7 Travel Hacks for Paris

If you’re heading to Paris I’m sure you’ve heard a lot of feedback from people who have visited the City of Light themselves. But I’m also sure you’ve heard your fair share of mixed reviews.  Chances are you’ve heard loads of praise in regards to Paris. It’s beautiful! It’s romantic! It’s breathtaking! It’s very likely you’ve also heard a decent amount of criticism too. Paris is great, but the French are rude! The City is so dirty! The list goes on and on.

The truth is, with Paris, like life, the experience is what you make it. Luckily, there are a few easy things travelers can do to ensure that they have the highest satisfaction possible. Best of all, they are super easy!

So without further ado.. Here are my top 7 Paris travel hacks to make you feel like a pro!

Set realistic expectations

Paris is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Parisians share their city with tourists from all corners of the globe (and all the languages spoken in each). There were just over 83 million foreign visitors in Paris in 2018 alone! Remember that you are a visitor here. Expecting business to be conducted in your home language is setting yourself up for failure. Luckily the French are highly skilled in English for the most part, but you will get so much further in France by making an effort in French versus leading in English. Simple phrases like Bonjour (hello), Parlez-vous Anglais? (do you speak English?), and S’il vous plait? (please) are much more likely to be met with smiles and a willingness to help than expecting locals to cater to you in your language. I’d be willing to bet that many of the people who had a bad Parisian experience made this embarrassing language faux pas.

Understand How Strikes and Protests Work and Just How Common They Are

The French strike. It’s what they do. Expect to see some evidence of a strike during your stay in Paris. A local Parisian once described protests as France’s national past time. A simple look back at French History will give insight into why the French have such an affinity for the art of protest--simply put, it works! It’s essentially like the French version of writing your Congressman. I’ve been to France when the garbage workers were on strike. As you can imagine, there was more filth on the streets then than other times I’ve visited. Other times the airlines were on strike, making the airport experience somewhat inconvenient. Most of the strikes are announced ahead of time and a simple bit of research can help you avoid any frustrations due to any strikes that might be taking place while you’re traveling. Keep an eye on any transportation you plan to use or excursions you’ve booked to avoid any unexpected delays. Another important note—while frequent, strikes and protests are rarely violent, so don’t be alarmed if you see demonstrations going on while you’re in Paris.

Pickpockets

Unlike America, pickpockets run rampant in most of Europe. Again, you are unlikely to find yourself in any physical harm, but understand, your pockets WILL be picked if you aren’t on high alert. High traffic areas like the metro are a feeding frenzy for “little fingers.” Also keep your eyes peeled at large tourist sites such as the Sacre Couer, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Where the tourists flock, so do the pick pockets. A good under-your-shirt money belt will definitely help lower your chances of becoming an easy target. Another interesting note: keep your cell-phone close. Leaving it on the edge of a table while eating or next to you on the metro is inviting theft. I once saw a poor sap get his phone snatched off a table in a restaurant while the waiter was explaining the specials. You can never be too careful. If you care about an item, don’t advertise it. Keep any valuables out of sight and secured if you want to hang on to them.

Metro

Paris is one of the easiest cities to navigate via public transportation. Between the metro, the RER, and the varied bus system, tourists have a plethora of ways to get from one side of the city to the other. For the metro, there are a few simple tricks to keep you from making amateur mistakes. Once you purchase a metro ticket, you have to scan it through a turnstile in order to enter the metro. It would be easy to think that you’re done with the ticket at that point, but don’t throw it out. Many tourists have been stopped by police officers asking for proof of fare. This is completely legal, and those who have misplaced their ticket are subject to a fine. A few etiquette tips will make a huge difference in your metro experience as well. Always offer your seat (if you have one) to anyone who is elderly or has disabilities, particularly if seats are few and far between. Also, try not to board the metro until everyone exiting the train has done so first. There are small hinged seats next to the door on most metros. Avoid using them if the train is overly-crowded. They take up valuable standing room and you can come off looking rude if you use them and take up precious space.

