Paris is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world - and for good reason. The city seems to have a personality all its own, full of charm, quirks, and subtle beauty - it is unlike anywhere else in the world. For those who have visited la Ville des Lumieres in the past, the incomparable experience that comes from the city’s personality does not need to be explained. But if this is your first trip to Paris, you may need some help in understanding how to best take in all that the city has to offer.

In the midst of change, news that's challenging, unsettling, or inscrutable, it is often good to take a step back, to pause and let such things settle in the mind or in the heart while thinking over what's next. Music can be a useful and interesting way to take such a pause. Here are four ideas of music to invite or go along with such times of reflection.

Music for Reflection

“Welcome to 1816.” Magdelaine La Framboise’s spirit greeted our arrival to the island she had loved. The Odawa-French fur trader, who had fascinated me for years, invited my husband, Bob, and me to stay at the Harbour View Inn. In its prior life, the current B&B had been her home. Its construction was overseen by her son-in-law, Captain Benjamin Pierce, brother to future President Franklin Pierce. The gentle breezes whispered Magdelaine's words, “I apologize that I can’t spend more time with you.

No holds barred! Fun for all is the watchword in Norfolk, Conn., this coming August 4, 5, and 6 during the town’s three-day, town-wide festival, A Weekend in Norfolk. Everyone’s invited to come with family and friends to enjoy the more than 75 events—mostly free—listed on its website, weekendinnorfolk.org.

You've booked the flights, gotten the guidebooks, and are finalizing your budget for your trip to Paris. Now that reality has set in, it's a good idea to find ways to save money on Family Travel in Paris. Never fear! Although Paris can be expensive, there are definitely ways to cut costs without turning your journey into a cheapskate's dream.