Paris accommodation update

Unfortunately the original accommodation I had booked in Paris was cancelled because the host wanted to renovate. 

This apartment (booked on wimdu.com) is further away from the Eiffel Tower but close to the Louvre - walking distance as we want to walk around Paris mostly, especially in Spring. 


The apartment is modern inside and quite traditional from outside. Comes to around $250 a night (which is better than the $600-1000/night I was being quoted for other apartments - more upscale but around same location and size).

The owner also offers guided tours so will look into that.

Accommodation in Dubai booked

After a lot of searching on multiple websites, finally booked accommodation at the Golden Sands Hotel Apartments using booking.com for a three bedroom apartment for less than AUD200/night at a handy location.
I had booked using my DELL Streak Android but then the hotel apparently rejected for a reason that did not make sense. So I rang up booking.com on 1800 058 744 (Australian number) and Esther, a very friendly operator was able to arrange everything for me. I did also try out Expedia (more expensive), hotels.com and hotelclub.com.  


I used tripadvisor.com to check out the reviews.  Overall I think a good choice at a good price.

British Museum - Hajj: journey to the heart of Islam

We hope to attend this exhibition at the British Museum.

British Museum - Hajj: journey to the heart of Islam
26 January – 15 April 2012

One of the five pillars of Islam central to Muslim belief, Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim must make at least once in their lifetime if they are able. This major exhibition charts the history of this deeply personal journey.

Eurostar booking made

Have booked the Eurostar from London to Paris using the Eurostar website.  Decided to get an early train so we get some good daylight hours in Paris.

Paris accommodation booked

Have booked accommodation in Paris. Was a bit difficult, most apartments (we wanted apartment rather than hotel) were booked out.  Happened to find a two bedroom apartment on www.wimdu.com.au just two blocks from the Eiffel Tower for just under AUD700 for three nights. Pretty good value I think considering its peak period over there.

Preparations under way

We have started preparations for our trip to the UK from Australia in April 2012.  The flights are booked.  Negotiating on accommodation now and getting some ideas for things to do in the UK whilst we are there.