Money

We already mentioned that keeping a money belt below your clothing is a good idea, but that is just one aspect of being money conscious in Paris. Paris is very credit card friendly, but if you are using your normal credit card from home, be aware that there can be fees for every swipe if you aren’t careful that can add up quick. Not only does your bank charge a fee, you will face foreign transaction fees per swipe as well. If you’re dead set on using plastic for the majority of your purchases, it would be a good idea to invest in a card that has zero foreign transaction fees. My go to cards for international travel are the Capital One Venture Card, and the Chase Business Ink. Make sure that you also report international travel dates to your bank before you leave to avoid having your card frozen while abroad. I also suggest changing foreign currency at your home bank a few weeks before you depart. Take anywhere from $60-150 with you in local currency. Once you are in Paris, you can easily access ATMs for any additional cash you might need. Be aware, both your bank and local ATMs will charge you an exchange fee, so you will want to budget what you need and keep your ATM transactions to a minimum to avoid those unnecessary fees. The worst place to convert money is the airport, so plan on exchanging money before you leave, or at an ATM once while in Paris.

Tipping

If you have a tour guide during any part of your trip to Paris, just know that it is customary to tip 1-2 euros after any guided tours. Similarly, you’ll want to tip any bus drivers (particularly ones who handle your luggage) for their services. We usually suggest $3 per driver per day of service. If you have a helpful waiter, they will certainly appreciate a few euros for good service as well. Some restaurant receipts will include a service fee (service compris). Conversely, some may indicate a service fee is not included (service non compris) in which case, you are free to tip. Be aware that waiters aren’t reliant on tips as their sole source of income the way American waiters are. However, a tip for good service is always appreciated and for some services, the tourism industry for example, it’s expected.

Street Vendors and Scammers

While in Paris, you will no doubt run into street vendors. If they are selling items along the street, Eiffel Tower Keychains, Knock-off purses and the like, just be aware, it is illegal to purchase their goods--mostly because they are not operating legitimate businesses or paying taxes. Anywhere that is a highly trafficked tourist area, you’ll see hundreds of them. You’ll often see them gather up their items in a drawstring sack if they see a police officer coming. While uncommon, tourists can be fined for purchasing from them so be aware of the risks. Keep an eye out for thieves and scammers as well. Some will try to get you to bet on card tricks, or request money for a bracelet they’ve placed on your wrist, or offer you a flower and then expect payment--just be aware, they are likely a distraction for scammers and thieves. The best thing to do is refuse to interact with them.

Obviously, there is so much more to traveling in Paris than can be explored in this blog, but hopefully this will at least give you a leg up and keep you from looking like a total noob while visiting the City of Light. If you are looking for fun things to do while in Paris, feel free to take a look at our itinerary. These are only just some of the highlights, but it will give you an idea of how much time to allot at each location and how to pace yourself.

While in Paris, just remember to be polite and have a good attitude and you’re sure to have a marvelous time! Happy travels!

What To Pack (Paris Edition)

So you’re going to Paris? SCORE! The City of Light is a crowd pleaser and every bit as magical as you imagine it’s going to be. From the magnificent Eiffel Tower, the mysterious Mona Lisa to the glorious Palace of Versailles, the city is sure to take your breath away.

While you’re sure you will have a great time, what you may not be so sure about is how to pack. Not to worry, we’ve got you!

Since we are heading there ourselves in March, I’m going to focus this packing list on spring travel in Paris. The weather is all over the place in Paris regardless of the time of year, but you can expect spring in Paris to involve cooler temps and rain.

When tackling a large task like packing, remember to pack light. Bring along layers versus large bulkier outerwear. Parisians are also fashion savvy, so if you don’t want to stick out as a tourist leave the baggy pants and sneakers at home. Also keep in mind that you’ll be hauling your luggage all over the place, not just on the plane, so keep it simple!

My suggestion is always to condense your necessary items into a carry-on size bag if possible. This lowers the risk of your bag getting lost or delayed. You will just want to make sure the bag meets the dimension requirements for the airline you’re traveling with.

If you are traveling with us, you can read up on Delta’s dimension requirements here.

Here is a list of essential items you won’t want to forget to pack.

Travel Aids

·         Chewing gum

·         Meds for motion sickness and sleep

·         Travel Pillow

·         (The airplane will likely supply earplugs, headphones, and a sleep mask so you can leave those at home unless you are partial to your own).

Clothing and Accessories

·         Comfortable walking shoes

·         Shirts (short and long sleeved) Think layers!

·         Socks and underwear/bras (thermals too!)

