Wherever you go in Italy, there's bound to be a special event or festival nearby. Italy is full of fun celebrations all year. You can join in and become a part of these great traditions when you visit Italy.

Choice Hotels, Unique Settings for the Italy Traveller

Touring Italy has many benefits. One benefit is the fact that Italy offers some of the most exquisite, unique resort settings on the globe. Many of Italy's remote hotels were built long ago and were later renovated for comfort and convenience, so the tourist gets the best of both worlds.

Every region and major city in Italy has more than a few unique hotels in settings that will mesmerize the tourist.

Many hotels are near restaurants or have a built-in restaurant for convenience. Some are known for their picturesque designs (both architecture and decor) as well as the landscapes where they sit. Below are some fabulous hotels along with detailed descriptions about their special features to help the traveller who's looking for something beyond ordinary.

Lap of Luxury in the Alps of Italy

La Perla Corvara, Italy

Situated high in the Dolomites, the South Tyrolean lodge called La Perla is located in Corvara, a friendly Alpine village that's near the Swiss border. The lodge has traditional rooms with rustic wood furniture, decorative headboards and printed fabrics. The hotel resembles a typical Swiss lodge, with a dining area that has all wood paneling and timbered ceilings. The walls are lined with wine bottles. There's also an unusual motorcycle museum at the resort that has antique bikes on display! The resort is just over 100 miles from Venice.

Guests at La Perla enjoy the daring view of the Dolomite peaks, snowshoeing and skiing activities, and also hiking

during warm weather. There are Turkish baths, a jacuzzi and saunas as well as an indoor-outdoor pool. This is a fun and relaxing place to rest during your Italy tour.

Vigilius Mountain Resort South Tyrol, Italy

This resort sits at the top of a mountain in South Tyrol in the Alps, near the Italian-Austrian border. Don't want to drive up the mountain? You won't have to because this resort is accessible by cable car only - 1500 meters up!

The hotel is modern in design with stone and concrete on lots of plain wood. If you want remote, this is the place to be.

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria Sorrento, Italy

This hotel is located high on a cliff that overlooks the harbor in Sorrento. The hotel is actually three villas, each built in the 1800s. The hotel has been restored, but still maintains its original design. Ornate frescoes on the ceilings of a few suites and unique furniture give the hotel its unique beauty.

There are two restaurants. One is a traditional dining room with a 19th century elegant style. The other is a terrace restaurant that has a tremendous view of the harbor. Guests staying during the summer months might get to dine by candlelight on the Vittoria Terrace as a small orchestra plays music. The hotel offers a private elevator, which transports guests to the harbor. Boats are also available for hire here.

Il San Pietro di Positano Positano, Italy

For those not afraid of heights, this unusual hotel descends with each level down a cliffside. The views of the sea can be enjoyed from each room and terrace to the max because the hotel is built alongside the cliff only one room deep. Each room has its own private terrace. This makes for a very relaxing and quiet getaway.

The entrance of the hotel is actually a small chapel from the 17th century that was devoted to San Pietro. There is a restaurant on top of the hotel that serves Italian cuisine and offers more stunning views of the Gulf of Salerno. There's also a swimming pool that has been carved into the cliffside. A lift can be taken from the hotel lobby down to a private beach and seaside cocktail bar.

Grand Hotel Quisisana Capri, Italy

The Grand Hotel Quisisana is where many supermodels, actors and other members of the elite go to hide away. Located in the popular city of Capri, this hotel resembles a habitat for the rich and famous with its 19th century design, endless mirrors and amazing floors. A pool and outdoor cafe are available.

Caesar Augustus Hotel Capri, Italy

Sitting above the Bay of Naples, 1000 feet above, is this classic hotel with its unmatching views of the bay. The rooms are welcoming with bright modern bathrooms and private balconies. There is a restaurant on a terrace that overlooks the bay also. It offers stylish comfort and a beautiful view all in one package!

The Capri Palace Anacapri, Italy

A hotel with Roman Empire elegance and a stunning view of the sea, the Capri Palace welcomes guests to gorgeous rooms with chandeliers, tile and marble baths and canopy beds. Luxury is an understatement at this hotel. Even outside the hotel is a well-kept garden. A pool and spa are available for relaxation. The hotel offers a penthouse suite and also an apartment-style suite for long stays that has its own garden and pool.

