When planning a cruise trip, you need to know the departing docks along with whether it is a round trip! If you are someone who is planning to depart from Galveston, let me share with you some of the best cruises out of Galveston.
When you visit different destinations when going to the Caribbeans, such as Cancun, Cozumel, Europe, Alaska, and others. These places are perfect for you if you love diverse and vibrant cultures along with making your lifetime memories.
Let’s explore more about the different places when you book some of these cruises! Many of these places are some of the best places to visit in February. Let me share with them some of the coolest plans that you can make when booking these cruises.
Here is a List of Best Cruises Out of Galveston for 2025
Before you book your cruise, let me share with you some of the key factors that influence you to make the decision. If you are looking for a high-end experience, you can book one of the best cruises out of Galveston!
You can visit beautiful exotic places such as the Costa Maya, Cozumel, and other Caribbean destinations after catching the best cruises out of Galveston. Be it for adventure, exhilaration, or relaxation, you can book cruises for your trip!
Let me tell you the right time when you can catch the best cruises out of Galveston! You can either go in early spring or late winter. During these trips, you will enjoy the places, the people, and the culture. This can be one of the best cruises for couples!
Carnival Cruise Lines
If you are planning to go on a cruise to enjoy yourself, party, and have fun, this is the one for you. With both family-friendly activities and adult activities available on board, you cannot go wrong with this lively cruise.
Furthermore, this cruise line is also perfect for those who are looking for a shorter vacation period, probably somewhere between 3 to 5 days of traveling. Additionally, the western Caribbean is the perfect place to visit when you are booking one of the best cruises out of Galveston.
Simultaneously, the cruise line is known for its onboard experiences when departing from Galveston. It is synonymous with vibrant experiences, festivities, and fun helping you create a lifetime of memories.
Disney Magic
The cruise line, Disney Magic is perfect if you are traveling with your family! With kids accompanying you, the Disney ship will entertain young children who are Disney fans. It is owned by the subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, bringing together vacation and entertainment.
The first vessel on the cruise line was Disney Magic and later, other ships were added such as the Disney Dream, Disney Treasure, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish. The trips are mostly four to six-night-long voyages departing from Galveston to various places such as Puerto Rico, San Juan, and others.
You get various amenities such as dining cuisine inspired by local food, culture, and people. One of the top-ranking ships, the Disney Magic cruise takes you to various places such as Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Port Canaveral, and others.
Princess Cruises
If you are looking for an adult experience, just relaxing and having fun, this is the cruise that departs from Galveston. You can discover a different you when you are on this cruise, especially with so much going on in our daily lives.
You will feel like you are in your stylish retreat, either relaxing or experiencing new adventures. The trip is mostly a seven-day trip taking on one of the most beautiful and exotic western Caribbean. If you are an adventurous type of person, you can go rock climbing walls along with surf simulation.
There are traditional comforts for couples in this couple line with various activities along with modern innovations. The Princess Cruises is one of the best cruises out of Galveston in 2025, you will make a lifetime of memories when on it.
Night Western Caribbean
When you are planning to go on a cruise to the western Caribbean, choose this cruise line because it is one of the best cruises out of Galveston. On a four-night trip, you will board the Voyager of the Seas ship with several amenities available on board.
You will be experiencing crystal-clear waters with sun-drenched beaches when on this cruise trip. Furthermore, there are vibrant cultures that influence the dining experiences of the ship along with the activities and services available on board and when the cruise docks at the port.
Additionally, every port for you will bring new experiences with beautiful exotic places to check out. You can remember these memories for a lifetime! Easily, one of the best Caribbean cruises taking you to an experience for a lifetime.
Norwegian Cruise Line
The cruise line offers one of the best trips with its Norwegian Prima ship across Northern Europe, Alaska, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. Galveston is the home port of this cruise line and once it commences from the port, it takes you across a beautiful journey.
