5.12.2017 First Full Day in Paris

 

I have come to the conclusion that there is too much to do and see in one visit. Once I understood that, I was able to slow down a bit and enjoy what I was seeing in front of me, instead of all the sites I wouldn't be able to get to. I'll guess I'll just have to return again. Not a bad consolation prize. 

Learning to use the Paris metro is pretty easy, after a few tries. However, what my hubby and I learned with all the map reading is that what seems close on the map is not as close in reality. Almost missed our Eiffel Tower Tour because we came out of one of the many metro stops that are close to the tower, but ended up at a stop that is exactly opposite end than where we needed to go. Guess it was a learning experience. Must say that it was worth getting the Skip the Line Tour and Summit access for the Eiffel Tower. I know Paris is a walking city, but after running to make the tour, I didn't want to walk the hundreds of steps up.

 

At Notre Dame, my hubby and I learned that it is good practice to ignore most people that ask you if you speak English. Turned out they ask you to fill out a survey (mostly your contact info) to help a charity, then ask for money, then proceed to ask for more money. Later on, I read in my Rick Steves' Guidebook this is a common scam. At least we left before we gave them any money.

 

One thing I love about France the appreciation of beauty in multiple aspects of their life. Case in point is the Sainte Chapelle Chapel, a medieval chapel filled with stained glass. I could just stare at the walls all day. 

 

And to top off the day, the Louvre. We learned that the Louvre opens late on Wednesday and Friday nights which can be a way to beat the crowds. I don't know if its just me being on a vacation or what, but time seemed to pass by so quickly. I felt I was taking forever to do anything, but my partner in crime reminds me that its because I am savoring my experiences. Our goal was to see the 3 or 4 important works of art (Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo) and that took us about 1.5 hours. It was an awe-inspiring experience to see in real life these artworks that I've learned about in high school and college. As someone who is not creative or artistic, I am envious of anyone who has an imagination to create. It's a really gift.

Until next time,
cutiee 23