The famed red clay courts of Stade Roland-Garros are ready and waiting for the 2011 French Open.  This renowned tennis tournament is the most watched event in the sport, and it is the perfect opportunity to visit Paris.

Located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris by the southern border of Bois de Boulogne, Stade Roland-Garros was constructed in 1928—although the tournament has been around since 1891.  The stadium was named for celebrated aviator and World War I hero Roland Garros, and in France the tournament is always referred to by his (and the stadium’s) name.  Within the complex, there are 20 different courts, each with the red clay playing surface that slows down the ball—and this makes for exciting games, as players who dominate elsewhere might find themselves at a loss on the red court.

Tennis At the French Open
Tennis At the French Open
As with anything French, there is more to this tournament than just the incredible athleticism of the players and the drama of every game.  There is of course pageantry, pleasure and a little history at each year’s Open.  Tennis lovers can get autographs from their favorite players in the Activities Area at the top of allée Suzanne Lenglen.  This entertainment center provides fans with games and music when they’re not courtside.  The Longines Smash Corner will give you the opportunity to find out how fast your serve is.  Feeling peckish?  Stop by Les Jardins des Roland-Garros restaurant to taste a spring-inspired menu that changes from day to day to take advantage of the freshest ingredients.  What could be more French?

The Open this year begins with the Qualifying games from May 18-21.  Saturday, May 22 is Children’s Day at Stade Roland-Garros, and the tennis champs will play exhibition matches to benefit charities for children.  This Saturday tradition is very relaxed—you can choose your own seat to watch the charity exhibition games.  The Final Draw games begin Sunday, May 23, and continue until June 6.

New York Habitat has the perfect apartment for the French Open fan.  With several vacation rentals in the 16th arrondissement, within easy distance of Stade Roland-Garros, New York Habitat will be the perfect host for your unforgettable trip to see the most physically demanding tennis event in the world.  Feeling a little overwhelmed?  Here are some great apartments—available now—to get your search started:

You’ll love this 1 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Champs Elysees – Paris (PA-4084).  With lots of natural light, gorgeous hardwood floors, beautiful built-ins, and even a resident exercise bicycle for the traveling athlete, this well-appointed apartment will be the perfect retreat for tennis fans.

Traveling with the whole family plus friends?  Look no farther than this 3 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Champs Elysees – Paris (PA-791).  Bright and cheery, this spacious apartment offers huge windows, high ceilings, and beautiful bas-relief architectural details.  Bring the whole crew to the French Open with you!

This sleek and modern 2 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Auteuil – Tour Eiffel – Paris (PA-4023) offers a beautiful mix of traditional hardwood floors with elegant leather furnishings.  The enormous contemporary-style tub in the bathroom will be the perfect place to soak away a day in the sun.

You’ll never want to come home from here!

Did you make it to the 2011 French Open? Share the best matches that you attended in the comments section below.