There are beautiful ports such as Costa Maya creating a perfect itinerary for you, both on-board and off-board experiences. There are several other experiences for children if you are going with your family.
Additionally, you can have an amazing couple experience if you are planning to make a special trip. There are also some opportunities for you if you have plans to travel alone because, in recent times, there are individual cabins and suites for such travelers.
Carnival Breeze
A dream-class cruise ship, I am vouching for Carnival Breeze ship one of the best cruises out of Galveston. The cruise line has a variety of cabins where you get all the first-class amenities along with maintaining a quality and talented crew. Additionally, you can also highlight it as one of the best cruises for families!
There are several ships such as Carnival Breeze, Carnival Breeze, Carnival Valor, and others. You will get 24-hour services on these ships as you visit beautiful exotic locations such as Miami, Spain, Venice, Barcelona, and others.
You will get a water park on board the ship along with other activities such as a ropes course! There are several other activities such as mini-golf, dancing sessions, and movie dates. Furthermore, there is a buffet, eateries and additionally, and two main dining rooms for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
When the cruise docks at various ports, you can visit various places such as national parks, museums, and restaurants. Let’s not forget shopping at the local markets, creating a perfect opportunity for memories.
Regal Princess
The Royal-class cruise ship will take you to some of the most exotic places in the world. You can travel to Tahiti, New England, Asia, Mexico, Australia, and others if you book Regal Princess for your cruise vacation.
Additionally, there are basketball court, a laser shooting range, and a game lounge. If you and your partner are people who love adventure when on vacation, this is your place to be. Simultaneously, you can also make plans when the ship docks at the port.
There is a delicious itinerary based on local culture and food concerning your lunch and dinner plans. You can book your cruise whether with your family, your partner or individually traveling to beautiful places!
Royal Caribbean
The large ships of the Royal Caribbean like Allure of the Seas are just perfect for families! With its extensive activities, both outdoor and ship-based, it creates an unforgettable experience for you and your family members.
There are also several amenities available that you can do with your partners or family members. Places you can visit if you book one of the best cruises out of Galveston this year such as Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and others. These places are also some of the best places to travel with kids!
Additionally, these places are beautiful along with the delicious meals you get offered on the cruise. Furthermore, there are beautiful lodgings on the ship and outdoor entertainment for adults and children.
Let’s Go on a Trip…
To wrap up, some of the best cruises out of Galveston offer you a variety of experiences such as indoor and outdoor entertainment, delicious cuisines, and lodgings. The cruises are beautiful when it comes to creating the whole travel package.
You can comment on which one is your favorite or have you made any plans to book one of these cruises soon? Additionally, also let me know if I have missed any cruises that depart from Galveston, and it is quite cool.
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
Spain, with its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, tantalizing food, and picturesque landscapes, is a country that captures the heart of every traveler. If it's your first time visiting, the prospect can be both exciting and a little daunting. How do you navigate this unfamiliar yet enchanting territory?
Don't worry. These five insider tips are just what you need to make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. Here's what you should keep in mind.
1 - Understand Spanish Culture
Familiarize yourself with Spanish customs and norms before your trip. Spanish people are known for their laid-back lifestyle and love for socializing. In Spain, meal times are later than what you might be used to; lunch typically starts at 2 p.m., and dinner at 9 p.m. or later.
Siestas are a real thing, with many shops closing in the afternoon for a few hours. The nightlife is vibrant and starts late. And one more thing: remember the Spanish love for celebrations and festivals — you might just find one happening during your visit!
2 - Explore Iconic Landmarks
Spain is rich in history and boasts of numerous World Heritage sites. From the royal palaces in Madrid, the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Alhambra in Granada, to the historic old town of Toledo, there's a lot to see.
You should — of course — prioritize your itinerary according to your interests and time constraints, but don't miss out on these marvels.
