In Springtime thoughts turn to....

TRAVEL!!! Yes the weather is getting nice in the northern tier of states and spring is starting to show. Dogwoods and azaleas are blooming across the south along with daffodils and tulips. The warm weather is creeping slowly north and lingering.
The warming of the air typically leads to thoughts of vacation. A get of of town trip. With the slight improvement of the economy, maybe it is time to head to the Continent? The effects of last years spike in oil prices were air carriers reduced capacity on trans-Atlantic flights. Even with this reduction there is still an abundance of empty seats and airfare bargains are plentiful.
The European economy is not better than here and decreased travel has left hotel rooms empty in all countries and price categories. Offers of price reductions or free nights make Europe a bargain right now. With high hotel vacancy rates and discounted airfare, this might be the best time to head to Europe.
Spring in Europe is a riot of color, from the tulip fields in Holland, to lavender in Provence. Paris is abloom also. The weather has warmed and the Parisians have shed winter wear for more lively fashions. The Tuileries is full of strollers, lover and children with sailboats in one of the many fountains. Sidewalk cafes have returned their tables to the open air and people watching is back in vogue after a winter vacation. And pop into the restroom, it might surprise you.
One of the must sees in Paris is the Opera Garnier, the old opera house. It is the setting for the Phantom of the Opera from Broadway and cinema fame. Built in the Beaux Arts design, the imposing building is lavishly decorated both inside and out. The grand staircase is constructed of various colors of marble. The Grand Salon looks like Louis the XVI could hold court there. The chandelier hangs beneath a Marc Chagall mural painted inside the original dome.
One of the most recognizable structures in the world is to the south across the Seine, the Eiffel Tower. Built as a temporary structure for the World's Exposition in 1889, it is the most visited structure in the world The view is breathtaking both night and day. Take your postcards and mail form the post office on the second level and they will have a post mark from there. Also pay for the elevator ride, the stairs are a LONG walk.
If springtime in Paris has always been an item on your bucket list, why not make it happen? Damron Vacations can make your dream a reality. If getting away on short notice is a problem, maybe a fall visit with the sycamore trees putting on a dazzling display of leaves. Summer is usually very crowded and I would recommend not visiting then.