The perfect Paris vacation: a bit of chic, a bit of kitsch

(ARA) - The effect of Paris being a tourist mecca is twofold. On one hand, it caters to the tastes and needs of an international audience, and certain sites and experiences become stereotypically touristy. On the other, notoriously (and some would say justifiably) proud Parisians grasp even more tightly to their traditions and well-loved hidden spots. The truth is, the perfect trip to Paris includes a bit of both worlds.

Another truism is that Paris can be pricey, but you can save and splurge in turn and come up with a decent budget. Vacation packages to the City of Light are often a great deal, combining accommodations and airfare. You can search sites like Travelocity.com for your ideal flight times and browse through a plethora of Paris hotels.

Before you go, do a little research and make a list of the places that you want to visit. Then, once you're settled into your hotel, you can sling on your most stylish walking shoes and hit the streets. Here are some ideas for your must-see list that combine Paris chic and Paris kitsch.

Kitsch: The Eiffel Tower

Seeing the tower up close is a traveler's rite of passage, as the hordes of visitors attest. Still, it's hard not to get a kick out of seeing such a legendary landmark. For the full effect, climb the stairs or take the elevator up to the observation area.

Chic: Fontaine de Medicis

This long reflecting pool is capped at its far end by a grotto and a romantic sculpture of Acis and his beloved Galatea. The fountain itself is lovely, but more so are the surroundings: the canopy of trees that encloses it makes it one of the most atmospheric, though well-hidden spots in Paris.

Kitsch: Champs Elysees

The most famous thoroughfare in Paris is now more oriented toward travelers than locals, though they certainly do use it. The walk from the Grand Palais to the Arc de Triomphe is long and memorable, but use caution if you need to grab a snack or a drink on the way - prices can be exorbitant.

Chic: Boulevard St. Germain

There are some truly great walking streets in Paris, but a stroll down Boulevard St. Germain is hard to beat. Not only will you see typical shops filled with tempting goods, you'll be able to stop in to St-Germain-des-Pres, the oldest church in Paris, and take a few hours to rest and relax in famous cafes like Les Deux Magots.

When it comes to food in Paris, skip the kitsch and go straight for the chic - you'll get better prices and more for your money. Some ideas include: Pierre Herme, for flawless macaron cookies in a rainbow of colors and flavors; Moulin de la Vierge, for ideal baguettes baked the traditional way in a wood-fired oven; and for a quick, casual meal, stop into L'As du Fallafel, which perfectly illustrates Paris' sometimes hidden multi-cultural side.

Courtesy of ARAcontent