Spring is here, so what’s all the fuss about? Spring is the ideal time to get away, to take weekend breaks in the countryside or city breaks in London and Paris, which are at their best during this season of renewal. Here we will take a closer look at everybody’s favourite season and investigate why we respond so positively to it.

Spring lies between the winter and the summer months and since ancient times has been a season closely associated with rebirth and renewal. Its beginning is marked by the spring equinox, a time when the equator is closest to the sun and the number of daytime hours is almost the same as the number of night time hours. This year that date was 20th March and spring will last until the first day of summer on June 20th, a date also known as the summer solstice or Midsummer Day. The word solstice means the day when the sun stands still, and it is the time of the longest day and shortest night.
Naturally spring is also associated with romantic love and is a very popular time for weddings. The term “honey moon” is associated with the moon that shines on the night of midsummer and it is supposed to be a time when newlywed couples were given gifts of mead, a drink made from fermented honey and thought to have aphrodisiac properties and to enhance both love and fertility.

This brings us back to Paris, a city very much associated with this season. It is a fact that Paris is at its very best in the spring. During the summer months it can become hot and dusty and overcrowded with the flocks of people who visit it, but in the spring it tends to be warm and welcoming and it is the perfect time to enjoy it before the summer crowds turn up. However don’t expect continual sunshine; there are frequent spring showers in Paris, so don’t forget your umbrella.
Paris is the perfect setting for a springtime romantic city break. Wander along the banks of the Seine and perhaps take a picnic for two, hire a boat and cruise down the river lingering underneath the famous arches of its many bridges, relax outside the famous Parisian cafes and restaurants, explore the wonderful and colourful parks and gardens, Paris is the ideal city for wandering around.

Visit Montmartre and allow one of the many street artists to paint your portraits, wander up to the sumit and visit Basilique du Sacré-Cœur which is one of the most romantic settings in the city and from it you can enjoy some of the most amazing views of the city you will find.

As the sun goes down enjoy the legendary Parisian night life in the trendy Oberkampf district  or at the more boisterous Bastille. Place Vendome is a favourite of the celebrity set and Marais is the gay centre with numerous gay clubs and bars.

Spring has arrived, so why not try Paris?

The Mediterranean Sea is huge – it covers over 1,000,000 square miles in area and is bordered by twenty-three countries in three of the seven continents.

With such a diversity of geography, cultures and architecture there are boundless possibilities to explore. Choose from the opulence of Monaco and Nice on the French Riviera to the exotic souks of Algeria and Tunisia, or from the British influence evident on the island of Minorca to classical architecture in Greece.

Favourites in Italy include the Pantheon, the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Michelangelo’s David in Florence and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The city of Istanbul in Turkey straddles Europe and Asia, with a confusion of cultures complementing and contrasting. The Ottoman past of the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia church and Topkapi Palace sit beside contemporary galleries and modern restaurants. The chic boutiques in the main shopping street of Istiklal Caddesi vie for custom with stallholders trading in the Grand Bazaar, the covered market established for more than 350 years.

From the exotic cities of Tangier, Casablanca and Marrakesh with their winding streets and fishing ports on the western edge of the Mediterranean to the pyramids of Egypt in the east, the North African coast has a wealth of choice to experience.

The Balearic Islands of Majorca and Ibiza are popular with younger holidaymakers who want a beach holiday combined with lively entertainment.

The choice of cruises from Southampton destined for the Mediterranean is nearly as great as the choice of destinations. Cruise deals which stop at several ports in the Mediterranean allow a wider experience than a static holiday can offer, some stopping only at eastern or western ports, while others visit countries on both coastlines.

Whichever Mediterranean destination is chosen, the climate, the beaches and the scenery promise a relaxing break in the sun.

Holiday villas in St Tropez come in all shapes and sizes, with price tags to match. From the simple villa to the marina-side palace, you’re bound to find something to suit your tastes.

St Tropez has been a hip location to holiday in since the 1950s and 60s, when the likes of Brigitte Bardot ‘discovered’ what had been a quiet fishing village before the war and made it the place to stay in the summer. As a result, the town quickly experienced an annual influx of tourists, including the rich and famous (and the yachting contingent, who were drawn by the annual regatta and the chance to showcase their boats to an appreciative public). A villa in St Tropez can cater to this up-market clientèle, and are likely to be out of reach of all but the wealthiest holidaymakers; in high season (July and August), when the area is at its most popular, you can easily expect to pay upwards of £10,000 for the biggest and best villas, which come with every amenity you could want to make them a home from home: pools, tennis courts, fully-equipped kitchens – even cooks, cleaners and concierges, should you wish.

