karanoelle

It was cold and we went by car. Can’t wait to go back, by foot, in summer.

My first trip to Paris was unsettling. Getting called a “stupid American” at the top of the Eiffel Tower was the highlight.

My return trip, this past summer (2007) was considerably better. Great food, kind people (or at least folks took to ignoring me rather than yelling at me) and a new president. I spent a week exploring the city, the art, the fashion, the food (yes, frogs legs), and even took an art lesson!

LOVED – Montmarte (artsy neighborhood), Versaille, walking through the streets.

DID NOT LOVE – excess of carbs for breakfast, the smell of the Seine, although the cruise was nice.

I’d go back…if only to spend a week at the louvre!

Beautiful, especially with Fall setting in. The weather is gorgeous, and everyone is friendly – just there to enjoy the music and beer.

I did not enjoy my time at the Eiffel Tower. While we were given line privillage (part of an educational group) the crowds were rude and pushy, and the elevators were dirty, crowded, and left me feeling uneasy. If you bring children, as I did, be sure to keep an eye on them, and both hands, especially in line for the elevators. The view is beautiful, but the guards are strict and do not look kindly on Americans. Definately take the stairs down – avoid the long lines and get some great views, with the leisure to stop and really work with that camera. I plan to return next summer, so I will update. Certainly, my experience is only one of millions, and I hope next year will be better.

While we got upclose and personal with Mona Lisa, I found the Venus de Milo far more beautiful. Breathtaking even. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Be sure to visit the gardens. I think the view from behind the cathedral is one often missed, but in a way more beautiful than the more popular front facade.

Originally, I was not thrilled to be going to Ireland. I could not imagine what there was to do in a land known as being green, and home to Guiness.

I couldn’t have been more wrong – it was breathtaking. The people were warm and welcoming. The limestone, moors, ruins, beautiful shades of green, and charming small towns…it brought out the best in me. My week in Ireland was perhaps my favorite of any week I have traveled.

Over the summer as one of the last parts of our Paris itinerary. Up all those stairs, through the unforgettable (and unforgiveable) smells, past the bracelet guys, and (gasp) what a view. One of the best views in all of Paris, in my opinion.

I’ll be here! :) How awesome for my students who really can’t picture the conditions that Anne Frank and her family faced.

hit up the beaches, downtown boardwalk area, cozy up in some rental property, and check out the lighthouse.