by Kristy Eaton

Created on: December 23, 2006   Last Updated: April 17, 2007

Lyon, France

I lived in Lyon, France for three and a half years, from the age of 16 to 20. It was a truly unique and eye-opening experience. Having come from a suburban and sheltered (but charming) existence in Canberra, Australia to moving to the charismatic and very French' city of Lyon, France was quite a shock to the system. Having lived in Lyon exposed me to some of the places (which aren't usually mentioned in the tourist books) that must be visited in order to experience a truly unique Lyonnaise experience.

The local Kebab Shop

The kebab, although a common food, is truly a must-eat in Lyon. Lyon has a high North African population and hence there are many kebab shops tucked in the side streets of Lyon. Do not be alarmed if your local kebab shop may appear dirty, I assure you, the kebabs are clean and truly a culinary experience. Note: Always request mayonnaise with your kebab a great combination.

Ayers Rock

AhhhI spent many a night at this great Aussie-inspired bar. Ayers Rock is tucked away in a little alleyway in the heart of Hotel De Ville. The crowd is very international Americans, Swedes, Australians, Italians, Spanish people from all around the world visit and culminate in this little gem of a bar. The barmen dance on the bar nearly every night stripping to Tom Jones You can leave your hat on' trust me it is NOT a sight for sore eyes. At the end of the night (Thursday night is the best night as a lot of students visit and the drinks are normally half price) you will be buzzing from the great music, great cocktails (Sex on Bondi Beach', Blue Koala', etc.) and most importantly the great worldly people that you will meet, talk, and dance with.

Parc De La Tete D'or

If there is one thing I miss the most about Lyon, it is the Parc De La Tete D'or. This park is the largest park in Lyon. It even houses a free zoo! I was very lucky to live right near this park. Every second day I would walk through the park bypassing the enormous lakes housing black and white swans, Rose garden (where many weddings were staged), cactus garden, green house, and most importantly the zoo. I have never been to a zoo that is free. And this zoo is not small by any means. There are monkeys, tigers, lions, 3 large swaying elephants, 2 giraffes, kangaroos, snakes, the list goes on. You must visit this park in springtime. All the flowers are in bloom and the roar of Lions can be heard from all corners of the park pure heaven!

The list to be continued soon.

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