However, villas in St Tropez don’t have to cost an arm and a leg, and many people manage to find something more to their liking and budget. This may be achieved simply by booking for earlier or later in the year; although this may not be possible for those with children, who are tied to the school holidays, if you have the flexibility to avoid the peak months, then prices will drop. Not only that, but it’s worth knowing which are the most expensive areas of the town;  anything from which you can see the famous clocktower , for example, is a prime location, and you will certainly end up paying for it. However, although this top placement might attract some people, others will prefer to stay somewhere quieter and away from the lively bustle that goes with the territory. In fact, if you are prepared to drive for a few minutes, then there are the villages in the immediate vicinity of St Tropez to consider, too.

Further afield, you might find something that’s the best of both worlds: a fully-equipped villa, with everything you need for a relaxing stay, but at a remove from the busyness and prices you’d expect in the most sought-after areas of St Tropez itself. In the little villages near to the town – Beauvallon, Gassin and Grimaud – you will be able to rent superb villas which are ‘close enough away’ from the famous town and its glorious beaches. If you are more interested in scenery and culture than sunbathing, then these may be an even better bet, since the villages are stand-alone communities with everything they need to function apart from the tourist industry (which is absolutely fundamental to St Tropez itself). Additionally, there are forests and vineyards to explore on leisurely walks, and other sporting and cultural highlights to while away your days. The quality of building in France is generally excellent, and you will by no means be compromising on what you can expect by casting your net a little wider.

Holiday villas in St Tropez can therefore be found for every type of vacation, whether you are planning to sun yourself on the beach and enjoy swimming in the warm blue waters of the Mediterranean, or exploring the surrounding villages and vineyards. There are, of course, constraints – high season and opting for the most popular areas of town being two factors that will add a huge amount to the cost of your break. However, it doesn’t take much work to find something to your taste and budget in or near St Tropez, even if you aren’t a member of the jet set who made it so popular 40 years ago.

Cannes, is located on the coast of the French Riviera, and is a cultured town that’s home to many lovely beaches and beautiful scenery. It started life as a small fishing village some one hundred and fifty years ago, but now is much more sophisticated, and is a place where many of Hollywood’s big names come each year, to join in with the annual Cannes Film Festival that takes place here every May.

The Hotel Martinez stands right at the centre of the Cote d’ Azur, and is ideally located on the La Croisette Promenade. Just a few blocks from the Palais des festivals, and facing the Bay of Cannes, this hotel has long been a meeting place for the stars.

This is one of the Riviera’s grandest hotels, and recent renovations have preserved all the elegance of the Roaring Twenties, while bringing it up to date on everything you could possibly want as a guest staying here. The new Penthouse apartments and Junior suites on the seventh floor are wonderfully elegant and offer truly spectacular views of the surrounding coast.

The hotel Martinez is rated as a 4 star deluxe hotel and boasts one of the largest private beaches on La Croisette with 400 sun lounges and a large pontoon available for its guests. Throughout the summer season, there are many water sport activities available including water skiing, surfing, wake boarding, parasailing, and excursions out to sea.

The hotel’s Givenchy spa offers a variety of treatments in private treatment cabins, and the 4 hand ylang ylang massage is one of their specialties. The spa is complemented by a swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna and solarium.

There are three restaurants here, La Palme d’Or, Le Relais, and Restaurant le Zplage. The most famous is the two Michelin star restaurant La Palme d’Or where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine of a highly inventive and daring nature. The dining area here is very much Art Deco in decoration including movie star portraits, ceiling mirrors, sun drenched palm tree and sea views. Le Relais serves international cuisine, and is located close to the L’Amiral piano bar and has an extending terrace to the poolside. Restaurant le Zplage is an open air restaurant and is situated on the hotels private beach. Here you can enjoy the sea views seated at fine teak wood tables under shady parasols.

Paris is synonymous with class and style, so it’s no surprise that the city has more than its fair share of luxury hotels.  With their grand architecture, sumptuous interior design and fabulous cuisine, Paris hotels are a fantastic setting for a special trip.  Here are some of the most impressive.

Le Meurice

The Meurice has welcomed travellers on this site since 1835.  It was always famous for its lavish entertainment and its guests have included Queen Victoria and Tchaikovsky.  The present building dates from 1905.  Each of its 160 bedrooms is opulently decorated in the style of Louis XVI.  The suites overlook the Tuileries Garden and have fantastic views of the Paris skyline.  The most spectacular is the Belle Etoile on the 7^th floor, offering a 360 degree view around all the sights from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower.  There’s 275 square metres of space, with a pantry and kitchen for a butler and personal chef.

Hôtel Champs Elysées Plaza

This hotel was built in 1909 in the classic Haussmann style – the cut stone buildings that are so typical of Paris.  For many years the building was reserved for the use of diplomats visiting the British and American embassies, which are nearby.  The luxury town house has 7 levels and just 35 guest rooms and suites.  Deluxe suites are up to 65 metres square and have views over the rue de Berri. They have a reception room and bedroom and an Art Deco bathroom.  During your stay you can appreciate the finest in French products – Hermès Welcome gifts, Ladurée Breakfasts, Dom Pérignon Champagne, Mariage Frères Teas.

