Instead of getting breakfast at the hotel like yesterday, we opted to skip and wait until we got to our destination of the morning which was Montmartre. We took a taxi to get there and arrived just before noon to a throng of hot, sweaty tourists milling around the crowded hilly streets. A short tour of the church was all we really needed to get our fix. From here, you can see almost all of Paria which was a neat perspective. It is a beautiful, regal church even if it is EXTREMELY touristy. On another trip I would love to see it at nighttime. I was able to snap an (illegal) picture before we we finished touring the inside.
After touring the church, we were about to go for a climb up to the dome until we realized that, as a group, we were much more in need of espresso and some food rather than a hike. We went into a little
cafe where we were seated and forgotten and quickly left. We wanted out of the touristy trap as soon as the novelty of Montmarte wore off.
Once in a taxi we headed to the Arc de Triomohe. It was also a beautiful structure - and so very intricate.
After admiring the Arc for a minute or two we went walking along the Champs de Elysee and stopped in at some of the high-end shops. While it was fun to see a different side of Paris (shopping) we agreed that it felt a little Americanized for our tastes. I will say, however, that the Sephora is the closest thing to a beauty enthusiast's utopia I could ever dream of.
Still having not eaten anything, we stumbled hungrily upon a little place called Foquette's that was simply amazing. Little did we know, it was the restaurant for a five-star hotel. We enjoyed double espressos, fresh salads, chicken, fish, and delicious rolls, butter, and cheese puffs. We even made friends with our waiter, Dennis, and gave him a card to go to the Inn. He was familiar with SLO and aaid he's been to the mission before.
After lunch we did a little more shopping and made our way back towards the hotel. Although it was only in the high 80s we were so dang hot. Shade was precious and when we saw the cool steps of the Grand Palais we couldn't resist resting for a bit.
After this, we continued walking and stopped off at a little wine shop for a couple bottles. Mom and dad got a nice Chateauneuf de Paup and I found a split of Sancerre.
After this we found a little perfume shop where I bought two different scents - one with a rosey nose and another that's scented with Persian Almonds. I love them and am already bummed I can't get them shipped to the U.S. (I asked).
Just before reaching the hotel, we stopped in at the legendary Ladurée for a macaron. I sort of felt like it was obligatory, however after tasting the amazing passion fruit and white chocolate cookie I realized what all the hype had been about. It was like nothing I had ever tried... I'm talking eyes rolling back in your head good. I fell in love.
After we got back to the room we popped open our bottles and enjoyed a couple glasses while face timing Grandma Phyllis. She was thrilled and it was nice to hear her voice and see her smile.
We went to a tapas dinner spot on the recommendation of our concierge and were not even prepared for the heavenly treats they prepared us. It was definitely our best dinner in Paris. Pinxo will remain a fond memory in my heart and mouth for years to come.
After dinner, we were greeted by the most beautiful full moon rising over the city. I went to sleep with a full, happy tummy and dreams of our next stop - Florenza! Á Bientôt Paris!
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