On Christmas Day, my husband and I embarked on a magical journey, taking an Air France Business Class flight to the heart of France. Nestling into our spacious seats, we were abuzz with anticipation for the enchanting cities that lay ahead: Paris, Strasbourg, Colmar, and Lyon. From iconic landmarks and enchanting Christmas markets to luxurious hotels and gourmet dining, this trip was the ultimate blend of relaxation, indulgence, and adventure.
Paris, the City of Lights – An Unforgettable Beginning
Our journey began in the heart of the City of Lights, Paris. We arrived on a crisp morning, the city aglow with the enchantment of the holiday season. Our stay was at Le Bristol, a chic boutique hotel tucked away on the right bank, just a stone's throw away from the illustrious Champs-Elysées.
Our first day was a mélange of rest and exploration. As we delved into the offerings of Le Bristol, we discovered an oasis in the city's heart - a luxurious swimming pool designed like a yacht, with an awe-inspiring view of the Eiffel Tower. Our evening was spent traversing the elegant halls of Galeries Lafayette on the Champs-Elysées, where we indulged in some retail therapy.
The second day began with a sumptuous breakfast at Epicure, the hotel's opulent Michelin 3-star restaurant. The delectable pastries and warm coffee were the perfect fuel for our journey to the magnificent Palace of Versailles. The grandeur of the palace, with its intricate designs and sprawling gardens, took our breath away. As the sun set, we returned to our hotel for a soothing bath, reminiscing about the palace's splendor.
The following days were a whirlwind of exploration and delight. We visited the Arc de Triomphe, its colossal structure a testament to the city's rich history. Evenings were spent at the vibrant Christmas market at Tuileries Garden, basking in the festive spirit that seemed to envelop the city.
Our last day in Paris, before heading to Alsace, was dedicated to shopping. We dived into the bustling crowds of Galerie Lafayette Haussmann, the energy of the city palpable around us. Although the line to the rooftop was daunting, the promise of the panoramic view of Paris kept our spirits high. After another busy day of shopping, we bid a temporary au revoir to Paris, as we journeyed to our next destination: Strasbourg.
Alsace: The Heart of Christmas - A Storybook Experience
Leaving behind the charm of Paris, we journeyed to Alsace, an enchanting region known for its Christmas traditions, its fairy-tale towns, and its delightful Alsatian cuisine. Our journey began in Strasbourg, the self-proclaimed 'Capital of Christmas', which lived up to every bit of its title.
Upon our arrival, we checked into the Hotel Arok, a quaint and stylish hotel conveniently located near the railway station. Our first evening was spent at Les Chefs d’Oeuvre d'Alsace, where we savored traditional Alsatian fare. This was followed by a leisurely stroll around the city, mesmerized by the twinkling Christmas lights and the towering Christmas tree at Place Kleber that touched the night sky.
New Year's Eve was a day filled with exploration and revelry. We ambled through La Petite France, awestruck by its picturesque canals and half-timbered houses. A visit to a friend's room at Pavillon Regent Petite France offered an exceptional view of this charming district. Our day was filled with wonderful gastronomic discoveries, from a lunch at La Vieille Tour to an unexpected find of a Chinese Lamian bar that served us a delicious New Year's Eve dinner. As midnight approached, we joined the jubilant crowd at Place Kleber for the countdown, ringing in the New Year amidst joyous cheers of "Bonne Année!"
Our New Year's Day began with the serene beauty of Strasbourg in the morning light. The magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral and the charming Teddy Bear decorated house provided the perfect backdrop for our photos. Later in the day, we indulged in a private spa session at Le Bouclier d'Or, rejuvenating our senses for the adventures ahead.
Our Alsace journey continued in the enchanting town of Colmar. As we strolled through its cobblestone streets, we felt as if we had stepped into a storybook. The highlight of our stay was Le Petite Venise, a neighborhood that exuded charm at every corner. Our stay was made even more luxurious with a check-in at L'Esquisse Hotel, complete with an exquisite spa offering a range of amenities, and the hotel's Michelin 2-star restaurant, Jean Yves Schillinger. The chef's artistry and the surprise dessert cart left us amazed, compelling us to book another meal the very next day.
As we left Alsace, we carried with us the memories of its picturesque towns, the warmth of its Christmas traditions, and the taste of its delightful cuisine. The heart of Christmas, indeed, beats strongly in Alsace, leaving a touch of magic and warmth in the hearts of those who visit.
Lyon: The Gastronomic Capital - A Culinary Voyage
Having soaked in the Christmas cheer of Alsace, we set off on our journey to Lyon, a city that wears the crown of France's gastronomic capital with pride. As we arrived in Lyon, we were welcomed by the charm of Hotel Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts, nestled in the heart of the city. Our first meal was a delightful introduction to the city's rich culinary traditions at Monsieur P, where we savored exquisite dishes crafted with passion and flair.
