14 hours in Paris

After a 9 hour bus-ferry-bus journey, I arrived in Ole' Paree at about 8am this morning. I decided to walk down to the Eiffel Tower, even though it was a fair distance because I really wanted some fresh air and to stretch my legs after being cramped up all night! I also just really love wandering around new places and soaking up all the new sights. My stroll took me past my first famous Paris monument, The Arc de Triomphe which honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and the Napoleonic Wars. It has the names of all French victories and generals inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. It also sits in the middle of the infamous Place Charles de Gaulle, a gigantic roundabout that is the meeting point of twelve straight avenues. The only rule seems to be 'go right', after that it's every man for himself and apparently there is an accident every 14minutes!

After buying a cream cheese, tomato and avo bagel (amazing!) I continued my stroll down to the Seine where I got my first view of the Eiffel Tower. As one of the most recognisable structure on Earth it is pretty amazing to see it in real life! I ordered an extremely strong coffee, sat down on the grass under the tower, and marvelled at how lucky I am.

I made my way to the Latin Quarter where the New Europe free walking tour begins. I've done them in Edinburgh and Amsterdam as well and have alway been impressed! This time was no different, our guide was really engaging and funny, told great stories and gave great advice. After the three and a half hour tour I sat down for another coffee and an omelette before heading to the Montparnasse Tower to get ariel views of Paris. The day was a bit gloomy, but the view was still spectacular and I enjoyed a glass of wine on the 59th floor to celebrate life, travel and adventuring.

My next and final stop was the Montmarte District, home to the Moulin Rouge, artist community and Paris' Red Light District. I did another walking tour of this area and learned a lot about its history, including the lives of Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet. It was a really beautiful and interesting area and I'd love to go back there one day.

After another glass of red and some more delicious food I headed back to the coach station to return back to London Town!