Postcards from Paris Newsletter : A-Night-in-Paris.com

You're in Paris, City of Love and Light, fashion capital of the world, you're going for a stroll along the banks of the famous River Seine ...

and then you see beach umbrellas and people sunbathing in deckchairs! Don't be shocked - be happy, as the city shares its annual beach with you.

For the past seven years, the City of Paris has imported 1,800 tons of sand, decorated it with palm trees and water fountains, added deck chairs (lounge chairs) and invites you to be part of this fun oasis in the heart of Paris.

You can walk the 2 mile stretch of Paris Plage (Plage means beach in French), or be one of the sunbathers worshipping the sun.

So head to the River - you can't miss this fun way to relax in gorgeous Paris!

When: July 20 to August 20 each year.

Where: from Quai du Louvre to Quai des Celestins on the Right Bank

What else? : sunning yourself, playing petanque (like lawn bowls), swimming in the temporary swimming pool (really!), relaxing with friends (bring a pique-nique), and even practicing Tai Chi!