And Paris just so happens to be one of the hottest spots to spend the holidays. The festivities and celebrations range from dining of the highest class to raging and dancing at the hottest clubs to being awed and dazzled by some gorgeous fireworks, all topped off with delicious French champagne on the banks of the Champs-Elysees. What could be better, seriously?

You can start gathering there on that famed and notorious street around nine o’clock. At midnight, there comes the real thrill — a fabulous light show originating from none other than the Eiffel Tower. Whether you sit on the banks or take in Montmarte, New Years in Paris is the experience of a lifetime.

Okay, so I have heard some crazy things in my time when it comes to traveling but I never – ever thought that I would hear about people staying at a hotel that makes you become and life the hamster life.  In my world, I go on vacation to get away from the constant wheel, but here, that is one of the amenities that this French hotel offers up.

This hotel is located in Nantes and is called the Hamster Villa.  It actually allows their guests to sleep in beds of hay dine on some grains and drink from a hamster water fountain – this is certainly the way to appreciate the way a hamster lives!

You also will be getting wi-fi as well as a TV for the human in you and you get it all for about $150.00 per room per night … what a deal!

Because of the climate and setting, Alsace is also ideal for growing grapes and making wine; the environment is incredibly fertile.

It has many trademarks, not the least of which include: lovely villages and streets with charming, half timbered houses; beautiful mountain scenery; many castles, quite a few in ruins, which can make for some very historical exploring.

The personality of Alsace is individual; it is neither solely French nor solely German, but instead exists somewhere in the middle. That may be the reason it is considered to be one of the friendliest regions in all of France.

It comprises some of the Mediterranean coast on the south eastern side of France, and it is well known for its many resorts. It is rich, luxurious, and definitely sophisticated.

Don’t worry, though, if you catch it in the off season, the prices can be a bit more reasonable, and trust me when I say that resorts are not the only thing the Cote d’Azur has to offer, not by any means.

That is why you need to go off the beaten path. Nice, Cannes, and Saint Tropez are great, but they are not the only things there.

We have often wondered why everyone is crazy about Paris. What is it that is so special about this city with blinding lights? While the list is endless, here are some famous tourist destinations in Paris:

The Louvre: One of the most famous museums known around the world for its magnificence. It houses the world’s most diverse collection of pre-20th century art. It also serves as the fortress for the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and many more.

The Norte Dame Cathedral: A trip to Paris is not complete without paying a visit to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in all of Europe. The Nortre Dame Cathedrals stands proud of medieval architecture—spire, stained glass windows and breathtaking towers. Climbing atop the cathedral to see an impressive view of the city will make you realize why it’s one of the top attractions of the city.

Eiffel Tower: Can you imagine Paris without its famous landmark? This iron tower, which represents modern Paris, was built by Gustav Eiffel for the 1889 World Exposition. It was once unbelievably unpopular, but now it serves as the crowning glory of the Paris’ skyline.

Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysées: This 164-foot arch was built during the reign of Emperor Napoléon I to represent military power and victory. The structures impressive sculptures honor the generals and soldiers during Napoléon I’s reign. Visiting the Arc and walking along the majestic avenue of Champs-Elysées is a must for all first time Paris visitors.

Much more Paris highlights on Paris Blog I Love Paris.