World Tour: Paris Top Five

“Merci, Merci!” I got pretty used to saying thank you in French when I was in Paris and when it was time to come back I actually said this to my American taxi driver as I was getting out. Through the years I have traveled to many French influenced places but nothing matches up to an actual trip to France. There are so many things to take in on a trip to the French speaking country. Champagne, crepes, unparralled fashion and wine galore. When one is in Paris, there are five things you must do:

1. Have a glass of wine on the Seine. The Seine is the water passage that lies in the center of the city’s best attractions. It is the ultimate people watching scene which is probably why most of the chairs face the sidewalk and streets versus the typical table setting.

2. Take 1 to 2 days to visit the Louvre. This is the part of our trip that we regret. We only got an outside view of the house of masterpieces. Next trip we promise ourselves a trip to the Louvre: 1 day to stare at the Mona Lisa and another to see the rest of the museum.

3. Shop. When one is in Paris, you have to bring back something representative of the top fashion capitol of the world. From outdoors markets to the Avenue des Champs-Elysées strip, there are plenty of options for the inexpensive or expensive trendy trinket.

4. Enjoy a crepe while soaking up the scene outside of the Notre Dame Cathedral. One of the most prestigious churches in the city, the outdoor scene at Notre Dame is full of interesting things to see. (*When I was there, they were filming a movie that looked like it took place in the 1920’s…)

5. Visit the Eiffel Tower at night. The site is absolutely for sore eyes. If you can get a hotel with a view of the Eiffel, go for it, but if not, with a camera and a beau in tow, it is something you want to catch once the daylight leaves.

On our next cheap flight to Paris, we will be sure to tack on an extra large chunk of change for a new dress and we will extend our stay to really take in all the Louvre has to offer. For now, until our United Airlines Mileage points add up, we will continue to work on those French speaking lessons…”Au revoir!”