|30-OCT-2015|  Of all the places we’ve talked about going, Paris has been the most polarizing in terms of people’s opinion of its rank as one of the “must see” destinations in the world.  We have friends who love it; we have friends who say “skip it” (including some native Frenchmen!).

So, let’s go see what all the fuss is about, shall we?

Landed in Paris at noon today and had feet on the ground in the city by 2pm.  Feeling a slight “second wind” after the travel from Seattle, we headed out for some sightseeing. Our hotel is conveniently situated between the Arc de Triumphe and the Eiffel Tower so both were on our list for this afternoon – go big, or go home, right?

The Arc de Triumphe is huge. HUGE. And sits in the center of what now is about a 6-lane roundabout – except there are no real lanes designated, and the French drivers make it into about ten. The pedestrian underpass makes it possible to safely arrive at the structure. Along with hundreds of your friends.

The Eiffel Tower on a sunny afternoon. This viewpoint from the steps across the river was packed with people taking pictures. Might I add, the selfie-stick is alive and well in Paris. And in case you forgot to pack yours, you can buy one from numerous vendors for 2 euro. We ventured across the river and wandered around the base of the structure – it is beautiful.

We enjoyed a very Parisian (and very Holly & Jeff) dinner of a baguette with assorted cheeses, meats, and olives.

And, of course, some red wine.

Pleepleus went straight to the wine.