T R A V E L

Romance in Paris on a Budget (published Frugal Monkey December 2011)

Paris is the known as the city of love, but you won't feel as smitten once you empty out your bank account. If you want to keep the love affair alive skip the escargots and in-room massages and try some of our romantic, and budget-friendly, Parisian experiences.

The Bois de Boulonge is a green oasis hidden on the western outskirts of the city. Its parklands are perfect for a picnic lunch, and woodlands ideal for exploring. You can also hire a row boat for just a few Euros and wile away the hours on the water.

For more greenery, stop off at Luxembourg Gardens. The 25-hectare space can get a bit crowded when it's warm, but it's always relaxing to admire the flowers and fountains. Once you've worked up an appetite visit one of the left bank's chic cafes for coffee and cake.

Resist the temptation to jump on one of the luxury boats that sail the Seine. You'll have almost as fun staying on dry land and walking by the river's banks. Make sure you visit near twilight, to see the mood enhancing sunset and twinkling city lights.

The Ile Saint Louis near Notre Dame is another great spot for walking. This tiny island is home to charming boutique stores, great restaurants, and hip nightclubs. If you can't afford to splash out on a meal you can fill the gap with Berthillon, an ice cream treat that's not found anywhere else in the world.

The Sacre Coeur Basilica must be romantic; its name means sacred heart after all! The views from the top of this beautiful 19th century building should be enough to set anyone's heart fluttering. Visiting around lunchtime gives you an excellent opportunity to stop off at Montmartre when you're done. This village's quaint cafes serve up simple but delicious food for less than you'd pay in the capital.

A night at the opera or theater is quintessentially French, but also expensive. For a more frugal option consider an evening at the movies. Paris has plenty of historic movie theaters which take you back to Hollywood's golden age. In summer you can also catch a romantic open-air screening of a cult classic or new blockbuster at the Parc de la Villette.

And of course no article about Paris' most romantic parts would be complete without mentioning the Eiffel Tower. Sure it's clich�d and overexposed, but you'll forget your inner cynic when you�re taking in the views. You can save money by opting for the stairs over the lift and choosing to stop at the second floor. Visit around sunset and marvel at the views as Paris changes from day to night.