·         Watch

·         Jewelry

·         Pants/jeans

·         Pajamas

·         Glasses/contacts

·         Sunglasses

·         Belts

·         Dressier outfit

·         Raincoat and/or umbrella 

·         Warm waterproof jacket/fleece

·         Jackets/Gloves/Scarves

·         Collapsible tote/duffel bag for dirty clothes, souvenirs (if only using a carry-on)

·         Luggage tags

·         Journal (if planning to document your trip)

·         Backpack or daybag

Toiletries

·         Toothbrush

·         Toothpaste

·         Floss

·         Mouthwash

·         Shampoo/conditioner

·         Soap

·         Deodorant

·         Hairbrush/comb

·         Hand sanitizer

·         Straightener/curling iron (If you have wattage converter-France uses 230 Voltz)

·         Hair styling products

·         Hair accessories

·         Cleanser

·         Moisturizer

·         Shaving Cream

·         Razor

·         Perfume/Cologne

·         Makeup

·         Makeup Remover

·         Feminine Hygiene Products (if applicable)

·         Nail clippers

·         Nail File

·         Hand wipes

·         Tweezers

·         Cotton swabs

·         Tissues

·         Lint Roller

·         First Aid Kit/Band Aids

·         Lip Balm

·         Washcloths (not standard in European hotels)

·         Any medications (in addition to a copy of any prescription)

·         Spare set of contact lenses/glasses (if applicable)

·         Saline Solution (if applicable)

Money

·         ATM card (Call your bank prior to departure to alert them of the trip; foreign purchases sometimes result in a hold on bank accounts.)

·         Personal credit card (also make sure to notify lender of your travel plans)

·         At least $50 converted to the currency of the first country that you’re visiting (France is on the Euro)

·         Pouch for storing money and passport under clothing

Electronics/Technology

·         An alarm clock (Many hotel rooms won't have one.)

·         An adaptor/converter (Iceland uses type C and E outlet plugs. More info here.)

·         Camera with extra batteries or charger

·         Cell phone and charger (external chargers are worth the investment too!)   

Documents

·         Passport—(Remember to leave one copy of it at home and bring a couple more copies on tour, in case your passport gets lost.)

·         Emergency contact information

·         A copy of your medical insurance card (and trip insurance if you’ve purchased it)

·         A copy of the tour itinerary

·         A list of important phone numbers 

·         Addresses to send postcards home

·         Copy of any prescriptions (Customs officials may want to verify that a container's contents match its label, so all medication should be carried in its original container.)

·         List of medications/prescriptions

Carry-on bag

Here’s a short list of things travelers might need on the first day of the trip. These should be packed in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed:

·         Passport

·         Money

·         Money Belt

·         Airline boarding pass

·         Toothbrush and toothpaste (Check tsa.gov for current security requirements.)

·         Hairbrush

·         Contact lens case/glasses (to sleep comfortably on the plane)

·         A change of clothes (in case luggage is delayed)

·         Medication

·         Any valuables

* If traveling with Land + See, we will do a full day of touring when we first arrive in Paris, so pack anything in your carry-on that you might need for that first day. We won’t check into the hotel until late in the evening.

Hopefully this helps ease the burden of knowing exactly what to pack. You know yourself and what you need so if you see something on the list you know you just won't need, skip it! Now that you're done packing, let's get back to our countdown! If you're like me, you've got this itinerary pinned already and you check it daily, but I'll throw it on here anyway so you can get in the Parisian groove! Paris + Amsterdam

Let the countdown begin!

Our Top 10 Travel Photos (Part One)

Travel certainly makes me feel alive. Sometimes I want to pinch myself because I can't believe what a dream my life has become.. and all because of travel. If you would've told me 10 years ago what my life would look like, I probably wouldn't have believed you. It's not too good to be true, it's not some magic elixir. It takes hard work and sacrifice, but it's completely possible to have your cake and eat it too. I've stumbled upon something that truly makes my heart happy and I want to shout it from the rooftops so that others can live their dreams too.

So along that vein, here is a walk down memory lane. These are some of my favorite travel photos from our recent adventures. Notice, I've named it "part one" because it was SO hard to choose just 10. Be on the lookout for more travel photo related blogs in the future. And until then.. take a look at our photo gallery. 

Without further ado, here are our top 10 travel photos... so far :)

1. Trevi Fountain, Rome

This is one of my favorites because it really captures the feeling of the moment--pure joy! Here we are throwing coins into the newly renovated Trevi Fountain, cashing in on the saying that promises a return to Rome to those that toss in a coin. To date I've tossed in 3 coins and the promise hasn't failed me yet. I'm so pumped to be headed back next summer. You can check out the itinerary here if you feel so inclined. The beautiful lady to my left is our guide, Elena. She really made our trip special because of her love of life, constant upbeat personality and love of travel. We are kindred spirits for sure!