3 - Discover Hidden Gems
While tourist hotspots are great, the real charm of Spain lies in its hidden corners. Venture off the beaten path and explore local markets, try a cooking class, take a flamenco lesson, or visit a local vineyard. These unique experiences will give you a taste of authentic Spanish life.
If you're documenting the trip, going off the beaten path also gives you a chance to capture moments and sights that most travelers never get to experience. There's plenty of good public transportation in Spain, but if you'd like to explore, it can be smart to rent a car or charter a Yacht. The latter is easier than you might think, as the SeekSail website shows.
4 - Optimize Your Itinerary
Don't make the mistake of cramming too much into your itinerary. Spain is a country to be savored. Traveling between cities can be time-consuming, so it's better to explore a few places thoroughly rather than trying to see them all.
Remember to plan your day around the Spanish rhythm. You should take advantage of the late morning to explore, relax during the siesta hours, and soak in the nightlife.
5 - Pack Appropriately
Spanish weather can be quite variable. Summers can be scorching hot, while winters are cold, especially in the north. Pack light, breathable clothing for summer and layers for winter. Don't forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you'll be doing!
Remember, traveling is all about immersing yourself in the local culture and stepping out of your comfort zone. Use these tips to truly engage with Spain's captivating charm. And who knows, you might even come back home with a touch of the Spanish zest for life!
Read Also:
Living In Sunny Spain As Digital Nomads
The 5 Most Historically Significant Buildings
5 Ideas For Wine Tours In Barcelona- Make It Happen
I was relaxing after a bath at the Kuang Si Falls and suddenly, an electric blue dragonfly came to visit me. It sat on my knees for some time, and then came another. Within 15 minutes or so, I spotted hundreds of dragonflies making the trees appear blue.
I was immediately transported to my childhood days when chasing a dragonfly or finding one with the most unique colors was a fun game. Suddenly, my guide called me and said, “Let me show you something unique.” He took me to the “Do Not Enter” board.
He asked, “Want to go there? There is a secret pool.” I said, “Why not?” I found out a milky-blue calm basin. Local teenagers were hanging out there, and they were eating sticky rice from banana leaves. They offered us some, and it was the best sticky rice I ever tasted.
Food in Luang Prabang is magical, just as is the Mekong River, temples, and Buddhist culture here.
While coming back, my guide handed me a plastic bottle. I asked him, “What to do with it?” He said, “Fill the bottle and take the water home. It carries blessings.”
Then, as I came down, I suddenly smelled the aroma of lemongrass and grilled chicken. I insisted. So, my guide had to take me to the local stalls. I had the best skewers there, and they tasted even better as I was hungry after hiking to the waterfall and having a bath.
The skewers were a little black on the edges, and that burnt flavor did the trick for me. Further, the aunty selling the skewers asked me to try the chili dip she had made. It was Fire and tears rolled down my face. She was so embarrassed! She gave me coconut pancakes to eat.
My visit to the waterfalls in Luang Prabang is filled with such amazing stories. In this blog, I will share them and talk about the best waterfalls in Luang Prabang, how to reach them, their spiritual significance, opening hours, entry fee, and everything you need to know.
What Are The Best Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?
Recently, Travel + Leisure has picked the Kuang Si waterfall as one of the 21 most beautiful waterfalls in the world in 2025. This recognition further enhances Laos's international tourism profile.
It is just an hour’s drive from Luang Prabang, and its stunning blue waters and turquoise pools formed with it, create the most dramatic landscape.
However, Kuang Si is not the only waterfall you will find in Luang Prabang. You must also explore the Tad Sae Waterfall, Tad Thong Waterfall, Hoi Khua Waterfall, and Dheva Waterfall.
1. Kuang Si Waterfall
When I reached Kuang Si waterfall, I heard the monks' chants from the nearby Buddhist temple. Within an hour, the scenario changed completely, and the roar was so much that I could not hear my own voice.
Also, on my way back, my tuk-tuk driver was saying, “The old Kuang Si was way wilder, Ma’am. Its water has blessings.”
