Christmas in Paris

Christmas in Paris is noticeably different than compared to London. Paris, from the get go, is a beautiful city. Hands down. Christmas was not as pronounced as it was across the channel in London, which was both surprising to say the least. The Champs Elysee was lit up with strings of lights with its famous promenade of trees. Angela noticed that the lights flicked upward much like champagne. We began our quick trip getting hot chocolate from Angelina, took in the view of the Eiffel Tower from the Trocadero plaza, and we explored the fascinating Louis Vuitton flagship store. Luggage, wallets, and more were marked and personalized in a special atrium for people to watch at close-hand. We also strolled through the Christmas market, which had many famous French food dishes, candies, and cheese. I was able to have a crepe and a potato hash dish. Paris will always be special to me. It was so great to see it around the holidays this year and enjoy it with Angela.

London Eye

After Angela and I had a wonderful time savoring tea at The Ritz, we hopped into a taxi in the early evening and headed towards the London Eye. Peaking over the London rooftops we saw its iconic shape scrapping the underside of the clouds. A signature attraction for the city, we had arranged to ride on the huge Ferris wheel with a glass of champagne to cap off our night and our quick trip. Because of the time of year we were lucky to only have two other people in our 'capsule' as we did a one half-hour revolution on the Eye.

As expected, my photos with an iPhone, on a continuously revolving object, did not turn out as well as I would've liked. But you can get a sense of the perspective from the ride. It was a very good idea to conclude our trip together on the Eye. I feel so extremely lucky to have been able to have gone to London, see so many beautiful things, and to have spent time with Angela. 

Traveling to new places (or revisiting) and seeing new things is an integral part of myself. I'm proud of my curiosity. I'm also lucky to have a very supportive husband who understands my appetite to travel and explore such an amazing and beautiful world.

London was a whirlwind, as it was the first time I visited in 2007. I could spend weeks, if not years, there to explore the rich and interesting history of British culture. Perhaps someday I'll be able to explore more of the country houses and estates that are so intriguing, but until then, I'm fortunate to have had the experience I had this past February.

The Ritz Hotel, London

Having high tea at The Ritz Hotel in London was an extraordinary experience. For my Christmas present, Angela graciously gave me the experience of a lifetime in a landmark setting. The original Ritz hotel is in Paris and the one in London was opened a little bit later by founder César Ritz, in the early 20th century. 

Beautiful fresh-cut pink roses were filled in silver urns along the main corridor of the hotel. From the architecture, the decor, and lighting -- it truly felt like I was stepping into a very glitzy time warp that was historic but also timeless. Part of the series finale of Downton Abbey was actually filmed in the main dining room.

I'm glad I was able to take some photos and savor the moment visiting such a beautiful and treasured space. The tea itself was delicious, with lots of small sandwiches, cakes, and an endless supply of Darjeeling. With a glass of champagne on the side. 

It's actually still unbelievable that I was in London in February. Perhaps the trip was too quick? Yet the time I was there I was very glad to have witnessed such a wonderful place and with such good a friend. It'll be a moment I'll remember fondly for a very long time. 

Next week will be my last post about London featuring a turn around the London Eye.

The fanciest coat check ticket I've ever gotten.