2. Arc de Triomph, Tour de France, Paris

This one captures my whole heart. I love this picture so much I have it hanging in my house. This trip was incredibly special for so many reasons. It was Roman's first international trip (he was such a trooper), and as an avid cyclist, it was the fulfillment of one of Jordan's lifelong dreams--to attend the Tour de France. It was incredibly special for him to share this moment with his firstborn son. This particular year was the 100th annual Tour de France, so the country went all out! There were jet planes flying overhead spouting plumes of red, white, and blue in their jet streams, the Arch was turned into an illuminated light show the likes of which I've never seen before. It was incredible. The winner was Chris Froome. Paris will always hold a special place in my heart, and this was an awesome way to experience it for the first time. I've been back several times since and it lives up to every single magical expectation, time after time. While the Tour de France won't be taking place when we return next March, we will definitely hit the Arch of Triumph again, along with many, many more Parisian highlights. Check it out here.  

3. Segrada Familia, Barcelona

There's nothing quite like experiencing living, breathing history being made right before your eyes. This photo is outside of the Segrada Familia, a masterpiece of art and architecture melded into one, by none other than Gaudi himself. It was breathtaking to watch as this centuries old masterpiece is still being constructed. Gaudi has his hand in so many corners of Barcelona. He really gives the city it's eclectic feeling and nowhere is that more apparent than at this magnificent cathedral. I can't wait to go again and see how it continues to progress. 

4. Stonehenge, England

This was a lucky shot captured during a long layover in England. We had just enough time to rent a car and drive out to Stonehenge before heading off to our final destination. While driving on the opposite-side of the rode felt much like taking our lives into our hands, especially while being so jetlagged, we were soon rewarded. It was unreal to drive down the country road and BOOM, there is Stonehenge off to the side. I had a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that was someone's morning commute every day. 

5. Hot Air Balloon, Dubai

This was my number one bucket list item, believe it or not! I will forever have warm fuzzies about this dream come true. This was Christmas Eve, and we took a 4 am Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Dubai desert. We watched the sun rise, we rode over camel farms and had a crash landing--all before lunch time. This was definitely one of the most amazing moments of my travels over the years. Fun fact: my sunglasses fell off my head as we were landing this baby and I thought they were gone forever. Luckily enough, I found them only a few hundred feet away and unscathed. 

6. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

This has to have been one of the most surreal experiences of our entire lives, travel or otherwise. I'd always wanted to visit the Pyramids in Egypt, and we finally got an inexpensive chance when we were visiting Jordan's parents in Dubai. We booked a cheap, economy flight and a budget-friendly hotel and off we went. Amid recent turmoil we found ourselves as the only tourists in the area. This is a picture of the most mind-blowing moment where passersby wanted a picture of us, and not the beautiful background. I would highly recommend Egypt to any adventurous travelers out there. It is a country rich in history and art with so much to offer, no waiting in line, and a warm welcome from everyone. 

7. Fish Pedicure, Athens

This tops my list of weirdest life experiences. On a lunch break in Athens, we passed a shop that gave fish pedicures. If you know me, you may know I have an irrational fear of freshwater fish.. don't ask.. it's irrational. This was quite the hurdle for me as it both explores a cultural curiosity and conquers a lifelong fear. The fish basically eat all the dead skin off of your feet. I'm not sure how hygienic it is, especially considering the fact that it is outlawed in many countries, but all in all, it was a cool experience,  and if you are wondering.. it tickles like hell! While this excursion isn't exactly listed on the itinerary, we could probably squeeze it in. 

8. Gondola Ride, Venice

Who hasn't dreamed of riding in a gondola since they were a little kid? I certainly did, and let me tell you, it lived up to every single expectation. Winding through the narrow canals and listening to everyday life happening in the balconies and windows above is surreal. I love experiencing other people's worlds, if even just for an afternoon. Although it wasn't planned, I enjoyed that our gondola driver and I had coordinated outfits. As I was 7 months pregnant on this trip, I especially appreciated this moment to get off my feet and relax, the Venetian way. 

9. Nice, France

I think everyone on this trip could agree that the evening we spent exploring Nice was one of the highlights of our travels. Watching the sun set over the pebbled beach was beautiful beyond words. While we did misplace our GoPro camera this night, it didn't taint the joy we felt this entire day. I think most of us started planning our return trip that night. I especially loved that two of my besties were with me on this trip. These two lovely ladies have been such beautiful additions to my life, and I consider them two of my best friends, and we wouldn't be what we are if it weren't for travel. They say, friends who travel together, stick together.

