Saturday, November 27, 2010

Holidays in Seine-Et-Marne, Ile-De-France

Seine-et-Marne was one of the original 83 departments, formed in 1790. Nowadays, the main reason that most tourists would visit the area is to enjoy Disneyland Paris, the theme park. Children young and old, as well as adults, will enjoy the rides and attractions there, but Seine-et-Marne has other things to offer including the historic town of Fontainbleau.

Disneyland Paris

There are actually two theme parks in the complex; the traditional Disneyland Paris Park and the Walt Disney Studios Park. The first features all the usual Disney attractions like the Sleeping Beauty castle, Disney parade and the nightly firework show. There are rides aimed at people of all ages, some with a Parisian twist. The Space Mountain ride at Disneyland Paris is based on the Jules Verne novel From the Earth to the Moon. However, all the usual children's rides are there too, such as the spinning teacups and It's Small World.

Walt Disney Studios is made to look and feel like a working studio lot, with live action shows and interactive exhibitions. There is also a large complex of hotels and self-catering accommodation attached to the parks with free entry usually included for guests. You can buy two or three-day passes if you know you are likely to want to spend some time enjoying the rides, which can have long queues. If you prefer rides to Disney characters, then the best time to go on the popular roller coasters is during the parade when the queues are shorter.

Fontainebleau

The old town and castle of Fontainebleau, quiet and sophisticated alternative to the chaos of Disney. The city is a forest of large, complete with hiking and biking trails, a popular weekend is surrounded by the Parisians. There is an equestrian center in the city, a pony trekking through the forest can arrange, if you want to enjoy an unusual perspective.

The castle of Fontainebleau was home to many of the kings and queensFrance through the centuries. The building you see today is on the site of the original 12th century castle and is actually a mix of architectural styles as different monarchs added their own touches. Visitors can see how the rooms would have been decorated in the 16th century, including works by famous artists and beautiful gilded furniture. There is even a theatre in the building and a room that was used often by Marie Antoinette. The gardens at Fontainbleau are extensive, with laid-out flowerbeds and ponds near the building and wilder, more natural forests as you get further away.

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