Europe Trip (Paris)

2nd April 2011

We walked from Saint-Mandé Metro station to our hotel nearby. It was called Le Ruisseau.



My first hotel in Europe and Paris.

After checking in, we headed towards the long awaited destination in Paris, that is Eiffel Tower! When I was on the train, I saw a glimpse of it from afar and it had already stolen my heart then. It was amazing and I felt unbelievable to see it. We took the metro to the Bir-Hakeim station. We bought one day passes for the metro at €6 (RM26.76) each. Those who are aged from 1 to 26 have a 50% discount on the tickets. To check out more, you can visit this website [click]. After dropping at the station, we walked towards the tower, following the crowd.



The station where we got down.

A little fact about Eiffel Tower that I found online. This tower was actually built as the entrance arch to the 1889 World's Fair marking the 100th anniversary celebration of the French Revolution. I don't really get why Eiffel Tower is an icon of romance though. However, I could see couples enjoying the views. There were also many who were in groups. We walked around Champ de Mars, which is like a park for the public. Eiffel Tower is located at the end of the park.




At Champ de Mars and the foot of Eiffel Tower can be seen from this picture.



We walked to the Siene River nearby and just breathed in the scenery. It has a pleasant view, with boats cruising along the river. After that, we just toured around the place as the sun set. We reached a higher place where the Eiffel Tower can be viewed from afar. After googling, only did I know that it is called Palais de Chaillot. Anyway, in truth, wherever you go and end up in, you will see beautiful things because everywhere is just that beautiful!



Sienne River taken on Pont d'lena (Jena Bridge). 



Palais de Chaillot across the river.

We proceeded towards the Arc de Triomphe which is located at the western side of the Champs-Elysees. A little bit about this arc. It was built to honour those who fought and died for France in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. You can see the names of French victories and generals inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Even beneath its vault, there lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. Amazing.



Arc de Triomphe.

It was already dusk when I reached there. So, we had dinner and walked along Champs-Elysées, which is actually one of the world's most famous streets. Lined along the street are branded shops, restaurants, cafes etc. It is also a street busy with cars.

Next post: Europe Trip (Paris #2)