How To Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?
Taking a tuk-tuk or a bike is the best way to reach Kuang Si Waterfalls from Luang Prabang. It is located 30 km south of Luang Prabang. The journey takes around 45 minutes.
Here are the estimated costs of transport options and the expenses.
Mode of TransportEstimated CostTuk-tukAround 60000 KIPMinivan Tour250.000 KIP/ Per GroupMotorbike Rental100,000 KIP/dayPrivate Car250,000–300,000 KIP
What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Kuang Si Waterfall?
The waterfall remains accessible from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. For the locals, the ticket price is Laotian 20,000k/person. The ticket is free for visitors below 12 years of age. Furthermore, for foreigners, the ticket price is 60,000k/person.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Kuang Si waterfall?
The dry season from November to May is the best time to visit Kuang Si waterfall. These months are ideal for swimming in the clear turquoise water of the pools. You can also go hiking and explore the nearby bear rescue center and butterfly park in these months.
Furthermore, these months are ideal for photo opportunities.
However, if you want a quieter experience, June to October is the ideal season. Fewer tourists visit the waterfall during these months. However, the water becomes muddy due to heavy rainfall.
Local people believe that this water carries power.
What To Expect At Kuang Si Waterfall?
Swimming pools
Bear Rescue Centre
Jungle trails
Picnic areas
You cannot walk around the pools or waterfall with your shirts off or in bikinis. It is considered crude and does not go well with the local culture.
2. Tad Sae Waterfall
With an elephant park nearby, Tad Sae Waterfall is a quieter alternative to the Kuang Si Waterfall. The decks crisscrossing the water make the visual all the more dramatic.
How To Visit Tad Sae Waterfall In Luang Prabang?
To visit the Tad Sae Waterfall, you have to take a short trip out of town. Then, you need to take a trip down the river in a traditional long boat.
It is a 14 km trip from the town to the long boat launch area. Then, the boat ride is 8 minutes long. The cost of the tuk-tuk ride is around 150.000 kip.
Furthermore, the boat ride will cost around 25,000-35,000.
What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Tad Sae Waterfall?
The ticket price for Tad Sael waterfall is Laotian 15,000 KIP for locals. Tickets are free for children under 8 years old. For foreigners, the ticket price is 30000 KIP.
The waterfall remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Tad Sae Waterfall?
August to October is the best time to visit the Tad Sae waterfall. From February to July, the waterfall remains almost dry.
What To Expect At Tad Sae Waterfall?
The boat ride across the Nam Khan River felt like a time-travel for me. The Nam Khan river cuts through fog and jungle that smells like lemongrass and diesel. I also saw kids paddling in plastic tubs, laughing at me while my longtail boat sputters by.
Another fun thing I noticed is the monkeys near the top pools. Locals believe that these monkeys were the spirits who guarded the waterfall. Also, I saw some local visitors leaving a few grains of sticky rice on the rocks for good luck.
Tad Sae Waterfall is great for family picnics and boat rides.
3. Tad Thong Waterfall
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Кирилл Дерябин (@deryabinkirill)
The spring-fed Tad Thong waterfall emerged before my eyes after a 45-minute jungle walk. The walk starts from a point, around 6 km outside Luang Prabang.
Today, it stands in almost abandoned condition, and the hiking trails and bridges are nonexistent in several places.
How To Visit Tad Thong Waterfall In Luang Prabang?
You can easily reach the hiking starting point by tuk-tuk, car, or bike. The tuk-tuk price will be around 800,000 KIP.
What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Tad Thong Waterfall?
The Tad Thong Waterfall remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is around 20000 KIP per person.
What Is The Best Time To Visit The Tad Thong Waterfall?
From July to January, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the Tad Thong Waterfall. The waterfall remains full and active in these months, and you can photograph the most dramatic visuals.
What To Expect At Tad Thong Waterfall?
