Paris , France (1-4 Arrondissement )

Once just a village that settled on the "Ile de la Cite" (City Island) on the confluence of the Seine's two branches, Paris has vastly expanded over the centuries, taking the surrounding villages under its wing and making them its own. Nowadays the City of Light—a name Paris earned during the age of the Enlightenment—is made up of several arrondissements or districts, numbered from 1 to 20 and logically ordered with the 1st in the center and the others following in a clockwise spiral. The differences are vast and varied between the districts, both in terms of the populations and attractions, which together make up the multifaceted city we know and love.

1st Arrondissement With its impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, the Louvre attracts visitors from the world over, who often combine it with a stroll in the adjoining Tuileries gardens. Designers of haute couture, including Yves St-Laurent and Dior, have set up shop in Faubourg Saint-Honore , just a short walk from the majestic Place Vendôme , home to some of the finest jewelers in Paris. If luxury seems to be the prevailing feature in the 1st arrondissement, it has also lovingly accepted the Forum des Halles , the city's largest shopping center.

2nd Arrondissement With its little back streets harboring galleries, cafes and boutiques, this district sets a typically Parisian scene. West of Rue Richelieu stands the theater district where a dozen or so playhouses throng. The Palais Brongniart reminds by-passers of what used to be the location of Paris' vibrant Stock market, while certain clothing factories in the Sentier district are now home to Internet companies.

3rd Arrondissement The Marais district prides itself on being one of the oldest and best preserved in Paris. In keeping with this yearning for yesteryear, a museum charting the history of the capital ( Musee Carnavalet ) can also be found here. Scattered with trendy bars, cafes and stylish boutiques, the Marais has also become the Mecca of gay nightlife in Paris.

4th Arrondissement Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque districts. Wander across the bridge opposite the Hôtel de Ville (town hall) and you will drift onto the capital's two islands—Île de la Cite and Île Saint-Louis—where a visit to the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral is an absolute must. Back on the right bank, Place des Vosges , a beautiful old square lined with ancient buildings, is a wonderful witness to times gone by, while the Beaubourg center of contemporary art confirms its resolutely futuristic outlook.