Any of the main cities in Normandy are easily accessible from Paris, as there are frequent services.
Normandy is the region of France located to the north west of Paris situated between the English Channel and Brittany. It was once controlled by Britain (though firmly in French hands since the 13th century save for a few British controlled Channel Islands off the coast), although there remains a Norman influence here that gives the region a slightly different cultural feel than other parts of France.
It is a mostly agricultural area where much of the country’s dairy is produced. Cattle breeding, cider production and fishing are also all important industries that help define this lush and beautiful region of France.
Bayeux Tapestry
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This small Norman city welcomes large numbers of tourists to see the immense embroidered cloth known to the French as “La Tapisserie de la Reine Mathilde”. It is 230 foot long and one of the largest and most detailed in the world depicting the events leading up to the Norman invasion in 1066.
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The town of Bayeux itself is also full of historical significance; being the first town liberated after D-Day and one of the few towns in the region to survive WWII rather unscathed, Bayeux has narrow streets crammed with wooden-framed Norman houses and has an impressive Gothic cathedral.
Attractions during Advent and Christmas
From 1st December 2009-15th January 2010, Mont St Michel hosts “Activities and Illuminations”, where the whole town is magically lit up.
Falaise hosts “Les Hivernales de Falaise” from 3rd-31st December 2009 with exhibitions, Christmas concerts, activities, street entertainment, Christmas market and fireworks.
The Creative Christmas Market in Evreux is available from 11th - 19th December 2009, with local arts and crafts including sculpture, jewellery, drawings, embroidery, decorations, as well as hats and clothing.
On the 16th of December, visitors can take a tour of the villages of Orne to see their special festive lights.
Charleroi Main Attractions - Charleroi Main Attractions
Bois du Cazier
This is the location of a mining disaster that took place in 1956 in which over 200 men of 12 different nationalities lost their lives.... Charleroi, Belgium
Glass Museum
This museum traces the history and origin of glass, the use of glass, decoration and its applications today. The remarkable collection of glass work covers the history of the material, one section is devoted to the technology of hollow and flat glass.... Charleroi, Belgium
Photography Museum
This museum covers the history of photography, showing different artistic movements along with the development and photographic technique.... Charleroi, Belgium
The Jules Destree
This museum highlights the approach to life and work, as a reflection of a man with a rich, multifaceted personality dating from the 19th century to the 20th century.... Charleroi, Belgium