Wednesday, 11 January 2012

Reims, France

Reims is in the North of France and the architecture of the major buildings reflects a more germanic feel. It is the largest city on the region of Champagne-Ardenne yet it is not the capital for the region. There are still some parts of the city walls to be seen - originally Roman, and rebuilt during the Norman invasion of France around the 9th Century. This city is a beautiful place to visit and relax in.
For culture, the must-see places are the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims - a Roman Catholic cathedral, and where the Kings of France were once crowned; Porte de Mars ("Mars Gate", so called from a temple to the Roman god Mars ); Palais du Tau (The Palace of Tau) - was the palace of the Archbishop of Reims; Saint Remi Basilica, an easy walk from the centre, taking its name from the 5th-century Saint Remi.
If that's not enough, then try sitting in the centre square at one of the fantastic cafe bars and watch the world go by (one of our favourite past times from The Hotel Club). The people are quite cosmopolitan in nature and in the summer months it is a very relaxing place. Don't let the historical culture fool you though. This is quite an industrious city in the area, and you'll be hard pushed to find something not available in the shops and amenities.
A specific favorite hotel, in the centre ville is the Holiday Inn Garden Court. Located smack in the centre, its an idea place to start your break, but there are plenty of others around that area, so shop around for the best prices.

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