Francy Pants

It seems like our weekend in Paris was ages ago, I still can't believe how quickly the time has gone! Before this particular trip, the four of us had been traveling on our own- no tour guides. Just a map, backpack and each other to count on. AIU provides tons of different group activities to join in on, making sure everyone has an opportunity to experience Europe one way or another. We decided to branch out for this one and travel with the group (40+ students to be exact). We have an amazing activities director named Tony. He has the BEST JOB EVER! this was his 16th time guiding the Paris trip. He's full of knowledge, witty comments, fun facts and great traveling advice. Having him in Paris made everything that much more interesting, meaningful and memorable.

My two favorite Tony quotes from the weekend:

"He's about one sandwich short of a picnic"

"If you call past 11 you'll get one tired Tony" (in a funny British accent of course) 

Traveling with a giant group had a few benefits... like the sweet hotel we stayed in! The beds were so comfy I could have spent my time there simply sleeping.

We spent a good amount of time visiting the historical attractions of Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral 

Sainte Chapelle Cathedral 

Louvre Museum 

Venus de Milo

And of course spent some time at the very beautiful ones as well... 

So pretty in person, and BIG! 

The 'love bridge' quite possibly the cutest idea I've ever seen

The entire length of this fence is covered with a collection of locks- locked in place by couples looking to symbolize their ever lasting love by tossing the keys into the river below. Adorable. 

Another delicious find we quickly stumbled upon... 

Macaroons! 

They may look like tiny hamburgers.. but don't be fooled! 

On our last night we explored the 'bohemian' parts of Paris where we visited the very place the can-can originated! Followed by the Moulin Rouge. It was time to put on our dancing shoes! Gwen and I ended up here---

The 1st Jazz bar in Paris

We certainly found a dance floor- it was packed! A little out of our age range but very lively and entertaining. Keeping it on my list of places to visit again someday. 

Wonderful weekend full of exploring, sight seeing and souvenir shopping. Paris quickly made it's way towards the top of my favorites list!