The city of love & dreams, Paris.

Last September, I took the trip of a lifetime. I went to Europe! I finally had the chance to experience the city of Paris, a taste of the South of France and a few days in London. I remember dreaming about travelling to Europe since I was 18. I specifically wanted to go to Paris and London. In fact, I thought I would travel to London, fall in love with a man with an accent and live happily ever after there. 21 year old Brittany was a dreamer. But in all honesty, those were the two places that were always on top of my list. Most people had told me I would hate Paris and think it’s dirty while others told me London was a bore and overpriced. Word to the wise, don’t listen to anyone. You need to experience it for yourself to come to any conclusion. Paris was more than I could have imagined, it was a dream, it was a place I fell in love with, a place my heart holds dearly and it was more beautiful than I could have ever pictured.

So I will start at the beginning as most stories do, and I will give you a diary on each place I visited. My dream started with Paris and ended in London. My best friend and I had been planning on visiting Europe since we became besties in university- this is Kristyn. We talked about living in a flat together, meeting our prince charmings with accents and indulging in carb-loaded breakfasts. Finally, last year, we decided to put off Mexico in our frigid winters (it’s tough!) and go for the real deal- Europe. It was a no brainer for us that Paris and London were high on the list. We also discussed Greece, Italy, and the South of France. It is HARD to decide where you are going first when you just want to go everywhere. Ha! But sadly, work only allows us so many holidays and our bank accounts can only deplete so much.

We called up Erin, (our bestie/partner in crime/personal travel agent) and she helped us make an itinerary of what and where we are going. Our final decision was the following: Paris, Nice and London.

We chose September (2019) because it was less touristy of a season and it worked well with both our busy schedules. September had nice weather too! For some stupid reason, I thought it was a great idea to book a flight the day after a wedding I was a bridesmaid in. I was going to be in the same city as Kristyn so this way we could fly out together. Seemed like a good idea but it was tiresome. This was my first long ass flight- other than Hawaii but this tops it! 8 hours here we go. I wasn’t feeling the greatest upon leaving, I think from the stress of preparation of getting work in order, packing and committing to bridesmaid duties, from yelling and laughing at a wedding to little sleep had and emotions running high, this ALL caught up with me. I ended up taking a few Advil Cold & Sinus and I was OUT like a light on the flight.

There are/were my “tips” for a long flight:

  1. Compression Stockings- I made sure I bought the right pair and used these on flight. If you know me, I hate socks so this was a tough challenge for me. But beware of DVTs!
  2. Water- drink up! (the only time you’ll see me drink water)
  3. Joggers and a Tee for style and comfort- after all I am sleeping on a plane.
  4. Pay extra for a bigger seat and LOTS of leg room. Worth. It.

Back to Paris…

So in true Brittany style, budget realllllly wasn’t on the agenda for this trip. Someone told me; “Brit, this is a once in a lifetime trip, you deserve it!” That stuck and of course- money wasn’t going to be an issue. We don’t live to work, we work to live. Normally, I would budget my hotel and accommodations. However, Europe is VERY different. Hotels are much much smaller. We had originally booked an Air B&B but it was cancelled a few weeks prior to our trip. We then decided to use Expedia and ended up finding a last minute hotel that was safe, comfortable, close in proximity and clean. It actually was very cute. I would likely stay there again if needed, but I think next time I go I will splurge for a bit more luxury and a view of the Eiffel Tower.

We stayed at the Timhotel Opéra Grands Magasins. The one thing I told Kristyn when we were looking at hotels, was that I wanted a balcony so I can look over France, like you see Carrie, from Sex & the City. Kristyn was on board. Our hotel had exactly that. Our room consisted of one queen sized bed smack in the middle of the room, a small bathroom with a low flow toilet (the bane of my existence) and a cute balcony overlooking the streets of Paris. It was perfect for what we needed. The price point is a lot different for what you get in Europe to compared to what you could get in Vegas.

