Paris, France Destination Expert

Paris, France

Paris isn't just a destination; it’s a feeling I’ve captured in the morning light at Trocadero & the glowing streetlamps of the Latin Quarter. My journey through the City of Light is a blend of royal history and modern whimsy, starting with the manicured Jardin du Palais-Royal. I love wandering through the striped Buren columns before heading to the Jardin des Tuileries to walk the same paths as French royalty, Pro tip: the Musée de l'Orangerie inside is a must, and if you time it for the first Sunday of the month, admission is free!

Iconics and Elegance: Nothing beats the sophistication of the Champs-Élysées. I can spend hours admiring the architecture and popping into boutiques like Tiffany’s,Nike, and Gucci.For the best views of the "Iron Lady," I always head to Rue de l’Université or walk the magical Pont Alexandre III. Of course, no trip is complete without the Eiffel Tower itself. Take in the views and enjoy the beautiful weather. I know I did.The elevators are small and can be a bit cramped for some people but, I highly recommend doing this at least once, you must go in and see the Eiffel Tower. It's spectacular! I highly recommend booking in advance to sip champagne on the second floor or taking the lift to the very top to see Paris laid out like a map.

Art, History, and the Macabre:I’m a sucker for the stories held within these walls, Les Invalides: Where I paid my respects at Napoleon’s tomb.Musée Rodin: A peaceful retreat filled with sculptures and stunning gardens (note: it’s closed Mondays!).The Conciergerie: A sobering look at where Marie Antoinette spent her final days, and you learn somuch about the French Revolution.Les Catacombes: It's a self guided tour with audio to learn interesting facts from.There's bones that surround you, and alot of history to listen to. Good for the history buff. It's very unique. Descending into this underground labyrinth is chilling and fascinating,bring a jacket and wear comfortable shoes! Afterward, it’s a quick 20-minute walk to La Tour Montparnasse for a 56th-floor panoramic view that helps you get your bearings. Bohemian Dreams in Montmartre. Montmartre has a soul of its own. I love the energy of Place du Tertre, watching local artists at their easels, and finding "Instagram-worthy" hidden gems like the steps of Rue Maurice Utrillo. I always make time for the Musée de la Vie Romantique for free art and a quiet tea in the garden cafe. As the sun sets, the vibe shifts, the Moulin Rouge lights up the night, & the local nightlife becomes electric.

The Louve is spectacular with the artwork, it has famous works like the Mona Lisa, & amazing works of art. 

Eatery's: A.LaCroix is a pastry shop, they have specialty pastries that are delicious. The pastry that I got, looked like an apple, and when you ut your fork in it, it has a creamy delicious center and tastes like an apple pie. It's close to the Notre Dame Cathedrail. 

McDonalds: France has their own franchised McDonalds. This is a good pick for kids, as they know & love this fast food eatery.

Bistro Des Champs : Have excellent Mac 'n' cheese, Their Fish & mussels are good as well as their fish & chips, they're in front of a building that looks like a giant suitcase. 

Good News: A Cafe that has excellent pastries that pair well with your morning coffee.

Pate Pelle Museum: Its free and built in the 1900's with amazing works of art and they have a space for kids to work on their own art. There's an inner courtyard with a garden and cafe. 

The Oblisk : It was gifted to France by Egypt in 1831. It's the oldest monument in Paris, you must see it. I love it.

They have Macroon making classes: You can meet your instructor, choose your flavor, and you get to try them and take home a box of Macroons at the end of the class. 

You must get a Baggette. It's a must have while in Paris. 

There are Farmers Markets to see. Every single place here is amazing.

There's local playgrounds for kids to explore. 

Local Life and Hidden Gems:When I want to relax like a Parisian, I head to Canal St. Martin to picnic and people-watch by the water. I also find peace in the Jardin des Plantes or browsing the shelves of Shakespeare and Company, imagining Hemingway tucked away in a corner.To end a perfect day, I hop on a Seine River Cruise on a weekday to avoid the crowds. There’s nothing quite like eating a fresh French crêpe while watching the city sparkle from the water, passing by the resilient towers of Notre Dame & the breathtaking stained glass of Sainte Chapelle, it's a tiny but beautiful church, you really have to go upstairs to fully experience the chapel.It's a holy relic. You can learn about the stain glass & the stories that they stand for. 

There's an Opera House & there's the Opera Garnier it has a grand staircase, and the theater is done in magic & luxury. There's a chandelier above & tickets for shows must be gotten in advance.

It's such a fun place to see and explore. Soak in Paris, France's beauty. It's a trip to remember! I loved it.