We always told Olivia that we would take her to Paris when she was 13.  Well, we made it happen.  We also wanted to be sure Olivia had an international experience with us first before she travels to Germany and Italy with Educational Tours next summer – so the timing was perfect to take her to France this summer.  We flew into Paris and out of Nice – we took two weeks (August 13-27) to travel all over France, seeing most of the major highlights.  It was an absolutely fantastic trip – one we will never forget!

Our flight was very long!  We actually flew through Moscow and then on to Paris.  This was the best option at the time – cheaper airfare and not too crazy of a layover.  We flew Aeroflat airlines – we never flew this airline before, so we were not sure what to expect. It was a great experience – all the flights were on time/no delays, economy seats were actually ‘roomy’, food was good, flight attendants were friendly, and most importantly all our luggage arrived with us!  So overall a good experience. 

We arrived at Charles De Gauelle airport on Sunday, August 14th around 4pm.  We met our driver who took us to the flat we rented for 4 days.  It was located on one of two islands in the Seine river, called I’le Saint Louis.   Our little apartment was perfect – so charming and overlooking the tiny streets of the island.  Perfect walking distance to Notre Dame Cathedral and Pont Neuf bridge.

That first night we walked around our area and just got our barring’s before our jammed packed itinerary started the next day.

This was known for the best gelato in Paris and it was right around the corner from our flat!

Our first official meal in Paris.  I think the entire time we ate in France was al fresco style – loved it.  This restaurant overlooked the bridge to I’le Saint Louis and every night there were entertainers on the bridge that drew large crowds.