10. Zaanse Schans, Windmill Village, Netherlands

This was from our most recent travel adventure to Amsterdam. We were celebrating our anniversary and this windmill village was the highlight of the trip. It was beyond quaint. We watched a clog-making demonstration, we sampled gouda cheese and chocolate, and we explored the winding pathways and ivy-clad cottages of this fully operational village. It wasn't just a tourist trap, it's an actual town where people still live and it's a definite must see on our upcoming tour back to Amsterdam. 

Travel doesn't have to be out of reach. It does take some prioritizing and planning, but it's totally achievable, even on a limited budget like ours. Take a look at some of our upcoming tours, and start living your dreams today. 

An In-Depth Look at Day 2 in Paris

My favorite day on tour is always, without-a-doubt, Day 2. It doesn’t matter the destination, Day 2 has its own special je ne c’est quoi. You’ve been flying all night, sometimes binging on movies, sometimes chatting with your fellow travelers, or maybe, if you’re lucky, you’ve been snoozing. But, whatever your flying habits, at this point the trip somehow tends to feel intangible still…that is, until Day 2. You’re groggy, you’re excited, and you’re finally here after all the months of preparation and anticipation. You’ve gotten that magical passport stamp and off you go! There is always an otherworldly feeling associated with the first full day on tour. If it’s your first time to Europe, especially, there’s an unreal Disney-like quality to stepping onto cobblestone streets older than your entire country. You know its Europe, but you might need someone to pinch you, just to make sure!

This particular tour is going to knock your socks off on day 2! You can check out the full itinerary by clicking here. It says, “Take a walking tour of the Latin Quarter and visit Notre Dame Cathedral. Conclude the evening with a trip up the Eiffel tower and watch Paris come alive at night.” That’s awfully vague isn’t it? Here is a deeper look into what we will actually be doing on Day 2, and why you shouldn’t miss out!

From the airport, we hit the ground running. We will be taking a walking tour of the famous Latin Quarter, the heart of Paris, and home to the world-famous Sorbonne University, founded in 1257! A fun fact is that all University studies are free of charge in France, as well as much of the rest of Europe, so you will find students from all over the world studying here and a variety of languages spoken.

You can read about Paris, and you can hear other people talk about it. You can even soak in gorgeous photos and think you have a good grasp on what it will be like, but nothing beats walking along its winding streets and experiencing it firsthand.

The Latin Quarter is one of my favorites. Close to the epicenter of Paris, located along the left bank of the Seine, it’s a bustling hub with people going every which way. I love watching the hustle and bustle of the streets filled with students, artists and tourists going about their daily lives. Paris is alive, and nowhere is that more apparent than the Latin Quarter. It’s a great place to grab an inexpensive cup of coffee and people watch. Another fun thing I like to do in the Latin Quarter is to stop by the Shakespeare and Co. bookstore, a longtime fixture in the Paris community. Pick up a second-hand book for that book lover in your life, or snag one for yourself as a souvenir. I scored a copy of “Taming of the Shrew” by William Shakespeare on my last visit, and it’s one of my favorite travel treasures to date.

After getting oriented to the city on foot we will have a little free time to grab a bite to eat. I suggest trying a savory crepe, or a ham and cheese baguette at one of the local bakeries. They are made fresh and rival any baked goods found at home.

After lunch we will cross the river to the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral and take a tour of its breathtaking interior. Visitors can pay a euro or two and light a candle from inside and watch as this fully operational cathedral brings in both tourists and local worshipers from in and around the city. I think sometimes it’s easy to see this as a historical landmark only, but once inside, you really see it for the holy and reverent place of worship that it is.  

As a kid I loved the movie, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and the first time I visited the cathedral in real life it was amazing how familiar it felt, having been so immortalized in so many movies, books and even TV shows. It’s hard to describe the feeling you get when you visit something so famous for the first time—it’s a mix of familiarity and coming home, and yet it’s new and exciting all at the same time. As an extra treat, Notre Dame has some of the most beautiful stained glass windows I’ve ever seen. It’s a postcard perfect photo op that your friends will have a hard time believing you snapped on your IPhone.

After the Cathedral we will take a short walk to the Love Lock Bridge, where people from all over the world leave a piece of their love. On our first trip to Paris, Jordan, Roman, and I painted our names and the date on a lock with the intention of leaving our mark there forever. The only problem was, I accidently left the key back home in Tennessee and we had no way to lock it on. Amateurs! Lucky for us, there was many-a local just waiting to capitalize on our mistake, and one that I can assume many others make, as there were plenty of vendors to choose from to buy a replacement lock. Crisis averted, we purchased a second lock and took a picture as we tossed the keys into the Seine. No one needed to know they weren’t the actual keys. Haha!