Hotel Scribe Paris

This hotel was built in 1860 and was formerly home to the aristocratic Jockey Club.  Its 200 rooms and 13 suites are decorated in elegant Parisian style.  The Imperial Suite is 95 metres square and spread over 2 floors.  The spa has Turkish hammams and whirlpool baths, as well as beauty therapies and massages on offer.  The hotel’s gourmet restaurant features crystal chandeliers, graceful columns and a mezzanine library.

You can compare prices on Paris hotels near Metro stations at SubwayHotels.com.

St. Tropez in the south of France on the French Riviera is an elegant beach town that has been called “the playground to jetsetters, models, and millionaires”. In the 1920′s it attracted international well-known people from the world of fashion. Brigitte Bardot in the 1950′s popularized this beautiful resort with her films. Although now a retreat for the rich and famous, back in the 18th century it was a busy commercial port where three-masted ships were built.

Holiday villas in the St. Tropez region are luxurious and allow for relaxation as well as enjoyment of the nearby warm Mediterranean waters and high-quality golden beaches including spots for famous sunbathing. Water sports are plentiful, especially sailing, fishing, canoeing, windsurfing, jet bikes, power boats, and water skiing. The villas are near world-class restaurants, bars, a vibrant nightlife, and shops that are world famous. You can also enjoy national walking routes as well as the popular pastimes of cycling and riding.

There are all types of international restaurants as well as those that offer local cuisine. The Cafe de Paris is one of the trendiest restaurants with sushi, fresh sea catches, beef filet, chicken, and duck as its specialties in an atmosphere featuring red velour sofas and gold-framed mirrors. The Caprice des Deux is owned by three brothers who specialize in authentic cuisine such as duck comfit with rosemary and the classic creme brulee dessert. Chez Joseph is a small restaurant with local character. It is tucked away down a cobblestone street and features a glassed-in porch with a wonderful view of the old city. It is so popular that reservations are necessary.

The Quartier de la Ponche is the most beautiful section with its cobblestone streets, tall buildings, restaurants, shops, homes, and hotels.

The majestic 17th century Chapelle de la Misericorde is located in the old town and is amazing with its high stone walls capped by a tiled roof with swirls of rich blues, greens and golds with gold accents.

The 16th century hexagon-shaped Citadelle that once served as a defender now houses a naval museum and cultural events. Its main terrace overlooks the city and provides a spectacular view of the gulf.

St. Tropez plays a major role in modern art that inspired such painters as Bonnard, Matisse, Marquet and modern-day painters as well.

Each October features a regatta that draws many yachts to the area.

Nearby Sainte-Maxime has one of the finest golf courses, a similar international feel, more magnificent beaches, plus a casino and other entertainment.

The allure of Paris for a honeymoon or special anniversary trip is the height of romantic desire. The city is surrounded by hills and traversed east to west by the River Seine into the Right Bank and the Left Bank. It first came to prominence when Julius Caesar conquered it in 52 BC.

In addition to the superb hotels and world-class cuisine, there are numerous places to visit during the daytime hours to expand your Parisian experience.

The L’Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon as a symbol of the French victory and had its completion in 1836. It is situated at the center of place Charles de Gaulle that branches off into 12 different avenues. With the tomb of the unknown soldier at its base, the spectacular sculpture-adorned arch has a rooftop viewing platform and a small museum.

The Eiffel Tower is another historic site with magnificent views for miles, and the second level at sunset is the most recommended for taking photos.

The famous cathedral, Notre Dame, dates back to the 12th century with its Gothic architecture.

The world’s largest museum and a past royal palace is the Musee du Louvre (Louvre Museum), which is not only the home of the famous “Mona Lisa” but also contains a huge collection of antiques and art. Built in 1190, it became an art showcase in the 1600s. Leonardo de Vinci was appointed painter of the Royal Court in 1516, and in 1793 the Louvre was opened as a museum.

Paris Authentic, with its “Blue, White and Red”, gives a history of the city and offers a panoramic view of the above three sites as well as the Champs Elysees.

Versailles is an extravagant palace with lush gardens, lakes, guest houses, and stables. See the restored rooms, the Hall of Mirrors, and the crystal, golden, and hand-painted furnishings.

The Luxembourg Gardens, once available only to royalty, is now one of the most famous parks in Paris. You can come to just enjoy the beauty and the two elaborate fountains, or you can play tennis, sail a model boat, or see a puppet show.

You can experience wine tasting at the O Chateau in a former royal cellar near the Louvre. The tour and tastings of French wines and champagne include great anecdotes about French wine.

French dining is a leisurely event of great food, drink, and socializing. It is to be enjoyed as an appreciated sensual pleasure whether in the most expensive restaurant or in casual surroundings.