Paris was a four day adventure. We made sure to make the most of it.

Day 1:

After we had landed into Paris, it was late afternoon. The jet lag got to me and I ended up falling asleep for a few hours. Kristyn is a good travel buddy as she didn’t mind. Later on we got ourselves together and walked about to find a place to eat and have some wine. The first spot we found was called La Dauphine- it was a cute little bistro style restaurant. We chose to sit outside to enjoy charcuterie, champagne and Aperol Spritzers to really bask in true Parisian living. We had the nicest waiter who made us smile from ear to ear all night. We walked around and faintly saw the Eiffel Tower lit up in the far distance. We ended up calling it a night so we could be ready for tomorrow’s adventures.

Day 2:

One of my favourite things to do on a holiday, besides eating of course, is choosing my outfits. I LOVE fashion (somedays, you wouldn’t think so when I’m geared up in an all grey sweatsuit which is NOW in style- you’re welcome) so naturally, I brought out the berets and tried to look as Parisian as possible. (well, hey! it worked- because I got asked many times for directions!)

We started our day walking about from our hotel setting out for our adventure to the Champs D’Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower. Those were some major spots we decided we needed to hit up. It started off as a cool rainy day that morning. We ended up purchasing cheap umbrellas on the street and authentic “street” crepes. This was a must- also told by my sister in law.

We had walked the entire Champs D’Elysées and came across the infamous macaron shop; Ladurée. I last went to a Ladurée when I was in NYC. As you entered the boutique store, you see their mint green branding that trims the building, mountains of pastel macarons placed so delicately and dainty desserts of everything you can ever dream of. This is a must when visiting. You can also dine and have lunch, but unfortunately this wasn’t on our agenda. Maybe, next time! Did you really go to Paris without having macarons?

After our quick stop there, we ended up at the Arc de Triomphe. I actually LOVED this spot. It was very interesting how you actually get TO the building. You are not allowed to cross the street and say “hey, I’m here!” You actually have to find the stair cases that lead you to an underground tunnel to get to the actual Arc. I think it was around $15 CDN to tour. It consists of 284 steps. Very small, old, tattered, winding steps. It was so hot we were dripping in sweat! We had to take a break at the half way point where there was a little nook we tucked ourselves into so people could pass us. Talk about exercising on your trip. But once you are at the top, it’s a mesmerizing panoramic view where your eyes sweep the city of Paris. I loved this view the best, because you can capture the Eiffel Tower. I highly recommend hanging out there. Every inch of this building is just gorgeous and full of historic architecture.

Since the weather was rainy we decided we would cab it to the Eiffel Tower and waste less time walking so we can have more time to tour that beauty. When we arrived at the Eiffel Tower, I remember I was in awe. It was better than I had pictured. It gave me all the feels. I remember walking up to it as it got bigger and bigger and bigger while it was situated in the greenest of parks. We took the elevator to the very top (third floor) and it was like you were floating on clouds. The best part? The rain had disappeared, the grey skies turned blue and the sun was glistening over the city providing me with the most picturesque photos. Kristyn and I decided we needed to celebrate and purchased that-over-priced-champagne to cheers over the top of this magnificent city.

That evening, we attended this infamous show, Moulin Rouge. Now, not really knowing what to expect- because we had thought it was going to be a mysteriously sexy burlesque show, well it was more of a tacky-outdated-topless-with-the-strangest-of-story-lines show. We received free champagne and guzzled that down while having some good laughs. I can’t say I would see this show again. I would rather spend my money on something else. So I will be straight with you, save your money as the show isn’t really worth it. But we did look cute! Red lips and my notorious spike heels. With our buzz from the champagne, we ended up dining at a restaurant called Rouge Bis. Fantastic service and delicious steak. They’re open late and it’s just across the street! After our show and dinner (see what I did there?), we headed back to our hotel and watched French TV. We still weren’t really on a good time schedule. I found myself up until 2-3 am but waking up around 9am. I guess it’s A schedule?!