From here we will head to our hotel and get settled in our rooms. After a quick refresh, we will head out to dinner and then off to the Eiffel Tower!!

There are few things in this world as pleasantly surprising as the Eiffel Tower at night. Many travelers are unaware that it sparkles every hour on the hour past dusk. Its illumination is always met with shouts of surprise and awe by street goers. It’s easy to lose yourself in the magic of it all. Once on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, we will take in the city skyline at night. There is no view in all of Paris as gorgeous as the one atop the Eiffel Tower. If you are brave, and even if you aren’t, you will thank yourself for taking a trip to the very top. From the top floor of the Eiffel Tower, the world below becomes a blur. It’s such a calm, serene and intimate moment with anyone you choose to share it with.

One thing Jordan and I like to reminisce on is our first night on the Eiffel Tower. His parents took Roman for the night so we could have a date, and we climbed every stair ourselves and shared a victory bottle of champagne at the top. It was so romantic! I highly recommend both the climbing and the champagning for anyone looking to get the full Parisian experience ;)

From here we will head back to our hotel and get a good night’s rest after the dream that was Day 2. Make sure you get your zzz’s in before hitting the streets again for another full day of exploring on Day 3! For novice travelers it might be hard to believe that this night could ever be topped. But this is only Day 2! Buckle up as there is plenty more to come.

The Top 6 Things to See in Paris (Because let's be honest, picking only 5 is too hard)

With millions of traveler’s visiting Paris every year it’s understandable why many of its landmarks are some of the top tourist attractions in the world (with good reason). First time visitors can often be overwhelmed trying to prioritize which attractions to visit and how long to spend at each one. We hope this list helps you identify those that might capture a little piece of your heart, and make you leave saying, “Paris Je T’aime!”

#6 – The Palace of Versailles

This one hits number six on our list because of its sheer beauty and historical significance. No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to this glorious work of architectural majesty, commissioned by King Louis XIV himself as a home-away-from-home, and located just outside the city center. The luxury and opulence is on display from first arrival as even the entry gate is overlaid with pure gold—It’s no wonder the French people took issue with such excess with times as hard as they were. See both Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette’s private chambers and take a stroll through the glorious Hall of Mirrors. The palace is home to an impressive art collection including “The Coronation of Napoleon in Notre Dame” and was the site of the signing of the famous Treaty of Versailles, the document officially ending WWI. Complete your tour with a stroll through the Palace Gardens. There you will find a seemingly endless labyrinth of fountains, flowers and sculptures as far as the eye can see. It’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon and enjoy a nice ice cream cone or some freshly-made macarons, both readily available on the grounds. Make sure you set aside a few hours to really take in this glorious work of art.

#5 Notre Dame de Paris

If you’re in Paris you cannot miss the glorious Notre Dame! Known affectionately as “Our Lady of Paris,” this titan of French gothic-style architecture will leave you speechless. Explore the cathedral and see why it inspired Victor Hugo’s “Hunchback of Notre Dame.” From the stained-glass windows, to the naturalist sculptures, and significant religious relics, it’s no wonder why this Cathedral comes in at the top of the list as the most visited church in the world. For a few euros, travelers can even climb to the top of the tower and take in a breathtaking panorama of the city skyline. For the romantic-at-heart, lovers can leave their mark on the famous love-lock bridge nearby by placing a padlock on its rails. It is said that throwing the key into the Seine represents an unbreakable love. While the government has been cracking down on this practice lately, you can still see rebellious lovers carrying on the tradition and further solidifying Paris as the city of love.  

#4 Louvre Museum

At number four we have the Louvre Museum in the heart of the 1st arrondissement. Because of the high number of visitors it attracts, it has been named most visited museum in the world.  With over 300,000 pieces of art in its collection, 38,000 of which are on public display, it’s easy to see why the Louvre attracts so many art lovers each year. Among the most famous works visitors can admire are da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. You’ll definitely want to set aside a few hours to explore this vast museum. The collection includes antiquities from the ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan civilizations, a vast array of prints, drawings and sculptures, decorative arts and so much more. There is something for everyone. Visitors can do a little shopping or grab a quick bite to eat at any of the shops and cafes located just below the museum. The building itself is housed in the former Royal Palace and the various wings are set up along the former Royal Apartments throughout. Make sure you take time to explore the vast Tuileries Garden just outside the Museum as well. The garden stretches all the way from the iconic glass pyramid to the Place de la Concorde. The Egyptian obelisk in the square stands in place of the guillotine that took both Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette’s head. Visitors today will notice breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and the carousel as they take a relaxing stroll through the garden.

