Lunching on the cheap is no problem in France. Look for a sign at the front of restaurants saying "La Formule a ???x", denoting a fixed-price menu, which includes two or three courses with limited choices for each.
I HAVE BOOKED A FAMILY HOLIDAY TO JAPAN. WE'LL BE IN TOKYO FROM DECEMBER 28 TO JANUARY 2 AND JUST REALISED THAT MUCH OF JAPAN CLOSES OVER THIS PERIOD. ANY ALTERNATIVE SIGHTSEEING SUGGESTIONS? K. O'BRIEN, MAROUBRA, NSW
According to Tim Oakes, Australian general manager of Inside Japan, "New Year in Tokyo does bring some challenges, but also some unique opportunities. Head to any izakaya (bar/restaurant) in the last days of December and you can soak up the atmosphere of Japanese workers celebrating an end of year bonenkai (literally "forget the year") party. New Year's Eve/Day should include a visit to Meiji Shrine to pray for health and fortune in the coming year. Then on January 2 don't miss the chance to wave at the Emperor as he gives his traditional New Year message to crowds in the Imperial Palace gardens. And why not pick up some unique souvenirs by lining up to get your hands on one of the "lucky bags" that department stores offer to mark the start of the New Year. For general sightseeing just make sure you plan in advance. A few sights close for up to a week, but plenty close just for a day or two - so you needn't miss out on much."
