The Perfect Day in Paris

Hey guys!

If you read my last post you would know that I went to Paris a couple of weeks ago. The first day was amazing and it allowed me to mark “see the Eiffel Tower at night” off of my bucket list!

Day two began bright and early with breakfast at the hostel including French baguettes and Nutella. We then headed to the Eiffel Tower right as it was opening 9:30 a.m. to wait in line to go to the top. The only waited for about 30 minutes before we were allowed to take the lift to the top. You have to take two lifts to get to the very top of the tour but it is worth it for the views!

Unfortunately, it was pretty foggy and cold that morning but the views were still incredible! I am super afraid of heights so I was pretty dizzy and nauseous when we were at the top. I am so glad that I faced my fears head on! This study abroad experience has really made me realize how important it is to face your fears and follow your dreams. Every second of my study abroad adventure has been life-changing and wonderful. If you are thinking about studying abroad my advice is to just go and allow it to change your life!

After the Eiffel Tower we took some pictures and then headed towards the Arc de Triumph. We saw the Arc the day before from the bus but we wanted to see it closer. We walked past some of the most expensive shops in Paris on the way and did a little window shopping. We stopped for lunch at a café where I had a French baguette sandwich.

Our walk continued towards Notre Dame. We stopped to see sights along the way including the famous “Love Lock” Bridge. I took a few minutes to write “Hayley & Brett” on the railing. I would love to go back and with Brett and put a lock on it. He has been so supportive throughout this whole trip and I’ve really missed him!

We toured Notre Dame and even sat down to watch a service. It was so peaceful and beautiful. Even though the service was in French, I could still feel the emotion in the words. We followed everyone else by standing at the right times. It was truly an amazing and free experience!

Our next stop was Montmartre. Four years ago when we went to Paris one of our first stops was Montmartre. I remember touring the Basilica and wandering through the streets. I can still feel the excitement of getting to the end of a street and seeing the most beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower for the first time. My first view of the Eiffel Tower is such a vivid memory for me and I was hoping to recreate it this trip. But unfortunately, there was a bunch of construction that was blocking the view.

We ate at a little café where I had a Nutella crepe. They had a man playing the guitar and singing which made for the perfect French atmosphere. I really love Montmartre and I hope that someday I will be able to go back! After dinner we headed back to the hostel to sleep. The plan for Sunday was to wake up bright and early to visit the Catacombs!