"Château” of Versailles
Rick Steve's Best of Paris in 7 Days Tour, opened me to the historical aspects of Paris. These daily adventure allowed me to immerse into the past and culture and further my curiosity of learning. While walking during these daily interactions, the Parians went about life as normal. Some speaking, and other held captivated in conversations with their friends. I felt a part of the city, as I began wondering and looking at the surroundings. This tour was both enlightening and fascinating. I even wondered into a leather boutique "Bobbie", where I was able to speak with the young lady about my time in Paris. I soon found that her mother and I shared the same birth date and year. Over 2,000 miles a way and I meet a young lady who mom and I shared something in common. I was surrounded by history, and like they say,
"To dance in the streets of Paris is to embark on a journey through time, where past and present intertwine. It’s immersing oneself in its rich history and culture. Every corner reveals remnants of the past and yet, amidst this historical tapestry, the present thrives with a vibrant energy making the experience truly enchanting and unforgettable." ~ Charlotte sy Dimby
The Opulence of King of France in the 16th and 17th Century.
When the king commissioned the "Chateau" to be built, he was building a hunting lodge, which became the residence of both Louis XIII and Louis XIV. Our guide "Elisabeth" was extraordinary. Her knowledge of the Kings of France surpassed my expectations (she is also quite knowledgeable with the painting in the Louvre as well). She spoke of the grandeur of each of the rooms with so much eloquence at the Château” of Versailles. She gave vivid descriptions of the use and every room, which took us back in time to visualize the atmosphere of the court. There was so much to take in, and all I could do was look around to a world so distant, but recognizable, if one read books from the times. Thinking back to the time in college when I read "Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dicken, you were immersed in the Revolution taking place at that time, and to know the "Chateau" sat empty until 1789-1803 but not brought back to it's opulance until 1830. And now, you are able to see the more delicates sides of the French culture. Truly a gem in having a tour guide so versed in the history of France and was able to make me feel at home in a place, where I would otherwise feel distant. Elisabeth was wonderful in educating our tour group with France's King and their stories in the French history.
Stroll
through Neighborhood
and
Dinner at Chez Pasco
La Bon Marche'
and
Le Grande Épicerie.
Day 3 in the books.
What an extraordnary day we had in Versaille and Paris mingling with the locals from the 30 minute ride via RER to Versaille and back to the Metro Sèvres Babylone station, line 10. We arrived a short walk to La Bon Marche' and Le Grande Épicerie. We had to do a couple of connector rides on the Metro, but this time, it was all above ground to see the streets of Paris from the Metro. I have to say, Rick Steves' took out all the stops in helping me to immerse in Paris on the afternoon excursions. We were able to meet again for dinner with the group and exchange adventures of our day in Paris. Some where able to visit the Catacomb's, the Pantheon, and others various other places in Paris. This was one of my unforgettable experiences and I would recommend the Best of Paris in 7 Days to all of my friends.