Touring Paris — CAPTURING LIFE'S MOMENTS

Before talking about my latest post, I wanted to show you all a glimpse of my hotel. This is the glass atrium next to the lobby taken from the downstairs corridor near the breakfast room. My hotel was modern and contemporary, but still had Parisian charm with wooden beams and a cavelike breakfast area which I enjoyed. The breakfast was complimentary, which is very hard to come by in Paris especially during high season, and that's from June all the way to September. I went in July so you can probably imagine how it is. They served a wonderful continental breakfast which consist of small pastries, crossaints, coffee, and even some American specialties which included scrambled eggs and toast. They also had cereals, yogurt, orange and apple juice, and even fresh cheese and deli options. It had everything you need. As you can tell, European breakfasts are far different that what we're used to back in the States. Anyway, today's post is about the tour I had exploring the city by foot and by bus.

These are a few more pics I took after breakfast before starting the day.

In my opinion, the best way to see the city if you're a first time visitor is by a hop-on and hop-off bus tour. L'Open Tour was the one I used and I definitely recommend this company since I enjoyed their fast service and it was easy to get around. Hop On & Off means that you go on the bus from one stop and then go off when you have reached your designated destination. L'Open Tour passes to all the major sights depending on which line you're on. We were on the green line which took you to the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Square, and etc. Each line goes to a different part of Paris so choose wisely on which one fits your itinerary.

This was taken on the top level of the bus on the famous Champs Elysees shopping boulevard (the most famous in Paris) approaching the Arc de Triomphe (center of picture). You can choose to sit on top and admire the views outside or if you can go in winter, the inside would be more comfortable. You get a more expansive panoramic view of you go on top. Perfect for pictures!

A definite must on your Paris itinerary if you're looking for great views. Ride the elevator to the top for an incredible view of Paris from all angles.

Here is where you can find one of the famous spots to take to a picture of the Eiffel Tower. I've seen this kind of picture before in the past since many photographers love this location for its unobtructive views.

No matter where you are in Paris, you can always catch a glimpse of this wonderful landmark!

Quite a busy area near the Madeleine, another must see area if you love shopping!

The Palais Royal is a famous building known for hosting lavish events and photoshoot locations. The architecture alone just draws you, with white stone columns and beautiful Parisian detail. It's located in the 1st Arr near the Louvre.