★ The best of France lies not far from Paris ★
"...The Île de France has no real regional unity, it does not offer any precise boundaries..." wrote the renowned French historian Marc Bloch in his 1913 volume "lÎle-de-France: les pays autour de Paris," literally "The Country Around Paris."
This undefined region within easy daytrip range of Paris is truly the heart of France. Although some of the destinations lie beyond what is usually thought of as the Île de France, they can all be reached quickly by public transportation.
This app is not just a digital rehash of a printed guidebook. Instead, it takes full advantage of the latest computer and internet technology to bring an amazing amount of current information to your fingertips; easy to access and really up to date.
Two different but compatible approaches to travel information are taken by the author, and they work seamlessly together through hundreds of links. First, there are full details for 15 self-guided one-day tours, and then there are separate files describing the attractions, restaurants, and the like — plus files on background information, transportation details, and other practicalities.
For nearly every file there are photos and Diagram Maps pinpointing exact locations. Both the photos and the maps can easily be opened to full page size at a touch, even without a WiFi or cellular connection.
Pariss Backyard is the second in a series of upcoming "Backyard" digital guides, each focusing on interesting destinations near the big cities. The first was "Londons Backyard," covering much of southeastern England. The feature that truly sets them apart from other apps is the widespread use of especially-created DIAGRAM MAPS for every destination, showing users exactly where everything is and easily-read, even on the small screen of an iPhone or iPod Touch. There is also a very thorough Menu Translator and guides for both rail travel and driving.
★ About the Author ★
Earl Steinbicker, creator of and principal writer for the Daytrips series of guidebooks since 1983, employs all of the the experience gained in creating his "Daytrips France" books in this new concept of digital guides. He believes that travel should be a joy, not an endurance test, and has been refining his carefree style of personal exploration for over 40 years.
★ About Sutro Media ★
This guide is published in partnership with Sutro Media. By enabling local writers to share their expertise on mobile phones, Sutro Media is making it easier and more fun to explore the world!
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