Les Hautes Promenades: Reims' Green Oasis

• HelloBonjour
  [bohn-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
• YesOui
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ryehn]
• Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi / Désolé
  [ehks-kyoo-zay mwa / day-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah?]
• Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn. ay voo]
• Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyahnd]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]

• Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-pay-lay lah poh-leece]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-pay-lay uh mayd-sahn]
• I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
• I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-shuh-tay]
• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gahrd zhewst]
• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]

• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell uhr eh-teel]
• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh tun uhr]
• Half past (10)Dix et demi
  [dees ay duhm-ee]
• MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
• AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
• EveningSoir
  [swahr]
• YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
• TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
• TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
• 1Un
  [uhn]
• 2Deux
  [duh]
• 3Trois
  [trwah]
• 4Quatre
  [kahtr]
• 5Cinq
  [sank]
• 6Six
  [seece]
• 7Sept
  [sept]
• 8Huit
  [wheat]
• 9Neuf
  [nuff]
• 10Dix
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo eh]
• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell eh lad-rehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vez voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

Les Hautes Promenades, located in the heart of Reims, was originally part of a defensive system established during the Roman period. This strategic area, which offered a panoramic view of the city, was utilized for fortifications and as a lookout point. The remnants of Roman architecture can still be traced in the vicinity, showcasing the historical significance of this elevated neighborhood.

In the 18th century, Les Hautes Promenades underwent significant urban development as Reims expanded. This period marked the construction of elegant townhouses and public gardens, reflecting the architectural styles of the era. The neighborhood became a fashionable area, frequented by the nobility and bourgeoisie, who enjoyed leisurely walks along its tree-lined paths.

During World War I, Reims suffered extensive damage, and Les Hautes Promenades was not spared. The neighborhood witnessed the ravages of war, leading to a post-war reconstruction effort that sought to restore its former glory. This period saw the introduction of modernist architectural styles, which contrasted with the classical designs of earlier centuries, creating a unique blend of old and new.

Today, Les Hautes Promenades serves as a cultural hub within Reims, hosting various events, festivals, and artistic installations. The area is home to numerous cafés, shops, and cultural institutions, making it a vibrant part of the city. Its history as a gathering place continues as locals and tourists alike enjoy the scenic promenades and the surrounding historical context.

Les Hautes Promenades is situated in a region renowned for its Champagne production. The cultural influence of Champagne is palpable in the neighborhood, with numerous champagne houses located nearby. This connection to the wine industry has shaped local customs, celebrations, and gastronomy, making it an integral part of Reims' identity and heritage.

Les Hautes Promenades is centrally located in Reims, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From the Reims train station (Gare de Reims), you can take a short walk of about 15 minutes or hop on tram line A, which takes you directly to the area. If you're coming from the city center, Les Hautes Promenades is just a leisurely stroll away, approximately 10 minutes on foot.

Les Hautes Promenades is best explored on foot, as many attractions, shops, and cafes are within walking distance. The local tram system, operated by Champagne-Ardenne, has several stops in the area, including tram lines A and B, which connect to other parts of Reims. Bicycles can also be rented through the local bike-sharing program, Vélos en Ville, allowing you to navigate the picturesque streets at your own pace.

Les Hautes Promenades is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur, so stay alert and aware of your surroundings, particularly around busy tourist sites.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in France. The local police station is located nearby, and there are several hospitals and clinics in Reims. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress smartly, as the French appreciate a polished appearance. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to the elderly and keep noise to a minimum. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as champagne and Reims biscuits. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely affair in France.

To experience Les Hautes Promenades like a local, visit the open-air markets for fresh produce and regional products. Engage with shopkeepers and locals, as they are often eager to share the best places to eat and drink. Consider enjoying a picnic in the Parc de la Patte d'Oie, where you can relax and appreciate the greenery. Lastly, don’t miss the opportunity to try a glass of champagne at one of the local wine bars, where you can learn more about the region's famous sparkling wine.