The Beauty of Nice
Nice is not only a nice place to visit in France but promises a nice fulfillment to any tourist from any part of the world. Nestling on the Bay of Angels, the coastal life is full of vibrance. From the very early Christian era it has attracted the attention of different races.
It is the birth place of Garibaldi the unifier of Modern Italy and though in the century preceding to his time it was possessed alternately by France and Sardinia, finally became the French possession. Nice-Cote d’Azur Airport handles heavy passenger traffic and is second only to Paris in that respect. From 1930s it has been flooded with tourists and now it has many other attractions than being a lovely seaside resort. Though modernism has caught up with Nice, still basically a walk through Old Town would proclaim its unique nature.
Acropolis now-a-days is associated with business meetings and conferences. The French Tourist office also operates from here. The place is full of an integrated business and relaxed life-style, not usually found in other places.
In the last decades of the 19th century and during the first decades of the 20th century the place was frequented by rich Russians as a winter holiday resort and the impact could be discerned even now. The Cathedral and other religious buildings would be loved by the devout Catholics. The area in this respect is serene and even now is filled with prayers and piety despite so many materialistic adventures around. One can also see an old Roman amphitheatre in this place. At the top of the plateau which can be reached from the promenade through elevators, historical remains of some castles could be seen. From this height a panoramic view of Nice leaves a lasting impression on the visitor.
There is a great museum in nice specialising in exhibits of 17th to 19th century paintings and sculpture. There is no attempt to bring the whole treasure of mankind under a single roof but a substantial impact of local influence could be seen and understood in proper perspective. Nearabouts we have the privilege to witness some remnants of Franciscan Order which was held in great esteem from 13th 17th century for its charity, chastity, piety and service to humanity. A great marble grass belonging to 15th century is an asset.
In the months of May, June, July and August Nice has its traditional festivals, once drawing crowds from within 100 km or so but now from almost all parts of Europe. The festivities include music programmes and other carnivals.
Apart from a scenic railway and an observatory the charms of a sea shore and its myriad attractions also fill the minds of travellers with quiet and ease. But the place lacks no night life either. There are grand dance floors, pubs and places where one can get all types of European food items. Modernism has perpetuated the local flavour as well as diverse tastes in culinary delights!
There are four stars, three star and other exclusive hotels, hassle-free and most comfortable in nice where one can rest for a week or a month. Radisson Sas, Plaza, Nice Excellior, Madrid, Apogia are some fine places to spend one’s time. There are countless budget hotels where comfort is not sacrificed either.
Airport in Nice handles national and international flights throughout the day. There are excellent coaches to move around in the city. There are luxury limos and cars to suit the needs of the travellers.
It is not often that one comes across a nice blend of the ancient, medieval and modern values. Nice has it and you should enjoy it nicely.