Tad Thong is not as massive as Tad Se, nor does it have the grandeur of the Kuang Si Waterfall. However, visiting Tad Thong felt like finding a precious old book under a heap of dust.
Throughout the jungle walk, butterflies kept fluttering around, and the silence echoed through the rocks, making me feel a little cold after some time.
Lesser-Known Waterfalls: The Hidden Gems Of Luang Prabang
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bui Nhat Quang (@eziography__)
Located near the Green Jungle Park, Hoi Khua Waterfall is a powerful waterfall with a height of 100 meters. Along with swimming in the crystal clear pool formed by the waterfall, you can also relax inside the open-air huts at the Green Jungle Park.
Hoi Khua Waterfall also has an interesting lore associated with it. It is said that locals once took shelter behind this waterfall to protect themselves from the approaching soldiers. However, what happened to them is a mystery to date.
Are The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang Accessible? Summarizing The Accessibility Rating Of The Waterfalls
Have a look at the table below to see which waterfalls are accessible and which are not.
WaterfallWheelchair AccessStairsSuitable for KidsKuang Si✅Moderate✅Tad Sae❌ (boat only)Few✅Tad Thong✅Minimal✅Hoi Khua✅Flat terrain✅
What Is The Cultural And Spiritual Significance Of The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?
The waterfalls in Luang Prabang have many fascinating stories and secrets. I am sharing a few as I heard from my local guide and a Kuang Si waterfall ranger.
1. The Golden Deer Legend Of Kuang Si Waterfalls
Kuang Si in the local language means (Kuang) Deer and Si (Dig). Stories have it that a wise man chose this spot and started digging into the earth to summon water. A golden deer made its home beneath the rock where the waterfalls flow now.
The story suggests a harmonious bond between humans and animals. Furthermore, the golden deer is a common character in Southeast Asian spiritual and religious stories. It has a vital role to play in the Ramayana, and we get the mention of the golden deer many times in the stories about the previous lives of Lord Buddha.
In addition, the story has given the waterfall a distinct cultural identity cherished by the locals. So, today, the Kuang Si Waterfall is more than a waterfall with a grand physical beauty.
Mr. Boun, a Kuang Si Park Ranger, told me, “We protect the forest and teach kids about the golden deer legend. Kuang Si is sacred to us.”
2. Waterfalls In General Have A Connection With Buddhism
Waterfalls in Luang Prabang are mostly located near the temples. The water from these falls is also used in cleansing rituals conducted by temples and monks.
Furthermore, offerings are made to these waterfalls during Pi Mai Lao or the Lao New Year.
3. Bear Rescue Center’s Cultural Role
The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is more than a tourist attraction in Luang Prabang. It is an important center for the implementation and education of the local conservation efforts. The center also raises awareness about illegal wildlife trade.
Furthermore, many locals consider black bears sacred.
4. Butterfly Park Near Kuang Si
You cannot miss the Butterfly Park located within walking distance of the Kuang Si waterfall. This park is peaceful with colorful butterflies fluttering around.
Butterflies have deep symbolism in Buddhism. These lively creatures teach us the art of letting go and how we can evolve and transform.
5. Caves Behind the Falls
The hidden caves behind the upper tier of the Kuang Si Waterfalls are a telltale of the rich geological history of the region. These caves are missed by most visitors. So, these are ideal for a short meditation period or spending some moments of introspection.
Cultural Etiquette Tips For Foreigners Visiting Luang Prabang Waterfalls
Some areas and pools near the waterfalls are considered sacred, and they are reserved for religious and spiritual activities. Conde Nast Traveller says, “Luang Prabang’s waterfalls offer a spiritual escape into nature.”
So, swimming or access to those areas is not allowed. So, you have to adhere to these norms.
There are many other dos and don’ts you need to follow while exploring the waterfalls of Luang Prabang.
