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| Long considered the paragon of style, Paris is one of the most glamorous cities in Europe. It is at once deeply traditional - a village-like metropolis whose inhabitants continue to be notorious for their hauteur - and famously cosmopolitan. While such contradictions and contrasts may be the reality of any city, they are the makings of Paris: consider the tiny lanes and alleyways of the Quartier Latin or Montmartre against the monumental vistas from the Louvre to La Défense; the multiplicity of street markets and old-fashioned pedestrian arcades against the giant underground commercial complexes of Montparnasse and Les Halles; or the aristocratic wealth of the grand quarters against the vibrant chaos of the poorer districts. |
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At times, Paris can feel inhumanly magnificent, the arrogance of its monuments encompassing the chilly pomp of the Panthéon, the industrial chic of the Eiffel Tower and the almost spiritual glasswork of the Louvre pyramid. Yet it also operates on a very human scale, with exquisite, secretive little nooks tucked away from the Grands Boulevards and very definite little communities revolving around games of boules and the local boulangerie and café.
In the great local tradition of the flâneur, or thoughtful boulevard-stroller, Paris is a wonderful city for aimless wandering. Relaxed quarters such as the vibrant Marais, elegant St-Germain and romantic Montmartre are ideal for street-browsing, shopping and café-sitting, and the city’s lack of open space is redeemed by beautiful formal gardens, by the pathways and pavements that run beside the River Seine, and by endless hidden or unexpected havens. And everywhere you go, historic landmark buildings and contemporary architectural wonders remind you of the city’s pride and grandeur - and stop you getting lost.
There are over 150 art galleries and museums in the city - few of them duds - and an uncounted number of cafés, brasseries and restaurants lining every street and boulevard. The variety of style and decor is hard to beat, ranging from ultra-modern fashion temples to traditional, mirrored palaces and from tiny bistrots where the emphasis is all on the cooking to bustling Vietnamese diners. After dark, the city’s theatres and concert halls host inventive and world-leading productions of theatre and dance, while many classical concerts take place in fine architectural settings, particularly chapels and churches. Above all, Paris is a real cinema capital, and the city’s vibrant cultural mix puts it at the forefront of the world music scene.
Cash Machines are available at the TGV / RER Train Station and in the Disney Village.
An Exchange Office is available in the Disney Village.
The weather in Paris in June is usually warm and sunny with daily temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25° C. Night temperatures may be however milder, ranging between 12°C to 16°C.
For international calls to France, dial the international code followed by 33 and the correspondent’s number (without the 0).
The local currency is the EURO (EUR/€). 1€ = 100 cents (of euros)
Electricity used in France is 220 Volts; its frequency is 60 Hz and the plugs have two male contact points. Plan to bring a transformer or adaptor for your electrical or electronic equipment using different voltage (i.e. USA, Canada).
Medical Emergencies (SAMU): 15
Police: 17
Firemen: 18
The above numbers apply when dialled from any public phone.
It is recommended that participants obtain adequate cover for travel, health and accident insurance before they depart from their countries. EphMRA and MCI as organisers cannot accept responsibility for personal injuries, or loss of, or damage to, private property belonging to the Conference participants and accompanying persons.
At “La Vallée Village”, shop in the open-air. Small houses, typical of the architecture of the Ile-de-France region, gather over 80 leading fashion and home ware brands.
Monday to Friday: 10.00 - 19.00
Saturday and bank holidays: 10.00 - 20.00
Sunday: 11.00 - 19.00
The majority of shops are open all day from 09.00 to 19.00, Monday to Saturday. Some smaller shops may close over lunchtime between midday and 14.00, or all day on Monday. Sundays and public holidays are the usual closing days, although there are some exceptions. During the week, the department stores have one late-night opening day, known as a “nocturne” until 21.00. Supermarkets are open at different times depending on the neighbourhood, everyday except Sunday, until 20.00, 21.00 or 22.00.
France follows Central European Time (CET) which is GMT +1 hour in winter and GMT + 2 in summer which will be applicable during the EphMRA Conference.
In France, all prices shown include tax and service (the latter is around 15% of the total price). However, if the service has been particularly good, you may wish to leave a tip in order to show your appreciation. As a general rule, the amount is 5 to 10% of the total bill.
France is part of the European Union. Visitors from the EU countries, Switzerland, the USA, Canada, New-Zealand, do not need a visa and can stay in France for 90 days. A valid passport is all you need to enter France. Check with the French Embassy or Consulate in your own country whether you need a visa.
Should you need a visa, please apply early enough to allow sufficient handling time by the authorities. If required, you may ask the Organising Secretariat (MCI Suisse SA) for an official letter of invitation (prior registration and payment to the Conference is mandatory). This letter will be emailed to you. If you require a personalised letter printed on original MCI letterhead and sent by courier, a fee of CHF 150,- per letter will be charged (including courier).
Please note that the Organisers do not undertake any obligation to pay any expenses incurred by supplying these letters. |
