France remains the world's top tourist destination, according to the World Tourism Organization, with an estimated 75 million visitors per year (2001 statistics). While 2002 figures aren't yet available, experts estimate that tourism was down by as much as 20% as a result of economic worries and the aftermath of 9/11; this has led to unprecedented discounts in hotels and restaurants which our authors detail. Our sidetrips will feature the latest attraction to re-open at Versailles: the Great Royal Stables, new home to the Academy of Equestrian Arts.