Dos ✅Don’ts ❌• Dress Modestly.• Wear a sarong or a towel over your swimsuit when walking around. • Seek permission from the locals before photographing them. • If a sign says “No Swimming” or “Do Not Enter,” respect it. These rules often protect sacred zones, wildlife, or fragile ecosystems.• Locals value quiet and respectful behavior, especially around sacred sites. Ensure children don’t climb on statues, splash excessively, or disturb wildlife.• If invited to join a blessing or offering ceremony, observe first, follow others’ lead, and avoid interrupting or asking too many questions during the ritual.• Using shampoos or soaps while bathing in the natural pools. • Touching the monks or offering them money directly. • Playing loud music or expecting a party vibe at the waterfalls. Waterfalls are often used for meditation, rituals, and family gatherings.• Littering is deeply frowned upon. Waterfalls are natural and spiritual spaces, and locals expect visitors to treat them with reverence.
Secrets And Lesser-Known Facts You Did Not Know About Luang Prabang Waterfalls
The turquoise color of Kuang Si’s pools comes from the calcium carbonate particles of the limestone rocks. These particles reflect sunlight. Thus, create the iconic blue shade.
This turquoise blue color looks the most beautiful during the dry season.
Also, locals often bring picnic baskets and spend entire afternoons at waterfalls. Vendors near Kuang Si sell grilled chicken, sticky rice, and jaew bong for this purpose. It’s a cultural experience and the locals are welcoming enough to often ask the tourists to join them in.
Food And Dining Near The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang
You can visit the following areas for food and dining near the waterfall areas.
AreaFood And Dining SpotsLocationKuang Si AreaKuang Si Kitchen and ResortClick HereTad Sae AreaMainland StallsLocal restaurants in the mainland boat landingTad Thong AreaThe Living Land FarmClick Here
What Are The Photography Tips For Visiting The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?
The beautiful waterfalls of Luang Prabang are ideal for photography, and they are quite popular on social media. You need to keep in mind the following instructions for photography at these waterfalls.
Best TimeGears RequiredInstagram Spots • Daily: Golden Hour: 7:00–8:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM• Annually: Rainy Season• Wide-angle lens• Tripod for long exposure• ND filter for silky water effect• Kuang Si’s top tier• Bamboo bridge near Tad Sae• Jungle trail at Tad Thong
So, visit the Luang Prabang waterfalls and have the best moments exploring the mighty cascades and soaking in their cultural and spiritual vibe.
Luang Prabang Waterfall Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang waterfall guide.
1. Can I Swim In Kuang Si Falls? Yes, you can swim in the designated pools of Kuang Si Falls and other waterfalls. However, some pools are reserved for spiritual and religious activities. So, swimming is not allowed there. 2. Are There Lockers Or Changing Rooms? Yes, there are changing rooms near the Kuang Si waterfall entrance. However, you will not get a locker. You have to carry a dry bag and keep your valuables there, or if you are traveling in a group, you can enjoy the swim in turns. 3. Is Tad Sae Open Year-Round? No, the Tad Sae waterfall is not open year-round. August to November, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the waterfall. It does not have water in the dry season (February to July).
Paris is the land of multiple World Heritage Sites, such as the Eiffel Tower and Château de Versailles and many other structures showing the excellence of French architecture. So, there is no wonder that Paris is transforming historical sites into Olympic venues.
However, there are multidimensional aspects behind choosing these important sites or places of tourist attractions as Olympic venues. Of course, it’s a brilliant move to boost tourism in the “World’s Most Powerful City Destination.” The Travel and Tourism Sector of Paris was worth a whopping $36BN USD in 2022.
Further, choosing these sites as Olympic venues has a sustainability aspect. It’s an endeavor to reduce the carbon footprint drastically and make the Paris Olympics the “Greenest Olympics” ever.
Are you traveling to Paris and have plans to catch up on the Olympic events? Get your travel plan right by knowing the historical places to visit, why they are significant travel destinations, and how choosing them as Olympic venues is a sustainable move.
Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues (Make Changes In Your Travel Plans)
https://www.instagram.com/p/C95mF-atRPK/?img_index=1
Various historical sites in Paris have become the stage for gala Olympic events. So, know the historical places to visit if you are traveling to Paris now and want to enjoy the games and the history of the iconic city altogether.
Here, you will first see a table mentioning the historical venues and the Olympic events that will take place there. Later, you will find brief descriptions of the historical importance of these places. 1
Historical Site Olympic 2024 Event The Seine River The Olympics Opening Ceremony Men’s Marathon Swimming Competition (Tentatively on 8th and 9th August 2024 After Postponement) Eiffel Tower Stadium Beach Volleyball and Blind Football Pont Alexandre III Triathlon, Para triathlon, Swimming Marathon, and Individual Cycling Time Trials The Grand Palais Taekwondo and Fencing Château de Versailles Equestrian events from July 27th to August 11th and from September 3rd to 7th, 2024 The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92) Field Hockey Games
It All Begins On The Seine River With The Opening Ceremony
Best Time To Visit The Seine River: June-August
The 2024 Olympics has seen the most unusual opening ceremony held on the Seine River. The river is named after Sequana, a Celtic Goddess.
Further, this river has been an important bearer of French culture, identity, and life. l'école de Honfleur, one of the most prominent impressionist movements in France, was inspired by this river.
Also, as you take a boat ride in this river, you can see the most iconic monuments in the city. Looking at the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum is surely going to be a lifetime experience for you. The Sainte Chapelle and Cathedral of Notre Dame are other significant pieces of architecture that can be seen from the river.
The Eiffel Tower Stadium
https://www.instagram.com/olympics/reel/C9SCB2DCNrt/
Best Season To Visit The Eiffel Tower Stadium: June to September
Are you looking for “Paris tourist sites Olympics 2024?” Visit the Eiffel Tower Stadium on the Champ-de-Mars. Beach volleyball games at this venue are already gathering a lot of attention, with tourists finding the place “Instagrammable.”
The Eiffel Tower is the stadium and is often interpreted as the tangible form of the human desire to reach the sky. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, and today it is the most visited “paid monument” in the world.
Pont Alexandre III
Best Season to Visit: September to April
Pont Alexandre III is a bridge named after Russian Tsar Alexandre III, and it celebrates the historic alliance between Russia and France. This year, the bridge will be entering its 125th year as it was built between 1896 and 1900 for the “1900 World Fair.”
With a steel base, the bridge stands out for its gold-plated statues of bronze, cast-iron lamps, and stone pillars.
The Grand Palais
Best Season to Visit: September to June
The Grand Palais is dedicated to the “glory of French Art.” It was built in 1900 for the Universal Exhibition. Exactly 100 years after its foundation, the Grand Palais got its designation as a historic monument in 2000.
This architectural excellence was made with glass, stone, and steel. It portrays an excellent fusion of the Baroque style and classicism.
Further, the polychrome friezes in the ceramics and mosaics, iconic statutes, and embellishments tell fascinating stories about the excellence of French architecture and art.
Château de Versailles
Best Season to Visit: April to October
The Château de Versailles is a World Heritage Site (designated in 1979) with its grounds and gardens. It is the official residence of the French King and also the largest Château in the world. Further, it is the greatest outcome of the 17th century French Art.
Built by King Louis XIV, the palace today has a magnificent presence covering 63,154 m2 area. However, the Château de Versailles is not just a remarkable site for its magnanimousity. It also stands tall for its creative excellence and originality.
Moreover, the Château de Versailles was
“The absolute seat of power of the monarch, Versailles was the best formulated and best adapted crucible for French court life for a century and a half (Louis XIV perfectioned “etiquette”) and artistic creation in the domain of music, theatre and the decorative arts. Numerous scientific discoveries were presented there, encouraged by the kings, founders of royal academies.”