Day 3:

This day was a long tiresome day. But hella worth every bit of the foot cramps and leg pain. LOTS of walking, running, stiletto strutting- you name it, that was us. On the agenda was The Louvre, a River Cruise, and an Eiffel Tower Photoshoot.

First stop- the classic iconic breakfast in Paris. Fresh coffee and croissants out front on the street.

Next up, TO THE LOUVRE!!

The Lourvre is one of the most astonishing museums I’ve been too. It is insanely large. I don’t think we even scaled half of it or actually a quarter of it! If I had more time in Paris, I would set out at least 2-3 days minimum to explore this museum. We decided on grabbing a map and just adventuring from room to room. So first thing we do when we entered the museum, well, us, being us, trying to find the “entrance,” (I think from being overwhelmed and over excited your brain shuts down) so here we are and Kristyn telling me, “I think this is the line to get in” and I say “we are already IN!” We join this chaotic line, (like I’m talking it’s long and wide- FULL of people line), we’re standing and moving ever so slowly for a good 20-30 minutes. We’re laughing away thinking how is it THIS long to get into this place? Well, no, the lady in front of us clearly was listening in our conversation and said: “umm, this is the line for the Mona Lisa” then scowled and turned away. Okkkkkay then. Well, we were already there for 20 some minutes, might as well keep going right? Once you get caught in this line you just stay where you are. Next thing you know, it felt like a blur, the line was moving faster once you are in the room with the actual painting. The Mona Lisa is small, like realllllly small. I know people tell you that, but it’s true! I remember Kristyn and I were super excited to take a “selfie” but when it came time for us to see her, you had 10 seconds. And in that 10 seconds, SOMEHOW, we ended up separated. I took photos of Mona, I barely looked at her and I was scrambling to find Kristyn. When I found her, we were laughing and trying to get in the very front and centre to take our photo while the security guards are yelling; “NEXT”, “KEEP MOVING!” Needless to say, we managed to snap that pic. The adrenaline rush was something else. I almost feel like you don’t get to appreciate the art but rather it’s the experience to quickly get in and out of there in a matter of 10 seconds. Now that I have seen her, I can check that off my list. I don’t think I’d be bothered to go through that again, as it does suck up the time. The time you wait compared to the time you see the painting- yikes! YOLO.

After hours of touring, we ended up at the cafe that is outside of the Louvre, where we had fresh breads, cheese and champagne. It was also a much needed break with the most picturesque scenery.

After touring the Louvre, it started to rain a bit, and it took us a good time to find a cab. We were tired at this point from all the walking. We finally found a cab and headed back to our hotel. We decided that we would grab a quick bite to eat a couple blocks away from our hotel. We dined at Le Royal Trinité where we had a mini Pizette and rosé all night- because “we ain’t driving!” (Kristyn’s classic justification on how big of wine we should order.) Basking in the street noise, sipping our rosé and living this new cultured life. Life couldn’t have been better. This was perfect.

We soaked in Paris. The streets that smelt of musky cigarette smoke, listening to French conversations between people, watching the forward fashion styles peruse the sidewalks all while we sipped on our wine. We then headed back to the hotel and changed for our River Cruise and photoshoot near the Eiffel Tower. Yes, we are extra, and no I don’t care what ya’ll think!

The River Cruise is something I felt was going to be lame and touristy- well it was quite the opposite. It was surprisingly super fun, very informative and really gave me a history of Paris. I would have done this twice! You get a tour of the Seine river and see the many bridges of Paris. You’ll see Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Paris City Hall, The museum of Orsay, Place de la Concorde, the Louvre and so much more. I highly recommend this tour. We did the late night river tour at around 9pm. Later, we waited by the Eiffel Tower for their sparkling lights show. The tower sparkles every hour on the hour for 5 minutes. So you only have a certain window to catch it. We waited every hour from 10pm to midnight. The sparkling lights on the Eiffel Tower felt magical. I felt so much love and so much enigmatic energy from watching. I loved it. I truly can say Paris stole a piece of my heart.

