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Hello there! I'm a young francophile who loves to wander around tiny towns as well as giant cities. I try to be a visitor instead of a tourist. On trips to unknown places, I let towns unravel themselves before my eyes. Oftentimes, they have more to say than what's in my guide book. Specialties: Searching French train schedules. Taking the wrong train, leaving me five hours away from my intended destination. Convincing train conductors to let me board trains even though I don't have reservations. Loving Aix-en-Provence. Saving money in Paris. Appreciating London's contributions to Western culture in 20 hours. If you have any questions about France or trains, feel free to post a thread on the Student Universe forums or send a message to "politicslovr."

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Beyond Paris - Part II

March 9th, 2008 • Related • Filed Under

Strasbourg (Alsace)

Our next stop beyond Paris is in Alsace, a region made famous for territorial quarrels between France and Germany.

Welcome to Strasbourg!

Treasured for its mixed culture, this quiet town hosts the European Parliament. In Strasbourg, you will see French shops built in the German architectural style. Be prepared to hear train announcements in German, even in Paris Gare de l’Est. Are you in Germany or France? You won’t be able to decide.

Getting there: Use the brand-spanking new TGV Est line. Paris-Strasbourg takes under two and a half hours. It makes a great day trip from Paris. After exiting the Strasbourg station, say to yourself: I’m…in a glass orb!
Enjoying it: Walk around. It’s a pretty town. See the single-spired cathedral in the center of town. It’s famous for its giant…clock?
Upside: Has a cute river flowing through it.
Downside: Never have I seen/heard so much German in my life! Just kidding: German is almost as good as French!
How long should you stay?:1 day.
What it looks like:

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