Around the World in 80 minutes

Start at RER station Cité Universitaire, and go through the arched gate remaining humanistic Renaissance... You've reached the heart of the International Residence Halls (The Cité Universitaire Internationale de Paris). It was conceived in the Twenties as a project which would help to build peace and people's concord after the disaster of the First World War. This greenery town is spread on some 75 acres and welcomes some 10 000 students from 140 countries. Take a stroll in the park, enjoy a nap lying down on its lawn, have a picnic, play football or visit the world in 80 minutes!

The Gardens offer an architectural and cultural route in the open air. The forty houses forming the Residence itself have been inspired by their home country: you'll recognize a Swiss chalet, and also typical buildings from Italy, India, or Japan, among others. Each building houses students from any nationality, in a joyful melting-pot favouring cultural exchanges and meetings. From workshops to exhibitions or talks, a wide choice of events happens in the pavilions, not to forget the concerts and parties cheerfully animating the Halls.

More culture will be found at the Théâtre de la Cité Internationale: circus, dance, theatre and living arts meet in this institution dedicated to search for the latest forms of contemporary creation. The adjoining bar and its terrace overlooking the park are a must, before or after the performances.

For a salad or a sandwich, try the Terrasse de la Cité Internationale. All students meet here at some point to enjoy the wonderful views over the park.

At the other side of Boulevard Jourdan, you'll find another beautiful park: this hilly green lung is the Montsouris Park. With more than 35 acres, three huge lawns and almost a thousand a five hundred trees, it's one of the biggest park in Paris. Check the beautiful redwood by the Weather Pavillion, and the ginkgo - nicknamed the "Thousand crowns tree" in French (arbre aux mille écus). As a matter of interest, Lenin lived in the neighbourhood, and would consider Montsouris as his private garden!

For a gourmet stop you must try the Pavillon Montsouris and its colonial atmosphere. The place will give an atmospheric twist to your lunch or your dinner. On sunny days, it has a great terrace.