For the best hot chocolate in the world, head to Angelina's! Within walking distance of the Louvre, this Belle Époque style restaurant serves the most decadent and delicious hot chocolate called L'Africain, deriving its name from the African cocoa beans its made from. Like most famous French institutions, Angelina's has a touch of celebrity with past patrons including Proust and Coco Chanel to boast of. Of course the rich history and chocolate comes at a price but it is well worth it for the indelible taste.
If you have soaked up enough of the Masters at the Louvre and d'Orsay, head over to the Pompidou Centre showcasing modern and contemporary art. The odd looking facade of the Pompidou somewhat prepares you for some of the odd looking art inside. I was lucky to be in time for the Roy Lichtenstein pop art exhibit which turned out to be fun. While you might find some exhibits gorgeous, others interesting and some downright weird, you will most definitely not be bored.
While visiting graveyards is not high on most travel agendas, the Père Lachaise cemetery makes for a perfect afternoon with friends while you walk through its sprawling and beautiful expanse trying to locate the famous graves Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison and Edith Piaf among many others. Traveller tip: Wear comfortable shoes
If you are in Paris for Bastille Day on 14th July do not miss out on the fireworks near the Eiffel Tower. While the fireworks are spectacular, what I loved the most was the electric atmosphere with all the nearby streets and bridges thronged by Parisians and tourists alike. Make sure you reach a bit early to find the perfect spot to watch the fireworks because it will get supremely crowded. And don't forget that bottle of wine! Traveller Tip: Entry to the Louvre is free on Bastille Day. There are also quirky parties at firehouses, free ballet performances and concerts so remember to check Bastille Day events in advance if you are lucky enough to find yourself in Paris at this time of the year.
It's a cliché but the first time I stood in front of the Eiffel Tower and it unexpectedly started to twinkle, it was magic! Traveller tip: The Eiffel Tower twinkles at every hour for 5 minutes after sunset so you could either stand somewhere in the vicinity or take a river cruise to watch the twinkling Eiffel (and other gorgeous monuments and historic buildings) from over the Seine!
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