Europe Trip

Paris was the final stop on my grand tour, and it was a great way to end it, having got there on the renowned TGV. Certainly lots to see and do in France's capital: all the usual supects, like the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Louvre...

...and I started with the Notre Dame Cathedral, as it was chucking it down the first morning I was there. The wonderful gargoyles and gothic architecture certainly lived up to its reputation. As it turned out, this was one of the few attractions that was actually open.

The Louvre was one of the seemingly many places that was affected by a civil servants' strike that was taking place then. Also closed was the Arc de Triomphe. Fortunately, Paris is interesting enough just to walk around and absorb the atmosphere. All kinds of buildings and houses to admire in its various quarters.

Thankfully, the Eiffel Tower was still open. After quite a scary ride up in the lift (you can only walk up to level 2 - level 3 is the top), you get absolutely incredible views of Paris. In the photo below, you can just about make out the Arc de Triomphe in the centre.

During the second day when I should have been looking around the Louvre, I wandered around the palace of Versailles, which was pretty gob-smacking occasionally. The lush surrounding landscaped gardens are nice for a wander too, so long as the weather's ok (which it wasn't). Also managed to walk past the Moulin Rouge, which has a £50 entry fee! Walked right on past, I'm afraid...

I stayed three nights in Paris, before leaving for home on the channel tunnel on Thursday 25 October, and very happy to do so. It was a great trip, but I was relieved to come home to good ol' Blighty, if only to hear people speaking English again!