Beyond the touristy vibe, there's plenty to do and see on the world famous boulevard. (Paris, France) Arc de Triomphe, the famous french landmark, was built by Napolean to serve as French war victories. Engraved under the arc are the names of more than one hundred battles, and also the names of the generals who lead the armies. From Arc de Triomphe, if you start walking eastwards, you come across great landmarks like Luxor and the Louvre Museum. And on the way, you also walk on this tiny little avenue called the Champs-Élysées. The German army marched here in 1940 and the American army marched there in 1944. Even today, it is the site of events like the Bastille Parade and the finish point of Tour de France. Less officially, a lot of people come here on New Year's Eve, to celebrate with bottles of champagne. The avenue has a more touristic feel to it. You are not going to find a lot of locals here. It is only ten o'clock in the morning and there is already a line of people waiting for the shops to open. Interestingly, there are two car dealerships where you can check out the latest concept cars. Ono is one of them. There are lots of restaurants and cafes, considering this is one of the most expensive real estates in the world. Food and drink are not going to be cheap. Fouguet's is a legend, French palace during the first world war used to hang out here. More recently, freshly elected Nicolas Sarkozy came to celebrate is victory with his friend here on election night. Laduree is a well-known bakery and their desserts back at home have a very good reputation. Do not get too involved on cafes and shops every now and then to look up to get a glimpse of the wonderful architecture. Champs-Élysées has been home to a lot of cinemas and theaters. A lot of films are played in English with French subtitles. The Champs really has two parts - as you get closer to the Plaza de Luxor, past the commercial area, the character of the avenue changes totally. Shops and cafes are gone and you are in the middle of trees. It is a nice walk, much quiet than the avenue with all the cars. This is Cecil showing you Paris.

• published: 04 May 2010
• views: 18599