Michael and I love Paris—in fact, we spent part of our honeymoon in this glorious city of Light and Love. Patrick, our chauffeur/guide from First Limousine, whisked us from Charles De Gaulle Airport to Hotel St. Germain, in the heart of the Rive Gauche. I use the word “whisk” somewhat tongue-in-cheek. For a city that is known for walking, there are so many cars that rush hour is more like rush “day”.
Hotel St. Germain is definitely our kind of place—quiet, intimate (only 28 guest rooms), relaxed and unpretentious. Laurence, the owner and creator of this boutique gem of a residence, has anticipated a guest’s every desire and incorporated it in the hotel’s impeccable design.
How have we spent our time so far? Walking…and walking…and walking! While we’ve visited Paris multiple times, we find ourselves falling in love with the city again and again. We love to wander down the side streets, stop for latte, and window shop. Sprinkle our visit with a few choice dinners, some world famous macarons, bumping into friends from the US, and purposely avoiding the many presidential election rallies being held, and “Voila!” Our hearts belong to Paris!
How can anyone not enjoy a city so picturesque, so historical and whose language is so alluring that even swearing sound romantic?
Tomorrow we’ll experience a ride aboard the TGV high-speed rail as we make our way from Paris to Portofino, Italy! A bientot!
An interesting infographic and commentary from www.HomeAway.com:
Different people take different things when they travel. We’ve all seen the hippie walking through the airport with just a guitar and a journal, or the businessperson who has perfected the science of compacting his clothes into a carry-on. But what does your luggage say about you? That you’re a fun-loving risk-taking kind of traveler? A checklist tourist? Traveling with kids? We examine the spectrum of travelers by what they take along.
The Vagabond *Backpack* You’re adventurous. You make friendships with the locals. Will your one pair of jeans work for all dining locations? Who cares? Your mind is set on the thrill of the unknown!
The “I Mean Business” Man *Carry-On* You’re just as efficient as your perfectly packed bag. Your itinerary is set, and now all you have to do is sit back and relax.
The Every Woman *Suitcase + Carry-On* You like options and being prepared for anything – call it a passion for perfection. If you need to make 10 wardrobe changes, you want to look effortlessly put together. So what if it’s supposed to snow. You need flip-flops, just in case.
The Airport Aristocrat *Suitcase + Garment Bag + Carry-On* You’re sophisticated and debonair. If celebrities can walk around the airport like they own it, you can too. It’s not your fault that your personal belongings require separate cases – that’s why Prada made that collection anyway. Vacations are an opportunity to enjoy yourself in luxury, and you intend to do just that.
The Multitasking Mom *Duffle Bag + Two Suitcases + Carry-On + Stroller* You’re practical. You brought every favorite toy and your arsenal of cartoons on your iPad. You’ve packed for every emergency you could run into, and you’re not fazed by the business travelers glaring at you in the security line.
Find authentic adventures in the April issue of Virtuoso Traveler. From Kenya to the Galápagos you’ll find tempting trips to add to, and scratch off of, your bucket list. And if you’re looking for something more leisurely, how does a luxurious rail adventure or relaxing spa retreat sound? Whichever path you decide to forge, or follow, this summer, your Virtuoso travel advisor is certain to have you covered each step of the way.
Rely on us to orchestrate all of your vacations
from weekend getaways to trips of a lifetime. Barbara S. King
Great Getaways 913-338-2244 800-546-TRIP (8747) Barbara@greatgetaways.travel www.greatgetaways.travel
Open your mind to the endless travel possibilities when you take the VIRTUOSO LIFE® Travel Dreams Survey. It takes only minutes to complete, but leaves you with a lifetime of inspiration. Plus, once you submit the survey you’ll be entered to win a dream vacation of your own.
