To Voyage Without Fear
The Land of the Cathars, or as it is more modernly known, Southwest France, is a breathtaking corner of France even in the depths of winter. History comes alive, the wine flows like water, and the people are friendlier than I could ever imagine...
Leaving the frigid city blocks of Oslo, it was time to head south and gain some altitude. We took a short plane journey over to Paris for the next leg of our trip. Unfortunately, we wouldn’t be spending anytime in my favorite city, as not long after our plane landed, we were on a high... Continue Reading →
The morning of September 20 found us dragging our luggage across Montreuil, clambering onto buses, and making our way to the International Coach Station at Gallieni. We would be taking a bus from Paris to London. Originally assuming that we would take the train, we quickly changed our minds when we saw the prices. Trains... Continue Reading →
The first twenty four hours in a foreign country is a steep learning curve, and I have learned to never judge a place until you’ve spent more than a day there. Given a bit of time, you will learn how to get around, what to eat, what to say and do, etc. That being said,... Continue Reading →
Paris is a city of contradictions. Tiny lanes and alleyways turn into wide, open boulevards. Cramped city streets lead to sprawling parks with elegant landscaping. The stereotype of the rude Parisian battles the reality of the warm and helpful local. Ancient cathedrals stand converted into monuments to the secular Republic, consequences of the French Revolution.... Continue Reading →
On Sunday morning, I woke up early and feeling refreshed, and quickly ran out the door to head to mass at Notre Dame cathedral. I had passed by the beautiful yet imposing building many times already during my visit, warily eyeing the long lines and anticipating this moment. I took the metro, purchasing a... Continue Reading →
I was arguably most excited to visit the Musee des Art Forains, a private fairground museum in the Beray neighborhood of Paris. The museum had rebuilt a European fairground from La Belle Epoque, and given my fascination with old circuses, carnivals, and fairs, I had to see it. After a rushed breakfast, I hopped... Continue Reading →
Friday was Versailles, the Trianons, and Marie Antoinette's Hamlet and farm. It was incredible, though a number of things did surprise me. Unfortunately, the parts I looked forward to most (the Queen's chambers and cottage), were closed for renovations, but that just means I'll have to go back. Quel dommage! The journey to Versailles is... Continue Reading →
On Thursday I headed straight for the Eiffel Tower upon waking. Another stop I had not planned, but I was making great time with all my sites and had time for more. It’s such an iconic landmark, it seems bizarre to actually be next to it. As you walk towards it, you can catch glimpses... Continue Reading →
I woke up to an empty apartment. Anais was on her way to NYC, and the apartment was all mine. She had been so excited the night before to go to America. It did make me appreciate my familiarity with it a bit more, but then I felt silly about all my gushing about Paris,... Continue Reading →
Sans Peur 