A weekend in Paris (Part 1)

Ma Maman.
Have ticket.  Will Travel.

Bonjour, Mes Amies!  Last Thursday, we joined Mom & Mr. B for their first trip to Paris via Eurostar!

I just love to travel by train.  We sat at a table for four so we were able to chat (the guys) and giggle (the girls).  By the time we were out of London we had made the five-car trek to the snack bar. I can't resist their toasted ham & cheese sandwiches with a little mini bottle of wine.

We arrived in Paris at dusk and headed to our hotel via the subway (Metro).  Riding in the Metro in Paris is an experience.  Not a good one, but it is an experience.  

Our hotel, the Ares Eiffel, was terrific... comfortable, clean rooms and friendly service. After dropping off our bags we went out for a stroll.  It was fun to turn a corner, point to our left

and surprise them with their first view of the Eiffel Tower all lit up. 

We purchased a two day bus pass for the open top tour bus.  It was expensive but we used it both days to get around and got our money's worth.  It was fun to ride around and people watch.  The audio-guide played French tunes between commentary which added to the flavor of the city. 

I know the bus tour may seem a little cheesy and touristy, but we find it a great way to squeeze the most into a weekend.  Especially on an initial visit to help you get your bearings in a new city.  It gives a good overview of all the major landmarks and then you can decide which areas you want to explore a little further.

(Just remember not to yell when you have your earplugs in.  

Not gonna mention any names. )

This is the Pont des Arts in front of the Institut de France.  Lovers attach a padlock to metal rails of the bridge and toss the key into the Siene to profess their undying love for each other.  Le sigh... so romantical!

Momma & Bob can now check Paris off of their list. 

It was a little cloudy on Saturday, but you can see the sun came out on Sunday.  It was beautiful, crisp Fall (Autumn) weather.  

And, of course, we had to get the quintessential tourist shot of my strong Mom holding up the tower.  

I was actually feeling a little under the weather over the weekend so didn't take as many pictures as usual.

(You know I'm sick when I don't want to even take pictures.)

But, I do have some more I will share with you over the next few days.

We just made the trek to Heathrow this morning

to drop them off as they head back to Texas.

Saying goodbye never gets easier, does it?

I'm feeling melancholy,

just piddling around the apartment that feels especially empty today.

Mom & Mr. B, I love you both dearly!

Thank you so much for visiting and making the past two weeks so much fun!!

I will miss you every day until we are together again.

I miss you already, Momma.

xoxo

Selena