Paris is rich in layers of history, and many sites relate to World War 2. History buffs will want to know where to find these various places that are scattered around the city. During WWII, Paris was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1944, and the city played a significant role in the war….
Reasons to visit the Eiffel Tower are many. Most obvious is that it is the iconic symbol of Paris. You’ve likely heard about and seen images of the Eiffel Tower all your life. It is more than 130 years old. And defying the critics and naysayers, it still stands tall in spite of starting life…
Planning your first trip to Paris is SO exciting! You may feel a bit like you are a kid in a candy shop. Paris offers so much in the way of iconic landmarks, distinctive architecture, castles, a winding river, historic sights, and sidewalk cafes lining the streets. These 12 tips will help you sort through…
You can enjoy this grand city, even if you have only a few hours to spend in Paris. I flew into Paris from the U.S. and spent just a late afternoon and evening before heading to Normandy the next morning. Dealing with jet lag, I still wanted to make the most of my time. It…
One difference between our travels in Europe and in the U.S. is that often breakfast is included with the stay in Europe. When we travel locally, if the room does come with breakfast, the food is likely bagels and toast and yogurt, with a bit of fruit (maybe). We’ve been known to pass up the…
Have you wondered what your family member experienced in World War II? How about about tracing World War II footsteps of your father, grandfather, uncle, or cousin? I had the wonderful privilege to follow in my dad’s path in Germany and France. It’s extremely moving. It is definitely the experience of a lifetime. I highly…
A Paris sunrise at Notre Dame is unforgettable. Notre Dame stands in the middle of the city on the island where Paris was born. It’s seen centuries of sunrises and sunsets and generations of people have walked in its shadow. On a recent trip, I decided to get up early and see the day begin…
Paris gardens beckon locals and tourists alike to sit and relax, rest your weary feet, forget the cares of the day, revel in the green of the grass and trees, and enjoy the bright-colored blooms. This being Paris, a palace may be nearby, and artistic sculptures adorn the gardens. Ponds and lakes and fountains add…
The Rodin Museum in Paris in its updated style, houses sculptures, drawings, and work in progress of Auguste Rodin. The museum is in the former Hotel Biron estate, where the artist lived for the last years of his life. The mansion was also home to painter Henri Matisse and dancer Isadora Duncan. Rodin was the…
Did you know you can climb the Eiffel Tower, going up iron stairs right up into the middle of this iconic landmark? On previous visits we had taken the elevator, which whisks you up to the two view levels. On our last visit, we decided to try something different and take the stairs. This proved…