These are some (not the greatest quality) photos from the river cruise. Because it was SO dark and I only had an iPhone for my camera, I couldn’t capture some of the things I would have loved to have. Instead, I captured our smiles and how much we enjoyed ourselves. I did snap a pic of Notre Dame- it was eerie, sad and dark. I would have LOVED to have been able to tour this cathedral but due to the fire, it was off limits.

This was probably one of my favourite moments, we did our hair super fast, (low Parisian chignon for me,) touched up our make up, put on our dresses and made our way to the Eiffel Tower. This moment was one of my favourites. I will never be able to describe the feelings but they were all there. Kristyn and I had so much fun. We even got asked to be in some photos, offered some roses, some weird shit on the streets there- all to which make for a good story/laugh!

It wasn’t until after midnight, we ended up hailing a cab and heading back to our hotel. We slipped out of our dresses, into our matching Paris PJ’s and ordered Pizza Hut while watching French Law & Order: SVU. Sometimes, there isn’t enough time in the day to eat, so we were desperate for food and Uber Eats was simple to use.

Day 4: DISNEYLAND PARIS

For anyone who thinks Disney is for kids, that is the stupidest statement out there. I think, Disney is WAY better as an adult. Many people frowned upon me for putting this on the itenary. But we knew what we wanted to do, and yes, even if it meant sacrificing a day in Paris. Sometimes you gotta be a kid again and enjoy something that makes you happy. So we took the train and off we went.

I’ve been to all of the Disney’s in North America (Cali & Florida) and the Paris Disney is completely different than those. I felt like this park was much more clean, people were friendly, it wasn’t as busy, and it felt refined. In our natural bestie state, we had to have matching tee’s for Disney. Kristyn made us these super fun “#snackgoals” tees with all of Disney’s greatest snacks. The disappointing part? I couldn’t find ANY of these snacks at the park. I wanted a Mickey shaped pretzel so bad and I couldn’t find one. I also would have taken a Mickey shaped ice cream sandy bar. Nope. There were lots of pastries like croissants and muffins, coffees and expresso but not the fatty, salty, carb loaded deliciousness you would get in North America. Oh well, truth be told, we didn’t even eat much that day. The park was only open until 8pm. So, we made the executive decision (and, bare with me, we never make the responsible decisions together, but we make the best decision as we see fit) to not eat and just jump on every ride in the park. GOALS. Plus, we did try to find chicken fingers and fries and no luck. So no food for us until after 8pm.

One of the first things we did when we arrived was grab a pair of Mickey ears. I mean, that is a MUST if you are in Disney. We chose matching rose gold sparkly ears.

The cool thing about this park, it wasn’t busy- I’m not sure if it was because of the season or maybe Disney isn’t as popular there, or if the park is smaller than the usual Disney’s- but this meant we were able to go on rides with no lines (despite the Matterhorn rollercoaster- longest wait ever) and we could come off a ride and then go back on it right away! That is my kind of deal.

I don’t have much to say on Disney other than it was SO much fun, we rode all the rides, we normally would have ate all the foods, and we lived with the magic of Disney. My favourite part was when Kristyn was skipping like a fool and asked if I was embarrassed of her? Before I could answer as I was laughing so hard, a teenager who had the most disgusted face on, beat me to the punch, and said: “I am.” Clearly, he was at that age where that wasn’t cool. HAHAHAHA oh Kristyn, what would I do without you?! Two f*cks not given.

Later that evening, we ended up getting home around 10:30pm. We changed out of Disney and decided to have our last night soaking up the Paris streets and indulging the crisp tastes of rosé. We walked about to a nearby street and found a place where we could sit down outside and take it all in one last time.

The next morning, we were off by train to Nice, France.

To be continued…

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