Don't settle for second best on your trip. If you don't see a unique hotel above for the area you plan to visit, use online resources and searches to find other dream resorts in Italy! Choice Hotels, Unique Settings for the Italy Traveller

San Domenico Palace Hotel Taormina, Sicily, Italy

For a luxury vacation in Sicily, tourists enjoy staying at the San Domenico Palace. It sits on a hill above Taormina and offers lovely views of the volcanic peak of Mount Etna as well as the Ionian Sea. The hotel is in a 15th century monastery with beautiful terraces and gardens. Although the building is ancient, the interior is not. The marble bathrooms are very modern as are the fixtures and amenities. Guests enjoy lounging in the pool during the summer, or dining at one of three restaurants that each serve a broad range of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Hotel Eden Rome, Italy

When in Rome, many tourists choose to stay at Hotel Eden, even Hemingway and Ingrid Bergman! With over a hundred rooms, Hotel Eden is far from small, but gives guests a feeling of seclusion, like a stay in a private residence. It's just a few blocks from the Spanish Steps, a main tourist area in Rome.

The rooms are classic and offer striking views of the city. Antique furnishings and corniced ceilings blend with modern design to give an elegant appearance. Nearby there are great shopping areas, attractions, sights and restaurants for fine dining.

Hotel Forty Seven Rome, Italy

Hotel Forty Seven is a place for art lovers with Italian art from the 20th century on each floor. The rooms have comfortable furnishings, satellite television and Internet connections. Twenty-four hour room service is also available. Atop the hotel is a restaurant that overlooks Ancient Rome, where guests can enjoy a delicious Mediterranean dinner.

Hotel Capo d'Africa Rome, Italy

This hotel offers spacious, decorative rooms with high ceilings, painted in warm, bright colors. The furnishings are modern although the building was once a school in the early 20th century. The neighborhood is quiet, and there is a rooftop terrace that's a great place to relax. Just a few blocks from the hotel is the Colosseum.

Hotel Gritti Palace Venice, Italy

This is a gorgeous hotel that was once a palace in Venice. It's just steps away from San Marco, but located far enough from the roar of traffic to give guests a peaceful stay. The Terrazza restaurant at the hotel offers a terrific view of the Grand Canal.

Hotel Spadari al Duomo Milan, Italy

The Hotel Spadari al Duomo has a middle name - and that name is "fashion." Designers often set up at this hotel for furniture fairs, making it a favorite place to stay for those in the fashion industry. The rooms are comfortable with custom-made furniture for a unique appeal. Some rooms offer a view of the Duomo cathedral. There are beautiful contemporary paintings hanging on the walls.

Grand Hotel et de Milan Milan, Italy

An elegant hotel in Milan that has lovely rooms with period furniture and rich fabrics. The La Scala theater is just a short walk from the hotel.

La Sommita Relais Culti Ostuni, Puglia, Italy

La Sommita Relais Culti is a hotel that doesn't look like much on the outside, and the rooms are very discrete. This is an unusual hotel that has only nine suites, with each suite appearing to be the only one around. This is the place to stay for those needing seclusion or who want to grasp what it's like living in a place like Ostuni.

Grand Hotel Continental Siena, Italy

Once an aristocratic residence, the Grand Hotel Continental is the most luxurious hotel in Siena. It's located just off the pedestrian street of Piazza del Campo in the heart of Siena. Although the building has been restored, the original details remain. The hotel has a grand ballroom, a splendid restaurant and a wine bar. The rooms are designed with frescoed ceilings, paintings and unique furnishings while also offering the modern conveniences of satellite television and Internet access.

Lungarno Suites Florence, Italy

This hotel adds modern elegance to Florence with three stylish hotels. The suites are apartment-style with kitchenettes and refrigerators, and are also very spacious. The hotel's location makes it easy for guests to explore the city. Families will appreciate the extra space! A dream vacation in Italy doesn't have to be bland, and neither do the accommodations!

Understanding the Italian Language

Just as there is a specialty cuisine for every region in Italy, there is also a special dialect. Italians in every region have their own unique way of expressing the Italian language. Some areas such as Friuli, Sardinia and Sicily even have their own language!

A few of the most distinct dialects are listed below: *Central Marchigiano *Umbrian *Tuscan *Venetian *Pugliese *Laziale *Abruzzese

Brief History of the Italian Language

Documents dating as far back as the 10th century were written in Italian, although it is believed that some form of Italian language was used in the 8th century by people who did not understand Latin. Traders and clergy might have used this language to address the people of those days.

