Book into a discount hotel near the Musee des Arts Africains et Oceaniens in Paris, and then visit this place that was once a favorite of Picasso and his artist friends. Located near the Bois de Vicennes, this institution was originally called the Museum of the Colonies, and then the Overseas Museum. Since 1931 it has displayed indigenous art from African countries that were once French colonies, particularly Angola, Nigeria, Cameroon, the Congo, and North Africa. There are also examples of art from New Guinea and the Pacific Islands. This is considered to be one of the finest collections of African folk art in the world. The visitor will see beautiful masks and totems, exquisite carpets, fabulous jewelery and gold ornaments, and luxurious creations in silk. Among the exhibits are fine examples of pottery and wooden cabinets.
When you come here from your budget hotel near the Musee des Arts Africains et Oceaniens in Paris you will also find a wonderful aquarium. Formerly called the Aquarium of the MAAO, it is now known as the Aquarium of the Gilded Door. This is a very popular place with children. They can see both freshwater and salt water fish and invertebrates, as well as crocodiles and turtles. Their visit will be an educational experience in which they will learn some of the facts about exotic creatures such as piranha.