Travel to Paris with kids

Filed in archive European insider on August 26, 2005

Perhaps you have doubts about taking that Airfare deal to Europe. Maybe, it's because you have kids and you do not really think that it's such a great idea since... well, Europe is more of a cultural experience.

Don't fret! There's always a solution that matches every problem. For now, let me just cite one example. Paris. How can you satisfy both the adults and the children when touring around this wonderful French city, you may ask.

In between your visits to the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, head on to some of the city's parks where there are playgrounds for the kids and numerous benches for the weary parents.

Jardin d'enfants des Halles is in Forum des Halles (Metro stop: Ch�telet). It's a theme park divided into six different worlds. They have various activities geared for kids from 7-11 year old.

Jardin du Luxembourg is between rue Guynemer et le boulevard Saint-Michel (Metro stop: Luxembourg). The park has theme gardens for children, workshops, a bike path and tennis courts.

Should you be willing to go away from the city center, you can take the kids to La Ferme de Paris which is in Route de pesage Bois de Vincennes (you have to take the RER to get there). It's a real farm with animals and fields.

Or better yet, take a whole day off and take your kids to Disneyland Paris!

Again... When you travel with kids, not only will you expose them to culture but it will also promote family togetherness. As long as you take their special needs and limitations into consideration, it will be a relaxed, fun-filled family holiday which you would always remember.

2 very important tips: Order an extra Petit de Jeneur before you head on out to discover what this city has to offer. You will need your energy; (2) If you plan on using the Metro, be prepared. Take a baby carrier! Not only are there no elevators and escalators in most of the underground train stations, some entry ways are even too small to accommodate a baby stroller.