The Italian language has evolved into many different dialects and languages throughout the centuries due to differences in politics, lack of communications and mobility, and also various culture gaps as people of different origins migrated to Italy.

Differences in Dialects

There is a standard Italian language, which is taught in schools of all regions. The standard language was derived from Medieval Tuscan dialect. The dialects each have their own characteristics so even tourists can tell a difference when visiting more than one region.

The Neapolitan dialect, for example, is often used in popular songs. This language is called Napoletano. Speakers of this language change articles into single vowels. "Il" might be shortened to 'O. The Roman dialect called Romanesco is where the speaker replaces the letter "l" with the "r" sound. Toscana is a dialect used by the Tuscans where the letter "c" is often pronounced as "ch" combined.

Rare Italian Dialects

In remote areas of Italy there are rare dialects that are in danger of extinction. These often combine two languages or several dialects to form their own distinct language.

The Judeo-Italian dialect is called Italkian. It is a minority language that was spoken by people living in urban areas of Rome or in central and northern Italy between the 10th and 17th centuries. The language was very popular in Livorno. It's a blend of Italian and Hebrew, and only around 4,000 people actually use it as their primary language today.

Yiddish is another rare language that blends Hebrew and German. Ladino is a language that blends Spanish and Hebrew.

Jews who Speak Italian

At the beginning of the 20th century, Jews in Italy were fluent with their own language as well as standard Italian. They also had a dialect called Judeo-Italian, which differed by region and city. Judeo-Italian dialects were often used in Jewish rituals and the Passover Haggadah, and they were also written in Hebrew.

Italian Language for the Traveller

Travellers to Italy will benefit tremendously if they learn key Italian words and phrases before their trip. Eating at restaurants, visiting attractions or villages, and touring local sites will be much easier for the tourist who knows what to ask and how to ask in Italian! Courses to help learn Italian phrases as well as culture and traditions in various regions are available online.

Just like any other nation, the dialect one hears will depend on where he visits. The language and dialects make each area unique, and tourists can discover something new everywhere they go in Italy.

Tour the Top Museums in Italy

In every major city of Italy, there are hundreds of museums to choose from. It's no wonder because Italy is considered an open-air gallery in itself. With so much of the world's art and history displayed in the museums of Italy, you'll be able to explore unlimited art pieces, exhibits and sculptures!

Visit the Vatican Museums of Rome

If you want to tour endless treasures that have been stored away by many popes from the past, then the Vatican Museums will solve your curiosity. These buildings are full of priceless Greek and Roman sculptures and collections of art by famous masters. The Sistine Chapel is a must-see during your tour.

A Quick Visit to Galleria Borghese in Rome

For a quick museum outing, stop by Galleria Borghese in Rome. Don't let the museum's small size fool you. There are wonderful paintings by Raphael and Caravaggio as well as a Baroque sculpture by Bernini. The building was once a palace from 1613 and underwent 14 years of renovation, giving it a lovely decor to match the timeless masterpieces inside.

See the Legacy at the National Etruscan Museum in Rome

Visit the National Etruscan Museum in Rome to see first-hand the legacy of the original Romans - the Etruscans! They were a mysterious people who left behind marble and bronze sculptures, jewelry and also tales and legends of mythical heroes. Artifacts of the Etruscans were usually very detailed and mystical in design. The Etruscan collection is located in a papal villa that dates back to the 1500s.

Uffizi Gallery in Florence - A Palace from the Renaissance

This museum houses the world's grandest Renaissance painting collection, and is located in a Renaissance palace from the 16th century. It was once the administrative headquarters for the Duchy of Tuscany when Florence was under the control of Medicis.

See Unusual Sculptures at Bargello Museum in Florence

This museum was once a fortress palace from the mid 1200s. It now houses some of the most intriguing sculptures of the Renaissance period. The bronze sculpture of David by Donatello can be seen here.

Tour the National Gallery of Umbria in Perugia

Tuscan and Umbrian paintings dating back to the 1200s can be seen here. The collection is located at the Palazzo dei Priori on the top floor. There are works by Piero della Francesco, Duccio, Fra Angelico and many others.

Venetian Paintings on Display at the Academy Gallery in Venice

See gorgeous Venetian paintings at one of Europe's best museums. The paintings date back to between the 13th and 18th centuries. There are hundreds of artworks by Carpaccio, Titian, Bellini and Tintoretto.

Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice

Peggy Guggenheim, a legendary arts patron, assembled this beautiful collection at an unfinished palazzo that's located along the Grand Canal. The collection is from the 20th century and features pieces by Braque, Moore, Picasso and others.

