As promised, a continuation of what happened over my holiday! During the week that we had off, I was able to experience a wonderful array of food that Paris had to offer. I did not lack in getting my fair share of crepes and, since we are college students, alcohol. Just so we are clear, the alcohol was consumed in a reasonable and responsible way--as was all the food during the trip, so I unfortunately have very few pictures. I also apologize beforehand because in an attempt to not completely look ridiculous while getting the photos I was forced to use a camera lacking in pixels.

With was one of the savory crepes that I had and can't remember what was made of. 

Some local and seasonal cider that was phenomenal and look at the color! This was definitely a good substitute for all of the pumpkin products that are coming out this time of year! 

As mentioned, a good amount of alcohol during meals and all of which were delicious compliments with the meals.  

 

A wonderful salad! The thin slices that are rimming the dish are duck!This was my first time trying the delicacy and I wouldn't mind it again--a definite recommendation if ever given the opportunity.

Between all of this amazing food I was able to make it to the Arch of Triumph. This was my second time at the arch and it was just as amazing this time as it was the first. Just as crowed, but still amazing at the shear size of the structure. What is really cool about the architecture is that that flowers on the ceiling, pictured in a few of the pictures below, are actually coming out of the wall and are 3-D. 

Now, as many people may know, large cities always have something going on and Paris is no exception. While taking a late night stroll through the city, near Notre Dome, our group stumbled upon what might have been a protest. This was nothing as dramatic as getting right in the middle of the action, but it was interesting to see a huge police task force move down a side street. 

There were about five or six of these vehicles that went down this street. These vans didn't include the other police officers, vehicles, and what looked to be SWAT vans move in the same direction. Unfortunately, we never actually found out what was going on. 

Now, I understand that this post has taken me FOREVER to post, but a lot has been going on with school--we have about three medium sized projects going on at the moment. But, I would like to finish my story of travels to Paris to end with the most iconic symbol for France--the Eiffel Tower. We were able to make it to the second story (there are three) and see the amazing city of Paris in all it's nighttime glory. Enjoy!

Holidays! At least that is typically what they are called in Europe...I think. But this last week was amazing! I was about the go to Lille and Paris within the week and enjoy it with wonderful people. What I am really excited to tell you about is my opportunity to make it to the Louvre and the Palace of Versailles--both of which I was able to get in for free. This is my second time that I have been able to make it to Paris and I still feel that I have yet to take everything in. It is an incredible city that is full of history and attractions! We used a very popular form of transportation called BlahBlah Car. This is were everyday people post spots that they have available in there car for other travelers and this is typically the cheapest way to travel possibly throughout Europe--particularly if you are doing it last minute. Because we used this service, we met a range of incredible people and one of which told us about a restaurant called "Breakfast in America".

The fantastic menu! The menu also included (surprisingly) breakfast items that ranged from pancakes to crispy bacon. 

My Cali burger, which is definitely something difficult to find in France. 

During the week we also made it, several times, to the Louvre. This was an amazing place, but sadly did not compare to my imagination of what it would be like curtesy of The De Vinci Code. To the entrance of the museum, there is practically a shopping mall and multiple difference entrances from all corners and above--it was rather overwhelming. 

There were alot of people around the Mona Lisa!

Hanna and I were able to get a couple of good shots around the large group. 

I have come to respect the amount of effort the the French put into the ceilings, it seems significant.  

The underground mote that is located on the lower level of the Louvre. 

To my great pleasure, we also made to the Palace of Versailles! Not far from the center of Paris, it was definitely worth going to. As many know, the palace is incredible and nearly bankrupted the country--but the results phenomenal. 

Look at the size of the fireplace!

One of the typical statues in the palace which is amazing. 

The gardens! They went of forever, unfortunately the fountains were under construction so they were not running. 

Shoutout to Cali in the hall of mirrors! Didn't realize the hat had made it into the photo until afterwards. 

The standard table settings. 

History art buffs may recognize this blurry photo. Marie Antoinette and her children. 

These were just a few of the things that we did during our holiday in Paris. For the sake of not boring anyone reading my posts, I will save some of my adventures for the next one--with more pictures! But, if ever given a chance to come to Paris I recommend everything that I have done. This is my second time to Paris and I have yet to do everything. When you do go, I recommend that you look up the best times to visit the attractions because earlier isn't always better.