Laura Newell, Arts Editor

Recently I traveled alone to Paris, France as a summer vacation to visit my cousin, who currently lives there.  I had nine days and 300 euros to see museums, eat French food, shop and take in the French culture. 
After arriving into Paris the most cost efficient way of getting around is by the metropolitan.  A one-way ticket inside Paris runs at about 1,40 Euros, however, for a week or longer it is better to purchase a five day pass for 26,65 Euros.  More information on prices can for the Paris metro at http://www.bootsnall.com/europetravelguides/paris/may02metro.shtml#top. 
While the metro is underground and not visible to the outside sights, it is an excellent way to grasp French culture.
For the traveling student on a budget, 26 years and younger are considered to be youth and receive discounted tickets for a lot of museums and famous sites and 18 years and under are free.  Students (or 26 and younger) receive a discount of three to four euros off of entry fees. 
The best way to save money and see the attractions is during free nights.  Cathedrals are all free for visitors.  The Louvre is free every first Sunday of the month, and on Friday and Wednesday nights for youth.
Pariscope Magazine shows all of the exciting happenings in Paris for the week and explains what is free.  During the summer months there are a lot of festivals and celebrations which are free or inexpensive for people as well.
Eating on a budget is not as hard as I originally thought.  Traveling with a local is helpful and the experience showed me the best money saving tips. 
First, it is best to buy things from the markets and little sandwich shops.  A baguette sandwich and drink is about five euros, and is healthy.  While cafés are fun and fancy, it can get expensive.  However, it is important to experience eating a café croissant and coffee.
Shopping boutiques are a good way of purchasing less expensive clothes and shoes, and allowed me to buy more than I could have if I shopped larger stores on the fashion avenues.
What are some must sees?  One should not leave Paris without viewing the Mona Lisa and the Madonna on the Rocks at the Louvre. 
The beautiful architecture, gardens and history of Versailles also can not be missed. 
The Notre Dame is of course a must see.  Chills run down the spine as one views the personal detail within and outside of the church.  Even feeding the small birds cookies by hand on the bushes outside of the church is an amazing experience. 
The largest hill in Paris, Montmartre, may be hard to climb but the views of Paris, Sacre Coeur and Painter’s Square are amazing. 
Lastly, one must visit the best view of Paris, especially at night, from the Eiffel Tower.  Here, the lights of the entire city look like jewels, and the city of romance comes to life.