See Amazing Artwork at the Brera Picture Gallery in Milan

In Milan, the Brera Picture Gallery is one of the best places to view art. The gallery is in a palace from the 17th century and displays many paintings from the schools of Venice and Lombardy. Mantegna's Dead Christ and Carpaccio's St. Stephen Debating are both on display here.

See Sculptures from the Roman Empire at the National Archaeological Museum in Naples

The National Archaeological Museum is in a building that was once barracks for a Neapolitan cavalry in the 1500s. The building contains sculptures from the Roman Empire as well as items from the famous Herculaneum and Pompeii. Greco-Roman antiquities and Renaissance collections from the Farnese family are also on display.

Other Great Museums in Italy *Amedeo Lia Museum -- See great paintings from the 13th through 18th centuries. *The Archaeological Museum of Bologna -- Here are great Egyptian collections and items from the Etruscan period. *Galleria dell'Accademia -- Michelangelo's marble statue of David is located here. *Galleria Ricci Oddi di Piacenza -- This is a gallery of figurative art. *Il Giocattolo di Legno -- See exhibits of wooden toys children played with in the 19th and 20th centuries. *Institute and Museum of History of Science (Florence) -- See 5000 items from the Medici collection as well as the Lorenese collection. *Leonardo Da Vinci Museum -- Offers a comprehensive display of Da Vinci's work as well as an informative library. *Museo Bagatti Valsecchi -- This is a museum located in a home from the 19th century that displays art from the Renaissance period. *Museo di Capodimonte (Napoli) -- This museum displays beautiful art from the Farnese Collection. *Museo di Storia Naturale di Firenze -- Known as the Natural History Museum of Florence, there are many photos on the subjects of mineralogy, geology, anthropology and more. *Museo Teatrale alla Scala -- Come see displays that reveal facts about the best theater in the world. *San Matteo National Museum -- View lovely paintings dating back to the 12th through 15th centuries, and also sculptures dating back to the 14th through 15th centuries.

Research before you go to find the right museum in the Italian region you plan to visit. Choose a museum based on your personal likes. If you like paintings, there are plenty of museums that display mostly paintings. If you like models and sculptures, find a museum that specializes in those. Touring a museum can be a valuable addition to your Italy getaway!

Italy Travel Tips - Know Before You Go

Italy is a great country for tourism, family vacations and romance, but planning a trip there can be intimidating. You should learn as much as you can about flights, car rentals, hotels and dining before you plan the trip. Here are some great Italy travel tips to help make planning easier.

Italy Car Rentals (Car Hire)

If you're planning to rent or hire a car in Italy, there are some important things to remember. First, most cars in Italy are manual drive (not automatic), so make sure you or someone with you knows how to drive a manual shift car. Second, drivers in Italy can be aggressive and typically drive at high speeds on the Autostrada. This, along with the narrow streets in towns, might make you nervous. If you feel uncomfortable driving in a foreign country you might want to stay with tour buses, taxis and trolleys during your visit.

If renting a car, secure your rental before you go. You can do research online or by contacting travel agents to find out where reputable car rental services are in the city you plan to visit. You can also ensure that you get the best car hire price possible. There might be a car hire service at the airport when you arrive, but be sure in advance.

When selecting a rental car, make sure the car or van will be the right size for the number of people with you and also any baggage you might carry. If you have a baby or toddler, be sure a carrier or seat is available.

Licensing Requirements

If you live in the United States or Canada you won't need an International Driver's License to drive a rental car. However, if you're using a private car, you will need an International Driver's License.

Learn the Driving Laws of Italy

Wearing a seat belt is required in Italy, and cell phones may be used while driving if you have an earpiece and microphone or speaker. You will be fined if caught using a handheld phone while driving. Driving is in the right lane just like in the United States.

Headlights must be on at all times (day or night) while driving on the Tangenziale or the Autostrada, and headlights must be on during times of low visibility on all roadways.

You also need to know the types of roadways available in Italy. Here are names and descriptions of roadways. Autostrade (or Autostrada): Superhighways - Tolls are charged on many of these roads. Strade Statali: State Roads Strade Provinciali: Provincial Roads Strade Comunali: Local Roads

Quick Tips for Driving in Italy

Be prepared for narrow, winding and crowded roads while driving in Italy. There are often no lane markings, and traffic lights are usually few and far between. If traveling on the Autostrada, or superhighway, be prepared for very high speeds.

vIf driving in a rural area, pay attention to the speed limits and drive carefully as many of these roads will not have guardrails. If traveling in the north, be aware that fog can cause poor visibility, so take it slow and turn on your headlights or fog lights if available.