#3 Montmartre

One of the most quintessentially Parisian experiences is taking a stroll through Montmartre, a section of the city located atop a hill in Paris’s 18th arrondissement. Montmartre and has a rich artistic history mostly due to the famous artists that once inhabited its streets. Home to artists such Monet, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso and van Gogh, Montmartre is oozing with artistic inspiration and creativity. Take time to visit the Sacre-Couer Basilica or “Sacred Heart” located on the highest point in the city, and serving as a stark contrast to the rebellious neighborhood it sits amongst. Visitors can also visit the famous Moulin Rouge, the birthplace of the Can-Can dance, and inspiration for Baz Luhrman’s film “Moulin Rouge.” Montmartre is the Paris most visitors come to see, an endless array of street performers, artist and musicians. Soak it all in as you sit at a streetside café watching the city come alive.

#2 Eiffel Tower

Our number two comes at no surprise. No trip to Paris would be complete without a stop to the most iconic structure in the world, the Eiffel Tower. Visitors can view it from many spots in Paris, from the street, a café window, a rooftop terrace, from the Seine, along the Champs Elysees, but nothing rivals a trip to the top! Travelers have two options to ascend this mighty structure: by lift, or by tackling it’s 669 stairs on foot! This trek is not for the feeble, but will be worth every single sore muscle! Those that brave the climb will be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views of the city, and one that can’t be seen from anywhere else in Paris. Nighttime visitors will get to witness as the tower comes alive, sparkling every hour on the hour. Enjoy a glass of champagne from the first floor or book a reservation in advance at the world famous restaurant 58 Tour Eiffel. Few experiences will rival the Eiffel Tower, so make sure you add it to the top of your list if you plan to visit Paris.

#1 Catacombs

Our number one location in Paris may come as a surprise. While it is on the macabre side, the underground Catacombs de Paris are a MUST SEE! Located deep below the city streets, this underground ossuary houses the remains of over six million people.  Serving as resolution to Paris’s overflowing cemeteries during mid-to-late 1700s and its literal lack of after-life real estate, the Catacombs were created in the former mines that tunnel for miles underneath the city. The walls are constructed with actual human remains with femurs and skulls lining the walls from floor to ceiling. While this may seem like something out of a horror film, visitors will find the catacombs oddly serene. Public events are sometimes held in these subterranean caverns, offsetting the ominous feeling one might typically associate with a venue of this nature. Visitors should plan on spending roughly an hour on this tour, and should get in line early, as this not-so-secret treasure has become a bit of a hot spot lately.

With so many amazing possibilities, it’s no wonder Paris is one of the top tourist spots in the world. One thing’s for sure, you can’t go wrong with Paris. Whether you are on a long layover, or have set aside a week or more, you will be sure to have a plethora of once-in-a-lifetime experiences to choose from. For more inspiration head to our Paris + Amsterdam itinerary at www.landandseetours.com/paris.

Happy travels!

Mystery Man

Somewhere out there is a man who has no idea how our chance encounter has altered my life (and maybe a few others too). I don’t know where he lives, what he’s doing now. Hell, I don’t even remember his name—but I do know I’m grateful we randomly met.

He was assigned the seat next to mine on a 9 hour flight to Rome. I felt bad for him. I’m sure he hadn’t bargained for such a long-haul sitting next to a 5-month-old and a stressed-out new mom covered in baby puke. Poor guy. Naturally we got to talking and I asked him why he was traveling to Rome. Turns out he wasn’t. It was just a stopover on a trip to Amsterdam to see the Tulips—he and 30 other passengers. I was flabbergasted. It got better. Not only was he traveling with 30 other people, they were senior citizens and he was LEADING them through Europe. I didn’t even know people did that.

He was raised on a farm, got married young and naturally became a farmer himself. He saw that as his bread and butter and his way of life until noticing a huge void in the senior community in his town. He was from somewhere in the Midwest and wanted to make a difference so he started by hiring buses and taking seniors on day trips to get them out and about. From there it grew into a full-fledged tour company and he had entirely devoted his life to connecting people with the world around them, personally escorting them every step of the way. I’ll never forget what he said. He said, “I was a farmer. I have no education, but I’ve seen the entire world and now I get to share that with other people. Do you have any idea how fulfilling that is?” Talk about living your dreams, right? He asked me, “What are you doing with your life?” I took a hard swallow and said I was a high school English teacher, feeling suddenly unimpressed with myself. “Perfect,” he said. “You need to start sharing the world with your kids. If someone like me can do it, what kind of an impact can someone like you make? You have your whole life ahead of you.”

