Paris Was Everything—And a Croissant!
Just two days ago, I returned from my first-ever trip to Paris, France, and let me tell you—it was ALL THAT and a croissant! After years without traveling, Paris proved to be the perfect destination to reignite my passion for adventure.
I stayed in a cozy villa in Baily-Romainvilliers, a charming commune about 30-40 minutes outside of Paris. The location was ideal: modern, peaceful, and conveniently close to Disneyland Paris, Val d’Europe, and La Vallée Village. It struck the perfect balance between vibrant sightseeing and a more laid-back local experience.
Traveling in Style
After such a long travel hiatus, I decided to indulge in a first-class experience for my eight-hour flight. Delta’s Delta One seating delivered on every level. The 180-degree reclining seat allowed me to enjoy a full, restful sleep and arrive in France refreshed, adjusted to the local time, and ready to explore.
Bonjour, Paris!
My first purchase in France? A croissant, of course! That first buttery, flaky bite set the tone for my entire trip. From then on, my mornings were dedicated to indulging in this quintessential French pastry, and honestly, I regret nothing.
Naturally, my first stop was the iconic Eiffel Tower. For about $70, I booked a guided tour with “skip-the-line” access and lift service to the summit. Worth every penny. The views from the second floor and the very top were absolutely breathtaking. If you’re afraid of heights, I’d recommend stopping at the second floor or admiring the Eiffel Tower from the ground—it’s just as stunning. Side streets, rooftop views, and parks across the city offer picture-perfect angles.
A Little Disney Magic
I couldn’t resist visiting Disneyland Paris, especially being so close. It’s smaller than Disney World in Florida, with fewer attractions, but it still has that magical Disney charm. From strolling through Disney Village (a French counterpart to Orlando’s Disney Springs) to exploring both Disneyland Park and Disney Studios Park, the experience was delightful. Hearing beloved characters like Buzz Lightyear and the Tower of Terror’s eerie ghost girl speak French added a unique touch to the magic.
Retail Therapy in the Fashion Capital
No trip to Paris is complete without a little splurging, especially in the fashion capital of the world. I took the RER train into Paris to visit Galeries Lafayette, and it was a dream. The stunning design, the luxurious ambiance, and the endless high-end brands made it an unforgettable experience. Even the air in the building felt luxe!
For a more relaxed shopping day, I visited La Vallée Village and Val d’Europe. These destinations offered incredible selections with a quieter, more leisurely vibe, making them the perfect complement to the bustling energy of Galeries Lafayette.
Paris, Je T’aime
Paris exceeded all my expectations. The pastries, the history, the architecture—it was extraordinary. From savoring a croissant to marveling at centuries-old landmarks and finding joy in the smallest cultural nuances, it was everything I hoped for and more. I’m already planning my return, this time with a bit more French under my belt.
Until next time, au revoir!