Paris, France

My trip to Paris started very early. I was going to the city for the third time. Many people say, "but you have been there, why not go somewhere else". Well it is the city I fell in love with, it is so picturesque, so historical, and so french. My friend was planning to there for her birthday, so it was a great opportunity to see the city again. The bus arrived around 4:00am and after having no sleep at all, I could finally take a nap on the bus. Waking up with the bus road through the outer suburbs of Paris. The driver started pointing out some important buildings and facts about the city. Most of the Parisians were still sleeping or just waking up, explaining why there were no traffic jam. Around 9:30am the bus stopped at the destination along the Seine river, with a view of the Eiffel tower; two beautiful iconic features of Paris. An autumn morning with the view of the river and the tower in the background, an image forever saved in my memory box.

View Eiffel Tower from Seine River, Bus destination point

I was then on my way to the hostel, where I would meet my Brazilian friend, Fran, and get to check in and drop my bags. We had a quick breakfast and head off to the metro to go to the Chateau Versailles. After a long metro ride we could finally walk to the Palace. The gardens are so beautiful. As soon as it started raining we decided to walk through the Palace. The interiors so exquisite, classy, gold, very sophisticated, majestic ceiling decorations and mirrors reflecting the beauty. It is definitely worth a visit!

Palace Versaille from Entrance

Palace Versaille Interiors

It was time to head back to the hostel to have a late lunch, rest and get ready for the rest of the evening. Back to the busy metro, my friend head off to meet and see the city at night, while I went to the Stade de France to watch the international friendly match between France and New Zealand. An awesome atmosphere and to be surrounded by french supporters, chanting "Allez Le Bleus" (meaning Hooray for the Blues, Le Bleus the nickname refering to the colour of the jersey), bands playing typical french music. After the exciting match it was time to go to back to the hostel where I would see Fran again. While waiting for her I met some people staying at the hostel,  which my friend and I ended up spending the rest of the night and early hours with.

France vs New Zealand, 9 November 2013, Stade de France

The sunday was more chilled. We had breakfast, checked out, and after lunch I saw Fran off at North Station. Thereafter, I met with a Parisian, with whom I had coffee and just general conversation.

A great weekend; and now it was time to say my good-byes to my beloved Paris. I got the Thalys hi-speed train back to the Netherlands.

Gare du Nord/North Station , Paris

I recommend Paris to everyone. I plan to see come to Paris again in the future, but the next time also visit the outer suburbs and other cities and towns in France.