The following day was a blend of history, culture, and of course, food. We began with a tram ride to Vieux Lyon, where we marveled at the grandeur of La Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere and the ancient Roman Theatre. The panoramic view of Lyon from this vantage point was truly awe-inspiring. As evening fell, we found ourselves in Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest public squares, and took a whirl on the Ferris wheel, with the city's lights twinkling below us. Our day ended with a seafood feast at La Poissonnerie, the oysters being an absolute delight!
Our culinary voyage continued with a lunch at Restaurant Le Musée, followed by an exploration of the city’s charming streets. The evening brought us to Le Bistrot Abel, a perfect place to experience the heartiness of Lyon's traditional cuisine.
The time came for us to bid adieu to Lyon, but not before making one last visit to Le Dome for a memorable tea time. Lyon had indeed lived up to its reputation as a gastronomic capital, with each meal being a celebration of flavors and each dish a testament to the city's culinary heritage.
As we embarked on the train back to Paris, we couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Our hearts were full, and our palates were satiated. Lyon had shared with us not just its food, but also its love for gastronomy, and for that, we were truly grateful.
Paris: Revisited - A Surreal Encore
Our journey brought us full circle back to where we began - Paris, the city that never fails to enchant. Our second stay in Paris was even more magical, thanks to Le Narcisse Blanc Hotel, located on the left bank. We were treated to an unexpected upgrade - a top-floor room with a majestic view of the Eiffel Tower. As we unpacked, we were eager to explore the hotel's impressive amenities, including its swimming pool, spa, afternoon tea service, fitness class, and in-room dining.
A culinary adventure awaited us at Ritz Escoffier, where we indulged in a delightful cooking class. We enjoyed the process of creating our own gourmet dishes, which we later savored in the comfort of our hotel room. Our hearts were full, not just from the delicious food but also from the joy of sharing this unique experience.
The next day marked an unforgettable milestone in our journey - a visit to the iconic Louvre. The guided tour was a masterstroke, allowing us to navigate the vast collection with ease. The Mona Lisa, in all her enigmatic charm, was truly a sight to behold. Later in the day, we took a peaceful stroll along the Seine, making our way to the magnificent Notre-Dame de Paris. The evening was spent unwinding with a soothing swim at the hotel.
Our Parisian adventure continued with a visit to the charming neighborhood of Montmartre. From the colorful Moulin Rouge to the Wall of Love and the majestic Sacre-Coeur, each place held its own unique allure. We also visited the grand Palais Garnier, a testament to Paris's enduring love for the arts. Amidst all the sightseeing, we couldn't resist some retail therapy at Le Bon Marche, where we indulged in a little bit of luxury.
But Paris saved the best for the last. On a day blessed with perfect weather, we dedicated our time to the marvel that is the Eiffel Tower. From various picture-perfect spots, we admired the iron lady, culminating in a lunch at Le Jules Verne, located on the tower's second floor. The meal was unforgettable, but the privilege of skipping the line and using the restaurant's lift to access the observation deck was the cherry on top. As we stood there, taking in the breathtaking view, we knew that these were moments we'd cherish forever.
On our final day, we bid adieu to Paris, carrying with us countless memories, experiences, and a newfound love for this captivating city. Paris, with its captivating charm and vibrant energy, offered us an exquisite start and end to our French adventure. Each day was a new chapter in our journey, filled with enchanting sights, delightful cuisine, and unforgettable moments. From the opulent halls of Le Bristol to the artistic wonders of the Louvre, every experience was a testament to the city's irresistible allure. As we basked in the city's glow, we knew one thing for sure – Paris had captured our hearts, and we were eager to return.
Farewell… For Now
As our journey drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we had, the unforgettable sights we saw, and the wonderful people we met. Our whirlwind tour of France, from the dazzling streets of Paris to the enchanting corners of Alsace and the mouthwatering delights of Lyon, was more than just a holiday. It was a journey of discovery, of falling in love with a culture so rich and vibrant, and of creating memories that would last us a lifetime.
Traveling together, my husband and I found a new appreciation for each other and the world around us. We learned, we laughed, we lived - every moment was a cherished memory in the making. And as we packed our bags one last time, we knew we were not just bringing back souvenirs, but pieces of France that had found a way into our hearts.
So, here's to the trips that change us, the destinations that inspire us, and the people we share them with. Here's to the joy of travel, the thrill of exploration, and the magic of discovering new places. Until our next adventure, au revoir, France. You were simply magnifique!