Ile-de-France
Ile de France enjoys the best of both worlds. Despite its proximity to Paris, it has wide open spaces, densely wooded rural areas and charming villages. Yet Paris is within quick and easy commuting distance using the efficient urban train network the RER.
Various kings and queens also thought it the ideal getaway retreat, so the region has more than its fair share of palaces, chateaus and vast forests used for their hunting expeditions.
Paris is a beautiful city. It has everything a city lover could possibly desire. Chic little boutiques and huge departement stores, wonderful art galleries and performance spaces, superb restaurants, and huge flea and antique markets. There are elegant squares and pretty parks and the Seine must be the most romantic waterfront in the world!