This morning was truly special as we had a photoshoot with a talented Parisian photographer named Paula.  We found Paula through the Viator app.  We spent the morning strolling through Paris, sipping champagne, and capturing beautiful memories—talk about feeling like celebrities! The photos turned out perfectly, and Paula’s skill and professionalism made her a five-star photographer in our eyes.

After the photoshoot, we checked into our next hotel, the Pullman Paris Montparnasse. Upon learning about our anniversary, the hotel staff went above and beyond, checking us in early and upgrading our room. The hotel itself was stunning, with a modern and efficient elevator system that ensured no waiting. As we entered our room, we were delighted to find a bottle of champagne on ice, ready to celebrate. The room was simply amazing, with a fabulous view that made our stay even more memorable.  After a champagne-soaked morning without breakfast, our stomachs were craving something quintessentially American. Luckily, the hotel's Umami restaurant delivered a truly satisfying lunch.

Later in the afternoon, we visited the Louvre Museum—a place where words fail to capture the sheer beauty and grandeur. No picture can truly do justice to the magnificence of this iconic museum; it’s something you have to see to believe. The art, the architecture, the atmosphere—it all left us in awe.

Our first evening introduced us to our fellow Gate 1 travelers—a lively group of about thirty people under the expert guidance of our wonderful tour leader, Ana. Over glasses of wine, we shared introductions and discovered a wealth of travel experience among our companions. Some had journeyed with Gate 1 nearly fourteen times! Their enthusiasm for exploration filled us with both envy and inspiration as we envisioned our own future adventures. The group comprised a mix of Americans and Canadians, most of whom were retired and eager to share their worldly wisdom.

Photoshoot

Our photoshoot was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we met Paula, we felt like superstars.  Jamie had reached out to her in advance to arrange a special surprise for Rhiannon, including champagne and flowers, and Paula delivered beautifully. As we walked to our photoshoot locations, we sipped champagne while Paula shared fascinating insights about the sights we passed.

Paula expertly guided us through the charming streets of Paris near the Eiffel Tower, leading us to the most picturesque spots for our photos. Once again, Jamie discovered this gem of a photographer through the Viator app, which has proven to be an invaluable resource on our journey.

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum was a truly awe-inspiring experience, overflowing with grandeur and timeless beauty. From the moment we stepped through its iconic entrance to the final encounter with the Mona Lisa, every aspect of the tour was captivating. The crowd funneled through a narrow passage to catch a glimpse of the famous painting, which, despite its modest size of 30 by 21 inches, sent chills down my spine. Seeing it in person was an unforgettable moment.

It's hard to find the words to fully convey the magnificence of the Louvre or the depth of the experience. This is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Paris. Although it was quite crowded, the visit was absolutely worth the time and effort. While tickets are available at the door, the wait can be long, so we once again turned to the Viator app to book a tour with skip-the-line access, which made our visit smooth and stress-free.

Pullman Paris Montparnasse Hotel

Our stay was exceptional from the moment we stepped into the hotel. The warm welcome set a delightful tone for what was to come. The spacious, impeccably clean rooms provided a comfortable sanctuary after exploring the city. The breakfast buffet was a culinary delight, offering a vast array of options to suit every palate. The friendly staff made each morning a pleasure.

The hotel's prime location, near multiple metro stations and with easy access to all forms of transportation, made exploring Paris effortless. The rooftop bar, boasting stunning views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower, was a highlight. We also appreciated the convenient bag storage service, allowing us to explore freely without luggage.

Beyond the hotel, a plethora of charming cafés and restaurants lined the nearby streets, offering a taste of authentic Parisian life. The hotel itself was clean, comfortable, and conveniently located near the train station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

Lunch At the Hotel UMAMI

Umami Burger is a haven for bold flavors and culinary adventure. Its menu boasts a tantalizing array of gourmet burgers, truffle-infused delights, and shareable snacks, all complemented by classic favorites and plant-based options. The vibrant atmosphere, open kitchen, and inviting decor create a perfect setting for unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Our lunch at Umami was a sensory indulgence. The burger was a masterpiece of flavor, while the fries reached perfection. A refreshing twist on a classic, the lemon-infused Coke was the ideal accompaniment.

Drinks at the Hotel Sky Bar

A collective gasp escaped our lips as we ascended to the Skybar Paris. The city unfolded before us in a breathtaking panorama, a masterpiece painted with twinkling lights. We were captivated by the unobstructed view, a privilege afforded to few. As we savored expertly crafted cocktails and shared delectable Asian fusion bites, conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by exclamations of wonder. It was an evening etched in memory, a testament to the magic of Paris.