It's wise to research and learn the most common road signs before your trip, especially speed and danger signs.

Parking in Italy Parking is usually available on the right side of the road. Blue Zones or Zona Disco means limited parking times. You can obtain a parking disc for these zones at tourist offices and fuel stations. Green Zones are also limited parking zones for weekdays.

Currency in Italy

The Euro is now used as currency in Italy. When you arrive in Italy be sure to exchange some of your money or travellers checks for Euro currency so you'll have cash on hand. Not all places will accept travellers checks or credit cards. You can usually exchange for currency at hotels, some shops and foreign exchange offices in airports or railway stations.

Debit Cards and ATMs in Italy

Most establishments in major tourist areas will accept major credit cards. Logos will be posted of the credit cards accepted just like you would see in the United States or Canada.

ATMs in Italy are called Bancomat, and they are found in all major cities and most small towns. ATMs operate the same as they do elsewhere, except you'll be given a choice of language at the beginning of your transaction.

Dining and Hotel Bills

When dining out in Italy, remember that you must ask the waiter for the bill when you're ready to pay. You can also tip the waiter or waitress if the service was satisfactory. Your hotel bill should include state tax amounts and service charges automatically. When staying at a full service hotel, you can tip up to ten percent of your bill if you feel the service has been satisfactory.

Airports in Italy

The national airline in Italy is called Alitalia. There are many International airlines that fly into Italy from Australia, United States, Canada and Europe, and ticket prices vary tremendously. Check online or with a travel agency to find out which airline arrives at your planned destination. Secure your tickets early to ensure arriving on time and getting the best possible rate.

Below are some of the major airports in Italy and the services offered: *Rome: Fiumicino -- Located southwest of the city. Services such as car hire, outgoing duty-free shop, bank and restaurant are included. Ciampino -- A souvenir shop, cafe, duty-free shop and bank are included. Buses and taxis are available. *Bologna: G Marconi -- Located northwest of the city, and buses and taxis are available. *Florence: Amerigo Vespucci -- Located north of the city, and provides a bank, restaurant, duty-free facilities, buses and taxis to the city. *Genoa: Cristoforo Colombo, Sestri -- Provides duty-free services and buses. *Milan: Malpensa -- Located northwest of the city, and provides duty-free facilities. Linate -- Located east of the city, and provides duty-free facilities, bank, car hire, restaurant, taxis and buses. *Bergamo: Milano Orio al Serio -- Located east of Milan, and provides taxis and buses to Bergamo and Milan. *Naples: Capodichino -- Located north of the city, and provides great services, buses and taxis. *Pisa: Galileo Galilei -- Located northeast of the city, and provides duty-free facilities. *Palermo: Punta Raisi -- Located west of the city. *Turin: Citta di Torino -- Located northeast of the city, and provides bureaux de change services, restaurants, bars, buses, trains, taxis and duty-free shopping. *Venice: Marco Polo -- Located northwest of the city, and provides buses, taxis and good facilities. There are also water taxis that can transport you to San Marco.

Shopping Tips in Italy

If you're addicted to shopping, you'll love Italy! Italy offers some of the finest products in quality and style. Shopping in Rome, you'll find many shops and markets with everything from books to shoes to antiques. Beware of imitations, however, when shopping for antiques in any city. Thrift shopping at Rome's flea market is also a great choice if you're looking for bargains!

In Milan, you'll find elegant shops in Via Montenapoleone that reflect the city's industrial wealth, but prices will typically be high. In Venice, glassware and Venetian lace are popular items. Florence is known for its satin-finished jewelry called satinato and cameos.

If visiting southern Italy, you'll find many handmade items such as carpets, pottery, jewelry and wrought-iron items. There are even unique wood products in Calabria.

Are you a fan of classical music? Cremona in Lombardy is known for its gorgeous handmade violins. Castelfidardo in Marche has accordion factories, and is also known for the production of organs and guitars.

Looking for Italian fashions? Try Rome, Florence or Milan on for size. No matter where you shop, you'll find Italy shopping areas to be full of quality products.

Use these tips to plan your trip to Italy wisely. Traveling to Italy can be pleasant if you prepare before you go.