The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92)
Best Season to Visit: Any Season
The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92) makes history as one of the rarest venues to host two Olympic games. It was the main venue for the 1924 Summer Olympics, and this year, it will host the field hockey games.
The stadium gets its name from Yves du Manoir, a noted French rugby player.
Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues: An Important Aspect Of Sustainable Promises
Paris Olympics 2024 promotes and practices the complete use of renewable energy. The locally sourced renewable energy is a fruit of the Olympics’ goal of maintaining sustainability. If you are traveling to different Olympic venues in Paris, you will notice the following sustainable practices.
No use of diesel generators
Connection to the grid, enabling the use of sustainable energy
Solar panels in the Aquatics Centre and Olympic Village
Geothermal cooling systems in the Olympic Village (No use of traditional airconditioning system)
Use of recyclable material in building the Aquatics Centre, the only new permanent venue
More Insight Into Sustainable Transformation Of The World’s Most Iconic Tourist Sites Into Olympic Venues In 2024
Further, the International Olympic Committee and Paris are abiding by the promise of sustainability by transforming historical sites into Olympic venues. In the Paris Olympics 2024, 95% of the events will take place at existing historical sites or buildings. This is a conscious decision to practice economic and environmental sustainability. 2, 3
Overall, the Paris Olympics 2024, by transforming historical sites into Olympic venues and using renewable energy, is trying to be the “greenest Olympics ever.” The plan is to reduce the carbon emissions to half in comparison to the previous chapters in London, Rio, and Tokyo (2012, 2016, 2020).
The Committee is particular about its commitment to legacy planning. Further, the reuse of infrastructures is going to be a crucial factor in making the events carbon neutral.
In addition, by choosing the historical sites in Paris as Olympic venues, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) takes one step forward in its effort to minimize the environmental impact of the game. This IOC initiative has been going on since 2017.
Paris organizers, however, made their stance clear on converting historical sites into temporary Olympic venues in 2016. In a report to the International Olympic Committee, they wrote,
“Temporary venues in iconic locations, which will see the city’s greatest sites transformed into stunning stages for sport and embedding the Games in the public domain.”
Along with practicing sustainability, this move has been a wonderful way to impress spectators and get more advertisers and sponsors on board.
Olympics On Mind: Space Travel And The Greatest Sports Event
The frenzy for the Summer Olympics 2024 in Paris reaches the sky. The six living astronauts in the International Space Station showed that they had the Olympics on their minds.
Jeanette Epps, Mike Barratt, Sunita Williams, Tracy Caldwell Dyson, and Butch Wilmore kickstarted their mini Olympics in space by passing the Olympic torch.
In the July 26th video published by NASA, we get to see how the astronauts playfully gear up for their events. Jeanette Epps and Sunita Williams shook up their arms, and Butch Wilmore gulped a water globule roaming around his head. Then, he stretched his upper body.
Sunita Williams further showed some gymnastics moves to up the Olympic spirit in space. However, Butch Wilmore shot-putting a duct tape ball and Mike Barratt launching a discus were the highlights of the fun activities in space.
Matthew Dominick, the NASA scientist currently living off Earth, has said, “Over the past few days on the International Space Station, we've had an absolute blast pretending to be Olympic athletes.” The activities were more fun because of the weightlessness in the space. 4
Who knew that there would be a marriage of space travel and the Olympics like this?
Final Words
With Paris transforming historical sites into Olympic venues, it’s time to plan a trip to the French capital from 26th July to 11th August.
It’s time you enjoy the greatest sports events and encounter the best chapters of French history at once. These picturesque locations are also great for clicking photographs for posterity and garnering attention on your socials.
Also, visiting these places this season can be a small contribution on your behalf to acknowledging the importance of sustainability in travel, tourism, and gala events.
So, are you planning to visit Paris during the Olympics? Bon voyage!
Also read
Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try.
Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]