Travel Tidbits: Find paradise in Paris!
Paris! A spot full of medieval landmarks and modern delights. The city of light is a wonderful destination to finish off your European cruise. How could anyone resist a place like this?
The Sites
Most people know the mainstream attractions of Paris– The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, The Louvre– but beyond these sites lie the scenes that bring the parisian essence to life. Spend a day exploring beneath the city, clambering through the Catacombs—subterranean crypts with thousands of bones, and then walk along the Seine enjoying the pop-up vendors overlooking the river. Go off the beaten path through the Jewish quarter for a stroll into a different angle of history, or embrace your inner bibliophile and visit the iconic Shakespeare and company book shop! There’s no wrong way to explore Paris, so do what feels right for you and your crew.
The Food
Alas, one cannot travel to Paris without indulging in the remarkable food scene! In this country pastries are a part of everyday life. There are numerous Patisseries and Boulangeries to choose from at all price points. From Croissants to Mille-Feuille, and Baguettes to Galettes, if you think you’ve tasted anything like this before, you will be delightfully mistaken. Tasting these edible works of art in their homeland is an experience that can ultimately change the way you look at baking!
Travel Tip: Visit Gilles Marchal in Montmartre, the Madelines are divine! Take them to the very top of this part of town and enjoy them with a view.
The Art
Last but not least, lean into your artistic self. With centuries of art that has emerged from this city, everyone is bound to find something to enjoy. In the 1920s, Paris had a roaring art scene boasting some of the world’s most avant-garde talent. While WWII separated some of the destination’s best works, Paris still revived itself again by cultivating new artists as well as welcoming back seasoned veterans. These days you can see art from nearly every time period and new works just keep coming. While Musee d’Orsay is one of the classic go-to locations for famous creations, you can also visit Marché Dauphine which is located in the heart of “Les Puces” in Paris Saint-Ouen with more than 150 vendors selling unique crafts, fashion and contemporary art. You never know what you might find!
No matter which way you decide to explore, don’t forget the Parisian way and truly enjoy yourself. Sit outdoors and watch the world go by, picnic in the park, and just dream!
Paris at sunset!