Family Tour of France: Two-Star Hotel Recommendations

If you're planning a trip to France with your family, you might feel overwhelmed with the hotel choices in France. There are hundreds (if not thousands) of hotels in every region of France, from small bed and breakfast inns to luxurious five-star hotels.

With a family tour, you probably want a hotel room that's affordable and has the right amount of space. That's why we've put together a list of hotels below that are "two-star." Two-star hotels are comfortable, but not fancy. They're also usually affordable without sacrificing the quality of service provided and cleanliness. Read below for some great hotel possibilities for your French vacation.

Two-Star Hotels in Paris, France

Hotel Monge

This hotel in Paris is located near Notre-Dame and Mouffetard in the Latin quarter. The hotel was recently renovated and provides comfort and first-class service. Internet connection is provided also.

Hotel Saint Pierre

Located in the Latin quarter, Hotel Saint Pierre is only a short walk to the colleges of arts and medicine, and just a quick drive to the Pantheon, Notre Dame and the Sorbonne. The hotel has 50 rooms, a comfortable lounging area and underground parking.

Hotel Flor Rivoli

This hotel sits beside the Louvre museum and is within walking distance of Tower Saint Jacques, where pilgrims assembled during the Middle Ages before departing to Santiago de Compostela.

Hotel la Serre

Located just a couple of minutes from the Eiffel Tower, Hotel la Serre provides easy access to the popular sites of Paris. Nearby are the Invalides, Chaillot Palace, Napoleon's grave and the Museum of Modern Arts. The Louvre, Rodin and Orsay museums are just a few minutes away. Hotel la Serre sits on a lovely pedestrian street.

Au Paris France Hotel

Au Paris France Hotel combines tradition from the early 1900s with modern conveniences such as satellite television, hair dryers and direct phone lines. It is located near the Opera and the Louvre museum, and also offers terrific shopping opportunities at nearby department stores. The atmosphere in and around the hotel is quiet and peaceful.

Central Hotel Paris

Central Hotel Paris is located near Saint Germain des Pres, business centers for philosophers, painters and writers. The hotel is also not far from the world renowned cathedral called Notre Dame de Paris, the Orsay museum and the Luxembourg Park.

Hotel Riviera

This hotel resides near the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysees. It offers a warm friendly atmosphere in the tourist and business area of Paris.

Hotel Charlemagne

Hotel Charlemagne is situated away from busy city life but close enough where you can still reach major tourist areas in just a few minutes. The hotel has a modern design and is large and air conditioned. Other Two-Star Hotels in Paris: *Hotel Eugenie *Hotel Perreyve *Hotel Excelsior *Hotel du Roule *Hotel Saint Dominique *A I Eiffel Rive Gauche *Hotel du College de France *Eiffel Nouvel Hotel *Hotel Cambronne Carladez *Hotel de I Quest *Hotel du Nil *Hotel du Parc *Hotel Au Venise *Grand Hotel du Bel Air *Hotel Keppler *Hotel de la Sorbonne

Hotel California in Bordeaux, France

Hotel California is a comfortable hotel that has 20 lovely rooms for guests. There are seven sound-proof studios, two seminar rooms, en suite bathrooms, satellite television and more. There is also a pizzeria where you can enjoy fresh pizzas every day during your stay. The hotel is located 100 miles from the train station at Saint Jean.

Hotel du Golf in Calais, France

Situated on the gorgeous Calais Beach, Hotel du Golf offers a great view of the ocean for a relaxing visit. Children under 12 stay for free, and each room comes with a kitchenette. The rooms also have direct-dial telephone, full baths, and a television with French and British channels. For longer stays, Hotel du Golf offers studio apartments, kitchenette included. The hotel is located only five minutes from the Channel Tunnel.

Hotel Lepante in Nice, France

Perfectly situated in central Nice, Hotel Lepante is a beautiful building that was designed at the turn of the century during the Belle Epoque period. The rooms are equipped with air conditioning, bathtub and shower, a phone, a safe for valuables and cable television. A bar and lounge are available, and the roof has a terrace. Hotel Lepante is located near the historic district of Nice where there are shopping areas, the beach, and also the famed Promenade des Anglais.

Hotel Buffa The charming Hotel Buffa is near Promenade des Anglais and offers a comfortable, quiet atmosphere.

Hotel Saint Etienne in Lourdes, France

Hotel Saint Etienne offers a friendly stay with a great view. Stay at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains in Lourdes where you can taste delicious local cuisine. Information about area attractions is also available.