He praised me for my bravery in taking a 5-month-old to see the world and encouraged me not to stop there. At the time I was embarking on what I believed to be my last trip to Europe. I’d been once before in high school and had high hopes of becoming a world traveler. I promised myself that one day I’d go back. But one day turned into one year and slowly life began to happen. Before I knew it I was married and had a baby on the way. Society told me my chance was gone. We praise the young unattached twenty-somethings, encouraging them to seize the day while they can and explore and so on, but once motherhood calls, we are supposed to kill that hunger to roam and replace it with an urge to compete with other mothers about who’s birthday party was the most pinterest-worthy, who breast-fed longer, and who sacrifices more for their children. It’s a great calling, don’t get me wrong, but I never considered that there was an alternative way—that I could (with more bags and more work) wrangle my own children and traipse through foreign lands. I especially didn’t think I could do it with other people’s kids. Was it a lot of work? Totally! Was it worth every hassle? 100%!!

The mystery man and I exchanged pleasantries the rest of the flight, but his words stayed with me. What was I doing with my life? Is it really possible to share the world with kids like that? Senior citizens, sure, but students?

It took me a little over a year to work up enough courage to take my first trip, and also a gentle nudge from a colleague, but I took the leap and it has turned out to be one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I used other tour companies as a crutch at first, believing that I needed them as a security blanket, that I was just some frail little woman who needed their knowledge of all things travel. It didn’t matter that I had over 15 years of travel experience or that I’d lived abroad for a year. One day, with another gentle nudge, this time from my husband, it hit me. They are just dudes in a cubicle. They are no different than I am. The only thing that separates me from that man on the flight is that when my dreams come knocking, fear makes me ask them to come back another day. I was tired of paying big bucks for someone else to do something I enjoyed so much—the planning was the fun part. Deciding where to go, what untouched gems to discover, local traditions to learn from, flavors to taste for the first time—these are the things I love, and things I totally didn’t have a hand in when I was outsourcing tours to someone else—I was petrified that I wasn’t worthy.

Sixteen countries later and my very own tour company and I can’t believe I ever worried that one trip was going to be my last. But collecting stamps in my passport is hardly the best part. By far the travelers are what make the experiences so worthwhile.

Watching travelers is hard to describe. It warms places in my heart I didn’t even know I had. I’ve witnessed many beautiful moments while traveling. Here are a few of my favorites. I had the privilege of watching a dear friend of mine come alive after heartbreak, realizing her life isn’t over just because her marriage was. She took a huge leap in coming on the tour and watching her take the reins of her life—refusing to be a bystander--was a beautiful thing to witness. Another great memory was watching a couple on the brink of divorce rekindle their love for one another while on tour and rebuild a strong and healthy foundation for their family. I’ve seen strangers take on other travelers as their own children when they were in a tough spot or low on money. I’ve seen beautiful friendships (that would NEVER happen in a traditional school setting) develop and blossom as a result of travel. I’ve seen students who receive special services absolutely flourish with self-confidence and adaptability as a result of travel.  Barriers are broken down. People are challenged, and they ALWAYS rise.

I could go on and on, but I promise I won’t. I have been able to truly realize how blessed I am because of the experiences and connections travel has helped me form with students, friends, family, and strangers who become some form of all of these things. If you have traveled with me or entrusted your children to my care: THANK YOU! You guys are amazing! I truly believe that giving your kids the experience of travel is setting them up for a lifetime of success. Also, those that invest in themselves and travel know what life is all about: people, history, culture, connections—you name it, travel does it!

I wish I could find that man and thank him, but the likelihood of that happening is slim—believe me, I’ve spent hours randomly searching “Midwest Senior Travel Company” and scouring pictures on the internet hoping to catch a glimpse of a familiar face. My students, friends and anyone who has traveled with me and benefitted from travel have him to thank! I wish I could tell him to his face, but since I can’t—let’s honor him by living our own lives to the fullest every day. Whatever that means to you, get out there and DO IT! For me, that’s sharing the world, one person at a time. If that sounds like your cup of tea too, come with me! Seriously. No catch. Just us making the world our oyster. We may know each other well, we may just be acquaintances, or total strangers, but I know after traveling we will all feel like family.