HAPPY HANUKKAH!
NIGHT 1
Took the Eurostar Bullet train to Paris. I do quite love taking the trains around Europe. Comfortable, affordable and quick – no need to fight the traffic at an airport.
Arrive late and checked into our charming little hotel (I do highly recommend). Meandered the town and enjoyed a delightful dinner at a quintessentially Parisian restaurant where the outdoor seating was cramped and the air was lingering with cigarettes. But I think it was undoubtedly the best meal we had in Paris. I had the Steak Frites and it was divine. Later, we made our way to a trendy, upscale bar for some drinks before retiring for the night.
DAY 1
We started our day with a visit to the Notre Dame, sadly still closed due to the fire. Nevertheless, we strolled around and admired the exterior. After, we tried for the Catacombs (which I had never been), but it was closed due to a protest. So instead, we had croissants from a bakery across the street though my ham and cheese one was rather disappointing – it was semi-warm but not warm and the cheese wasn’t melted but shredded. However, I compensated with some delectable Parisian chocolate from the shop next door. Later, as we made our way to the train, we indulged in some macaroons after admiring the Parisian Statue of Liberty. Prior, we found ourselves on a regular bus, an experience grossly tainted by unpleasant odors and humidity. Note to self: always opt for the trains.
We strolled around the Eiffel Tower which was closed for ascending due to high winds. Undeterred by the weather, we made our way to the top of Montmartre. . We found an adorable outdoor market, which reminded me of where I had my first taste of escargot circa 2004. We found some very traditional Parisian food, and both decided to give escargot another try. Surprisingly, it wasn’t as bad as I remembered – perhaps my taste buds have matured since I was 13.
As we made our way back to the market, we treated ourselves to some hot mulled wine, which quickly became my new favorite thing for cold and rainy days in Paris. Our next stop led us to the Rue Foyatier stairs from John Wick 4, and we embraced the challenge of climbing the 222 steps to Sacré-Cœur. The views from up there were simply breathtaking. Okay we climbed half of them but descended all 222.
We wrapped up the night in the best way possible – indulging in crepes and ice cream.
DAY 2
Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios .
DAY 3
We took the train to the Louvre, for the sake of time we opted just to peek the outside since exploring inside would require a full day. Then off to Arc de Triomphe where we climbed all 284 stairs to the top!! Spectacular 360 views of the city. The breathtaking 360-degree views of the city made the effort truly worthwhile. Our wanderings then led us to picturesque side streets lined with luxurious shops, including the impressive “giant Louis Vuitton purse” building. Our next stops included enjoying pastry treats at Copain (which also resulted in a less than palatable ham & cheese croissant..seriously I just want a melty croissant) then indulging in more delicacies at the oldest pâtisserie in Paris: Stohrer (established in 1730 by King Louis XV’s pastry chef, Nicolas Stohrer). To top off our afternoon, I savored a magical croque monsieur at a charming corner café we stumbled upon (finally!!).
We wrapped up the day with a coffee to warm ourselves before strolling to the Eiffel Tower. To our surprise, we realized we had purchased tickets for the wrong day. However, with the help of some local staff, we acquired walking tickets and ended up climbing the steps of the Eiffel Tower. This turned out to be a new and exciting experience for both of us. We took a break at the Eiffel restaurant for cocktails overlooking the cityscape, and then proceeded to the first lookout point for a champagne toast. Despite our ticket mishap, my boyfriend worked his charm and we managed to take the elevator all the way to the top. There, we enjoyed another lovely champagne toast, courtesy of his efforts.
During our last night in Paris, we decided to dine at Le Procope. Established in 1686, Le Procope proudly claims to be the oldest continuously operating cafe in the world. One of the highlights for me was the Traditional “Ivre de JuliÉnas” Coq Au Vin, a historic recipe that left a lasting impression. This dining experience easily ranks as one of the top three meals I have ever had in Paris, and it was the perfect conclusion to our time in the City of Love.
Café Procope. Here founded Procopio dei Coltelli in 1686 the oldest coffeehouse of the world and the most famous center of the literary and philosophic life of the 18th and 19th centuries. It was frequented by La Fontaine, Voltaire and the Encyclopedistes: Benjamin Franklin, Danton, Marat, Robespierre, Napoleon Bonaparte, Balzac, Victor Hugo, Gambetta, Verlaine and Anatole France.
THOUGHTS / IMPRESSION / TIPS
If you’re considering a visit to Disneyland Paris, get ready for a day packed with excitement and magic! Many visitors find the experience even more enjoyable than its counterparts in the US, thanks to the exhilarating rides and outstanding culinary offerings.
To make the most of your visit, it’s essential to purchase tickets in advance, as many popular attractions now require reservations due to post-COVID regulations. Additionally, be sure to double-check your reservation date, as the format may differ from what you’re accustomed to in the US. Keep an eye on the weather as well, as certain attractions may be affected by conditions such as high winds at the Eiffel Tower.
For getting around, walking can be just as efficient as using public transportation, and it offers the opportunity to explore unique and charming areas. If you’re up for it, walking up the Eiffel Tower can be a truly memorable experience, allowing you to appreciate the iconic landmark from a different perspective. Also, climbing to the top of any major landmark is worth the extra steps.
Food/Drink Stops: Stohrer (4★)($$), Procope (5★)($$), Laduree (3★)($$), Madame Brasserie Eiffel Tower (3★ – drinks)($$$), Dreamin’ Man (3★ – cafe)($), Bisou (2★ – drinks)($$), Le Voltaire (4★)($$), Le Relais Gascon (2★)($$$), Copains (2.5★)($), L’Empire Brasserie (croque monsieur) (4★)($$), Le Relais Gascon (3★)($$$), Comptoir Du Chocolat (3★)($), Paul (1★)($), WAB Bar (1★)($)
Places to Stay: Hotel Marais Home (3★)($$$$)
Points of Interest: Eiffel Tower (★), Statue of Liberty (★), Disneyland Paris, The Louvre, Arc De Triomphe, Montmartre, Rue Foyatier, Sacré-Cœur, Moulin Rouge, Calvaire Street Stairs, Rue Drevet Stairs, Notre Dame Cathedral
SKIP : BUSES (gross…) – take the Trains or walk!!
Want to See: Catacombs of Paris, (inside) Louvre, Versailles, Musee d’Orsay, Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show, French Macaroon Culinary Class, Paris Food Tour, Opera Garnier, Galerie Lafayette, Champ de Mars…
The Peace Traveler 