Christmas in Paris is magical; it is the time when the aroma of candy floss and roasted chestnuts are continuously wafting through the air, sending bemused travellers in a state of trance. The sweet music emanating from the many splendid carousels lining the city only adds to the joy. Decorated with pretty lights and intricate and colourful designs, these merry-go-rounds are extremely pretty to look at. They are fitted with wooden horses, unicorns, elephants and often dinosaurs that gracefully leap forward with every spin, a beaming child strapped to each of their saddles.

Most neighbourhoods in Paris play host to these joyrides and the biggest ones can be found near the Eiffel Tower, the Hotel de Ville and the Sacre-Coeur in Montmartre. Moreover, the many parks around the city such as the Jardin De Luxembourg and the Jardin Des Plantes are also home to some of these fancy carousels.

It is wonderful how during the holiday season, children are allowed to ride as many as 20 of these carousels for free, thus resulting in extremely relieved parents and over-excited kids. Considering the happiness and nostalgia associated with these ‘Maneges De Noel’, do not be surprised if, despite being an adult, you end up having an uncontrollable urge to go on one of these charming rides and have the time of your life. If not, looking at them is equally satisfactory.

When to go: December 19 to January 4.