inside of it so I guess I'll have to plan another trip in the summer following. As for Disneyland, that is an absolute must for me. It's my goal to get to every Disney park and I can't think of a better way to spend my birthday than at this one.

Ugh, 238 days until I go.

#63

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 6:54pm

Oh, the steps of Sacre Couer. I remember looking at them thinking, "It can't be that bad," and I was a heartbeat away from cardiac arrest at the top.

I know you'll of course want to hit the Louvre, but the sheer size of it is a turn-off for me. We spent half the time trying to locate the Mona Lisa, and when we got into her room we couldn't see because of the crowds. I much prefer the Musee d'Orsay.

I know you. I know you. I know you.

#64

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 6:55pm

Well I need to see that bitch, Lisa. That's an absolute must for me.

#65

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 7:13pm

You gotta see the bitch, Jordy. And yes, there will be a crowd around her, no matter what time of day you go.

As for those steps at the Sacre Coeur ... there's a handy funicular right next to them, to the left of the carousel. Please take it going up.

EDIT: Basically, for the Louvre, if you only have a half-day there (or so), you need to hit the Denon Wing (the Louvre is divided into wings). That's where you'll see the "big three." The Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and the Venus de Milo. The rest of the Denon Wing is terrific, too.

"Jaws is the Citizen Kane of movies."

blocked: logan2, Diamonds3, Hamilton22

Updated On: 1/28/12 at 07:13 PM

#66

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/28/12 at 7:15pm

And yeah, getting there early and not having to fight horrendous crowds helped me enjoy that moment.

Maybe that did it for me. I also didn't have the same investment you did, of course - but I can see where you are coming from. It would be wonderful if it was an easy ride up. I hear that in the winter it is a lot better, and the atmosphere makes it romantic.

As for Disneyland, that is an absolute must for me. It's my goal to get to every Disney park and I can't think of a better way to spend my birthday than at this one.

I've been to all their parks now - so I understand you as well. Their Main Street is REALLy nice and you'll never forget the gorgeous Space Mountain. I remember hotels in the area being really affordable too.

Listen, I don't take my clothes off for anyone, even if it is "artistic". - JANICE

#67

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/29/12 at 11:07am

Jordan, I understand the Disney Park fan in you. But I would really visit Disney on your second visit to Paris. You are on limited time. Ten day trip, two days air, another half day traveling between Paris and London. You will spend one of your entire days in Paris just for Disney. Paris, especially if you have nice weather (October fifty/fifty) is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Especially for a first timer. The city is even more beautiful at night, all lit up. There are dozens and dozens of things to see. I, too, am OCD about planning, and amaze friends of how much I see. I start early in the morning and keep going at night. Museums and palaces in Paris. have different closing days during the week. If there are musts on your list, you need to look at that and plan accordingly. I'm just saying on that full day you go to Disney, you could visit four or five other things. Its your choice. Have a good time either way. By the way, although you will not be able to visit inside of Buckingham Palace, you must attend a changing of the guard. Yes,its touristy, but you will see London in it grandness. Also while walking around, watch out for the soldiers in full armor on their horses. Usually around government buildings.

#68

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/29/12 at 8:20pm

I agree that you should go to the Eiffel Tower -- it's not that expensive, it is a nice view, and it's one of the most famous monuments in the world. In October, I don't think the lines would be that long, especially if you went early.

Definitely go on the night time Seine river boat tour ("bateau mouche") -- unless you have a car, there is no other easy way you can see all of the monuments lit up at night.

The biggest tourist ripoff in London or Paris is the London Ferris Wheel ("London Eye") -- more expensive than the Eiffel Tower, they make you wait even if there is no one else waiting (they sell "fast passes" that allow you to skip the line so they make everyone wait to get people to spend more money), and the skyline in London is not all that interesting IMO. I would go to the Eiffel Tower a million times before I did the London Eye again.

If you have a chance to see a Shakespeare production at the Globe Theatre in London, do it. I did the lawn standing for The Merry Wives of Windsor on a perfect September evening, and it was one of the most memorable evenings of theater I have ever had.

"What was the name of that cheese that I like?" "you can't run away forever...but there's nothing wrong with getting a good head start" "well I hope and I pray, that maybe someday, you'll walk in the room with my heart"

#69

Since Growl Is Going To Redcrotchitstinks, I'm Going To Ireland. Who's Been?

Posted: 1/30/12 at 4:17pm

"That is a shame about Buckingham Palace though. I'd give anything to see the inside of it."

The interior is (currently unfashionable) Edwardian. The only one of the Queen's four homes (Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Balmoral and Sandringham) that makes it into serious architectural history books is Windsor Castle and the interiors there are stunning, particularly the new work done after the 1992 fire.

Windsor can easily be done in a day trip.

So can Downton Abbey but that will probably be more crowded:

http://www.highclerecastle.co.uk/

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