My first thought when I was invited to travel with Trafalgar Tours throughout France and Italy for a week was: what a trip of a lifetime! I had been to both countries before, however it had been years and I was definitely ready to return. The customized trip that I would embark upon was designed to showcase their innovative and brand new At Leisure and First Class programs amongst the backdrop of two of the most gorgeous countries. Along the journey, I would be sampling the authentic local cuisines and immersing myself in the rich cultures through the exclusive Be My Guest and Hidden Treasures experiences. And if that was not extraordinary enough, I would be joined by twenty-five of the most celebrated journalists from around the world. I told you — trip of a lifetime.
I hesitate to call the trip a tour, as Trafalgar Tours has been working tirelessly to revolutionize their company, so that guests no longer feel as though they are on a traditional tour, rather they feel like they are an “insider.” Considering that I have an aversion for tours, they had the potential to change my view on organized travel.
My European adventure began in Paris, France. I was not meeting the others until later in the evening, thus as soon as I arrived at my lovey hotel, the Marriott Courtyard Paris Neuilly, I dropped off my luggage and headed straight back out the door. Not a single second was to be wasted, since I only had half a day in the beloved capitol.
My first stop was to meet a fellow blogger, Lindsey of Lost in Cheeseland, at a café. She and I had been e-friends for what seems like years and if I only had time for one thing in Paris it was going to be meeting her. As is the case for all enjoyable encounters, our hour together went by way too quickly and I was left wishing that I had more days in Paris to spend with her.
After we bid adieu, I decided that the best way to spend the next couple of hours was to just get lost. I had absolutely no idea what arrondissement I was in and that is exactly how I wanted it to be.
There was only one thing that I was determined to photograph and that was a carrousel. On my previous trip to Paris I had become enchanted with them, as they transported me back in time to an era that I would have loved to have lived in: la Belle Époque. Of course, it was not too long before I wandered into one!
I sat and watched a myriad of joyful children ride round-and-round and after a while realized that dusk was fast approaching and I wanted to watch the sun set over the River Seine, so I sett off again to find it.
While I think Paris is undeniably romantic and indescribably beautiful, it had never captivated my heart like it had for so many others. That is, until I watched the pink sky melt into the river and cast a dazzling glow upon the entire city. It was a magical moment that had me contemplating never leaving the spot that I was in.
But, I did need to leave, as I had a special welcome dinner and evening tour of the city to attend. . .
Trip of a lifetime, indeed! Can’t wait to hear more about it 😀
I can’t wait to share more!!! 🙂
You’re too sweet! It was an honor to meet you! You captured Paris beautifully 🙂
The honor was all mine! Thanks for the sweet words…I wish that I had had more time to photograph, but I felt so rushed and plus I was jetlagged. We’ll meet again soooooon!!!
Ah lucky you 🙂 Your photos make me miss my old home 🙂 In a good way of course.
You lived in Paris? How wonderful! Oh the stories you must have!!!
I LOVE Paris, i’m dying to go back too, definitely looking forward to reading about this trip! I love the photos you took here, the second picture looks like a big pink Barbie house! lol I would totally live there.
I’m dying to go back and I only just returned haha. It’s sad I only got 1/2 a day there and I was so jetlagged, but I will return soon with the hubs. Isn’t that pink building cool?
Oooh this makes me miss Paris so much! I love the photo you took of the carousel, it looks amazing! I once attended a picnic (of cheese and wine) at the edge of the Seine and watched the sunset like you did… it is so supremely beautiful.
Thank you so much, I heart that photo too! 🙂 I would have LOVED to have watched the sunset while having a picnic, alas I had no time. Next time though for sure!!!
Have to say that a teeny, tiny part of me wanted you to have a Katy Perry moment on that carousel a la Vanity Fair. (http://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/features/2011/06/katy-perry-full-201106)
Loved the post! 🙂
Hahaha if I had had a photographer with me I would have done it in a heartbeat! 😉 Glad you loved the post dear!!!
I just love your love for pink buildings 🙂
Hahaha it shows huh? 😉
I know I always say your photos are beautiful, but there’s something really special about these. Maybe it’s because I’ve been there and your perspective makes me want to hop on a plane and go back right now.
Thank you sooo much dear! I’m trying out a new photo editing software and I’m glad you approve!!! <3
I absolutely love Paris and love the sunsets…great photos, dear!
Thanks a million!!!!!!!!!!
Oh you lucky girl!!! It does sound like a trip of a lifetime… so jealous!!! 🙂
Trust me, I enjoyed it for BOTH of us! XO
How funny that my pal Evelyn and my Sydney-based boss’ friends Flip and Bev from Australia were all on that trip! Small world.
Small world indeed and all 3 of those women are amongst the most amazing people in this world!
That sunset is so you! I can’t wait to read more about this trip.
Haha, it is SO me, and of course you would notice that!!! 🙂 I can’t wait to share more, I have lots of beautiful adventures to detail.
Paris is definitely a city that grows on you. I did not care for it that much the first couple of days I spent there, but after I left I thought about the city a lot. Look forward to revisiting.
Well, I know a lot of people that haven’t even been to Paris yet and it’s already their favorite city or that have only been to Paris once and it’s all they can dream about, but I’m happy to hear that there are others out there, like you and me, who need time to fall in love with it! I’m looking forward to revisiting one day as well!!!
love the effect you put on the photos! so pretty!
Thank you, decided to try out something new just for a change! 🙂
I hope they gave you time to shop!
But of course my dear! Hermes all the way!!!
I am so glad you enjoyed your time, the photos are spectacular! I adore Lindsey and have been lucky enough to meet her!
Thank you lovely!!! She’s so fabulous, right? Now WE need to meet!!!
Beautiful, dear Andi. 🙂 I’m so thrilled you get to experience this! You deserve every bit of spoiling and adventure. Can’t wait to read more. 🙂 xo
Awwww you are SUCH a sweetheart, thank you SO much for your sweet words!!! I can’t wait to share more. XO
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Looks like a great time. Loved following along with the instagram photos of Facebook.
It was incredible!!! I’m so touched you followed me along my journey!
Beautiful photos. Wow, this website is really…pink!
Thanks, I think? 😉
This is amazing. I absolutely love it! Great photos!
Awww thank you soooo much!!!!!
love it, vintage fits the tone well.
Thanks dear!
Awww, I love your walk, so peaceful! I want to take a ride on the carrousel someday:-) We should go to France together, then you can show me all the hidden treasures:-) oxox
Oui!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I would LOVE that!
Sometimes wandering around without the pressure of an itinerary is the best way to get to know a city. Beautiful photos, Andi!
I couldn’t agree more!!! Thank you sooo much!
Hey! Great post and photos!!!!
Thank you and thank you!
Stunning photography!
Thank you dearly!!!
Pretty pics Andi!
Thanks Amy!
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Awww thanks!
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been to Paris. I absolutely love that city so much. I love your photos from there. 🙂
Wow that’s an awesome problem to have to lose count!!! Love it! I feel that way about Buenos Aires. Thanks for your kind words re: my pics!
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