Blogs from Acheres, Île-de-France, France, Europe

Our first full day in Paris, and it is wet and cold!... read more

The cold/flu infection from our bus tour mates has caught up on us - drained, running noses and persistent cough. We decided to use our local metro passes instead of travelling to Versailles with queues and possible thunderstorms. First, we went to the Bastille but found a disappointing column not a prison of the French Revolution- maybe a little more research required here. Next, the beautiful Sacre Coeur church and the Art Markets of Montmartre - true Paris. We rested at a sidewalk cafe and watched the 5 minute portrait and silhouette artists apply their trade. Emily was not impressed with the coffee but the German beer was great. Next, the Moulin Rouge - a bit shabby in the daytime and in an area a bit like King's Cross. We met a school group from St ... read more

Dragged our bags to Pancras station to catch the Eurostar to Paris. 2.5 hours to Paris. Caught a taxi to Hotel Duminy Vendome. Great location just a block from the Ritz and 500m to Le Louvre (Is that male or female ????) Beautiful sunny 25C afternoon to explore the Louvre - half hour wait line, a ten deep scrum for the Mona Lisa, huge and I mean huge paintings, Venus de Milo and most of Egypt's treasures. Then off to Notre Dame - impressive but could not find a hunch back anywhere. Had a Quiche Lorraine and a glazed Strawberry pastry for tea.... read more