Places I've Been

Eiffel Tower

Vintage photo of the Eiffel Tower from a distance.

The Eiffel Tower is, undoubtedly, the most notable landmark in France. An architectural marvel, the iron structure reaches over 1,000 feet tall. A short elevator ride to the top and you can see some of the most astonishing, sweeping views of Paris.

Notre Dame

Photo of Notre Dame from a distance, boredered by trees below a cloudy, gray sky.

Notre Dame is a famous Catholic church in Paris and a stunning example of French Gothic architecture. Almost as famous as the church itself is the fire that burnt it down in 2019. It is currently under the process of being restored, though I had the good fortune of visiting prior to this incident and seeing it in its original glory.

Champs-Élysées

Photo of the Champs-Élysées in Paris during the day.

The Champs-Élysées is among the most famous streets in Paris. It is bordered by luxury boutiques and restaurants and leads straight to the Arc de Triomphe. I have fond memories of walking the Champs-Élysées with my family at night during the holidays and looking through the store windows with my mom, marveling at the designer clothes and jewellry that lied behind them.

Giverny

Photo of a bridge over a pond at Monet's Gardens in Giverny.

Giverny is a village in northern France. Famous painter, Claude Monet, lived in Giverny from 1833 to 1926. Upon my first visit to France, I visited Monet's home and gardens, a beautiful location which served as inspiration for many of his famous paintings. The gardens are maintained to this day, and are among some of the most famous gardens in all of France.

The Palace of Versailles

Photo of the exterior of the Palace of Versailles
Photo of the gardens at Versailles
Photo of the golden gates at Versailles afront a blue sky.

The Palace of Versailles was once home to the royal family and central government in France. However, it is now maintained as a national landmark and is a common destination for tourists. The property spans over 87 million square feet and boasts lavish displays of gold decor. The palace is also surrounded by vast, beautiful gardens.