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International Marketing Study Program 2004
France and Paris (skating at the Hotel de Ville)
January 2004
After a short journey from London we arrived in France, and headed North- East of Paris to Epernay, the Champagne region of France. The majority of our 2 day visit was visiting the Champagne Houses of Moët et Chandon and Piper Heidsieck. We visited surrounding towns, including Reimes. We broke off into small groups to explore the traditional French patisseries, shops, and small corners of an old French town. We gathered again as a large group on our last night in Epernay to celebrate Fabians 21st birthday. Organized by a few of the students, we gathered in a small restaurant that looked liked we were seated in a wine cellar. Fabian was surprised and very grateful for the presents and dinner that the group had arranged.
We arrived in Paris after a two hour coach ride from Epernay. After a brief stop at the hotel, many of us headed straight for the outdoor ice-skating ring, situated near the romantic back drop of Hotel De Ville. Although it was cold, all of us enjoyed the experience.
With two full free days ahead of us and every corner of Paris to be explored, we broke off into small groups to cover as much ground as possible. With most of us waking up early to get the benefit of a full day, not everyone was as lively given their night out on the town. For some early-birds, the day began at the Flea Markets of Paris and the determined search for a bargain. Moving on quickly to the artistic town of Montmatre, we discovered small art markets where artists displayed their small oil paintings to purchase. Some of the paintings were still wet!! Some groups took the opportunity to enter the mad world of Dali, a famous Spanish Surrealist.
In separate groups, everyone experienced the major tourist attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Arc De Triumph, The Lourve, Sacre Coeur and Moulin Rouge. All as breath taking as the next! Some of us dared to climb the Eiffel Tower and the view of Paris was worth the744 steps!
After taking in sites, many groups went on to what Paris is most known for, it's shopping and clothes! Almost all groups experiencing the Champs Elysees, Rue De Rivoli, and Galleries LaFyette.
Our visit to France, although short, let us experience all the delights of French culture and everything it has to offer, especially the French Pastries!!
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