Be seduced by the romance and style that Paris affords.
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Spectacular landmarks, iconic neighbourhoods, legendary restaurants and incredible shopping — we love the world's most popular destinations for many reasons.
You may well have been there, done that when it comes to the famous attractions in these great cities. But dig a little deeper and you'll find endless hidden gems, making repeat visits a different experience every time.
A Round-the-world fare gives you global coverage through the oneworld alliance, flying not only Qantas, but other top airlines. So next time you're heading to one of these iconic destinations, why not include a few more stops in your trip?
Here's just a sample of the lesser-known treasures you could discover along the way.
PARIS, FRANCE
Famous for: Romance and style. It's in the architecture of the French capital, its iconic Eiffel Tower visible every which way above the duck egg blue rooftops and shiny church spires. And in the locals who exude effortless chic as they somehow manage to combine Breton shirts and baguettes without looking cliched. And, the food — everything tastes better in the City of Light.
But did you know… Paris is home to a network of "passages", built in the early 1800s. Once part of a labyrinth of shopping arcades numbering up to 150, many were demolished. But plenty remain, have been lovingly restored and are home to unique shops selling fashion, toys, wine, collectibles and ethnic foods.
In fact, the entirety of Passage Brady is dedicated to Indian foods, fabrics and icons. Passage du Grand Cerf, in the 2nd Arrondissement, is generally regarded as the most beautiful in the city.
LONDON, UK
Leadenhall Market, Gracechurch Street, dates back to the 14th Century Credit: Getty Images
Famous for: More dazzling landmarks per square kilometre than seems possible: the regal power of Buckingham Palace, the eclectic bohemia of Brick Lane, the sporting legend of Wembley Stadium, the cutting edge fashion of Covent Garden — London has it all.
But did you know… Spanning the city is a network of vibrant markets that have operated in the same locations for centuries. Leadenhall Market dates as far back as Roman London. Once teeming with produce and barrow boys, today's ornate Grade II-listed structure of wrought iron and glass, which features in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, is home to beautiful restaurants, bars and boutiques.
Vintage and vinyl lovers should head to Old Spitalfields Market, operating in the city's east for 350 years.
LOS ANGELES, USA
The Broad Museum on Grand Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Credit: Getty Images
Famous for: Hollywood, baby. The entertainment capital of the world is where the cafes, bars and restaurants are wall-to-wall with celebrities and deal makers. It's where the original Disneyland invented the theme park concept and where the Universal Studios park continues to evolve its cutting-edge entertainment offering.
But did you know… LA is a haven of art and design museums and galleries. On Wilshire Boulevard's Museum Row, look out for the large-scaled public sculpture, Urban Light, comprising renovated street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s — that's the entrance to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or LACMA, featuring works by Rembrandt, Picasso and Rivera.
Its neighbours include the high-tech Petersen Automotive Museum plus Craft Contemporary, dedicated to the handmade and artisan.
TOKYO, JAPAN
Kanda Jimbocho old bookstore street in Tokyo, Japan.Credit: Getty Images
Famous for: Brimming with life and culture. From the exquisite flavours of its fresh sushi to the weird snacks in the food vending machines, the teeming pedestrian crossings to the serenely beautiful temples, the graceful Geishas to the quirky Harajuku girls, the Japanese capital is a city that dazzles the senses at every turn.
But did you know… Tokyo is a dream destination for lovers of stationery, art supplies and books. There are speciality stores selling unique pencils, stickers, sticky notes, even animal-shaped erasers. Purchase Japan's traditional paper at Ozu Washi — it dates back to 1653 and hosts papermaking workshops as well as running a museum.
Traveler's Factory sells notebooks, journals and diaries. It's tucked away in an old factory down an alleyway in the trendy Nakameguro neighbourhood. Book lovers need only head to Jimbocho, where there are more than 150 stores selling second-hand and new volumes. You'll find plenty in English among the burgeoning shelves.
Qantas and the oneworld alliance connects you to these great destinations among thousands of others.The oneworld Round-the-world fare makes it easy to travel from city to city, continent to continent, all around the world. For more information, see https://www.oneworld.com/ . Travel bigger, better and brighter with Qantas and oneworld.
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