Hotel Le Louisiane in Brittany, France

Near the bay of Morbihan, Quiberon, Auray and Carnac, Hotel Le Louisiane is a lovely place to settle down during your trip to Brittany, France. It's a great place to stop as you travel to the islands, and is within walking distance of the town of Vannes, where there are pedestrian streets and a port.

Hotel du Theatre in Lyon, France

Hotel du Theatre offers 24 comfortable rooms, and even triple rooms if you need a lot of space. The hotel is situated on the peninsula between Saint-Jean and Bellecour Place, and offers a view of Celestins Place and the theater.

Hotel Beausejour in Colmar, France

A beautiful home in Alsace where you can lodge during your journey. Traditional and innovative all in one. The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, and only a five-minute drive from the town center.

Hotel Mediterranee in Antibes, France

Hotel Mediterranee reveals breathtaking sand beaches and an adoring old town. It's located between Cannes and Nice on the French Riviera. During your stay you can take a short walk to the Medieval town, or take the high-speed train to Paris. The rooms are designed for comfort, with soundproof walls and air conditioning. It's a quiet stay with fabulous sight-seeing nearby.

More Two-Star Hotels in France (Note: The region or town is shown in parentheses.) *Hotel Arnaud Bernard (Toulouse) *Hotel d'Orsay (Toulouse) *Hotel Albert Ler (Toulouse) *Hotel Paradis (Nice) *Hotel Saint Paul (Lyon) *Hotel Britania (Lyon) *Hotel de la Mer (Blonville-Sur-Mer) *Hotel Pacific (Calais) *Hotel Armenonville (Nice) *Hotel L'Esterel (Cannes) *Hotel des Savoies (Lyon) *Hotel Comte de Nice (Nice) *Azurene Hotel Royal (Cannes)

Before planning your family vacation to France, decide which sights you would like to see and what type of vacation you want. Then you'll be able to choose the hotel that best fits with your plans. There are great hotels in just about every corner of France!

Touring the Museums of France

France has an amazing number of museums in every region. There are art museums as well as specialized museums of almost any field or subject. Tourists in France aren't the only ones who enjoy visiting these museums. This is also a favorite recreation among the French people! That's why it is wise for tourists to plan their visits to museums in advance if possible.

Paris Museums

Many of the world's most famous and popular museums are located in Paris. To avoid the crowds and long lines when visiting one of these museums, tourists can purchase a carte musee, or Museums and Monuments Card, in advance at the Paris Tourist Office. These cards provide unlimited entrance and priority access to as many as 65 locations in and around Paris.

List of Great Museums in France

Below we've put together a list of some great museums in France. Choose one from the region or city you plan to visit.

Recommended Museums in Paris

Centre Pompidou

Named after a former French President named Georges Pompidou, Centre Pompidou is a great place to explore modern architecture and arts. The museum was built in the 1970s and has become one of France's most popular attractions. Around 25,000 visitors tour the museum daily.

There are two floors in the museum that are dedicated to a collection of 20th century art from the National Museum of Modern Art. There is a rooftop restaurant with an excellent view of the city, also including a child's play area, dance area and a cybercafe.

Maison de Victor Hugo

A famous writer's residence in the early-to-mid 1800s, this museum sits in the southwest corner of Place des Vosges. Victor Hugo's life story is revealed through documents, paintings and drawings. Rooms throughout the museum are decorated to depict Hugo's various homes.

Musee du Louvre At the Musee du Louvre, visitors will discover more than 30,000 works of art. There are rooms filled with sculptures, paintings, Oriental, Egyptian and Greek antiquities, and even primitive art from the Americas, Africa, Australia and Asia. The famous Mona Lisa painting is housed here.

Musee National Picasso

Located in the heart of beautiful Paris, the Musee National Picasso reveals thousands of works by Picasso, from paintings to sculptures and engravings. Works by Cezanne and Matisse are also on display. His 1901 self-portrait and a piece called "The Kiss" from 1925 are two of his most famous works displayed at the museum.

Recommended Alsace Museums Animated Toy and Miniature Train Museum in Colmar The Animated Toy and Miniature Train Museum in Colmar is a fun place to see model trains, robots, puppets and more. Kids like it too! The museum is located inside a former movie theater.

The Unterlinden Museum

At this museum there are fine art collections, sculptures and even displays of weapons, a wine cellar and armour. The Retable d'Issenheim is the most famous work on display.

