International Footprints

The City of Romance: Paris, France

July 20, 2008 · No Comments

Experience the romantic city of Paris France.  I’m sure your girlfriend or spouse has pondered the thought or maybe it has engulfed your dreams a time or two but Paris is as romantic as it looks on TV–even more!  Share a romantic kiss over wine and a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower.

Though one of the most popular sights in Paris is the Eiffel Tower, the city is a field of historically impressive buildings, museums and monuments.  One of which is the Arc De Triomphe.  Paris is the home of the world’s largest, most crazed roundabout.  You know, one of those really busy round roads where you really have to pay attention or it could mean au revoir to your car.  Jump in, drive out. . .who knows what to do, you’ve got to practice driving through those! 

Visit the bustling isles of the Forum Des Halles to enjoy shopping through the food markets.  This newly renovated structure is a main sight for tourists because of it’s fascinating exterior, constructed of chrome and glass.  Get everything you need to make a romantic French cuisine-inspired dinner for your significant other–wine, cheese, chocolate and seafood are Paris’ specialties.

Though I can’t come close to describing all that Paris has to offer, I can confidently say that it is a breathtaking city that you can’t even begin to accurately imagine.  So grab your date and schedule a couple of flights to the jaw dropping city of Paris, France.

Click here for more information on Paris’ sights, tourists attractions, entertainment and cuisine.

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Ohayou!

July 17, 2008 · No Comments

Japanese Lamps

Japanese Lamps

Japanese for good morning, ohayou is pronounced “o-hi-yo”.  Brush up on your Japanese phrases, take your shoes off and step into the city of Tokyo, Japan.  Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world and is the capital of Japan.  Tokyo is really a bunch of small cities inside of one big city.  With about 12.64 million people, there is no shortage of excitement. 

Culture spills through the streets of Tokyo.  Bow, bow, bow!  Japanese people bow to each other as much as Americans wave–well should wave.  Bowing from the waist down, with your hands at your sides is the polite greeting to a Japanese person.  No need to bow to everyone.  As a tourist, you are not expected to know the intricacies of the art of bowing however, not returning a bow is considered rude!  There are some places in Tokyo where they do not wear shoes.  Of course you won’t know the policy of every building you enter but following the lead of the local patrons is generally a good idea.

Tokyo’s scenery is by no means one dimensional.  It’s so easy to find every type of landform there is–volcanoes, mountains, hills, city streets, oceans. . .it’s just great!  However, by no means is Tokyo a mere painting of serenity.  At the heart of the city there is plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment.

Whether you have just a morning or all day to experience the wonders of Tokyo, there are tours that cater to your needs.  Ride on a tour bus, in a taxi or take a walk through the city.  However, I do suggest sightseeing from the water.  There are cruises that set out at all times of the day and you can even indulge in a seaside evening dinner.  So facilitate your own tour or enjoy a guided tour of the exciting city of Tokyo, Japan.

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First Stop: Detroit, MI

July 16, 2008 · No Comments

View from Canada

Detroit Skyline: View from Canada

Let’s start this journey in Detroit.  Whether you have to take a short road trip or plan a family vacation, Detroit, Michigan is no longer just the leader in automotive production.  Its newly restructured developments, breathtaking skyline and historical landmarks make this city a popular site for tourists. 

 

At the heart of Southeast Michigan, Detroit is located right on the Detroit River.  Imagine being so close to another country you can see it.  Well, looking out over the water, you can actually see Canada and the Ambassador Bridge.   From Belle Isle you can see the stunning Detroit skyline peaking with the GM logo-ed Renaissance Center—known to Detroiters as the RenCen.

 

Have you had your dose of culture today?  Detroit is a cultural melting pot filled with little communities inside of the city.  They’ve got Mexicantown, Greektown, Hockeytown and no one can forget Motown!  Get great food, entertainment, sports and music within minutes from each other. 

 

Detroit also has its fair share of culturally diverse museums.  Check out the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and the famous Motown Historical Museum which includes the popular Hitsville U.S.A. recording studio.

 

Take a stroll down Woodward Avenue through Detroit’s Entertainment District.  Filled with nightclubs, opera houses and theaters, Woodward Ave. is also home to Comerica Park where the Tigers play and Ford Field which houses the Detroit Lions’ games.

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets?  Take a ride over to one of Detroit’s suburban towns.  Throughout Metropolitan Detroit you’ll find the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak, the Palace of Auburn Hills and the Somerset Collection of Troy.

 

So plan a trip to Detroit and enjoy this multi-faceted historical landmark.  Bring the family, bring the dog and bring your enthusiasm!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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