Paris
Iconic landmarks, magical moments, and very good food.
Paris was the place where the trip really shifted into high gear. One minute we were stepping off the train, and the next we were in a blur of crowds, cafés, and “wait… is that actually the Eiffel Tower?”
The crowds were constant, we walked a lot, and everything moved faster and louder than anywhere we’d been so far. But we didn’t try to cram everything in. After the day’s tour plans ended, we kept our schedule light— including a picnic below the Eiffel Tower while we waited for the lights to come on. Walking home at 11 p.m., we were amazed by how alive the city still was. Sidewalk cafés were packed, and Paris felt like it was just getting started.
Standout Moments
Riding the Paris Metro was a level up from the Tube. No English signs, and much faster doors. Once again, our guides coached us through it with deep breathing and reminders not to panic. Look at us now, experts!
We spent our free afternoon assembling a picnic from a grocery store and boulangerie and settling in near the Eiffel Tower. The crowd and the sense of anticipation grew as evening approached and everyone waited for the lights to sparkle. It turned into a late night, but one of the most magical memories of the trip.
My photos don’t do the Tuileries justice. What beautiful gardens! I'd love to return with more time to wander.
History and Culture
Seeing Notre Dame would have been special at any time, but I love that our photos include the reconstruction equipment. It captures the fact that we were there during a very specific moment in the cathedral’s long history.
Our visit to the Louvre was shorter than planned since one of us wasn’t feeling well, but it was still overwhelming and amazing. Truly, you could spend a lifetime there. Standing in front of some of the most famous pieces of art in the world felt exactly as awe-inspiring as I expected.
This statue is called "Tired Child in a Very Large Museum."
Filippos coached us on the importance of good manners in Paris— especially starting every interaction with a polite "bonjour." We were grateful for Kay’s high-school French, which helped us make an effort.
Tasting the Region
We enjoyed a group dinner that ended up being one of our favorite meals of the entire trip: duck confit, goat cheese salad, and mashed potatoes that tasted like they came straight from heaven. We also checked escargot off my personal food bucket list. I don’t remember the name of the wine we were served, but I can confirm it was excellent.
All but Evie tried the escargot.
“It wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t a 10/10.” — Juliet
“Worth the experience.”
— Chad.
Paris also excelled at snacks. The softest chocolate-chip madeleines and bright, delicious macarons (both surprise treats from our guides) disappeared quickly.