Mulhouse's Automobile Museum

Tourists can see around 500 vehicles that date back to the late 1800s. Mercedes, Ferrari, Porsche and Rolls-Royce are among the popular brands displayed.

Alsatian Museum of Strasbourg

The Alsatian traditions are on display with furniture, toys, kitchen items, folk art and more. The three houses where the items are displayed date back to the 16th century.

Musee d'Art Moderne et Contemporain

Tourists come here to see amazing modern art pieces from the movements of Fauvism, Impressionism, Dada and Symbolism. There are permanent and temporary exhibits. Recommended Museums in Brittany

Le Musee de la Tour Tanguy (or Tanguy Tower) in Brest

Visitors to this museum travel back in time to World War II to view dioramas that show the true state of the city of Brest during that time.

Musee de Prehistoire (or The Museum of Prehistory) in Carnac

This museum is great for history buffs! It describes the history of the Carnac area, dating back to the Palaeolithic era and following through the Middle Ages.

Musee de Chateau in Dinan

This museum offers displays of unique carved statues made of wood that date back to the 16th century. Tourists are able to discover the history of Dinan as they walk through the museum.

Musee de la Compagnie des Indes de Lorient in Port-Louis

This museum is located in a citadel from the 17th century and uses artifacts and displays to illustrate trade between India, China, the French East India Company, Africa and the New World.

Musee International du Long Cours Cap-Horniers in Saint-Malo

Maritime history of the Cape Horn route is revealed through displays here. Seafarers will love this museum. Museum Recommendations in Burgundy

Musee Lapidaire Autun

This museum has a lovely flower garden that is decorated with Gallo-Roman statues.

Musee Leblanc Duvernoy

There are displays of paintings and ornate tapestries for those who love colorful designs.

Former Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy (Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne) in Dijon

This museum was once a residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, and is now operating as a museum and civic center. Inside the palace is the Fine Arts Museum that shows Medieval sculptures and paintings, tombs of Burgundy aristocrats, and also an elegant kitchen. There's also a town hall to explore.

Jardin de l'Arquebuse and Musee

This is a beautiful park and botanical garden that has peaceful walking paths, streams and ponds, and even play areas for kids. There is an arboretum and the Museum of Natural History, which has great exhibits to explore.

Musee de la Moutarde

This museum is located in Dijon, which is the mustard capital of the world. It's also called the Musee Amora.

Maison du Livre et de L'Affiche in Champagne

This is a unique poster and book museum with 4,000 square meters of books and vintage and contemporary posters. It's a popular meeting place for people in the graphic arts profession.

Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux in Normandy

The Bayeux Tapestry is the most famous tapestry in the world and is on display here under a Plexiglass case. The tapestry is an embroidery on a band of linen that measures 20 inches wide and 231 feet long! It tells a story about the conquest by William the Conqueror.

Musee Jeanne-d'Arc

Joan of Arc was a heroine and martyr of France whose legacy is revealed at the Musee Jeanne-d'Arc. There are dioramas and wax sculptures that depict her life, starting at birth in Domremy and ending with her death in the Rouen Square. She was burned at the stake. There is also a research library at the museum.

Museums in Provence

Castre Museum in Cannes Located in the Castre Tower, this museum is part of a castle that was built by monks in the 11th century. Paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries are displayed as well as archaeological items. From the tower there's a lookout point that offers a fantastic view of the Cannes bay.

Recommended Museums in Nice

Fine Arts Museum

Art lovers come here to enjoy the fine art collections dated from the 18th to 20th centuries. Art from impressionism and post impressionism is on display, with pieces by Cheret, Boudin, Monet, Rodin and others.

Natural History Museum The Natural History Museum has a total of four rooms with each illustrating various subjects of natural history. Tourists can study mineralogy, fungi, birds and geology.

Naval Museum

Located in the Bellanda Tower, the Naval Museum offers a beautiful view of the sea and is considered a historic monument. Displays of ancient arms, boats, paintings and navigational instruments grab the interest of visitors each year.

Musee d'Histoire de Marseille

This museum offers exploration into the ancient town of Massalia. The town was founded by Greek sailors, and many archaeological explorations are still done in the gardens at the museum. Coins and pottery are among the displays.

Ile-de-France Museums

Musee de l'Histoire de France in Versailles

Tourists here are able to explore history by learning about the Revolution and the parliamentary process. There are many historic paintings and engravings.

Visit one of the many interesting museums in France to break the boredom during your travels. No matter what your likes, there's probably a museum that will interest you!